The Silver Bow Club

The Silver Bow Club is a family-owned Montana guest ranch boasting 1800 acres and 3.5 miles of frontage on the legendary Big Hole River. The spacious lodge features luxury accommodations, fantastic food, and experienced fishing guides. Each day offers endless fishing opportunities including floating the Big Hole, Beaverhead, or Jefferson Rivers. For non-angling companions, ATV tours and horseback riding offer incredible sightseeing and exploration of the Jefferson River Valley. Additionally, guided Pheasant and Waterfowl hunts are available in the fall. The Silver Bow Club is a sportsman's paradise perfect for bringing the whole family together in the heart of Montana.

Who It's For

• Trout anglers
• Fishing-oriented couples/groups
• Non-angling companions

 

When To Go

The fishing season at The Silver Bow Club is from May through October. In May, pre-runoff fishing can be fantastic with Skwala stonefly and BWO hatches. The start of the summer season in June is the runoff period and typically sees higher flows and off-color water. However, the famed salmonfly hatch occurs in June, with prolific numbers of jumbo stoneflies bringing trophy trout to the surface. If timed correctly, the early season offers some of the best dry fly fishing of the year. During the summer months of July and August, the rivers offer medium flows, consistent caddis and mayfly hatches, terrestrial fishing with foamy hoppers, and warm days. Dry-dropper fishing is common in the summer, targeting plump trout in riffles and pocket water. September brings the autumn season and offers anglers lower flows, cooler temperatures, and exciting streamer fishing.

Rainbow Trout

The wild Rainbow Trout of the Big Hole and Beaverhead Rivers are known for their vigor and stamina, fueled by the rivers' healthy aquatic insect population. The rainbows here are often found in quick riffles and runs feeding on nymphs and emergers. Your expert guides will know the hot spots for targeting these beautiful trout, which can range in size from 10 inches to over 20 inches.

Brown Trout

The Jefferson River and its tributaries feature healthy populations of wild brown trout which can range in size from 10 inches to well over 25 inches. Although anglers can target browns using a variety of techniques, the biggest fish are typically caught fishing streamer patterns in the fall.

Boats

At The Silver Bow Club, you'll be fishing out of Western-style drift boats. These are the quintessential river craft in Montana and offer rod storage, dry hatches, and lean braces.

Equipment

Successful fishing in the Jefferson River drainage only requires a couple of rods with matching reels. We recommend bringing 2 rods: a 9' 5wt for dry flies, and a 9' 6wt for nymphing and streamers. Your guides will help you rig appropriately for the day's fishing. We recommend adhering to the packing and equipment lists provided by Trident.

 

Itinerary

Day 1: From Home to The Silver Bow Club

A weeklong trip to The Silver Bow Club starts with a flight to the Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN). From the airport, you will rent a car for the 2-hour drive to the lodge. Once you've arrived at the lodge, you can settle in, relax, and enjoy a wonderful meal prepared by the on-site culinary team.

Days 2 - 6: The Fishing Days

Fishing days start with a full breakfast at the lodge before heading out with your guide for the day. Fishing locations depend on the conditions and your goals for the day and typically include floating one of the productive sections of the Big Hole River. There are also plenty of other fisheries in the area to explore, including the Beaverhead, and Jefferson Rivers. At midday, you'll eat a hearty cooler lunch on the water with your guide, allowing you to relax and refuel from the comfort of the drift boat or on a shady bank. Following an afternoon fishing session, your guide will transport you back to the lodge, where you can clean up and enjoy a fabulous meal with friends. After dinner, enjoy drinks and fishing stories, play a game of billiards in the game room, or retire early.

Day 7: From The Silver Bow Club to Home

On your final morning, you will drive approximately 2 hours back to the Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN), where you will board a flight to your home destination.

 

Lodging

Accommodations

The Silver Bow Club is ideal for fishing groups, family reunions, and corporate groups. Boasting 8 bedrooms, the lodge rooms and suites are spacious and luxurious. Main floor lodge rooms have mountain views and each features private baths. Second-floor luxury suites have king-sized beds, meadows and mountain views, and a bathroom en-suite. Guests have access to golf carts for accessing the river on the property.

