Who is best suited to this destination? This lodge is well suited for anyone who is heavily focused on fly fishing. While there are some activities for non-anglers, this place works best for groups primarily interested fishing. Private cabins offer guests privacy to enjoy time away, and the main lodge offers a place for those looking for a more social atmosphere.
Where is the lodge? The location is located in Wise River, MT about two hours west of Bozeman, MT.
How do I get there? Most guests will fly into Bozeman, MT and rent a car for the two hour drive. Butte, MT is much closer, however it has a regional airport with far fewer flights than Bozeman. Missoula, MT is also an option, the drive south will be about two and a half hours.
When should I go? The lodge is open from mid-April through mid-October. For those interested in fishing Rock Creek, late May to early June is the time to go, but be aware that this is also the time when runoff can be high. At this time the river can usually be floated and the salmonfly hatch is usually in full swing. At this time, the fishing can be wonderful, but keep in mind it’s the most popular time to fish these rivers. In July there is a wide variety of dry fly fishing and the daytime temperatures are warm with cool nights. In August, hoppers and spruce moths are the primary hatches. In September, the evenings cool down and the end of the month can be a great time to start looking for hungry brown trout. May and October offer great streamer fishing.
How will I fish? Anglers will fish two per guide both from rafts and on foot. A wide range of techniques will be used depending, season, systems, conditions, and preferences.
Is there wade fishing? Yes, there is plenty. Rock Creek outside of June is best waded, and the Wise River is more like a spring-creek that is easily waded. Complete Fly Fisher has private access to two miles of the Big Hole which is wonderful wading in August. With a little bit of a drive, the Ruby River and some spring creeks outside of Dillon also offer good wading opportunities throughout the season.
Where will I fish? Primary the Big Hole River, but guests might also access Rock Creek, the Wise River, Beaverhead River, Bitterroot River and some spring creeks depending on the conditions and time of year.
How long does it take to reach the fishing grounds? The lodge is located very close to the banks of the Big Hole River with its own dock, so guests take off within minutes. The sections of the river that are fished will vary in travel time but planning on 10- to 30-minutes of travel time is wise. The other rivers will range from 30 minutes away to an hour and 30 minutes away.
What type(s) of fish will I catch? This area is well known for their rainbow trout and brown trout. Brook trout and bull trout are also found in select areas. All fishing is catch and release only.
How many fish will I catch? This will vary based on skills, conditions, and fishing methods, but guests can expect to hook 10 to 15 fish a day each.
Will I see other anglers? Outside of the salmonfly hatch you may see a couple cars at the boat ramps but you won’t be fighting for space on the river. This program offers access to private put-ins and a take-outs at the lodge if wanted, so guests can avoid other boats all together.
What are the guides like? Complete Fly Fisher employs four exclusive full-time guides from the valley and have fished with the lodge for 20+ years. The other guides are from various towns in the surrounding area and all are knowledgeable of the systems in and around the valley. Guides are friendly, excited about their time on the water and vary in age.
What are the physical demands? This trip can be as easy or as physically demanding as the guest would like. With private put-ins and take-outs and minimal drive times to the Big Hole, this is a perfect place for those looking for an easy day on the water. Anglers who want more activity will have hike-in options for cutthroat that will make for a more physical day.
Are there any special skills required? There are no special skills required.
Does the lodge provide equipment? All equipment is provided and included in the rate of your stay. For those who would like to bring their own gear, there is a locker/prep area to store your gear indoors.
What is your favorite setup for the trip? Any medium action 5-weight rod with floating line will do the trick. A 4-weight rod on the smaller creeks can be a lot of fun.
What are the top flies? Salmon flies, Mother’s Day caddis, spruce moths, hoppers, yellow sallies
What are the options if water conditions become challenging? The number of surrounding of rivers make it easy for a last-minute change if conditions in one drainage becomes challenging. Anglers should plan on fishing in all weather, including hot sun, snow, rain and freezing temperatures.
What is a typical day like?
Coffee will be ready by 5:00 AM, and breakfast is made to order, guests can arrive between 6:30 and 7:00 to eat. Depending on the month and temperature, guides will pick up guests at the lodge between 7:30 AM and 9:00 AM. Hotter temperature months will have earlier starts while colder months will have later starts. Guests can stay out as long as desired and are generally arriving back at the lodge between 5:00 PM and 6:00 PM. The bar opens at 5:30 PM, a server will arrive at 6:00 to make cocktails and serve appetizers, and dinner will begin at 7:00 PM.
What is the general vibe, atmosphere and style of the lodge? The lodge is laid back and the atmosphere will match whatever groups are visiting. The main dining area and deck are social places and cocktail hour and dinner tend to be lively.
Is there an on-site owner, manager or other point-person at the lodge? Jim Reilly is the lodge manager and is on site.
Where do we eat, and what are the meals like? Breakfasts are made-to-order and lunch is usually a packed sandwich with salad, chips and a dessert. The chefs are Culinary Institute of America graduates who take pride in offering high quality, creative meals. Dinner is a set menu and with advance notice the chefs can accommodate all dietary restrictions.
What is the alcohol policy?
There is a fully stocked open bar that is included in the trip rate, if guests prefer specific labels they may bring or ship bottles to the lodge.
Where do we stay, and what are the accommodations like? There are six cabins that each come furnished with a king bed or two twin beds with an attached bathroom. One of these cabins has two bedrooms with queen beds and private bathrooms that can be booked on request. All cabins have a screened porch that overlooks the river and are a short walk from the main lodge. In addition to the cabins there are three suites on either end of the lodge which come with either a king bed or two twin beds and large windows overlooking the property. Complete Fly Fisher also has three cabins off the main property and offer a more private experience. These cabins vary in size and work well for small groups who would like more privacy.
Is there internet and/or cell service? There is very strong Wifi in all buildings and most guests will not have cell service.
Are there other activities? Complete Fly Fisher has relationships with golf courses within an hour’s drive and can help arrange tee times. There is also horseback riding nearby, historical tours at Big Hole Battlefield, and trails that offer lovely hikes.
Are there any other expenses? Guests should plan on additional expenses for fishing licenses, airport transportation ($200 roundtrip) or car rental, and gratuities (8-10% for staff and $150 per guide per day)
Do I need a visa? No.
Are there any health concerns, dangers or annoyances? Weather in shoulder seasons can be unpredictable in the Rockies and guests should arrive prepared for sun, snow, rain or wind. Mosquitos can, at times, be persistent at the put-ins or take-outs.
