Jefferson River Float Trips with Montana Fly Fishing Trips

$
500
/ Boat
Capacity:
1 - 2 anglers
Days:
Daily
Duration:
1 day
Charlie G
Response rate: 
26%
Response time:
2 hours
The what? Yah, it's not the Madison or other rivers in Montana that you read about every other week. Good.  The Jefferson River isn't an easy fishery unless you really know it. The fish aren't always jumping in the boat but if you wanna try something new and a little different, you may be rewarded...
 
Highlights
  • Transportation to the river and back from Ennis, Alder, Sheridan or Twin Bridges.
  • Access to top of the line fishing equipment
  • Wonderful streamside lunch
  • Expert guidance from a professional, experienced and enthusiastic MFFT fishing guide!
What is Included:
Lunch
Drinks & Snacks
Flies
Tackle
Rod & Reel
Transportation
Rates
Per
Capacity
Dates
Duration
Price
Boat
1 - 2
 anglers
Daily1 day
$
500
Availability
Fishing Waters
 (2)
The Jefferson River is an important part of a system of rivers that combine to form the majestic Missouri. Starting at the confluence of the Big Hole and Beaverhead rivers near Twin ... moreBridges, Montana, it winds 77 miles in a northeasterly fashion to Three Forks. Here, it meets with the Madison and Gallatin rivers that together converge into the Missouri River at the Missouri Headwaters State Park. Like so many other rivers in Montana, the Jefferson, named by Clark in honor of the U.S. President, runs deep with history. In fact, the Jefferson River is a segment of the larger Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail, administered by our National Park Service.

When thinking about the Jefferson, a Class 1 river for recreational enjoyment, most observers view the river in three distinct sections. Characterized by slow, meandering flows, the upper third works its way through a broad, arid valley. Along this braided, 44 mile long floodplain, you will encounter working farms, dense cottonwood stands, flowered meadows and a variety of wildlife until you reach the town of Cardwell. Throughout the next 15 miles, its waters flow through a narrow, steep canyon where the water can be deep, slow and contained. As a result, the stretch from Cardwell to the Sappington Bridge has comparatively fewer trees, swamps, meadows and wildlife.

At Sappington Bridge the river once again becomes a circuitous, rambling river, rich in swamp life, colorful fields, large cottonwood groves and productive agricultural land. The presence of significant agriculture has resulted in competition for water use. During dry years, the river was tapped generously for irrigation, dropping water levels to the point where fish populations were adversely affected. Recent improvement in riparian management has tended to alleviate these issues. Primarily known as a brown trout river, rainbows, mountain whitefish, burbot and northern pike can also be found here. Less well known and less discovered, the Jefferson offers the opportunity to catch large fish in a scenic, un-crowded environment.
Destination
 (1)
A uniquely western mix of quaint and kitsch, West Yellowstone is a gateway to one of three, Montana based, national park entrances. While tourist shops and nature attractions threaten ... moreto distort the town’s true character, serious fly fishers should not be put off. In 2009, Forbes Magazine rated West Yellowstone as one of the top ten fly fishing destinations in America, describing it as the trout epicenter of the world. If that weren’t enough, in 2010, Forbes went on to list Firehole Ranch, located on Hebgen Lake, as the 5th best fly fishing destination in the world, one of only two cited in the US.

Epicenter is in fact an accurate way to describe this town. Top rated trout streams surround West Yellowstone such as the Madison, Gallatin, Yellowstone and Henry’s Fork of the Snake. The Upper Madison, Gibbons and Firehole Rivers are a stone’s throw away. For those partial to float and deep-water fishing, Hebgen Lake, Earthquake Lake, Henry’s Lake and Island Park Reservoir provide a large roster of fishing options. Heartier souls can go ice fishing during winter months while for those inclined to participate, the region hosts several, competitive, ice fishing tournaments. 

Lodging choices are abundant, ranging from rustic campsites to absolute luxury. Year round sports opportunities are available including horseback riding, mountain biking, hiking, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling. 
 (1)
Nestled at the convergence point of five valleys, Missoula is a picturesque as it is interesting. Surrounded by towering mountains, three rivers come together here; the Clark Fork, ... moreBlackfoot and Bitterroot. Each river is overflowing with rainbow, brown, cutthroat and bull trout, and the variety of opportunities to fish here are nearly infinite. For those inclined to venture out, it’s even possible to drop an impromptu line from a bridge in the middle of town and expect success with a catch. Other year round outdoor sports include white water river rafting, hiking and competitive marathon running.

