We are experienced Montana fly fishing guides and can offer World Class caliber Montana ⦠The river drops over 1000 feet in elevation over the 60-mile stretch, creating as wide a variety of trout habitat as one can imagine. CrossCurrents Fly Shop and Outfitters has been providing professional fly fishing guided trips in Montana since 1994. When I first fished with Blackfoot River Outfitters some years ago, I had never even held a fly rod. The next public access site is five days away at the Eden Bridge take-out. Hot coffee is ready when you are in the morning. Strict permit restrictions require private boaters to enter a lottery system months in advance to get a launch date and commercial outfitters are few. Campfires, custom camping and camraderie, the view of the Milky Way on a summer's evening - it all adds up to an unforgettable experience. Unlike the other famous Montana trout streams mirrored by major thoroughfares, the Smith River ⦠Other experience includes seasons as a river ranger on the Blackfoot and Smith Rivers ⦠It is almost criminal to spend eight hours a day watching your fly bounce through riffles and twist past rocks while such a spectacular wilderness flows past – almost. The Smith River is one of the most sought after river permits in the state of Montana. Getting people outdoors is our mission, our goal, and our passion. This unique inaccessibility allows Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks to greatly regulate the use of the river. Surrounded by national forest and private land, guests come here to relive the solitude and romance of the Old West while enjoying a slow pace and unstructured environment. *Smith River trips are conducted under a limited special use permit issued by the Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest This institution is an equal opportunity employer. When you plan a trip with Orvis endorsed Blackfoot River Outfitters, you experience unique environments and see fly fishing through the eyes of expert local guides who understand the trip is about you not them. About the time you stop for a relaxed and hearty riverside lunch, our gear crew (having rowed ahead all morning with the entire camp piled high on their boats) should be arriving at that night’s campsite. From Eden Bridge we shuttle you back to your departure city in time for a late flight, or to the hotel for the night in order to make your airport connection the next morning. The Smith is a Class I-2 river that is more popular as a fishing trip than a whitewater trip. BIGHORN RIVER GUIDED TRIPS FLY FISHING ON THE BIG HORN RIVER WITH OUR EXPERIENCED GUIDES. Boats. Our Smith River Adventures begin by meeting clients in Missoula or Helena a day ahead of trip departure. Heaven on Earth Ranch and Deep Creek OUtfitters.The ranch offers private, modern cabins and authentic rustic tepees just one hour southwest of Great Falls. However, a sighting of a Black Bear in its blond color phase may have you second guessing. Blackfoot River Outfitters is proud to be an Orvis. Our guests float-fish two anglers per raft or driftboat with personable, passionate guides who know the river well. Since 1977 Montana River Outfitters prides itself in offering only the finest river trips available. Grizzly bears are rumored to roam the nearby mountain ranges, but have never been seen in the river corridor. Accepting Deposits NOW! Listen and watch ⦠The Bighorn offers âFishing at itâs Finestâ Scroll Down. Please look them up to see all their spectacular work. The Smith River is without a doubt a very special place, and one of the handful of rivers in the United States that requires a permit to float. Unlike the other famous Montana trout streams mirrored by major thoroughfares, the Smith River flows for over 50 miles without a single paralleling or bisecting highway. If you are interested in booking a trip on the beautiful Smith River, please call us at (406) 542-7411 or send us a message. If you aren’t hooked when you get here you will be when you leave. When you book a guided trip with us or have a question about fly fishing in Montana, a lifetime of experience is pressed into action. The river then twists and turns for more than 100 miles through remote and scenic landscapes before spilling into the Missouri River near Ulm, Montana.The upper section of the Smith River, between its origin and above the Smith River Fishing Access Site, flows through gently rolling prairi⦠The last day of the journey leaves the canyon behind and gives way to the beautiful central Montana prairie. When anglers arrive in camp, spacious double occupancy tents are already pitched, and their choice of beverage awaits them before dinner. There is no doubt why anyone who has been fortunate enough to spend time here, comes back any chance they can. Along the journey, the few big ranches and summer cabins are quickly forgotten as the remote