RIVERS

Ruby River Fly Fishing

The Ruby River in Montana is a diverse and productive wild trout fishery, offering a variety of fly-fishing opportunities. On the Upper Ruby, anglers can catch rainbow trout, brown trout, cutthroat trout, cutbows, brook trout, and grayling. This section is known for its dry fly fishing, where anglers primarily use dry-dropper setups and single dry flies. The Upper Ruby is especially productive for numbers, with average fish ranging from 8 to 12 inches, along with the chance to land larger 15- to 20-inch brown trout.

Below the Ruby Dam, the river transitions into a tailwater fishery known as the Lower Ruby. This stretch offers excellent brown trout fishing, along with strong opportunities for rainbow trout and mountain whitefish. Fish on the Lower Ruby tend to be larger, averaging 15 to 18 inches, with consistent chances at 19- to 20-inch trout.

In addition to the main river, several Ruby River tributaries provide classic small-stream, technical fly fishing. These waters challenge anglers with tight casting conditions and reward precise presentations along undercut banks, log structures, and overhanging trees. With the variety of species found throughout the Ruby Valley, anglers can even pursue the “Ruby Grand Slam” by catching all seven species in a single trip.

Beaverhead Poindexter Slough

The Poindexter Slough, an offshoot of the Beaverhead River in southwest Montana, offers a unique spring creek-style fly-fishing experience. This walk-and-wade fishery features clear water, lush weed beds, and deep pools—ideal habitat for large, healthy brown trout.
Anglers can expect technical fishing with consistent opportunities to target Beaverhead brown trout, along with seasonal windows of excellent dry fly fishing. The combination of structure and current creates a rewarding challenge for anglers looking to refine their presentation and water-reading skills.
The Beaverhead River itself is rich in history, named after Beaverhead Rock, a landmark recognized by Sacajawea during the Lewis and Clark Expedition in 1805. Today, the area remains one of Montana’s most respected trout fisheries.

Located approximately 1.5 hours from Upper Canyon Outfitters, Poindexter Slough is a must-fish destination for anglers seeking technical water, trophy brown trout, and classic Montana fly fishing.

Jefferson River Fly Fishing

The Jefferson River in southwest Montana is known for producing quality brown trout over high numbers, making it a top destination for anglers seeking trophy trout. The best fishing conditions typically occur during the early and late season—especially in June and September—when cooler water temperatures improve fish activity.
While the Jefferson can be a challenging fishery, it consistently offers opportunities to land large brown trout, along with productive streamer fishing for aggressive strikes. This is a river where patience and persistence are rewarded with the chance at truly memorable fish.
The Jefferson also stands out for its scenic beauty and diverse landscape, ranging from broad valleys to narrow canyons, much of which remains unchanged since the time of the Lewis and Clark Expedition.

Located approximately one hour from Upper Canyon Outfitters. Due to the river’s structure, depth, and limited access, float trips are the most effective way to fish the Jefferson, and this is how we guide it.

Madison River Fly Fishing

The Madison River in southwest Montana is a true fly fishing mecca and one of the state’s premier blue-ribbon fisheries. It is renowned for its consistent production of brown trout, rainbow trout, and mountain whitefish, offering anglers both numbers and trophy potential.
The Madison is particularly famous for its Salmon Fly hatch, attracting fly anglers from across the country during peak season. Its productive waters and scenic Montana landscapes make it an unforgettable fishing destination.

Located approximately one hour from Upper Canyon Outfitters, the Madison River provides an accessible and rewarding day on the water for anglers seeking world-class Montana trout fishing on a guided float trip.

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