Big Hole River: One of the last undammed Western rivers, the Big Hole flows grandly through mountain meadows, rocky canyons, and pastureland. Rainbow, brown, brook, and cutthroat trout are found here, as are grayling and whitefish. There is a legendary salmon-fly hatch here in June. Terrestrials and caddis provide dry fly fishing in July and August.
Beaverhead River: This tailwater fishery holds large rainbow and brown trout. Its narrow banks are lined with willow and brush. Nymphs are used throughout the season, while dry fly fishing occurs mostly in July and August during caddis and stonefly hatches.
McCoy Spring Creek: This spring creek, located on a working cattle ranch, offers the challenge of sight-fishing with fine leaders for rainbows that average 17". Anglers can expect to cast to fish over 20".
Trophy browns and brook tout are also present here. This creek has a spectacular view of the Tobacco Root and Pioneer mountain ranges and its use is limited to four anglers.
Wise River: This freestone mountain stream, the primary tributary to the Big Hole river, is populated with rainbows, brookies, and some brown and cutthroat trout. It is fished only by wading from July until the end of the season. Caddis, pale morning duns, and stoneflies are the primary hatches.
High mountain lakes: Guests can take horseback trips to 9,000 foot mountain lakes in the Pioneer mountains in pursuit of cutthroat trout. No riding experience is necessary.
Equipment:
An Orvis fly shop located at the Lodge carries waders, rods, boots, flies and other tackle.
Guide Staff:
Most Lodge guides have been taking guests fishing for more than ten years. They are masters of the local waters and, with their wealth of fly fishing experiences, can offer insights and instruction to both novice and expert anglers.
Reservations:
(406) 832-3252
Rates:
From $1,450 per person for three nights to 2,895 per person for six nights. Rates are based on double occupancy and include guided fishing, lodging, meals, wine and beer (not liquor).
Minimum
Stay:
3 days
Deposit:
Yes
Payment:
American Express, Visa, Mastercard, personal check, and cash.
Transportation:
Guests generally fly into Butte, MT and are picked up at the airport by a Lodge shuttle.
Fishing
:
Lodging:
The Lodge, constructed with river rock and lodgepole pine, sits on a bank of the Wise River. The front porches of the guest cabins look on the Wise River valley and the Pioneer mountains.
For
Children:
Kids coming to the Lodge should have the attention span for a full day's fishing. The Lodge enjoys teaching fly fishing to novices, and children who want to learn it are welcome here.
Food/Dining:
Chef Lanette Evener's country gourmet recipes were featured in "The Great Ranch Cookbook". Desserts and breads are baked by the Lodge kitchen.
Business/Meetings:
Groups are welcome at the Lodge, which excels at teaching the sport to any beginners in your party.
Memberships:
Orvis Endorsed Fly Fishing Lodge.
Region/Customs:
The Big Hole region is a historic area of family ranches in a wilderness setting.
History:
Craig Fellin has owned and run this lodge since 1984.
E-mail
questions and comments to 