Floating down the Bighorn River in a McKenzie style drift boat is one of the most pleasurable and relaxing experiences you will ever have. Enjoying the sounds of the river and its surroundings, the views and vistas, and the learning process about the river all combine into one thoroughly fabulous adventure. We haven't even gotten to the fishing yet!
Our season generally begins in March and runs through November. However, fishing is good year round on the Bighorn. The typical day starts off with a great breakfast and a brief discussion of your goals and expectations. We want to give you the best possible experience. Our goals are safety, fun, catching fish, and trying to help people become better anglers by the end of their trip.
Float Trip Rates
1 Angler - $400.00
2 Anglers - $450.00
3 Anglers - $695.00
A typical guide day is 10 hours.
Guide gratuity is not included in the above rates.
Guests occasionally ask for guidance on a reasonable tip for their guide. As with any service, the gratuity should be dependent on the quality of the experience of your day on the water and the guide’s effort. Generally, guide gratuities range upward from 15%.
The drift boat is used to transport you down the river and fish prime locations. Depending on conditions, we do fish from the drift boat at times. Mostly we are wade fishing -- riffles, runs, tail outs and slicks.
Guide trips are geared to the beginner, intermediate or advanced angler, dependant on your level of fly fishing experience. Instruction is provided on where the fish are holding and why, as well as techniques, tactics and the correct presentation to catch them. At lunch time we relax and take a break to eat and enjoy the beauty of the river, swap a few stories, and strategize about the rest of the day.
We then continue downstream to pursue the fish.
All the fish are wild, fast and extremely strong.
We offer our anglers the finest guided fishing experience in Fort Smith.
To make your trip a success, here is a list of what you need to know, and what to bring:
- Weather can be variable depending on the season. You need everything from shorts and t-shirts to fleece wear and heavy winter clothing. Bring plenty of changes of socks.
- Don’t worry if you forget something, you can stop in at the Fort Smith Fly Shop and pick up supplies. Just a few steps from your cabin.
- Alcoholic beverages are not sold on the Reservation. Purchase your beverages before you arrive in Fort Smith.
Fishing Gear
|
| Rods – 4 to 6 weight, 8 1/2 to 9 ft. |
| Reel with a smooth drag |
|
Weight forward floating line
(clean)
|
| Wading Gear |
| Clothing for variable conditions |
| Sunscreen |
| Polarized Sunglasses |
| Hat |
| Rain Gear |
| Insect Repellent |
| Camera and film or spare memory cards |
| Wool or wool blend socks |
Floating down the Bighorn River in a McKenzie style drift boat is one of the most pleasurable and relaxing experiences you will ever have. Enjoying the sounds of the river and its surroundings, the views and vistas, and the learning process about the river all combine into one thoroughly fabulous adventure. We haven't even gotten to the fishing yet!
