General Information
The sleepy, quiet town of Twin Bridges, Montana is known to many as the epicenter of Montana fly fishing. A small, intimate community, Twin Bridge has one flashing traffic light and approximately 300 residents, and in many ways typifies what life was like in Big Sky country 50 years ago. Home to the RL Winston Rod Company and countless sheep, cattle, and horse operations, Twin Bridges has largely escaped the crowds and traffic of some of the better-known Montana towns and cities. There are no souvenir shops (unless you count the auto parts store) or traffic jams (unless you count the cattle drives) – only a sparsely populated river valley, abundant wildlife, panoramic views, and some of the best fly fishing in the Lower 48. Just beyond the outskirts of town are situated five of Montana’s finest blue-ribbon trout streams including the Big Hole, Beaverhead, Jefferson, and Ruby. The legendary Madison is a short, scenic drive down a two-lane highway that doubles as Twin Bridges’ main street. Sprinkle in an abundance of private water spring creeks, ponds, and sloughs, and it quickly becomes apparent why The Stonefly Inn is one of our most sought-after destinations in the Northern Rockies.
Big Hole
Fed by three different mountain ranges, dozens of freestone creeks, and flowing for over 100 miles, the Big Hole River is one of those places you just can’t get off your mind. Often referred to as “The Last Best River,” the Big Hole fishes well from ice-out in April until the winter weather hits in November. Limited outfitter use makes this river a first choice for many anglers.
Beaverhead
One of the three great tailwaters in Big Sky country. Stable water flows, dense populations of trout, and great insect life make this river a great option almost any time of year. Multiple spring creek influxes below Dillon create great clear water and amazing dry fly opportunities during the heat of the summer. A great river to fly fish.
Madison
They say you have to have an ace in the hole. If we had to pick a river to fit that bill, it would be the “Maddy.” Consistent numbers of trout and good water flow throughout the summer months keep the rods bent when fishing is tough elsewhere.
Jefferson
Formed in Twin Bridges by the confluence of the Big Hole, Beaverhead, and Ruby, the Jefferson flows northbound for more than eighty miles to the confluence of the Madison and Gallatin Rivers to form the Missouri. Receiving less pressure than any of the others, this is one of those fisheries that you have to see to believe.
Ruby
For those of us that live in Montana, the Ruby River is known as a “sleeper.” From the dam to Twin Bridges, there are over 40 miles of twisting, turning trout water. Good public access makes this a great place to spend an afternoon before, during, or after your trip.
Spring Creeks
If you are looking for the “big name” spring creeks like DePuy’s, Armstrong’s, or Nelson’s, you won’t find them in this area. What you will find are places like Poindexter Slough in Dillon (entirely on state ground), the lower Beaverhead, Albers Slough, Owsley Slough, and a multitude of smaller feeder creeks – many of which don’t even have names!
+ Listen to this WAYPOINTS Podcast: JAKE WELLS – Planning the Perfect Trip to Montana
Boats and Equipment
Float fishing on area rivers is done via McKenzie-style drift boats designed for fly fishing. The Stonefly Inn has a fully-stocked fly shop with all of the major equipment brands for sale, and a full line-up of rental and demo gear for client use.
