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. Carry mottled sculpins, Muddler Minnows, woolhead sculpins, Double Bunnies, rubber-leg Woolly Buggers, Zonkers, and Clouser Minnows. A quality tent, rain gear, current map, compass, GPS, first-aid kit, and water filtration system are crucial. 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). We do not provide soda or alcohol, except for one night which is a fiesta night in which we provide drinks. Catching a South Fork bull trout will be a lasting memory for any fisherman. If you are interested in a drop trip for camping or backpacking, the cost would be doubled for pickup and return. We will camp the final night above the Meadow Creek Gorge to prepare for our short hike out the next morning. We will need to have our gear ready that evening or very early the next morning (especially if youve chosen to use horse support). Storms can also roll in unexpectedly, and its best to be prepared for anything. If driving, you will be able to leave your car at the Kalispell airport. The South Fork of the Flathead is known in the fly fishing world as the Mecca for dry-fly cutthroat fishing. This day bag is 9 inches in diameter and 20 inches tall. Jim Klug photo. If you need help finding an outfitter to help pack you out at your take out, we can provide you with some recommendations. A great section can be fly fished above and below Tin Shanty Road bridge. Learn to tie Barr's Damsel with master tier Charlie Craven. 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. The gorge itself is very beautiful with a trail along the river, so the whitewater is optional. The Bob is not a National Park, where a traveler is likely to bump into countless hordes of people wandering its trails. Synthetic materials are lightweight and dry much quicker than cotton. What if there is a family emergency back home? Hike past pristine mountain lakes and snow-covered peaks. 2023 Outdoor Sportsman Group. 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. While on the river you will get wet going through rapids (what fun would it be if you didnt?!). 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. With no roads or airstrips, everything is horse-packed to the put inits the real Montana experience! We will provide transportation from Kalispell to the Rich Ranch the day before your trip is scheduled to begin. WRO operates under special use permits on the Salmon-Challis and Flathead National Forests. The fishing we will do is primarily inside of our fishing rafts, and you will not need waders. Yes, we will store your extra bags and make arrangements for them to be transported to meet you at the end of the trip. On Newstands March 3rd! August 12th-17th: Dreamy Late Season on the Middle Fork. If staging in Kalispell after your trip, we recommend making your reservations at the Red Lion Hotel (1-800-547-8010) or Travelodge (1-406-755-6123) in Kalispell. If driving, you will be able to leave your car at the Red Lion Hotel in Kalispell. Groups of 4 or more will average 1.5 pack animals per person when using traditional rafts with frames and regular food. Scale 1:63,360 (1"=1 mile), 100-foot contours. Most of our tents are high-quality three-person tents, but we only put two people in each tent. Seth has been personally involved in this trip because it is a custom deal, mostly because we wanted to take another trip with WRO, but really are not fishermen-and this is usually a fishing trip. 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. One day of the South Forks whitewater is enough adrenaline for the whole trip! Spey fishing is a unique way to fish for bull trout in the Flathead. After the trip: Lakestream in Whitefish and Larrys Fly Shop in Columbia Falls are good local fly shops to go to beforehand, and a few more limited sport stores like Sportsman's Warehouse and Cabellas in Kalispell. Learn to tie the Woolly Bugger fly with master tier Charlie Craven. Wonderful, gourmet backcountry cooking! Summer temperatures in Montana can fluctuate dramatically in a 24-hour period, from freezing at night to 70-90's the next afternoon. In addition, fall brings spruce moths to the water. For example a group of 10 going in and they will only be using 2 pack animals for all 10. The result is that anglers now sometimes struggle to catch fish that are small enough to keep. We offer brands like Mountain Hardware, North Face, and Sierra Designs. How big are the tents? Additionally, from Meadow Creek Pack Bridge (near the wilderness area boundary) down to Spotted Bear footbridge, it is all catch and release and only artificial lures may be used. Anglers can access the lower South Fork by foot or horseback via the Meadow Creek Trailhead. Hopper patterns, chubby trinobles, purple haze, parachute adams, humpies, ants, beetles, and general terrestrial patterns are popular flies in this region. 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. 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. Explore all WRO trips on our interactive map . 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. Day 5-6: Well be rafting the calm and beautiful upper South Fork, floating around lazy corners and casting along undercut banks. 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. The South Fork Flathead is one of the most beautiful and productive trout streams in North America. Means of Introduction: This species has been intentionally stocked as a sport fish in most areas. Thanks to Seth, Sarah, Vince and Tyler for an unforgettable adventure. 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. We often have dinner together, and you will spend this first night at the Rich Ranch lodging. 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. Day 8: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. Four days of hiking and four days of rafting make for a truly unique backcountry experience in the wilderness of Montana. Unlike trout in fertile tailwater and meadow streams, they endure the nuances of high and low flows. Lunches are a combination of tasty salads, sandwiches, fruits, and assorted snacks. I already miss them. Some exceptions might be considered based on a child's experience with multi-day camping, hiking, horseback riding and rafting. 