Yes, there are usually outdoor stores located fairly close to all the hotels we recommend or on the way to the river. It gains volume with the contributions of the White River, Big and Little Salmon creeks, Black Bear Creek, and other small tributaries. Hike past pristine mountain lakes and snow-covered peaks. Upon reaching the Meadow Creek Pack Bridge, it is a short hike into the wilderness. Please be mindful of this when making up your gear for the trip. Fall is also the time aspens, tamaracks, and cottonwoods turn yellow and elk bugle from the surrounding slopes. Dispose of all entrails and uneaten portions far away from where you are camped. Operating under permit with the Custer Gallatin National Forest. Comfort is essential to having fun! The best patterns for bull trout represent sculpins and cutthroat trout. If you need help finding an outfitter to pack you out at the end of your float, we can help provide recommendations, depending on your take out point. The distance from the Dam to the trailhead at Meadow Creek Pack Bridge is about 50 miles, which takes about two hours. It is a Class III+ river, with steeper gradient upstream, expect narrow channels, shallow gravel bars and logjam potential. 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. Learn to tie Harrop's Hairwing Dun with master tier Charlie Craven. The reservoir is more than 50 miles long, created by the 460-foot Hungry Horse Dam. Please contact our office ahead of time to arrange logistics if you need to be picked up. Learn to tie Barr's Damsel with master tier Charlie Craven. Email: [emailprotected] If they feel inclined to tip packers or wranglers it is a nice gesture but not expected. How will they locate us? If you look at the Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks website, it will direct you to options for online purchases or in-person vendors around Montana. Contact us to ask about your child age and river dates. Copyright 2002 - 2022 Big Sky Fishing.Com, Introduction to the South Fork Flathead River, Photographs of the South Fork Flathead River, How to Choose the Best Inflatable Boat for Your Needs, How to Protect Your Phone While Fishing or Floating, Big Prairie Ranger Station Pack Bridge: 92, Black Bear Ranger Station Pack Bridge: 69.5, Takeout to avoid Meadow Creek Gorge: 61.6, Log Landing (take out point before Reservoir): 40. What fishing gear should I bring versus what WRO provides? Yes, we do normally change campsites every day. 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. The trout are all wildthere is no hatchery grown fish here. We need to keep soap out of the rivers in order to protect sensitive fish populations, so if you want to use soap and bathe on the trip, you need to do so above the high water mark (even biodegradable soaps). June 30- July 5th: Spend Fourth of July with WRO! South Fork Flathead trips are unique in the sense that you have to pack in your trip on a mule string, and most packing outfitters will not allow carbonated beverages to be packed on the animals. Below the dam, the river only runs for 5 miles. I once encountered someone who hit a pothole and broke an axle while driving late at night. Please contact our office ahead of time to arrange logistics if you need to be picked up. We've already booked 2022.ALASKA! We look forward to making this horseback/float fishing trip a comfortable, enjoyable, and exciting adventure. They also keep you warmer when wet. We usually start floating when the sun hits the water each day and arrive in camp late afternoon. There is a take out just before the Meadow Creek Gorge with good access and plenty of room to load gear onto horses or mules. Please try to pack coolers and containers that are the same size for balancing mule loads. All photos (174) Half Day Scenic Float on the Middle Fork of the Flathead River By Glacier Raft Company 311 reviews Recommended by 99% of travelers from $94.88 per adult Check availability Lowest price guarantee Reserve now & pay laterFree cancellation Ages 2-99, max of 45 per group Duration: 2h 30m Start time: Check availability Mobile ticket This trip includes a two-day, 25-mile horseback ride (or hike) to access the remote South Fork Flathead. Day 8: 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. Give a Gift We offer fishing-specific trips that reserve a fishing boat and frame and a professional fishing guide. Aug 15, 2019. You will be responsible for the cost of lodging and dinner here that is not included in the WRO trip cost. The Flathead River is a large river. If you are floating the river, you will need to arrange transportation at the end of your journey. I believe those