2023 Montana Fly Fishing Gear List

If you're interested in traveling with us or have any questions about the gear mentioned below, don't hesitate to reach out. Give us a call or visit our shop, and our knowledgeable staff will be more than happy to assist you. We love sharing our expertise and helping fellow anglers prepare for their next adventure out West. Whether you're on the East Coast or anywhere else, we're here to provide guidance and make your fly fishing experience unforgettable. So get in touch with us today and let's plan your dream trip together!

GEAR WALKTHROUGH VIDEO

Planning a fly fishing trip to Montana and not sure what gear to pack? We've got you covered! After years of experience, we've put together a comprehensive list of essential items that strike the perfect balance between having enough gear and avoiding overpacking. So let's dive into the details:

Packs and Luggage

Yeti Flip Cooler: This may seem like overkill, but it's great for storing lunches and drinks while driving between different rivers or when renting a boat without a cooler.

Fishpond Submersible Lumbar Pack: An excellent fishing pack with enough space to store your tools, flies, and terminal tackle.

Fishpond Dakota Carry-On: This luggage can accommodate rods up to 9 feet in length, making it TSA-approved for easy overhead storage. It's ideal for carrying multiple rods and reels on your trip.

Fishpond Grand Teton Rolling Bag: A fantastic bag to organize and store all your clothing, wading boots, and other gear for the week.

Fishing Pack Essentials

Tools: Abel pliers, Loon Mitten Scissor Clamps, scissors for trimming indicators, a Hatch knot tensioning tool, and Hatch nippers.

Indicators and Flies: Carry a Fishpond puck with yarn indicators, Airlocks, Oros, and an assortment of dry flies and small streamers in a Fishpond Pescador and RiverMag.

Weights and Accessories: Pack a selection of Loon River camo weights, rubber bands for Dorsey-style indicators, and a Yakoda Utility Wallet for leaders.

Leaders and Tippet

Leaders: Bring a pack of 9-foot 4X and 3X nylon leaders, along with a 10-foot 4X stealth leader for stealthy presentations to picky fish. For streamer fishing, a spool of 16-pound Hatch fluorocarbon tippet.

Tippet: Carry 3X and 4X nylon tippet, as well as 3X and 4X fluorocarbon tippet.

Floatants and Accessories

High & Dry Liquid Floatant: Use this for applying on yarn indicators and hoppers.

Liquid Spray: Easy to use on PMD-style dry flies.

Powder and Brush: Use high and dry powder with a brush for larger hoppers and dry flies.

Easy Dry: Great for shaking out bigger hoppers and dry flies.

Rods, Reels, and Lines

Rods: Depending on your preferences, consider bringing a few 4, 5, and 7-weight rods like Red Truck Diesel, Scott Centric, or Winston Air 2.

Reels: Pair your rods with appropriate reels, such as Hatch 4+ for the 4 & 5-weights and Nautilus XL for the 7-weight rod and spare spools with floating and intermediate sink lines.

Lines: Scientific Angler MPX is a recommended choice for 4 and 5-weight lines, offering versatility and ease of use in windy conditions. Wolf Triangle Taper lines are also a great option. For the 7-weight we recommend, SA Sonar Titan Int - 3 - 5.

Clothing and Accessories

Waders: No waders only wading boots with a built-in gaiter

Accessories: Pack a few hats, visors, buffs, and sun gloves to protect yourself from the sun and elements.

Belts: Opt for a quick-drying nylon belt for added convenience.

Spare Boot Laces: Yakoda Extra boot laces in various lengths can come in handy in case of emergencies.

Rising Net: Consider a collapsible net like the Rising Net, which fits inside your bag.

Clothing: Skwala sun hoodies, wading pants, fishing shirts, and rain jackets for varying weather conditions.

Bonus Items: Yeti Cups, two pairs of Bajio Sunglasses