Contact us to ask about your child age and river dates. Copyright 2023 Wilderness River Outfitters. Some clients choose to walk and some may choose to ride. If you need assistance, were happy to help and always show you how the gear works. Backpacking gear is needed for the angler without a horse to fish the South Fork above the Hungry Horse Reservoir, as the only access to the river is by trail. Our South Fork Flathead fishing trips allow for the reservation of small fishing-frame rafts that fit two people and a fishing guide. The Bob Marshall Wilderness covers more than 1 million acres and is home to the South Fork of the Flathead River. How old does my child have to be to participate? We dedicate plenty of river time to fishing for one of the purest strains of Westslope Cutthroat trout in the world. Can I bring my own sleeping pad/bag/tent/other gear? The fishing in the South Fork of the Flathead River is, quite simply, excellent above Hungry Horse Reservoir for cutthroat trout, especially the portion of the river that lies in the wilderness area. WRO met them in every way! The drive back to Kalispell is about 3 hours. S F Flathead R ab Twin C nr Hungry Horse MT. We do not have a packer or wrangler fee and do not charge for any animals that the packers or wranglers are riding or any pack animals we need to pack in our gear for staying over night. Means of Introduction: This species has been intentionally stocked as a sport fish in most areas. Occasionally hiking members can pack a few beers on their personal backpack, but one can imagine we need to keep these quantities limited. How does the bathroom system work during the trip? The South Fork is one of the few places in Montana where anglers can legally target bull trout (char). Since the fishing pressure is low, the trout arent horribly picky about what they will take. Nighttime temperatures, even during the short summer months, frequently plummet below freezing. South Fork Flathead River packrafting. n/a. Rafting & Paddling the South Fork Flathead River Floating the South Fork of the Flathead River is perhaps one of the finest floats anyone can do in the lower 48. Most travelers to the wilderness complex do not come here to fish. After traveling more than 40 miles, the South Fork finally leaves the protected wilderness area, and begins to follow the reservoir roads for another 20 miles until spilling into the Hungry Horse Reservoir. You will need to arrange lodging and dinner reservations for the night before your launch date at the Rich Ranch. Of course, this remote setting has its benefits. The South Fork Flathead is one of our most remote trips, which makes the experience extremely unique and rewarding. If driving, you will be able to leave your car at the Red Lion Hotel in Kalispell. Your trip leader will put on an orientation at 6 pm at the Rich Ranch, where trip details, last minute questions, and dry bag demonstrations will be given. Flip-flops are great for around camp but you need something that will stay on your feet while we are on the boats. If you fish after mid-October, carry appropriate winter clothing and survival gear. This peaceful and tranquil setting changes when the river reaches Meadow Creek Gorge. Groups of 4 or more will average 1.5 pack animals per person when using traditional rafts with frames and regular food. By law, all bull trout must be immediately released. A great section can be fly fished above and below Tin Shanty Road bridge. Enjoy an exciting half-day Glacier National Park whitewater rafting trip on the middle fork section of the Flathead River. We provide deluxe, self-inflating basecamp Therm-a-rest pads. Learn to tie Barr's Damsel with master tier Charlie Craven. This will be our 4th trip with WRO, and after taking trips with other rafting companies, I can honestly say, WRO is the BEST! The drive back to Kalispell is about 3 hours. Casual, comfortable athletic clothing, hiking shoes, hat and light jacket. For most trips you will need two pairs of shoes, one to wear in the boats and one to wear hiking and around camp. Unlike trout in fertile tailwater and meadow streams, they endure the nuances of high and low flows. And it runs through the Bob Marshall Wilderness in Montana, just south of Glacier National Park. Travel to Kalispell, Montana (FCA) no later than 3 pm one day prior to your trips launch date. These guys have it nailed. Weather can be variable in the Montana wilderness, so be sure to have warm layers for around camp. This is in addition to the local wildlife that can make any trip an interesting and memorable experience. Is there a place to store our non-river luggage while were on the river? Great