Modern fly rods are lightweight, durable, and more versatile than ever before. Technology has been adopted by all of the major fly rod manufacturers to improve their design process, graphite materials, and manufacturing processing. Anglers today can expect more real, added value in high-end fly rods than ever before.
No, you don’t need a $1000 fly rod – but they sure are nice! As fly fishing guides, we spend a lot of time with beginner and novice anglers. In the two decades plus of guiding Montana fly fishing trips, we have noticed that nothing simplifies teaching the basics of casting more than a quality fly rod.
Modern fly rods are easy to load during the casting stroke, making the experience more intuitive than ever before. This translates to more time spent fly fishing with flies in the water rather than in a tangled mess wrapped around the anglers’ rod tip.
The most noticeable difference between premium and lower price-point rods lies in the graphite itself. Premium resins add durability while reducing overall weight, making them easier to cast for the novice while enhancing accuracy for the advanced angler.
In general, fly rod design has evolved to the point where each model is purpose-built. A nine-foot, 5-weight (905 or 590 size designation) is the benchmark model used for most trout fly fishing. This versatile fly rod model works great when fly fishing with dry flies, nymphs, and small streamers.
The Sage R8 CORE 590, Scott Centric 905, Hardy Ultralight X 905, Orvis Helios 905 D, and G. Loomis NRX+ 590 are our top picks for all-around use in a premium fly rod.
The Lamson Radius 905, Sage Foundation 590, or Orvis Recon 905 are all great mid-range choices. Price-conscious anglers should consider the Lamson Guru or Orvis Clearwater series of fly rods in the entry-level range.
Here in Montana, fly fishing often takes place in windy conditions on relatively large rivers in wide open spaces. Anglers fishing in Montana use more large flies than many trout fishing destinations in the West, so a secondary fly rod choice in a six weight is ideal.
Fly fishing with heavy indicator nymph rigs, streamers, and even large dries in the wind is just a lot easier with a six weight. The downside to the 6 is that it’s a bit heavy for most dry fly and nymphing scenarios. However, a good six weight nicely compliments a versatile 5-weight fly rod in situational fly fishing during windy conditions or when using heavy flies.
The Sage IGNITER 690 or G. Loomis NRX+ 690 are a couple of our Montana fishing guide’s top picks for premium six weights. Some of us prefer models with a fighting butt as this adds leverage when mending heavy rigs or fighting big fish. Check out the Lamson Velocity 906 or G. Loomis IMX-PRO V2 if the high-end rods are out of your price range. The Redington Vice or ECHO BOOST (fresh) are a pair of entry-level models worth considering as well.
Slow-sipping trout feeding on Trico spinner or PMD cripples call for delicate, yet accurate presentations when fly fishing in Montana on spring creeks and technical tailwater fisheries like the Missouri or Bighorn Rivers. These situational scenarios are right in the “wheelhouse” of that all-around nine foot 5-weight, but these are the times when a slightly “slower” and lighter rod really shine.
The slow or softer action of a “presentation” fly rod enables skilled casters to accurately deliver delicate presentations of small dry flies and nymphs while using long leaders. Fine tippets typically go hand-in-hand with long leaders and the softer tips on this style of fly rod help reduce break offs during explosive runs by feeding trout.
The Sage TROUT LL 486 and Scott GS 886 are two favorite presentation fly rods that our fly fishing guides prefer for technical dry fly fishing. Terrific for “match the hatch” dry fly fishing on Montana’s big river, these rods are also a blast to fly fish with on small streams and spring creeks where fish sizes tend to be smaller than those found in the mainstem waterways.
Solid mid-range presentation fly rods are harder to find than all-around or fast-action models as overall consumer demand is much lighter. The G. Loomis IMX-PRO Creek 794 or Sage SONIC 486 are both worthy choices for anglers looking to add more versatility to their fly rod quiver when fly fishing in Montana. Consider a Redington Butterstick 476 fiberglass fly rod as a fun, price-point alternative presentation-style rod.
Montana fly fishing is diverse and one fly rod just doesn’t cover an angler’s needs in all of the situations we encounter in a typical day on the water. There are dozens of models and brands to choose from, we recommend starting with a nine foot 5-weight and then adding a heavier or lighter model based on the type of fly fishing you most prefer. If you like fishing little dries then you will want to go lighter, but if streamer fly fishing is your thing, then add a stout 6-wieght next.
Fins and Feathers Guide Service has been outfitting Montana fly fishing trips for over two decades. We also owned and operated “Fins and Feathers of Bozeman” – one of the region’s largest retail fly shops for 23 years. We know fly rods, so feel free to lean on our expertise when making your first or next fly rod purchase for an unbiased recommendation whether you are looking for a new rod for Trout or Tarpon, we have the expertise to help simplify the process for you.
