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Madison River

Spring Fishing is Coming—Time to Check Your Waders!

As the snow starts to melt and the rivers start calling, it’s that time of year when every fly fisherman starts thinking about the season ahead. The Madison River is calling, the Missouri River is prime for adventure, and spring fishing is just around the corner. But before you get your gear out and head to the water, there’s one important task you should tackle first: checking your waders. Nothing ruins a great day of fishing like getting wet, and there's no worse feeling than discov...

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A Day in the Life of a Guided Fly Fishing Trip with The Tackle Shop

When you book a guided fly fishing trip with The Tackle Shop in Ennis, Montana, you’re signing up for much more than just a day on the water. You’re committing to a comprehensive, unforgettable experience with expert guides who have decades of knowledge about the rivers and the best techniques for catching trophy trout. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced angler, we ensure that your day will be both rewarding and relaxing. Early Morning Start: Gear Up and Head Out ...

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The Tackle Shop - Store inside

The Fly Guy

Overview Of My Job My Main Job here at The Tackle Shop is Flies, from doing some of the ordering of the flies, to getting them checked in and put out on the floor, labeling the flies correctly by name and size of the pattern and making sure all our patterns are organized here, or simply just putting them in the right backstock section. And the best part of all at the end of the season around November, COUNTING ALL THE FLIES IN THE SHOP. I am constantly working on organizing the flies here...

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Cheeky Burst Fly Reel Review: The Game-Changer in Affordability and Durable Performance

Hey there, fellow anglers! Riley Smith here, manager of the Tackle Shop and your go-to guide for everything fishing here in Ennis, Montana. Today, I’m thrilled to talk about one of the new standout pieces of gear we recently just got in the shop: the New Cheeky Burst Fly Reel. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting into fly fishing, this reel is a must see.  What Makes the Cheeky Burst Fly Reel Stand Out? At the Tackle Shop, we’re always on the lookout for top-quality...

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Spring Into Adventure: Top Things to Do in Madison Valley from March to June

Discover the Beauty of Madison Valley in Spring Springtime in Madison Valley is a true treasure, offering stunning views, a variety of outdoor activities, and a prime opportunity to experience the unspoiled charm of Montana’s wilderness. Whether you're an adventure seeker or someone craving a quiet escape, the Madison Valley from March to June is the perfect spot for your next getaway. With abundant sunshine, vibrant wildflower displays, and the Madison River in top fishing condition, it's ...

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Exploring the Madison: Contrasting the Lower Madison vs. Upper Madison

By. Shop Manager Riley Smith   Introduction- Nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of Montana lies the legendary Madison River, a must river for fly fishing anglers seeking adventure and beauty. As you prepare to embark on your angling journey, you're faced with a difficult decision: Should you cast your line into the waters of the Lower Madison, which is Madison water located below Ennis Lake, or tackle the 55-mile-long riffle of the Upper Madison which is any Madison water l...

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What to Bring When Fly Fishing the Madison River in the Winter Months

  By. Kade Klubertanz, Shop Employee  Fly fishing on the Madison River in January is a unique and rewarding experience, but it requires special preparation. The cold, often harsh conditions can make a great day on the water a little more challenging, but with the right gear and mindset, it can also be incredibly rewarding. The Madison River, located in Montana, is known for its big trout and beautiful surroundings, but fishing in the winter months brings a different set of consid...

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grundens

Review of the Grunden’s Vector Wader

By Riley Smith, Manager of The Tackle Shop, Ennis Montana  If you're serious about your fishing gear, then you know how important it is to have a reliable pair of waders. After spending years working with all kinds of fishing equipment here at The Tackle Shop in Ennis, Montana, I can say with confidence that the Grundéns Vector Wader stands out as one of the best options on the market for serious anglers. As the manager of this shop and someone who’s been an angler for fourteen ye...

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Family-Friendly Fly Fishing: Enjoying August Adventures with Kids in Southwest Montana

  August is a fantastic time for families to explore the great outdoors in Southwest Montana, and there's no better way to do that than by introducing your kids to the joys of fly fishing. At The Tackle Shop, we believe that fly fishing can be an incredibly rewarding experience for the whole family. From the thrill of catching a trout to the serene beauty of the Madison River, your family adventure starts here. Why Fly Fishing is Perfect for Families: Fly fishing is more than just...

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Techniques For Success On The Eve Of The Salmonfly Hatch

“The Before Party” By: James “Jimbob” Terry As we enter the second half of June here in Ennis, Montana; we prepare for invasion. They will be here soon. They can’t be stopped. They are known for choosing favorable weather to invade. They will cover land, air, and sea in overwhelming numbers… Lucky for us, it is June of 2024 not 1944 and “They” are Salmon flies baby!  “Pteronarcys California”, “Giant Salmonfly”, “The Big Bugs”… whatever you like to call them, ...

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