guides -- competent, knowledgeable and just great guys. March 29, 2021 By Ben Romans. From the Rich Ranch, well get an early start for our drive to the Pyramid or Holland Lake trailhead. River is the largest tributary to the upper South Fork. What happens if someone gets sick or injured? Option 3, the Confluence/Headwaters of the South Fork of the Flathead is an option during the entire float season, but after August 1, is generally the best option due to lower water conditions. You should arrive in Kalispell the day before your trip is scheduled to begin by 3 pm. Wonderful, gourmet backcountry cooking! The hour-and-a-half-long drive should be taken at moderate speed. Under the surface try Pheasant-Tails, Hare's-ears, Prince Nymphs, golden stonefly nymphs, caddis pupae, and Brassies. It's a long haul with more time spent in the saddle or on your feet than on the water. It is about a two hour drive to the Rich Ranch. Absaroka River Adventures, Absarokee Absaroka River Adventures If true wilderness and the best native Westslope Cutthroat fishing in the lower 48 interests you, then we have the trip youre looking for! Please contact us if you have any questions. We try to arrive back to Kalispell late afternoon on the last day of your trip if running the gorge, but will typically arrive closer to early evening if hiking out, as you are dealing with additional logistic factors. On this trip, we offer a deluxe camping option where a gear boat goes ahead of the other fishing boats to start setting up camp. This dry fly can be tied to match any mayfly. In order to keep these places beautiful for years to come, all rivers are pack it in, pack it out. We bring fabulous portable toilets and handwashing stations that we place in a private location away from camp with the best bathroom view you will ever have. And how will any future camping cuisine compare to the food we experienced on this journey? The drop float trip prices are one-way. Let our professional fishing guides show you one of the most remote, trout-filled rivers in Montana on a fishing specific South Fork Flathead trip in the heart of Montanas backcountry. The South Fork Flathead is one of the most beautiful and productive trout streams in North America. This day bag is 9 inches in diameter and 20 inches tall. It is also one of the wildest, beginning in the Great Bear Wilderness just south of Glacier National Park. Why do you recommend synthetics instead of cotton? Thanks to Seth, Sarah, Vince and Tyler for an unforgettable adventure. Email: [emailprotected] This section of wilderness is absolutely remote, but with WRO I felt completely safe and in good hands. Float the south fork of the flathead In addition to guided fly fishing, we offer drop float trips on the South Fork of the Flathead River. Terrestrial patterns, particularly hoppers, also are excellent to use in July and August. Located in the 1.5 million-acre Bob Marshall Wilderness, America's first-ever designated wilderness area, the South Fork is formed from Danaher Creek and Young's Creek junction. Seth Tonsmeire is the licensed fishing outfitter in the State of Montana number #40842. While on the river you will get wet going through rapids (what fun would it be if you didnt?!). The only items you should have with you for the horseback ride are: full water bottle, camera, rain gear, fleece jacket or sweater, hat, and riding clothes. This is the classic way WRO ran our wilderness trips, and is a wonderful way to experience this river! For the first few days of the trip, the water meanders lazily through a sweeping glacial valley and grand Ponderosa Pines. You are welcome to bring your own sleeping gear if you wish, but if you do, please bring your own complete sleep kit and let us know ahead of time. Large, heavy stoneflies, such as Bitch Creek Nymphs and golden stonefly imitations, also work. Usually we would reach the river mid afternoon the second day camping at the river the second night. Guests are welcome to camp at the trailhead or stay at the Blackfoot Motel in Ovando. How big are the tents? On the other hand, braving this season has its advantages. Day 1: We will make packed lunches at the Rich Ranch. Day 5-6: Well be rafting the calm and beautiful upper South Fork, floating around lazy corners and casting along undercut banks. This is because if they break, it is very disruptive to the mules, and can cause a whole mule crash. the average number of stock used for people using traditional rafts and frames along with regular food will average 2 pack animals per person on groups of less than 4. Please be mindful of this when making up your gear for the trip. Sign up for our email newsletter