From its modest beginnings at Skinner Lake in the Beaverhead Mountains of southwest Montana, the Big Hole River flows 153 miles to its confluence with the Beaverhead River near Twin Bridges. Early explorers and settlers were drawn to the Big Hole by the sheer size, beauty, and richness of the high elevation valley or hole as the trappers called it. The Big Hole has been designated as a Blue Ribbon fishery and is one of the most heavily used fishing streams in Montana. The river remains free flowing for its entire course, adding to its uniqueness and charm. The Upper Big Hole contains the last stream-dwelling population of Arctic grayling in the lower 48 states, which has prompted many significant private partnerships and cooperative efforts to ensure the protection of this valuable population.