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.