Montana Riverfront Resort Fort Smith, Montana

Details & Features

Located along one of the most iconic trout streams in the world, this legendary Montana fly fishing ranch was built, owned, and operated by the same family for over 30 years. Montana Riverfront Resort is a special opportunity to own a fully established, turn-key fly fishing and upland bird hunting destination in the heart of South-Central Montana. Set along the pristine Bighorn River—just five minutes from the launch point below Yellowtail Dam—the lodge offers immediate access to a classic tailwater fishery, famous for its cold, clear water and prolific populations of rainbow and brown trout. The river remains ice-free in the winter and stable in the heat of summer, making it a year-round fly fishing paradise. In addition to the river itself, guests can explore nearby Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area and Yellowtail Reservoir, both offering outstanding boating, fishing, and sightseeing opportunities. Surrounded by the rugged beauty of the Bighorn and Pryor Mountain ranges, this Montana fly fishing ranch blends outdoor adventure with longstanding hospitality and a respected sporting legacy—making it one of the finest recreational properties in the American West.

Lodges and Amenities

Set on 107 acres of immaculate land overlooking the Bighorn River, offers an exceptional combination of comfort, charm, and high-end functionality. The property is designed to immerse guests in the Montana experience, blending natural beauty with thoughtful amenities. A walking trail meanders from the lodge down to the riverbank, passing two spring-fed ponds sourced from freshwater flowing directly out of the hillside—a quiet testament to the property’s natural abundance.
Guest accommodations include seven spacious one-bedroom, one-bath cabins, each offering privacy, scenic views, and easy access to all lodge amenities. Outdoor features include a trap shooting area, two tranquil ponds, and a large firepit gathering space—perfect for evening drinks and conversation after a memorable day afield or on the water. There is also ample room throughout the 107 acres for additional improvements or future expansion.
At the center of the property is the Orvis-Endorsed Main Lodge, a thoughtfully designed structure that captures the spirit of Western hospitality. Guests are welcomed into a stunning lounge area anchored by a large river-stone fireplace. The commercial kitchen—with a recently upgraded hood system—serves a beautiful dining room that seats 16 and offers sweeping views of the river. Upstairs, a loft-style open space includes a bar, TV area, family games, and access to a patio deck ideal for cigar nights under the stars. The lodge also features an Orvis gear retail space, a shop for storage and equipment, and dedicated dog kennels to accommodate visiting hunting dogs.
A major highlight of the property is its private boat launch—believed to be the only one on the upper Bighorn River—offering unmatched convenience for guides and guests. This quarter-mile of direct river frontage is both a functional asset and a scenic jewel.
In addition to the main lodge’s infrastructure, the property includes a newly constructed owner’s residence. This home could easily transition to a manager’s house under new ownership, providing comfortable on-site housing and a seamless base of operations for a caretaker or lodge operator.

• IMPROVEMENTS:
• 107 acres with river views, spring-fed ponds, and walking trails
• Seven guest cabins, trap shooting area, firepit, and room to expand
• Orvis-Endorsed Main Lodge with dining room, bar, loft, and dog kennels
• Private boat launch, gear shop, and on-site owner’s residence
• LOCATION:
• South-Central Montana location
• 88 miles from Billings, 42 from Hardin
• Easy year-round access via Highway 313
• Secluded setting with nearby amenities