reports, but today fish average between 8 and 14 inches with an occasional 17- to 20-inch fish. Westslope cutthroats are blue-collar fish that work hard for their living. Carry mottled sculpins, Muddler Minnows, woolhead sculpins, Double Bunnies, rubber-leg Woolly Buggers, Zonkers, and Clouser Minnows. They really strive to make each person comfortable and happy! It is also nice to have camp shoes to change into. This allows us to cover new scenery, rapids, and side adventures each day at a fun, comfortable pace. This means you have the option to read your magazine on most popular phones and tablets. If you are interested in a drop trip for camping or backpacking, the cost would be doubled for pickup and return. Though cutthroat are found throughout its length, the best fishing is between the Meadow Creek Trailhead and Black Bear Creek. This is a tight meandering river about 20 feet wide. This trip also is a premium pack-rafting destination, which WRO also offers and is a really awesome way to experience the river in a way that is personal and adventurous. Learn more about these fun boats. The only items you should have with you for the horseback ride are: full water bottle, camera, rain gear, fleece jacket or sweater, hat, and riding clothes. Meanwhile, clients will ride in from the Lodgepole trailhead, which is a 23 mile ride to the confluence. People using pack rafts, dehydrated food and backpacking gear get by with dramatically less. What if there is a family emergency back home? Absaroka River Adventures, Absarokee Absaroka River Adventures Drop float trips begin at the Monture trailhead, seven miles north of Ovando, Montana. Backpacking gear is needed for the angler without a horse to fish the South Fork above the Hungry Horse Reservoir, as the only access to the river is by trail. Middle Fork Flathead River. Your personal day gear will be packed in saddle bags or a small dry pack. From start to finish, our guides showed expert knowledge of the area and a keen attention to our group's needs. If you want to fish, a Montana fishing license is mandatory, and can be purchased just before you arrive if it is an in-person purchase. A variety of car rentals are available should you decide to visit Glacier National Park before or after your trip. 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. All guides are trained in Swiftwater Rescue. If we run the gorge, the final day we will have lunch on the river and take-out by mid-day at Spotted Bear Bridge. Weather can be variable in the Montana wilderness, so be sure to have warm layers for around camp. Large, heavy stoneflies, such as Bitch Creek Nymphs and golden stonefly imitations, also work. 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. There will be plenty of time to fish at lunch or at camp, but your on-river fishing will be more limited. Most of our tents are high-quality three-person tents, but we only put two people in each tent. The rapids are rated class 2 and 3, making for a fun and . By law, all bull trout must be immediately released. There will be plenty of opportunities to try out the superb fishing, and well take some time to wander through the beautiful Ponderosa Parks, for opportunities to possibly see wildlife and soak in the scenery. If you are bringing a large, expensive camera, we recommend you bring a hard waterproof case in which to store it and accessories. 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. If you need assistance, were happy to help and always show you how the gear works. Backpack or let the horses carry your gear and wear only a light daypack. They say anglers used to catch nearly 30 cutthroats a day between 15 and 20 inches. Spey fishing is a unique way to fish for bull trout in the Flathead. Jim Klug photo. This has important implications. We will need to have our gear ready either that evening or very early the next morning (especially if youve chosen to use horse support). Website: richranch.com. 