Thank You for a Wonderful
2026 Season
Reflecting on a memorable 2026 season, thanking the people who made it special, and sharing what’s ahead for 2027.
As another fishing season comes to a close, we want to thank everyone who made 2026 such a memorable year at Healing Waters Lodge.
We’re especially grateful to our many returning guests, some of whom have been fishing with us for years, and equally thankful for the opportunity to welcome new guests into the Healing Waters Lodge family. The friendships and relationships we’ve developed over the years are among the most rewarding parts of what we do.
ON THE WATER
A Memorable Season on Montana’s Rivers
Timely rain, strong late-October fishing, and a team worth thanking.
From a fishing perspective, 2026 was a very good year. Despite some uncertainty surrounding snowpack heading into spring, we benefited from timely rainfall at several key points during the season. Those rains helped sustain river flows and fishing opportunities throughout the summer and into fall.
We finished the season on a high note, with excellent fishing continuing well into late October. It was a wonderful conclusion to another memorable season on Montana’s rivers.
We also want to recognize our exceptional team of guides and lodge staff, whose dedication, professionalism, and enthusiasm are at the heart of the Healing Waters Lodge experience.
Spring Fishing — One of Montana’s Best-Kept Secrets
Year after year, spring continues to be one of the most underrated times to fish southwest Montana. While many anglers focus on the traditional summer months, April and May can offer outstanding opportunities on our rivers, often with lighter fishing pressure.
The Big Hole, Madison, Jefferson, and Ruby can all provide excellent spring fishing as trout become increasingly active and changing conditions create a variety of opportunities. Our guides adapt their approach to match the conditions each day, taking advantage of dry fly fishing when opportunities arise. For those who traditionally visit during the summer or fall, we’d encourage you to consider adding an early-season trip.
PLAN YOUR NEXT VISIT
2027 Special Events & Programs
Here’s what we have planned for 2027, from fishing academies and family trips to Wine Week and the Smith River.
Fly Fishing Academies — Spring & Fall
Spring: April 18–24 & May 2–8, 2027
Fall: September 19–25 & September 25–October 1, 2027
Our Fishing Academies combine focused instruction with guided fishing on some of southwest Montana’s finest rivers. Designed for anglers who want to develop their skills or refine existing techniques, each program offers personalized instruction in a small-group setting, both on and off the water.
Each academy includes six nights at the lodge and five days of guided fishing and instruction. Spring offers uncrowded rivers and excellent early-season opportunities, while fall brings cooler temperatures, fewer anglers, and outstanding fishing in a beautiful setting. Whether you’re relatively new to fly fishing or an experienced angler, our guides tailor the experience to your goals.
Wine Week 2027
Dates: July 6–10, 2027
Our 2026 Wine Week, hosted in partnership with renowned sommelier and drinks industry expert Erica Duecy, was a tremendous success. We’re delighted to announce that Erica will be returning in 2027 to help us create another exceptional week of food, wine, and fly fishing.
Erica will work alongside our Executive Chef and sommelier, Natalia, sharing her knowledge of wine and the stories behind it.
We’re already exploring new themes, regional cuisines, and wine pairings for next summer. Guests can look forward to days on the river followed by evenings of good food, thoughtfully selected wines, and conversation.
Join us July 6–10 for four nights, three days of guided fishing, and another wonderful celebration of food, wine, and fly fishing at Healing Waters Lodge.
Youth Fly Fishing Program
Session 1: July 29–August 2, 2027
Session 2: August 2–6, 2027
Introducing the next generation to fly fishing remains an important part of what we do at Healing Waters Lodge. Following continued interest in our Youth Fly Fishing Program, we’re pleased to offer two sessions in 2027.
Each four-night program includes three days of guided fishing and hands-on instruction, giving young anglers and their parents or guardians an opportunity to develop skills and enjoy Montana’s rivers together.
One youth angler age 16 and under participates at no additional charge when accompanied by one paying adult.
Smith River Expeditions — 2027 & 2028
There’s something truly special about spending five days and four nights floating through the spectacular Smith River canyon. From the towering limestone cliffs and remote wilderness setting to the fishing and camaraderie around camp, the Smith offers an experience unlike any other in Montana.
You can find current 2027 Smith River launch availability on our website. Please contact us about departure dates and space for your group.
We’re also pleased to announce that we’re now accepting reservations for our 2028 Smith River expeditions. With a limited number of permitted launches each season, we encourage anyone considering a Smith River adventure to contact us early to discuss dates and availability.
STAY CONNECTED
On the Road This Winter
We’ll be back on the road this winter, connecting with returning guests and introducing new anglers to Healing Waters Lodge. Our schedule includes exhibiting at two of the country’s premier sporting conventions:
- Dallas Safari Club Convention: January 7–10, 2027 | Atlanta, Georgia
- Safari Club International Convention: January 20–23, 2027 | Nashville, Tennessee
We’re also planning another series of Orvis in-store events across the country, providing opportunities to meet with guests, discuss the upcoming fishing season, and share what’s new at HWL. We’ll announce additional locations and dates as plans are finalized.
If you’re planning to attend DSC or SCI, or would like to connect during one of our Orvis visits, we’d welcome the opportunity to visit in person.
From the Lodge
Although our fishing season has concluded, there’s plenty happening behind the scenes as we prepare for 2027. We’re already working on next year’s menus, wine selections, special events, and the many details that contribute to the Healing Waters Lodge experience.
Our focus remains on providing exceptional guided fishing, outstanding hospitality, and a relaxed, all-inclusive experience that allows our guests to simply enjoy their time in southwest Montana.
Until Next Season
As we reflect on another wonderful season, we’re reminded that what makes Healing Waters Lodge special goes well beyond the fishing. It’s the relationships we’ve built, the friendships that continue to grow, and the opportunity to share our corner of Montana with so many wonderful people.
To everyone who joined us in 2026, thank you for being part of another memorable year. We’re looking forward to reconnecting with returning guests and friends of HWL, welcoming new guests, and getting back on the water in 2027.
Until the next rise,
Steve Mackey & The Healing Waters Lodge Team