Renting a drift boat is the best way to access the endless trout filled riffles and runs found throughout the Bighorn River. Before you head out on the river one of our expert staff members will help you pick what section of river to float, which flies you should have and what techniques to use
How It Works
We try to make the drift boat rental process as simple as possible. After deciding which section of the river to float, a member of our staff will put the boat in at your desired starting point. When you are finished with your day of fishing simply secure the drift boat to the side of the boat ramp you will be taking out at and we will pick it up. While you are floating the river we will shuttle your vehicle from your starting point to the take out so it is there when you are finished. The drift boat rental rate Rental boat times are from 7am until dusk. We will do our best to accommodate earlier put in times when possible. Late night boat pickups for parties arriving after dark will be subject to a $20 pickup charge
Full Day Drift Boat Rental
$145.00
Afterbay - Three Mile, Three Mile - Bighorn Access, Afterbay - Bighorn Access. Floats from Bighorn Access to Mallard's access will have an additional $25 fee
What's Included?
Vehicle Shuttle
your vehicle will be waiting at the takeout
Pick up and Drop off of the Drift Boat
Oars, anchor, life jackets and a boat net
Coolers available upon request
Bighorn River Fly Fishing Guide Service
Hiring a guide is the best way to maximize your time fly fishing the Bighorn River. Consisting of some of the most courteous and hardworking guides in Montana, the Bighorn Angler guide staff is second to none. Each guide is a highly accomplished angler and fly fishing instructor whose only goal is to ensure you have the fly fishing trip of a lifetime! Our guide service is also the most flexible in Fort Smith, offering half day, full day and twilight guided fishing trips.
Booking A Trip
Our knowledgeable and friendly staff is here to assist you with every aspect of booking your trip to the Bighorn River. We can advise on lodging options, best times to come, transportation to and from Fort Smith, what to bring and anything else important to you when booking a trip.
A few things to keep in mind
Booking early ensures there is lodging available during prime dates. Our lodge rooms fill up fast. Many of our guides are in high demand. If you want to fish with the same guide again, it is best to book them as early as possible. We do our best to accommodate guide requests, however our guides are booked on a first come, first served basis.
Deposit & Cancellation Policy
We will confirm your reservation upon receipt of a 50% deposit. No refunds will be issued for cancellations within 30 days of your scheduled trip. If you cancel your trip outside of 30 days there will be a 10% processing fee to refund your deposit.
Rates
All of our guided fly fishing trips are all inclusive; Each trip includes all of your flies, equipment such as rod/reel, waders/boots if needed, tippet/leaders and full day trips include lunch.
Half Day - One or Two Anglers
$350.00
Full Day - One Angler
$395.00
Full Day - Two Anglers
$475.00
Full Day - Three Anglers
$650.00
Twilight Trip - One or Two Anglers
$385.00
Afternoon/Evening Float Trip typicallyy around 6 hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
What to Bring
Polarized Sunglasses, Rain Jacket, Fishing Hat, Camera, Waders & Boots or Sandals(waders & boots available for rent), Four to Six Weight Rod & Reel(available for rent in our fly shop, Sunscreen or Clothing with sun protection, Montana Fishing License (Available online or at the shop when you arrive).
What's Included in the Cost of a Guidetrip
Our guided fly fishing trips are all inclusive and include all neccessary flies, terminal tackle, equipment, lunch, water & soda, transportation to and from the river and of course expert instruction. Not included in the cost of a guide trip is your Montana fishing license and guide gratuities if applicable. We get asked quite often what is an appropriate tip? While any tip is greatly appreciated a standard tip is typically 15% - 20% of the cost of the guide trip.
If I Am New to Fly Fishing Should I Book a Guide Trip
Yes, absolutely! The Bighorn Angler team of guides are all patient, knowledgeable instructors who enjoy introducing others to the sport of fly fishing. Spending a day on the water with a knowledgeable guide will dramatically reduce the learning curve associated with learning how to fly fish. We also have all of the fishing equipment you will need for a day on the water.
Bighorn Angler Lodging Options
We offer a wide array of lodging options consisting of lodge rooms, cabins and custom homes to accomodate angling groups of any size. Whether you are making your first trip to the Bighorn River or an annual visit, our knowledgeable staff can help you find the lodging option that is right for you.
Bighorn Angler Lodge Rooms
Our newly remodeled lodge rooms offer anglers the best mix of quality, convenience and price in Fort Smith. The lodge offers rooms with either 2 or 3 beds. Each room is equipped with air conditioning, high quality bedding and towels, satellite television and wireless internet, which make them the perfect retreat after a long day on the river. Our lodge is decorated with original fly fishing art work provided by Derek DeYoung. Does not include 7% Montana Lodging Tax.
(per night for 1 person)$80.00
(per night for 2 people)$100.00
(per night for 3 people)$110.00
Bighorn Angler Cabins
New for 2014! These cabins are located at the Bighorn Angler. The cabins will have 2 Bedrooms, one bath, kitchen and sitting area along with a nice covered front porch. Air conditioning, wifi, 50" flat screen tv, satellite cable, towels, bedding, dinnerware, cooking utensils and a grill are also provided. Does not include 7% Montana Lodging Tax.
