My group and I just returned from an amazing float trip through the heart of the Bob Marshall Wilderness in Montana. We spent a week floating almost 50 miles of the South Fork of the Flathead River,... one of world's last stronghold of pure strain West Slope Cutthroat Trout. First, we "earned" our way into the headwaters by horseback riding more than 25 miles. This river has to be one of the most remote in the lower 48... there is no shortcut to the get to the headwaters and it must be accomplished on foot or by horse/mule (park regulations).
Thankfully, Paws Up Outfitters provides this transport service and a complete host of mobile camp amenities throughout the week. We first camped and fished at Youngs Creek near the headwaters of the South Fork. This was a real treat, as we had the opportunity to fish this small gem and receive a nice introduction to what was yet to come. Then, we ventured by horseback again and launched our boats at the confluence of Gordon Creek and the South Fork. From there, we would begin an epic journey down this incredible fishery.
All week, it was dry fly fishing to gorgeous Cutts that would eat size 6 foam flies with vigor. While most fish were in the 10 - 15 inch class, everyone still landed a number of nice sized fish to 20 inches during the trip. Nothing is more exciting that seeing Cutts in gin-clear water rise through the water column to eat your fly off the surface.
Here are a number of photos that tell part of the story. I will be completing my full trip report in the next few days and will post on my blog.
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