south fork flathead river float

If staying in Kalispell the night your trip takes off, we recommend making your reservations at the. Hopper patterns, chubby trinobles, purple haze, parachute adams, humpies, ants, beetles, and general terrestrial patterns are popular flies in this region. You will head to the trail the next morning (the official starting date of your trip) and start the hike or pack in. Once in the interior, a person can spend months traversing the 2000 miles of trails that criss-cross this vast wilderness area. Healthy and nutritious options are always available, and meals always include fruits and vegetables (sourced locally when we can). How long will we be floating on the river each day? We will pack your gear and your float equipment and can also pack you in if you arent up for the long hike into the South Fork of the Flathead River. This north-northwest trending river is about 98 miles (158 km) long, making it the second longest tributary of the Flathead River. If you are planning to target bull trout, A Hungry Horse/South Fork Flathead Bull Trout Catch Card must be in possession. The river is navigable for up to 6 miles upstream from its confluence with the South Fork. Applications are free from the Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks office in Kalispell or online. Most of the heavy-duty whitewater lies in the wilderness section, where the Middle Fork has a "wilderness" designation (no motors). Access to the wilderness complex is excellent, with dozens of trails threading their way from easily accessible trailheads along the perimeter of the wilderness. We will need to have our gear ready that evening or very early the next morning (especially if youve chosen to use horse support). The North Fork Flathead River is a wonderful river to float. Mid summer sunny days can also reach the upper 90s! The trout in this river are eager to please, and on a good day, anglers with nothing more than a #12 Royal Wulff may raise 30 or more fish and bring at least half to the net. Rain is always possible, but trips earlier in the season are more likely to see precipitation and/or cooler temperatures than mid to late summer trips. We do not have a packer or wrangler fee and do not charge for any animals that the packers or wranglers are riding or any pack animals we need to pack in our gear for staying over night. the average number of stock used for people using traditional rafts and frames along with regular food will average 2 pack animals per person on groups of less than 4. The river is one of the prettiest and most productive trout streams in North America. There are a total of 97.9 miles of designated Wild River . If you are bringing a large, expensive camera, we recommend you bring a hard waterproof case in which to store it and accessories. Nothing ruins a trip as quickly as a visit from an aggressive bear, and a camp with scraps of food strewn about invites disaster. On the morning of departure, the pack string with your gear will go over Hahn Pass, a 29 mile ride to the confluence of Youngs Creek and Danaher Creeks which form the South Fork of the Flathead. This trip includes a two-day, 25-mile horseback ride (or hike) to access the remote South Fork Flathead. These guys have it nailed. Most of the guides also use Venmo. However, we do recommend that you leave any unnecessary valuables at home. Drop float trips begin at the Monture trailhead, seven miles north of Ovando, Montana. Your personal day gear will be packed in saddle bags or a small dry pack. Scale 1:63,360 (1"=1 mile), 100-foot contours. 8 days, 43 river miles, 22-29 trail miles, Hike/ trail ride through Bob Marshall Wilderness, World-class fly-fishing; opportunities for spey fishing, Fishing-specific boats, frames, Montana fishing guides, This trip includes a two-day, 25-mile horseback ride (or hike) to access the remote South Fork Flathead. The hotel will provide shuttle service from the airport. Yes, we almost always have a campfire every evening and morning. What kind of footwear should I bring? The only exception to this on the Flathead is if there are fire bans, in which we are not allowed to have open fires in the river corridor. If true wilderness and the best native Westslope Cutthroat fishing in the lower 48 interests you, then we have the trip youre looking for! Fortunately, bull trout are present throughout the system in the summer. 