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

Nick Forrester

Trained as a wildlife biologist, Nick's expertise in upland game birds has given him the upper hand as an outfitter and guide.

In addition to Nick, the resort employs a staff of Orvis-endorsed hunting and fishing guides. Many of these accomplished guides have been with us for two decades. Their deep knowledge of the river and the land provides an incomparable sporting experience for every Forrester's Bighorn guest.

Francine Forrester

Whether you hunt, fish or both, everyone can agree that the cuisine at Forrester’s Bighorn River Resort is unmatched and will leave you daydreaming of your return to our table. Likewise, years of nurturing relationships with Montana farmers who specialize in organic and all-natural produce, dairy and meat provides Forrester's Bighorn guests with the freshest menu items available. In fact, many vegetables and herbs come right from Francine’s kitchen garden.

  • "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
  • "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.
  • "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.
  • "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
  • "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.
  • "Hats off to a well run lodge and outfitter!"
    I was given the opportunity to visit Forrester’s on a last minute trip. Everything was top notch! Spent 4 nights and 3 days fishing. Food was mind blowing. Staff was incredible! Guide was patient (and my first time fly fishing) and worked his butt off for us. Rooms were clean and beds were comfortable. If you’re still debating, let this review seal the deal. Hats off to a well run lodge and outfitter!
    - B.H.
  • "All Inclusive"
    Forrester's Bighorn River Resort is a gem for those who want to float/wade the 13 miles of the tail out waters of the Bighorn Rive or go hunting for upland game birds. I opted for fishing and spent four nights with three days of fishing. The owners, Nick and Francine are wonderful hosts and have developed a wonderful lodge with wonderful accommodations, food guide service. Now the All-Inclusive package included transportation to a from the Billings, Montana airport to the lodge in Fort Smith, an hour and half drive. All lodging, meals, guides, fishing equipment and license, and the liquor of your choice. Now the lodge has two main floors. When you enter the lodge there is an open area that has a small lounge area with comfy leather chairs and a great fireplace, the reception desk, a gift shop and a small computer area. Down the hall is the kitchen and dining room. Breakfast is served at 8am each morning and dinner at 8pm and the meals are fantastic Upstairs is the Cigar Room where smoking is allowed when the heap exhaust fans are working, a large seating area, wide screen TV, which was never on, a game table and bar. Ones drink of choice will be at the bar with mixes and a small frig with beers. I stayed in one of the six cabins and my room had a rustic western motif with a wonderful bed, nice full bathroom, reading desk and a deck overlooking the river. Of course there was no TV or radio so it required you to read or connect with your device of choice. I read. Now this is not a hotel but a lodge so answers about a hotel do not apply.
    - W. J.
  • "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.

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