Montana · Fishing
Fishing in White Sulphur Springs, Montana
White Sulphur Springs sits in the Smith River valley in central Montana, and the fishing around town reflects that geography: a mix of high-country lakes tucked into the Big Belts and Castles, and one of the most storied float rivers in the state.
6 spotsUpdated dailyFree to access
View on mapFishing · 6 spots
White Sulphur Springs sits in the Smith River valley in central Montana, and the fishing around town reflects that geography: a mix of high-country lakes tucked into the Big Belts and Castles, and one of the most storied float rivers in the state. The Smith River at Camp Baker Access is the headliner, a hard-rated fly fishery at 4,200 feet where brown trout and rainbow trout hold in cold, clear water that demands accurate casting and some patience with technical presentations. If wading a demanding river isn't what you're after, the area's lake options give you real alternatives — Edith Lake, Ayers Reservoir, Alkali Lake, and the water near Thompson Guard Station all offer lake fishing without the permit lottery and planning overhead that the Smith River float requires. The Calf Creek Cabin stretch adds river fishing access for those who want moving water at a more approachable pace. With six active fishing spots in and around White Sulphur Springs, you're not dealing with crowds, but you are dealing with real Montana conditions: variable weather, unpaved access roads, and fish that haven't been stocked into submission. Come with the right gear and realistic expectations, and this area will hold up.
Frequently asked questions
What fish species can I expect to catch near White Sulphur Springs?
The Smith River at Camp Baker Access holds brown trout and rainbow trout and is the best-documented fishery in the area. The lakes — Edith Lake, Ayers Reservoir, and Alkali Lake — are not species-specified in current listings, so contact Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks before your trip to confirm what's present and whether any stocking has occurred recently.
How hard is the fishing on the Smith River at Camp Baker?
It's rated hard. The Smith at Camp Baker rewards anglers who can mend line well and read water, and it's not a great spot for beginners to learn on. If you're newer to fly fishing, the lake options around White Sulphur Springs are a better starting point while you get your bearings in the area.
Do I need a special permit to fish the Smith River here?
The Smith River float below Camp Baker requires a separate permit through Montana FWP's lottery system, which fills up well in advance. Fishing the Camp Baker access area itself may have different rules, so check directly with Montana FWP for current access and permit requirements before you go.
When is the best time of year to fish around White Sulphur Springs?
Late spring through early fall is the primary window, but runoff on the Smith River can push fishing conditions later into June depending on snowpack. Summer mornings and evenings are typically the most productive times of day on both rivers and lakes, when temperatures are lower and fish are more actively feeding near the surface.
What gear should I bring for the lake fishing options like Edith Lake or Ayers Reservoir?
A medium-action spinning rod with a selection of small spinners, spoons, and PowerBait covers most lake fishing scenarios in this region. If you're fly fishing the lakes, a 5-weight with a sinking or sink-tip line will get you deeper where fish hold during warmer parts of the day. Check road conditions before heading out, as access to some of these lakes involves unpaved forest roads that can be rough or seasonally closed.