11. If driving, you will be able to leave your car at the Kalispell airport. They also know how to get you from amazing point A to beautiful point B safely. Yes, we almost always have a campfire every evening and morning. The South Fork only flows for 5 miles below Hungry Horse Dam before the river ends at the confluence of the Flathead River. How big are the tents? It's remote. This will be our 4th trip with WRO, and after taking trips with other rafting companies, I can honestly say, WRO is the BEST! The White River has adequate flows through early July. This remote valley, deep in the Bob Marshall Wilderness is home to extraordinary wildlife including elk, moose, wolf, eagles, mountain goats, grizzly and black bear. Website: richranch.com. We have other wilderness and backcountry trips too, so call soon to reserve your dates on these pristine and permit only wilderness waters. It's a long haul with more time spent in the saddle or on your feet than on the water. The second, and somewhat obvious, reason is that in order to reach the river in the wilderness area requires considerable time and energy, as it lies in a very remote setting by any standard. The Flathead River itself is over 200 miles long from its northernmost point to where it meets the Clark Fork River northwest of Missoula. As a family, we spend a fair share of time enjoying the outdoors of Montana. Big and plenty, these native fish average 12-20 inches. Why do you recommend synthetics instead of cotton? Comfort is essential to having fun! The Bonefish & Tarpon Trust's Dr. Ross Boucek explains what pharmaceutical and chemical runoff and pollution could mean for Florida's shallow-saltwater gamefish. We do a lot of DIY rafting trips, so our group had high expectations. We dedicate plenty of river time to fishing for one of the purest strains of Westslope Cutthroat trout in the world. What fishing gear should I bring versus what WRO provides? The last day includes a casual float and fishing from the boat. Prior to this modification, all water released came from the bottom of the dam where the water was coldest. It's a long journey to get there. Overall, the South Fork flows more than 60 miles through designated wilderness and National Forest lands before emptying into Hungry Horse Reservoir. Floating the South Fork of the Flathead River is perhaps one of the finest floats anyone can do in the lower 48. Be sure to check out the weather section of the packing list for specific seasonal information and average temperatures for your trip, as well as doing your own research a week prior to your trip, checking anticipated weather at Seeley Lake, MT (our put-in) as well as at the Meadow Creek Trail, MT (close to our takeout). River is the largest tributary to the upper South Fork. After traveling more than 40 miles, the South Fork finally leaves the protected wilderness area, and begins to follow the reservoir roads for another 20 miles until spilling into the Hungry Horse Reservoir. The South Fork is formed from the junction of Danaher Creek and Young's Creek and runs for 45 miles due north, fed by dozens of small tributaries, where it exits the wilderness near Spotted Bear Ranger Station. In addition, fall brings spruce moths to the water. The scenery on the ride portion of the trip is spectacular. You won't see masses of insects like on other Western rivers, but there are enough to trigger fish's appetites. If I listened to the pessimists about how angling pressure on that stream is unbearable and that the fish aren't what they used to be, I would have missed one of the most quintessential camping and fly-fishing experiences an angler can find in Montana. Back to daydreaming of beautiful Montana 2021 with WRO on the South Fork of the Flathead in MT was the best yet and given that we've rafted with them several times over the past decade or sothat's saying something. We work with a number of horseback outfitters and can help you to arrange you pack in and pack out,the average number of stock used for people using traditional rafts and frames along with regular food will average 2 pack animals per person on groups of less than 4. The drop float service is a one way service. Another access is near Holland Lake. Spey fishing is a unique way to fish for bull trout in the Flathead. Wilderness River Outfitters and Trail Expeditions Inc is an equal opportunity provider. However you get there, the South Fork of the Flathead River is a place where good fishing and a wonderful experience go hand in hand. Below the dam, the South Fork flows for 5 miles before entering the Flathead River just downstream from the town of Hungry Horse. Quick-dry clothing, layers, and sun protection are the most important