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Bozeman, MT. Fly Fishing Guide: Kaden Kelley Q&A's

Posted by: Alex

Date: 01/31/2026

I recently had the chance to sit down with guide Kaden Kelley to discuss how his offseason is going, checkin in to see how he’s been spending his time this winter and what he’s most looking forward to as the guide season starts to come into focus.

What's it like fishing with Kaden?

"I was a complete newbie to fly fishing, the process to book was seamless, efficient and professional. Toby(owner) answered all my questions before booking, and helped choose the best river. My expert guide, Kaden, was extraordinary, an excellent communicator, he taught me everything I needed to know about casting, mending, setting a fish. His depth of knowledge and patience made it easy, fun and exciting. I easily caught 15-20 fish. He knew exactly where to cast. I can’t say enough about the care these people take regarding their clients, the fish, the river and our land. It was a heartbreakingly beautiful, perfect day."

- Millie W.

Meeting The Guide: Kaden Kelley

Our guides are key to shaping the experience anglers have on the water; getting to know them gives a better sense of what makes guided fly fishing around Bozeman so special. Kaden grew up fly fishing, learned to guide at a young age, and brings a lot of positive energy and enthusiasm to every day on the river.

I sat down with him to talk about the upcoming season, his favorite hatches, time spent chasing fish both locally and abroad, and what clients can expect when they spend a day fishing alongside him.

A Conversation With Bozeman Fly Fishing Guide Kaden

What are you most excited about heading into the 2026 season, and which hatches are you looking forward to most?

I’m most excited to spend every day on the river doing what I love. My favorite hatches this year are definitely going to be the salmonfly hatch and the brown drake hatch. I’m looking forward to getting some good fish in the boat and having a great time with my clients.

What have you been up to this winter?

I started my offseason with a big elk hunting trip in Colorado and then spent the rest of the season hunting in Montana. I also did some duck hunting with my dog, Minnow, and worked construction quite a bit. I didn’t end up getting an elk, but that’s how it goes sometimes. I also took a two-week trip to Belize, which was a great experience. Even though it hasn’t been the best winter for snow, I’ve still managed to ski about twenty days.

How was your trip to Belize, and what stood out the most?

The saltwater trip I did this year was to San Pedro, Belize. It was a do-it-yourself trip, so we didn’t fish with guides. The weather didn’t really cooperate, and the fishing was tough, but we still had a great time. The highlight for me was hooking a really big triggerfish on a bonefish rod. I only had him on for about five seconds before he broke off, but it was an exhilarating moment.

What fly rods are you enjoying most right now, both personally and for clients?

My favorite rod right now is the Hardy Ultralite X in a 7-weight because I do a lot of streamer fishing. When I’m throwing dries, I still love my old Helios 3 4-weight. For clients, I really like the Orvis Clearwater 9½-foot 5-weight. It’s a versatile rod that can do a lot of different things well. If I had to pick one rod to take to the salt, it would be the Hardy Marksman Z in every weight.

Have you picked up any new gear recently that’s made a difference?

One of the best pieces of gear I’ve added this year is a set of Sawyer square-cut oars for my boat. They’ve made rowing more efficient and made my days on the water easier. I also picked up a new pair of Skwala waders, which I’ve been really happy with.

What is your favorite local river to fish and guide?

My favorite river to fish, both personally and with clients, is the Yellowstone River. You really get the best of both worlds there. You can float the lower sections looking for big brown trout, or head upstream and throw dry flies to cutthroat trout.

If you could fish for one species anywhere in the world, what would it be?

If I could choose one species to fish for the rest of my life, it would be permit in Mexico. I’ve spent about five years chasing them and still haven’t landed one, but I love every second of it. I enjoy the challenge, and it doesn’t hurt that you get to spend time in the tropics.

What is your favorite time of year to fish around Bozeman?

My favorite time of year to fish in Montana is the spring. After a long winter, everyone is itching to get back on the water, and the fish are hungry and active. In the spring, I especially like fishing the Bighorn River and the lower Yellowstone.

When do you think is the best time for anglers to plan a fly fishing trip to Montana?

If I had to recommend one time of year to visit Bozeman, I’d say late June or early July. Most rivers are out of runoff by then, some of our best hatches like the salmonfly hatch are happening, and the weather is usually really good.

What has guiding taught you about people?

Guiding has taught me how to have a good time with just about anyone who steps into the front of my boat. No matter how the fishing goes, it’s about creating a positive experience and making the most of the day with the people you’re around.

How did you get into fly fishing?

My dad is the one who got me into fly fishing. He was also a fishing guide, so as long as I can remember, I was in the front of the boat learning how to fish. As soon as I could pull on the oars, I was rowing. Fly fishing has been part of my life for as long as I can remember.

What is one fly you always rely on when guiding?

If I had to pick one fly I always go back to, it would be a pat’s rubberleg. When we’re fishing tailwaters, I also really like fishing crawfish patterns.

What is your favorite thing about trout fishing in Montana?

My favorite thing about trout fishing in Montana is how diverse it is. You can throw dry flies, nymph, or fish streamers on rivers and lakes. What keeps me going is always hunting for that next big fish.

Learn to Fly Fish With Bozeman Fly Fishing Guide Kaden Kelley

Fly fishing is at its best when it’s kept fun and approachable, and that’s why we are lucky to have guides like Kaden. Guides like Kaden are a big part of what makes fishing with Fins and Feathers Guide Service such a unique experience. His lifelong love for the sport, combined with an adaptable approach on the water, helps create memorable days for anglers no matter the conditions.

Whether it’s your first Montana fly fishing trip or your tenth, spending a day on the river with a guide like Kaden makes for a fun and memorable guided fly fishing experience, every time.

Comments From Our Customers About Bozeman Fly Fishing Guide Kaden

"Kaden was excellent. It was my first time fly fishing, along with my son. He was patient with us but also very helpful throughout the trip. We caught a lot of fish with his instructions and enjoyed the experience.

-Scott H.

"Kaden was excellent. He had great enthusiasm and patience, especially with teaching my young son how to fly fish"

- Bryan B.

"Fantastic trip with two great guides. We were on fish each day despite the finicky weather that often occurs in spring. Kaden and Will were our guides. Both excellent and very patient with inexperienced fly anglers."

- Bari O.