Float Trips

The Nelson clan on Idaho’s Main Salmon. Photo: Brian Gies

Rockies Float Trips

Montana Overnight Float Trips These trips stand out not only for the nature of the waterways, but also for their guides, equipment, work ethic, and remarkable gourmet meals. Clients can select from multi-day overnight trips on the Yellowstone, Madison, Missouri, Blackfoot, Clark’s Fork, and Bitterroot rivers. Honestly, what could be finer than spending the day floating a river, catching wild trout, and then arriving at a fully-prepared camp for a lavish meal of rack of lamb, grass-fed bison, or wild salmon? Rate: $1,650 per person for a 2 night/3 day package

Smith River, Montana One of the most sought-after float trips in the country, the Smith float is a chance for you to leave the rigors of civilization behind and enjoy one of Montana’s most beautiful wild rivers. Towering limestone cliffs, deep pools, fast riffles, abundant wildlife, and fantastic fly fishing for wild browns and rainbows make this the trip of a lifetime. This five-day float covers 61 miles of pristine water in remote country. Rate: $4,800 per person for a 4 night/5 day package

Middle Fork of the Salmon River, Idaho The most prolific and unspoiled westslope cutthroat trout fishery in the world, the Middle Fork of Idaho’s Salmon River offers what many consider the finest multi-day wilderness float trip in America. While the fly fishing is excellent throughout the season, the early season showcases big whitewater while the late season focuses exclusively on the fishing. This is an incredible family trip and is perfect for anglers of all skill levels. Rate: $3,690 per person for a 5 night/6 day fishing package

South Fork Flathead For those looking for great dry fly fishing and a well-rounded wilderness trip complete with rustic camping and horsepacking, this is it. After two days in the saddle, guests will float 33 miles through Montana’s Bob Marshall Wilderness, enjoying great dry fly fishing for westslope cutthroats in the 12- to 18-inch class. Rate: $6,000 per person for a 7 night/6 day package

Black Canyon of the Gunnison River, Colorado A float through the steep-walled Gunnison Gorge is one of the better fly fishing trips in the lower 48. This wilderness area features spectacular scenery, wildlife viewing, and excellent fly fishing for rainbow and brown trout in the 12- to 18-inch class. This troutfilled canyon adventure is a classic not to be missed. Rate: $2,300 plus tax per person for a 4 night/3 day package