King trip is another option (called Chinook here) They're a bit tastier. Higher in oil content and if cooked just right SUPER tender and flavorful. Nothing wrong with Silvers - They'd probably be second on my list. I think the King trips are full day and a bit more expensive. Will check it out! Usually go out of Depoe Bay.
When I was in Montana running sales appointments about 20 years ago, my final appointment was in Missoula. Heading south back toward Idaho, that highway had a gorgeous river running alongside. Brought my fishing pole, saw some guys fishing in a real accessible, slow moving section and headed down. Caught a REALLY nice rainbow on a spinner in less than an hour (3.5 pounds my guess). Cleaned it and picked up some ice for the trip back to Boise.
I didn't have a Montana fishing license (only Idaho) and honestly didn't think about it. Prolly lucky I wasn't busted.
Pretty sure that was the Bitterroot. Does that sound right?
Yeah, that's the Bitterroot. Ive fished pretty close to that picture there. Also, it branches off to the west fork of the Bitterroot which takes you up to painted rocks lake. Theres some excellent fishing up in there. 3.5 pounds?! That's a nice now!