Missouri Cliff Lodge, Montana

The Missouri River is Montana’s largest tailwater fishery and Missouri Cliffs Lodge overlooks these prolific waters. A series of large reservoirs upstream results in stable flows and water temperatures. As a result of this tailwater effect, anglers will encounter some of the most productive hatches in the northern Rockies, high fish counts and the prospects of larger fish.

Productive hatches and large trout abound

The Missouri River originates near the town of Three Forks, where the Madison, Jefferston and Tallatin join together. The stretch of river that draws anglers from far and wide is that between Wolf Creek and Cascade after it exits a series of large reservoirs. The cold and stable flows generate a productive environment of aquatic insects and crustaceans. This ample food supply helps trout grow fast and the average size in the tailwater reach of the river is between 16 and 17″, with larger fish common. During heavy hatches, trout are often rising across the river and sight casting to surface feeding fish is possible.

Much of the upper river, below Holter Dam, resembles a large spring creek and the glassy currents and abundant weed beds are home to some of the highest trout counts in Montana. Shortly after flowing through the small town of Craig, the river flows into a dramatic canyon lined with tall cliffs. The complex currents here provide plenty of areas to target good concentrations of trout. The river leaves the canyon just upstream of the Pelican access site. Although trout numbers begin to decline in these lower reaches, it is also home to some large trout and some excellent mid-summer hopper fishing. Guests will be greeted by a seasoned lodge team and will enjoy outings on the river with experienced guides. The fishing is mostly from drift boats although there are opportunities to fish outside the boat.

Luxury lodge in dramatic cliff top location

The lodge sits atop a dramatic band of cliffs overlooking the river in the heart of the canyon. Guests will enjoy magnificent river and canyon views from the huge wrap around deck. Centrally located, anglers can easily access the entire reach of the tailwater section of the river. The main lodge has en-suite five guest rooms with an additional en-suite room in the detached guest house. A maximum of 12 anglers can be accommodated at any one time. The main level of the lodge houses the kitchen, a large dining room, seating area and full bar. With an executive chef in charge of the kitchen anglers can be sure of excellent food during their stay.

Superb Montana

The closest airports are Great Falls (40 miles), Helena (50 miles), with Bozeman also an option 140 miles away.