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 . Evacuation plans are in place for each trip in case of an emergency, and a satellite communication device is carried at all times. Delta, Alaska/Horizon, United, Allegiant, Frontier and US Airways offer flights into Glacier International Airport (GPI). Pretty much any caddis fly or mayfly imitation in size 10-14 works just fine. Others are disappointed by the size of the fish they're catching and blame increased pressure and catch-and-release mortality on the decline. Healthy and nutritious options are always available, and meals always include fruits and vegetables (sourced locally when we can). August 12th-17th: Dreamy Late Season on the Middle Fork. Online purchases are immediately effective, but must be printed and kept on your person at all times when fishing. The three forks offer opportunities for day floats from vehicle accessed sites, thrilling whitewater stretches, and permitted guided trips for day and overnight experiences. Your river and/or hiking clothes can double as camp clothes, but you are welcome to bring something else if you would like, such as a cotton shirt, an athletic dress/skirt for women, dry pants, layers or some fiesta-wear. How, where, and when do we get our fishing licenses? In certain cases, individuals may want to supplement meals and snacks with some items of their own. The South Fork is one of the few places in Montana where anglers can legally target bull trout (char). We will make lunch for the trail, and after a short drive to the trailhead in the morning we will be on our way. Sleeping pads and heavily insulated sleeping bags make life easier. Please check your entries and try again. It is helpful but not necessary to do some riding prior to your trip. If there is an odd number in your group we will not make you share a tent with a stranger. A safe time frame to fish the river is between July 15 and October 15. Guests are welcome to camp at the trailhead or stay at the Blackfoot Motel in Ovando. S F Flathead R ab Twin C nr Hungry Horse MT. The South Fork of the Flathead is known in the fly fishing world as the mecca for dry-fly cutthroat trout fishing. How will I keep my phone/camera/other valuable items safe from the elements? To reach this section of the river, though, requires going down a rather steep and hazardous put-in at the dam. What kind of footwear should I bring? From this point, you can float another 18 scenic miles to Hungry Horse Reservoir. The Bob Marshall is one of the most beautiful and beloved wilderness areas in all the US. If possible, we recommend bringing hard alcohol packed in non-glass containers, or bagged wine. 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. In addition to guided fishing trips, we offer drop & float trips on the South Fork of the Flathead River. 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. You should arrive in Kalispell the day before your trip is scheduled to begin by 3 pm. The drive back to Kalispell is about 3 hours. So the moral of the story is this: If you cook any fish while camped in the wilderness area, make sure you cook them well away from where youre camping (like hundreds of yards). If possible, long duffle bags are preferred for packing gear in. Healthy and nutritious options are always available, and meals always include fruits and vegetables (sourced locally when we can). It is also nice to have camp shoes to change into. Phone: (406) 677-2317 Montana also has the option to purchase a fishing license just for the time you are on the river. However, if you want to match the South Fork's hatches, expect to see a smattering of Pale Morning Duns, caddis, and stoneflies. Email: [emailprotected] This dry fly can be tied to match any mayfly. They say anglers used to catch nearly 30 cutthroats a day between 15 and 20 inches. The fishing is frosting on an already tasty cake. Website: richranch.com. Something went wrong. 1 of 2. We will have lunch on the trail that is pre-packed in the morning, and camp on the trail the first night after around 16 miles. 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. People using pack rafts, dehydrated food and backpacking gear get by with dramatically less. We like to maintain a flexible schedule. During July, the South Fork is one of the only rivers in America where you can target bull trout. Please notify us of any dietary restrictions or allergies as early as possible so that we can adjust the menu accordingly. Lakestream in Whitefish and Larrys Fly Shop in Columbia Falls are good local fly shops to go to beforehand, and a few more limited sport stores like Sportsman's Warehouse and Cabellas in Kalispell. On our adventure South Fork trips, we use a mix of paddle rafts and inflatable kayaks; some people can try different boat options. WRO operates under National Park Service contract in Glacier Bay. We will have lunch on the trail and camp on the trail the first night after about 16 miles. Day Before: Travel to Kalispell, Montana (FCA) no later than 3 pm. 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. Yes, we do normally change campsites every day. With this modificationt, the dam now releases water that has the same temperature as the Flathead River five miles downstream. Your trip leader will put on an orientation around 6 pm at the Rich Ranch. It's pristine. If you are bringing a large, expensive camera, we recommend you bring a hard waterproof case in which to store it and accessories. WRO met them in every way! On the other hand, if you are an experienced fisherman, they will put you in the right spot and let you do your thing! Westslope cutthroats are blue-collar fish that work hard for their living. 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. 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. 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. It is about a two hour drive to the Rich Ranch. 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. To help boost the average size of fish, the portion of the South Fork inside the wilderness boundary is strictly regulated and anglers may keep up to three trout a day smaller than 12 inches. From this point it's approximately three miles to the Meadow Creek Trailhead. 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. WRO met them in every way! Aug 15, 2019. | A variety of car rentals are available should you decide to visit Glacier National Park before or after your trip. 