Wyoming Bighorn River (Thermopolis Wyoming)
Wedding of the Water downstream
Date and Time: August 5th,, 2024
Weather Conditions: Weather Forecast
The weather the next few weeks looks to cool off a little bit. We’re expecting some thunderstorms and rain. If the weather cools down, the fishing should improve. The water temperatures have been high, so we’re waiting for the air temperatures to cool off before the water temperatures decrease. As soon as the water temperatures start to decrease, you’ll see an increase in fish activity and bug life. That’s what we’re looking for to signal when fish will start eating better.
Water Conditions: Current Flows (1271.2 CFS as of August 5th, 2024)
Hatches and Insects:
There has been a very small trico hatch in the morning, but it’s not creating any notable rise. There are a significant number of hoppers and small terrestrials on the banks, though it’s been relatively difficult to get the fish to rise for a hopper pattern. To catch fish on hoppers, you need to stick with it all day. Most of the action has been on crawdads, which are molting and changing colors, so conditions change daily. We’re also seeing some annelids activity, leading to fish eating worms, leeches, and similar prey. Underwater bugs include sow bugs, caddis, and PMDs, which make up the main bug hatch.
Fish Activity:
The fish activity has been relatively low and is concentrated during certain parts of the day, largely depending on water conditions and temperature. Fish are most active from mid-morning to early afternoon before the water temperature rises too much. Early mornings haven’t been very productive, but if you don’t start early, you’ll end up fishing during the high water temperature times, which can be dangerous for the fish.
Flies:
Dries: Tan Sweetgrass (10), Tan Chubby 6-8, Tan Crazy Leg 10-12, Morish Hopper 10-12, Royal Chubby 6-8, Amy’s Ant 8-10
Nymphs: Black Crystal RS2, Gold Rib Hare’s Ear, Guides Choice Hares Ear, Gray Soft Hackle Sow, Tungsten Surveyor, Walt’s worm
Streamer: Yuk Bug, Zirdle, Slump Buster, Rusty Trombone
Catches and Success Rates:
An angler’s success rate depends on their skill level and their ability to cast 20 to 30 yards of line accurately, targeting specific spots and getting their flies in the zone. Nymphing the river is challenging right now due to the moss or grass on the bottom, making targeted casting crucial. Cleaning the line of floating grass is also important. The catch rate largely depends on the fisherman’s abilities.
Local Regulations and Updates: 2024 Fishing Regulations
General Fishing Tips:
Be prepared for the heat by bringing plenty of water and sunscreen. Make sure to hydrate before heading out, and consider planning your activities for early mornings.
Crowd and Access Information:
Weekdays are less busy currently; although, you will still encounter a lot of people floating in kayaks and tubes in the afternoons. Mornings or evenings can be the best way to avoid the tubers but you will probably encounter more fishermen during those times. Weekends have been busy so plan accordingly and don’t get in a hurry.
Future Predictions:
Currently, there’s a lot of grass growing from the bottom, and the fish are hiding in that moss. This makes it challenging to fish around it, as you often pick up moss on your flies. There’s also some floating moss that occasionally gets in the way, so you have to be willing to cast around it. My prediction is that the moss will dissipate as it gets colder in the coming months. You’ll see the moss slow down in growth and break off, causing significant floating moss for probably another month. As temperatures approach freezing, this will improve, and fishing should improve as well.
