Bob Marshall Expedition

Bob Marshall Thru-Hike

An epic thru-hike of the South Fork of the Flathead River.

The Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex consists of over one million acres of roadless wilderness spread over four National Forest Ranger Districts. Approximately 25 miles from the nearest trailhead, Youngs Creek and Danaher Creek come together to form the South Fork of the Flathead. From there, the South Fork flows north, dissecting the "Bob" for almost 40 river miles before exiting the wilderness area on its way to the Hungry Horse Reservoir. This is one of the most pristine fisheries in the US, and the native west slope cutthroat eagerly rise to dry flies in crystal clear water. The cutthroat don't get huge, but double-digit days of healthy dry fly fish in the 12-20 inch range are the norm. If it's something huge you're after, pack an 8-weight because the south fork is also home to bull trout, a native species of char that can grow well over the 30" mark. Due to challenges like hybridization with introduced brook trout and habitat loss/fragmentation, these migratory fish have been added to the threatened species list. The Bob Marshall was designated wilderness in 1964, and without the competition from nonnative fish or habitat loss from roads and other human development, the South Fork is home to one of the healthiest bull trout populations in Montana. It is also the only river where anglers can legally target bull trout. With the help of a mandatory Catch Card, biologists hope to learn more about this threatened species and restore this apex predator throughout its native range.

After we exit the backcountry, we will cap off our trip with an overnight float on the Blackfoot River.

The Bob Marshall Expedition is our longest backcountry expedition. At almost 70 miles over 9 days, this trip won't be easy, but it will be epic.

Upcoming Trips

No trips found.

Ages
Entering 10th Grade
Entering 11th Grade
Entering 12th Grade
Entering College Freshman
College Student
Community Service
5 Hours
What to Bring

We have put together a list of all that you will need for a successful and comfortable expedition. We offer a rental program for most of the big ticket items like fly rods, reels, sleeping bags, etc.. If you are already enrolled, you can rent gear by logging into your account at: https://lillard.campintouch.com/v2/login/login.aspx?ReturnUrl=%2f and navigating to Forms & Documents —> Rental Options.

Ready to Enroll?

Click "Enroll Now" or give us a call to get started. You can also send us an email at [email protected].

If you have any questions you can Request Information and we will contact you soon with answers.

Lillard Fly Fishing Expeditions was started in 2010 as a graduate thesis for my Master's Degree in Environmental Conservation Education at NYU. The operating premise was simple - by coupling amazing wilderness fly fishing camps for teens with environmental education and service learning we can help inspire future generations of fly fishing conservationists. We have been growing our unique list of trips and experiences ever since.

When it comes to choosing a summer program for your teen the options are endless. For the teen who loves to fish, be outside, and has a strong sense of adventure we have made the choice easy. We are the leader in teen fly fishing adventures and are dedicated to providing the best backcountry fly fishing experience with opportunities for teens to engage in leadership training, community service, and backcountry camping.

Sincerely,

Will Lillard signature

Will Lillard, Founder/Director/Guide

Contact Us

[email protected]

Lillard Fly Fishing Expeditions
2540 King Road
Pisgah Forest, NC 28768

(828) 577-8204