Guides

Bighorn River Fishing Guides

Making Your Stay At Our Montana Fly Fishing Resort Perfect

Sean Fritzler

Director of Fly Fishing Guide Program
Sean is a member of the Crow tribe who grew up hunting and fishing here on the Crow reservation. Sean is a third generation hunting and fishing guide who has been with us for the last 28 years. Both Sean's Grandfather and Uncle worked for us here at the lodge for many years. This is where Sean gained most of his knowledge of the Bighorn river, and the surrounding area. Sean is also in charge of our guide program. With his extensive knowledge of what it takes to be an excellent guide, Sean has strategically put together a great team of guides to successfully take care of all your hunting and fishing needs.

Ray McCarn

Ray McCarn grew up on the banks of the Trinity, Klamath and Ell Rivers, amongst numerous others in Northern California. Ray made his way fishing and rodeoing to Montana where attended Montana State University, and became a cattle rancher on the Crow Reservation and a fly fishing guide on the famed Bighorn River. Ray is one of our elite top guides, bringing fly fishing to a whole new level with a blend of passion, years of experience and personality to the river each day. From the most experienced angler to a total beginner, you will surely have the best time learning and laughing.

Wayne Egbert

Wayne Egbert brings over 25 years of guiding experience to Bighorn River Resort. While growing up in Hardin, Wayne began fishing the Bighorn at age eleven so it was only natural he started guiding at age 18. Over the years, Wayne has gained extensive knowledge of the Bighorn fishery. He is also known for the fly patterns he creates. Wayno’s Cotton Candy is a staple in most Bighorn guide’s tackle boxes.

For Wayne, there is nothing more rewarding than teaching the art of fly fishing to a new fisherman and getting them “hooked” on the sport. When Wayne is not guiding, he can be found chasing a bugling bull elk during archery season, hunting big bucks or doing his part in keeping predators at bay during trapping season.

Tyrell Blake

I grew up in Idaho fishing and hunting my whole life. My passion for fly fishing began when I was 16, but even before that my Dad taught me everything I know in the mountains and streams where I grew up. I came to Montana to guide fly fishing in 2016 on the Bighorn. I made lots of friends and met my wife Ashley. Now I continue my dream job of guiding with a family of my own in Montana!

Ryan Petis

Bio Coming Soon!

Wyatt Rivers Skunkcap

Wyatt Rivers Skunkcap is a member of the Crow Tribe of Indians and a descendant of the Blackfeet Nation. Growing up in the foothills of the Pryor Mountains, Wyatt developed a love for the outdoors. His passion for flyfishing came at the young age of 9. He was lucky to have a well-respected uncle that invested in teaching him the gifts of the great outdoors and the art of flyfishing. Guiding is a passion for Wyatt and has been his dream from a young age. Wyatt’s says that “The Bighorn River is the greatest place in the world”.

Cody Mack

I've been on the Bighorn River for three years and have been guiding professionally for five.

I was born and raised in Billings and have been fishing local Montana rivers and streams my entire life. I was trained on the Bighorn River by a professional guide of over 30 years. Although I didn't start fly fishing until later in my life it quickly became more of an obsession than a hobby, and now a dream job.

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"The quality of the hunting and fishing are world-class"
The three trips that I had experienced with you at Forrester’s are some of the finest memories of my life. The quality of the hunting and fishing are world-class…the bottom line is that I can’t wait to come back again!

- Johnny Miller
"Exceptional Experience"
My parents and I spent 4 fabulous days at Forrester's Bighorn River Resort. We caught lots of good-sized trout and had the most relaxing and enjoyable vacation. We hope to return there this fall or next year. The lodge and lodging was first class, the food was exceptional, the staff was wonderful, and the fly fishing with their guides Jaime Anderson and Jim Wilkins was fantastic! My parents are beginner fly fishers, and I had never fly fished before. Thankfully, our hardworking, patient, and enthusiastic (and humorous) guides were really excellent instructors who helped us master the basics. Thank you to Fran and Nick, Chefs Frank, Fran and Leanne, Jean, Matt, and the wonderful staff at Forrester's for a vacation that exceeded all our expectations.

- Stephen B.
"We will be back next year for another adventure."
Second trip to Forrester's this past June -- once again, it was everything we hoped it would be and more. We enjoyed our first trip so much last year, that we returned this spring with 7 more of our friends (total of 10). Nick and Francine are incredibly generous hosts and in my experience, you won't find a better combination of quality fishing, spectacular views, comfortable accommodations and five-star dining anywhere else. Frank (head chef) turns out meals that rival anything you can find in the top big-city restaurants and the food was one of the many reasons we came back for a second season. Of course, the fishing, quality guides and great location were factors too. Book this place with confidence and enjoy your Montana fly fishing experience, whether you're a beginner or a seasoned angler! We will be back next year for another adventure.

- Guest
"This place is a truly top notch"
This place is a truly top notch in every way possible! Amazing staff, guides and ammeneties!! I will recommend to anyone.

- Mike A.
"Novice or expert, you’ll succeed."
With thousands of fish per mile, and the guide to put you on them, novice or expert, you’ll succeed.

- Tim Boyle
"You wont be disappointed"
Nick and Fran do a very nice job. You wont be disappointed.

- Jeremy D.
"This is the place to be!!"
We had a great time during our stay at Forrester's. The cabins are comfortable and clean and the main lodge is beautiful and a great place to relax at the end of the day. We had two different guides, both knowledgeable and patient. The food is incredible..each day tops the last, including wonderful coolers packed for a day on the river. The hosts are experienced, available and intent on insuring that you have what you need and that you have a great time. Highly recommend this lodge!!

- Edwd
"This place is awesome."
This place is awesome. Picturesque location overlooking the river, very close to town and the dam where you put in for fishing. The cabins are neat, clean, and well appointed. This is where we will stay every time we are in Fort Smith to fish the legendary Big Horn River.

- Mark M.

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Where Every Moment is Exceptional

Unparalleled Luxury
Experience the epitome of luxury at Forrester's Bighorn River Resort, where every detail is meticulously curated to provide guests with a lavish and unforgettable retreat amidst the stunning landscapes of Montana.
Culinary Excellence
Indulge in the finest cuisine at Forrester's Bighorn River Resort, where our expert chefs create culinary masterpieces using locally sourced ingredients, promising a gastronomic journey that delights the senses.
Tailored Experiences
At Forrester's Bighorn River Resort, we specialize in crafting personalized adventures, ensuring each guest enjoys tailored excursions tailored to their preferences and skill levels.

Book Your Stay

Visit our world-class Montana hunting & fishing lodge!

Forrester's Bighorn River Resort, perched above Montana's Bighorn River, offers unparalleled luxury hunting and fly fishing experiences amidst breathtaking vistas, private riverbanks, and deluxe accommodations, making it the ultimate destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking unforgettable adventures in the untamed Montana foothills.

Book Your Stay

Contact 406-333-1449

Address

40.754 Hwy 313
Fort Smith, MT 59035

Map & Directions

Hours

Monday - Friday 7am - 7pm
Saturday - Sunday 7am - 7pm

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