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.
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"Great hunting. Great Fishing!"
Great hunting. Great Fishing! Choose either, you will not be disappointed.- John Havlicek -
"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. -
"With the terrific bird hunting and excellent food at Forrester’s, we have a great vacation every time."
Mayo and I have come to the Bighorn for four years now, and for the last three years, we have arrived at the lodge to find the same convergence of fun repeat guests who hail from all over the country. We’ve become good friends, and will even be meeting up for some quail hunting in Georgia this winter. The group has a good mix of men and women. Some of us women hunt, some walk with the hunters, and some stay in and enjoy the peace and quiet of the lodge. We’re a little raucous at cocktail hour which we enjoy. With the terrific bird hunting and excellent food at Forrester’s, we have a great vacation every time.- Susan -
"The quality of the hunting and fishing are world-class"
The three trips that I had experienced with you at Forrester’s are some of the finest memories of my life. The quality of the hunting and fishing are world-class…the bottom line is that I can’t wait to come back again!- Johnny Miller -
"My BEST birthday present ever"
My BEST birthday present ever was my experience at Forrester's Big Horn Resort! This was a big X'0 b-day, so I have perspective. Catching the biggest and most trout is only a part of the WOW factor. Nick and Francine were gracious hosts in all ways as were the whole of their very skilled and attentive staff. Chef Frank and sous-chef Justin impressed us breakfast and dinner; the menus were so varied, and recipes so artfully conceived and exquisitely executed...we took pictures of our meals collected each evening''s menu for souvenirs. Nick Forrester arranged my fishing guide - Jim Wilkins - you're lucky if he's available; undoubtedly he is why I landed (and released) so many and beautiful large and hard fighting browns and rainbows. Then again, it seemed everyone on the upper Big Horn was doing great. Truly one of America's great fishing spots.- Peter & Patricia H. -
"Most memorable family reunion!"
Family Reunion! None of us are from Montana, but we gathered here to take advantage of the blue ribbon fishing on the river and the nearby lake for incredible boat rides through the beautiful Bighorn Canyon. My husband and I live here in Fort Smith and invited everyone to join us "out west". Family members have been thanking me for putting it all together but just between you and me - Nick and Fran helped us every step of the way - getting everything just right for our special weekend! Chef Frank pulled out all the stops when preparing dinner - I am still dreaming about that dessert.... Thank you to all the staff, Nick, Fran and Frank for a most memorable family reunion!- Jean M. -
"Take my word for it, the hunting, the fishing, and the people are all great."
Take my word for it, the hunting, the fishing, and the people are all great. I hunted. I fished. I had a damn fine time.- Bobby Knight -
"I always try to schedule a trip to Nick Forrester’s Bighorn River Resort!"
As a professional fishing guide, I get paid to fish all over the world. When it comes time to plan a personal vacation, I always try to schedule a trip to Nick Forrester’s Bighorn River Resort!- Ed Beattie
Where Every Moment is Exceptional
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Unparalleled LuxuryExperience 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.
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Culinary ExcellenceIndulge 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.
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Tailored ExperiencesAt 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.
Fort Smith, MT 59035 Map & Directions