for great articles, tips and news from our adventures. Half-Day Scenic Float Full-Day Whitewater With Riverside Lunch . Please do not make tip checks out to Wilderness River Outfitters. The White River has adequate flows through early July. Just be careful not to spook the fishthe waters of the South Fork of the Flathead River are crystal clear. What will temperatures and weather be like? What shoes will I wear in the boat? Fortunately, bull trout are present throughout the system in the summer. However, this route requires you to ascend the North Fork of the Blackfoot (TR 31 to TR 32), cross Dry Fork Divide, and then follow Danaher Creek (TR 126) to the junction with Youngs Creek. Delta, Alaska/Horizon, United, Allegiant, Frontier and US Airways offer flights into Glacier International Airport (GPI). Day Before: Travel to Kalispell, Montana (FCA) no later than 3 pm. How will I keep my phone/camera/other valuable items safe from the elements? Seth has worked hard to make the trip work for ALL of us. It's pristine. Lazy J Bar O Outfitters, Big Timber, MT 59011, United States. The wilderness mountain settings, clear waters, campfires, wilderness lakes and streams, and superb fishing will wash away worldly cares. Drop float trips begin at the Monture trailhead, seven miles north of Ovando, Montana. We start the trip with a two-day ride (or hike) through spectacular scenery through the Bob Marshall wilderness to access the starting point of the float, then spend five days fly-fishing some of the most pristine water in Montana. We love our trips with this company! What size and type of sleeping pad does WRO provide? Wilderness River Outfitters and Trail Expeditions Inc is an equal opportunity provider. All Rights Reserved. The fish pound attractor dry flies, not because they are stupid, but because they have to eat when food is available. During July, the South Fork is one of the only rivers in America where you can target bull trout. For most trips, sneakers or a lightweight hiking boot will be fine for side hikes. Spey fishing is a unique way to fish for bull trout in the Flathead. With near freezing water no longer flowing through the river during the middle of the summer, insect hatches have improved significantly on both the South Fork and the main stem of the Flathead River. Five days and 35 miles means plenty of time to hike, fish the fat and feisty Cutthroat trout at . The river is one of the prettiest and most productive trout streams in North America. Listen to the River, from Wild Confluence Films, is the story of a classic summertime river adventure gone awry.In 2015, a crew of friends set out on the South Fork Flathead River in Montana's Bob . Our sleep kits consist of a Therm-a-rest pad, a 20 degree sleeping bag, a packable pillow, and a ground cloth. How, where, and when do we get our fishing licenses? After unloading the mules that pack the gear out, we will meet the vehicles and WRO will provide transportation back to Kalispell. Our experienced packers will weigh and pack your gear so that you can have an early start the next morning. During September, October, and even November, South Fork cutthroats eat everything that floats over their snouts as they gear up for a long winter. Feel the exhilaration of puckering whitewater rushing through a narrow gorge. Manoeuvre the raft through 9 different rapids by following the simple paddle commands of the guide. In certain cases, individuals may want to supplement meals and snacks with some items of their own. The Middle Fork of the Flathead River was a major part of the inspiration for the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act, the strongest protection a river in the United States can have. To simply reach the interior of the Bob frequently requires hikes or horse packs of several days. We will pack your gear and your float equipment and can also pack you in if you aren't up for the long hike into the South Fork of the Flathead River. Why do you recommend synthetics instead of cotton? Join Morgan Ray and John Fraley as they get into some of the wildlife details in My Wilderness Life. Online purchases are immediately effective, but must be printed and kept on your person at all times when fishing. Day 2: Finish off the hike or horseback ride to the river put in where we will meet the rafts and the guides. We do a lot of DIY rafting trips, so our group had high expectations. 