Questions About Guided Fly Fishing in Missoula

Here are the questions we hear most often before people book. If something isn’t covered here, just call or email and we’ll give you a straight answer.

Do I need experience to book a guided fly fishing trip?

No. A lot of the people we take out have never held a fly rod. Our guides spend time on the basics before you get on the water and coach you through the day. The rivers around Missoula are productive enough that most beginners catch fish. Some catch a lot of fish. You don’t need to know anything coming in.

Do I need a Montana fishing license?

Yes. Montana requires a fishing license for anyone 12 and older. You can buy one online through Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks before your trip. Day licenses are available and inexpensive. Don’t let this be the thing that slips through the cracks.

What’s included in a guided trip?

All gear is included. Fly rods, reels, flies, leaders, and terminal tackle. You don’t need to bring anything to fish. Half day trips include snacks and drinks. Full day trips include a full streamside lunch plus snacks and drinks throughout the day. We take care of transportation to and from the put-in and take-out.

Will I actually catch fish?

We can’t promise a number, but the rivers around Missoula hold a lot of fish and our guides know them well. Most guests catch fish. On a good day on the right river at the right time of year, you might catch a lot of fish. Fishing is fishing and some days are slower than others, but you’re going to be in good hands on good water.

What if it rains?

We fish in the rain. Light rain often makes for great fishing. If conditions are genuinely dangerous, we’ll reschedule at no charge. Montana summer weather moves fast and usually clears. Bring a rain jacket regardless.

Can kids come?

Yes. We run family trips regularly and our guides are good with kids. Younger kids usually do best on a half day trip. Three to four hours on a beautiful river with a few fish to hand is a great day for a kid. Older kids and teenagers often do great on full day trips. Let us know their ages when you book and we’ll set up the day accordingly.

How many people can book together?

Each boat fits one or two anglers with one guide. If your group is larger than two, we’ll set up multiple boats. We cap the whole operation at six boats a day, so if you’re bringing a big group, reach out early to make sure we can accommodate everyone on the same day.

How far in advance should I book?

For June, book two to three months out. June is our busiest month and popular dates fill up fast. Spring and fall have more availability. If you’re trying to plan around a specific hatch or event, the earlier the better. We’d rather tell you a date is open than turn you away.

What’s the cancellation policy?

A $150 deposit holds your dates. It’s fully refundable up to 30 days before your trip. Inside 30 days, deposits are non-refundable except in cases of weather that makes the trip unsafe, in which case we reschedule at no charge.

What should I wear and bring?

Layers. Missoula mornings on the water can be cold even in July, and afternoons warm up fast. A rain jacket, sun protection, sunglasses with UV protection, and a hat are the basics. We have a full packing list on our What to Bring page. All fishing gear is provided.

What river will we fish?

We’ll talk through that with you when you book. The right river depends on the time of year, what’s hatching, current conditions, and what kind of fishing experience you’re after. We fish the Bitterroot, Blackfoot, Clark Fork, Rock Creek, and the Missouri River near Craig. Each one is worth knowing and each one has a different character. Your guide will put you on the best option for your dates.