What is the best time of year for fly fishing in Montana?

Montana fly fishing season runs May through October on most rivers, including the Flathead, Clark Fork, Blackfoot, and Yellowstone — all waters guided by Riverstone Outfitters. Peak dry-fly fishing is July through September, with excellent hatch activity and warm weather. September and October offer fewer crowds and aggressive pre-winter feeding. The Missouri River is the exception: Riverstone guides it year-round, making it ideal for winter or early-spring trips. Book early for summer dates, as guide availability is limited.

Do I need to bring my own fly fishing gear?

No personal gear is required. Riverstone Outfitters provides all equipment: fly rods, reels, waders, wading boots, flies, tippet, and a landing net. All skill levels are welcome — guides provide casting instruction on every trip. The only item clients must obtain separately is a Montana fishing license, which is required by state law and costs $15/day for a non-resident daily license, available online through Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks. Dress in layers appropriate for weather; waders are provided over your clothing.

What is Riverstone Outfitters’ cancellation policy?

Riverstone Outfitters requires a 50% deposit at booking; the balance is charged automatically 7 days before your trip. Cancellation policy: 30+ days before your trip — deposit refunded minus a $30 fee; 8–29 days before — deposit is non-refundable (refund issued only if the slot is rebooked); 7 days or less — full trip cost is non-refundable. Credit card processing fees are non-refundable in all cases. If Riverstone cancels due to unsafe weather or unfishable water conditions, clients receive a full reschedule or refund. No-shows are charged in full.

What should I expect on a guided fly fishing trip with Riverstone Outfitters?

A Riverstone Outfitters guided trip is a full-day float with an expert local guide on rivers including the Flathead, Clark Fork, Blackfoot, Yellowstone, or Missouri. Trips are 1–2 anglers per guide and boat; larger groups are accommodated by adding guides. All gear is provided (fly rods, reels, waders, wading boots, flies, tippet, landing net). Guides tailor instruction to every skill level — beginners receive casting lessons, experienced anglers get advanced coaching. Guests must bring a Montana fishing license ($15/day non-resident daily). Trips run May through October on most rivers; the Missouri River is guided year-round.

Are Riverstone Outfitters trips suitable for kids or non-anglers?

Yes. Riverstone Outfitters offers several family-friendly, beginner-accessible experiences. The Flathead Lake Fishing Charter, Wild Horse Island Boat Tour, and the combined Flathead Lake Charter + Wild Horse Island combo trip require no fishing experience and welcome guests of all ages, including kids and non-anglers. River fly fishing trips are also open to all skill levels, with guides providing instruction from the first cast. All gear is included on every trip. A Montana fishing license ($15/day non-resident daily) is required only for guests who are fishing.

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Montana's Premier Guided Fly Fishing Experiences

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World-Class Fishing on Flathead Lake

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Flathead Lake Charter + Wild Horse Island Tour - Riverstone Outfitters

Wild Horse Island Adventure + Fishing Charter

Experience the best of Flathead Lake - explore Wild Horse Island's majestic wild horses and pristine trails, then cast your line for trophy trout and other species. The ultimate Montana day on the water.

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Choose your Montana fishing adventure. From world-class fly fishing on pristine rivers to scenic charters on Flathead Lake, we offer unforgettable guided experiences for all skill levels.

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Expert Montana Fishing Guides

Based in the heart of Montana's Flathead Valley, Riverstone Outfitters provides world-class guided fly fishing experiences and lake charters on the region's most pristine waters. Our expert guides know the waters like the back of their hands and are passionate about sharing Montana's incredible fishing with anglers of all skill levels.

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Most Popular Trips

Our most-booked fishing experiences. These trips offer the perfect combination of stunning scenery, excellent fishing, and expert guidance.

Riverstone Outfitters

Missouri River Fly Fishing Trip

$700.00

Riverstone Outfitters

Flathead River Fly Fishing Trip

From $500.00

Riverstone Outfitters

Flathead Lake Charter + Wild Horse Island Tour

From $1,200.00

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Flathead Lake Fishing Charter

From $500.00

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Book online or call us to customize your perfect trip. Our expert guides and team are here to answer questions and ensure every detail is exactly what you're looking for. Plus, optional trip protection gives you peace of mind so you can focus on the adventure ahead.

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Fishing Adventures Across Montana

From the crystal-clear waters near Glacier National Park to the legendary Missouri River, we guide trips throughout Montana's premier fishing destinations.

Flathead River

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Clark Fork River

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Field Notes

Check out our latest info, fishing reports, and gear reviews!

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Montana's Premier Guided Fly Fishing Experiences

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Fishing Adventures Across Montana

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