Spring has arrived, and last month Cottonwood Camp in Fort Smith, Montana, opened for the 2023 spring fly-fishing season. Fly fishing is enjoying renewed popularity as a new generation rediscovers the sport’s rich, soulful traditions.
The commercial fishing industry is valued at roughly $5.6 billion globally, with growing opportunities across fishing vessels, aquaculture and fish production. Recreational fishing is expanding as well: in the United States, participation in fly fishing has increased over recent years to more than 7 million anglers. The sport is also seeing broader diversity — women now make up about 36 percent of U.S. fly-fishing participants.
© JET Hospitality
Cottonwood Camp, part of the JET Hospitality collection, focuses on alternative lodging that connects guests with the outdoors. Located on 18 acres along the Bighorn River, the property offers prime access to some of Montana’s best trout fishing. The Bighorn is a tailwater-fed river that rarely freezes and is widely regarded as a top destination for fly fishermen. Recent improvements to trout flows have eased restrictions, and early projections for the 2023 season estimate roughly 1,000–2,000 fish per mile, including fish in the 10–12 inch range and an additional class of 8-inch fish.
© JET Hospitality
Cottonwood Camp welcomes anglers of all skill levels. The property features experienced fishing guides, boat rentals, a fully stocked fly shop and transportation services. The Fly Shop carries a broad selection of gear, along with curated items like premium cigars and locally sourced buffalo steaks for guests seeking a complete riverside experience.
Accommodations include custom cabins with full kitchens, RV-ready sites with full hookups and newly added glamping tents. The camp’s Western character reflects its history tied to the construction of the Yellowtail Dam, and it sits adjacent to the 300-acre Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area, making it an ideal base for outdoor exploration.
© JET Hospitality
Rates for rustic two-person cabins start at about $145 per night in May and rise modestly through summer. Cottonwood Camp offers boat rentals, fly-fishing lessons, guided excursions and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. It’s a great choice for adults and families seeking a classic Western getaway with cookouts, games and river recreation. Depending on the season and accommodation type, two-night minimum stays may apply for RVs, tents and cabins.