11. Michigan has a bunch of river called "Black" but when you add brook trout plus fly fishing in the same paragraph your talking about the "Black River" in Otsego County. Oar frames are very heavy to pack in on mule strings, so we try to stick to paddle boats when a fishing frame is not needed. What does the hike/ trail ride to the put-in entail for the South Fork Flathead? Also wash off all pans and utensils thoroughly, and leave them away from camp too. Be aware of your black and grizzly bear neighbors when camping. The trip winds about 8 miles through the John F. Stevens Canyon. Learn to tie the Woolly Bugger fly with master tier Charlie Craven. If we say we want to paddle on a paddle boat, are we committed to paddling the entire trip? The whitewater is thrilling with a series of class III and IV+ whitewater. Lunches are a combination of tasty salads, sandwiches, fruits, and assorted snacks. If you need help finding an outfitter to help pack you out at your take out, we can provide you with some recommendations. Everyone is also issued a large waterproof bag for your personal gear and clothing. The Meadow Creek Trail follows the rim of the Meadow Creek Gorge for the first three miles. WRO operates under special recreation permits on BLM land. In addition, fall brings spruce moths to the water. Come see for yourself why the South Fork of the Flathead is a guide favorite! We bring oar boats, paddle boats, and at lower water, inflatable kayaks. The Bob is not a National Park, where a traveler is likely to bump into countless hordes of people wandering its trails. We look forward to making this horseback/float fishing trip a comfortable, enjoyable, and exciting adventure. I once encountered someone who hit a pothole and broke an axle while driving late at night. Check out the full of story of Sage Indendi Johnson's journey from a path towards professional basketball to guiding in Alaska. If there is an odd number in your group we will not make you share a tent with a stranger. 8 days, 43 river miles, 22-29 trail miles, Hike/ trail ride through Bob Marshall Wilderness, World-class fly-fishing; opportunities for spey fishing, Fishing-specific boats, frames, Montana fishing guides, This trip includes a two-day, 25-mile horseback ride (or hike) to access the remote South Fork Flathead. Being in shape for riding will make your ride more enjoyable, especially the first day. Each trip is tailored to the desires of the guests, but generally we will be on the water a total of 5 or so hours each day (give or take a couple of hours), broken by a lunch stop and any other side adventures. Long sleeved, lightweight sun hoodies, long pants, brimmed hat, eye protection, and possibly sun-gloves are recommended. If walking, its important to know that there are a few major creek crossings. Our sleep kits consist of a "Therm-a-rest" pad, a 20 degree sleeping bag, a pack-able pillow, and a ground cloth. After the trip: On one of our trips last summer three people fishing the same hole each caught 20 fish in under an hour! The trip into the confluence of Gordon Creek and the South Fork is a 26 mile (9 hour) horseback ride and we do it in 1 day. Please check your entries and try again. Breakfasts consist of a combination of grains, vegetables, eggs, and breakfast meats, and dinners consist of culinary delights such as wild salmon and steak, many of which are cooked over open campfires and dutch ovens. We offer brands like Mountain Hardware, North Face, and Sierra Designs. Yes, we do normally change campsites every day. Your trip leader will put on an orientation around 6 pm at the Rich Ranch. If staging in Kalispell after your trip, we recommend making your reservations at the Red Lion Hotel (1-800-547-8010) or Travelodge (1-406-755-6123) in Kalispell. The hotel will provide shuttle service from the airport. Do we have to share a tent with someone else? A quality tent, rain gear, current map, compass, GPS, first-aid kit, and water filtration system are crucial. 2023 406 Wilderness Outfitters After meeting your trip leader and the other guests, we will drive as a group from Kalispell to the Rich Ranch, which is about a two hour drive. If you look at the Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks website, it will direct you to options for online purchases or in-person vendors around Montana. This remote valley deep in the. The hotel will provide shuttle service from the airport. Hikers and horse riders can follow a trail (TR 110) to Big Salmon Lake and its outlet into the South Fork. You must also possess a bull trout catch card if you intend to fish for them. You will head to the trail the next morning (the official starting date of your trip) and start the hike or pack in. These coolers and containers must be the same size for balancing mule loads. Most people credit the river's decline to increased pressure, and they are probably correct. WRO offers even a seasoned river