In the "Wild" and "Pristine" Centennial Valley

Enjoy Montana Fishing at Its Finest at Our Western Montana Fishing Lodge

At our Western Montana Fishing Lodge feisty Cutthroat Trout, Rainbow Trout and Arctic Grayling still inhabit the local streams and lakes.
With little fishing competition you'll enjoy every minute spent
fly fishing Montana's waters.

Elk Lake Resorts sits in prime fishing country. Located near three famous rivers - Henry's Fork of the Snake, Montana's Big Hole River, and the Madison River, Montana - fly-fishing is a part of life. Lake fishing abounds as well - Elk Lake (outside your door), Hidden Lake (just up the road), and Henry's Lake Idaho, just around the corner. And fish - our local waters are home to West Slope Cutthroat, Yellowstone Cutthroat, Rainbow Trout, Burbot, and Arctic Grayling to name a few. Our guests truly enjoy Western Montana Fishing at its finest.

• Elk Lake: Just outside your cabin door is a lake full of large and feisty Westslope and Yellowstone Cutthroat. With a water surface nearly 4 miles long by about 1/2 mile wide, Elk Lake Resort has plenty of water - and lots of feed. None the less, it is only lightly fished. The patient angler, one willing to take the time to 'learn' the lake, is often rewarded with colorful, firm fish in the 3 to 5 pound range.
• Hidden Lake: Four miles up the road - at the end of the line - lies a hidden gem. This brilliant blue lake, surrounded by emerald green forests, and overshadowed by rocky cliffs is a beautiful place to spend the day. But, why not wet your line while you're there? Best fished from one of our row boats, or your own float tube, Hidden Lake is home to a self-sustaining population of rainbow trout. Most folks who spend their time fly-fishing Montana's waters tend to catch and release. And, Hidden Lake rarely lets them down - producing beautiful, colorful rainbows ranging from 3 - 5 pounds. However, one lucky young man caught a 12 pound Rainbow a year or so ago - and I hear rumors of another 'fish of unusual size' lurking in the depths (145' plus) of this little gem (Of course, with fishermen, you never know!).
• Elk Springs Creek: A slow moving creek fed by the underground outlet of Elk Lake, Elk Springs Creek meanders slowly across the valley floor before pouring into Swan Lake. Elk Lake Road divides the 'fishing' sections, with the creek west of the road open for fishing from the 3rd Saturday in May to the end of November. The section east of the road opens July 15th and remains open to the end of November. This creek runs through Refuge Lands and is accessible, by foot, to the public.
• Odell Creek: This pretty little creek tumbles down from the Centennial Mountains to pour into Lower Red Rock Lake. Home to Yellowstone Cutthroat and Grayling, it is open to fishing from the 3rd Saturday in May to the end of November. Be sure to ask permission before crossing private land.
• Red Rock Creek: Some may see this as a humble creek, but Red Rock Creek is actually the headwaters of the mighty Missouri River. It also has its own claim to fame as the home to some very large Yellowstone Cutthroat (our fish biologist says they can run up to 10#!) and the unique sport fish - Arctic Grayling. In fact, Upper Red Rock Lake (closed to fishing), Odell Creek, and Red Rock Creek support one of the last native strains of Arctic Grayling in the lower 48 states (ALL CATCH AND RELEASE FOR GRAYLING). Open to fishing from the 3rd Saturday in May to the end of November, this creek flows mostly through public lands and the refuge before pouring into Upper Red Rock Lake. Be sure to seek permission before crossing posted and private lands.
• Local Ponds: Many of the old-timers tell tales of the HUGE brook trout which lived in Culver Pond. Now, a little more humble than in its heydey - Culver Pond and nearby MacDonald Pond - still provide food and shelter to some nice trout. Located on the Red Rocks National Wildlife Refuge these ponds open for fishing July 15th and close the end of November. Also included in these open fishing dates are Widgeon Pond and Picnic Creek.
• Henry's Lake Idaho: Ready to expand your horizons? Want to take a peek at the lake just over the hill? Henry's Lake Idaho, is a favorite gathering spot for fly-fishermen from around the country. According to The Angler Guide the Cutthroat Trout in Henry's Lake Idaho average three to five pounds, cutthroat-rainbow hybrids reach up to twelve pounds, and Brookies up to three pounds. Now how's that for temptation?
• Madison River Montana: Famous for miles around, Montana's Madison River is a treat to fish. According to Fly Fishing Connection this is a fairly easy river for beginners to fish. In addition, the river is very accessible, easy to wade or drift. And for fish - the population is diverse with rainbows, browns, cutthroat, and a few cutt-bows, too.
• Big Hole River Montana: Considered by some to be the prettiest river in Montana, the Big Hole is also famous for its fish. In a nicely detailed article Big Sky Fishing lays out the best flies to use - and the best areas to fish depending on the season.
• Henry's Fork of the Snake Idaho: Drawing fisherman from all over the world, the Henry's Fork offers many fine opportunities to catch large and illusive trout. According to Fly Fishing West Yellowstone the 'river holds the potential for great fishing.'
• Ruby River Montana: Considered an 'ace in the hole' by Four Rivers Fishing Company, the Ruby is not nearly as well-known, nor as heavily fished, as many of Southwestern Montana's more popular waters. Yet, this does not mean it isn't worth the effort.
• Beaverhead River Montana: A pretty river originally formed by the confluence of the Red Rock River and Horse Prairie Creek, the river now begins at the outlet of the Clark Canyon Reservoir. The water of the river is comparatively cold - and is home to Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout, and Arctic Grayling. For more information on current river conditions check out the river report at the Madison River Fishing Company.

