What to Bring on Your Fly Fishing Trip

All fishing gear is provided. Rods, reels, flies, leaders, everything you need to actually fish comes with the trip. What you need to bring is personal gear for a day on the water in Montana. Here’s what that looks like.

Clothing

Layers are the key. River mornings in western Montana can be cold even in the middle of July. By noon it might be 80 degrees. Plan to peel things off as the day goes on.

• A warm base layer or fleece for the morning
• A mid layer like a light jacket
• A rain jacket, even if the forecast looks clear. Montana weather changes fast.
• Shorts or lightweight pants for warmer parts of the day
• Wool or synthetic socks for wading (cotton stays wet and gets cold)
• A hat with a brim. Sun on the water all day adds up.

Footwear and Wading

In summer, most folks wet-wade in sandals or old sneakers, which is the easiest way to stay cool on a warm day. For cooler spring and fall days, bring waders and wading boots if you have them, and let us know if you’d like to borrow a pair.

Sun Protection

This one catches people off guard. You’re on the water all day with sun reflecting off the surface. Sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, and a brimmed hat are the basics. Long-sleeved sun shirts are popular with repeat clients for a reason. Bring more sunscreen than you think you need.

Polarized sunglasses are worth mentioning separately. They cut the glare off the water and let you see fish. If you have a pair, bring them. If you don’t, it’s worth picking some up before the trip.

Food and Drinks

Half day trips include snacks and drinks. Full day trips include a full lunch on the river plus snacks and drinks throughout the day. You don’t need to bring food. If you have specific dietary needs or preferences, let us know when you book and we’ll make sure you’re taken care of.

If you want to bring your own snacks on top of what’s provided, go ahead. Just bring things in resealable bags or containers that pack out easily.

Camera and Phone

You’re going to want to take photos. Bring your phone or camera and consider a waterproof case or dry bag. Things get wet on boats. A lanyard or clip for sunglasses is smart too since losing them in the river is a real possibility.

What to Leave Behind

• Felt-soled wading boots (rubber soles help keep invasive species out of our rivers)
• Glass containers
• Anything you’d be heartbroken to lose or get wet

A Few More Things Worth Knowing

Bring your Montana fishing license. You can buy one online through Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks. Anyone 12 and older needs one. We’ll send you the link when you book.

Wear sunscreen before you leave the car. It’s easier to apply on dry skin than trying to do it on the boat with your hands already wet from the river.

If you’re on any medication or have any health considerations your guide should know about, mention it when you book. This stays between you and your guide.

Questions? Call or email and we’ll answer them before your trip.