Damn Good Ruby River Fishing Guides

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Recently Booked Fishing Guides In The Ruby River

Fishing in Destin
Fishing in Destin
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Sheridan’s Finest Fly Fishing

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14 ft 1 - 4 People From $575
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Overnight Day Trip (Peak Season)

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Top Species for Fishing in the Ruby River

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Everything to Know About Booking a Fishing Guide in the Ruby River

What are the best fishing trips in the Ruby River?

The best fishing trips in the Ruby River are:

Why should I book a fishing trip in the Ruby River with Captain Experiences?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 5 trips in the Ruby River, and the most popular trips in the area are Overnight Day Trip (Peak Season) guided by Dan, Montana River Fly Trip guided by Dan, and Sheridan’s Finest Fly Fishing guided by Michael.

All guides on Captain Experiences are vetted by our team. You can access their reviews, click through trip photos, read bios to get to know them, and preview trip details like species, techniques, group sizes, boat specs and more.

Looking for kid friendly guides / fishing lessons in the Ruby River? Check out our beginner and family friendly guides in the Ruby River.

What types of fishing trips are common in the Ruby River?

River fishing is the most popular type of fishing in the Ruby River as well as lake fishing.

The most commonly sought after species in the Ruby River are: 1. brown trout, 2. rainbow trout, 3. brook trout, and 4. cutthroat trout.

The most common fishing techniques in the Ruby River are fly fishing, wading, and drift fishing.

How much does a the Ruby River fishing trip cost?

Prices in the Ruby River can range anywhere from about $620 to $3,595, but the average price for a half day trip in the Ruby River is $863. The average price for a full day trip in the Ruby River is $2,070.

Is booking a fishing guide worth the money?

Hiring a guide provides a number of benefits and many choose to book a fishing guide for a combination of experience, local knowledge, convenience, and cost-effectiveness.

Working with experienced fishing guides who know the best local spots and techniques can dramatically increase your odds of a great day. Having someone who is on the water every day and knows the area like the back of their hand is going to give you the best chances of success.

Booking a guide is also more cost effective, especially if you only get out a handful of times per year. When you consider all of the costs you would incur on your own such as the price of a boat, maintenance, insurance, gas, high-quality gear and tackle, repairs, and more, you’ll find that DIY is sometimes not worth the expense.

Even if you’ve got a great setup already in your home waters, booking a guide also provides a great opportunity to experience new techniques, new locations, or even a chance at a new target species to knock off the bucket list.

What month is best for fishing in the Ruby River?

The most popular season for fishing in the Ruby River is summer, and most anglers book their trips 0 days in advance.

Do I need a the Ruby River fishing license and what are the bag limits in the Ruby River?

See here for more information on fishing licenses in the Ruby River, bag limits for target species, and fishing season regulations in the Ruby River. When in doubt, your fishing guide will always know the right rules and regulations in the Ruby River.

What is fishing in Ruby River all about?

Fishing in the Ruby River, nestled in the picturesque landscapes of southwestern Montana, offers anglers a serene and rewarding experience amidst pristine natural surroundings. Renowned for its clear waters and abundant trout populations, the Ruby River attracts fly fishermen from far and wide seeking the thrill of catching wild trout in a tranquil setting. Brown trout and rainbow trout are the primary species found in the Ruby River, with some sections also supporting populations of cutthroat trout. The river's healthy fish populations and varied habitat, including riffles, pools, and runs, provide ample opportunities for anglers of all skill levels to test their fly fishing prowess.

Fly fishing is the predominant method used in the Ruby River, owing to its designation as a blue-ribbon trout stream. Anglers can expect to encounter challenging yet rewarding fishing conditions, with opportunities to cast dry flies, nymphs, and streamers to rising trout. The river's clear waters and diverse insect life make for excellent dry fly fishing, particularly during hatches of mayflies, caddisflies, and stoneflies. Stealth and accuracy are essential when presenting flies to wary trout in the Ruby River's gin-clear waters, adding an element of excitement and skill to the angling experience.

In addition to fly fishing, spin fishing is also permitted in the Ruby River, offering an alternative method for anglers to pursue trout. Light spinning tackle, equipped with small lures, spoons, or bait, can be effective for targeting trout in deeper pools and runs. Anglers may also choose to use natural baits such as worms or minnows to entice trout, particularly in sections of the river where fly fishing is less practical. Whether you prefer the artistry of fly casting or the simplicity of spin fishing, the Ruby River provides a peaceful and scenic backdrop for anglers to enjoy the timeless pursuit of trout fishing amidst Montana's rugged beauty.

What are the most popular months to fish in Ruby River?

Fishing in the Ruby River, situated in southwestern Montana, offers anglers a captivating experience through changing seasons. Spring marks the beginning of the fishing season on the Ruby River, with eager anglers venturing out to cast their lines. As the snow melts and temperatures rise, the river swells with runoff, creating ideal conditions for catching rainbow and brown trout. During this time, nymph and streamer fishing are particularly effective, as trout become more active in search of food.