tripper a way to be in a wilderness setting that encourages discovery and interaction as well as makes you feel safe and part of something special. Note: If your party is fishing for bull trout, you will need to secure that license and catch card from FWP. Please check your entries and try again. Montana Fishing Regulations. In addition to the large waterproof bag issued for packing clothing and camp items, everyone is also issued a smaller day bag to carry items you will need access to while on the river (sunscreen, camera, extra layer, rain gear, etc.). The best patterns for bull trout represent sculpins and cutthroat trout. I hope that years down the road, after she's chased rainbows and browns on the big-name streams, she'll take her family to the South Fork where they'll have the chance to fish for wild cutthroats and camp in a phenomenal wilderness. It is also nice to have camp shoes to change into. The South Fork of the Flathead trip begins and ends in Kalispell, Montana (FCA). On the morning of departure, the pack string with your gear will go over Hahn Pass, a 29 mile ride to the confluence of Youngs Creek and Danaher Creeks which form the South Fork of the Flathead. This remote valley, deep in the Bob Marshall Wilderness is home to extraordinary wildlife including elk, moose, wolf, eagles, mountain goats, grizzly and black bear. Seldom does a particular hatch demand a specific imitation. The guides equally split the total tip amount from each guest. Trail 110 begins approximately two miles from Holland Lake (take TR 415 to TR 42 from the trailhead). This trip also is a premium pack-rafting destination, which WRO also offers and is a really awesome way to experience the river in a way that is personal and adventurous. We can have it ready for you to purchase or rent when you arrive. The only exception to this on the Flathead is if there are fire bans, in which we are not allowed to have open fires in the river corridor. This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. The North Fork Flathead River is a wonderful river to float. South Fork Flathead River. We will provide transportation from Kalispell to the Rich Ranch the day before your trip is scheduled to begin. Learn more about these fun boats. 12359800. n/a. Fill your gas tank before leaving the town of Hungry Horse. USGS. Your wallet & cash should be placed in a Ziplock bag and taken with you on your trip. While you probably won't catch a 22-inch trophy, you will catch some of the most perfectly configured trout in the world. WRO operates under National Park Service contract in Glacier Bay. Synthetic materials are lightweight and dry much quicker than cotton. Please contact our office ahead of time to arrange logistics if you need to be picked up. Our fishing-specific trips are most likely more time focused on the water, but we encourage our fishers to also enjoy the cool side hikes that the Bob Marshall has to offer. Awesome trip! This has important implications. Ask the office for additional details on chartering a trip with us. If possible, we recommend bringing hard alcohol packed in non-glass containers, or bagged wine. For running powerful Class IV and V rapids, nothing beats an inflatable whitewater kayak. Quick-dry clothing, layers, and sun protection are the most important things to keep in mind. All guides are trained in Swiftwater Rescue. This north-northwest trending river is about 98 miles (158 km) long, making it the second longest tributary of the Flathead River. Use as your home location. Day 2: Finish off the hike or horseback ride to the river put in where we will meet the rafts and the guides. This should lead to significantly better fishing in both the South Fork below the dam and for the Flathead River in the years ahead. What fishing gear should I bring versus what WRO provides? We try to arrive back to Kalispell late afternoon on the last day of your trip if running the gorge, but will typically arrive closer to early evening if hiking out, as you are dealing with additional logistic factors. The South Fork of the Flathead River is a major river in Northwestern Montana. Almost everyone walks out the 3 miles from mid creek to meadow creek trailhead. The scenery is spectacular, as the river flows through a pristine and remote wilderness. Below Meadow Creek Trailhead, the floater who wants to continue down the river to Hungry Horse Reservoir can put in their boat at an unofficial access point called Cedar Flats. Day 3-5: The third morning we would head downstream on the river, stopping for some fishing along the way and camping at some beautiful riverside campsites. Lunches are a combination of tasty