Late Summer and Fall 2025 Lodge Highlights
As the 2025 season winds down, we’re reflecting on another memorable stretch of fishing, gatherings, and shared experiences across Montana’s rivers. From late-summer challenges to crisp fall days on the water, the season once again reminded us why adaptability, stewardship, and community matter.
2025 Late Summer & Fall Fishing Recap
Our diverse portfolio of rivers once again proved its value this season. While August and early September brought low, warm water on several systems, we still enjoyed outstanding days on the water. Even when fishing slowed, a day spent casting in Big Sky Country is always a great day.
As temperatures cooled and timely rains arrived, guests experienced more consistent action alongside beautiful autumn weather. The Big Hole River reopened for the final weeks of September, offering solid fishing, spectacular scenery, and abundant wildlife. Moose sightings were frequent—our Fishing Director, Tim Flynn, and guest Peter “enjoyed” close encounters three days in a row.
Wine Week: Review & 2026 Preview
We hosted our second annual Wine Week in mid-September, and it was a resounding success. Our culinary and hospitality teams once again outdid themselves, presenting four-course dinners inspired by the cuisines of France, Italy, Spain, and Montana—each expertly paired with wines from their respective regions.
Looking ahead, we’re raising the bar for Wine Week 2026 (July 19–23) by partnering with industry leader Erica Duecy, an acclaimed wine and spirits expert. Erica brings more than 20 years of experience building data-driven programs for leading drinks, tech, and media companies. She is WSET Advanced-certified, a wine judge, and the author of Storied Sips(Random House). Erica and her husband are avid fly anglers, and she joined us during our 2025 Fly-Fishing Academy. We’re thrilled to collaborate with her to make Wine Week 2026 our most engaging and memorable yet.
Cast & Blast with GUN DOG’s “Wild Upland”
In late September, we welcomed Kali Parmley, host of Wild Upland TV and Editor-in-Chief of GUN DOG and Backcountry Hunter magazines, along with her film crew, for our first official Cast & Blast at the lodge. Kali is an accomplished outdoor journalist and upland hunter whose work celebrates the bond between bird dogs, hunters, and wild places.
Joining the group were our Marketing Director Ben La Londe and Dr. Jessica Mackey La Londe, owners of Alpine Vizslas—a respected breeding and training program known for producing dual-champion dogs.
Day one brought sunshine and 80-degree temperatures as we pursued sage grouse in the upper Ruby Valley. Day two focused on Hungarian partridge closer to the lodge, producing multiple covey flushes and birds for the kitchen. Day three found us floating the Jefferson River beneath golden cottonwoods and bright blue skies, capped by a memorable bull moose crossing the river.
We’ll share air dates for the Wild Upland episode once it’s scheduled on the Outdoor Channel and YouTube.
Youth Fishing Derby
Our second annual Youth Fishing Derby, held during our end-of-season team picnic, was a highlight of the fall. Despite rainy conditions, several young anglers persevered for a chance to win an Orvis Clearwater rod and reel combo.
This year’s winner was Dalton Crismore, son of our maître d’, Amanda Morley. Dalton fished tirelessly through the drizzle and only gave his dad, Trent, “permission” to stop after more than an hour—showcasing a true angler’s spirit.
Personal Adventures: A Season of Challenge & Inspiration
This fall was one of adventure and inspiration for the Healing Waters Lodge family. Scott fulfilled a lifelong dream by trekking to Everest Base Camp, returning with stories that capture the spirit of exploration.
Meanwhile, Steve completed his third Ironman World Championship in Nice, France—an endurance test that mirrors the commitment and passion we bring to our work on Montana’s waters.
In September, we were honored to attend the 10th Anniversary Project Healing Waters Gala in New York City. Healing Waters Lodge donated a trip that helped raise nearly $20,000 to support veterans through the healing power of fly fishing.
Our conservation efforts continued as well, with a donated trip supporting the Trout Unlimited National Chapter and its 2025 Sweepstakes campaign—helping fund coldwater conservation nationwide.
Together, these experiences reflect what we value most: adventure, resilience, and stewardship of the waters we love.
Upcoming 2026 Healing Waters Lodge Events
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Dates:
August 16th-20th, 2026
September 19th-25th, 2026
April 12th-18th, 2026
April 26th-May 2nd, 2026
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Dates:
July 19th-23rd, 2026
Specifics and additional details to follow
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Dates:
September 2026
October 2026
Specifics and additional details to follow
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Availability for Smith River launch dates changes frequently. The dates referenced in this post may no longer be open and are included for informational and planning purposes only. Please contact Healing Waters Lodge directly for current availability.