homesteaded in 1881

Bound for the wide open spaces of the western frontier, Sylvester Hanson chose wisely and settled in Montana upon a pristine chunk of land crisscrossed by the Smith River and surrounded by the Little Belt Mountains - thus establishing Bar Z Ranch.

Elmer Hanson, grandson of Sylvester, expanded the ranching operation considerably throughout the 70’s and 80’s increasing the total acreage to nearly 50,000. In 2002, just prior to Elmer’s passing, the ranch was divided amongst his three children who each own and operate their piece of Elmer’s legacy.

John’s ranch, which is home to the fishing operation, includes more than 10,000 of the prettiest acres in Meagher County. John acquired the Bar Z Cattle Company name in 2002 and continues to run a commercial cow/calf operation consisting of 500 cows and 100 yearling heifers. Today, the ranch headquarters sits just west of White Sulphur Springs.

John’s son Dave, and his wife Kelsy, now also help with operating Bar Z Riverside Ranch. In addition to outstanding fly-fishing, the ranch boasts a tremendous variety of wild animals.

We look forward to your visit.