Complimentary use of fly rods is included during our guided Montana fly fishing trips. There is no need to bring your own, but we arecommend bringing your own if you have them!
If you bring your own, we suggest a nine foot 5 or 6 weight as your primary fly rod. Guests are welcome to bring up to 2 assembled fly rods with them in the boats, we can accommodate more as long as they are in their travel tubes when not in use. If you aren’t sure which ones to bring, just reach out and we will offer our opinion based on the time of year and expected conditions.
Fly reels are modern day engineering marvels made possible by machining and material advancements. Some anglers might argue that a reel is just a fly line holder, but we believe that a reel is an essential piece of any angler’s fly fishing kit.
Compare the balanced feel of a machined large arbor reel like a Ross Evolution FS or Hatch Iconic to an inexpensive cast reel and you will quickly appreciate the difference. A machined reel is the most durable and lightest option. Drag systems are similar across brands but employ proprietary design nuances or materials to differentiate themselves. A quality reel will add enjoyment to your angling experience.
Hatch Iconic fly reels are as good as it gets. Hatch Iconic reels are built for serious anglers who fish frequently. Their durability ensures a lifetime of use, even for those who are hard on their gear. The casual angler can expect a lifetime of use from a Hatch fly fishing reel.
There is no shortage of premium, reliable fly reels available today. Anglers fishing near Bozeman should prioritize reels that are machined from aircraft-grade aluminum with adjustable drag system consisting of a series of stacked plates or conical drag surfaces for optimal performance.
The Ross Evolution FS, Abel SDF, and Sage Spectrum LT are a few more high-performance freshwater reel choices that are ideal for fly fishing in Montana.
The Ross Animas and Lamson GURU S are a couple of mid-range fly reels that perform well and hold up to heavy use.
We recommend avoiding cast aluminum or machined “composite” (plastic) reels altogether as these often include the use of sub-par interior components that won’t last long with heavy use.
The use of fly reels is included on our guided fly fishing trips in Montana and are paired with an appropriate fly rod for a balanced-feel. Guests are welcome to bring their own reel, especially if they use a right-hand retrieve (left-handed caster). We can provide right-hand retrieve reels upon request, but feel free to bring your own if you have one you prefer.
With over 23 years of experience in the fly fishing industry, fly fishing travel, and guiding fly fishing trips in Montana, we are uniquely qualified (and unbiased) to help our guests find the perfect fly fishing gear. Reach out to us or talk with your guide for fly reel recommendations for fly fishing in Montana and beyond.
Fly lines are surprisingly complicated and come in myriad, purpose-built configurations. Although application-specific lines work wonders in the hands of advanced anglers, they often hinder novice anglers.
A floating fly line with a “weight-forward” taper is the typical starting point for an all around line choice when fly fishing in Montana.
The overall length of most freshwater fly lines is 90’ with a 30’ section that is called the “head.” The head section is what is used to determine the weight of a fly line which is based on a range of grain weights. Grain weight is usually not advertised on fly line packaging, but is generally around 140 grains for a 5 weight. The head on a six weight line is typically around 160 grains.
Fly rod manufacturers design their rods to perform optimally with a designated line weight, meaning that a 5 weight rod is designed to cast a 5 weight line. It’s not uncommon for a rod to be able to cast a heavier line just fine, or even better, than its designated line size, but that is often related to the skills of the caster as much as it is to the design of the fly rod. A heavier line slows down a fast-action fly rod, enabling the caster to better feel the load-point during the casting stroke.
Start adding variations like texture, coatings, tapers, and core materials to the mix and fly lines get really confusing for all but the most experienced angler.
The RIO Gold is a wonderful, all-around fly line taper that works great for all types of fly fishing in Montana. We prefer the ELITE RIO GOLD as it is built on a low-stretch core and features advanced slickness coatings for exceptional castability.
If you like textured fly lines, the Scientific Angler’s Amplitude in an Infinity taper is a great choice for fast-action fly rods. The RIO ELITE TECHNICAL TROUT is designed for the presentation dry fly angler with a long front taper to help deliver flies with delicate accuracy.
The RIO ELITE EXTREME INDICATOR line is awesome on a dedicated indicator-nymphing setup. The heavy head floats exceptionally well and turn over heavy indicator rigs with ease.
Streamer fly fishing often involves using fly lines that sink – either completely or just in the tip section. When anglers are floating and fly fishing (like we primarily do in Montana) a fly line that has a floating running line with a sinking tip section is ideal.