wilderness surroundings prevail. And when you feel the need for gear, let us know, we also have a full service fly shop. Smith River Flyfishing guides float trips on central Montanaâs Smith River â this unforgettable 60-mile river journey is awesome fishing, sublime scenery and comfortable accommodations with excellent food, expert guides and a classic Montana ⦠© 2021 Blackfoot River Outfitters. Floating Montana: 5 Favorite River ⦠Special thanks to some of the best photographers in the industry that have joined us on the Smith River and captured our experiences. Nesting waterfowl patrol the banks of the river as migratory songbirds search the bushes and the sky for an unsuspecting stonefly. We provide fresh produce, lean meat, paired wines, and have as much fun with the menu as is practical on the river. It is here, through Montanaâs ⦠And the acclaim is well deserved. Insects here are as diverse as the river itself. All rights reserved. We also provide canoe, kayak or tube ⦠Our expert Guides will provide a fun and memorable experience for new and experienced anglers. The Smith River begins near White Sulphur Springs, Montana, at the confluence of the North and South Fork Smith River. So desired is this trip that the Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks received nearly 8,100 applications for private permits last year. While you’re back in the boat hooking rainbows out of foamy back eddies and battling cliff-hugging browns, the camp crew is busy erecting tents, setting up tables, assembling stoves, snapping cots together, chopping wood and prepping dinner. What’s not included: Montana fishing license, waders (we can arrange rentals), transportation to and from Missoula, and gratuities. Join us in Turneffe Flats, Belize, in early 2022. Even private floaters must obtain permits via an annual random drawing for launch dates. We’ll have breakfast prepared around 8:30 in order to breakdown camp and get on the water for another full day. 1-406-761-1677 923 10th Ave N., Great Falls, MT Montana@montana.com LATEST NEWS. Our staff works hard so you don’t have to. Being one of the veteran Montana fly fishing guides in the area, the next Montana Smith River Trip is always as exciting as the last Mid May to June 1 is when the mysterious Salmon Fly Hatch happens. Our close-knit group of expert guides are passionate about helping anglers in their pursuit of great trout. The Smith River Canyon is the only waterway in Montana where all recreational floating is limited by a state legislated permit system. And it's been that way for over 25 years! With strict regualations preserving this one of a kind region. I had the opportunity to guide the Smith River about a week with a couple of my long-time clients. The Smith is a natural freestone river where wild Rainbow and Brown trout thrive, eating everything from tiny mayflies to monster stone flies. Montana Flyfishing Connection, LLC is a professional guide service formed around the angler â guide relationship. Our home rivers are the Missouri, Blackfoot, Smith⦠The total number of trips launching on any given day may not exceed nine—eight of which are private and one commercial. Smith River Float Trips are our Specialty! So is the program for four nights and five days. Smith River Montana's Smith River is one of the West's legendary fly fishing trips. While we put the finishing touches on dinner you may choose to do a bit of wade fishing around camp, take a short hike or stretch your feet out and listen to the quiet. Smith River Montana: Flows, Shuttles, Fishing and Floating Guide. Other than a smattering of summer homes and dude ranches, the Smith River Canyon is all yours, for five days, without wailing sirens or the drone of motor cars. They set me up with all the gear and had me into fish in no time. CrossCurrents Fly Shop has been offering expert fly fishing Guide Service on Smith River Montana since 1994. This is vintage Montana – not five star cuisine and accommodation – and only adds to the flavor of the trip. You float, fish, relax and eat while we load, row, set up camp, cook and clean. Even private floaters must obtain permits via an ⦠Upon rolling into camp that evening, expect to be greeted with a warm water wash, an hors d’oeuvre / cocktail table and flickering campfire. Our rafts are equipped with custom fishing frames and comfortable seats. Read our satisfied customer testimonials & reviews. Learn More →. Call 406.542.7411 for information today. Home to 100,000 Trout and a Few Fly Fishermen. Ready to go? ... BIGHORN FLY & TACKLE IN FORT SMITH MONTANA Lodging, Drift Boat Rentals, Shuttles, Guide Service, Guided Floats, and Fly Shop! Guides Our Smith river fly fishing guides are specialists at their craft and are just as proficient at Dutch oven cooking as they are at selecting the right fly for the day. The river winds through 60 miles of wilderness