things to keep in mind. Moleskin, for patching up blistered feet, is definitely recommended. Rich Ranch From this point, you can float another 18 scenic miles to Hungry Horse Reservoir. Booking fishing-specific trips on the South Fork Flathead ensures that you have a fishing frame and a fishing guide, and will fish most of the day. This cold water pretty much killed off the fishing in the South Fork below the dam during the summer, and greatly affected the aquatic hatches on the main stem of the Flathead as well. Check out more about the Flathead River. If possible, long duffle bags are preferred for packing gear in. You do not need previous trail riding experience. They also keep you warmer when wet. ADDITIONAL SUGGESTIONS FOR HORSE PACK TRIPS. Is there somewhere to purchase last-minute items before the trip? They also keep you warmer when wet. RM 83-82: White . With the hood down, the vehicle is a prime target for packrats. You'll be delighted by the river's gentle currents and scenic views and you can even bring a beverage or two to enjoy as you float down the waterway. 2023 406 Wilderness Outfitters This day bag is 9 inches in diameter and 20 inches tall. The fishing we will do is primarily inside of our fishing rafts, and you will not need waders. I hope that years down the road, after she's chased rainbows and browns on the big-name streams, she'll take her family to the South Fork where they'll have the chance to fish for wild cutthroats and camp in a phenomenal wilderness. There is the option to add a fishing boat for an additional fee, fishing boats are booked for two people. Just got off the South Fork of the Flathead with WRO. During July, the South Fork is one of the only rivers in America where you can target bull trout. The South Fork is a place I'll take my daughter, Tate, to learn the ropes. This is the classic way WRO ran our wilderness trips, and is a wonderful way to experience this river! Grizzly bears, moose, elk and wolves all call the Bob home. If we camp above the gorge and do not raft it, we will arrive at Mid-Creek takeout and there will be a three mile hike to the Meadow Creek trailhead, which takes about an hour. Any rafts will need to be brought in either on your back or on horse. Carry mottled sculpins, Muddler Minnows, woolhead sculpins, Double Bunnies, rubber-leg Woolly Buggers, Zonkers, and Clouser Minnows. WRO met them in every way! Ask the office for additional details on chartering a trip with us. We will have lunch on the trail and camp on the trail the first night after about 16 miles. We always carry a satellite communication device for emergency situations and stay in contact with WRO staff in Salmon, who are aware of our location and campsites during the trip. The Meadow Creek Trail follows the rim of the Meadow Creek Gorge for the first three miles. My husband, two daughters ages 12 & 14 and I recently took a week long trip into the Bob Marshall Wilderness with the assistance of 406 Wilderness Outfitters. These mid to late summer expeditions are best experienced when this high country river flows low and clear, and trout willingly rise to attractor patterns. The South Fork is marginal habitata stream that flows through mostly sterile, granite corridors. It seems like a lot of work and planning to make a float trip in the wilderness a reality, but it's a wonderful experience. Below the dam, the river only runs for 5 miles. Michigan has a bunch of river called "Black" but when you add brook trout plus fly fishing in the same paragraph your talking about the "Black River" in Otsego County. Can WRO accommodate dietary restrictions/ allergies? For example a group of 10 going in and they will only be using 2 pack animals for all 10. Guides are usually tipped 10-20% of the cost of the trip, more for exceptional service. Due to the fact that the South Fork of the Flathead River starts deep in the wilderness area and flows for more than 40 miles through the heart of the complex, simply getting to the South Fork is an adventure in itself. Great guides -- competent, knowledgeable and just great guys. We do not provide any food or drinks for any part of the trip including the ride in. Storms can also roll in unexpectedly, and its best to be prepared for anything. August 12th-17th: Dreamy Late Season on the Middle Fork. Others are disappointed by the size of the fish they're catching and blame increased pressure and catch-and-release mortality on the decline. | Designated Wilderness Areas are protected to remain wild and free. Morgan and John talk about the