These fly lines come in many different configurations, each designed with a particular scenario in mind. The RIO ELITE PREDATOR fly line tape is available in several different sink rates, we prefer the F/I/S or F/M/S when fly fishing Montana rivers.
Use of paired fly lines is included on our guided fly fishing trips in Montana. Our fly fishing guides typically have setups ready to go with floating lines on them as that covers 90% of our fly-fishing needs. Sink-tip fly lines are occasionally used when streamer fly fishing on our guided trips; the guides will provide them when needed.
Montana weather is wildly unpredictable with extreme temperature ranges being commonplace in the summer months. Visitors aren’t so surprised by the cold mornings in the spring and fall, but are often shocked when they step out of their guide’s truck at the boat ramp and into 45 degree air. Being comfortable is key to success in fly fishing, so be prepared with well-designed and functional apparel.
Accessories such as hats, sun masks, gloves, and raincoats should be included in every angler’s kit when fly fishing in Montana. Whether you are fly fishing Montana for a day or a month these elements are essential for sun protection and warding off afternoon thunderstorms. Think beanies and fleece gloves for the spring and fall, versus sungloves and baseball caps for the summer season.
Tops that are made of quick-drying and breathable polyester, nylon, or blends are incredibly comfortable and offer sun protection during long summer days. Our guides opt for tops with built in hoods and long sleeves like the Skwala Fly Fishing Sol Collection.
Quick-drying, lightweight pants protect the angler from the sun and biting insects like feer flies. Avoid cotton sweatpants and blue jeans as these become uncomfortable if they get wet and are too hot once the day warms up. Anglers fishing out of drift boats rarely need to worry about getting wet, but it’s nice to have pants that are lightweight and dry quickly allowing for the flexibility of adding a bit of wet-wading to the typical day of fishing.
Layering is the key to comfort while fly fishing in Montana, regardless of the season. Base layer tops and bottoms like the Patagonia Capilene collection work well in the colder months. A wool-based mid-layer like the Skwala Thermo Collection is ideal under waders on frosty spring and fall mornings.
An insulated jacket like the Patagonia Nano Puff or Skwala Fusion Hybrid is great for summer mornings and as winter insulation under a waterproof/breathable outer layer.
The Skwala RS and Carbon Jackets are our guide’s go-to choices for rugged outerwear demands when conditions turn south, midday. These waterproof and breathable jackets block the wind and rain, enabling anglers to keep fishing through a summer squall. Pair the top with high quality rain pants from Skwala or Patagonia for all day comfort while floating and fishing through the wet spring and early summer months.
Our guided fly fishing trips in Montana do not include apparel or clothing accessories like hats, sunglasses, socks, etc. Use of fly fishing gear like rods, reels, flies, and terminal tackle are included. We provide waders and wading boots when we expect to spend time wading during the spring and fall months. Guests are expected to bring their own apparel, including raingear.
Comfort on the water tends to facilitate success! A great pair of waterproof and breathable chest waders are essential elements of every angler’s fly fishing kit. While waders aren't used often in Montana during the summer months, we rely on them during the shoulder and winter seasons (3/4 of the year).
Wader technology today is light years ahead of where it was just 10 years ago. Whether the waterproof/breathable membrane is an applied or fabric (Gore-Tex) layer, today’s waders by Skwala, Simms, Patagonia, and Orvis are incredibly comfortable in both warm and cold weather. The real difference comes down to fit and features.
If you are going to be wearing waders often, then spring for the bells and whistles like convertible tops, zipper chests, hand warming pockets, interior pockets, anatomically correct booties, integrated back-support, etc.
The Skwala Carbon and RS Waders are the best out there today (in our unbiased opinion) for men. The Patagonia Swiftcurrent Expedition Zip Waders for women are terrific for lady anglers who spend a lot of time on the water and in waders.
For anglers that are in their waders less than 20 days a year, any of the styles by the leading brands will do the trick. Just keep in mind that the low-end selections will have barebone features, minimal fabric layers, and rely on dated waterproof barrier technology. Fine for most folks, but anglers will sacrifice long-term durability and immediate comfort features.
We include the use of waders and wading boots on our guided fly fishing trips in Montana during the spring and fall seasons when needed. We will occasionally use them in the summertime during cold spells or rainy days. However, we generally do not wear them on day trips as there is very little need for them between June and September.
If you have your own breathable waders and would like to wear waders, bring your own as they are going to be far more comfortable than our rental waders and boots!
