Any fish you catch while in the wilderness area will have to be eaten there. We start the trip with a two-day ride (or hike) through spectacular scenery through the Bob Marshall wilderness to access the starting point of the float, then spend five days fly-fishing some of the most pristine water in Montana. Day Before: Travel to Kalispell, Montana (FCA) no later than 3 pm. 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. 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. 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. The scenery is spectacular, as the river flows through a pristine and remote wilderness. If it is a non-fishing adventure style trip, we will be paddling the entire trip. From the Rich Ranch, well get an early start for our drive to the Pyramid or Holland Lake trailhead. Montana also has the option to purchase a fishing license just for the time you are on the river. Enjoy an exciting half-day Glacier National Park whitewater rafting trip on the middle fork section of the Flathead River. From this point, you can float another 18 scenic miles to Hungry Horse Reservoir. Since the fishing pressure is low, the trout arent horribly picky about what they will take. Can WRO accommodate dietary restrictions/ allergies? 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. The gorge itself is very beautiful with a trail along the river, so the whitewater is optional. Call 1.406.888.5454 to Book. On one of our trips last summer three people fishing the same hole each caught 20 fish in under an hour! Examples in Kalispell include Sportsman's Warehouse, REI, or Cabellas. While most of our other trips can get to the put-in at the river by vehicle, we must use packing outfitters to break down all of our river and personal gear to be packed in by a mule string. The South Fork of the Flathead is no different from other Western rivers, and you should expect to encounter other anglers and campers and be passed by pack trainsbut it's not the end of the world. WRO operates under special use permits on the Salmon-Challis and Flathead National Forests. Temps for Trout: How to Catch Fish that Behave Hot n Cold, 2021 Fly Fisherman Father's Day Gift Guide, How to Remove Wind Knots and Snarls from Leaders and Tippet, Managing Menhaden: The Most Important Fish in the Sea, Pharmaceutical Pollution Threatens Florida's Shallow-Water Fish, Finding and Catching Trout in Mountain Lakes. Unlike other wilderness floats (such as on the Middle Fork of the Salmon in Idaho), the river is not over-run by rafting parties, since the only way to put a raft into the South Fork of the Flathead is by packing it in. The whitewater is thrilling with a series of class III and IV+ whitewater. However, if youre not, heres something else to consider before putting that trout into the frying pan. For those who seek it, the Bob is a wonderful place to find solitude, especially in the areas away from the better-known areas such as the Chinese Wall. From the Rich Ranch, well get an early start for our drive to the Pyramid or Holland Lake trailhead. For most trips, sneakers or a lightweight hiking boot will be fine for side hikes. It's a long journey to get there. Operating in the Bob Marshall Wilderness since 1932. What fishing gear should I bring versus what WRO provides? We provide deluxe, self-inflating basecamp Therm-a-rest pads. *This story was originally titled "Glacier's Borderlands: Do-it-yourself adventures on the North and Middle forks of the Flathead.". We often have dinner together, and you will spend this first night at the Rich Ranch lodging. Belly; Big Hole; Lower Clark Fork; South Fork Flathead; Swan: NE: 1895: 1992: 6: . The final night is a celebration of our amazing adventure around a roaring campfire. 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. Please be mindful of this when planning your gear for the trip. Prior to this modification, all water released came from the bottom of the dam where the water was coldest. In addition to guided fly fishing, we offer drop float trips on the South Fork of the Flathead River. 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. You are welcome to bring your own sleeping gear if you wish, but if you do, please bring your own complete sleep kit and let us know ahead of time. Rafts typically take one and a half pack animals, two rafts take three pack animals, and max load weight per pack animal is 150lbs. However, the Bob is not like most other wilderness complexes, which you can simply hike across in a day or two. Seldom does a particular hatch demand a specific imitation. Kalispell and Whitefish have limited taxi options like Uber or Lyft, so if you dont have a vehicle, staying in the recommended lodging is especially convenient. And not a single service will be found, so bring whatever