What’s most unique about Missoula is that it’s not only beautiful but it appeals to sportsmen and artists alike. In fact, Missoula is a premier choice for fly fishermen with diverse interests such as the visual arts, live theater, cinema, local brewpubs and an active nightlife. Much of this activity is attributed to the presence of the University of Montana, frequently ranked as the most beautiful campus in the US, as well as being recognized for its academic excellence. The city is now host to the Montana Book Festival, the International Wildlife Film Festival and the Montana Museum of Art and Culture.

Whether you are a fly-fisher with a yen for culture or you are a fisherman traveling with people who don’t fish, this is a wise choice for striking a balance between great angling and satisfying entertainment.
 (2)
This is a small town with a big heart, a veritable fisherman’s paradise. Located near the fish-filled Madison River, and surrounded by the waters of Ennis Lake, the Ruby River, Hebgen ... moreLake, Quake Lake, Henry’s Lake, the Big Hole River and scores of smaller streams, the town boasts what many consider the best trout fishing in the world. As well known for its wranglers as its anglers, Ennis has succeeded in maintaining the look and feel of its original, gold town roots. Warm and hospitable, the area offers a wide variety of accommodations ranging from simple campsites, rustic motels and gracious hotels, to full-service, luxury resorts. Fly shops are numerous, stocked by local experts ready to advise and assist, while guides can be booked for trips throughout the area.

Boredom is the only thing unavailable in Ennis. Throughout the summer season the city hosts a series of events, including its renowned 4th of July Celebration Parade and a genuine, old-fashioned rodeo. In August, fly-fishing luminaries from around the US, flock to Montana to compete in the Madison Fly Fishing Festival. Athletes also find their way to Ennis to compete in the city’s Madison Trifecta, two shorter races followed by a full Marathon at 9000 feet, the highest elevation run in America. For the true sportsman, October falls in with the annual Hunter’s Feed. What’s caught, typically elk, moose deer, pheasant and bobcat, gets cooked on the streets and served up to hungry spectators.

Flanked by three grand mountain ranges, The Tobacco Root, Gravelly and Madison, Ennis is scenic and entertaining – truly an authentic, fly fisher’s haven.
Outfitter
 (10)
What do you think of when you hear "Montana?" Small towns? Cowboys? Cows? BIG TROUT?! The answer is D, "All of the above"! Montana is still the place it was 80 years ago, where a man's ... morehandshake means something and big trout thrive. Located in the "Trout Mecca" of Southwestern Montana, our location and our guide's experience allow us to guide on a number of world class rivers; the Madison, Jefferson, Ruby and Yellowstone rivers are arguably the best trout streams in the lower 48.

Whether you have never held a fishing pole in your life or if you've been fishing since you could walk, the versatile, select guides we employee at MFFT all live on, and spend all they're free time on, these select rivers. They know how satisfy ALL of our clients, from novice to pro.

But Montana is so much more than just a trout haven. With picturesque mountains, abundant wildlife and under a million people, you actually have to try to not enjoy our beautiful state. As longtime client and friend Don Patton once wrote me after a trip, "fish count is only one criteria, there are many more markers for success. We hit them all." Here at MFFT we strive to give our clients much more than just a fishing trip, we want to share our passion for fishing and our love of Montana with all of our guests and new friends.