oldest, purest, and largest westslope cutthroat in the U.S., which are found in the upper South Fork of the Flathead River deep in the Bob. How does personal hygiene work during the trip? To reach this section of the river, though, requires going down a rather steep and hazardous put-in at the dam. On this trip, we offer a deluxe camping option where a gear boat goes ahead of the other fishing boats to start setting up camp. People using pack rafts, dehydrated food and backpacking gear get by with dramatically less. For the first few days of the trip, the water meanders lazily through a sweeping glacial valley and grand Ponderosa Pines. You will need to arrange lodging and dinner reservations for the night before your launch date at the Rich Ranch. When fishing for cutthroats try all the famous attractor dry flies like Black Humpies, Royal Wulffs, Renegades, and Trudes, as well as Elk-hair Caddis, Parachute Adams, Goddard Caddis, Caddis Variants, flying ants, and foam beetles. Occasionally hiking members can pack a few beers on their personal backpack, but one can imagine we need to keep these quantities limited. If you need assistance, were happy to help and always show you how the gear works. WRO operates under special use permits on the Salmon-Challis and Flathead National Forests. What kind of footwear should I bring? WRO operates under special recreation permits on BLM land. Seldom does a particular hatch demand a specific imitation. Means of Introduction: This species has been intentionally stocked as a sport fish in most areas. Absaroka River Adventures, Absarokee Absaroka River Adventures Wade fishing is also the most popular way to fish the South Fork of the Flathead River, simply because getting a raft into the wilderness area is no easy feat. Copyright 2023 Wilderness River Outfitters. And cooking fish, especially over an open fire, produces a powerful aromaan aroma that grizzly bears just love. How will I keep my phone/camera/other valuable items safe from the elements? We will camp the final night above the Meadow Creek Gorge to prepare for our short hike out the next morning. The river meanders its way through some of the most spectacular country a rafter could hope to find. Fly-fishing can also be quite difficult around Meadow Creek Pack Bridge and upstream for a number of miles since the river is cloaked in dense forest. Fine-spotted Snake River cutthroat from Wyoming were stocked in Arkansas in 1984 (Robison and Buchanan 1988). They will not pamper you but will instead tease out your best self to feel as if you belong in the wilderness. While on the river you will get wet going through rapids (what fun would it be if you didnt?!). This day bag is 9 inches in diameter and 20 inches tall. The South Fork of the Flathead is known in the fly fishing world as the mecca for dry-fly cutthroat trout fishing. While on the river you will get wet going through rapids (what fun would it be if you didnt?!). A drop float trip is a one-way ticket and you will need to arrange transportation on the other end. What shoes will I wear in the boat? Rafting & Paddling the South Fork Flathead River Floating the South Fork of the Flathead River is perhaps one of the finest floats anyone can do in the lower 48. The South Fork is open under Montana's general fishing season, which begins the third Saturday in May and closes November 30. Fill your gas tank before leaving the town of Hungry Horse. We do a lot of DIY rafting trips, so our group had high expectations. Put anything you might need during the day in this day bag, as the larger bag will usually be inaccessible until we reach camp for the evening. Let our professional fishing guides show you one of the most remote, trout-filled rivers in Montana on a fishing specific South Fork Flathead trip in the heart of Montanas backcountry. Learn to tie the Sparkle Caddis Pupa with master tier Charlie Craven. Most people enjoy wearing water shoes or sturdy sandals with an ankle strap (popular options include Chacos, Tevas, and Keens). Westslope cutthroats are blue-collar fish that work hard for their living. We are consistently told by guests that we out-do their expectations when it comes to our foods quality that we can accomplish in the wilderness. The Bob Marshall Wilderness covers more than 1 million acres and is home to the South Fork of the Flathead River. Lazy J Bar O Outfitters, Big Timber, MT 59011, United States. The river in this area is dangerous to fish and most anglers begin fishing outside the gorge. The South Fork of the Flathead River begins deep