This time of year we start getting a lot of calls and emails about the right gear to bring out for you Montana fly fishing trip. While fly fishing gear can vary depending on the time of year you are visiting us here are a few staples that you should remember to check off your list:
- Montana Fishing License – we highly recommend visiting the state website and purchasing your license PRIOR to you trip. https://app.mt.gov/Als/Index
- Rod & Reel (Line weights from 4 to 7 with floating fly lines, a 9 foot 6 wt is perfect for everything, but if you have a combination of two rods to fish with; like a 5 wt for spring creeks and a 6wt for big rivers and windy days it is even better) This is a broad subject that depends on the angler’s preferences and the type of water fished.
- Wading Boots – studded boots are not preferred when fishing out of a drift boat as they will damage the floors of the boats.
- Waders – breathable waders are the only way to go! If you would like to purchase waders we recommend Sweetwater Fly Shop for a full selection of fishing supplies.
- Rain Coat – should be taken even on clear days our mountain weather can change in a matter of minutes.
- Water Shoes or Sandals – for wet wading on warmer days.
- Fishing vest, fanny pack, or net – all optional.
- Long underwear or fleece pants for under your waders.
- Layers of Clothing for Hot and Cool weather.
- Warm socks.
- A Waterproof Bag for personal items you bring in the boat.
- Sunscreen.
- Hat – this not only provides better vision it protects you against hooks and fly lines.
- Sunglasses – quality polarized sunglasses are a must.
- Camera – for that big one!
- Cash for fishing licenses and tips.
Mother's Day Caddis Fishing on the Yellowstone River
Spring fly fishing in Montana on the Yellowstone River, Madison River, and the Spring Creeks of Armstrong, DePuy, and Nelson can be some of the best of the year. In fact many of our summer guests ask us when we get time to fish. The answer – spring time! While the weather can be variable the fishing is quite consistent. Those of you considering an early season get-away, here’s a rundown of what you can expect.
The weather and conditions are varied so come prepared for temperatures from the low 40′s to mid-60′s. On occasions there is snow, which should not stop your fishing, but if it does, this is also the prime time for wolf watching in the nearby Lamar Valley of Yellowstone National Park. Buffalo, elk, and other game, that grew weary over the harsh winter, often fall prey to the wolves at this time and the packs can be seen from the road! This wonder has drawn world-wide interest and many people are coming to our region specifically for this event.
The benefits of springtime travel in Montana have not caught on nationwide, but for the passionate community of people who love the West, it is the only time to be here. For “locals”, this early fishing season is a treasured un-crowded time unlike any other. It’s often been suggested Montana natives named it the “Mother’s Day Caddis Hatch” so they could have the best dry fly fishing for themselves for three weeks before.
As for what you can expect for the fishing:
A Beautiful spring time Cutthroat
March – early April bring us great midge and baetis fishing. The water is usually low and clear, so good presentation is the key to fishing success. That said, the fish are eager to eat after the long winter’s cold. Water temperatures warm and the fish get active. Warm afternoons are best, especially on cloudy days even if it’s snowing outside. The added bonus is that if the weather turns cold and snowy Bridger Bowl ski area is only 35 miles away – ski in the morning and then fish the afternoon hatch!
Mid April – early May really gets us excited. One of the most spectacular hatches anywhere in the world is right around the corner – the Mother’s Day Caddis hatch on the Yellowstone River. Describing this hatch, when it’s full blown, is almost impossible. You might think we’re exaggerating, but that’s why we’ve included some photos so you can judge for yourself. The river has an orange hue when the hundreds of thousands of caddis hatch in the afternoon. In the beginning stages of the hatch trout are eager to feed on these tasty morsels along the river banks and in back-eddies. While the caddis hatch gets most of the attention the March Brown’s can be just as spectacular. What trout wouldn’t want to eat a size 12 to 14 mayfly after a long winters slumber?
In an effort to get some of our long time summer fishing clients to get a taste of the greas Montana spring fishing we offer a 15% discount from our standard guided fishing rates. So if this sounds like an interesting time of year let us know and we can fill you in on more details. This opportunity is available from March until the first week of June.
