Other Waters

 

Many people call the Dearborn the “mini Smith River.” The river’s headwaters begin in the Scapegoat Wilderness and flow east of the continental divide where it meets up with the Missouri River about 6 miles downstream from Craig. The lower section offers fun dry fly fishing and great streamer and nymph fishing. The float itself is mind-blowing as you’ll wind and turn through a stunning canyon and through some technical whitewater and rock gardens. The float season on the Dearborn can be short, depending on snowpack and rain affecting stream flows. It is very difficult to predict the floatability and fishing on the Dearborn so you must be flexible in your plans and expectations when booking a Dearborn trip. If the flows are not conducive to floating this small river, then we would fish the Missouri instead. It’s best to call our shop and check with us before floating the Dearborn as flows can change dramatically and quickly.  Typical float season on the Dearborn starts the 3rd Saturday in May (that’s the first day you can legally fish on small streams in Montana) and runs through mid to late June. We need at least 400cfs to float this river with the ideal range being 500cfs to 800cfs for fishing. We do float it at flows up to 1200cfs but when the flows are that high, we don’t expect to catch many fish but it’s worth it just to experience this stunning river.  (Due to the extra expense of the long shuttle and the fact that you’ll be floating through 22 miles of technically challenging water, we ask that you tip your Guide a minimum of $200. Believe me, they deserve it!)

Dearborn River-FirstRapidPanorama

  1. Full Day Float
          Full Day Float 

    • Full Day Cost is $750 for 1 or 2 anglers
    • A Full Day is 8-11+ hours long.
    • Includes snacks, non-alcoholic drinks and a delicious streamside lunch.
    • Your guide provides all the tippet and flies used.
    • Includes transportation to and from the river. (Restrictions on transportation may apply).
    • CrossCurrents is also happy to furnish state-of-the-art Orvis rods, reels and waders if you don’t have any or want to leave your gear at home.
    • Fishing License NOT included. Montana Fishing Licenses and other quality gear can be purchased at CrossCurrents Fly Shop.
    • Gratuity for the Guide is greatly appreciated. (Usually $200 – $300.  See Other Info & Policies tab for more information on tipping.)
  2. Resources
  3. Other Info & Policies
Give us a callCall CrossCurrents or send us an e-mail and we will by happy to arrange your trip of a lifetime on the scenic Dearborn River!

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