Silhouette of a person fishing, holding a fishing rod with a line cast into the water.

Smith River Expeditions — A Journey, Not Just a River

A scenic river flows through a lush valley with trees and green grass, surrounded by rocky cliffs on the right and a forested hillside on the left, under a clear blue sky.

The Premier All-Inclusive Smith River Backcountry Float Trip in Montana

Accessible only by permit, the Smith River is a true wilderness experience—an unforgettable five-day float through limestone canyons, hidden springs, and towering cliffs. Its clear flows and deep pools hold strong populations of wild trout, while each bend in the river reveals new scenery, wildlife, and solitude.

The Smith isn’t just a fishing trip—it’s an immersive journey through some of Montana’s most protected landscapes. For guests of Healing Waters Lodge, this river represents fly fishing at its most remote, memorable, and rewarding.

Embark on a five-day, four-night float through one of Montana’s most remote and awe-inspiring river canyons. The Smith River Expedition with Healing Waters Lodge is a 60-mile journey from Camp Baker to Eden Bridge, offering a rare chance to experience solitude, spectacular scenery, and some of the finest wild trout fishing in the West.

Limited access and permit restrictions make this a truly exclusive adventure. Each day, you'll float through towering limestone cliffs, pine forests, and open meadows—casting to brown and rainbow trout in deep pools, riffles, and undercut banks. The Smith’s prolific hatches, including Salmonflies and Golden Stones, provide thrilling dry fly opportunities in this wild and pristine setting.

Evenings are spent in well-appointed riverside camps that feel more like glamping than roughing it. Spacious tents, cozy cots, and chef-prepared meals create an atmosphere of comfort and camaraderie. Gather around the campfire under a sky full of stars, share stories from the day, and unwind in a setting far removed from the modern world.

Our professional guides and support team handle every detail—from navigating the river to setting up camp—so you can focus on what matters: fishing, relaxing, and soaking in the adventure. Due to high demand and limited availability, early reservations are highly recommended.

A scenic outdoor camping site on Montana's Smith River in a grassy meadow with several tents, surrounded by trees and mountains, under a sky with the sun shining through clouds.
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Scenic landscape of a river flowing between green forested hills and rocky cliffs under a blue sky with wispy clouds.
A man fishing in a river at the base of a mountain with tall evergreen trees, rocky cliffs, and partly cloudy blue sky.
A river runs through a canyon with steep rocky cliffs covered in trees on both sides. A small boat with people is visible on the river.
People sitting at a table outdoors, dining with plates of salad, wine bottles, and metallic cups on a red patterned tablecloth.
A white plate with cooked pasta topped with chopped parsley, grilled shrimp, and a side of sautéed spinach.
A scenic landscape of a winding river flowing through a lush, green forest at the base of rugged, rocky mountains covered in pine trees under a partly cloudy sky.
Three people in a small boat fishing in a river near a rocky cliff with green trees.
Close-up of a textured sandstone rock face with horizontal layers and reddish-brown and grayish tones.
Campsites with tents on a grassy field near a mountain with trees, under a clear blue sky.
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Accessible only by permit, the Smith River is a true wilderness experience—an unforgettable five-day float through limestone canyons, hidden springs, and towering cliffs. For guests of Healing Waters Lodge, this river represents fly fishing at its most remote, memorable, and rewarding.

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Every aspect of the service was excellent. We switched guides each day and each one was outstanding — true experts and a pleasure to fish with. I can’t say enough good things about the whole experience.

—Scott Sneden