Smith River trips are 60 miles of adventure, floating for five days and camping for four nights. Of 73 commercially permitted trips available each year on the Smith, Lewis & Clark Expeditions is the largest outfitter on the river. This translates into more available and flexible trip dates we can offer our clients. Lewis & Clark Expeditions begins the float season in early May and typically ends the middle of July. The Smith River is a freestone stream with very healthy insect populations.
Anglers have a 50/50 split between rainbow and brown trout with the average size being 13″ (average size for a trout that inhabits a freestone stream). However, there is a very healthy population of trout in the 16–18 inch range and enough 20-inch trout to keep you actively engaged.
Each day, experienced guides float you down a section of the river for a great day of fishing and provide lunch, snacks, and refreshments. At the end of the day, arrive at the camp, where freshly made hors-d'oeuvres, beer, wine, and refreshments await you, followed by a delicious riverside dinner.
They do not provide fly fishing gear in your package price, however, you can borrow loaner rods and reels. You must make gear requests at least two weeks before your trip. Please feel free to bring a couple of your favorite trout outfits.
You fly into Helena and overnight. The next morning, you are transferred to the launch at Camp Baker for the start of the 60-mile float. After each day of fishing, the experienced staff prepares the camp with tents (individual or shared), cots, therma-rest pads, dining table and chairs, and campfires and transports your gear. Solar showers are available. At the end of the float at Eden Bridge, you and your gear will be transferred back to Helena to overnight and prepare for your departing flight the next morning.
4-night/5-day fishing package based on double occupancy/shared guide: $4,800* per person.
*Additional $1,000 for single occupancy/guide
Rates subject to change.
Department Manager
Specializes in South America fishing and shooting departments. Plus, fishing in Mongolia and Canada.
Due to a recent cancellation, we have 4 rods available for the prime launch date of June 13, 2022. These launches are operated by our friends at Lewis and Clark Expeditions, and each launch is limited to just 8 anglers. Due to the nature of the accommodations (shared tent) we will be selling these rods in pairs only. Guests arrive Helena on June 12, Launch on June 13, fish 13, 14, 15, 16, and 17; then take out at the end of day on June ...
The Smith River Float Experience
From a Frontiers Client Perspective