Bozeman Fly Fishing Guide Trip FAQs

What is the Deposit and Cancellation policy?

Deposits & Payments

• A 50% deposit is required for all trips booked more than 30 days in advance.
• The remaining balance must be paid in full no later than 14 days prior to your trip.
• Trips booked within 30 days of the trip date require full payment at the time of booking.

Cancellations & Refunds

• Cancellations made more than 30 days prior to the trip will receive a full refund.
• Cancellations within 30 days of the trip date will forfeit the 50% deposit.
• Cancellations within 14 days of the trip date are non-refundable and will be charged the full price of the guide trip.

***All refunds to credit cards are subject to a 5% processing/service fee.

Large Group Bookings (8+ Anglers)
Large group reservations (8 or more anglers) require full payment of the total trip cost at the time of booking when secured more than 60 days in advance. All large group bookings are non-refundable within 60 days of the first day of the scheduled trip.

Our cancellation policy is firm and applies to all cancellation reasons, including unforeseen circumstances and last-minute travel delays. This includes cancellations due to travel changes, personal emergencies, illness, or other life events. Changes in travel plans, weather variations, or itinerary adjustments do not automatically qualify for a refund outside of our standard cancellation terms.

We reserve the right to issue refunds on a case-by-case basis at our sole discretion.

Montana weather and water conditions can vary widely. We do not cancel or refund trips due to inclement weather such as rain, wind, snow, smoky air, or normal river fluctuations. Trips operate in safe and fishable conditions whenever possible.

Full refunds will be issued if Rising Trout Fly Fishing Outfitters must cancel a trip due to unsafe weather, hazardous river conditions, guide illness, or other circumstances that make it unsafe or impossible to operate. If rescheduling is not feasible, a full refund will be provided.

Do I need experience to go on a guided fly fishing trip?

No experience is necessary to enjoy a guided fly fishing trip. Many of our guests are beginners who want to learn the basics of fly fishing while exploring Montana’s beautiful rivers. Our guides provide instruction on casting, reading water, fly selection, and landing fish so anglers of all skill levels can have a great day on the river.

What rivers do your Bozeman fly fishing guide trips fish?

Our guided fly fishing trips take place on some of the best trout rivers in southwest Montana including the Madison River, Gallatin River, Yellowstone River, and Missouri River as well as numerous private water spring creeks and lakes. Depending on fishing conditions, weather, and time of year, our guides choose the river that is fishing best to give anglers the best experience possible.

What is included in a guided fly fishing trip?

Our guided fly fishing trips include professional guide service, rods and reels, flies, leaders and tippet, terminal tackle, and all necessary fishing gear. Full-day trips typically include lunch and beverages as well. We focus on making the experience simple so anglers can spend their time enjoying the river.

What’s not included on guide trips?

Fishing licenses for clients are not included but can be purchased at local fly shops or online at Montana FWP Website

Gratuity for your guide - typically 20-25% is appreciated for our hard working guides.

How much does a guided fly fishing trip cost in Montana?

Guided fly fishing trips in Montana typically range from $550–$750 for a full day trip depending on the river and trip style. Pricing usually includes the guide, boat (if applicable), fishing equipment, and flies. At Rising Trout Fly Fishing Outfitters we offer both full day and half day guided fly fishing trips near Bozeman.

What should I bring on the trip?

Personal items and clothing for the elements. The weather in Montana can be very unpredictable, please come prepared with layering, rain/snow gear, hats and sunglasses and sunscreen. If you need waders or wading boots, they can be rented at many local fly shops.

Our guides will have all the fishing gear you will needs ie. rods, reels, flies, and terminal tackle. Clients are more than welcome to fish their own rods if they please.

Read Our Full Blog on What to Bring on a Montana Guide Trip

When is the best time to fly fish in Montana?

Fly fishing in Montana is productive from early spring through late fall. Spring offers excellent nymph fishing and emerging insect hatches, summer is known for dry fly fishing and terrestrial patterns, and fall can bring aggressive trout feeding before winter. Each season offers unique opportunities on rivers around Bozeman.

Are lunches included?

Lunches are included on all full day trips. Lunches typically consist of but aren’t limited to a hearty sandwich, fruit, chips and a snack.

Lunches are Not included on Half Day trips but you are welcome to bring snacks or your own lunch.

**Please mention any allergies or dietary restrictions at time of booking or arrangement of meeting with guide.

How many anglers can go on a guided trip?

Each trip is designed for one or two anglers.

We DO NOT Allow 3rd person angler on trips with the exception of a children under 12. There is an additional fee of $200 for the child.

Where do we meet our guide?

The outfitter or your guide will contact you before the trip to set up a meeting place. Typically we either meet at a local fly shop or a meeting place near the river you are fishing. Sometimes pick ups and drop offs can be arranged.

Can we bring alcohol on guided trips?

Alcohol is allowed on trips as long as it is consumed responsibly, and cannot be provided by the guide.

Can kids go on guided fly fishing trips?

Yes. Fly fishing trips can be a great outdoor experience for kids and families. Our guides enjoy helping younger anglers learn the basics of fishing while making the day fun and engaging.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Montana weather can change quickly, but fishing is often still productive in cloudy or lightly rainy conditions. Guides monitor weather and river conditions closely and will communicate with guests if conditions require adjustments.

Should I book a fly fishing trip in advance?

During the peak summer fishing season in Montana, guide calendars can fill up weeks or even months in advance. We recommend booking your trip as early as possible if you have specific travel dates.

Where should we stay?

Bozeman is centrally located for many fishing options and has lots of hotels and restaurants and a vibrant downtown. If you are looking for something slower paced, many of our clients find Ennis or Livingston or some of the surrounding small towns to be a little more quiet.

Visit Our Lodging Partners Page

Other Questions or Concerns

Please feel free to contact us via email or phone if you have any other questions or concerns and we would be happy to help answer them for you. Contact Us