The Madison River is one of the most renowned fly fishing rivers in the world and fly fishermen have been coming here for generations to enjoy the magic of catching a Madison River rainbow or brown trout. The Tackle Shop Outfitting and Guide Services specialize in float fishing the Madison River and making your time with us a lifetime memory.
The Madison River is our home and our guides are simply the best. In addition we offer guided fly fishing trips to area rivers and streams and this year have added an exciting option of sampling some of western Montana's fine waters, with our "Montana Sampler" fishing package.
Guided Float and Wade Trips
We specialize in guided float and wade trips on the Madison River, Ennis Lake and other area rivers and lakes. You may want to consider a fishing trip down the Bear Trap Canyon and mix a little white water rafting with great fly fishing or a day on the Beaverhead River, Big Hole River, Ruby River, or Jefferson River all from our shop.
Your day starts as you meet your guide at the shop. Preparation will be more than just confirming you have the correct tackle. We will define your goals for that day and what we can do to make the most of your fishing adventure. After your time in the shop, you will journey to your fishing destination and embark upon an exciting day of fly fishing. Provided in your trip will be transportation, lunch, and drinks. Half day guided float and wade trips do not include lunch. Fly fishing tackle, flies, fishing license, and personal items are not included but are available to purchase at the shop. Please see our list of suggested items to make your day more enjoyable.
The Bear Trap Canyon
Ed Maynard was one of the first to outfit on the Madison River alongside Elwood Combs and Ben Sheffield. Ed and his wife, Dorthy, owned and operated The Channels Resort on the shores of Ennis Lake and Ed is credited as the pioneer of float fishing the Bear Trap Canyon. Just imagine what those first trips through the white water sections of the canyon were like given the equipment of the time. Today the Bear Trap Express, the sole operator of commercial fishing through the Bear Trap Canyon, is owned and operated by Ed's grandson J.T. France. J.T. took over the business from his father, Johnny France, making him the third generation to guide in the Bear Trap Canyon. It is hard to describe the solitude and fishing of the Bear Trap, but it is certainly something everyone should do at least once.
Launches are restricted and the floats book early! Call if you have any questions.
The Montana Sampler
Sometimes it's just fun to see new water and meet new fish. Montana is such a big state and there is just so much water to fish it can be a little intimidating. The Montana Sampler makes it easy.
You will be on a hosted fly fishing trip and will spend your time fly fishing new and exciting water under the direction of your fly fishing host / instructor. You will experience guided float fishing as well as wade fishing during your time on the water. You can choose between a 3 or 5 day Montana Sampler package. The 3 day consists of 2 days wade fishing and 1 day float fishing. The 5 day package consists of 3 days wade fishing and 2 days float fishing. Included are guides, transportation, lunch, and drinks. Fly fishing tackle, flies, fishing license, and personal items are not included but are available for purchase at the shop. Contact Us to set up your own Montana Sampler!
