SF&G Our Location

Our Location

We’re located in Columbus, Montana, a small town located in south-central Montana at the confluence of the Stillwater and Yellowstone rivers in the foothills of the Beartooth Mountains. We’re conveniently located only an hour’s drive west of Billings, which has an airport that provides excellent connecting service for most major airlines throughout the country.

Our Rivers

Yellowstone River
The Yellowstone River is the longest undammed river in the lower 48 states. From its origin in Yellowstone Park, the river meanders its way across southern Montana until it flows into the Missouri River near the North Dakota border. The primary stretch of river we use for float trips runs approximately 60 miles from up-river of Big Timber to below Columbus. Within this portion of the river, there are several different sections available to choose from. Each section provides its own unique fishing opportunities to float fish and enjoy new water with each cast, as well as numerous spots to stop and wade fish. Following winter ice out, there can be some excellent angling opportunities beginning in late March or early April and running into early to mid May. Runoff from mountain snow melt generally begins during late May and usually lasts through the month of June into early July. During this time, the river is virtually unfishable due to high and off-color water. Following runoff, the Yellowstone River offers some spectacular fishing lasting well into the fall, highlighted by “hopper” fishing that usually peaks in August and September and fall streamer fishing for pre-spawning Brown Trout that can last well into November.

Stillwater River
The Stillwater River originates high in the Beartooth Mountains on the north side of Yellowstone Park, and flows through the scenic Stillwater Valley until it merges with the Yellowstone River near Columbus. Although a smaller river in terms of size, the Stillwater, like the Yellowstone, is also a “freestone” river, and provides some fantastic angling opportunities. The Stillwater also offers several different sections of river to float and wade fish. The Stillwater can be a bit tempermental, as the water levels often fluctuate and can occasionally limit the ability to float sections of the river in late summer. The Stillwater usually affords incredible dry fly fishing prior to runoff from late March to early to mid-May. Once runoff subsides, the Stillwater is similar to the Yellowstone, and can provide excellent “hopper” fishing into September, and outstanding streamer fishing lasting well into the fall.

Lodging

There are several types of accommodations available in the area, from economy motels to family style cabins. Dining also runs the gamut. Coffee shops and small restaurants in the area provide an excellent meal at reasonable prices. Also, since you’re in Angus beef country, you’ll have an opportunity to enjoy an outstanding steak dinner at one of several notable steakhouse restaurants located nearby. Click here for some recommendations on lodging and dining. Not sure where to stay? Contact us and we can help you set up your accommodations.