Floating Montana's Smith River is one of the U.S. West's legendary fly fishing trips and is high on the bucket list of many anglers’. The river winds through a remote 100 kilometre (60 mile) corridor that is dominated by dense forests and rugged limestone canyon walls.  The section of the river you will experience can only be accessed by boat and is strictly regulated by Montana Fish Wildlife and Parks and the Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest which limit the number of individuals to ensure that the pristine beauty of the canyon is not negatively impacted. The float trip scenery is comprised of towering limestone cliffs and heavily timbered forests broken by only a few small clusters of cabins situated on private land. The typical Smith River season is May, June and July, although late September and October can often provide great fishing as well.

Camping is at remote sites located along the river corridor. While you are fishing on the river, up to three gear rafts will row ahead of the anglers to set up camp. The camping is 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. 

The river is home to a wild population of hungry brown and rainbow 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. Your 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. You will be amazed at the level of comfort and the quality of the dining that you will experience.

Your Smith River adventure starts near Bozeman and ends between Helena and Great Falls. If flying to Montana we recommend you fly into Bozeman and out of Helena. If you are driving, we can arrange to have your vehicle shuttled from Bozeman to the takeout (additional charges apply).

What’s included:

Use of fishing equipment, all meals, complimentary wine and beer, guided fishing, camping equipment.

Rates:

5 nights/5-day trip: $4700.00USD* per person

Please contact On The Water Fly Fishing Travel for more information and to begin planning your Smith River adventure.