The lodge, a beautiful 15,000 square feet log structure, features a great room with a massive stone fireplace. Gather in the Great Room or around the campfire under the big Montana night sky. Read a book in one of the many sitting areas or enjoy a game of pool in the lounge. Rugged beauty combined with Western elegance await you at the Silver Bow Club.

Food

Meals at the Silver Bow Club are prepared fresh by the chef, featuring a flavorsome menu that ensures you'll be well-nourished for your fishing adventures. Breakfasts and dinners are enjoyed in the main dining room with friends. Substantial cooler lunches are served by your guide on the water, allowing you to rejuvenate with the sights and sounds of the river. After dinner each evening, you can enjoy cocktails with friends, play a game of billiards in the game room, or retire early. Dietary restrictions and preferences can be accommodated with advanced notice.

Connectivity

Complimentary WiFi is available in the lodge. Although it is generally a reliable service, it can be affected by adverse weather conditions. Cell service may be available at the lodge depending on your service plan.

 

Rates

2026 Fishing Packages

Trident Travel's expert planning service is free of charge. The rates below are the same as you would pay by booking directly with the lodge.

Rates and inclusions are subject to change at any time. Contact us for the most current pricing.

Double Occupancy / Shared Guide (Per Person)

4 Nights / 3 Days = $4,055.00

5 Nights / 4 Days = $4,962.50

6 Nights / 5 Days = $5,780.00

7 Nights / 6 Days = $6,525.00

 

Single Occupancy / Private Guide (Per Person)

4 Nights / 3 Days = $6,210.00

5 Nights / 4 Days = $7,665.00

6 Nights / 5 Days = $9,000.00

7 Nights / 6 Days = $10,210.00

 

What's Included:

• Guided Fishing
• Accommodations and Meals
• Alcoholic beverages at the lodge
• WiFi at the lodge
• Rental fishing equipment if needed
• Flies
  

 

What's Not Included:

• Airfare to/from Bozeman, MT (BZN)
• Transfers to/from Bozeman, MT (BZN)
• Fishing License
• Gratuities for guides and staff
• Extra activities
• Lodging taxes

 

FAQ

What skill level is required for this trip?

The Silver Bow Club offers something for everyone, from beginners to advanced anglers. No previous experience is required for this trip, although we highly recommend practicing your casting to get the most out of your experience.

How should I prepare for a trip to The Silver Bow Club?

Most importantly, you should practice casting, as accuracy and presentation are paramount in trout fishing. Also, purchasing the right gear, tackle, and clothing is important - use our recommended packing lists. You should think about your goals for the trip so that you can relay them to your guides. Lastly, figure out your travel logistics well in advance.

How many fish can I expect to catch?

As with any fishing trip, numerous variables can influence the fishing, including flows, weather, hatches, and angler ability.

Is The Silver Bow Club Family Friendly?

The Silver Bow Club is a great option for fishing-oriented families who want a rural Montana Experience with modern lodge amenities. In addition to the fantastic fishing, there are also opportunities for adventures like horseback riding, ATV tours, and Pheasant hunting.

 

What is the weather like?

The climate in southwest Montana is typically arid and mild. Summer temperatures can be warm, with average highs around 85 degrees F. In the spring and fall, lows can dip below freezing with snow possible. Anglers should plan to dress in layers to stay protected from sun, wind, cold, and possible rain anytime during the season.

Is tipping customary?

Yes, tipping is customary although it is at your discretion. Tipping 10% of your trip total for the staff, and $150 per day for your guide is a good general guideline. Please plan on tipping in cash.

 

What happens if I’m injured during the trip, and should I purchase travel insurance?

Medical emergencies and evacuations can happen in remote destinations, which is why we strongly recommend enrolling with Global Rescue before your trip. Global Rescue provides industry-leading medical and security evacuation services, and they also offer comprehensive travel insurance plans serviced through IMG. This all-in-one solution allows anglers to secure both emergency evacuation coverage and travel insurance through a single provider, helping ensure you’re protected if something unexpected occurs before or during your trip.