Question 1

What's included in a guided trip?

Accepted Answer

All-inclusive guide trips with no hidden fees: equipment (rods, reels, flies, leaders, tippet), drift boat, transportation to and from the river, lunch, and beverages. Montana fishing license and guide gratuity are separate.

Question 2

Do I need a fishing license?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Montana fishing licenses are required for everyone 12 and older. You can buy a 2-day, 10-day, or season license online from Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks before your trip — bring it with you, ideally already in your wallet.

Question 3

How do we get back to the vehicle?

Accepted Answer

We use a shuttle service that moves your vehicle from the put-in ramp to the take-out ramp during the day, so it's waiting for you when you finish.

Question 4

How much should we tip the guide?

Accepted Answer

We recommend tipping 20% at the minimum. Guiding is hard work and your guide carries significant overhead per outing — a good tip is the most direct way to thank them for the day.

Question 5

What should we bring?

Accepted Answer

Your fishing license, a few extra layers (Montana weather changes fast), polarized sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen. Please leave dogs at home — we can't take them on trips for liability reasons.

Question 6

Where should we stay?

Accepted Answer

We partner with East Ridge Ranch, a Western-styled lodge about 10 minutes from Corvallis with options for two, six, or eight guests. Guides will pick up and drop off ranch guests on trip days.

Question 7

When will my guide contact me?

Accepted Answer

Your guide will reach out the night before your trip at the latest, and as early as a week before — to confirm pickup time, talk through the plan for the day, and answer any last questions.

Question 8

What's the best time of year to fish?

Accepted Answer

April, June, July, September, and October are our favorites — best combination of bug life, water temperatures, and flows. The Bitterroot fishes well from March through November with consistent dry fly action.

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