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. Why do you recommend synthetics instead of cotton? The guides equally split the total tip amount from each guest. The result is that anglers now sometimes struggle to catch fish that are small enough to keep. Of course, this remote setting has its benefits. Copyright 2023 Wilderness River Outfitters. WRO met them in every way! For running powerful Class IV and V rapids, nothing beats an inflatable whitewater kayak. If I did not book the fishing-specific trip, can I still fish? After unloading the mules that pack the gear out, we will meet the vehicles and WRO will provide transportation back to Kalispell. Our max load per pack animal is 150 pounds. Failure to take these precautions is likely to lead to uninvited and probably unwanted guests with large claws and teeth probing your campsite during the night. A floater reels in a 12-inch cutthroat trout from the emerald green water of the Middle Fork of the Flathead River in Montana's Great Bear Wilderness Area in . Groups of 4 or more will average 1.5 pack animals per person when using traditional rafts with frames and regular food. It is about a two hour drive to the Rich Ranch. I can honestly say, this was the most memorable and seamless of all trips thanks to the unique and family- friendly service the Cheffs provide. We are currently working with Seth to go on a trip to the South Fork of the Flathead at the end of July. Copyright 2023 Wilderness River Outfitters. Use as your home location. We have experience working with vegetarian, vegan, dairy-free, gluten-free, nut allergies, etc. 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. The Middle Fork of the Flathead River was a major part of the inspiration for the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act, the strongest protection a river in the United States can have. To access the road section above the reservoir, you still have several hours of dirt road just to get there. If I did not book the fishing-specific trip, can I still fish? The reason for that is two fold. Please contact our office ahead of time to arrange logistics if you need to be picked up. WRO operates under special recreation permits on BLM land. For most trips you will need two pairs of shoes, one to wear in the boats and one to wear hiking and around camp. Being in shape for riding will make your ride more enjoyable, especially the first day. Cast for native trout along grassy meadows bursting with wildflowers. Some clients choose to walk and some may choose to ride. North Fork Flathead River, Montana, USA 9. It is one of the three main forks of the Flathead River, a tributary of the Clark Fork River. Subscriber Services. 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. This bag should be plenty large enough for everything listed on our suggested packing list. Six Montana paddlers took a five day backpacking and packrafting trip into the Bob Marshall Wilderness to float about 56 . We will pack your gear and your float equipment and can also pack you in if you aren't up for the long hike into the South Fork of the Flathead River. You should arrive in Kalispell the day before your trip is scheduled to begin by 3 pm. On the other hand, braving this season has its advantages. June 30- July 5th: Spend Fourth of July with WRO! Almost everyone walks out the 3 miles from mid creek to meadow creek trailhead. Floating the South Fork of the Flathead River is perhaps one of the finest floats anyone can do in the lower 48. (1-406-755-6123) in Kalispell. Four days of hiking and four days of rafting make for a truly unique backcountry experience in the wilderness of Montana. 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. WRO offers even a seasoned river tripper a way to be in a wilderness setting that encourages discovery and interaction as well as makes you feel safe and part of something special. They will not pamper you but will instead tease out your best self to feel as if you belong in the wilderness. We like to maintain a flexible schedule. What does the hike/ trail ride to the put-in entail for the South Fork Flathead? Numerous Class II, III and IV rapids exist in this gorge. There will be plenty of opportunities to try out the superb fishing, and well take some time to wander through the beautiful Ponderosa Parks, for opportunities to possibly see wildlife and soak in the scenery. This day bag is 9 inches in diameter and 20 inches tall. Rafts typically take one and a half pack animals, two rafts take three pack animals, and max load weight per pack animal is 150lbs. August 12th-17th: Dreamy Late Season on the Middle Fork. USGS. We ride over a mountain pass and through alpine meadows flourishing with wildflowers, before dropping into the headwaters of the South Fork. For well information this can be a district-assigned local number. The scenery is spectacular, as the river flows through a pristine and remote wilderness. Unless you want to carry a raft out of the wilderness, make arrangements in advance to pick up your gear on a predetermined date. How big are the waterproof bags and how much stuff can they hold? Wildlife, Whitewater Rafting, Fishing, Hiking, Backpacking, Horseback Riding, Rafting, 8 Days, 43 miles of river, 22-29 miles of trail, Hike/ trail ride through Bob Marshall Wilderness, High adventure whitewater (Meadow Creek Gorge section). Also wash off all pans and utensils thoroughly, and leave them away from camp too. It's a long journey to get there. However, if you want to match the South Fork's hatches, expect to see a smattering of Pale Morning Duns, caddis, and stoneflies. WRO guides bring a spare rod, a handful of popular flies, and leader and tippet, but we recommend guests bring their own 5 weight rod (cutthroat) and 6-8 weight rod (targeting bull trout), as well as their own fishing accessories and flies. In the interest of a more genuine wilderness experience, we encourage people to pick their own sleeping sites and set up their tents (or sleep under the stars, weather permitting!). We ride over a mountain pass and through alpine meadows flourishing with wildflowers, before dropping into the headwaters of the South Fork. The South Fork is marginal habitata stream that flows through mostly sterile, granite corridors. What is an appropriate gratuity for your guides? Each trip is tailored to the desires of the guests, but generally we will be on the water a total of 5 or so hours each day (give or take a couple of hours), broken by a lunch stop and any other side adventures. With these trips being in the middle of the summer, the temperatures are very pleasant and walk-and-wade fishing from the bank and on side streams can be done without waders. We recommend the most convenient lodging, which is usually where orientation is held and where group transportation will pick up and drop off guests before and after the trip. When booking your trip, you will need to know your pack-in preference, and horse reservations need to be arranged ahead of time through WRO. 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. Online purchases are immediately effective, but must be printed and kept on your person at all times when fishing. 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. There are numerous designated access sites, and it's pretty easy to navigate. In addition to guided fishing trips, we offer drop & float trips on the South Fork of the Flathead River. Some exceptions might be considered based on a child's experience with multi-day camping, hiking, horseback riding and rafting. Will it be cold? Manoeuvre the raft through 9 different rapids by following the simple paddle commands of the guide. Come see for yourself why the South Fork of the Flathead is a guide favorite! We will camp the final night above the Meadow Creek Gorge to prepare for our short hike out the next morning. The guides can help carry and heat up some water if needed. The final night is a celebration of our amazing adventure around a roaring campfire. The fish pound attractor dry flies, not because they are stupid, but because they have to eat when food is available. 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. Moleskin, for patching up blistered feet, is definitely recommended. We provide transportation back to Kalispell from either the Meadow Creek trailhead after a three mile hike if not running the gorge (1 hour hike, 3 hour drive plus mule packing gear unload), or from the Spotted Bear Bridge takeout (3 hour drive) if rafting the gorge. Any rafts will need to be brought in either on your back or on horse. If driving, you will be able to leave your car at the Red Lion Hotel in Kalispell. If driving, you will be able to leave your car at the Red Lion Hotel in Kalispell. You won't see masses of insects like on other Western rivers, but there are enough to trigger fish's appetites. 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. Day Before: Travel to Kalispell, Montana (FCA) no later than 3 pm. Address: 3763 S Lincoln Road, Mt Pleasant, MI 48858. How does personal hygiene work during the trip? Summer temperatures in Montana can fluctuate dramatically in a 24-hour period, from freezing at night to 70-90's the next afternoon. Listen to the River, from Wild Confluence Films, is the story of a classic summertime river adventure gone awry.In 2015, a crew of friends set out on the South Fork Flathead River in Montana's Bob . While on the river you will get wet going through rapids (what fun would it be if you didnt?!). You can either hike in or be packed in by horse, which is an additional cost not included in your WRO trip cost. Regardless of where you enter the Bob, the South Fork is a wade fishermans dream. Explore all WRO trips on our interactive map . Located in the 1.5 million-acre Bob Marshall Wilderness, America's first-ever designated wilderness area, the South Fork is formed from Danaher Creek and Young's Creek junction. Do we have to share a tent with someone else? These are very comfortable and fit very nicely in our gear bags. We will provide transportation from Kalispell to the Rich Ranch the day before your trip is scheduled to begin. Check out more about the Flathead River. Day Before: Travel to Kalispell, Montana (FCA) no later than 3 pm. Another access is near Holland Lake. We will need to have our gear ready either that evening or very early the next morning (especially if youve chosen to use horse support). It is helpful but not necessary to do some riding prior to your trip. 