Fishing FAQ
What rivers do you fish on?
We run our daily fly fishing trips on either the Middle Fork or North Fork of the Flathead River. Together, these rivers create the western boundary of Glacier National Park and are nationally designated Wild And Scenic. In addition, we have one launch per year on the Smith River in central Montana. This is a strictly regulated river with few launches, great fishing, and beautiful scenery. We spend five days floating, fishing, and camping along the Smith.
Do you provide equipment?
Necessary camping and fishing equipment (flies too) are included with all trips.
What are we fishing for?
These federally protected, Wild and Scenic waters support native Westslope Cutthroat, along with Rainbow and Brook trout. We practice catch and release fishing.
Do we need to wear waders?
No, because all of our fly fishing trips are run in stable and maneuverable drift boats. Occasionally we fish from inflatable rafts.
Do you guarantee we will catch fish?
We can’t guarantee it, but we have caught trout almost every trip. We can guarantee that you’ll be amazed at the stunning beauty of the Wild and Scenic rivers we fish on, whether or not they’re biting!
Do we need a Montana State Fishing License?
Yes, you do need a Montana fishing license if you are on a fly fishing trip with us. Get your Montana fishing license here:
Montana FWP Online Licensing System
It is best to have a license in hand before you meet your guide at our office. We recommend printing one online. If that isn’t convenient, most fly shops and sporting goods stores in Montana sell them.
If you are backpacking with us inside Glacier National Park you do not need a Montana fishing license. Instead, you need a free copy of the NPS Fishing Regulations with you.
STILL HAVE QUESTIONS?
We'd love to answer them.
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Lodging Testimonial
When searching for lodging close to Glacier National Park I happened upon Glacier Guides Lodge. It was comfortably rustic, cozy and the rooms had a nice array of amenities. The breakfast buffet was a plus with both hot & cold items. The coffee was excellent! Check-in was a hoot as we were greeted by a note telling us the keys were in the room and to check off our name so when staff returned they would know we’d arrived. When we did meet the staff they were welcoming and full of information about the park and surrounding area. Being a stone’s throw from the West entrance to the park was certainly a plus. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay there.
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Hiking Testimonial
Went on a guided hike to Avalanche Trail yesterday with our guide Tom. Perfect way to experience the Park for the first time. I learned so much about the Park as Tom pointed out many interesting points that I would have not known if I went alone. Enjoyed the company of 5 other guests. Took a van ride about 16 miles in to access the Trail. Tom brought lunches for each and we ate halfway through on the shore of a beautiful lake. I enjoyed asking questions to learn and Tom had the answers. I would highly recommend taking a guided hike with Glacier Guides even if you’ve been to the Park before. Glad I did.
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Fishing Testimonial
We booked half day fly fishing afternoon trip on float boat. My husband fly fishes several times a year. I did not fly fish at all until we booked this trip. We were blessed to have our fly fishing guide be Jamie Burkholder. He was FANTASTIC!!!! I caught fish after he very calmly taught me his simple techniques for fly fishing. I would recommend him every time if your looking for a smart and nice guide that definitely knows what he’s doing.
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Hiking Testimonial
What an amazing experience! Just finished a four day backpacking trip with guide, Jen. Jen was extremely professional and so “in tune” to the group. Her knowledge of the surroundings we walked through was incredible. It’s clear she holds a passion for what she does that really shines through. She went above and beyond to help give me a most memorable first time experience at Glacier. Thank you!
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Our Guides
Our guide Scott did a great job prepping and leading the tour, which consisted of 6 guests (including myself). The description of the tour and FAQ/prep materials list and itinerary that the company sent over beforehand were very accurate and super helpful! Aside from a quick hail storm, we got great weather and an extremely enjoyable three days of hiking in East Glacier crossing the Continental Divide. Scott did an excellent job of explaining to us how the backcountry permitting system works and from that explanation I was amazed at the amount of work that each guide must put into every single tour. They are truly responsible for everything while you’re out, so having an experienced guide with the right temperament and attitude are a must—especially if things go wrong. I’m glad to say everything went as planned! I was able to spot several animals and some breathtaking scenery alongside good conversation within our group of former strangers. Great job, Scott and Glacier Guides!
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