"The river is a special place. A place to recreate. To cast a fly line
and perhaps catch a respectable trout, to whitewater raft, surf, kayak
or paddleboard. A place to bird watch, to learn, to wander and to
contemplate. It is also a place of peace and remembrance."

Blackfoot River Outfitters manager, Matthew Churchman, and his wife Laura lost their newborn son William Thomas on September 5, 2015. They celebrated his life with friends and family at the home of Blackfoot River Outfitters’ owners, John Herzer and Terri Raugland, along the banks of the Clark Fork River just a few days after losing William.

After losing William, Matthew and Laura were inspired to revive the Blackfoot River Outfitters Memorial Float, held in honor of John’s dad Moe Herzer and their longtime client and friend Steve Bryant.

This year, we would like to invite anyone and everyone to join us in remembering
all of those who have left us, knowing that they are never truly lost as we continue to honor their impact on our lives.

We also want to celebrate the beautiful adventure of life with friends and family. 
And we want to contribute in a meaningful way to the healthy and sustainable legacy Montana's rivers provide.