Montana's Premier Bighorn River Resort Experience Unparalleled Luxury: Hunt, Fish, and Relax in Montana's Finest Wilderness

FAQ

How far is the lodge from the Billings International Airport?

We’re about a 90-minute drive from the airport and directly on the prime fishing waters of the Bighorn River. Other lodges may be closer to the airport, but we’ve found that guests put more value on being closer to the prime fishing waters.

How far is your lodge from prime fishing on the Bighorn River?

Forrester's Bighorn River Resort is the only lodge with on-property access to the Bighorn River’s prime fishing waters. Here, instead of driving 55 minutes or more to and from the fish, our guests can step out of their private cabins, walk to the river and spend time doing more of what you’ve come here to do – catch big fish!

How far is the lodge from Afterbay Dam where float trips begin?

Forrester’s Bighorn River Resort is just ¼ mile from the dam – 3 minutes from front door to put-in. Other Montana lodges are a 55-minute or longer drive to the dam and river put-in.

Will your owners be there every day to make sure guests have a great stay?

We are the only Orvis-endorsed lodge with owners that are active, involved and on-property every day. Our owners are Nick Forrester, a wildlife biologist, and Francine Forrester, an executive chef. Both Nick and Francine are here, working hard every day to make sure you have the experience of a lifetime.

 

What Orvis endorsements does your lodge have?

Forrester’s Bighorn River Resort is the 2010 Orvis-endorsed Fly Fishing Lodge of the Year and the first lodge to receive Orvis’ Top Five Distinctive Endorsements for Fly Fishing Lodge, Fly Fishing Expedition, Wingshooting Lodge, Wingshooting Guide and Endorsed Outfitter. At our Montana resort, you’ll find the sophistication and consistency expected of a world-class sporting lodge, plus a home-away-from-home atmosphere created by owners, Nick and Francine Forrester.

Do you offer private cabin accommodations?

Yes. Forrester's Bighorn is the only Orvis-endorsed resort to offer our guests private, fully appointed log cabins with private, in-room telephones and complimentary wireless internet service – just in case you want to connect with the “real world.”

What's the view like from your private cabins?

Like no other in the Bighorn River area. From your private Forrester’s Bighorn cabin, you’ll look out into the beautiful Bighorn River framed by our majestic Montana mountains.

What kind of cuisine should I expect? And, what kind of training and experience do your chefs have?

Again, Forrester's Bighorn is unique. We are the only Bighorn River resort to offer a four-star dining experience at every meal. Our chefs have been trained in Europe, the Caribbean, and North America. They have more than 60 years of combined experience in creating, preparing and serving four-star gourmet feasts.

What type of areas do you offer for upland bird hunting?

Our upland bird hunting property covers thousands of Montana's acres that are spread over four distinct regions that hold huge numbers of pheasant, partridge and grouse. Our exclusive Cast & Blast event, offered each September through December, features a unique Bighorn fly-fishing and upland bird hunt experience in the same day.

How can I be sure Forrester's Bighorn River Resort is my best choice?

Compare our answers with those you get from other Montana lodges. When you do, you'll understand why more guests prefer to visit Forrester's Bighorn River Resort, where Montana keeps her promises.

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  • "5 stars across the board."
    The experience at Forrester’s Bighorn River Resort could not have been better. Francine and her staff could not have been more welcoming, friendly and accommodating. The main lodge and cabins were comfortable with beautiful views of the Bighorn River. All of the meals were exceptional and beautifully presented —very gourmet and delicious! Our fishing guide, Chris, was personable and very knowledgeable and fun to be with. We caught beautiful fish. We enjoyed the entire experience and the other guests. 5 stars across the board. Thank you, Francine, Paul and Chris.
  • "Great place to stay"
    Great place to stay and fish the Bighorn River
    - Sandy E.
  • "Forrester’s is a great experience and their location right on the Bighorn can’t be beat."
    For the last eight years I didn’t have much free time on my schedule. But whenever I had an opportunity to visit Forrester’s and fish the Bighorn, I made time. Forrester’s is a great experience and their location right on the Bighorn can’t be beat. Would highly recommend Forrester’s to anyone who demands the best location, lodging, dining and guides.
    - Dick Cheney
  • "If you get a chance to go up there I recommend it highly."
    I went to Forrester's Bighorn River Resort expecting beautiful scenery and to learn how to fly fish. Those expectations were absolutely met but I hadn't thought a lot about the accommodations or the food. The comfort of the resort and the friendliness of t
    - B.N.
  • "Wonderful hospitality and meals"
    Couldn't have asked for a better venue for our family reunion. Wonderful hospitality and meals that were second to none. Thanks to everyone for your part in helping us to create the beautiful memories we will carry with us!!
    - Naomi G.
  • "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
  • "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.
  • "Incredible Positive Experience!"
    Have you ever thought about fly fishing and catching rainbow trout? Have you ever thought of staying in a special place away from it all? Have you thought about staying in a place where there is a resident chief and professional fishing guides? Then you must consider taking a vacation in the south of Montana, close to Yellowstone Park, called Forrester’s Bighorn River Resort! For example, I have barely fished in my life yet on one outing on the Big Horn river, with our guide, I caught 11 trout! After the fishing experience our family was treated to a five-star dinner that was also served professionally and the portions were very generous. We live in Tennessee, which is not very close to Montana, but my wife and I are still hoping to return to Montana just to stay at Forrester’s Bighorn River Resort.
    - D. Saw

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