November fishing on the Madison below Hebgen Lake offers migrating browns, cool weather, and variable conditions. Water is 641 cfs at 48.4°F, with cold mornings and possible snow. Dress in layers, check roads, and fish streamers or soft hackles. Use midges, midday BWOs, or late-afternoon caddis during their peak activity windows.

Conditions on the Stillwater near Absarokee are optimal for early November, with low, clear water and good wading access. The best nymphing occurs from 7-11 AM, using small Baetis and midge patterns. As rain approaches midday, switch to dry flies and later to streamers for aggressive browns. Adapt strategies as conditions change.

Rock Creek's flow is 250 cfs at 46°F, with clear conditions and light snow. Trout are inactive, requiring anglers to fish deep in pools using small, weighted flies. Key strategies include nymphing slowly and targeting sheltered areas. Expect a quiet day focused on precision rather than volume, with clear water necessitating fine tippet.

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The Bighorn River is currently optimal for fishing, with clear water at 1,850 CFS and thriving trout populations. Morning fishing is fruitful with nymphs, but peak dry-fly action occurs from 1 to 5 PM with #16–20 black and tan caddis. Afternoon temperatures may reach 81°F, inviting more fishing opportunities.

In late summer, Stillwater offers clear conditions optimal for trout fishing with flows at 382 CFS and temperatures at 61.5°F. Early mornings favor caddis and midges, while afternoons shift to terrestrials like hoppers and ants. As temperatures rise, switch to heavier nymphs, and look for BWOs in the evening for optimal catches.

As of August 6, 2026, the Bighorn River is in excellent condition with clear water at 1,500 CFS. Effective fishing techniques include using small midges in the morning and focusing on BWOs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Subtle approaches with 5X or 6X leaders are recommended, particularly in shaded areas and during evening hours.

The Bighorn River in Montana is experiencing optimal tailwater conditions with steady flows of 1,000–1,500 cfs and clear water below Yellowtail Dam. Ideal fishing times and insect patterns are crucial: early mornings feature Tricos and midges, while afternoons highlight PMDs and Black Caddis, followed by hoppers and olives in the evening.

This week, fish the Stillwater River near Absarokee early for the best results. Key times include 6-9 AM for midge and caddis hatches, 9 AM-noon for terrestrial flies, followed by a midday break. Evening fishing resumes at dusk with hoppers and BWO hatches. Use various flies for success, but avoid the heat.