Montana Fly Fishing Packing List: What to Bring on a Guided Trip
Montana Fly Fishing Packing List: What to Bring, What’s Included & What People Forget
Packing for a Montana fly fishing trip doesn’t need to be complicated — but bringing the right items can make a big difference in your comfort and experience on the water.
One of the biggest questions we get at Rising Trout Fly Fishing Outfitters is:
“What do I need to bring?”
The good news is that guided trips cover most of the technical gear. Your job is mainly to prepare for weather, comfort, and personal preferences.
This guide breaks down:
What to bring
What’s included on guided trips
What’s not included
Commonly overlooked items that make a day way better
What Guides Typically Provide (So You Don’t Overpack)
Most Montana outfitters and guides — including us — supply the core fishing gear so you can show up ready to fish without owning equipment. Many guests don’t need to bring gear at all unless they prefer their own setups.
Included on most guided trips
Fly rods, reels, and lines
Flies and terminal tackle (leaders, tippet, indicators, weights)
Nets and tools (forceps, nippers, floatant)
Boats, safety gear, and guide instruction
Lunch on full day trips
Local knowledge (the most important piece)
You’re always welcome to bring your own rods or flies — many anglers do — but it’s not required.
What You Should Bring (The Essentials)
The important personal items we recommend - clothing layers, sun protection, eyewear, and personal items.
Clothing & Layers
Montana weather changes quickly — even summer days can swing dramatically.
Bring:
Moisture-wicking base layers
Insulating mid layer (fleece/down)
Rain jacket (must have)
Fishing pants or quick-dry pants
Extra socks
Warm hat + sun hat or Baseball Cap
Waders for colder/rainy weather - Can be rented at local fly shops.
Water shoes/sandals or shoes you might not mind getting wet.
Footwear
Depends on season and trip style:
Sandals or boat shoes for summer floats
Wading boots if wading - can be rented at local fly shops
Comfortable travel shoes
Personal Gear
Polarized sunglasses (huge)
Sunscreen
Buff / sun protection
Reusable water bottle
Snacks (especially half day trips)
Phone or camera
Small dry bag or backpack
Documents
Montana fishing license
ID
Any medications
Fishing Gear You Can Bring (Optional)
Some anglers like fishing their own setup.
If that’s you:
Favorite rod
Personal fly boxes
Specialty lines
Wading staff
Sling pack / vest
But don’t stress — a 5- or 6-weight rod covers most Montana trout fishing and guides usually have everything dialed.
What’s NOT Included on Most Guided Trips
Typically not included:
Fishing license
Guide gratuity
Alcohol
Snacks on half day trips
Personal clothing
Waders and Wading boots- Can be rented at most local fly shops
The Most Overlooked Items (These Make a Big Difference)
The Most Overlooked Items (These Make a Big Difference)
Chapstick - Wind + sun = cracked lips fast.
Extra socks - Cold feet ruin days.
Lightweight gloves - Even summer mornings can be chilly.
Small towel - Boat spray, rain, fish slime.
Phone battery pack - Photos + maps drain phones.
Sunglasses retainer - People lose them constantly.
A change of clothes in the truck - Underrated.
Pro Guide Advice: Don’t Overpack
The biggest mistake first-time anglers make is bringing too much gear.
You don’t need:
15 fly boxes
Multiple rods
Heavy bags on the boat
Guided trips are designed to simplify the experience.
Focus on comfort — we handle the fishing.
Final Thoughts
A little preparation goes a long way toward making your Montana fly fishing trip relaxed, comfortable, and memorable.
If you’re unsure about what to bring, just ask. Every trip is different depending on river, season, and weather — and we’re happy to help you plan.
Planning a trip this season?
Reach out anytime and we’ll help you build a simple packing plan for your dates.
