Forrester's Bighorn River Resort, MT
Orvis-Endorsed Fly-Fishing Lodge in Fort Smith, Montana.
100% Customer Satisfaction
has been our commitment since 1856. It’s who we are. If you aren’t happy with a product or service, we want to know about it. And we’ll make it right. That’s the Orvis Way.
Nick Forrester
Forrester's Bighorn River Resort
Orvis is pleased to offer our travel customers access to two valuable services: Global Rescue travel membership and IMG Signature Travel Insurance℠.
Learn MoreLodging, Meals, and Accommodations:
Forrester's is a traditional log lodge located on the prime stretch of the famed Bighorn River. Seven individual cabin units with double beds, full-bath and their own personal deck overlooking the river. The meals served are prepared by our internationally trained chef.
Sample of Typical Itinerary
Although we can cater to any size package, our most popular stay is three days and four nights.
3-days fishing & 4-nights lodging - $3,270 per person based on double occupancy rates. Check our website for more package deal options and payment terms.
What is Provided to Customer:
Whether you need all of your fishing equipment provided or just need a few things to get you by, we have a package to cater to all your needs.
What Should Customers Bring?
Seasonal rain gear, sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, hat of your choice, camera to capture the memories. In spring, long-sleeved shirt. In summer, shorts and other warm weather clothing is appropriate.
On-site Activities:
Fly Fishing.
Off-site Activities:
Battle of the Little Bighorn (Custer Battlefield) is a 30-minute drive from the lodge. Other site seeing adventures are abundant in the area. True "Big Sky Country"!
Species You Fish for by Season:
We fish for brown and rainbow trout. Early spring is midge fishing. Late spring, baetis hatch on cloudy days. Mid-summer, pale morning dun hatches as well as hoppers. Early fall is hoppers, caddis and tricos.
Date Range:
With the Bighorn River being a tailwater fishery, we have great fishing all year round. However, our peak season is April 1 through the middle of November.
Region/Terrain Where You Fish:
The Bighorn River has limited stream access, so the preferred choice of fishing is from a drift boat. Our experienced, Orvis-Endorsed Guides will stop at key spots for wade fishing complete with tips of the trade. This river is a tailwater so it is not affected by spring runoff, and can be fished year round. The Bighorn River is very fisherman friendly so whether you are a novice or a pro-angler, this river never disappoints.
Typical Weather by Season:
Spring: mid-March to end of May 50 degrees in the middle of day and 30 degrees at night.
Summer: June 60-70 degrees. July to end of August 80-90 degrees with an occasional afternoon shower to cool things off.
Fall: 60-70 degrees to end of October. November being 50-60 degrees. Water temps around 30 degrees.
Where is the nearest airport?
Billings, Montana (BIL) is our nearest airport, (90 miles one way to the resort). Car rental is the typical transportation to and from our lodge although we can do work with a limo service if requested.