Trip Planning
Everything you need to prepare for your stay — from travel options and gateway cities to fishing licenses and a helpful packing list.
Gateway Cities
Three convenient gateway cities serve Montana Fly Fishing Lodge. The best option depends on your travel plans and point of origin. We provide complimentary airport transfers from Billings (BIL).
Billings, Montana (BIL)
Billings Logan International Airport. Complimentary airport transfers included with all packages.
Airlines: Delta, United, Frontier, Alaska
Car Rentals: Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, Alamo/National
Bozeman, Montana (BZN)
Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport. A popular option for guests combining their trip with Yellowstone National Park.
Airlines: Delta, United, Frontier, Alaska
Car Rentals: Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, Alamo/National
Cody, Wyoming (YRA)
Yellowstone Regional Airport. A scenic route from the south through the Beartooth Highway corridor.
Airlines: Delta/SkyWest, United/Mesa
Car Rentals: Avis, Budget, Hertz, Thrifty
What to Bring
Everything you need for a day of fishing — rod, reel, boots, waders, flies, and end tackle — is included in your package. Here's what we recommend bringing from home.
License Information
Montana fishing licenses are required for both residents and non-residents. Licenses may be purchased online in advance, or our staff will be happy to assist you upon arrival.
To legally fish in Montana, anglers must hold:
Licenses vary based on the number of days you plan to fish and include 1-day, 2-day, 4-day, 10-day, and seasonal options.
Due to the variety of waters fished during your stay, guests may also need a Yellowstone National Park or Wyoming fishing license. Fishing locations are determined by weather, water conditions, and preferences — and are not finalized in advance.
Montana Fly Fishing Lodge strictly practices barbless, catch-and-release fishing.
Tipping Guidelines
Our approach to hospitality is thoughtful, personal, and delivered with care at every touchpoint. Many guests ask how gratuities are typically handled during their stay — these are guidelines only, always at your discretion.
Lodge Staff
We operate a shared gratuity pool across the entire lodge team — kitchen, housekeeping, and the people behind the details you may never see. Each person contributes to the overall experience.
Customary: $100 per guest, per night, shared among the team. Typically handled at the conclusion of your stay; cash or added to your final invoice — whichever is most convenient.
Fly Fishing Guide
Your guide is responsible for shaping each day on the water — preparation, execution, and the personal relationship that develops over a day in a drift boat.
Customary: $200 per guide, per day (for one or two anglers), handled directly between you and your guide. Given at the end of each day or at the conclusion of your stay, whichever feels most natural.
If there is anything we can do to further elevate your time here, we're always glad to help.
Travel Insurance
In today's travel environment, we strongly suggest protecting your travel investment against unforeseen emergencies by securing travel insurance prior to departure.
Why We Recommend It
Our Recommendation
Begin Your Montana Story
Whether it's your first trip or your twentieth, there's always new water to discover. Let us help you plan the perfect fly fishing experience.
