About Your Trip
Head out with Dan, aka "Rooster," for an action-packed overnight fishing trip in Twin Bridges, Montana! This area of Southwest Montana is home of the Big Hole, Beaverhead, Ruby, Madison, and Jefferson Rivers. Experience world-class fly fishing, accommodations, fly shop, and guides located in the heart of Montana's Blue Ribbon Trout Country!
Rooster and his team's goal is simple, to give you an experience you will never forget. With the best in the business Montana
fly fishing guides, they have packages for all anglers. Stay at the Stonefly Inn, bring your fly rod, your buddy or spouse, and do a self-guided trip and they are happy to point you in the right direction.
Rooster and his team consists of a very diverse, seasoned guide staff - one that has been cultivated over the last 15 years. Whether you are a beginner or experienced angler, they make sure to pair you up accordingly. While everyone has their niche - these guides have a very good sense of teamwork and will stop at nothing to make certain you walk away a better fisherman than when you arrived.
**Available Waters:**
The Big Hole River - Fed by three different mountain ranges, dozens of freestone creeks and flowing over 100 miles, the Big Hole River is one of those places you just can't get off your mind. Often referred to as "The Last Best River", the Big Hole fishes well from ice out in April until the winter weather hits in November. Limited outfitter use makes this river a first choice for many guest anglers.
The Beaverhead River - One of the three great tailwaters in Big Sky Country. Stable water flows, dense populations of trout, and great insect life make this river a great option almost any time of year. Multiple spring creek influxes below Dillon create some great clear water opportunities to fish dry flies during the heat of the summer. Big browns on hoppers. A great river to fly fish.
The Madison River - They say you have to have an ace in the hole. If Rooster had to pick a river to fit that bill, it would be the "Maddy". Astonishing numbers of trout and good water flows through the summer months keep the rods bent when fishing might be tough elsewhere.
The Jefferson River - Formed in Twin Bridges by the confluence of the Big Hole, Beaverhead, and Ruby Rivers, the Jefferson flows northbound over eighty miles to the confluence of the Madison and Gallatin Rivers to form the Missouri. Receiving less pressure than any of the others, this is one of those fisheries that you have to see to believe.
The Ruby River - As our friends refer to secret spots - the Ruby River is a "sleeper". From the dam to Twin Bridges there is over 40 miles of twisting, turning trout water. Good public access makes this a great place to spend an afternoon before, during or after your trip.
**Seasons:**
There are three main seasons when it comes to Montana fishing. Get your line in the water when the fish are most hungry in the peak season, or get world-class fishing at a discount in the shoulder season.
Early season (Shoulder) - April, May, and June – The Rocky Mountains can deliver some pretty severe weather during these early months of the fishing season. You should plan accordingly, and realize that the weather can be here today - gone tomorrow. You will want breathable waders, felt or rubber soled boots, raingear, layers of fleece, gloves, hats, glasses and hats. We could also have summer weather as early as late May, so make sure to pack a couple pairs of shorts and your favorite fishing shirt.
Summer season (Peak) - June, July, August, and September - With the summer upon us, you can expect temperatures to range from cool in the early a.m. to downright hot in the afternoons. Long sleeve fishing shirts, broad billed hats, and polarized sunglasses can relieve some of the summer sun. Although shorts and wading sandals are the norm, summer thunderstorms are common in SW Montana, so always have a light rain jacket in your gear bag.
Fall season (Shoulder) - September, October and November - As the summer winds to a close, we say goodbye to the dog days and welcome cooler mornings and warm afternoons. September is hopper month in these parts, so a stout 6 wt. is a good choice. By the middle of September the water temps have fallen to the point that you’ll likely be more comfortable wearing waders. For those that plan an October trip to Montana, your gear bag should include layers of fleece, raingear, a warm hat, gloves and of course a good pair of glasses.
**Lodging:**
For those wanting a true Western fly fishing experience, The Stonefly Inn is the perfect choice. Located in the heart of Twin Bridges on Main Street, minutes from world class rivers that offer the best trout fishing in Montana. These all-inclusive packages cover all Montana farm-to-table meals cooked by an awesome chef, lodging in one of the cabins, guided fishing, flies, rods, reels, all terminal tackle. The recently renovated cabins have upgraded mattresses, new linens and furnishings. The common area is a great gathering place with comfortable seating, TV, screened porch, dining tables, bar. The outdoor fireplace area is a favorite among guests, a great place to hang out in the evenings and they keep it stocked with firewood all season. You have full use of the on site amenities when you book with Rooster and his team. Their fly shop is also located on the property if you need supplies.
**Rod, Line and Fly Recommendations:**
Rooster and his gang strongly recommend a 9ft or 9.5ft, 6 weight rod. A 5 weight will do almost anything a 6 will, but you might have to work harder to get the fly to the fish in the wind. And yes, the wind has been known to blow out in the Rocky Mountains!
They prefer WF lines. Their favorites are the Scientific Anglers Sharkwave and Trout Stalker. When it comes to leaders, anything 7.5ft 2,3 & 4X class will work fine.
When you fish with them, the flies are included in your package, and they have plenty of them. Their guides carry hundreds if not thousands of the patterns that work on their local waters and their shop bins are fully stocked with tried and true flies. However, if you would like to tie some flies of your own, they recommend giving the shop a call and they can advise you further. In the meantime you can rarely go wrong with these:
1. Chubby Chernobyl – Peach, Orange, Purple, Tan, size 6-12
2. Prince Nymph – tungsten beads are better, CDC Collars are great, size 12-16
3. Pat’s Stone – Tan, Brown, Black and Olive, size 4-12
4. Pheasant tail – Tungsten, no flashback, size 12-20
**Montana Fishing License Requirements:**
You will need to purchase a conservation license, along with a fishing license that will cover the amount of days you plan on fishing. They are sold in 2’s and 10’s as well as a full season. Rooster recommends purchasing your license online prior to arrival, as they are not a license agent – it will help expedite getting you on the river!
**Food and Drink:**
Your dining experience is certain to be a highlight of your fishing trip! Rooster and his team strive to accommodate all dietary restrictions. If you require any special dietary consideration or have food allergies please do let them know and they will make sure your needs are provided for. They generally serve wine with dinner. If you are someone that enjoys an evening cocktail or beer, there is a liquor store a few doors down that is well stocked. Many guests provide a bottle or 2 to share with their fellow anglers during the course of their stay at Stonefly.
Amenities
Skill Levels
Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced
Tackle
All rods, reels, and tackle are included.
Beer
Feel free to enjoy responsibly, but please no glass.
Live Bait
Live bait is included for this trip.
Weather
You won’t lose your deposit if the trip is canceled due to weather.
Flexible Cancelation
This trip can be canceled for a refund up to 14 days before the trip.
Lunch
Lunch / light snacks are included.
Fish Cleaning
No cleaning service provided.
Boat Restroom
No, this boat does not have a bathroom on board.
Kid Friendly
This trip is best for adults.
Disability Friendly
This trip is not suited for those with disabilities.
