Discover one of the West’s premier fly-fishing destinations.
At Kingfisher Lodge, your days begin where the pristine, cold flows of the Bighorn River come alive—brimming with wild browns and rainbows, world-famous hatches, and mile after mile of perfectly fishable water.
This is more than a fishing trip. It’s a full immersion into a river that sets the standard for trout fishing in America.
Step into a drift boat with one of Kingfisher Lodge’s seasoned guides and experience the Bighorn the way only locals can show it. From technical dry-fly challenges to action-packed nymphing runs, every stretch of river offers something remarkable.
Ultra-productive water with incredible trout density
Legendary hatches—midges, BWOs, PMDs, caddis, and more
Guides who know every seam, shelf, and secret pocket
Whether you’re a first-time fly angler or a seasoned river veteran, the Bighorn delivers consistent action and unforgettable moments.
Kingfisher Lodge is inspired by fresh quality ingredients and is flexible to accommodate any dietary restrictions or preferences, just let us know ahead of time. Your package includes breakfast, lunch out on the boat, appetizers, dinner, and non-alcoholic beverages. If you wish to drink alcoholic beverages, please keep in mind that Big Horn County is a dry county and the lodge is unable to sell liquor so purchase those supplies beforehand.
Fly Rods:
Recommended Gear:
Travel by Air: You can fly into Fort Smith which has a 3800 foot runway if you have your own plane. You can also fly into the Billings Airport which has car rental services available.
Travel by Driving from the West/Billings: Take I-90 south from Billings, travel 44 miles and take the first Hardin exit. Follow signs for Yellowtail Dam and Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area onto state highway 313. At St. Xavier (a post office and abandoned school) take a left at the post office – there is a sign for Bighorn National Recreation Area. Stay on Hwy 313 until mile-marker 38 on the right side of the road, take the first right onto the first paved road marked by a river access sign. Follow the road a half mile to a T junction and turn right. Kingfisher Lodge is on your left about 100 yards up the road.
Travel by Driving from the South: Head north on I-90, take exit 509 at Crow Agency. It winds through the Crow Reservation and connects with Hwy 313. Take a left onto Hwy 313 and continue as listed above through St. Xavier toward Bighorn Canyon and mile marker 38.
Travel from the East: Head west on I-94 exit at Custer and take Hwy 47 south to Hardin. At Hardin, Hwy 47 becomes 313, follow directions for “from the West/Billings.”
Transportation — Round trip shuttle service from the airport.
Accommodations — Private rooms (double occupancy) with queen beds, ensuite bathroom, heating/cooling, mini-fridge, hair dryer, etc.
Meals & non-alcoholic beverages — You get breakfast, boat lunch (on fishing days), appetizers, dinner, and drinks (non-alcoholic) included.
Guided fly fishing on the Bighorn River — The “angling package” includes 3 full days of guided fishing.
Fishing gear, tackle, and flies Rods, reels, flies, leaders, tippet and other terminal tackle are provided by the lodge if you don’t bring your own.
Drift-boat access and guide support — On guided days you float the river with experienced guides experienced with the Bighorn.
Lodge amenities — Wi-Fi, pro shop, walking paths, outdoor seating, beautiful views of the Bighorn mountains, relaxing common spaces.
Alcohol — The county is dry and alcohol is not sold at the lodge. You’re allowed to bring your own if you like.
Fishing license — You must obtain and bring your own Montana fishing license.
Guide and staff gratuities — Tips for guides/staff are not included.
(Optional) Lake fishing — If you want to fish at a nearby lake or try a lake-based fishing day rather than the river, that comes at an extra cost.
If your reservation is canceled less than 90 days prior to your arrival, the deposit is non-refundable. Reservations cancelled outside 90 days are refundable minus a $450 booking fee.
WE HIGHLY RECOMMEND TRIP INSURANCE.
Alcohol: The county is dry and alcohol is not sold at the lodge. You’re allowed to bring your own if you like.
Fishing license: You must obtain and bring your own Montana fishing license.
Guide and staff gratuities: Tips for guides/staff are not included.
(Optional) Lake fishing: If you want to fish nearby lake or try a lake-based fishing day rather than the river, that comes at an extra cost.
Peak seasons fill quickly. Booking several months ahead—especially for June–September—is recommended for both lodging and guide availability.
Kingfisher Lodge is located near Fort Smith, Montana, just minutes from prime access points to the world-renowned Bighorn River.
The Bighorn fishes well year-round, but peak periods include:
The Bighorn is one of the most productive trout fisheries in the West, offering:
Not at all. Kingfisher Lodge caters to all skill levels—from first-timers to seasoned experts. Guides are patient teachers and can tailor the day to your comfort and goals.
Expect clean, comfortable rooms with a relaxed, rustic-modern feel. The lodge emphasizes hospitality, good meals, and a social atmosphere without sacrificing peace and quiet after a long day on the river.
Montana fishing licenses can be purchased online beforehand, or staff can direct you to the nearest local fly shop.
Guided float trips include:
Rod rentals are usually available if needed.
Yes. Guests enjoy chef-prepared breakfasts and dinners, along with riverside lunches during guided trips.
Smokehouse Fly Fishing offers a multitude of high quality and detail oriented hosted trips that take place in various locations such as Montana, the Bahamas, Texas, Belize, Mexico and more. The best part is all the grunt work and planning will be taken care of by us, so all you do is fish and make wonderful memories.
