Flathead Lake Fishing Charter
Flathead Lake is the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi — 197 square miles of cold, clear water sitting at the edge of Glacier National Park country. It's home to lake trout (mackinaw) that run deep and hit hard, and on a calm morning with the Mission Mountains in the backdrop, it's one of the most memorable places you can drop a line in Montana. Riverstone Outfitters runs guided Flathead Lake fishing charters out of the Flathead Valley, putting anglers on fish from May through October aboard a fully equipped, Coast Guard-compliant boat.
What's Included on Your Flathead Lake Charter
Every Riverstone charter is a private trip. No strangers, no crowds — just your group and your guide. Here's what's covered from the moment you step aboard:
- Licensed and insured fishing guide (MT Outfitter License #63826)
- Fully equipped, Coast Guard-compliant boat
- Rods, reels, and all terminal tackle
- Bait and rigging — we handle it
- Cooler with bottled water (snacks or lunch depending on trip duration)
- All required safety gear
- Local knowledge on current fish holding spots, depths, and presentations
What you need to bring: Your Montana fishing license (required by law — buy online at Montana FWP), layers for changing lake weather, and your appetite. Everything else is on us.
What You'll Be Fishing For
Flathead Lake supports a diverse fishery that changes by season. Your guide will tailor the presentation and technique to whatever is biting best on the day of your trip.
Lake Trout (Mackinaw)
The marquee species on Flathead Lake. Mackinaw are cold-water predators that run deep — typically 60 to 200 feet depending on the time of year. We target them with heavy jigs, tube baits, and vertical presentations. When you get one to the surface, you'll understand why people travel from all over the country to fish this lake.
Northern Pike
Flathead Lake's pike are an aggressive, structure-oriented fish that hit hard and fight dirty. Shallow bays and weed edges in the warmer months are prime territory.
Whitefish
Mountain whitefish are abundant in Flathead Lake and are excellent table fare. They're a great target for families and newer anglers — active biters that keep rods bent throughout the day.
Yellow Perch
Flathead's perch population has grown in recent years. Perch are easy, fun, and prolific — perfect for keeping younger anglers engaged and taking home a fish fry's worth of fillets.
When to Book Your Flathead Lake Fishing Charter
Flathead Lake fishes differently across the season, and there's no bad time to be on the water. Here's a quick breakdown of what to expect month by month:
Spring (May – June)
Mackinaw are actively chasing baitfish in shallower water coming out of winter. Some of the best big-fish opportunities of the year happen in May and early June before summer stratification pushes them deep. Expect cooler temperatures — dress in layers.
Summer (July – August)
The lake calms, the views are unbeatable, and fishing action stays consistent. Lake trout drop deeper as water warms, so we shift to deep-jigging techniques. This is also prime time for perch and pike. Families, kids, and casual anglers tend to love summer charters — steady action, beautiful scenery, warm afternoons.
Fall (September – October)
Fall is when the mackinaw get aggressive again. Cooling water temperatures trigger feeding activity, and big fish move up. September and October are two of the most productive months on the lake, and the fall colors around the Mission Mountains make for scenery that's hard to beat. This is a favorite season for serious anglers.
Where We Launch — Flathead Valley Access Points
Riverstone Outfitters operates throughout the Flathead Valley, with access from multiple lake entry points. Whether you're staying in Kalispell, Whitefish, Bigfork, Polson, or Lakeside, we'll coordinate the closest and most convenient launch point for your group.
- Bigfork — East side of the lake, close to the narrows and prime mackinaw structure
- Polson — South end of the lake near Flathead Indian Reservation boundary — excellent pike and perch water
- Lakeside / Somers — West shore access, convenient from Kalispell and Whitefish
- Kalispell area — 20–30 minutes to multiple launch points depending on target species
Not sure where you're staying? Call us at 406-607-1165 and we'll figure out the best logistics for your trip.
Group Charters and Family Trips Welcome
Our Flathead Lake charters accommodate up to 6 anglers per trip, making them one of the best options in northwest Montana for family fishing days, corporate outings, bachelor trips, or a group of buddies who want a day on big water. All skill levels are welcome — we've had guests who had never held a rod and guests who've fished Flathead Lake for decades. We meet you where you are and make sure everyone has a great day.
Looking for something extra special? Pair your charter with our Wild Horse Island Combination Trip — a half-day of fishing combined with a stop at Montana's most unique wildlife destination.
About Riverstone Outfitters
Riverstone Outfitters is a veteran-owned guide service based in the Flathead Valley, Montana. We hold Montana Outfitter License #63826 and operate guided trips on Flathead Lake, the Flathead River, and the Missouri River. Our guides are licensed, insured, and local — people who fish these waters year-round and know them as well as anyone.
We started Riverstone because we believe a day on the water should be straightforward, fun, and well-run. No fluff, no upselling, no condescension. Just good fishing with a guide who knows where to go.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a fishing license for a Flathead Lake charter?
Yes. Montana state law requires all anglers to hold a valid fishing license regardless of age (youth licenses are available at low cost). You can purchase your license online at Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks before your trip.
How many people can fish on one charter?
Our Flathead Lake charters accommodate up to 4–6 anglers depending on boat configuration. Private trips only — no shared charters with strangers.
What should I wear?
Layer up. Lake weather on Flathead can change quickly even in summer. Bring a light rain jacket, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, long sleeves), and comfortable shoes with non-slip soles. Sunscreen is essential — you'll be on open water for several hours.
Can beginners and kids fish on a Flathead Lake charter?
Absolutely. Lake fishing is one of the most approachable formats for newer anglers and kids. No casting required — most of our lake techniques involve jigging and vertical presentations that anyone can learn in minutes. Families are welcome and we enjoy introducing younger anglers to the sport.
What if I want to combine a lake charter with fly fishing?
We offer multi-day and combo packages. Our Wild Horse Island Combo Trip is a popular option, and we can also customize a package that includes a lake day and a Flathead River float. Contact us directly to build a custom itinerary.
Is gratuity included?
Gratuity is not included in the charter price and is left to your discretion. Our guides appreciate it and work hard to earn it.
Ready to Book Your Flathead Lake Fishing Charter?
Trips fill up fast during peak summer months. Secure your date now — or call us at 406-607-1165 if you want to talk through options before booking.
Active military and veterans receive a discount on all guided trips. Learn more about our veteran pricing.