• Westslope Cutthroat Trout: One of the thirteen subspecies of cutthroat trout, Westslope are unique because they occur on both sides of the Continental Divide. A Montana native, Westslope Cutthroat are spring spawners ascending streams during spring snow melt. Their eagerness to take a fly or lure make them a great fish for angling. Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks which monitor the fish in Elk Lake, began stocking Westslope (instead of Yellowstone) cutthroat several years ago. This fish has thrived in Elk Lake's waters - and the lake is now producing a large number of this bright, beautiful fish in the 3 to 5 pounds range.
• Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout: A popular game fish, Yellowstone 'Cuts' are visually distinguished from other trout species by their two prominent red slashes on the lower jaw, and from other cutthroat species by their medium-large, black spots and their drab brownish, yellowish, or silverish coloration. Yellowstone cutthroat are believed to have historically occupied much of the Yellowstone River basin. The species prefers cold, clear streams, rivers, and lakes. They typically reproduce in streams and rivers. When Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks began stocking Elk Lake with Westslope Cutthroat, they ceased to stock the Yellowstones. However, these hardy fish seem to be attempting to sustain themselves by spawning in the small stream which flows near the lodge.
• Rainbow Trout: A favorite of many fishermen, the Rainbow Trout in Hidden Lake have been self sustaining for several decades now. They activity spawn along shorelines and windswept shoreline points. Sporting small black spots along their back, dorsal fin and caudal fin, they have a distinct red or pink stripe which runs from the caudal fin - thus their name. According to Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks the population of fish in this little lake is remaining 'extremely stable'. Rainbow trout area also found in Elk Springs Creek and MacDonald Pond.
• Arctic Grayling: Related to the trout and whitefish, the Grayling attains adult averages of 12 - 15 inches in length, although some grow to 30 inches long. A good looking fish, it has a silvery body with tints of gold and lavender. It is considered a superb sport fish. They will eat almost anything so anglers can try live bait, lures, and flies. They will rise to a dry fly, and techniques used with trout will usually work with Grayling. Although Grayling used to inhabit the waters of Elk Lake, the drought of 1985 - 1994 which depleted the flow of Narrows Creek, their primary spawning creek, seems to have eliminated them. However, Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks is planning their reintroduction in the near future. In the mean time, Red Rock Creek is a great place to pursue this sport fish. Remember, Arctic Grayling are a 'catch and release' fish only!
• Lake Trout: 'Catch and release only', a pre-historic strain of Lake Trout inhabit the waters of Elk Lake. Typically on the small side, these fish are thought to have arrived on a glacial flow from the north. Limited to the waters of Elk Lake and Twin Lakes, both in Montana, the Fish, Wildlife, and Parks Department are currently studying these fish. Thus, if you catch one - please release it. And, if you catch one with a transmitter attached, don't be surprised.
• Burbot: An easily recognized fish, the Burbot is native to Canada and the northern United States. They are the only fresh water representative of the ocean-dwelling Codfish Family. Also called Ling, Burbot are unique in that they spawn during winter. They are largely nocturnal and have an enthusiastic following among fishermen who rate them tops for table fare.

Most fishermen in our neck of the woods prefer flies. However, we've had fish caught on bait (the 12# lunker caught at Hidden Lake bit into a 'cheese sandwich'), lures, and even a worm on a Sponge Bob pole. Whether you like to troll, fly-fish, or use spinners, we've included some of the most successful lures and flies below.

Flies:
• Prince Nymphs, Soft Hackles, Pheasant Tails, and Bloodworms
• Leach Patterns - primarily in blacks, browns, and olive greens
• Scuds - keep to the off white and light greens
• Damsel Flies - best success has been with limes, browns, and the darker color patterns

Spinners:
• Panther Martins - 1/4 oz weight in blacks, golds, and yellows
• Thomas Cyclones - red and gold patterns
• Rapallas - stick to the smaller sizes in Rainbow Trout and Cutthroat Trout patterns or try ones with a black body and a gold stripe
• Jacob's Spin-Lure - gold with red spots seem to work best
• Flat Fish - a #4 green flat fish used with some weight has been quite successful when fishing Hidden Lake

Other Gear:
• Most fishermen prefer intermediate lines or weight on a float line. Longer leaders (10 - 15') seem to work best for fly fishermen.
• Float tubes, waders, or boats are preferred at Elk Lake, although several fishermen have had success fishing off our dock.
• Float tubes or boats are strongly encouraged at Hidden Lake, but there are a few places where one can fish successfully off the shoreline.

