What's included in a guided fly fishing trip?

Daily rates are based on 1–2 anglers and include a licensed Frontier Anglers professional guide, the drift boat, a streamside lunch provided by the Frontier Anglers Kitchen, and non-alcoholic beverages. Gratuity, fishing licenses, and the booking fee are not included.

How much does a guided trip cost?

Day trip rates are $750 for the boat for one or two anglers, excluding fishing license, gratuity, and booking fee. Book before May 15th and the Early Spring Special takes $100 off. Private water carries a rod fee of $125 per angler per day.

Do I need my own rod and reel for a guide trip?

No. We provide quality rods, reels, and flies on every guided trip. You're welcome to bring your own gear if you'd prefer to fish it, and the shop carries a full selection if you'd like to buy in before your day on the water.

Do I need waders for fishing in Montana?

It depends on the trip and the season. Many drift boat days don't require them, but having your own waders is ideal for spring and fall, and for wade trips. Rental programs exist locally; call the shop and we'll tell you what you'll actually want for your dates.

Do I need a Montana fishing license?

Yes — licenses are not included in the trip rate. You can purchase a Montana fishing license online from Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks before your trip, or pick one up at the shop when you arrive.

How much should I tip my guide?

A service industry standard tip of around 15–20% is customary when your guide does a good job. On a $750 boat that's roughly $120–$160 between two anglers. Cash is preferred, and most guides accept Venmo. Please don't tip on a card or by check at the shop — it delays the guide's pay and adds payroll deductions.

When is the best time to fish Southwest Montana?

Our guiding season runs March through November. March through May is quiet with eager fish and rising water temps. June and July bring the Big Hole salmonfly hatch and peak dry fly fishing. Late summer on the Beaverhead delivers big-dry, big-fish action, and cranefly season in August can be the most outrageous dry fly fishing of the year.

What is your cancellation policy?

Cancellations 31–60 days before your reservation are charged the full deposit. Cancellations within 30 days are billed the full trip amount. In an emergency we're glad to transfer your reservation to a later date, pending availability, at no charge. Private water and accommodation cancellations received within 60 days are billed one full day or half the total expected cost, whichever is greater.

How far in advance should I book?

As early as you can. June and July on the Big Hole book out well in advance, and private water tends to book early too. Guiding and outfitting usage on both the Big Hole and the Beaverhead was capped in 1997, which keeps the rivers less crowded but also means there are a fixed number of guided days available.

Where is the Frontier Anglers fly shop?

680 N Montana St, Dillon, MT 59725. We're open year-round — Monday through Saturday 8:00a–5:00p and Sunday 8:00a–4:00p. Call us at (406) 683-5276 or toll free at 1-800-228-5263.

Fishing Report

June 4, 2025

June 4, 2025 · 1 min read

It’s that time! They are here! Salmonfly fishing was in full swing yesterday for a couple of our guides. With the weekend coming, we expect this news will bring a lot of anglers to the river. Stock up on bugs, consider going earlier or fishing later to avoid peak crowds and as always please be kind and courteous to other anglers and guides. Frontier Anglers is stocked up on our favorite patterns for the hatch. The last thing you want to be is unprepared and not have the right bug when others are having all time days. The right bug depends on conditions and sometimes angler confidence. Streamer fishing as well as deep nymphing can be productive as well if the fish are outisde of a dry bite window. Worms, rubber legs, and mayfly nymphs have fished well prior to the hatch.

The Beaverhead can empty out during the salmonfly hatch as many anglers and guides stay up on the Big Hole for several days. Tiny midge, mayfly and sow bugs of various colors have worked below the dam. A mix of larger mayfly patterns, worms, and sow bugs have fished well below high bridge. Daytime Beaverhead shuttles are available out of the shop. Call or stop by to arrange.