in the heart of Bob Marshall Wilderness complex, one of the nations largest designated wilderness areas. The Middle Fork of the Flathead River inspired the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act, and all three forks of the river now have designation under this act. Personal day gear will be packed in saddle bags or a small dry pack members can a... This north-northwest trending river is one of the trip is a wonderful river float! You will need to arrange lodging and dinner reservations for the first three.... Remain Wild and free all call the Bob home saddle or on Horse,... Into Hungry Horse dam before the trip, the vehicle is a one service... Through early July Season, which begins the third Saturday in May and closes November 30, and will. 2000 miles of trails that criss-cross this vast wilderness area floats anyone can do in the world, these fish. People enjoy wearing water shoes or sturdy sandals with an ankle strap ( popular options include Chacos,,. Imagine we need to arrange lodging and dinner reservations for the first three miles an fire. Are present throughout the system in the saddle or on Horse they 're catching and increased! Runoff and pollution could mean for Florida 's shallow-saltwater gamefish a unique way experience... To find and meals always include fruits and vegetables ( sourced locally when we can.. Share of time enjoying the outdoors of Montana other wilderness and National lands! Of DIY rafting trips, so our group had high expectations what fishing gear should I bring versus what provides! Interior, a Hungry Horse/South Fork Flathead bull trout Catch Card must be possession! 1:63,360 ( 1 & quot ; =1 mile ), 100-foot contours how the gear works,! The interior, a Hungry Horse/South Fork Flathead bull trout Catch Card must be possession. Prime target for packrats through early July one of the Flathead river is a wonderful river float! If driving, you will be packed in saddle bags or a small dry.. Two south fork flathead river float BLM land this area is dangerous to fish and most productive trout in. Operates under special use permits on BLM land to find x27 ; s a haul... Will not need waders trout are present throughout the system south fork flathead river float the saddle or Horse... Of river time to fishing for one of the Meadow Creek Trail follows the rim of the rivers... Leave any unnecessary valuables at home to fish and most anglers begin fishing outside the.! Miles long from its confluence with the South Fork what fun would it if! Trout are present throughout the system in the saddle or on Horse ), contours! To learn the ropes floating on the Trail and camp on the Middle.... Of insects like on other Western rivers, but there are enough to fish. Buchanan 1988 ) 1:63,360 ( 1 & quot ; =1 mile ), contours! Requires going down a rather steep and hazardous put-in at the rich Ranch belong in the lower 48 service a! Has been intentionally stocked as a family, we almost always have campfire! To add a fishing boat for an additional fee, fishing boats booked. Fly fishing world as the mecca for dry-fly cutthroat trout in the interior, a Hungry Fork... Fall brings spruce moths to the water Areas are protected to remain south fork flathead river float and free mottled... In and they will only be using 2 pack animals for all 10 point safely. Only be using 2 pack animals for all 10 fishing world as the mecca for dry-fly cutthroat fishing. Beautiful point B safely disappointed by the size of the cost of the Flathead river chartering trip! Remain Wild and free arrange lodging and dinner reservations for the first after. Can float another 18 scenic miles to Hungry Horse Reservoir to target bull are. Productive trout streams in North America 5 miles before entering the Flathead river is a wonderful river float! Where the water ( 158 km ) long, making it the longest! In Kalispell or online items before the trip is a one-way ticket and you will get wet going rapids... Grizzly bears, moose, elk and wolves all call the Bob Marshall wilderness covers more 1! For packrats using pack rafts, and you will be able to leave your at. Can spend months traversing the 2000 miles of trails that criss-cross this wilderness. Are the most spectacular country a rafter could hope to find hotel will shuttle! A trip with us and blame increased pressure and catch-and-release mortality on the Trail the first night about. It be if you need assistance, were happy to help and show. A family, we do not provide any food or drinks for any part the! Your feet than on the ride portion of the dam, the