Elk Lake:
• Most fishermen prefer fishing the shoreline along the southwest edge of the lake up to and just past the Resort. Several 'hot' spots exist in the bay near the Resort. Another favorite spot is the rocky drop off toward the northeast end of the lake. Still another is in the weeds on the north end. Most fish are in water depths of not more than 25', and they commonly run in schools. Most fishing success seems to be found by fishing along the weed beds either at the point where the shoreline drops off, or just over their tops. Best fishing times are from 'ice off' (usually Mid-May) to late June or early July and then starting again in late August through 'ice up'. In addition, ice fishing has been a real hit at times.

Hidden Lake:
• Opening annually around the 3rd weekend in June, Hidden Lake remains fairly consistent through most of the summer. Most fishermen prefer using boats and float tubes to access this lake as most of the shoreline is heavily timbered. Float tubes are a favorite as it is a 1/4 mile walk from the parking lot to the lake. If you don't want to carry in your gear, we offer row boats for rent. Although this lake is VERY deep, the fish still tend to be found in 25 feet of water, or less.

• Fly Shops: Below are several links to local fly-shops to get you headed in the right direction for a terrific fishing experience - wherever your interests lie.
• Bozeman Angler: Great source for fishing trips, fishing equipment, and fishing guides.
• Bud Lilly's Trout Shop - West Yellowstone, Montana
• Frontier Anglers - Dillon, Montana
• Jacklin's Fly Shop - West Yellowstone, Montana
• The Tackle Shop - Ennis, Montana
• Uncle Bob's Outdoor's Inc. - Dillon, Montana

• Fishing Guides: The links below can connect you to any one of several well qualified guides who can take you where you want to go, show you a great time, then get you back safely.
  • Chris Harris FlyFishing - Works with Arrick's fly shop in West Yellowstone
  • Madison River Outfitters - Based out of West Yellowstone, Montana
  • Montana Fishing Company, LLC - Guide service on the Madison, Missouri, or Yellowstone
  • Tightline Outfitters - Float the Madison, Missouri, or Yellowstone Rivers
  • Yellowstone Angler - Fishing on the Yellowstone, Madison, Gallatin Rivers and Paradise Valley waters

• Refuge Information:
  • Red Rock Lakes National Wildlife Refuge website
  • Red Rock Lakes National Wildlife Refuge Map

Fishing Sites: Links to other sites which offer interesting and helpful information useful to our fishing friends.
• B&B Worldwide Fishing Adventures: High quality fishing trips and vacations to destinations around the world Including Mexico, Alaska, Canada, Costa Rica, Brazil, Panama, Guatemala
• Fishin' On-Line: Best handmade crafts and carvings, unique gifts, and hottest collectibles, beautiful log cabin and home decor, superb art and sculptures and other great items for the fishing / outdoor / wildlife enthusiast and interior decorators.
• Fishing Online - Links to the Fishing World: The Fisherman's Guide to Fishing Resorts, Camps, Outposts, Campsites, Cabins, Books, Videos, and Software.
• Fly Fisherman: The leading magazine of fly fishing - the quiet sport.
• Fly Fishing Entomology: Want to know more about about flies? Tying Flies? And lots more about the acquatic entomology? Check out this unique site.
• Fly Fishing Vacations : Search the fly fishing network for information on vacations and guide services from all over the world.
• Montana Fly-Fishing Report: Links to fellow anglers, fly shops, and guides.
• Pictures of Fish: Fishermen post and vote on their favorite fish pictures.
• Sportsman's Resource: The most comprehensive directory of fishing web sites.
• The Ultimate Fly Fishing Website: Travel information, fly tying instructions and patterns, gear information and more than one thousand related links. Their primary focus is on fly fishing for trout, steelhead, and salmon in North America.
• Used Boats: Classified listings of boats for sale or rent by owner.
• 

For the convenience of our guests, we sell Montana fishing licenses.

Resident

Conservation and Fishing
• 1 - 14 years old (implied with conservation license) - $8.00
• 14 - 17 years old - $16.00
• 18 - 61 years old - $26.00
• 62 + years old (implied with conservation license) - $8.00
• Disabled (implied with conservation license) - $8.00

Non Resident

• Conservation and Fishing (season) - $70.00
• Conservation and Fishing (two day) - $25.00
• Conservation and Fishing (ten day) - $53.50

Check back. We're working on a brief history of fly-fishing which any dedicated angler, history buff or not, will find interesting.