Frequently Asked Questions
A: FishTales Outfitting is a professional fly fishing guide service in southwestern Montana that offers guided trips on some of the region’s most legendary trout rivers, including the Yellowstone, Missouri, Big Hole, Beaverhead, and more. Our experienced guides make fishing exciting and educational for anglers of all skill levels.
A: We are based near Sheridan, Montana, and offer trips on nearby rivers and private waters throughout southwest Montana.
A: FishTales Outfitting offers professionally guided fly fishing trips in southwest Montana, including half-day, full-day, and multi-day excursions. Trips are available for beginners, intermediate, and advanced anglers on world-class trout rivers and private waters.
A: Fishtales Outfitting guides fly fishing trips on premier Montana waters such as the Big Hole River, Missouri River, Clark Fork River, Beaverhead River, Jefferson River, Bitterroot River, Ruby River, Beaverhead River Ranch, Yellowstone River, Blackfoot River, and Madison River.
A: Yes. FishTales Outfitting specializes in beginner-friendly fly fishing trips. Experienced guides provide hands-on instruction in casting, fly selection, river reading, and fish handling, making it ideal for first-time anglers.
A: Guided trips typically include a professional fly fishing guide, terminal tackle (flies, leaders, tippet), rods and reels upon request, and lunch on full-day trips. Guests should bring weather-appropriate clothing, polarized sunglasses, and a valid Montana fishing license.
A: No. FishTales Outfitting provides high-quality fly fishing rods, reels, and flies if needed. Anglers are welcome to bring personal gear if they prefer.
A: The Montana fly fishing season typically runs from late spring through early fall. Peak fishing conditions vary by river and hatch cycle. Contact FishTales Outfitting to plan the best time based on water conditions and target species.
A: Yes. FishTales Outfitting offers exclusive access to Beaverhead Ranch private water, providing uncrowded fishing, trophy trout opportunities, and a premium fly fishing experience.
A: Trips can be booked by calling 406-451-2074, emailing info@mtfishtales.com, or submitting the inquiry form on the website. Early booking is recommended during peak season.
A: The cost of a guided fly fishing trip in Montana is generally consistent across rivers, with the only additional charge being any applicable private water access fees. Rates do not vary based on the number of anglers, as each guide accommodates one or two anglers to ensure a high level of personalized attention. Pricing is based on trip length. For exact rates and availability, please contact Fishtales Outfitting directly.
A: Yes. FishTales Outfitting assists with trip planning, including lodging recommendations, airport guidance, and local travel tips to ensure a smooth Montana fly fishing vacation.
A: Yes. All anglers must have a valid Montana fishing license. Guides can help explain regulations and assist with where to purchase licenses before your trip.
A: FishTales Outfitting combines local expertise, personalized trips, access to top rivers and private waters, and a strong focus on customer experience, making it one of the trusted fly fishing guide services in Montana.
A: Anglers can target species such as wild rainbow trout, brown trout, cutthroat trout, brook trout, and grayling.
A: Yes. FishTales Outfitting offers family-friendly and small-group guided fly fishing trips with customized pacing and instruction suitable for all ages and experience levels.
A: Yes. Shoulder seasons can offer excellent fishing opportunities with fewer crowds. Guides adjust techniques and locations based on seasonal water flows and weather conditions.
A: Montana weather and river conditions are often variable; trips will not be refunded due to client cancellations for unusual weather or river conditions.
A: Private water fly fishing offers exclusive access, fewer anglers, and controlled conditions, while public rivers provide diverse fishing opportunities across Montana’s famous waterways.
A: Yes. All guides are licensed, insured, and highly experienced in Montana fly fishing, with in-depth local knowledge of river systems, hatches, and seasonal patterns.
A: Absolutely. Guides provide real-time coaching on casting, presentation, fly selection, drift control, and fish behavior to help anglers improve their skills on the water.
A: Yes. Advanced anglers can request specific rivers, technical dry-fly fishing, nymphing, streamer fishing, or sight-fishing experiences based on seasonal conditions.
A: It’s recommended to book several weeks to months in advance, especially during peak summer months, to secure preferred dates and rivers.
A: We prioritize diversity and freedom. While others may tether you to one “home” river, we unlock the entire Montana map, specializing in multi-day adventures across ten different legendary rivers. With over 30 years of professional experience, our guides are storytellers and expert teachers dedicated to finding you the “fish of a lifetime”.
A: We specialize in the iconic currents of the Madison, Blackfoot, Yellowstone, and Missouri rivers. We also offer exclusive, secluded experiences on Beaverhead Ranch private waters, where you can find trophy trout away from the crowds.
A: While the season runs late spring through fall, we recommend booking around specific hatches for the best experience. The Salmonfly hatch in June is legendary for action, while the Hopper and Trico hatches in August offer technical dry-fly fishing for the “dry fly purest“.
A: No, we do not offer all-inclusive lodging and fishing packages. Fishing services are booked and paid for directly with us, while lodging is paid separately to the hotel. We can assist with booking rooms at the Moriah and provide guidance to help coordinate your stay and fishing experience smoothly.
A: To provide a frictionless experience, we recommend using our online booking system for real-time availability. You can also reach us at 406-451-2074 or info@mtfishtales.com for custom itineraries. Because we focus on high-quality, personalized trips, early booking is highly recommended for peak season.
A: We provide a professional guide, all necessary terminal tackle (flies, leaders, tippet), and rods/reels upon request. Full-day trips also include a high-quality lunch. You only need to bring weather-appropriate clothing, polarized sunglasses, and a valid Montana fishing license.
A: Absolutely. We specialize in beginner-friendly instruction, covering casting, river reading, and fish handling. Our guides are patient and adapt the pace to suit families or small groups of any skill level.
A: At this time, guided fly fishing trips with FishTales Outfitting are booked directly through our team to ensure a personalized experience. This allows us to match you with the right guide, river, and timing based on current conditions and your skill level. You can request availability by phone or email, and we respond promptly to secure your preferred dates.
A: Montana offers some of the most famous trout hatches in the world. Key hatches include the Salmonfly hatch in late spring, Pale Morning Duns (PMDs) and Caddis in early summer, Hoppers and Ants during mid- to late summer, and Trico hatches in late summer and early fall. Our guides plan trips around peak hatch activity to maximize success on the water.
A: FishTales Outfitting is led by Michael, who brings over 30 years of fly fishing experience in Montana and across the West. Our guides are highly experienced, licensed professionals with deep local knowledge of river systems, seasonal patterns, and trout behavior. This expertise ensures a safe, productive, and memorable fly fishing experience for anglers of all levels.