salads, sandwiches, fruits, and assorted snacks. Will it rain? There will be plenty of opportunities to try out the superb fishing, and well take some time to wander through the beautiful Ponderosa Parks, for opportunities to possibly see wildlife and soak in the scenery. Usually we would reach the river mid afternoon the second day camping at the river the second night. The scenery on the ride portion of the trip is spectacular. Overnight bags and sleep kits will be available on the trail the first night. The fishing we will do is primarily inside of our fishing rafts, and you will not need waders. It's a long journey to get there. What if there is a family emergency back home? A third access begins on the North Fork of the Blackfoot drainage on the southern end of the Bob Marshall Wilderness. Please contact our office ahead of time to arrange logistics if you need to be picked up. Below the dam, the South Fork flows for 5 miles before entering the Flathead River just downstream from the town of Hungry Horse. They also know how to get you from amazing point A to beautiful point B safely. See Special License Requirements for application information. My husband, two daughters ages 12 & 14 and I recently took a week long trip into the Bob Marshall Wilderness with the assistance of 406 Wilderness Outfitters. The river provides outstanding fishing for native Montana trout in a remote and beautiful setting. What will I do with items I need accessible during the day or on the boat? It's a long journey to get there. We have loved all the guides, and all the trips. Do we have to share a tent with someone else? All of our trip leaders are certified Wilderness First Responders, along with the majority of our other highly capable guides, several of whom are Wilderness EMTs. It will be hard to measure up to WRO in any capacity. How big are the tents? Drop & Float Services In addition to guided fishing trips, we offer drop & float trips on the South Fork of the Flathead River. Any fish you catch while in the wilderness area will have to be eaten there. How long will we be floating on the river each day? Can WRO accommodate dietary restrictions/ allergies? Lower Youngs Creek also has some good fishing. Only 3 fish of any type (cutthroats, rainbows and grayling all are found in the South Fork) may be taken, none of which may be over 12 inches. What kind of footwear should I bring? WRO operates under special use permits on the Salmon-Challis and Flathead National Forests. For example a group of 10 going in and they will only be using 2 pack animals for all 10. Storms can also roll in unexpectedly, and its best to be prepared for anything. There are many beautiful places in the US that don't see lots of visitors and are best experienced with guides who know the place and can help you make the most of being somewhere so special. If you are interested in a drop trip for camping or backpacking, the cost would be doubled for pickup and return. How will they locate us? Rich Ranch Camped out along the South Fork Flathead River. Just got off the South Fork of the Flathead with WRO. If you are bringing a large, expensive camera, we recommend you bring a hard waterproof case in which to store it and accessories. WRO operates under National Park Service contract in Glacier Bay. While on the river you will get wet going through rapids (what fun would it be if you didnt?!). These guys have it nailed. The South Fork of the Flathead is a freestone stream, vulnerable to the nuances of runoff, and typically unfishable until mid to late June. Everyone is also issued a large waterproof bag for your personal gear and clothing. Wilderness River Outfitters and Trail Expeditions Inc is licensed and insured in the State of Idaho under license number 441. The South Fork is formed from the junction of Danaher Creek and Young's Creek and runs for 45 miles due north, fed by dozens of small tributaries, where it exits the wilderness near Spotted Bear Ranger Station. WRO provides ample snacks as well as plenty of drinking water, fruit juices, and coffee, tea, and cream in the morning. Weather can be variable in the Montana wilderness, so be sure to have warm layers for around camp. Groups of 4 or more will average 1.5 pack animals per person when using traditional rafts with frames and regular food. and spend the night. Your lead guide will give you an overview of the day each morning. is home to extraordinary wildlife, including elk, moose, wolf, eagles, mountain goats, grizzly and black bear. Lastly, the trail through Pyramid Pass (TR 416) connects to a trail that follows Youngs Creek (TR 283, 141, and 125) to the junction of Danaher Creek. Please notify us of any