Fly Fishing the Bighorn River

The Bighorn's course is as unique as its fishing. After flowing out of the Rocky Mountains and through much of Wyoming the river flows into Bighorn Lake which is created by Yellowtail Dam.

Yellowtail is a 525 foot concrete dam that fills a remarkable 71 mile “breath taking” canyon and offers recreation for boating enthusiasts. But it isn't until the river releases from the bottom of the dam that the fishing becomes world-class.

This clear and cold release creates nearly 30 miles of prime wild trout habitat. Also worth mentioning is the Afterbay Dam, one mile below Yellowtail Dam, which takes the fluctuation out of this hydroelectric dam, which is prominent in tail water fisheries.

The result is constant flows year round.

Book your stay at our Montana fishing resort now. Call (406) 333-1449!

Enjoy The Luxury and Comfort of Montana's Premier Fishing Lodge

The Bighorn is arguably one of the finest streams in the state - and in the world. The high fish count per-mile is one thing, but the potential for a lifetime trophy brown or rainbow trout is very good on this river.

Browns average around 16 inches and rainbows average just a touch larger. Hatches are prolific the entire year and because the Bighorn is in the southeastern corner of the state and at a lower elevation than many Montana streams it can, and does, fish well the entire year.

The landscape is equally impressive with rolling plains, sparsely placed cottonwoods, and willows. Gravel and grass islands, with the oh-so-inviting side-channels, are found throughout the river.

These islands create unique riffle corners, side channels and drop-offs that always yield some great fish and great memories.

As one of Montana's premier fly fishing locations, the Bighorn truly is one of the great fisheries in the world. It offers the fly fisherperson the experience of a lifetime. This river always lives up to the legendary status it has earned.

Call (406) 333-1449 today to book your stay at our Montana fly fishing resort.

  • "This is the place to be!!"
    We had a great time during our stay at Forrester's. The cabins are comfortable and clean and the main lodge is beautiful and a great place to relax at the end of the day. We had two different guides, both knowledgeable and patient. The food is incredible..each day tops the last, including wonderful coolers packed for a day on the river. The hosts are experienced, available and intent on insuring that you have what you need and that you have a great time. Highly recommend this lodge!!
    - Edwd
  • "That Place You Keep Coming Back To"
    You know those places you keep coming back to, either literally or at least in your mind? This is one of those places. Nick and Francine ensure that your trip is top-notch. Cozy, deluxe cabins, warm lodge, great loft for watching a game and unwinding, and the food - 5-star cuisine by the talented Chef Frank! You just can't eat this well anywhere else! You can bird hunt or boat brown trout - all in the same day! This is a special place on the Bighorn River.
    - B.T.
  • "Flyfishing luxury in Montana"
    My wife and I have been Flyfishing and bird hunting at Forresters Bighorn Resort for ten years. Our last trip was great. Nick and Francene Forrester are genial , knowledgable hosts. The accommodation is perfect for this setting overlooking the Bighorn River in Montana. The dinners are possibly the best food in Southern Montana. Our fishing guide, Kevin, was skilled and a good companion . on the river. We will definitely be back
    - G. F.
  • "Great place to stay"
    Great place to stay and fish the Bighorn River
    - Sandy E.
  • "It could not have been a more perfect trip"
    Having never fly fished or been to Montana for that matter, I had no idea what to expect. Arriving at Forrester's we were greeted with warm smiles, sandwiches, drinks and all types of snacks. That was just the tip of the ice berg as far as food goes. Every meal was 5 courses and way beyond my expectations. I tell my friends it was by far the 3 best consecutive meals Ive ever eaten. The cabins are perfect and stocked with everything you will need including fresh ground coffee. The fishing was everything I had hoped for, patient guides and plenty of fish. We caught 32 fish the second day and had to skip the last 3 miles of the river due to heavy rain! Forrester's is a First Class family owned fishing resort that I will definitely be returning to. It could not have been a more perfect trip.
    - Guest
  • "Simply Amazing! Strongly Recommended!"
    My Father and I spent 5 days there hunting and fishing with Forresters. This place is absolutely world class! Francine and Nick are super nice and extremely attentive and will ensure you have everything you need - down to the last detail. The guides (Cash, Sean, and Ray) were truly experts in their craft. Oh, and the food was amazing! I would strongly recommend them.
    - Adam R.
  • "Fantastic Fishing Lodge"
    I can't say enough good things about Forester's Bighorn River Resort. My father has been going there to fish every year for over 20 years and I have been fortunate enough to go with him 4 times. If you are a serious fly fisher you will think you have died and gone to heaven at the resort. Even if you are rank amateur like me you will love it. The guides are so good you can't help but catch fish. Nick, Francie and the staff go out of their way to make everyone feel welcome and to cater to individual preferences. The cabins and the lodge are comfortable and well appointed. And the food is worth the trip all by itself. Frank makes better tasting and more beautifully presented meals than I've had in excellent restaurants. Thank you for another outstanding visit!
    - Connie H.
  • "The staff is always on point"
    Foresters is the spot to get out in the great outdoors and do some darn fly-fishing (and hunting during the proper seasons). The staff is always on point and they top it off with food that is on another level (possibly from a different planet), and will keep you guessing until your last night !!!
    - Justin T.

Where Every Moment is Exceptional

  • Unparalleled Luxury
    Experience the epitome of luxury at Forrester's Bighorn River Resort, where every detail is meticulously curated to provide guests with a lavish and unforgettable retreat amidst the stunning landscapes of Montana.
  • Culinary Excellence
    Indulge in the finest cuisine at Forrester's Bighorn River Resort, where our expert chefs create culinary masterpieces using locally sourced ingredients, promising a gastronomic journey that delights the senses.
  • Tailored Experiences
    At Forrester's Bighorn River Resort, we specialize in crafting personalized adventures, ensuring each guest enjoys tailored excursions tailored to their preferences and skill levels.

Book Your Stay

Visit our world-class Montana hunting & fishing lodge!

Forrester's Bighorn River Resort, perched above Montana's Bighorn River, offers unparalleled luxury hunting and fly fishing experiences amidst breathtaking vistas, private riverbanks, and deluxe accommodations, making it the ultimate destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking unforgettable adventures in the untamed Montana foothills.

Forrester’s Bighorn River Resort Forrester’s Bighorn River Resort
Contact 406-333-1449
Address
40.754 Hwy 313
Fort Smith, MT 59035
Map & Directions
Hours
  • Monday - Friday 7am - 7pm
  • Saturday - Sunday 7am - 7pm