Charles P. Graham

Owner-Montana Fly Fishing Trips

Montana Fishing Outfitter#10349
Type:
Fishing
Fishing Reports
Blown. May get a little clarity with colder temps last two days but not for long. At least three weeks, maybe four depending on weather
Fishing Water Report:
Date:
Saturday, 16 Apr, 2016
Payment
Cancellation Policy
Custom policy
  • Cancellations made 30 days before will be fully refunded.
  • Cancellations made 15 days before will be refunded 50% of the amount paid.
  • Cancellations made at a later date will not be refunded.
Payment directly with Jefferson River Float Trips with Montana Fly Fishing Trips.
10 reviews   0 comments
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Outfitter Review
1st trip on the river
Thanks for A very nice day on the river. Charlie introduced us to the fly-fishing with great patience and demonstrated his great expirience in the best way. ....and his local knowledge of the Madison river. He guided us to catch two fish, a lot of fun ....just impressive and nice. We give our best recommendations. BrittaJan Copenhagen.
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Outfitter Review
Art is a Fish Ninja!
My son and I just spent three days on the madison w/Art and we couldn't have asked for a better guide. We caught over 100 fish over those three days and Art works his A$$ off for us. He was more than a guide - he taught us about the river, the fish and the area. We fully enjoyed our time on the water with Art and we will defintely be booking future trips w/Art. Amazing time. It was bueno and goofy ... more all at the same time ;)
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What are you waiting for? Book a trip with Charlie!
I’ve had the pleasure of working with Charlie for over a decade and trust me, you are in for a spectacular day of fishing with him! Having managed an award winning Orvis Endorsed Fly Fishing Lodge, I’ve heard guests continually rave about Charlie day after day, and spent my winters chatting with guests as they aligned their entire travel schedule around his availability to ensure they spent every ... more day of their cherished fly fishing trip out on the water with him  Charlie has that perfect balance of enthusiasm coupled with knowledge and a determination to be the hardest working guide on the river. At just the right moment, he’s coaching you on technique and the next, he’s giving high fives for a job well done. Whether you are a novice or beginner, he knows how to get you onto fish, while having fun along the way. You’ll wish for time to standstill when you are out with him! So, what are you waiting for? Book a trip with Charlie and enjoy a fun and memorable fly fishing adventure!
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Wanna catch trout? Here's your guy...
I've been fishing in Montana for over a decade. Charlie Graham was my first guide and I've never looked back. In fact, it's at the point where I won't fish the Madison River (and surrounding rivers) without him. No one gets on the fish like Charles P. He knows where they are, what they're eating and how to get em'. Do yourself a favor and book this guy (just don't do it when I'm in town cause he's ... more mine:)
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Hardest working guide on the river.
My father took me to fish the Madison about ten years ago, and I fell in love. We have had many guides over the years but request only one year after year. Charlie Graham. I've never seen a guide row harder or get more excited at the sight of a big fat brown trout! He has improved my fishing skills immensely, and has the patience, knowledge, and drive to provide anyone with a world class day on the ... more river. Simply put, he's the man!
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The Fish Whisperer
Charlie is awesome. He took us out on the Madison when the weather was beautiful, but the water was moving fast. I was amazed at how well he battled physics (lots of weight in the boat if you know what I mean) to keep us moving at the right pace while directing us to the big ones. I believe the fish actually listen to him. He is an awesome guide and fun to be around. Looking forward to seeing him ... more again this May.
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Madison with friends for fun.
Charlie took me and a few friends down the Madison in early May last year. We're not experts by any means, and Charlie gave us all the advice we needed to make for a few wonderful days. We all caught Rainbows ( and a few Browns), and enjoyed more than a few laughs along the way. Charlie is a good guy and a great guide. I'll see him again in May for another trip down the Madison.
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Charlie is the fishing master
I don't think there is a single negative thing that could be said about Charlie. He is knowledgable, helpful, and and all around awesome guy. I have fished with many fantastic guides over the years, but absolutely no one can top Charlie. His positive attitude and willingness to try new set-ups keeps the fish practically jumping into the boat. I'm looking forward to fishing with him in the future.
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Great trip
Mom and I enjoyed our day on the river with Charlie very much. His guidance, patience, expertise and humor were more appreciated than I am able to say. It was a very special time for me to share with my 79 year old mom-and Charlie made it perfect! He has a wonderful way with people-to go from my boys to us so easily is a real skill! We all had the best time! Agnes Butler
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Charlie Grahm is my first choice guide every trip
My son, Jack, and I have been making trips to the Madison River Valley for nearly 10 years. Each year we book a stay at the Madison Valley Ranch and the Ranch knows that the second thing out of my mouth is "I want Charlie to guide us." Not only is he a great guide, working his butt off to get us to where the fish our, he has a sixth sense as to what fly to put on the line on certain parts of the river, ... more during certain parts of the day and, frankly, I think certain fish. He's a great partner in the boat and has become our friend. One year we decided to visit the ranch late in October at the end of the season. Charlie had taken a job at a local bar and restaurant. We didn't leave Ennis until we'd gotten there to say hello. It wouldn't have been a visit without that.
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