June Reflections & Upcoming Events
Spring Momentum: Big Hole River in May and June
The Big Hole fished well through May and into mid-June, offering guests a productive and rewarding start to the season. Anglers enjoyed steady action throughout the river, with a variety of techniques producing fish and a noticeable presence of all four trout species.
One of our guests accomplished a rare highlight—landing a Big Hole Grand Slam with a rainbow, brown, brook trout, cutthroat, native grayling and a mountain whitefish all in the same day. It was a reminder of the river’s unique biodiversity and the special experiences it continues to provide.
A Running Start: Beaverhead River in May and June
The Beaverhead River has wasted no time in delivering great fishing to start the 2025 season. Early guests have been rewarded with healthy numbers of strong browns and rainbows, a testament to the river’s continued productivity. With reliable flows and solid holdover from winter conditions, the Beaverhead is already in fine form—offering the kind of technical, rewarding fishing it’s known for. If the first few weeks are any indication, this season is on track to be another standout year on one of Montana’s premier tailwaters.
Receding Waters, Rising Opportunity: Ruby River Update
The Ruby ran high through late May and early June as the reservoir filled and spilled over the dam for an extended period. Over the past ten days, however, both the river and the nearby spring creeks have settled into excellent shape and are now fishing well. With the reservoir at capacity, we’re optimistic about stable flows and consistent fishing conditions throughout the summer.
Early Calm, Now Classic: The Madison Heats Up
The Madison fished well through May, offering uncrowded conditions and productive action despite higher flows. As runoff recedes and the river settles into its summer pattern, flows have moderated and hatches have picked up—caddis, PMDs, and salmonflies have all been in play. Fishing remains solid, but as expected this time of year, anglers should be prepared to share the water with others enjoying one of Montana’s most iconic rivers.
Flowing Strong: Smith River Trips Exceed Expectations
Our Smith River Expeditions through mid-June have been fantastic this season—even during stretches of high water. As flows settled through early June, the river came into excellent shape, and the fishing has been nothing short of stellar. Guests have enjoyed incredible scenery, great camaraderie, and memorable days on the water. Evenings have been capped with exceptional riverside meals—fresh, hearty, and always a highlight. The wildlife sightings and hatches have made each trip feel like its own story. Many guests are already reserving their 2026 trips as they step off the river, so if you're considering a Smith River expedition next year, now is the time to start planning.
Hoppers & Highlands: August Fishing at Healing Waters Lodge
Guests at Healing Waters Lodge should not shy away from August—it remains an enjoyable and productive month on the water. While some rivers may see lower or warmer flows, our broad range of fisheries ensures we always have great options. August brings prime hopper fishing on our major rivers, spring creeks, and private waters, while mountain streams offer cool, clear water and eager brook trout and cutthroat in stunning alpine settings. Best of all, Montana’s dry, high-country climate offers a refreshing escape from the heat and humidity found in the Southern regions of the U.S.
Update on Big Hole Impairment Listing
The Big Hole River remains at the center of an important legal and environmental dispute. On May 12, Upper Missouri Waterkeeper, in partnership with the Big Hole River Foundation, filed a lawsuit against the Montana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), challenging its decision not to list the Big Hole as “impaired” due to excessive nutrient pollution. The petition cites years of data showing repeated exceedances in nitrogen and phosphorus levels—conditions associated with algal blooms, low dissolved oxygen, and declining trout populations. A court hearing followed on May 16 in Helena, focusing on whether the DEQ's decision met the standards of the federal Clean Water Act.
On June 12, the case was dismissed by the First Judicial District Court on procedural grounds, ruling that the case had been brought in the wrong jurisdiction. The court did not rule on the merits of the scientific claims or DEQ’s decision-making process. Upper Missouri Waterkeeper has since vowed to refile the case and is also pursuing a formal petition with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, requesting federal oversight due to Montana’s reliance on narrative nutrient standards—recently codified in SB 358 and HB 664—instead of numeric limits. The EPA is expected to respond to that petition by late July.
While the legal path forward may take time, the environmental concerns driving the case remain urgent. If the river is eventually listed as impaired, it would trigger a formal pollution reduction plan and open access to funding for targeted restoration. For now, advocates and local communities continue to monitor developments closely, underscoring the importance of protecting the Big Hole’s ecological health and the livelihoods it supports.
2025 Availability & Upcoming Events
A select number of Lodge dates remain for this season, contact us to reserve your place to enjoy the finest in fly fishing and hospitality.
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Learn the Craft, Live the Experience
September 28th - October 4th 2025
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From First Cast to Family Tradition
Dates: August 1st - 5th 2025
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Perfect Pairings in the Heart of Trout Country
Dates: August 10th - 14th 2025
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Guided Fly Fishing & DIY Upland Hunting
September & October, 2025
Limited Availability, Contact for Details