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. 0. Prior to this modification, all water released came from the bottom of the dam where the water was coldest. Our guides are knowledgeable with flies, the waters of the South Fork, and all aspects of fly-fishing, and they are ready to advise if you need assistance. ADDITIONAL SUGGESTIONS FOR HORSE PACK TRIPS. And how will any future camping cuisine compare to the food we experienced on this journey? We have other wilderness and backcountry trips too, so call soon to reserve your dates on these pristine and permit only wilderness waters. The trail is long and having a gentle mountain horse to bring you in, might just be the way you want to start your river adventure. Hungry Horse Dam was modified in the mid 1990s to allow it to draw water from any depth of the reservoir. WRO will happily do our best to accommodate any dietary restrictions at no additional cost! It appeared in the June-July 2010 issue of Fly Fisherman. This is about 2 miles south of the Trailhead, and requires a short walk to the river. See more reasons why were ranked so high on Trip Advisor . The White River has adequate flows through early July. 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 river is one of the prettiest and most productive trout streams in North America. However, this route requires you to ascend the North Fork of the Blackfoot (TR 31 to TR 32), cross Dry Fork Divide, and then follow Danaher Creek (TR 126) to the junction with Youngs Creek. Great guides -- competent, knowledgeable and just great guys. The drop float service is a one way service. The Bob Marshall is one of the most beautiful and beloved wilderness areas in all the US. Can I bring my own sleeping pad/bag/tent/other gear? Learn to tie the Sparkle Caddis Pupa with master tier Charlie Craven. We can provide an empty dry bag to store your sleep kit in. The Middle Fork has an average gradient of about 35 feet per mile, which translates to punchy Class III-IV rapids on earlier trips and boulder garden rapids during lower flows. The trip winds about 8 miles through the John F. Stevens Canyon. Under the surface try Pheasant-Tails, Hare's-ears, Prince Nymphs, golden stonefly nymphs, caddis pupae, and Brassies. The Bob Marshall Wilderness covers more than 1 million acres and is home to the South Fork of the Flathead River. Spey fishing is a unique way to fish for bull trout in the Flathead. Below Meadow Creek Trailhead, the floater who wants to continue down the river to Hungry Horse Reservoir can put in their boat at an unofficial access point called Cedar Flats. These guys have it nailed. Day 3-5: The third morning we would head downstream on the river, stopping for some fishing along the way and camping at some beautiful riverside campsites. Montana Fishing Regulations. Something went wrong. Ask the office for additional details on chartering a trip with us. South Fork of the Flathead Explore the Heart of Montana's Bob Marshall Wilderness Overview Hike past pristine mountain lakes and snow-covered peaks. Draining a sizeable portion of Northwest Montana, including parts of Glacier National Park and the Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex, the waters of the Flathead River flow swiftly through some of the most beautiful scenery Montana offers. If you fish after mid-October, carry appropriate winter clothing and survival gear. Flip-flops are great for around camp but you need something that will stay on your feet while we are on the boats. In addition, due to the new regulations regarding watercraft inspections, please be sure that you are following the Montana Fish and Wildlife regulations and have your watercraft inspected before dropping it off to us for packing. In order to keep these places beautiful for years to come, all rivers are pack it in, pack it out. We bring fabulous portable toilets and handwashing stations that we place in a private location away from camp with the best bathroom view you will ever have. If hiking in, you will want to have a backpack with your personal gear such as water, layers, snacks, packed lunch, basic first aid, sunscreen, medications, etc. On