River Dance

Fishing in Three Forks. 

One cannot mention Three Forks and autumn in the same sentence without conjuring up images of the big brown and rainbow trout that begin their fall calorie glut in the Gallatin, Madison, and Jefferson rivers. Float from any of the accesses on the lower Gallatin, Madison, or Jefferson through to Headwaters State Park and bring along the big bugs. Double Bunny Leaches, Muddler Minnows, and Wooly Buggers work great, as do many of the other baitfish, leech, and crawfish imitations. Use heavier tippets and leaders—in the deeper holes sink-tip lines wouldn’t be out of the question. For more information on fishing in the Three Forks area contact Bob’s Hook, Line & Sinker at 285-4201 or Montana Fish, Wildlife, and & Parks at www.fwp.mt.gov .

Can you say “cast and blast”? The waterfowl hunting around the Three Forks and Headwaters area is great—just remember to always ask first to hunt and fish on private land. River and land borders can be confusing, so be safe rather than sorry. If water and luck don’t factor into your idea of a good time when it comes to hunting, there is the Whispering Wind Hunt Club, 16 miles west of downtown Three Forks. They offer a variety of put-and-take hunting options for pheasants, Hungarian and Chukar partridge, as well as quail. Shooting season begins September 1. For more info contact Whispering Wind Ranch at 285-6715 or email [email protected]. Another great option for private upland bird hunting is Grey Cliffs Ranch (formerly Headwaters Upland Game), just off the Madison River south of Three Forks. Call them at 285-6512 or visit greycliffsranch.com.

All of this hunting and fishing can work up quite an appetite, and there is no better place in the Three Forks area to fill an empty belly than the Wheat Montana Bakery and Deli. Opening at 6 am, this locals’ favorite has some of the best biscuits and gravy around—not to mention breakfast bagels and a plethora of baked goods that will provide essential calories for your day afield. Wheat Montana will also pack you a deliciously substantial lunch. For more information and some great recipes visit them on the web at wheatmontana.com.

Of course Three Forks always rolls out her best on December 1st for the annual Christmas Stroll. From 5 to 9 pm locals and neighbors line the streets for the; tree lighting, crowning of the King and Queen, fireworks display, hay-rides, magic shows, and of course the community cookie exchange. These as well as many other events and activities make Three Forks a great way to round out the autumn season with friends and family.