Clothing and Accessories
Weather in this great state of ours is quite unpredictable, so we suggest packing for a couple of seasons, rather than just one. No matter what time of year it is, always bring a raincoat to help keep you warm and dry. Another necessity is some sort of pullover pant, even in the summer temperatures and conditions can change quickly. We recommend always dressing and packing in layers – the old rule of thumb is it’s easier to take something off than put it on.
Fleece and all weather gear such as Under Armour are ideal during the colder months as synthetics insulate better than cotton fabrics. Also, if you are coming in the colder months we suggest having a pair of wool or fleece gloves to keep your hands protected from the elements. Skull caps or warm hats are also a good idea for early spring and late fall. During the summer months be sure to have some quick dry shorts or pants that you don’t mind getting a little wet. Also bringing along sandals or shoes that you are comfortable getting wet is a good idea for the warmer periods.
A billed or brimmed hat and polarized sunglasses are items that you should bring along regardless of the time of year. The hat will shield you from the sun, and also protect your noggin from the occasional flying wooly bugger – most guides won’t let you in a boat without one. If you don’t have any polarized lenses, let us help set you up, we carry a full line of affordably priced and specialty eyewear to fit every anglers budget. Sunscreen and bug repellent are pretty much a necessity at certain times of the year, so if you forget it at home, we can help you out when you get here.
Boots and Waders
Depending upon the fishing conditions and time of year, waders will either be a necessity or an afterthought. Wet wading is possible during the mid summer months as water temperatures heat up. However, early summer water temps can be quite cool due to run off, so we suggest packing waders at all times of year if you have them. If not, we carry a full line of Dan Bailey’s breathable waders at the store.
From our 25+ years of experience fishing in Montana, we strongly recommend a pair of felt soled wading boots or sandals. Rubber soles simply don’t grip the rocks as well as felt, and you will have a much easier time wading with a good pair of boots than in tennis shoes.
Rods, Reels and Lines
We have fished nearly every rod length and weight from the Big Hole to the Madison to the Missouri and we still can’t find a better all around rod than a 9’ 5WT. If you plan on bringing only one or two rods, make sure one of them is a 5WT or bigger. For reels we suggest only that it have at least a basic click-pawl drag. Floating lines are recommended for most fishing conditions. We have a full selection of Sage, Winston and Echo fly rods and Lamson and Ross reels. We also carry a full compliment of only the best fly lines from Scientific Anglers, Rio and Airflo - so if you don't have what you want for your trip, then just leave it up to us and you can try out some new gear on your trip.
Flies and Leaders
A full selection of only the finest local and traditional patterns is available for you to purchase at any point. Your guide will also have a selection of what’s working for the area available for you to use throughout the day and you only have to pay for what you use. Leaders, tippet, and floatant are all available as well under the same policy as the flies. Generally speaking 3X, 4X, and 5X in 9’ and 7½’ leaders will cover most of your fishing needs, but your guide can advise you of what you'll need on your trip.
Questions???
If you have any questions regarding what to bring or what is working locally, feel free to email or call us. At Montana Troutfitters, we have taken pride in providing quality advice and gear since 1978.