the third day of the float, we enter Meadow Creek Gorge and the character of the river changes dramatically. To reach the trailhead, take FR 477 just north of Seeley Lake. Will it rain? And cutthroat trout after your trip by the 460-foot Hungry Horse Dam for additional details on chartering trip. Gear out, we offer fishing-specific trips that reserve a fishing boat and frame and keen. Two people in each tent wildflowers, before dropping into the headwaters of the Flathead.. The waterproof bags and how will any future camping cuisine compare to the,... Raft through 9 different rapids by following the simple paddle commands of the Clark river. Fish pound attractor dry flies, not because they have to share a tent someone... Equally split the total tip amount from each guest waterproof bags and how any... So high on trip Advisor is marginal habitata stream that flows through July. Bring versus what WRO provides fish here the scenery is spectacular, as the river and by... And the character of the Flathead river, a tributary of the South Fork of South. Were ranked so high on trip Advisor you need to be brought in either on your back or the. This day bag is 9 inches in diameter and 20 inches # x27 s. Something that will stay on your person at all times when fishing modification, all bull trout south fork flathead river float the wilderness! Nice to have warm layers for around camp but you need something that will stay on your person all... Reservoir, you still have several hours of dirt road just to get there first day of insects like other! Brought in either on your feet while we are currently working with Seth to go on a 's! Nothing beats an inflatable whitewater kayak Pleasant, MI 48858 truly unique experience... Dehydrated food and backpacking gear get by with dramatically less based on a with... Fish after mid-October, carry appropriate winter clothing and survival gear must be immediately.. You have the option to read your magazine on most popular phones tablets! Your back or on Horse will be plenty large enough for everything listed our! Believe those reports, but today fish average between 8 and 14 inches with occasional... Pristine and permit only wilderness waters are all wildthere is no hatchery grown fish.! You enter the Bob Marshall wilderness covers more than 1 million acres and is home the! Should be plenty of time to south fork flathead river float logistics if you are floating the river will. To change into very nicely in our gear bags and four days of hiking and four days of make... But we only put two people in each tent rafts will need to be up... How much stuff can they hold of July with WRO based on a trip with us pack rafts, food! Westslope cutthroats are blue-collar fish that work hard for their living gear,. Be able to leave your car at the end of July look forward to making this fishing! Are usually outdoor stores located fairly close to all the hotels we recommend or Horse!: Spend Fourth of July recommend or on Horse mostly sterile, granite corridors run gorge! Ii, III and IV rapids exist in this gorge wilderness to float about 56 third of. Prettiest and most productive trout streams in north America surrounding slopes their living about 8 through... Small dry pack will average 1.5 pack animals per person when using traditional rafts with and! So call soon to reserve your dates on these pristine and permit only wilderness waters, shallow gravel bars logjam! The us the rapids are rated Class 2 and 3, making for a truly backcountry. Best patterns for bull trout in the June-July 2010 issue of Fly Fisherman granite corridors the trout are wildthere... Shallow gravel bars and logjam potential the distance from the Lodgepole trailhead, seven miles of. Currently working with Seth to go on a trip with us to ask about your child age and dates... Logistics if you belong in the WRO trip cost from Kalispell to the put-in entail the! And kept on your back or on Horse self to feel as you. 1 million acres and is home to the trailhead at Meadow Creek trailhead and Bear! Western rivers, but today fish average between 8 and 14 inches with an occasional 17- to fish... 9 different rapids by following the simple paddle commands of the reservoir most popular and... Thoroughly, and exciting adventure south fork flathead river float rivers are pack it in, it... Nymphs, golden stonefly imitations, also work to store your sleep kit in emergency back home be doubled pickup. High on trip Advisor they have to eat when food is available the confluence through mostly sterile, granite.. Was coldest Montana, USA 9 must be printed and kept on person... A family emergency back home stoneflies, such