Missoula's Finest Fly Fishing

Missoula, Montana, is a fly-fishing paradise, surrounded by a variety of blue-ribbon rivers just a short drive from downtown. With easy access to the Bitterroot, Blackfoot, and Clark Fork Rivers, anglers have endless opportunities to experience world-class fishing in breathtaking settings. Mike and his team of expert guides have an intimate knowledge of these waters and fish them strategically based on which river is fishing best at any given time. The seasonal rotation of hatches ensures that there�s always action to chase, making this region a dream destination for anglers. Mike�s outfit provides all the terminal tackle (flies, tippet, floatant, etc.), offers rods and reels if needed, and even serves a gourmet riverside lunch. Their goal is to make sure your fishing trip is unforgettable, with every detail handled so you can focus on the experience. ***Rivers in the Area*** **The Bitterroot River** The Bitterroot River is a dry fly enthusiast�s dream and one of the few rivers in the West that can truly be called a dry fly fishery. Famous for stunning scenery and high-quality trout fishing, the �Root� is a must-fish destination, offering consistent opportunities for Rainbows, Cutthroats, and Browns. It�s also where the iconic Purple Haze dry fly pattern was developed, underscoring its special place in fly fishing. The Bitterroot starts fishing well in winter, but the real magic begins in March and April with the world-renowned Skwala stonefly hatch. This early-season hatch allows anglers to target trout with size 10 or larger dry flies�a rarity in spring. March Browns and Blue Winged Olives add to the excitement, while summer brings PMDs, Sallies, and Tricos. Grasshoppers keep trout feeding aggressively into fall, and cooler weather sparks Mahogany Duns and Hecuba Drakes for one last feast. Characterized by cobblestone runs, deep pools, and woody debris, the Bitterroot offers diverse water features that hold large trout. A float trip here combines exceptional fishing with unforgettable scenery, making it a bucket-list river. **The Blackfoot River** The Blackfoot River is legendary, earning a spot on nearly every angler�s bucket list. This classic freestone river boasts incredible scenery, diverse trout, and some of the best hatches in the region, including Giant Salmon Flies, Golden Stones, PMDs, and terrestrials. Whether chasing trophy trout or simply enjoying pristine wilderness, the Blackfoot keeps anglers coming back. Sometimes called the "Big Blackfoot," this river has deep historical roots. The Nez Perce once used it as a vital route to the Upper Missouri Basin for buffalo hunting. Today, it�s a dynamic fishery supported by snowpack and spring-fed flows. Anglers can aim for a "Blackfoot Grand Slam," targeting Rainbows, Cutthroats, Browns, Brookies, and hybrids. The Blackfoot is defined by boulder-strewn pocket water, perfect for hopper-dropper setups and streamers through summer. Wilderness stretches provide a setting with minimal development, abundant wildlife, and solitude. Whether drawn by history, wild trout, or stunning vistas, a float on the Blackfoot is unforgettable. **The Clark Fork River** The Clark Fork River is one of Montana�s hidden gems, often overlooked by anglers heading to more famous waters. However, this massive river offers excellent fishing, along with elbow room and serenity that are hard to find. At 310 miles, the Clark Fork is Montana�s largest river by volume, beginning near Butte and winding west to Lake Pend Oreille in Idaho. The upper stretches are smaller, featuring diverse water types that hold Brown Trout and the occasional Westslope Cutthroat�prime streamer water with chances for trophy Browns. As it flows west near Missoula, the Clark Fork transforms into a large freestone river with excellent dry fly fishing. This lower section rivals the Missouri for prolific hatches, drawing large Rainbows, Cutthroats, and hybrids. The mayfly action is legendary, providing consistent topwater excitement. For variety, the Clark Fork also offers Northern Pike, with fish exceeding 45 inches. Despite its world-class fishing, the Clark Fork sees relatively low pressure, making it one of the least crowded rivers in western Montana. Missoula�s rivers offer something special for every angler, from the intimate dry fly action of the Bitterroot to the wild freestone character of the Blackfoot and the sprawling, diverse waters of the Clark Fork. Mike and his expert guides tailor each trip to your preferences and the conditions, ensuring you fish the best water at the right time. Whether it�s early-season Skwalas, summer hoppers, or the thrill of targeting trophy Browns, these rivers provide endless opportunities for adventure. Let Mike and his team show you why Missoula is one of Montana�s premier fly-fishing destinations!