Movie Worthy Scenery, Big Hatches, and Timeless Montana Beauty
The Blackfoot River is a true gem of western Montana — offering crystal-clear flows, deep emerald pools, and endless opportunities for dry fly fishing. This iconic river, immortalized in A River Runs Through It, is as rich in scenery as it is in trout.
With thousands of trout per mile, classic freestone structure, and legendary summer hatches, the Blackfoot delivers an unforgettable Montana fly fishing adventure for anglers of all levels.
Whether you’re chasing native Westslope Cutthroat Trout, battling big Rainbows, or hoping for a glimpse of a giant Bull Trout, the Blackfoot rewards those who seek wild fish in wild places.
Why Fish the Blackfoot River?
The Blackfoot River starts high in the Bob Marshall Wilderness and tumbles southwest for 75 miles of dramatic canyon walls, glacial-carved valleys, and pine-lined banks. It’s a river built for anglers — fast riffles, long runs, and deep pools that hide strong, wild trout.
The Blackfoot is a stronghold for native trout. You’ll find thriving populations of Cutthroat, Rainbow, and Brown Trout — and if you’re lucky, an encounter with a massive, elusive Bull Trout.
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Prime Dry Fly Fishing: Salmonflies, Golden Stones, PMDs, Spruce Moths, and more
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True Montana Scenery: Towering cliffs, crystal-clear water, and endless blue skies
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Unforgettable Floats: Drift past stunning landscapes while casting to wild trout
Full Day Guided Trip
Enjoy a full-day, 8-hour guided float trip on the Blackfoot River.
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Perfect for beginners and experienced anglers alike.
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Float through some of Montana’s most beautiful scenery.
$675 — price for 1–2 anglers
Group rates available — contact us for details.
Half Day Guided Trip
Enjoy a 4-hour guided float trip on the Blackfoot River.
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Fish prime water during hatches or cooler parts of the day.
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Perfect for those with limited time or new to fly fishing.
$500 — price for 1–2 anglers
Group rates available — contact us for details.
Why Book With Us?
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15+ years guiding the Blackfoot, Bitterroot, Clark Fork, and Missouri Rivers
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Licensed Montana Fishing Outfitter
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All gear, flies, and tackle included — just bring yourself
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Customized trips for beginners, experts, and everyone in between
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Focused on making each trip fun, productive, and memorable
When you book with us, you’re getting more than just a fishing trip — you’re getting insider access to one of Montana’s finest trout rivers.
What to Expect on Your Trip
Our Blackfoot River fly fishing trips are tailored to maximize your time on the water and match the river’s daily conditions.
You’ll float through prime sections between Lincoln and Bonner, chasing trout with dry flies, nymphs, or streamers depending on the season.
Whether you’re a first-timer or seasoned angler, your guide will coach you when needed and step back when you’re locked into the rhythm of the river.
What’s Included:
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Full-day or half-day guided float trip
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Licensed, experienced Montana fly fishing guide
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Rods, reels, flies, and terminal tackle (or bring your own favorites)
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Transportation between meeting location and river put-ins
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Cooler with water, sodas, and light snacks
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Streamside lunch available upon request
What You’ll Need for Your Trip
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Montana Fishing License (Required for anyone 12 and older) [Purchase Your MT License Here ➔] https://ols.fwp.mt.gov/
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Guide Gratuity (Cash preferred, tipping is appreciated)
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Appropriate Clothing (Layers recommended — Montana weather changes fast!)
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Sunglasses and Hat (Polarized sunglasses strongly recommended)
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Beverages and Snacks (We provide water, but feel free to bring extras)
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Good Attitude (Let’s make it a great day on the water!)
Best Time to Fish the Blackfoot River
June – July: Big Bugs and Big Trout
The Blackfoot comes alive in early summer. Massive Salmonflies and Golden Stoneflies hatch across the river, bringing the largest trout of the season to the surface. Expect exciting dry fly eats and heavy, wild fish.
Green Drakes and early Caddis hatches round out the buffet. This is big dry fly season at its best.
August: Hoppers, Ants, and Spruce Moths
Warm summer days bring hopper season to the Blackfoot. Grasshoppers, beetles, and ants keep the trout looking up. Some years, a Spruce Moth hatch triggers explosive dry fly fishing — a unique and addicting event.
Low, clear flows make for epic sight fishing, thrilling eats, and plenty of topwater action.
September – October: Fall Magic
Cooler nights ignite Blue-Winged Olive hatches and October Caddis swarms. Big trout feed aggressively before winter, and streamer fishing becomes a top tactic. Fall colors and crisp mornings create a magical atmosphere on the river.
Ready to Fish Montana’s Legendary Blackfoot River?
Dates fill fast during prime season.
Frequently Asked Questions
Guide gratuities are standard practice left to the discretion of the client. Guides typically average 20% ($150+/day) per guide for a full day trip. Our guides will work hard for you and appreciate your gratuity in return.
Our fishing trips are suitable for both beginners and experienced anglers, and our guides can provide assistance and tips to help you improve your fishing skills.
Yes, all Buglife guided trips practice catch and release fishing.
Montana – Craig is conveniently located less than 40 minutes from the Great Falls International Airport AND less than 40 minutes from the Helena Regional Airport.
There is also something to see and do in Big Sky Country! With 2 state parks less than 20 minutes away, you have access to hiking trails at Tower Rock State Park and First People’s Buffalo Jump State Park. A short 45-minute drive will take you to Helena, MT where you can find lots of local shops as well as Broadwater Hot Springs.