Montana is home to some of the finest public rivers and streams in the world, and they remain a joy to fish. But for those looking for something truly unique, there are also private waters—rarely fished stretches of ranch streams and lakes that offer a level of solitude and exclusivity you won’t find elsewhere. Access to these waters is limited, often just a handful of days each year, and they are offered at a premium price.

Here, days on the water are designed to be unforgettable. Many of these properties provide not only pristine, wadeable streams but also full-service experiences that can include two expert guides and even a private cook. Some waters are known for their sheer numbers of trout, while others offer the chance to pursue a true, wild trophy.

I fish these waters only a few times each season, often alongside my longtime friend Lee Kinsey of Secluded Waters. A native Montanan, Lee has spent decades cultivating relationships with landowners across southwestern Montana, opening doors to some of the most intimate and exclusive fly fishing in the state. Together, we can arrange guided days or even hosted trips that reveal a side of Montana few ever get to see.

While Montana’s public waters remain legendary, going the extra mile for access to these private fisheries offers a rare chance: unpressured fish, secluded settings, and an experience that feels like stepping back in time.

Each summer I partner with my good friend, Lee Kinsey, to lease a select handful of private ranches across Montana. These properties are exclusive, wild, and steeped in Western character — offering guests the rare opportunity to experience untouched water in complete solitude. Ranging from intimate valleys to sprawling 60,000-acre landscapes, these ranches hold private lakes, winding meadow streams, and hidden stretches of trout water that see virtually no outside pressure.

Just two to three hours from Bozeman, each ranch provides a setting where you can slow down, breathe, and fish at your own pace. Accommodations vary by property, from brand-new luxury four-bedroom cabins to historic ranch houses that have been standing for generations. No matter the setting, comfort, privacy, and authenticity are always guaranteed.

For groups of up to six guests, I arrange a private chef and seasoned guide, ensuring every detail is handled — from the first cast to the last glass of wine by the fire. These trips are ideal for families, close friends, or small groups who want the freedom of a private Western experience without sacrificing comfort, great food, and expert instruction.

Fishing these ranches isn’t just about numbers or size — it’s about place. It’s about mornings in quiet valleys, trout rising under alpenglow, and days that unfold with no rush, no audience, and no competing boats. It’s Montana the way Montana is meant to be experienced: privately, quietly, and fully immersed.