A 13-day fly fishing trip through Montana is an angler’s dream, offering world-class rivers, stunning landscapes, and diverse trout species. Below is a well-balanced itinerary covering iconic waters, hidden gems, and time for relaxation.

13-Day Montana Fly Fishing Itinerary

Focus: Big trout, scenic floats, wade fishing, and local culture.

Day 1-2: Yellowstone River (Paradise Valley)

Stay: Livingston or Emigrant (e.g., Chico Hot Springs for relaxation).
Fish: The Yellowstone’s legendary waters below Yankee Jim Canyon.
Target: Wild cutthroat, rainbow, and brown trout.
Float: Carbella to Mallard’s Rest or wade fish near Pine Creek.

Bonus: Soak in Chico’s hot springs after fishing.

Day 3-4: Boulder River & Absaroka Backcountry

Stay: Big Timber or McLeod (rustic cabins).
Fish:
Boulder River: Small-stream beauty with aggressive browns and rainbows.
East Boulder River: Hike into alpine meadows for cutthroats.

Tip: Pack a lightweight rod (3-4 wt) for small-water fun.

Day 5-6: Missouri River (Craig to Cascade)

Stay: Craig or Helena (e.g., The Trout Shop cabins).
Fish: The "Mo’s" famous tailwater below Holter Dam.
Technique: Nymphing with sowbugs, RS2s, or streamers.
Expect: 20+ fish days with hefty rainbows and browns.

Bonus: Visit The Trout Shop for local intel.

Day 7-8: Blackfoot River & Clark Fork

Stay: Missoula or Ovando (The Blackfoot Angler).
Fish:
Blackfoot: Made famous by A River Runs Through It. Wade or float for wild rainbows.
Clark Fork: Larger water with strong browns; try streamers near Rock Creek confluence.

Side Trip: Brewery tour in Missoula (e.g., KettleHouse).

Day 9-10: Bitterroot River & Rock Creek

Stay: Darby or Lolo (riverside lodges).
Fish:
Bitterroot: Dry-fly heaven (PMDs, caddis) with scenic mountain views.
Rock Creek: Blue-ribbon freestone with aggressive rainbows and cutbows.

Pro Tip: Early mornings on Rock Creek avoid crowds.

Day 11-12: Madison River

Stay: Ennis or West Yellowstone.
Fish:
Upper Madison (Quake Lake to Lyons Bridge): Nymphing for trophy browns.
Lower Madison (Bear Trap Canyon): Technical dry-fly fishing.

Must-Do: Stop at Blue Ribbon Flies in West Yellowstone.

Day 13: Gallatin River (Final Day)

Stay: Bozeman (easy airport access).
Fish: The Gallatin’s pocket water near Big Sky.
Quick wade trip before flying home—hoppers or stimulators in late summer.

Logistics & Tips

Season: June–October (July–Sept for dry flies; Sept–Oct for big browns).
Guides: Book early for prime floats (e.g., Montana Trout Outfitters).
Gear: 5-6 wt rods, sinking lines for streamers, and strong tippet (3X-5X).
License: Buy online (need separate permits if fishing near Yellowstone Park).
Non-Fishing Days: Add a rest day in Bozeman (hiking, museums) or a soak at Norris Hot Springs.

This itinerary balances epic fishing with Montana’s rugged charm. Tight lines! 🎣