you need, as you wont be able to buy something if you forget it. Weather can be variable in the Montana wilderness, so be sure to have warm layers for around camp. The narrow, limestone gorge allows only paddle boats on this section of the river and for six miles the water crashes through a series of class III to V rapids (this section is optional). How, where, and when do we get our fishing licenses? For most trips you will need two pairs of shoes, one to wear in the boats and one to wear hiking and around camp. The Bonefish & Tarpon Trust's Dr. Ross Boucek explains what pharmaceutical and chemical runoff and pollution could mean for Florida's shallow-saltwater gamefish. If we say we want to paddle on a paddle boat, are we committed to paddling the entire trip? Fine-spotted Snake River cutthroat from Wyoming were stocked in Arkansas in 1984 (Robison and Buchanan 1988). 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). August 12th-17th: Dreamy Late Season on the Middle Fork. This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. Chartered trips must pay for the entire slot to reserve the trip, which minimum number of guests vary depending on the river you are interested in. Email: [emailprotected] Summer temperatures in Montana can fluctuate dramatically in a 24-hour period, from freezing at night to 70-90's the next afternoon. 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. On our adventure South Fork trips, we use a mix of paddle rafts and inflatable kayaks; some people can try different boat options. Please be mindful of this when making up your gear for the trip. You are welcome to stay wherever youd like as long as you are at 1) orientation the evening before your trip and 2) your trips designated pickup location ready for departure the morning your trip begins. Learn to tie the versatile Hare's Ear with master tier Charlie Craven. Paiute (Moyle 1976a), Yellowstone (Dill and Cordone . Old running sneakers can also work well as river shoes. Most people enjoy wearing water shoes or sturdy sandals with an ankle strap (popular options include Chacos, Tevas, and Keens). Breakfasts consist of a combination of grains, vegetables, eggs, and breakfast meats, and dinners consist of culinary delights such as wild salmon and steak, many of which are cooked over open campfires and dutch ovens. 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 . Pretty much any caddis fly or mayfly imitation in size 10-14 works just fine. The drive back to Kalispell is about 3 hours. WRO provides ample snacks as well as plenty of drinking water, fruit juices, and coffee, tea, and cream in the morning. ADDITIONAL SUGGESTIONS FOR HORSE PACK TRIPS. Another access is near Holland Lake. 2023 Outdoor Sportsman Group. It is about a two hour drive to the Rich Ranch. If staying in Kalispell the night your trip takes off, we recommend making your reservations at the. Lunches are a combination of tasty salads, sandwiches, fruits, and assorted snacks. 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. The South Fork is marginal habitata stream that flows through mostly sterile, granite corridors. 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. *Itinerary and route to river is subject to change based on the desired hiking and whitewater interest of the group. In addition to the large waterproof bag issued for packing clothing and camp items, everyone is also issued a smaller day bag to carry items you will need access to while on the river (sunscreen, camera, extra layer, rain gear, etc.). For the Meadow Creek Gorge section, it is intense, exciting whitewater, and depending on the weather, you will probably want to consider having extra layers and splash gear. Each fishing boat will carry one or two fishermen with a professional fishing guide and a fishing-specific standing frame. But there are few places that are as remote or offer such a unique experience. The South Fork of the Flathead trip begins and ends in Kalispell, Montana (FCA). 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. The result is that anglers now sometimes struggle to catch fish that are small enough to keep. Lunches are a combination of tasty salads, sandwiches, fruits, and assorted snacks. It appeared in the June-July 2010 issue of Fly Fisherman. (What you will eventually pack into your river day bag. The South Fork only flows for 5 miles below Hungry Horse Dam before the river ends at the confluence of the Flathead River. Casual, comfortable athletic clothing, hiking shoes, hat and light jacket. South Fork Flathead River upstream from Hungry Horse Reservoir. This is a 2 day ride to the South Fork. We usually start floating when the sun hits the water each day and arrive in camp late afternoon. We are located under the giant log arch on the south side of US Highway 