The high-water season runs from May through mid-June, water levels are too high to safely wade most years until early July. Water temperatures reach into the 60s by early June, making wet wading the more comfortable option by late June.
Wade fishing in Montana is much more challenging than most first-time visitors expect. Walking around the upper Madison is like trying to walk on top of bowling balls coated with Crisco!
There are many reasons why we use drift boats and rafts to fly fish Montana’s blue-ribbon trout rivers, but none is more significant than the reality that it is hard to walk around these rivers!
Great wading boots are essential for safety and mobility when wade-fishing Montana. Rubber soles have come a long way in terms of traction and also reduce the transmission of AIS across river drainages. Anglers can add metal screws or studs to the soles for added traction when needed and remove them for use in boats or rafts.
The Vibram-soled Patagonia Foot Tractor boots made in the USA by Danner are top-shelf boots built to last and perform like nothing else in every wading situation. The Simms Flyweight wading boots with Vibram soles are nice, light-duty boots perfect for summertime use with or without waders.
Wet wading is the mainstay for anglers fishing in Montana from June through most of September. Neoprene booties are essential for all-day comfort when wet wading as they provide a layer of protection that reduces chaffing and adds much-needed cushion when walking across rocky river bottoms.
Sandals, wet-wading shoes, or even flip-flops are perfect for those summer float trips while fly fishing in Montana. The river water is refreshing on the feet during a mid-July outing. Teva and OOFOS make really comfortable sandals and flip-flops that are great for use during the summertime. The Orvis PRO Approach shoe provides enhanced traction in a comfortable water shoe design.
Anglers getting in and out of boats will find that simple footwear is much more comfortable and convenient than bulky wading shoes when floating and fly fishing. The wet wading scenarios during the summertime typically involve stealthy bankside approaches rather than wading around in knee-deep water, so opt for comfort whenever possible.
Use of wading boots is provided on our guided fly fishing trips in Montana when waders are advised. They are available on wade-oriented trips as well, but guests are responsible for providing their own wet wading socks or neoprene booties.
There is no need for waders or wading boots on the vast majority of our guided fly fishing trips. Guest are encouraged to bring comfortable footwear, like sandals or shoes, that can handle a little water when getting in and out of the boats. Street shoes are acceptable, but they will limit where and when anglers can access the riverbank.
Fly fishing requires a lot of “stuff’, accessories like nippers, knot-tying tools, fly floatant, strike indicators, split-shot, tippet rings, fly boxes, pliers, hemostats, and the list goes on. All of these are small essentials and anglers eventually have to figure out how to carry them all, whether in a boat for floating or a pack for wading.
When floating and fly fishing in Montana, a purpose-built boat bag like the Patagonia Great Divide or Fishpond Cutbank offers waterproof protection and internal organization systems. Ideally-sized to fit in a drift boat or raft, Montana fly fishing guides consider these to be their “briefcases.”
Wading anglers fishing in Montana can choose from sling packs, hip packs, backpacks, chest packs, or systems that incorporate multiple packs. Always try a few different styles on as fit for any of these styles varies from one person to the next.
Sling packs are modern-day bandoleers with a small strap and pack that is worn diagonally across the torso. Many anglers prefer sling packs as they are used to stow your gear on your back, frees up your chest and sides for casting. Simply slide the pack around to the front to access gear and accessories. The Fishpond Summit Sling and Umpqua Northfork Sling are two of our guide’s top picks in this category of fly fishing pack.
Chest and hip packs have less capacity than a sling or back pack, making them ideal for quick outings or days spent on familiar waters. We prefer a waterproof hip pack as deep wading invariably catches every angler off-guard more often than not. The Patagonia Guidewater Hip Pack has been a time-tested solution for our guides in both fresh and saltwater fly fishing.
Chest packs should be simple, small, and have a “clean” design. Loose straps and excess zipper pulls are a real nuisance with chest packs as they constantly catch loose fly line while casting. The Fishpond San Juan Vertical Pack and Simms Freestone Chest Pack are popular with our Montana fishing guides.
Backpacks are versatile in design, making them ideal for long days outside on the water, in the field, or for commuting to work back home. Fly fishing packs are purpose-built with the angler in mind, so expect lots of pockets designed with quick access in mind, net attachments, and sophisticated weight distribution straps for carrying heavy loads on long day hikes.
Our fly fishing guides opt for waterproof backpacks as we often carry cameras and spare clothes in wet conditions.
The Patagonia Guidewater Backpack has traveled the world with us on fly-fishing adventures. The Fishpond Firehole Backpack is a well-organized fly fishing pack that is equally at home on the water as in the office.
