Summer 2025 Fly-Fishing Highlights in Montana
July: The Big Hole River
Despite low flows and ongoing hoot owl restrictions, the Big Hole continues to provide solid fishing opportunities for our guests this July. Early mornings have delivered rewarding results, particularly during recent trico hatches, which have brought exciting dry fly action to the surface.
Anglers have landed a healthy mix of browns and rainbows, with the occasional grayling and cutthroat making memorable appearances—testament to the river’s remarkable diversity. We’ve focused most of our efforts on the upper and canyon stretches, where cooler water and stunning scenery combine for some of the most picturesque floats of the season.
As always, the Big Hole delivers not only fish, but memories—and this month has been no exception.
July: The Beaverhead River
The upper Beaverhead continues to produce consistent action for anglers targeting larger fish, with strong hookups and impressive trout coming to net. While occasional high winds on Clark Canyon Reservoir have stirred up some turbidity for a day or two at a time, overall conditions have remained favorable throughout the month.
Further downstream from the dam, fishing has been productive and is expected to continue as trout increasingly key in on hoppers. These stretches offer exciting prospecting with terrestrials and a mix of nymph and dry-dropper setups. For guests who enjoy a slower pace and a more intimate experience, we’ve also had excellent days wading private-access sections of the Beaverhead—an ideal way to explore this technical and rewarding tailwater.
As July gives way to August, the Beaverhead remains one of our most reliable and rewarding options.
July: The Madison River
The Madison has offered a bit of a tale of two rivers this July. On cloudy days with low wind, the fishing has been reliably productive, with good dry fly and nymph action throughout much of the river. On the flip side, bright sun and strong winds have made for more challenging conditions—though that’s to be expected on any river this time of year.
What hasn’t changed is the Madison’s steady flows, cool water temperatures, and its signature blend of majestic scenery and dynamic fishing. Whether the bite is hot or you’re simply taking in the expansive beauty of the valley, a day on the Madison remains one of the great Montana experiences.
July: The Ruby River
The upper Ruby has fished well this month, especially on our single-angler floats using small rafts to navigate the river’s tight and scenic stretches. These trips offer a rewarding mix of solitude, adventure, and rising fish. One recent outing even came with a surprise—our guest and guide bumped into and chatted with David Letterman himself, while fishing what we affectionately refer to as the “Letterman float.”
Meanwhile, the lower Ruby has provided reliable action on private-access waters, where we often pair a day of wading with time on the adjacent spring creeks. It’s a combination that offers variety, productivity, and the kind of quiet, immersive experience many anglers seek out. From top to bottom, the Ruby has been a memorable part of July at the lodge.
Cast & Blast This Fall – Guided Fly Fishing & DIY Upland Hunting
This September and October, we’re offering special cast-and-blast opportunities for guests looking to enjoy Montana’s best fall fishing and upland bird hunting. Pair a couple days of guided fly fishing on our local rivers with a couple days of DIY upland hunting for sage grouse, blue grouse, and Hungarian partridge on nearby public lands. While we’re still building out our hunting operation and not offering guided hunts just yet, we’re providing discounted rates, hunting dog–friendly accommodations, and the local insight you need to hunt productively and responsibly. It’s a perfect combination for the self-reliant sportsman who wants to make the most of autumn in Southwest Montana.
Fall Fishing Academy – Spots Still Available
A quick reminder that we still have limited availability for our Fall Fishing Academy, a hands-on, skill-building experience designed for anglers looking to elevate their game. Whether you're new to fly fishing or refining advanced techniques, our guides provide personalized instruction on casting, reading water, entomology, and more—all in the heart of Montana’s fall season. With cooler temperatures, active fish, and fewer crowds, it’s the perfect time to learn and fish. Reserve your spot today and make this fall one to remember.
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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Guided Fly Fishing & DIY Upland Hunting
September & October, 2025
Limited Availability, Contact for Details
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Dates: April 12-18, 2026
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Dates: April 26th - May 2nd , 2026