between public access points and is strictly regulated by ⦠We complement the main course with fresh salads, tasty side dishes, selected wines and end with a delectable dutch oven desert. The first hint of the Smith's canyon appears as very small headwalls. Montanaâs Smith River is a true gem. The beauty of the Smith River Canyon cannot be overstated. He began his career with Montana State Parks as a seasonal Park Ranger in 1996. Tyler Steele Fishing Guide Bighorn River, Fort Smith, MT. Smith River Outfitters offer professional river guide services for paddling and fishing on the Smith River and surrounding streams and rivers. Smith River State Park offers gorgeous scenery in a remote setting. Some of our favorite entrees include crab stuffed salmon fillets, cheese ravioli with red sauce, and, if our hunting season was successful, grilled wild Montana elk steaks. Guided Fly Fishing Trips & Lodging in Montana Healing Waters Lodge. You will be amazed at the ⦠We offer a wide range of trips from casting classes, instructional guide trips, day trips, multi-day trips, our exclusive Montana ⦠Welcome to Healing Waters Lodge where you will find everything youâll need to make your fly-fishing vacation memorable: World Class float-fishing trips on blue ribbon rivers such as the Smith River⦠This is a fully-guided ⦠What’s included: Smith River trips include everything – your guide, travel to and from river, rod/reel, terminal tackle, flies, three meals a day, tents and camping gear. Dinners are served family style and are often the highlight of the trip. Meadows give way to steeper slopes and long benches. Known for its spectacular scenery and blue-ribbon trout fishery, the Smith is a 59 mile stretch of river ⦠The Smith River ⦠Following a home cooked breakfast at Dorothy’s Cafe and a short drive to the confluence of Sheep Creek and the Smith River at Camp Baker, we’ll gear up for five days of angling on the Big Sky’s most stunning river. Indeed, at some point during the trip, you need to put the rod down, put your feet up and lean way back just to take it all in. It should be high on any western river angler’s “must do” list. We’ll escort you and your friends to the area waters fishing the best and prepare a satisfying riverside dining experience. Renowned trout fishing is just one of the recreational opportunities that make a float trip on the 59-mile ⦠The character of the river is incredably varied; including wide riffles and pools, shallow flats, deep under-cut cliff walls and quiet backwaters. Rods readied, wader boots laced, and oars in the water, anglers and guides are floating and fishing at their own pace, forced only to glance skyward every now and then to take in towering limestone cliffs and evergreen ridges. It then twists and turns for more than 100 miles through remote and scenic ⦠The following photographers' images are featured throughout my site. Colin Maas manages Smith River and Sluice Boxes State Parks. Lewis & Clark Expeditions has good guides who love what they do and know the Smith River and the techniques you need to catch fish. Fishing and Floating the Bighorn River from Yellowtail Dam to Hardin Montana. Guide Trips on the Smith River are all inclusive. The river is managed on a permit system and you must apply for launch dates. The headwalls then begin to grow higher, more frequent, until the river winds into a "half canyon" with towering sculptured limestone cliffs on one side and gently sloping meadows on the other. The 60-mile float trip begins north of White Sulphur Springs at Camp Baker. Tyler Steele - Big Horn River Fishing Outfitter and River Guide - Big Horn River ⦠The Smith River originates high in the Castle Mountains of central Montana and flows north between the Little Belt and Big Belt ranges, gathering water from half a dozen tributaries which then flows into the Missouri River about 10 miles upstream of Great Falls. The Smith River Canyon is the only waterway in Montana where all recreational floating is limited by a state legislated permit system. The Montana Smith River Fly Fishing Canyon Float is one of the most beautiful and amazing fishing experiences there is in the world. The Smith River is a remote river with great fly fishing, beautiful setting and limited access, providing a great, private fly fishing trip. All photo rights reserved. A tributary to the Missouri River, the Smith River ⦠Smith River 5 Day 4 Night Exclusive Trip (per angler) – $4,600. Respond to what the water dictates. Smith River float trips from Montana Flyfishing Connection. Smith River Rentals. CrossCurrents provides ⦠We offer this limited access trip on a first come first serve basis for groups of eight participants and usually early in the month of May. A mid-day hike in the foothills may be rewarded with the treasure of a "shed" elk or deer antler. This hatch ⦠Your only job is to relax, put your fly on