Anglers fishing with Fins and Feathers Guide Service on a guided trip are welcome to bring a small pack or bag with them in the boat or raft. Waterproof, dry bags are not necessary but helpful on rainy days in the spring and fall. Guests are welcome to stow their basics in dry storage compartments found in both fly fishing rafts and boats. A small tote bag or back pack is ideal for carrying your essentials and stowage in the boats.
Polarized sunglasses are a must-have for fly fishing in Montana. They cut through surface glare, allowing you to see fish and underwater structures more clearly. This reduces spooking fish and helps you make accurate casts.
Polarized sunglasses are considered essential gear for guided fly fishing trips in Montana. If you forget or don't have a pair, your guide can arrange a stop at a local fly shop where you can purchase some.
Fly fishing is made easier by myriad accessories and gadgets that eventually become essential as anglers delve deeper into the sport.
Tools like hemostats for hook removal and nippers for trimming knots or cutting tippet should be among the first purchases every angler makes. Avid fly fishers typically have several pairs of each, stashed in pockets, boat bags, truck compartments, and cup holders in their boats. Additional tools like barb-crushing pliers, nail-knot tools, hook files, thermometers, tippet holders, fly patches, and zingers are valuable additions to any fly fisher's kit.
Adjustable wading staffs that fold up into several pieces for easy stowage in a hip holster are worthwhile for anglers fly fishing in Montana, primarily on foot.
Small nets that have rubber nets help minimize the harm to fish and aid with landing larger trout. Various accessories enable anglers to quickly attach and detach these nets from their packs or vests, we recommend the versions with a leash and magnet setup. Anglers fishing while floating in Montana will want a boat net with a large opening and long handle. Boat nets are essential when floating while small landing nets for wading are more of a convenience than a necessity.
Terminal tackle includes all the essential elements for fly fishing that ultimately connect anglers and fish. Whether you prefer fly fishing with nymphs, dries, or streamers, you'll likely accumulate dozens of each that will all need a variety of fly boxes to keep them organized and in good condition.
Split shot, strike indicators, micro-swivels, and tippet rings are nymph-fishing essentials. Some anglers even add tungsten putty or treat their nymphs with sinking agents to get their flies down even quicker.
The dry fly angler covet premium fly floatants as these keep dry flies floating for maximum visibility and effectiveness. Gel-based floatants like Gink or Aquel are versatile and familiar options. For finicky trout on spring creeks and still waters, CDC-based dry flies are popular. Use Tiemco Dry Magic to keep them floating high on the surface.. Liquid floatants like Tiemco Dry Shake Liquid or Fly-Agra work best on big flies like Chubby Chernobyls, Slamonfly dries, and hopper patterns. Regardless of the liquid or gel-based floatant that the angler prefers, a desiccant powder like Loon's Top Ride is essential to quickly dry a fly after heavy use or landing a fish.
Leader and tippet material connects the anglers’ flies to the fly line. Fly fishing leaders are tapered over their length, narrowing in diameter from the section that attaches to the fly line to the tippet section which is tied to the fly. The taper ensures smooth energy transfer from the fly line, allowing for accurate presentations with dry flies and nymphs, and enables anglers to make accurate fly presentations when fly fishing with dry flies and nymphs. Tippet material is used to add length to the leader following multiple fly changes and the inevitable reality of tangles following a poorly executed cast.
Nylon leader and tippet material are suitable for a wide range of Montana fly fishing situations. They are preferred by dry fly anglers and commonly used for all types of fly fishing in off-color water conditions. RIO PPOWERFLEX is the staple nylon leader and tippet material in our guides' boat bags. Fluorocarbon tippet like RIO FLUORFLEX STRONG is highly abrasion resistant and less visible in the water, so it is preferred by advanced anglers for technical nymph-fishing in clear water.
Our guided fly fishing trips in Montana include the use of all terminal tackle. Our guides are well-supplied with everything from floatant to flies. Anglers are welcome to bring their own terminal tackle and flies, but fly fishing guides tend to have confidence in the fly patterns and terminal tackle that they prefer, based on their years of experience.
As you begin to get “geared-up” for your Montana fly fishing vacation, feel free to reach out to us via e-mail or through our contact form for help with making gear selections. We have over two decades of experience in the fly fishing industry and know the gear as well as we do our Montana home waters.
All of our guided fly fishing trips include complimentary use of fly rods, reels (with lines), and terminal tackle. Waders and boots are provided during periods of inclement weather and wade fishing trips during the spring and fall. Although this is all provided, we encourage anglers to bring and use their gear if it’s appropriate for our style of fly fishing.