Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to visit Montana AND to catch fish?
We always say the best time to come is 'when you can.' However true that is, there is no denying the summer and fall months are the most consistent fishing. Beginning in late May and early June we begin to see hatches of considerable size on most rivers. Because of these hatches and the abundance of food they provide, the fish are more 'on the feed' for a longer duration. Hatches of substantial size will run through October.
During summer it is common to see other anglers. More and more clients are coming in the spring (March, April, and May) and late fall (October and November) to experience the solitude so often associated with our great pastime. It can be a trade-off though, as the daily feeding duration of fish is not as long as in summer, but many times the feeding tends to be more intense during that time.
If I come anytime from March to May or in October or November, what will the weather be like?
Weather can change by the half-hour. Bring sunscreen and raincoat no matter when you come. We have had snow in August and sunburns in November. Typical temperatures range from the 30's to 60's in April through June and September through November and 60's to 80's in July through August. The best advice is to call us the week before you are coming and we might have an idea about what to expect for weather. The best way to beat the weather is with a good attitude. We've had some of our best fishing in the nastiest weather and we've had some of our worst fishing in the even more nastiest weather!
What clothing should I bring? Do I need polarized glasses?
Polarized glasses, or 'blue-blockers', are a must! As for clothing, think in layers. We have large temperature swings, so it is always nice to be able to add or remover a layer when the temperature dictates. Fleece, polypro long underwear, and a raincoat are all essentials. A wide-brimmed hat is also important. For sun and for glare reduction.
Early and late season days can be cold, so neoprene or breathable waders are essential. They can be either boot-foot or used with felt-soled wading boots. In summer 80 and 90 degrees days are common and we typically in the driftboat or raft most of the day, so waders would be hot and uncomfortable. Therefore, we 'wet wade.' Wet wading means wearing shorts or pants. Many manufactures make light-weight quick drying pants that are great for sun protection and dry quickly.
You don't have a lodge, right? So, where will I stay?
Montana Fishing Outfitters does not operate a lodge. We don't like to be tied down to one particular river; we are free to travel to the rivers that are fishing best. Because we are typically fishing the same rivers at the same time year-after-year we have arranged for lodging at those locations. Options run through the entire spectrum from the budget-tight 'no-tell-motel' to the elaborate and pampered luxurious. A detailed list is sent to you upon booking. We are happy to make reservations and arrangements, but you are always free to make your own lodging plans. Either way, we will be ready to pick you up at your accommodations and hit the river.
What is there for non-fishing guests?
A better question would be what isn't there for non-fishing guests. Depending on where our fly-fishing adventure takes us, non-fishing activities that can be arranged include horseback riding, white-water rafting, scenic hikes, Lewis & Clark historical tours, art galleries, live-theatre, mountain biking, and many others.
What fly rod and reel outfit should I bring?
For driftboat and raft fishing we recommend a 5 weight or a 6 weight. In the fall we might also suggest a 7 weight for casting weighted streamers. For our secret creeks and spring creeks, you might want to bring that 3 weight you've been wanting to fish. For fly lines, weight forward floating lines are the norm. Sinking lines are sometimes nice to have if we are fishing streamers, but not essential. Be sure to have plenty of backing on your reel!
What about flies, fishing licenses, and other equipment?
All of our guides provide flies for you. For a general rule, it is typical to use approximately 15 flies per angler per day of fishing (we leave some in trees, some in fish, but hopefully none in each other!). Please be encouraged to bring and use your own flies and even show your patterns to your guide. As guides, we love to look into fly boxes. Many times we look into a clients' fly box and say, 'Ohhh, that looks good let's try that', and one cast later: fish on!
There are many excellent fly shops close to all of the waters we fish, so any equipment discrepancies can be made good at anytime.
A Montana license is required by law on any water we may fish. They are available are at local flyshops. The minimum two-day license is $15.00 and each additional 2 days is $10.00. A nonresident season license is $45.00, plus a $5.00 conservation fee.
How many guides do you work with and who will be guiding me?
We typically don't hire more than 6 guides and often turn away trips once our core group is booked. We are VERY picky in choosing who we hire. We know what this trip means to you. They are all licensed professionals who have made a commitment to customer service and resource conservation. Their intimate knowledge of the local waters is priceless and their fishing skills are top-rate. But, even better than their fishing skills is their ability to instruct, row a boat, and put you onto feeding fish. Our guides are wonderful teachers when it comes to instructing beginners and are always innovating new tips and techniques to share with expert anglers. Here's more information about our guides.
What is the guide to client ratio?
On all float trips there is one guide per two clients in the same party. In some wade trip instances we will have three clients to one guide, but only per your approval.