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Raft fly fishing trip on a Montana river

Raft Fly Fishing

Float through Montana's canyons and valleys by raft — a more adventurous way to reach remote water and cover diverse terrain.

Versatility on the Water

Access More Water, More Ways

Raft fly fishing combines the coverage of a float trip with the versatility to handle a wider range of river conditions. Our fishing rafts are purpose-built for angling — stable, maneuverable, and equipped with casting platforms that let you fish effectively from the boat.

Rafts excel on mid-size rivers where drift boats may not be the best fit. They navigate tighter water, handle faster currents, and can access stretches that other watercraft can't. On rivers like the Stillwater and Boulder, the raft opens up miles of productive water that would otherwise require long hikes.

The fishing approach is similar to drift boat trips — your guide rows while you cast from the bow. The raft's wider beam provides a stable platform, and the ability to pull over and anchor in tight spots means you can switch between floating and wading throughout the day.

For guests who want a slightly more adventurous day on the water, or who want to fish rivers with more character and technical challenge, the raft trip is an excellent choice.

3+ Rivers
Yellowstone, Stillwater, Boulder
2 Anglers
Per Raft
Versatile
Float + Wade Combo
Full Day
With Streamside Lunch
Fishing from the Raft

Techniques & Approach

Float & Fish

Cast from the raft as your guide rows through productive stretches. The raft's stability makes it an excellent platform for dry fly fishing, nymphing, and streamer work. Your guide positions the raft for optimal presentations along banks, seams, and structure.

Pull Over & Wade

One of the raft's biggest advantages is the ability to pull over and anchor in tight spots. When you find a productive run or rising fish, the guide beaches the raft and you wade in for a closer approach. The best of both worlds in a single day.

Canyon & Technical Water

Rafts access canyon stretches and technical water that drift boats avoid. These less-pressured sections often hold larger, less wary trout. The adventure of navigating faster water between fishing holes adds to the experience.
Best Rivers for Rafting

Where We Raft

Yellowstone River →

Big water sections and canyon stretches where the raft's versatility shines. Access water that drift boats pass by.

Stillwater River →

Crystal-clear freestone from the Beartooth Mountains. The raft is ideal for the Stillwater's varied character — riffles, pools, and pocket water.

Boulder River →

Remote valley setting with willing trout. The raft opens up miles of the Boulder that would otherwise require long hikes to access.
"The raft trip on the Stillwater was the surprise highlight of our week. We floated through a canyon, pulled over to wade a perfect riffle, and I caught a 20-inch rainbow on a hopper. The raft let us fish water we'd never have reached on foot."
— Returning Guest
On the Water

Raft Fishing in Frame

Anglers on a Montana raft fishing trip
Raft crew
Guide on the oars of a Montana fly fishing raft
On the oars
Guide, angler, and lodge dog on a Montana river trip
The whole crew
Couple with a catch in the drift boat
Good times
Angler hooked up from the boat on a sunny day
Fish on
More in Fishing Trip Types

Begin Your Montana Story

Whether it's your first trip or your twentieth, there's always new water to discover. Let us help you plan the perfect fly fishing experience.

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Orvis 2024 Finalist — Endorsed Fly-Fishing Lodge of the Year Orvis Endorsed Fly-Fishing Lodge