2, 1/2 mile west of West Glacier. It is about a two hour drive to the Rich Ranch. This allows us to cover new scenery, rapids, and side adventures each day at a fun, comfortable pace. You will head to the trail the next morning (the official starting date of your trip) and start the hike or pack in. It's a long haul with more time spent in the saddle or on your feet than on the water. What a fabulously memorable trip!!! We generally suggest 12 years old as a minimum for this particular trip due to the length of the hike/ trail ride and the possibility of running Meadow Creek Gorge. Phones can be placed in a ziploc bag or water proof case and put in your day bag if you would like to have it accessible for taking pictures during the day. Will it be cold? You will be responsible for the cost of lodging and dinner here that is not included in the WRO trip cost. We are currently working with Seth to go on a trip to the South Fork of the Flathead at the end of July. In addition to guided fishing trips, we offer drop & float trips on the South Fork of the Flathead River. The trail (TR 80) parallels the east bank of the river to Black Bear Creek. The trail includes clear mountain lakes and a high mountain pass surrounded by majestic snowy peaks and lush green valleys. We offer brands like Mountain Hardware, North Face, and Sierra Designs. What happens if someone gets sick or injured? Overnight bags and sleep kits will be available on the trail the first night. Six Montana paddlers took a five day backpacking and packrafting trip into the Bob Marshall Wilderness to float about 56 . East of Hungry Horse Reservoir and South Fork Flathead River lies the drainage basin of the Middle Fork River. Sleeping pads and heavily insulated sleeping bags make life easier. 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. Upon reaching the Meadow Creek Pack Bridge, it is a short hike into the wilderness. We bring oar boats, paddle boats, and at lower water, inflatable kayaks. The South Fork Flathead is one of the most beautiful and productive trout streams in North America. Anglers can access the lower South Fork by foot or horseback via the Meadow Creek Trailhead. 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. We can have it ready for you to purchase or rent when you arrive. The drop float service is a one way service. Carry mottled sculpins, Muddler Minnows, woolhead sculpins, Double Bunnies, rubber-leg Woolly Buggers, Zonkers, and Clouser Minnows. What kind of footwear should I bring? Just when your feet are getting a bit heavy, we reach the cool, clear waters of the South Fork. Just got off the South Fork of the Flathead with WRO. There is the option to add a fishing boat for an additional fee, fishing boats are booked for two people. Explore all WRO trips on our interactive map . What will temperatures and weather be like? Drop float trips begin at the Monture trailhead, seven miles north of Ovando, Montana. 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. After meeting your trip leader and the other guests, we will drive as a group from Kalispell to the Rich Ranch, which is about a two hour drive. The fishing in this stretch, however, has a chance to become a much better fishery in the years ahead. Please contact us if you have any questions. Hike past pristine mountain lakes and snow-covered peaks. 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. If you are not interested in that option but still want to walk and wade, you most definitely can bring your fishing stuff! Quick-dry clothing, layers, and sun protection are the most important things to keep in mind. With this modificationt, the dam now releases water that has the same temperature as the Flathead River five miles downstream. It depends on the time of year, and on the child. Lastly, the trail through Pyramid Pass (TR 416) connects to a trail that follows Youngs Creek (TR 283, 141, and 125) to the junction of Danaher Creek. The South Fork of the Flathead River is Montanas crown jewel in terms of remote rivers. To even contemplate going through this gorge will require a very small, tough raft, whitewater inflatable kayak or hard shell kayak, as any large raft is quite likely to get frequently stuck and require countless portages. A quality tent, rain gear, current map, compass, GPS, first-aid kit, and water filtration system are crucial. Nothing ruins a trip as quickly as a visit from an aggressive bear, and a camp with scraps of food strewn about invites disaster. Extend your river adventure with three to four days of North Fork Flathead River Rafting. Big and plenty, these native fish average 12-20 inches. The South Fork of the Flathead is by all accounts one of the world's premier rivers. The Flathead River itself is over 200 miles long from its northernmost point to where it meets the Clark Fork River northwest of Missoula. The best patterns for bull trout represent sculpins and cutthroat trout. Fortunately, bull trout are present throughout the system in the summer. Several guide services located around the Bob provide packing services, and can pack in gear for the floaters without a horse. 