Summer brings warmer weather and clearer waters to the Ruby River, making it a prime time for fly fishing enthusiasts. With the hatches in full swing, anglers can expect to encounter abundant insect activity, attracting hungry trout to the surface. Dry fly fishing becomes the preferred method during this season, as trout eagerly rise to feed on mayflies, caddisflies, and stoneflies. Whether wading or floating, anglers can enjoy the peaceful serenity of the Ruby River while casting their lines in pursuit of these prized gamefish.

As fall sets in, the Ruby River offers anglers one last chance to reel in some impressive catches before winter. Cooler temperatures and shorter days trigger the spawning season for trout, prompting them to become more aggressive in their feeding behavior. Streamer fishing becomes highly productive as trout aggressively strike at baitfish imitations. Additionally, the autumn scenery along the Ruby River, with its vibrant foliage and crisp air, creates a picturesque backdrop for anglers seeking a memorable fishing experience before the river freezes over for the winter.

What types of fishing are popular in Ruby River?

Fishing in the Ruby River, nestled in the scenic landscapes of southwestern Montana, offers anglers a diverse range of fishing experiences. One of the most popular methods is fly fishing, owing to the Ruby River's designation as a blue-ribbon trout stream. Anglers can expect to encounter challenging yet rewarding fishing conditions, with opportunities to cast dry flies, nymphs, and streamers to rising trout. The river's clear waters and diverse insect life make for excellent dry fly fishing, particularly during hatches of mayflies, caddisflies, and stoneflies. Stealth and accuracy are essential when presenting flies to wary trout in the Ruby River's gin-clear waters, adding an element of excitement and skill to the angling experience.

Spin fishing is also a prevalent technique in the Ruby River, offering an alternative method for anglers to pursue trout. Light spinning tackle, equipped with small lures, spoons, or bait, can be effective for targeting trout in deeper pools and runs. Anglers may also choose to use natural baits such as worms or minnows to entice trout, particularly in sections of the river where fly fishing is less practical. Spin fishing provides a versatile and accessible option for anglers of all skill levels, allowing them to explore different parts of the river and adapt to changing conditions.

Additionally, bait fishing is another method used in the Ruby River, particularly for anglers seeking a more relaxed and traditional fishing experience. Using natural baits like worms or minnows, anglers can target trout in the river's slower-moving sections and deeper pools. Bait fishing is accessible to beginners and experienced anglers alike, offering a straightforward yet effective way to catch trout in the Ruby River. Whether you prefer the artistry of fly casting, the simplicity of spin fishing, or the traditional approach of bait fishing, the Ruby River provides a rich and rewarding fishing experience amidst Montana's stunning natural beauty.

What species are popular in Ruby River?

The Ruby River, nestled in the picturesque landscapes of southwestern Montana, offers anglers a rich diversity of fishing species to pursue throughout the year. One of the most prized catches in the Ruby River is the rainbow trout. Known for their vibrant colors and spirited fights, rainbow trout are plentiful in these waters, particularly during the spring and summer months. Anglers can expect to find rainbow trout lurking in riffles, pools, and undercut banks, eagerly taking nymphs, dry flies, and streamers presented with precision and finesse.

Brown trout are another sought-after species in the Ruby River, renowned for their wily behavior and elusive nature. These majestic fish can be found in deeper pools, undercut banks, and beneath overhanging vegetation, where they lie in wait for unsuspecting prey. Anglers often target brown trout using a variety of techniques, including nymphing, dry fly fishing, and streamer fishing. With their impressive size and cunning tactics, catching a trophy brown trout in the Ruby River is a rewarding challenge for any angler.

In addition to rainbow and brown trout, the Ruby River also supports populations of mountain whitefish. While not as glamorous as their trout counterparts, whitefish offer anglers a fun and accessible fishing experience. These native fish can be found in the slower-moving stretches of the river, where they feed on aquatic insects and small crustaceans. Anglers often catch whitefish using nymphs, small streamers, and dry flies, providing an enjoyable alternative to trout fishing in the Ruby River's pristine waters.

Does Ruby River have good fishing?

The Ruby River, nestled in the scenic Ruby Valley of southwestern Montana, is a hidden gem for anglers seeking a peaceful and productive fishing experience. Known for its healthy populations of brown, rainbow, and cutthroat trout, the river offers excellent opportunities for fly fishing. The Ruby River's diverse habitats, including deep pools, riffles, and meandering channels, provide ideal conditions for these fish to thrive, making it a rewarding destination for anglers of all skill levels.

Fishing on the Ruby River is particularly appealing due to its relatively low fishing pressure compared to more well-known rivers in Montana. This means that anglers can often enjoy a more tranquil and solitary experience, with less competition for the best fishing spots. The river's clear waters and abundant insect life support a robust trout population, and anglers can expect to catch sizable fish throughout much of the year. The Ruby River's smaller size also allows for easier wading and access to prime fishing locations.

The surrounding landscape adds to the charm of fishing on the Ruby River. The river flows through a picturesque valley, with rolling hills, lush meadows, and stunning mountain backdrops. Public access points and fishing easements along the river make it convenient for anglers to find suitable spots to fish, whether they prefer wading or bank fishing. The Ruby River's serene environment and excellent fishing conditions make it an ideal choice for those seeking a memorable and enjoyable fishing adventure in Montana.

Top Targeted Fishing Species in the Ruby River

Top Fishing Techniques in the Ruby River

Top Types of Fishing in the Ruby River

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