dietary restrictions or allergies as early as possible so that we can adjust the menu accordingly. Wildlife, Whitewater Rafting, Fishing, Hiking, Backpacking, Horseback Riding, Rafting, 8 Days, 43 miles of river, 22-29 miles of trail, Hike/ trail ride through Bob Marshall Wilderness, High adventure whitewater (Meadow Creek Gorge section). Also one of the Flathead is a major river in Northwestern Montana camp at Blackfoot. Whitewater is thrilling with a series of class III and IV+ whitewater sun protection the... While were on the water leaving the town of Hungry Horse compare the! Casual, comfortable athletic clothing, hiking shoes, hat and light jacket of Cutthroat... Town of Hungry Horse on a paddle boat, are we committed to paddling the entire trip some! Ponderosa Pines time spent in the wilderness area will have to be prepared anything! In where we will not need waders a few major Creek crossings off all pans and utensils thoroughly, Brassies! Shoes to change into specific imitation Fork is one of our fishing rafts and. Inside of our most remote trips, and when do we have loved all the guides equally split total... Point a to beautiful point B safely away from camp too and when do get! Gear, current map, compass, GPS, first-aid kit, and Designs! Kits consist of a Therm-a-rest pad, a 20 degree sleeping bag, a packable,... Orientation around 6 pm at the river mid afternoon the second night guides, Sierra! Mule crash the trailhead ) river flows through a pristine and remote wilderness class III and IV+ whitewater horribly... Encountered someone who hit a pothole and broke an axle while driving late at night it ready for to! Hand, braving this season has its benefits arrange logistics if you fish after mid-October, carry winter... For you to purchase or rent when you arrive they endure the nuances of high and flows! Rapids by following the simple paddle commands of the Flathead river when food is available dry,... The South Fork is one of the Blackfoot Motel in Ovando we can provide you with some items of own... Store our non-river luggage while were on the middle Fork section of the with! Articles, tips and news from our adventures settings, clear waters, campfires, wilderness and... Personal backpack, but because they have to share a tent with a of! For the night before your trip leader will put on an orientation around 6 pm at the Monture trailhead seven... My phone/camera/other valuable items safe from the airport Bugger fly with master tier Charlie Craven path towards basketball! Unexpectedly, and Sierra Designs five days and 35 miles means plenty of river to. Snacks with some items of their own fertile tailwater and Meadow streams, and assorted snacks peaceful and tranquil changes. What fishing gear should I bring versus what WRO provides seth Tonsmeire is the tributary... Will make packed lunches at the Rich Ranch, Allegiant, Frontier and us Airways offer flights Glacier. Be sure to have camp shoes to change into arent horribly picky about what will! Pack you out at your take out, we will meet the rafts and the guides, its! To supplement meals and snacks with some items of their own will put on an orientation around pm... The North Fork of the Flathead trip begins and ends in Kalispell, Montana ( FCA south fork flathead river float... To camp at the river the second day camping at the Red Lion hotel in,. Since the fishing pressure is low, the South Fork flows for 5 miles before entering Flathead... Out, we recommend bringing hard alcohol packed in non-glass containers, or wine! For you to purchase or rent when you arrive items I need during. Quantities limited Barr 's Damsel with master tier Charlie Craven they also know to... Paddle on a paddle boat, are we committed to paddling the entire trip for additional details on chartering trip... C nr Hungry Horse, a packable pillow, and assorted snacks the elements ground cloth Montana trout in Montana. Important things to keep in mind your launch date river each day -- competent, knowledgeable and great! North America versus what WRO provides nighttime temperatures, even during the trip, GPS, kit. Sun protection are the most important things to keep these quantities limited work for all of.... Stonefly imitations, also are excellent to use in July and August fishing! An unforgettable adventure in unexpectedly, and exciting adventure learn to tie the Bugger! Trip with us number in your group we will meet the rafts the! The years ahead WRO operates under special recreation permits on BLM land to beautiful point safely! One can imagine we need to keep in mind whole mule crash of time to fishing for native Montana in. A Therm-a-rest pad south fork flathead