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. n/a. Sign up for our email newsletter for great articles, tips and news from our adventures. A variety of car rentals are available should you decide to visit Glacier National Park before or after your trip. The rugged area includes the landscapes of Glacier National Park and the Bob Marshall and Great Bear Wilderness areas. On the day of the trip please separate everything except the few items you will take with you on horseback. For the first few days of the trip, the water meanders lazily through a sweeping glacial valley and grand Ponderosa Pines. The wilderness mountain settings, clear waters, campfires, wilderness lakes and streams, and superb fishing will wash away worldly cares. How long will we be floating on the river each day? Comfort is essential to having fun! Floating the South Fork of the Flathead River is perhaps one of the finest floats anyone can do in the lower 48. Aug 15, 2019. We try to arrive back to Kalispell late afternoon on the last day of your trip if running the gorge, but will typically arrive closer to early evening if hiking out, as you are dealing with additional logistic factors. 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. Westslope cutthroats are blue-collar fish that work hard for their living. Our South Fork Flathead fishing trips allow for the reservation of small fishing-frame rafts that fit two people and a fishing guide. It is also one of the wildest, beginning in the Great Bear Wilderness just south of Glacier National Park. 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). From this point it's approximately three miles to the Meadow Creek Trailhead. You are welcome to bring your own sleeping gear if you wish, but if you do, please bring your own complete sleep kit and let us know ahead of time. It has both whitewater and flat water sections. 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. The most popular place to start a backcountry South Fork float trip is at the confluence of the Young's and Danaher rivers. And the pack in is neither quick nor easyany pack in requires covering at least 25 miles or more of mountainous terrain. Day 1: We will make packed lunches at the Rich Ranch. Please do not make tip checks out to Wilderness River Outfitters. We will make lunch for the trail, and after a short drive to the trailhead in the morning we will be on our way. Face and body wipes also work well for helping stay clean. Learn to tie the Pheasant Tail Nymph with master tier Charlie Craven. Most of our tents are high-quality three-person tents, but we only put two people in each tent. Hikers and horse riders can follow a trail (TR 110) to Big Salmon Lake and its outlet into the South Fork. While on the river you will get wet going through rapids (what fun would it be if you didnt?!). Weather is highly changeable, with summer snows not uncommon. To get started, click the link below to visit mymagnow.com and learn how to access your digital magazine. For more information, check out our "Sample Menu" page and "WRO Garden" page. Delta, Alaska/Horizon, United, Allegiant, Frontier and US Airways offer flights into Glacier International Airport (GPI). Quick-dry clothing, layers, and sun protection are the most important things to keep in mind. 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. There are many beautiful places in the US that don't see lots of visitors and are best experienced with guides who know the place and can help you make the most of being somewhere so special. 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. These are very comfortable and fit very nicely in our gear bags. With no roads or airstrips, everything is horse-packed to the put inits the real Montana experience! 0. Is there an option for a trip for only my group? The wilderness mountain settings, clear waters, campfires, wilderness lakes and streams, and superb fishing will wash away worldly cares. 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. People using pack rafts, dehydrated food and backpacking gear get by with dramatically less. As this is a pack-in trip, we highly recommend limiting your personal gear to 25-30 pounds, and leaving non-essential items at home. The Middle Fork Flathead River is one of Montana's premier whitewater rivers. They will not pamper you but will instead tease out your best self to feel as if you belong in the wilderness. 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