| Description: Leaving civilization behind, this 60-mile rafting adventure descends a stunning limestone canyon in Montana's Big Belt Mountains. The Smith River is the only river in Montana where all river travelers must have a permit, and for good reason. The scenery, fishing, birding, archeology, geology and history are arguably some of the best in the lower forty-eight states. While meandering the curves and eddies of the Smith, we will discuss the adventures of Lewis and Clark and the history of the Blackfeet Indians, both of whom sought sustenance in the Smith River ecosystem. Whether you are a birder spotting some of Montana's finest fowl or an angler pulling in a brown trout, the Smith River is an adventure of a lifetime.
Fishing: The Smith River is one of Montana's premiere rainbow and brown trout fisheries. It is known for it's unequaled beauty, outstanding trout habitat and terrific bird life! For serious anglers, we recommend the drift boat option, (two person maximum in a drift boat). Enjoy the sounds of the river as you fish with our experienced guides. Whenever angling new waters, experienced guides are important. Ours are some of the best in Northwest Montana. All equipment and tackle is provided for guests.
Hiking: We usually arrive at the campsite around 4 PM each day so you will have an opportunity to explore around camp or do a short hike while your guides are setting up camp an preparing delicious meals. You can look for wildlife, head up to the canyon rim for a view from above, or explore Native American archeological sites.
Wildlife: This area is known for mountain lion, black bear, bobcat, wolverine, flying squirrel, otter, beaver, mergansers, osprey, belted kingfishers, dippers, killdeer, American redstarts, yellow warblers, ruffed grouse, hawks, owls, common raven, swifts, hummingbirds, pileated woodpeckers, chickadees, Swainson's thrush, varied thrush... the list goes on.
Itinerary:
Day One
We meet in Great Falls and then shuttle to the Camp Baker put-in where our river adventure begins. Today's topics include river safety, general fishing, wilderness preservation, Montana State Parks, and the National Forest Service.
Day Two, Three and Four
We discuss aquatic ecology and fish species as our float continues. Anglers will love the 10 - 20 inch rainbow and brown trout in this spectacular fishery. We will keep our binoculars at hand while checking off the bird species that frequent this migration path.
Day Five
Today's topic is the future of habitat preservation and the use of public lands. We will have our final lunch on the river, say our "fair wells" and return to Great Falls by 5 pm.
What is included: Transportation to and from Great Falls; gourmet meals from our Day One lunch to our Day Five lunch; deluxe camping (including tents, air mattresses, sleeping bags, and camp lounge chairs); and of course, our expert fly fishing guides and their dories.
Special: If you don't want to fish the cost is $1990.00 per person. You'll be enjoying the river rafting in our Hyside brand performance rafts and be entertained by our expert rafting guides.
This trip is a result of our partnership with the Lewis and Clark National Forest, US Forest Service.
This institution is an equal opportunity provider.
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