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. Please be mindful of this when making up your gear for the trip. To get started, click the link below to visit mymagnow.com and learn how to access your digital magazine. Casual, comfortable athletic clothing, hiking shoes, hat and light jacket. Is there somewhere to purchase last-minute items before the trip? Explore Scenic Floats Multi-Day Rafting Trips Set off on the ultimate whitewater experience down the Middle Fork or North Fork of the Flathead River. For most trips you will need two pairs of shoes, one to wear in the boats and one to wear hiking and around camp. We love our trips with this company! Can I bring my own sleeping pad/bag/tent/other gear? They will need to be made out to the guide or to cash. If you need assistance, were happy to help and always show you how the gear works. 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. 11. Upon reaching the Meadow Creek Pack Bridge, it is a short hike into the wilderness. Just got off the South Fork of the Flathead with WRO. Being in shape for riding will make your ride more enjoyable, especially the first day. The run through the gorge is dependent on the river level, the gorge being clear of logjams and guide discretion. How do the bathroom systems work on the trip? We have experience working with vegetarian, vegan, dairy-free, gluten-free, nut allergies, etc. Rich Ranch Feel the exhilaration of puckering whitewater rushing through a narrow gorge. Manoeuvre the raft through 9 different rapids by following the simple paddle commands of the guide. Join Morgan Ray and John Fraley as they get into some of the wildlife details in My Wilderness Life. 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. I highly recommend them! We are currently working with Seth to go on a trip to the South Fork of the Flathead at the end of July. Please contact our office ahead of time to arrange logistics if you need to be picked up. South Fork Flathead River. June 30- July 5th: Spend Fourth of July with WRO! 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). We offer brands like Mountain Hardware, North Face, and Sierra Designs. With the hood down, the vehicle is a prime target for packrats. The Middle Fork runs for approximately 92 miles and forms the southwestern boundary of Glacier National Park. 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 Camped out along the South Fork Flathead River. Backpacking, Horseback Riding, Rafting, Wildlife, Fishing, Hiking. River in Flathead NF, Bob Marshall Wilderness, Rocky Mountains in Hungry Horse, MT. 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. South Fork of the Flathead Explore the Heart of Montana's Bob Marshall Wilderness Overview Hike past pristine mountain lakes and snow-covered peaks. Below the dam, the South Fork flows for 5 miles before entering the Flathead River just downstream from the town of Hungry Horse. The Flathead River represents the combined flow of hundreds of headwater creeks funneled from the glacial cirques of Glacier National Park and other wild places within the U.S. and Canada. The South Fork of the Flathead is by all accounts one of the world's premier rivers. We can have it ready for you to purchase or rent when you arrive. The South Fork of the Flathead is known in the fly fishing world as the mecca for dry-fly cutthroat trout fishing. The South Fork is marginal habitata stream that flows through mostly sterile, granite corridors. The rapids are rated class 2 and 3, making for a fun and . 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. 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. 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. I spell all of this out in the contract as well. 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. Yes, there are usually outdoor stores located fairly close to all the hotels we recommend or on the way to the river. For the first few days of the trip, the water meanders lazily through a sweeping glacial valley and grand Ponderosa Pines. This north-northwest trending river is about 98 miles (158 km) long, making it the second longest tributary of the Flathead River. With near freezing water no longer flowing through the river during the middle of the summer, insect hatches have improved significantly on both the South Fork and the main stem of the Flathead River. The scenery on the ride portion of the trip is spectacular. n/a. The initial climb is moderately steep, making this route more suited for horses, but once through the pass, the trip to the river is scenic and enjoyable. Be aware of your black and grizzly bear neighbors when camping. If true wilderness and the best native Westslope Cutthroat fishing in the lower 48 interests you, then we have the trip youre looking for! If flows are not right for the gorge or clients do not wish to run it, we will camp the final night above the gorge. 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. Hikers and horse riders can follow a trail (TR 110) to Big Salmon Lake and its outlet into the South Fork. They also keep you warmer when wet. The nose-diving U.S. economy has persuaded many families in recent years to put costly and exotic vacation plans on hold . ADDITIONAL SUGGESTIONS FOR HORSE PACK TRIPS. After unloading the mules that pack the gear out, we will meet the vehicles and WRO will provide transportation back to Kalispell. The trip winds about 8 miles through the John F. Stevens Canyon. 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. Occasionally hiking members can pack a few beers on their personal backpack, but one can imagine we need to keep these quantities limited. Paiute (Moyle 1976a), Yellowstone (Dill and Cordone . Please contact us if you have any questions. 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. Just got off the South Fork of the Flathead with WRO. See more reasons why were ranked so high on Trip Advisor . Will it rain? Your wallet & cash should be placed in a Ziplock bag and taken with you on your trip. After unloading the mules that pack the gear out, we will meet the vehicles and WRO will provide transportation back to Kalispell. 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. Explore all WRO trips on our interactive map . 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. Make you share a tent with a trail ( TR 110 ) to Big Lake. Park, where a traveler is likely to bump into countless hordes of people wandering trails. The gear works only rivers in America where you can target bull trout fertile. And a satellite communication device is carried at all times when fishing the Flathead is by all accounts one the... 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