the water and catch wild Montana trout. Winding through ranch lands shadowed by the Belt Mountains of central Montana, the Smith River begins its journey west to the Missouri. The Smith River originates high in the Castle Mountains of central Montana and flows north between the Little Belt and Big Belt ranges, gathering water from half a dozen tributaries which then flows into the Missouri River ⦠Smith River Flyfishing Expeditions provides all the flies, tippet and know how you need to catch fish and have a great time. PO Box 17701• Missoula, MT 59808 • (406) 370-2868 • joe@smithriverflyfishing.com • MT Outfitter #5157, We also outfit on many other great rivers in Montana - for details of all your options visit: Montana Flyfishing Connection. Montana Fly Fishing Guides and Tours (406) 370-9183 Sign up for special pricing, events, and reports. Winding through ranch lands shadowed by the Belt Mountains of central Montana, the Smith River begins its journey west to the Missouri. Owner Joe Sowerby and his professional crew are dedicated to making the 60-mile float down the Smith unforgettable. Duane Schreiner, Owner 61 First Street East Fort Smith⦠For those unfamiliar, the Smith River is located in central Montana and is the only river in the state that requires a permit to float whether you are doing a guided ⦠Smith River and Rock Creek Fly Fishing The Smith River is an excellent river for both brown trout and rainbow trout, this private access point has some of the better spots for catching ⦠It is here, through Montana’s most spectacular river canyon, that we conduct our five day/four night Smith River fly-fishing adventures. There is one trip that the entire Yellow Dog team looks forward to every spring, a trip that many of us Montanans consider the best trip of the year â the Smith River float. The river begins near White Sulphur Springs, Montana, at the confluence of the North and South Fork Smith River. From beginner to expert, our goal is to give you a singular experience that fits your skill level and personality. Sharing Montana rivers with anglers for over 20 years, Blackfoot River Outfitters' reputation as a leader in the Montana fly fishing industry, sits firmly on a foundation of loyal clients and their referrals. Wildlife is abundant throughout the river corridor. Stringent use limits imperative, given the river’s limited access, miles of seclusion, exceptional beauty, wilderness appeal and tremendous trout fishing. Our experienced guides strive to keep you safe, comfortable, into fish and many times entertained. Just downstream of the cowboy town of White Sulfur Springs, the Smith slices a sixty-three mile twisting jag right through the mountains before emptying out into the fertile Missouri River bottoms. Beautiful scenery, great fishing, comfortable and fun - Come experience Montanaâs legendary Smith River! Beginning near the small ranch town of White Sulphur Springs, the Smith River flows for over 60 miles through canyons, mountains and densely forested areas before meeting its confluence ⦠Just downstream of the cowboy town of White Sulfur Springs, the Smith slices a sixty-three mile twisting jag right through the mountains before emptying out into the fertile Missouri River bottoms. Montana Fly Fishing Guides offers professionally guided fly fishing trips for anglers throughout Montana on both famous and lesser known blue ribbon trout streams. Don't take our word for it. The Smith River Montana This is the best Smith River float trip available with chef-prepared gourmet meals, hors de oeuvres, and a full cocktail bar.There is no better way to enjoy the ⦠It is here, through Montanaâs most spectacular river canyon, that we conduct our five day/four night Smith River fly-fishing adventures. These docs can help you have the best float trip ever! ⦠Bryan Gregson - bryangregsonphotography.com, Brian Grossenbacher - grossenbacherphoto.com, Smith River Expeditions is a wholly owned subsidiary of Montana Flyfishing Connection, LLC
We will even show you a little Dutch oven cooking, part of our river trip tradition. Few of Montana’s prolific trout streams offer the solitude and magnitude of the Smith. Everything from the smallest Trico mayfly to the great "salmon fly" stonefly thrives throughout the river system. We provide transport that evening to White Sulfur Springs where, following a fried chicken dinner washed down with a couple of beers at the Mint Bar, we crash at All Seasons Hotel. Each year between the beginning of January, and the middle of February, Montana ⦠On the final day we typically fish hard for the first half of the day as we wind out of the canyon and into sheep country, then row to our takeout at Eden bridge. Although averaging more than 12 floating miles a day, an early start affords opportunities for midday sorties up side canyons to view Indian pictographs and other points of interest.