Who is best suited to this destination?
Healing Waters Lodge is ideally suited for anglers of all skill levels. The options for both drift boat floating and walk and wade fishing are easily accessible, allowing anglers to employ a wide range of techniques. Accommodations are comfortable and simple, and meals are warm and plentiful. Because non angling activities are limited, this is truly a fly fishing centered lodge.
Where is the lodge?
The lodge is situated in the heart of Ruby Valley ranch land, about ten minutes from Twin Bridges, Montana.
How do I get there?
Guests fly into Bozeman, Montana and either rent a vehicle or arrange a lodge shuttle transfer. Anglers arriving by private aircraft can fly directly into nearby airports in Twin Bridges or Dillon.
When should I go?
The best insect variety is usually July through August, however this is also the busiest time on the water with other anglers. Guests looking for dry fly fishing should consider pre runoff in May, or late June through early August. The hopper fishing is usually steady through early September, although hot temperatures can greatly affect the fishing in August. Mid-September through early October is a very beautiful time to go, with nymph and streamer fishing picking up as the water cools down.
How will I fish?
Anglers will float or wade two per guide. There are hundreds of miles of fishable water within an hour drive of the lodge and anglers will have access to a variety of rivers throughout the season. Rivers that can be fished include the Jefferson, Beaverhead, Big Hole, and Ruby, as well as Mill Creek and Clear Creek.
Is there wade fishing?
There is wade fishing on private property, and there are rivers that are best accessed by boat with channels and islands to walk up.
Where will I fish?
There are hundreds of miles of fishable water between the Big Hole, Beaverhead, Madison, Jefferson, and Ruby Rivers, as well as Clear Creek and Mill Creek. The guides will take anglers to the places where the conditions are best for fishing.
How long does it take to reach the fishing grounds?
It can take anywhere between ten minutes to an hour to reach the fishing grounds, although most locations can be reached in thirty minutes.
What type(s) of fish will I catch?
There are mostly brown and rainbow trout, although there are some cutthroat and cutbows, as well as grayling and whitefish..
How many fish will I catch?
Ten fish per angler each day is a good expectation to have, this will vary based on the conditions, time of year and fishing method.
Will I see other anglers?
Guests should plan to see other anglers. Guests visiting before June 20th or after September 10th will see fewer other anglers. There are opportunities to fish private water as well where guests may be the only anglers on the river or will be fishing a beat system.
What are the guides like?
The guides are easy going, range in age and are knowledgeable of the area. Most guides will use a dry dropper set up or nymph rig, be sure to discuss your fishing goals with us when booking so we can get you set up with the right guide
What are the physical demands?
There are no physical demands for this trip. Some of the rooms are accessed by stairs, if you need a room without stairs please let us know when booking.
Are there any special skills required?
There are no special skills required.
Does the lodge provide equipment?
The lodge provides all the equipment one may need, they even have jackets and hats for guests to borrow, as well as a selection of clothing to purchase.
What is your favorite setup for the trip?
A 9-foot 5-weight rod is a great tool for this trip, but guests may enjoy fishing a 6-weight for windy conditions or casting larger flies.
What are the top flies?
Guides will provide flies. Throughout the season the flies change often, guests should call before their trip for the best patterns.
What are the options if water conditions become challenging?
There are several different fishing locations, meaning guides have options if one river is experiencing poor fishing conditions. Guests should be prepared to fish in sun, rain, wind, even snow.
What is a typical day like?
Guests will have breakfast at 7:00 AM in the dining room. Guides will meet guests in front of the fly shop at 8:00 AM and depart for their fishing destination. Guests will arrive back at the lodge around 5:00 PM. Wine and beer will be set out at 6:00 PM, and appetizers will be served at 6:30 PM. At this time, the hosts will discuss each guest's fishing location with them for the next day. Dinner is served at 7:00 PM and guests are free to mingle in the lodge afterward or retire to their room.
What is the general vibe, atmosphere, and style of the lodge?
The lodge is very laid back. Cocktail hour and dinner are a social affair and guests are encouraged to mingle. The lodge style is simple, cozy, and quiet.
Is there an on-site owner, manager, or other point-person at the lodge?
The lodge owners and management are always either onsite or only moments away.
Where do we eat, and what are the meals like?
Guests dine in the main lodge at a large dining table. There are separated group seating options available if desired, please let us know in advance so the lodge can prepare. Meals are generally a warm dish starting with a salad, followed by a meat or fish option with a vegetable and grain side. The evening will end with dessert and coffee.
What is the alcohol policy?
Beer and wine are provided by the lodge. Guests who would like cocktails may bring their own liquor to keep in the lodge for cocktail hour and dinner.
Where do we stay, and what are the accommodations like?
There are eight rooms, each one with a unique layout and decor. Three of the rooms are accessed by a flight of stairs, the others are ground level. Seven of the rooms have two queen sized beds, and one room has one king sized bed. Each room has a bathroom, desk, and outdoor sitting area.
Is there internet and/or cell service?
Yes, however the cell signal is not always strong in the area. Wi Fi is available throughout the property.
Are there other activities?
This is a lodge suited best for anglers, there are not many other activities for guests who rather not fish.
Are there any other expenses?
Some of the fishing locations will have a rod fee associated which is payable on site. Other expenses to consider are rental car or shuttle costs to travel to and from the airport, any liquor guests may choose to bring, and guide gratuities.
Do I need a visa?
A visa is not needed for this location.
Are there any health concerns, dangers, or annoyances?
Weather in the Rockies can be unpredictable, and guests are encouraged to bring layers for cool mornings and evenings with an option for lighter clothes during the heat of the day. Rain and snow are a possibility in most months of the year. Wind can be an issue around fall, and in early summer there may be some mosquitoes at boat ramps.
