GUIDED FLY FISHING TRIPS
Lightweight Fly Shop offers guided float trips on the Bitterroot River near Stevensville and Missoula, Montana.
FLOAT TRIPS
Float the Bitterroot or Blackfoot River with one of our experienced guides for a day of unforgettable fly fishing. Whether you choose a full-day adventure or a relaxed half-day float, we’ll cover some of Montana’s most scenic and productive trout water. Expect help with casting, fly selection, and reading the river—plus plenty of laughs and learning along the way. All gear is provided if needed, and full-day trips include a delicious riverside lunch. Great for beginners and seasoned anglers alike.
$575-650 For 1-2 Anglers
Half-Day & Full-Day Options
WHERE WE FISH
- We proudly operate on some of the most iconic rivers in the state:
- Bitterroot River
- Blackfoot River
- Upper Bitterroot River
- Clark Fork
PERMITS & LICENSING
Our operations are fully licensed and permitted:
- Bitterroot National Forest: Permit WF-1802
- Blackfoot River: Permit #38
- Upper Bitterroot River: Permit UBWF-#4
- Montana Board of Outfitters Licensee: #1509
- Outfitter: Andre Carlson
WADE FISHING
Explore Montana’s trout streams on foot with a guided wade trip tailored to your skill level. Our full- or half-day wade fishing trips are a hands-on way to connect with the river and sharpen your skills. We'll guide you through prime walk-in access points on the Bitterroot or surrounding waters, offering personalized instruction and insight every step of the way. All gear is available if needed—just bring your sense of adventure (and maybe an extra pair of socks).
$575-650 For 1-2 Anglers
Half-Day & Full-Day Options
FISH AND STAY
Stay in one of our AMAZING cabins with fishing just a few steps from either side of the property. The main Bitterroot is just one mile down the road! Amenities galore are available, and included in your booking.
Cabin and fishing packages start at just $750 for up to two people!
BOOK NOW
More Information
What Should I bring?
What to Wear:
- In the colder months (October through April), it’s best to dress in layers—think insulated outerwear, waders, wool socks, gloves, and a warm hat or beanie. When it warms up (May through September), go for sun-protective gear like sun hoodies or lightweight shirts, a hat, and quick-dry pants. We wear waders when it’s cold, but can't wait to ditch them as soon as it warms up! Rain gear’s never a bad idea either—better to have it and not need it!
- Polarized sunglasses
- Montana fishing license with AIS and Conservation License
- Water Bottle (Alcohol is not provided)
- Guide gratuity (recommended 10-25% of trip cost)
Pricing
Half Day Fly Fishing + Lodging
- 4 Hour Guided Float Fishing or Walk & Wade Trip $575 per day
- Non-alcoholic drinks provided
- Snacks provided
- Cabin prices vary from $229 - $329 per night LEARN MORE HERE
Full Day Fly Fishing + Lodging
- 6-8 Hour Guided Float Fishing or Walk & Wade Trip $650 per day
- Non-alcoholic drinks provided
- Full lunch provided
- Cabin prices vary from $229 - $329 per night LEARN MORE HERE
Meeting and Payment Policy
- Where is the meeting location?
Guided fly fishing trips meet at our fly shop located at 227 Bell Xing E - Stevensville, MT 59870 (unless otherwise arranged) - Do I need a Montana fishing license?
Yes! - What is your guided trip payment policy?
Guests pay a 50% deposit to secure their dates and the remaining 50% will be charged on the day of your guided trip to the card on file. We accept major card providers, checks, and cash. - What is your guided trip cancellation policy?
100% refund if cancelled at least 14 days before your arrival date. 50% refund if canceled at least 7 days before arrival.
Bitterroot River Guided Fly Fishing Trips
Lightweight Fly Shop offers guided fly fishing trips on the Bitterroot River in western Montana, launching from Stevensville in the heart of the Bitterroot Valley near Missoula.
Whether you're new to fly fishing or a seasoned angler chasing wild trout, our guided float trips give you access to some of the most productive water in the state.
Tyson Sugihara is the owner of Lightweight Fly Shop and a lifelong angler. Our trips focus on great fishing, relaxed instruction, and helping anglers experience Montana's legendary trout water the right way.
If you're looking for a Bitterroot River guided fly fishing trip, you're in the right place.
What to Expect
A typical day on the Bitterroot begins with a relaxed morning meet-up at the shop or launch site. After getting geared up, you'll float some of the river's best trout water, targeting fish that made this area famous!
The Bitterroot is known for its variety. Long riffles, deep buckets, cut banks, and classic Montana runs all hold fish. Depending on conditions, we may fish nymph rigs, dry flies, or streamers.
Expect incredible scenery, active trout, and a laid-back day on one of Montana's most respected rivers.
Most trips run as full-day float trips, allowing us to cover miles of productive water and give you the best chance at consistent action.
What’s Included
Your guided Bitterroot River fly fishing trip includes everything needed for a successful day on the water:
• Professional fly fishing guide
• Drift boat/raft float trip on the Bitterroot River
• Fly rods, reels, and premium fly lines
• Flies and terminal tackle
• Streamside lunch and drinks
• Transportation during the float
You are welcome to bring your own gear if you prefer, but we are fully equipped to outfit anglers of all experience levels.
Who These Trips Are For
Our Bitterroot River guided fly fishing trips are perfect for:
• First-time fly anglers wanting to learn the sport
• Visiting anglers exploring Montana's trout water
• Couples or friends looking for a memorable outdoor day
• Experienced anglers wanting local river knowledge
• Anglers chasing famous Bitterroot hatches like the Skwala stonefly
Whether you're brand new or have been fly fishing for decades, our goal is simple: help you have a great day on the river.
Why Fish the Bitterroot With Lightweight Fly Shop
Lightweight Fly Shop is more than just a guide service.
We are a local fly shop and guiding operation built around the Bitterroot River.
That means:
• Up-to-date river knowledge
• Daily awareness of flows, hatches, and conditions
• The right flies for what fish are actually eating
• Local experience on the Bitterroot, Blackfoot, Clark Fork, East Fork, and West Fork
When you book with Lightweight Fly Shop, you're fishing with guides who live here, fish here constantly, and care deeply about the river.
Best Times to Book
The Bitterroot offers excellent fly fishing throughout the season.
Spring (March – April)
Famous Skwala stonefly hatch and strong nymph fishing.
Summer (June – August)
Dry fly fishing, terrestrial patterns, and long productive floats.
Fall (September – October)
Aggressive trout feeding before winter and beautiful fall scenery.
Each season offers a different experience, but the Bitterroot consistently produces fish and unforgettable days on the water.
Book Your Bitterroot River Fly Fishing Trip
Booking your Bitterroot River guided fly fishing trip is simple.
Click the link below, or call the shop directly to reserve your date:
Tyson Sugihara
Lightweight Fly Shop
(406) 499-7729
We recommend booking early during peak seasons, especially during the Skwala hatch and summer dry fly fishing.
Whether you're visiting Montana or live nearby, we'd love to show you what makes the Bitterroot River such a special place to fish.
Why the Bitterroot River Is Special
The Bitterroot River is one of Montana’s most respected trout fisheries. Flowing for more than 80 miles through the Bitterroot Valley before joining the Clark Fork River near Missoula, it offers diverse water, healthy trout populations, and legendary dry-fly fishing opportunities.
Anglers travel from around the country to fish the Bitterroot for:
• the famous Skwala stonefly hatch in spring
• summer dry fly fishing with caddis and terrestrials
• aggressive fall trout feeding before winter
Its mix of riffles, seams, and deep buckets makes it a perfect river for guided float trips.