(per night for 2 person)$175.00
(per night for 3 people)$190.00
(per night for 4 people)$225.00
Riverbend Angler Cabins
Two identical luxury cabins, located on the bluff about one mile outside of Fort Smith Montana with over 40 acres of private land and a quarter mile of Bighorn River frontage. Each cabin is 2000 square feet with 3 bedrooms and two full bathrooms. There are 6 beds in each cabin and blowup mattresses can be provided upon request. Furnace, fireplace and air conditioning! The kitchen has all stainless steel appliances, concrete countertops, wine rack, herbs and spices for cooking, pots, pans, dishes, silverware....all the amenities that a gourmet kitchen should have, not to mention a priceless view of the Bighorn River. The living area has extremely comfortable leather furniture, reading lamps, fireplace, and a 50 inch plasma television with surround sound, DVD player, and satellite TV. And again, the extraordinary view of the Bighorn River! Cabins also have grills on the wrap around porches, wifi internet access and pets are welcome. Does not include 7% Montana lodging tax.
(per night)$400.00
Fisherman's Quarter's
Our most affordable option and basic lodge option consists of two twin beds, a private bath, mini-fridge, and WiFi. Perfect for minimalist anglers who are going to rise early and fish late and need a clean and comfortable place to shower and sleep. The quarters are a bit small but at $55 a night there is not a more affordable option on the Bighorn. Does not include 7% Montana Lodging Tax.
(per night)$60.00
Bighorn Country Lodge
Looking for a top notch Montana lodge experience? Look no further. The folks at BH Country Lodge will provided you with wonderful lodging and excellent meals in the secluded Montana countryside. This lodge consists of 4 large lodge rooms and one fully furnished cabin with a kitchen. This property is located near the three mile fishing access offers and exceptional value. Call us for more info! Does not include 7% Montana Lodging Tax.
Lodge Rooms
per day/per person based on double occupancy. This price includes a large hot breakfast, excellent dinner and your lodging.
(per day/per person)$135.00
Cabin
One to three people$150.00
4 people$175.00
Deposit & Cancellation Policy
We will confirm your reservation upon receipt of a 50% deposit.
No refunds will be issued for cancellations within 30 days of your scheduled trip...or? The entire refund will be forfeited for cancellations within 30 days of your scheduled trip. If you cancel your trip outside of 30 days there will be a 10% processing fee to refund your deposit, if paid by credit card.
Bighorn River Fly Shop
Located in the heart of Fort Smith, Montana, the Bighorn Angler is a fully stocked year round fly shop, offering the traveling angler everything they need to maximize their trip to the Bighorn River. Customer service and expert information are the cornerstone of our business. From fly pattern selection, fishing techniques or river information our friendly and courteous staff is here to ensure you have the best fishing trip possible. Hours: 7 am - 7 pm March through October November - February 8 am - Noon.
Bighorn River Fly Patterns
Our fly selection is the backbone of our business. We pride ourselves on having a vast selection of fly patterns to cover every stage of every hatch found on the Bighorn River. We also offer a wide array of custom fly patterns that you will find only at the Bighorn Angler. Premium Flies Provided By: Solitude, Idylwilde, Umpqua, Yellowstone Fly Goods, Montana Fly Company and Dave Student.
Bighorn Angler Rental Gear
We offer high quality rental gear from some of the top brands in the industry.
Wader and Boot Rental(per day)$20.00
Rod and Reel Rental(per day)$20.00
Bighorn River Vehicle Shuttles
We offer a fast and reliable shuttle service for your vehicle while you float the river.
Afterbay - 3 Mile Access$18.00
Afterbay or 3 Mile Access to Bighorn Access$25.00
Bighorn to Mallards Access$40.00
Mallard's - Two Leggins$50.00
Fort Smith Area Information
Dining In Fort Smith
Located across the street - Polly's Place serves breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. The River Run Dining Room attached to the Bighorn Trout Shop serves dinner nightly by reservation only. Reservations can be made up until 10 am the morning of. The Yellowtail Market is also next to our fly shop. Their sandwiches and fried chicken are a good option for lunch or a quick dinner.
Groceries And Gas In Fort Smith
The Yellowtail Market in Fort Smith offers basic dry goods, essentials like milk, juices, soft drinks, bottled water, frozen dinners and vegetables. They also sell diesel and unleaded gasoline.
Wine, Beer, Etc......
The Bighorn River flows through the Crow Indian Reservation, where the sale of alcoholic beverages is prohibited. Alcoholic beverages should be purchased in Hardin or Billings prior to your arrival.
Shuttle Service To Fort Smith
If you do not want to rent a car, Big Sky Shuttle Service provides a shuttle between Billings and Fort Smith. This a popular option since there is really no need for a car in Fort Smith.
We try to make the drift boat rental process as simple as possible. After deciding which section of the river to float, a member of our staff will put the boat in at your desired starting point. When you are finished with your day of fishing simply secure the drift boat to the side of the boat ramp you will be taking out at and we will pick it up. While you are floating the river we will shuttle your vehicle from your starting point to the take out so it is there when you are finished.