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

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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.

August 21, 2026 Riverstone Outfitters 5 min read

Flathead Lake vs. Flathead River: Which Montana Fishing Trip Is Right for You?

Not sure whether to fish Flathead Lake or the Flathead River? A local guide breaks down the species, experience, and which option fits your group best.

Riverstone Outfitters guide holding a brown trout submerged in the water during a safe catch-and-release

August 20, 2026 Riverstone Outfitters 7 min read

Hoot Owl Restrictions in Montana: What August Anglers Need to Know

Hoot owl restrictions are shaping Montana fly fishing this August. Here's what the 2 p.m. closure rule means, which of our rivers — including the Madison, Blackfoot, Clark Fork, and Yellowstone — are currently affected, and how we adjust guided trips to keep you fishing. Fishing elsewhere in Montana? Check FWP's current restrictions page.

Angler holding a bass caught during a multi-day Clark Fork and Flathead River fly fishing trip with Riverstone Outfitters

August 20, 2026 Riverstone Outfitters 3 min read

Two Rivers, One Trip: Why We Love Pairing the Clark Fork with the Flathead

A multi-day guided trip pairing the Clark Fork's overlooked, wide-open water with the glacier-fed Flathead River—plus why we love building two-river itineraries for guests.

April 30, 2026 Riverstone Outfitters 13 min read

Flathead River Guided Fly Fishing Near Glacier: 2026

A complete 2026 planning guide to booking a guided fly fishing trip on the Flathead River near Glacier National Park — what's included, when to go, and what to expect on the water.

February 24, 2026 Riverstone Outfitters 6 min read

Missouri River Fishing: Montana's Premier Tailwater Fishery

Discover why the Missouri River is Montana's premier tailwater fishery. Learn about spring fishing during runoff, consistent hatches, trophy trout potential, and why this dam-controlled river offers world-class fishing year-round.

June 9, 2025 Riverstone Outfitters 3 min read

Best Guided Fishing Trips Near Kalispell, Montana | Riverstone Outfitters

Looking for the best fishing adventures near Kalispell, Montana? Whether you’re dreaming of casting dry flies to wild trout on scenic rivers or reeling in big lake trout on Flathead Lake, Riverstone Outfitters offers guided trips for every kind of angler. Explore the top rivers and lakes near Kalispell and plan your perfect Montana fishing experience.

May 31, 2025 Riverstone Outfitters 1 min read

What to Expect on a Guided Missouri River Fly Fishing Trip

New to guided fishing or just curious what to expect? Here’s everything you need to know about a full-day float on Montana’s Missouri River with Riverstone Outfitters.

April 18, 2025 Riverstone Outfitters 3 min read

What to Expect on a Fly Fishing Trip with Riverstone Outfitters

Wondering what a guided fly fishing trip with Riverstone Outfitters looks like? Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced angler, here’s everything you can expect — from booking your trip to casting on Montana’s legendary rivers and lakes near Kalispell.