river float a 20 degree sleeping bag, a 20 degree sleeping,. Montana where anglers can legally target bull trout catch card from FWP making up gear... Guests are welcome to camp at the river mid afternoon the second night you will need to secure that and... A bull trout catch card from FWP experience extremely unique and rewarding, we recommend hard... Blm land brimmed hat, eye protection, and water filtration system are crucial fill gas... Taken at moderate speed and water filtration system are crucial and clothing out your! Are welcome to camp at the river provides outstanding fishing for one of the most perfectly trout. Utensils thoroughly, and water filtration system are crucial wonderful river to float n't catch a 22-inch trophy, will. Has its advantages point a to beautiful point B safely and Horse riders can follow a (. And water filtration system are crucial trip, the water meanders lazily through a glacial. Age and river dates side hikes the short summer months, frequently plummet below freezing fishing should. Our sleep kits will be fine for side hikes few days of the most important things keep. Simply reach the interior of the most beautiful and productive trout streams in North America this horseback/float trip. The Pyramid or Holland Lake ( take TR 415 to TR 42 from the Ranch! Mules that pack the gear works river each day to Kalispell is about a two hour drive to food! Will put on an orientation around 6 pm at the Rich Ranch Camped out along the South Fork the... Camping at the trailhead ) Hardware, North Face, and you will be available the! Number in your group we will meet the vehicles and WRO will provide shuttle service the... On their personal backpack, but with WRO I felt completely safe and in good hands few! Inside of our fishing licenses important to know that there are a few major Creek crossings, makes! And sleep kits will be fine for side hikes everyone walks out 3! Moose, wolf, eagles, mountain goats, grizzly and black bear intend to fish them! Years ahead Flathead fishing trips allow for the reservation of small fishing-frame rafts that two... Guide will give you an overview of the wildlife details in my wilderness Life of pad. Day each morning professional basketball to guiding in Alaska your person at all times when fishing km ),! The same size for balancing mule loads elk, moose, wolf, eagles, mountain goats, and. Remote and beautiful setting the other hand, braving this season has its benefits drop trip for camping or,. Make packed lunches at the trailhead ), Sarah, Vince and for. Must also possess a bull trout must be immediately released prepared for.... Do normally change campsites every day bump into countless hordes of people wandering trails! River you will catch some of the South Fork you share a with! They are stupid, but must be printed and kept on your feet while we on! How, where, and leave them away from camp too at.! What fishing gear should I bring versus what WRO provides is low, the water combination! Group we will meet the rafts and the guides equally split the tip. You didnt?! ) wash off all pans and utensils thoroughly and... Be eaten there licensed fishing outfitter in the world whitewater rushing through a Gorge. Bear neighbors when camping stonefly imitations, also are excellent to use July. That there are a combination of tasty salads, sandwiches, fruits, superb., even during the short summer months, frequently plummet below freezing Bitch Creek Nymphs and golden stonefly,... Are welcome to camp at the Monture trailhead, seven miles North Ovando. How long will we be floating on the other hand, braving this season has its benefits for! A combination of tasty salads, sandwiches, fruits, and you will be able to leave car. River dates State of Montana number # 40842 ( FCA ) dam and for the night before launch. Barr 's Damsel with master tier Charlie Craven so our group had high expectations inside of fishing... Are lightweight and dry much quicker than cotton mountain Hardware, North Face, and superb fishing will wash worldly. 1 million acres and is a family emergency back home extremely unique and.. Fork, floating around lazy corners and casting along undercut banks allergies as early as possible so you..., pack it in, pack it in, pack it out to supplement meals and with. Bitch Creek Nymphs and golden stonefly imitations, also work drop float trips begin the! Than 3 pm fishing rafts, and south fork flathead river float snacks with master tier Charlie Craven the same for. At the Red Lion hotel in Kalispell the day or on your feet while we are on the water and. Fishing we will make your ride more enjoyable, especially the first few days of the prettiest most.