The last week of October was unusually warm this fall, so I decided to get in another few days of fishing and hiking in central Montana. I loaded the van and headed to Lewistown. Upon arrival, I immediately checked into the Yogo Inn, luckily getting a pool side room. My next choice would have been a room upstairs in the old depot section. These rooms are more spacious with unique decor, tall ceilings and crown moldings. I enjoy staying here, because it feels like home and the location is ideal.
Once settled in, I headed down the road to Brewery Flats for a few casts before sunset. It was a beautiful 80 degree day which is pretty unbelievable for this time of year. I rigged up and headed upstream to fish a couple of my favorite holes. After a couple of hours of casting and day dreaming, I headed back to the Yogo Inn for a swim and a soak in the hot tub, a great way to relax and unwind after a couple hard weeks of work and couple hours of casting, hooking and releasing fish.
After about 30 minutes, I realized how hungry I was getting, so I showered and headed down to The Stetson Lounge. John Hamilton happened to be playing that night in the lounge. I ordered a Stetson Burger and was Blown Away at the size! A full pound of beef, think about that. It was one of the greatest burgers I have ever eaten, stuffed with red and green peppers, topped with pepper jack cheese. After the great meal I sat back and enjoyed the music till 11 that evening. John is not only a talented musician but has the charisma to attract and entertain a crowd. It had been a full day and time for a much needed rest, it’s great to have a couple of beers and not worry about driving anywhere.
The next morning, I awoke completely refreshed, made a cup of coffee in the room, which was pretty good for motel brew. Took a hot shower and headed down to the restaurant for a fantastic breakfast and then on to my favorite stretch of stream.
I was another beautiful day on Big Spring Creek. I caught several browns and rainbows with the biggest being 15 inches. After an exciting day of fishing, I still had the urge to go for a hike, so I went back to change. The location of the Yogo Inn is ideal as the stream flows right alongside and there are several fishing access areas nearby as well as a massive trail system that goes for miles in all directions.’
I headed down the street and took the path back down to Brewery Flats, which I love. The path follows Big Spring Creek for several miles. Another favorite trail goes to The Charles M. Russell Wildlife Area’s Main Office, where you can view a couple of resident buffalo. This is a great place to get information on The Slippery Ann Area and other information of the area. There are miles of trails in and around town, which are great for hiking or mountain biking. There are also many trails in the nearby National Forests.
After walking several miles, photographing Big Spring Creek and the local fauna and wildlife, I headed back to the Yogo for another hot shower and on down to the Stetson Lounge. Wondering what the Chef Robert was cooking up for dinner and looking forward to relaxing to the sounds of John Hamilton.
I have to say the rooms at the Yogo Inn are very comfortable. The staff are very friendly and they go the extra mile to make sure your stay is comfortable. Can’t wait to come back.
The Yogo Inn offers a complete fly fishing package, from directions for heading off on your own adventure to arranging a complete tour of guides and lodging throughout Montana.
