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.

Field Notes - Montana Fly Fishing Blog | Riverstone Outfitters

You choose the best, and we'll do the rest!

Questions? Talk with one of our pros 406-607-1165

fishing spots fishing tips flathead lake Flathead lake fishing guided fishing trips guided trips montana fishing trips Montana fishing vacation

fishing spots
fishing tips
flathead lake
Flathead lake fishing
guided fishing trips
guided trips
montana fishing trips
Montana fishing vacation

April 26, 2026 Riverstone Outfitters 6 min read

Flathead Lake Fishing Charters: Everything You Need to Know

Flathead Lake holds the largest wild lake trout in Montana. Here's everything you need to know about booking a guided charter on this spectacular Rocky Mountain fishery.

February 20, 2026 Riverstone Outfitters 8 min read

Northwest Montana Fishing Report - February 20, 2026

Current fishing conditions for Northwest Montana rivers and Flathead Lake. Water levels, temps, what's working, and where to fish this week. Updated February 20, 2026.

Join our mailing list

Join us! Occasional quick reads | tips & tricks | new products announcements.