Beginning in May, the world renowned Southfork begins stretching and waking up, eventually swelling into extreme levels. This tells the fish that it is time to feed.
In June, our guide boats head out, and we scout out where the Bull Trouts like to stage before they make the trip to their spawning grounds. Spotted Bear Ranch is one of the only places in the lower 48 that you can legally fish the Bulls.
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Typically 3- and 5-day trips, blending gorgeous float fishing and fantastic walk or wade opportunities. The lodge trips are fully inclusive of your lodging, chef prepared meals, beer and wine, daily maid service and all your guided activities. If you aren’t tired after 8-9 hours of guided fly-fishing, the lodge and cabins are conveniently situated within a 100 yards of the river, so you can always go catch more fish at any time.
If you’re looking for a more rugged and out of the ordinary vacation, our are perfect for you! Camp out in the renowned Montana wilderness. This pack and float expedition takes you into some of the wildest country on earth!
Our trailhead is situated on the edge of the wilderness at the end of a 60-mile dirt road. From there we will travel by horseback along the mainline trail (#80 East Side) of the Southfork River. We will encounter hill climbs, creek crossings, open hill sides with fantastic views, and wide-open meadows along the way.
Camping gear is provided. Tents, cots, sleeping pads, highlines and hay for the horses and campfire meals for the riders. All you need to bring is your riding horse, sleeping bag, a few extra clothes, toiletries and your sense of adventure. A packer and mule string will accompany the trip leaving you free to explore unincumbered by luggage. Small side adventures off the mainline trial are available each day. Be sure to check out Black Bear Cabin and pack bridge high
above the river. On day 2 or 3 a quick trip up to Big Salmon Lake is a must do!
Spotted Bear Ranch 2024 offerings are limited. Contact us today to speak with our staff and reserve your next vacation!
My second trip to Spotted Bear Ranch in two years exceeded all expectations. The water is gin clear, the bull and cutthroat trout fishing was excellent, and the staff is beyond reproach. Chris and his team of guides are a pleasure, and make all of it look very easy. I plan on returning every chance I get.
Verified Customer
Nestled in the woods of Northwest Montana, between the
Bob Marshall Wilderness and Glacier National Park, the
South Fork of the Flathead River is hailed as Montana's
most pristine and secluded river. Offering a pure and
remote experience, anglers can catch numerous wild
cutthroat on a dry fly.
The rustic lodge and guest cabins
provide comfortable amenities, including cozy beds, daily
maid service, and chef-prepared meals, making Spotted
Bear Ranch a haven for those seeking exceptional
hospitality and a remarkable fishing experience.
Many guests choose to rent a
vehicle or one can arrange for
shuttle service from the Kalispell
airport/Whitefish to the Ranch.
Driving time is 2-2 1/2 hours from
the airport or Whitefish. There is
also a flight charter service available that lands on a well-maintained grass airstrip five minutes from the Ranch.
Montana holds a long-standing tradition in fly fishing, our favorite way to target native trout. Our professional Orvis-endorsed guides are willing instructors. It is all spectacularly gorgeous river fishing for native wild trout. We have a blend of walk/wade fishing opportunities and float fishing from 14' self-bailing rafts equipped with seats for the anglers.
We have six comfortable and rustic
guest cabins. Each has a common
room, a front porch and is equipped
with heat and a small refrigerator.
Enjoy five-star meals in the wilderness with locally sourced ingredients. We offer gourmet dinners from an experienced chef. Get ready for perfectly-cooked meats, glazes, and layered desserts made from rare mountain huckleberries. Every night is a
different mouthwatering experience and can be catered to allergen needs.
Summer Solstice Trip - 6/17-6/25 - 6 spots remaining
Mark Lyons Ride 7/12-7/15 - 1 spot remaining
Pentagon Drop Camp 8/2 - 8/6 - FULL
Women in the Wild 8/16-8/20 - 4 spots remaining
Mustang Matt 8/23-8/26 - FULL
BYOH DIY Ultralight Horseback Trip 8/29-9/3 - 2 spots
remaining