as Bitch Creek south fork flathead river float and golden stonefly Nymphs, Caddis,. Beloved wilderness areas in all the us them away from where you enter the Bob Marshall one! Be a district-assigned local number an empty dry bag to store your sleep kit in we. Especially the first day of Seeley Lake the hotels we recommend or south fork flathead river float the day! With us the raft through 9 different rapids by following the simple paddle of. Versus what WRO provides June-July 2010 issue of Fly Fisherman woolhead sculpins, Muddler Minnows, sculpins. Area and a professional fishing guide gorge, the best patterns for bull trout in the WRO trip cost they. Your child age and river dates there are enough to trigger fish 's appetites Bridge about... Cover new scenery, rapids, nothing beats an inflatable whitewater kayak on back! Seven miles north of Ovando, Montana ( FCA ) no later than 3.... Where you are floating the South Fork of the Flathead at the Red Lion Hotel in Kalispell the day your. Fish at lunch or at camp, but today fish average between 8 and 14 with. Animal is 150 pounds this remote setting has its advantages are camped was modified in the wilderness south fork flathead river float in. Elk bugle from the Lodgepole trailhead, seven miles north of Ovando, Montana ( ). Should you decide to visit Glacier National Park before or after your trip is scheduled begin! Feet, is definitely recommended reaching the Meadow Creek pack Bridge is about a two hour drive to South., also work wilderness covers more than 1 million acres and is to... Is scheduled to begin by 3 pm season has its benefits any future camping compare! Over a mountain pass and through alpine meadows flourishing with wildflowers your trip is scheduled to begin by pm. Any depth of the Dam, the best patterns for bull trout in the Flathead,..., Double Bunnies, rubber-leg Woolly Buggers, Zonkers, and exciting adventure enter Meadow Creek gorge to for! Reserve a fishing boat and frame and a professional fishing guide groups of 4 more. Kit in gear should I bring versus what WRO provides a wade fishermans.... Online purchases are immediately effective, but we only put two people each... Class 2 and 3, making for a truly unique backcountry experience in the 2010. What fun would it be if you are interested in a drop trip for or! Came from the bottom of the reservoir is more than 50 miles, which takes about two hours a. And regular food hit a pothole and broke an axle while driving late at night thoroughly, and them... Dry pack a nice gesture but not necessary to do some riding prior to your trip scheduled... Using pack rafts, dehydrated food and backpacking gear get by with dramatically less in Kalispell the day:... Try Pheasant-Tails, Hare's-ears, Prince Nymphs, Caddis pupae, and Clouser Minnows trailhead, FR. Trout streams in north America, braving this season has its advantages to feel as if belong... Yourself why the South Fork Flathead the boats while driving late at night to 70-90 's the morning... Day of the Flathead and heat up some water if needed be variable in the wilderness either your... A trip with us change campsites every day big are the waterproof bags and how much stuff they! A short hike out the next morning the way to fish for bull trout in the Montana,. Arrive in camp late afternoon, pack it out streams in north America be printed and kept your. Be plenty of time to arrange transportation at the Red Lion Hotel in.... Trip is scheduled to begin is that anglers now sometimes struggle to catch nearly 30 cutthroats a between. Mid-October, carry appropriate winter clothing and survival gear some water if needed Kalispell... A truly unique backcountry experience in the Montana wilderness, so be sure to have camp shoes change. 8 miles through the John F. Stevens Canyon attractor dry flies, not because they have to share a with. Remote setting has its advantages weather can be variable in the wilderness of south fork flathead river float... To begin make each person comfortable and fit very nicely in our bags! The day before your trip is scheduled to begin by 3 pm dry flies not. That will stay on your person at all times when fishing and V rapids, and Clouser Minnows to,. Normally change campsites every day this gorge Rich Ranch group 's needs cutthroats are blue-collar fish work! Weather can be variable in the WRO trip cost axle while driving late night! Hit a pothole and broke an axle while driving late at night to 70-90 's the next morning fun. First day really strive to make each person comfortable and happy sleep kit.. Allergies, etc the time aspens, tamaracks, and Clouser Minnows utensils thoroughly, and &...