Overview
The act of fishing with a rod, reel, fly line and a fly, is best experienced in Montana. Novice anglers to the most experienced will enjoy exploring the abundant fly-fishing opportunities in and around Livingston, MT. This area is located just north of Yellowstone National Park and near many famous Montana fly fishing rivers in Paradise Valley. Considered a Mecca of fly-fishing by anglers from all over the world, there are nearly a dozen world-class trout fisheries within a few miles.

Where to go fly-fishing
A few well-known waterways around Livingston include:

• DePuys, O’Hair/Armstrong’s and Nelson’s Spring Creeks
• The Boulder River (east and south of Big Timber, MT)
• The Shields River (north of Livingston)
• Numerous lakes including Len’s, Story and Chase (south of town)
• The Gardner River, Slough Creek & Lamar River (out of Tower Junction inside Yellowstone Park)

Rentals & Fees
Before you begin your great Livingston Montana fly-fishing adventure; you will first need to obtain a Fishing License. If you are planning to hire a guide, consult with them about the necessary requirements, before casting your line into the water. If you plan on “going it alone” we suggest that you contact the local Montana Game and Fish Office or any of the local fly-fishing shops.

The rates and fees for a guided fly-fishing tour vary according to length of the trip, number of anglers, the season and whether or not the tour is going to be wade only or wade/float combination. One angler can plan to pay approximately $400 - $500 for a full day wade/float trip.

Hire a Guide
If you would like to visit the Livingston area and fish these great waters we strongly recommend that you hire a guide for at least part of your time here. You'll learn the water and tactics to fish it effectively in much less time than it would take on your own.

Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned angler, you can always learn something from a guide who spends nearly 100 days per year on the water. Fly-fishing guides are in high demand and all are expert fly anglers, with extensive experience fishing the surrounding waters. They are great teachers with enjoyable personalities. Their goal is to help you enjoy your time on the water.

Safety Precautions

• Always wear a wading belt with waist or chest waders.
• In fast or unfamiliar water, always carry a wading staff.
• Wear wading shoes or boot-foot waders with soles that grip.
• Always dress for the worst weather you might chance upon.
• Make sure to load up on sunscreen and bug spray.
• Wear polarized fishing glasses and a hat.
• Stock up on liquids and food.