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the Dearborn River
The Dearborn River is truly one of Montana's gems. This "off the radar screen" fishery receives moderate pressure during it's short float season. The fishing can be great, or it can be lousy. It's a river for fisherman who appreciate wild country and solitude. You won't find more beautiful surroundings on any trout stream in Montana.
Are You Ready?
We offer guided float trips during what is usually a short float season. These are long day trips, and are not for the casual fisherman. If it's important that you be at cocktail hour, the Dearborn may not be for you. If you're up for a 12 hour float day, you may really appreciate the scenery and fishing the Dearborn has to offer. You'll float in rafts, and there is little time to wade fish along the way. The twenty mile float requires that you keep moving. All trips start early and run late. We do not take large groups down the Dearborn, and run no more than two boats per day. Inquire with John or Mark to get all the details on guided float trips on this great river.
We offer guided float trips during what is usually a short float season. These are long day trips, and are not for the casual fisherman. If it's important that you be at cocktail hour, the Dearborn may not be for you. If you're up for a 12 hour float day, you may really appreciate the scenery and fishing the Dearborn has to offer. You'll float in rafts, and there is little time to wade fish along the way. The twenty mile float requires that you keep moving. All trips start early and run late. We do not take large groups down the Dearborn, and run no more than two boats per day. Inquire with John or Mark to get all the details on guided float trips on this great river.
Wilderness Experience
The Dearborn River starts high on the Continental Divide west of Craig. After leaving the National Forest, it flows through mostly private land before its confluence with the Missouri just north of Craig. Along the way, the river has carved beautiful canyons that provide great habitat for trout. The upper reaches tend to hold smaller fish, but in the lower canyon, anglers regularly encounter some real bruisers. Access is limited, but you'll rarely run into another fisherman. While not a trophy trout stream by Montana standards, it's good enough to spend a day or two exploring.Critical Habitat
One of two primary spawning tributaries of the Missouri, the Dearborn River receives large runs of both Browns and Rainbows during their respective spawning seasons. Rainbows tend to move in and out quickly when spawning. Browns, on the other hand, spend more time in the river, and many holdover during the winter. When the river opens (third Saturday in May), you can encounter some big, aggressive Browns lurking in the many deep cliff pools of the Dearborn. Streamers are the most effective way to hunt the big guys, but the Dearborn has a decent Salmonfly hatch that will get them looking up.
Floating the Dearborn
Dearborn Trips begin on opening day (third Saturday in May) and usually run through July 4th. Unpredictable water conditions make it hard to book a trip on the Dearborn. The river may be flooding one day and in perfect condition 2 days later. We suggest that you book at least a 3 day trip between opening day and June 20. You should be able to fish the river at least once during you stay.
We do not run "group" trips on the Dearborn. The Dearborn is a small river, and large groups only spook the fish. If you are with a group of anglers, you should plan on taking turns.
If you have further questions about booking a guided fishing trip on this beautiful river, give Mark or John a call at Headhunters (1-877-379-3597). We will be happy to answer any questions or concerns you might have.
Those planning on floating the Dearborn should bring quality rain gear, breathable waders and cold weather gear (layering garments, fleece hats and gloves, etc.) The Dearborn is not recommended for those with physical limitations.
Dearborn Trips begin on opening day (third Saturday in May) and usually run through July 4th. Unpredictable water conditions make it hard to book a trip on the Dearborn. The river may be flooding one day and in perfect condition 2 days later. We suggest that you book at least a 3 day trip between opening day and June 20. You should be able to fish the river at least once during you stay.
We do not run "group" trips on the Dearborn. The Dearborn is a small river, and large groups only spook the fish. If you are with a group of anglers, you should plan on taking turns.
If you have further questions about booking a guided fishing trip on this beautiful river, give Mark or John a call at Headhunters (1-877-379-3597). We will be happy to answer any questions or concerns you might have.
Those planning on floating the Dearborn should bring quality rain gear, breathable waders and cold weather gear (layering garments, fleece hats and gloves, etc.) The Dearborn is not recommended for those with physical limitations.
Summer Wade Fishing
The Dearborn is often thought of as an early season float trip, but this gem provides some of the areas best small stream wade fishing as well. During July and August, wading anglers can have a blast searching for for smaller Rainbows and Browns with a hopper. You may run into a big fish or two as well! The water is gin clear, and a stealthy approach is often required. One step too many and you'll see darting shadows. You're busted.There are several access points along the river between Craig and the National Forest boundary. Hiking from the access points will get you into the best fishing. The Dearborn runs entirely through private land, so you will need to stay below the high water mark, which is not difficult. Stop by our shop, and we'll break out the maps and show you where to go. If you're fishing in the area for several days and are looking for something different, the Dearborn is definitely worth your time.