Wild Scenery, Rugged Adventure, and Big Dry Fly Eats
The Dearborn River offers one of the most unforgettable float fishing experiences in Montana. A wild, rugged tributary of the Missouri, the Dearborn cuts through spectacular canyons and rolling hills before joining the Missouri near Craig.
With remote waters, big stonefly hatches, and wild trout, the Dearborn is a true Montana adventure for anglers willing to chase something off the beaten path.
Limited access, a short float season, and stunning scenery make this river a bucket-list trip — and one you’ll want to fish again and again.
Why Fish the Dearborn River?
The Dearborn River begins high in the Bob Marshall Wilderness and winds southeast through dramatic canyon country. It’s a river of contrasts: technical rapids, deep turquoise pools, winding riffles, and hidden back eddies all packed into one thrilling float.
This is true wilderness fly fishing — no crowds, no highways, no cell service — just you, your guide, and hungry trout.
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Salmonflies and Goldenstones bring big trout to the surface during peak season
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Rainbow, Cutthroat, and Brown Trout are abundant throughout the float
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Unmatched Scenery with towering cliffs and glacier-carved canyons
Full Day Guided Trip
Experience a full-day, 8- to 10-hour guided float trip through the heart of the Dearborn River canyon.
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Cast dry flies all day with minimal technical pressure.
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Perfect for adventurous anglers looking for something different.
$675 — price for 1–2 anglers
Group rates available — contact us for details.
Half Day Guided Trip
Enjoy a half-day, 4-hour guided float trip on the Dearborn River.
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Chase rainbow and brown trout with expert local guides.
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Perfect for beginners and experienced anglers alike.
$500 — price for 1–2 anglers
Group rates available — contact us for details.
Why Book With Us?
We live and breathe Montana fly fishing — and we believe every trip should feel like fishing with a friend who knows every bend of the river.
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15+ years guiding the Missouri, Dearborn, Blackfoot, and Bitterroot Rivers
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Licensed Montana Fishing Outfitter
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Customized trips for beginners, experts, and everyone in between
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Focused on making each day productive, relaxed, and unforgettable
When you book with us, you’re getting more than just a day on the water — you’re getting insider access to one of the finest trout rivers in the world, guided by people who truly love it.
What to Expect on Your Trip
Our Dearborn River fly fishing trips are designed for anglers seeking something wild and memorable. We float the classic canyon section — a roughly 19-mile stretch full of riffles, pools, eddies, and opportunities at quality trout.
This is an active float: steady casting, quick reactions, and soaking in the incredible views. Wade fishing is minimal due to the river’s pace — the boat keeps moving, and so will you.
What’s Included:
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Full-day guided float trip (approximately 8–10 hours)
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Licensed, experienced Montana fly fishing guide
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Rods, reels, flies, and terminal tackle (or bring your favorites)
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Transportation between meeting point and river access
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Cooler stocked with water, sodas, and light snacks
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Streamside lunch available upon request
What You’ll Need for Your Trip
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Montana Fishing License (Required for anyone 12 and older) [Purchase Your MT License Here ➔] https://ols.fwp.mt.gov/
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Guide Gratuity (Cash preferred, tipping is appreciated)
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Appropriate Clothing (Layers recommended — Montana weather changes fast!)
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Sunglasses and Hat (Polarized sunglasses strongly recommended)
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Beverages and Snacks (We provide water, but feel free to bring extras)
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Good Attitude (Let’s make it a great day on the water!)
Best Time to Fish the Dearborn River
Late May – Mid June: The Prime Window
The Dearborn’s float season is short but sweet, usually from mid-May to mid-June. Timing is everything — flows must be perfect for a safe and productive float.
When the river is right, it’s magic. Stoneflies hatch thick, trout look up, and every cast feels like the one. Big attractor dries like Chubby Chernobyls and Salmonfly patterns dominate the day.
If flows are too high or too low, we’ll pivot to the Missouri River — but when the Dearborn is on, it’s one of Montana’s best-kept secrets.
Ready to Fish Montana’s Wild Dearborn River?
Dates fill fast during prime season.
Frequently Asked Questions
Guide gratuities are standard practice left to the discretion of the client. Guides typically average 20% ($150+/day) per guide for a full day trip. Our guides will work hard for you and appreciate your gratuity in return.
Our fishing trips are suitable for both beginners and experienced anglers, and our guides can provide assistance and tips to help you improve your fishing skills.
Yes, all Buglife guided trips practice catch and release fishing.
Montana – Craig is conveniently located less than 40 minutes from the Great Falls International Airport AND less than 40 minutes from the Helena Regional Airport.
There is also something to see and do in Big Sky Country! With 2 state parks less than 20 minutes away, you have access to hiking trails at Tower Rock State Park and First People’s Buffalo Jump State Park. A short 45-minute drive will take you to Helena, MT where you can find lots of local shops as well as Broadwater Hot Springs.