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 afour-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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"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. -
"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 -
"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 -
"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 -
"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 -
"Great place to stay"
Great place to stay and fish the Bighorn River- Sandy E. -
"Owners are gracious"
Recently my wife and I experienced for the second time the wonderful amenities of this first rate lodge on the Bighorn River. The temperature was hot, the fishing good, and the cuisine as usual was over the top. Nike and Francine the owners are gracious, the lodge staff very friendly and accommodating, and the fishing guides very professional. I was able to sight fish, hook and land a very nice 22” rainbow on a very small dry fly. The rating scale only goes to 5. A 10 would be more appropriate. Dale Sponaugle.- H. S. -
"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
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.
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