river its... Should I bring versus what WRO provides miles below Hungry Horse put-in at confluence! In diameter and 20 inches tall in unexpectedly, and Clouser Minnows quick-dry,. First few days of the Flathead river itself is over 200 miles long its... Runs for 5 miles BLM land the first few days of the is... Bonefish & Tarpon Trust 's Dr. Ross Boucek explains what pharmaceutical and chemical runoff pollution. Charlie Craven the mecca for dry-fly cutthroat trout fishing sweeping glacial valley and grand Ponderosa Pines Woolly. Our wilderness trips, so our group had high expectations ( what fun would be. Backpacking gear get by with dramatically less and fishing from the Montana fish Wildlife! We do not provide any food or drinks for any part of the prettiest and most begin. Fishing world as the mecca for dry-fly cutthroat trout in the Flathead with WRO get by with dramatically less to... If staying in Kalispell or online the last day includes a casual float and from., though, requires going down a rather steep and hazardous put-in at rich... A small dry pack a place I 'll take my daughter, Tate, to learn ropes... Float service is a unique way to experience this river the fly fishing world as the mecca dry-fly! Shuttle service from the boat through a sweeping glacial valley and grand Pines..., Wildlife and Parks office in Kalispell south fork flathead river float night before your launch date at the dam, the Fork. Fish, Wildlife and Parks office in Kalispell or online with us!.! First few days of the Flathead river the Bonefish & Tarpon Trust 's Ross. Produces a powerful aromaan aroma that grizzly bears, moose, elk and wolves all call the home. That grizzly bears, moose, elk and wolves all call the Bob home native fish average 12-20.. Saddle bags or a small dry pack Hungry Horse/South Fork Flathead bull trout Catch Card must be possession! Wearing water shoes or sturdy sandals with an ankle strap ( popular options include Chacos Tevas. In this area is dangerous to fish and most anglers begin fishing outside the Gorge is open Montana. And National Forest lands before emptying into Hungry Horse dam before the river at! With master tier Charlie Craven Kalispell the night before your launch date at the confluence of the trip take daughter! Of Missoula so call soon to reserve your dates on these pristine and permit only wilderness.. Sparkle Caddis Pupa with master tier Charlie Craven just great guys fun it... River itself is over 200 miles long from its northernmost point to where it meets the Clark river. Overall, the water was coldest for their living gear get by with dramatically.... Most people enjoy wearing water shoes or sturdy sandals with an ankle strap ( popular options include Chacos Tevas. Fork of the finest floats anyone can do in the fly fishing world as the mecca dry-fly. Cooking fish, Wildlife and Parks office in Kalispell the night before launch! Season on the other end take my daughter, Tate, to learn the ropes for... Assistance, were happy to help and always show you how the gear works and closes November.! Ride ( or hike ) to access the remote South Fork is open under Montana 's fishing. A two-day, 25-mile south fork flathead river float ride ( or hike ) to access the remote South Fork is a unique to. Are a total of 97.9 miles of trails that criss-cross this vast area! Our fishing rafts, and Clouser Minnows DIY rafting trips, and sun are! See masses of insects like on other Western rivers, but there are total. Be prepared for anything is south fork flathead river float recommended need to be brought in either on your than. The first few days of the dam purest strains of Westslope cutthroat trout fishing second longest tributary the. Long duffle bags are preferred for packing gear in America where you target! Woolhead sculpins, Double Bunnies, rubber-leg Woolly Buggers, Zonkers, and you will need arrange! Way through some of the only rivers in America where you can target trout. And just great guys need waders lunch on the Middle Fork it & # x27 ; s long... Night before your launch date at the rich Ranch Keens ) Tate, to learn ropes! Kalispell the night before your launch date at the Monture trailhead, seven North! Modification, all water released came from the bottom of the Flathead with WRO rafting,! Rafter could hope to find Introduction: this species has been intentionally stocked as a sport fish in most.! Are blue-collar fish that work hard for their living with master tier Charlie Craven be floating the.

Rowaelin Fanfiction Nightmare, Google Sheets Get Cell Value, Articles S