Ends March 21st, 2026.
Upcoming Leadership Retreat in Missoula, Montana
Monday, Sept. 21st - Thursday, Sept. 24th, 2026
In the same mountains and rivers immortalized in the film A River Runs Through It, Catching Leadership invites you to slow down, look deeper, and rediscover what truly matters. Our 2026 leadership retreat near Missoula weaves together the artistry of fly fishing, the serenity of Montana’s wilderness, and the power of immersive executive coaching. Here, every cast becomes a metaphor, every moment on the water a chance to reconnect—with nature, with others, and with yourself.
Leaders will participate in a variety of activities, including, but not limited to: leadership development, guided fly fishing from drift boats, executive coaching, networking dinners, and fireside chats. Partnering with onsite river guides, anglers at every skill level will surely learn something new from an experienced crew. All fishing equipment and gear will be provided at the retreat, but leaders are welcome to bring their own if they prefer. Before attending the retreat, each leader will attend a pre-event kickoff call. After the experience, leaders will receive a 1-hour executive coaching call as part of the program. No past fly-fishing experience is required.
Leaders attending the retreat will enjoy an all-inclusive stay at The Lodge at Forest Grove, a modern 6,000-square-foot sanctuary tucked into the quiet beauty of Montana’s mountain foothills. Each of the six spacious bedrooms features an en suite bathroom, offering comfort and privacy throughout the experience. The lodge’s expansive great room—complete with a fully stocked bar, billiards table, fireplace, and arcade table—creates a warm, social atmosphere where conversations flow easily after a day on the river. Guests can step onto the wraparound porch to take in sweeping Montana views, gather around the outdoor fire pit, or enjoy yard games beneath the covered pavilion. Inside, a dedicated conference room supports group coaching and reflection sessions, while a cozy movie room offers the perfect space to unwind. Mornings begin with fresh coffee and a hearty breakfast as the day’s guides prepare just down the hill by the river. Whether heading out for adventure, exploring the hiking trails behind the property, journaling on the porch, or connecting with fellow leaders, your stay at Forest Grove is designed to feel effortless, with the Catching Leadership team ensuring every detail is taken care of.
The fishing lodge sits in the middle of over 400 miles of Blue Ribbon trout water and our experienced guides know how to put you on fish no matter the conditions. Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout, and Cutthroat Trout are all abundant and thriving in our area. You will see why Missoula, Montana is the Mecca for fly fishing in the West.
The lodge is ideally situated off the banks of the Clark Fork River just downstream from the Alberton Gorge. We will be close enough to Missoula to give us access to the Bitterroot and Blackfoot Rivers but far enough away to give you the true western Montana experience with the amazing Clark Fork River just out the front door.
All meals are prepared by a private chef onsite for retreat-goers throughout the entire experience.
For the single occupancy option, each leader will have their own bedroom and bathroom to unplug in their own private space. If leaders are willing to share a room, double occupancy is available at a reduced rate.
All fishing gear is provided for each retreat (drift boats, fly rods, reels, lines, etc.) Retreat-goers are always welcome to bring any of their own gear if they'd prefer!
Michael Leytem will lead the group through all the need-to-knows to prepare for the experience, while also giving everyone an opportunity to get to know each other before arriving in Montana.
Each leader will receive a 1:1 Executive Coaching session with Michael Leytem following the retreat, in addition to group coaching sessions during the experience.
Leaders will receive a copy of Michael's first released Amazon Bestseller, Catching Leadership, published in 2020.
Leaders will be a part of a group that will give them opportunities for networking dinners, fireside chats, and group coaching.
Leaders will receive a copy of the latest release by Michael Leyem, Keep Your Head In The Wind, published in February 2024.
As a thank you for attending, retreat attendees will be welcomed with retreat-themed swag to sport throughout the experience.
Prior to attending the retreat, leaders will complete a leadership assessment (CARLI) which will be used to create group and individual leadership reports to spark group conversations.
Retreat-goers will leave with unforgettable memories amidst scenic beauty, from thrilling catches to serene moments of camaraderie on and off the water.
Single Occupancy — $3,750
Double Occupancy — $3,000
Standard Pricing (After March 21, 2026):
Single Occupancy — $4,250
Double Occupancy — $3,500
*Not included: Airfare, parking, etc. to and from Missoula, MT.
FAQ section
You've got questions. We've got answers.
This upcoming retreat will be in Missoula, Montana where you will be staying at The Lodge at Forest Grove. The lodge is ideally situated off the banks of the Clark Fork River just downstream from the Alberton Gorge. We are close enough to Missoula to give us access to the Bitterroot and Blackfoot Rivers but far enough away to give you the true western Montana experience with the amazing Clark Fork River just out our front door. Attendees will fly into the Missoula International Airport (MSO) and Catching Leadership will provide a shuttle service to the lodge. You can check out where you will stay here: https://www.thelodgeatforestgrove.com/
The retreat will be held for 3 nights/4 days from Monday, Sept. 21st through Thursday, Sept. 24th, 2026. We will be fishing on Sept. 22nd and 23rd.
The fishing lodge sits in the middle of over 400 miles of Blue Ribbon trout water and experienced guides know how to put you on fish no matter the conditions. Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout, and Cutthroat Trout are all abundant and thriving in our area.
Although meals, lodging, and gear will be provided, you should plan on bringing a variety of layered outdoor clothing, depending on the weather. It is also highly recommended to bring a water bottle, as well as a notebook, any personal fishing gear, and anything else you may want to have with you for a weekend getaway.
In the past, multiple retreat-goers have had all or part of their trip sponsored by their employer. You may want to explore if your employer offers a training budget to help offset your enrollment cost.
No, professionals of all levels are welcome to attend!
Yes, if you need a payment plan option to attend this retreat, please email mleytem@catchingleadership.com.
Yes, but please reach out to Michael at mleytem@catchingleadership.com in advance to discuss accommodations and whether or not they will be participating in all activities.