The Bighorn River
The Bighorn River is argumentatively the best fishery in the lower 48 states with an abundance of self sustaining rainbow and brown trout. The Bighorn River flows north into Montana from Wyoming and is halted by Yellowtail Dam. A few miles downstream is the unique Afterbay dam that actually starts the river. The combination of these two dam settings, along with consistent flows and temperature create an unbelievable bug and trout habitat. Deep limestone canyons upstream create high alkalinity that benefits incredible bug life. It is possible to cast to rising fish every month of the year. There are close to 10,000 fish per mile with trout ranging from 12 to 30 inches. With consistently cold water temperatures each fish is incredibly strong. These fish will test everyone’s ability and be ready to have several fish take you to the backing. It is truly a place where you can catch your best trout on a fly rod everyday of your trip.
The Missouri River
The Missouri River is a rich, fertile water full of giant rainbow and brown trout. This particular fishing destination is between Helena and Great Falls Montana. The river starts below Holter Dam and runs 48 miles downstream. It has unbelievable hatches of Tricos, PMDs, Baetis, and Caddis to name a few. A fisherman’s paradise for anglers who want to cast dry flies to giant heads. Pulling streamers entices eager browns and nymphing works day in and day out. The best times to travel to the Missouri is from May to the middle of July and then again in the fall. It is a shorter window so make sure and book early.
Other big river destinations include the Yellowstone, Madison, Gallatin, and Bitterroot.
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