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Recommended Gear

The comprehensive list to make sure you are covered

Montana Fly Fishing Gear Guide

Whether you are fly fishing for one day, one week, or one month this gear list includes the essential gear we recommend bringing to make the most of your fly fishing trip. Weather is variable in Montana and even the nicest of sunny days can turn to rain, sleet, or snow and although we fly fish through most of it, good gear can sure make it much more pleasant. We always hope for the best but plan for the worst before any day of fly fishing and recommend you do the same while packing. Explore our comprehensive gear list, contact us for gear recommendations, and support our preferred retail partners.

Montana Angling Co. Recommended Gear Kits

Men's Apparel and Gear

Women's Apparel and Gear

Rods, Reels, and Lines

Recommended Float Fly Fishing Rod/Reel Combo

Fly Rod: Scott Centric 9′ 5-Weight Fly Rod

Reel: Hatch 5-Plus Fly Reel

Line: RIO Gold Elite WF5 Fly Line

Recommended Wade Fly Fishing Rod/Reel Combo

Fly Rod: Scott G-Series 8’8″ 4-Weight

Reel: Hatch 4-Plus Fly Reel

Line: RIO Gold Elite WF4 Fly Line

Bags, Packs and Vests

Montana Angling Co. Guide Trip Gear List

Gear Provided by Montana Angling Co.

  • Fly Rod, Reel, and Line
  • Flies and Terminal Tackle (Tippet, Leaders, Weight, etc.)
  • Non-Alcoholic Beverages
  • Lunch (Full Day Trips Only)
  • Life Jacket
  • First Aid Kit

Recommended Personal Gear

  • Personal Fly Rods/Reels/Lines
  • Personal Tackle
  • Personal Flies
  • Hat and Sun Gaiter (Buff Wrap)
  • Polarized Sunglasses
  • Long Sleeved Sun Shirt
  • Sun Pants/Shorts
  • Fleece Jacket
  • Water-Proof Rain Jacket and Pants
  • Float Trip Footwear (Sandals or Water Shoes)
  • Wade Trip Footwear (Wading Boots)
  • Wading Pack/Vest
  • Wading Staff
  • Sunscreen
  • Bug Spray
  • Alcoholic Beverages
  • Snacks

Recommended Cold Weather Gear

Additional gear required for anglers with trips booked during Spring, Fall, or Winter months (January-April and October-December).
  • Gore-Tex Waders and Boots
  • Gore-Tex Wading Jacket
  • Wading Belt
  • Warm Hat
  • Insulated Jacket
  • Fleece or Polartech Mid-Layer Jacket
  • Long Underwear/Base Layer Top and Bottom
  • Fleece or Insulated Pants
  • Fingerless or fold-over gloves/mittens
  • Wool Socks
  • Fleece Neck Gaiter
  • Handwarmers

Montana Angling Company endorses all of our gear and partner recommendations. We appreciate the support of our anglers and earn affiliate commission with purchases, at no added cost to you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included with a guided fly fishing trip?

A guided fly fishing trip with the Montana Angling Company includes expert guiding and instruction on one of Montana’s best rivers or lakes, local transportation, non-alcoholic beverages (you may bring your own alcoholic drinks), use of rod/reel, tackle, flies, river shuttle, and a nice streamside lunch.

What is NOT included with a guided fly fishing trip?

A guided fly fishing trip with the Montana Angling Company does not include guide gratuity, Montana or Yellowstone National Park Fishing license, private water rod fees, personal accessory gear (hat, sunglasses, sun gloves, etc.), waders, wading boots, or alcoholic beverages.

What gear should I bring on my guided fly fishing trip?

Please refer to our Gear List for more information.

When is the best time to come fly fishing in Montana?

Whenever you can make it! But to break it down simply March, April, May, October, and November you can expect low angling pressure, great fishing, but variable weather. June, July, August, and September are prime time: fly fishing is great, especially the dry fly bite, and weather is generally reliable. We have put together a fishing calendar that addresses all things fly fishing in Montana you may want to consult for more detail here.

Where are the best places to stay and eat in Montana?

We have compiled a list of recommended lodging and restaurants that can be found here. Please give us a call at 406-579-9553 for personal recommendations or ask your guide, they are always good for a local watering hole or two.

What should I wear on a guided fly fishing trip?

Great question! Every angler should come prepared with sunglasses, hat, and suitable clothing and footwear everyday. In the Spring and Fall this means dressing warm in quick drying layers. Bring waders, wading boots, good rain gear, gloves and a warm hat. During the summer this means dressing cool in sun protective lightweight fishing clothes. We recommend long sleeves, pants, and water-friendly shoes. For some this means a tank top and bathing suit. Always be prepared for inclement weather. We have seen it snow every month of the year. Keep an eye on the forecast as your trip nears and pack accordingly.

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