The Smith River begins near White Sulphur Springs, Montana, at the confluence of the North and South Fork Smith River. The river then twists and turns for more than 100 miles through remote and scenic landscapes before spilling into the Missouri River near Ulm, Montana. The upper section of the Smith River, between its origin and above the Smith River Fishing Access Site, flows through gently rolling prairie, flanked by the tall peaks of the Big Belt Mountains and Little Belt Mountains. It is beautiful country, with sweeping wide-open vistas and incredible views. Other than the small town of White Sulphur Springs, the area is also very remote. Agricultural fields surround the river in this section, with extensive brush along its bank. A number of pools are also found on this stretch. Generally, the Smith River flows at a slow to moderate pace in this section, depending on water levels. Just upstream from the Smith River fishing access site, the river twists and turns through a small canyon. The canyon, while small compared to the canyons found further downstream, is beautiful, with small, wooded hills flanking the river. As the canyon lies within state land, excellent access and camping exist. After the Smith River emerges from this small canyon, it continues twisting and turning through private land across the broad valley, with agricultural fields lining the riverbanks. The river travels in this fashion for nine miles until reaching the Camp Baker Fishing Access Site, which is the most popular put-in spot. Unfortunately, gaining access to the river can be a bit of a problem. The Smith River flows through private land for almost its entire distance. Wade fishing is difficult on the Smith River due to a lack of fishing access sites. As a result, the most popular and effective way to fish the Smith River is by canoe or raft.However, the Smith River is alone among other Montana Rivers, in that all parties wishing to float the Smith River need a permit. A drawing for the permit is held each February, with a limit of 9 float parties allowed to put in on the river on any given day. As a result, while access to the Smith River is difficult, the regulations moderate fishing pressure and allow for very long floats in relative solitude. All Species Present: Brook Trout, Brown Trout, Burbot, Fathead Minnow, Flathead Chub, Longnose Dace, Longnose Sucker, Mottled Sculpin, Mountain Sucker, Mountain Whitefish, Rainbow Trout, Stonecat, White Sucker, Yellow Perch, Common Carp.