Fly Fishing Trip Preparation

Perhaps no other river has intrigued fishermen more than the Bighorn. But if you’re hoping to find large, cart-wheeling rainbows or line-peeling browns, you will need to know what type of equipment to bring on this once-in-a-lifetime fly-fishing experience.

We encourage you to contact our Montana fly fishing resort prior to your visit if you have any questions regarding gear.

Fly Rods

While most of today’s popular graphite rods will work on “The Horn,” a 7.5’ to 9’, 3- to 5-weight rod equipped with weight-forward floating line is preferred for dry fly fishing.

Nymphing with an 8.5’ to 9’, 5- to 6-weight rod is recommended. One thing you will find is that Bighorn trout are not leader shy.

Most guides recommend nothing finer than 5x tippet, even when using #20 Tricos.

Book your stay at Forrester’s Bighorn River Resortnow. Call (406) 333-1449now!

Clothing & Accessories

We suggest you pack your:

  • Fishing vest or fanny pack
  • Fly cases
  • Chest waders (either 2mm to 5mm Neoprene or Breathable)
  • Rain gear
  • Head wear
  • Polarized sunglasses
  • Insect repellent
  • Sun protection

Wading sandals are great for late summer wet wading. Breathable, long-sleeve shirts and shorts are ideal for hot summer days.

Fingerless gloves are invaluable during the winter. If you are not equipped with some of these items, our shop can help get you ready for the day.

Packing List

  • Dry Fly Rod 7.5-9, Line weight 3-5
  • Rain Gear
  • Rod & Reel Combination Case
  • Polarized Sunglasses
  • Insect Repellent
  • Head Wear
  • Sun Protection

Licenses

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  • "Can't Wait to Return to Forrester's!"
    Our first visit to Forrester's will definitely not be our last! Cozy, well-appointed cabin, yummy cuisine, and best of all, our fishing experience! We're still newbies at fly-fishing, and our fantastic guide, Matthew Granberg, could not have been more patient, knowledgeable and accommodating (as well as humorous and entertaining!). Being on the river with Matthew as our guide was definitely the high-point of the trip. Will definitely be back!
    - Rusty
  • "It was an awesome trip"
    I spent six days with my dad at Forrester's in mid-October 2017. The original intent was to split the time between upland hunting and fishing. We were so impressed after our first day of hunting, we altered our plans to hunt as many days as possible. Having brought my 3 year old red setter all the way from Minnesota, I was a bit nervous about how she'd handle the big Montana terrain. I'm happy to report she did awesome, and truly made the trip extra special. Our hunting guide was very helpful and worked with me to get my dog hunting well. It was an awesome trip. I hope this review helps for anyone bringing a dog. We had multiple moments where we had to pinch ourselves. That's how good the entire experience was.
    - Guest
  • "Great place to stay"
    Great place to stay and fish the Bighorn River
    - Sandy E.
  • "This place is absolutely world class!"
    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.
  • "This place is awesome."
    This place is awesome. Picturesque location overlooking the river, very close to town and the dam where you put in for fishing. The cabins are neat, clean, and well appointed. This is where we will stay every time we are in Fort Smith to fish the legendary Big Horn River.
    - Mark M.
  • "Amazing place to stay"
    Amazing place to stay with cute cabins off the Big Horn River. Great fishing and pheseant hunting. Friendly staff, very accommodating, excellent dinner service.
    - Jeni F.
  • "Great choice for the Bighorn"
    Nick is very friendly and helpful when planning your fishing adventure on the Bighorn. Our guide was new but with adequate knowledge of the river, willing to rerow different hotspots. The river itself has a lot of green vegetation growth so you will spend a lot of time cleaning your flies. Shop is limited in selection, primarily Orvis products. Good choice for a float rip on the Bighorn.
    - Thomas
  • "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.

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