Montana’s Smith River is one of the West’s legendary fly fishing trips. The river winds through nearly 60 miles of wilderness between public access points and is strictly regulated by Montana Fish Wildlife and Parks to ensure the pristine beauty of the canyon is not overrun. The river corridor is comprised of towering limestone cliffs and heavily timbered forests broken only by a few small clusters of cabins on private land.
The river is home to a wild population of hungry trout that see relatively low fishing pressure. Fish up to 20 inches are frequently encountered. Despite the high quality of the trout fishery, the fishing often takes a back seat to the amazing beauty of the river and the enjoyment of spending several days camping at truly amazing remote riverside campsites.
The fly fishing guides of the Smith River 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. You will be amazed at the level of comfort and the quality of the dining that you will experience.
Getting to the River
We recommend booking flights as soon as possible once you have firm river dates. It is best to fly into Montana the day before your first scheduled river day, arriving in the afternoon. When you arrive you will be greeted by a member of the guide team at the airport and then driven to White Sulphur Springs. There will be a room waiting for you at a hotel. The following morning we will begin your five day expedition.
On the last day of the trip you usually plan to get off the river early in the afternoon. Once off the river at the Eden Bridge take-out, you are 1 hour from Great Falls, 2 hours from Helena, and about 3 hours from Missoula. Most of our guests make reservations to stay overnight in either Helena or Great Falls after their last day on the river and fly home the following day.
The Camping and Food
Camping is at remote sites along the river corridor. While you are fishing on the river, a gear raft will row ahead of the anglers to set camp up. The camping is elaborate and comfortable and the food is both abundant and delicious. Time slows down on the river and you will quickly fall in love with the easy pace and gorgeous surroundings.
What is included?
Nearly everything except for your fishing license and guide gratuities. Flies, camping gear, food, and your accommodation the night before the departure date are all included. You are responsible for guide gratuities (average is about $500 per person) and your accommodation the night before you fly out.
Rates
Five day/ Five night trip: US$4,300 per person (US$1,250 single guide supplement)
For more information on the Smith River Float Trip or other fishing in Montana and the American West please contact Alex Jardine or call our office on +44(0)1980 847389.