🐟 Proud to be the Orvis 2026 Outfitter of the Year LEARN MORE 🐟
Two anglers fly fish while standing in a drift boat as a guide rows on a river, with grassy hills in the background.

Montana Fly Fishing Float Trips

The Tackle Shop Fly Shop and Fishing Guides in Ennis, Montana

Anglers in drift boats fly fishing on a river, with mountain peaks and grassy plains in the background.

Experience Montana Fly Fishing from the Perfect Vantage Point

There’s nothing quite like drifting down Montana’s legendary waters, fly rod in hand, with an expert guide navigating you to the perfect spots. Our float trips are designed for anglers of all skill levels—from first-timers to seasoned pros—who want to maximize their time on the water and access stretches of river impossible to reach on foot.

Full Day: $700 for 1-2 anglers | 8-10 hours on the water
Half Day: $600 for 1-2 anglers | 4-5 hours on the water

The Float Trip Experience 

Two clear plastic tackle boxes filled with fishing flies sit in a boat's storage compartment, with a small bottle nearby.
Two anglers seated in a drift boat on a river tie fishing flies while a tackle box sits open between them.
Three people fly fishing from a drift boat on a river, with a man holding a small caught fish over a landing net.
People picnicking at a folding table beside a wide river, with grassy hills and mountains in the background.
Everything You Need

Top-quality Orvis fly rods, reels and all essential gear are provided, or feel free to bring your own trusted equipment for maximum comfort on the water.

Perfect for All Skill Levels

Our patient guides offer casting lessons and thorough safety briefings at the boat launch, ensuring even first-time anglers quickly develop confidence and success.

Strategic River Experience

Your guide will make multiple stops throughout the day at prime fishing locations, reading the water and following hatches to maximize your opportunities.

Riverside Refreshments

Enjoy complimentary snacks and beverages on all trips, with full-day floats including a delicious streamside lunch prepared by your guide in a scenic setting.

Book Full Day Trip

$700 for 1-2 anglers | 8-10 hours on the water

Includes: All fishing gear (or bring your own), expert guide service, streamside lunch, snacks and drinks

Book Now

Book Half Day Trip

$600 for 1-2 anglers | 4-5 hours on the water

Includes: All fishing gear (or bring your own), expert guide service, snacks and drinks

Book Now
Smiling man in sunglasses and a cap holding a spotted brown trout beside a riverbank with green shrubs.

We’ll Be Back

We are a mid-sixties couple who went on a half-day trip with guide James Terry last week. We don’t usually hire guides, partially because I was a professional whitewater guide for many years. James was gracious, professional and was able to quickly meet us where we’re at with our fishing skills. We learned a lot and caught a bunch of fish. Our expectations were exceeded and we highly recommend James. We’ll be back for another…

Waters We Fish

Loading map…
Learn More

What to Expect On Your Trip

Before You Arrive

  • We’ll discuss your experience level and preferences when you book
  • We’ll recommend the best river section based on current conditions
  • Secure your Montana fishing license online or at our shop

Trip Day Experience

  1. Meet at The Tackle Shop in Ennis (127 Main Street) where you’ll gear up and meet your guide
  2. Quick casting lesson at the boat launch to shake off the rust or learn the basics
  3. Safety briefing covering boat protocols and river navigation
  4. On-water instruction tailored to your skill level throughout the day
  5. Multiple fishing spots as your guide reads the water and follows the hatches
  6. Delicious streamside lunch (full-day trips) in a scenic location
  7. Photography opportunities to capture your catches and the stunning landscape

What’s Included

  • Top-quality Orvis fly rods and reels
  • All necessary terminal tackle (leaders, tippet, flies)
  • Waders and boots if needed
  • Streamside lunch (full-day trips)
  • Snacks and non-alcoholic beverages
  • Expert guidance and instruction

What’s Not Included

  • Montana fishing license (available at our shop)
  • Alcoholic beverages (you’re welcome to bring your own)
  • Gratuity for your guide (15-20% is customary for exceptional service)

Gear Up for Your Trip

Gear Up for Your Trip

Latest Posts From River

Metal silhouette sign reading

What the Weather is Like in March and April in Ennis, MT

March: Still Winter… But the River Starts Waking Up March in Ennis is usually a mix of cold mornings and slightly longer afternoons. Average highs are generally in the low 40s, with lows down near the t…

Read More >
Two anglers in waders fly fishing on a calm river, one holding a bent rod overhead while the other nets a catch.

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 experi…

Read More >
Two bull moose with large antlers standing near a log-strewn riverbank in tall grass during light rain.

Beyond the Fly: Wildlife Encounters Along the Madison River

The Madison is More than Just a Fly Fishing River Embarking on a fly fishing adventure along the Madison River  isn’t just about hooking  trout—it’s also an opportunity to immerse …

Read More >
Rippling shallow stream water over rocks and golden fallen leaves, creating light-refracted patterns on the streambed.

Cabin Fever Cure-April Fly Fishing on the Big Hole River

Many anglers overlook the fantastic fishing opportunities available before summer even begins. With Montana’s tourist season yet to kick off, the rivers remain quieter, making spring an ideal time for t…

Read More >

Frequently Asked Questions

Vaulted living room with exposed wood beams, floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking snowy mountains, a brown sectional sofa, and a

Montana Way Property Management

Are you looking for a place to stay during your Ennis, Montana fly fishing adventure? Check out our favorite rentals below and let Montana Way take care of all your accommodation needs.

View All Montana Vacation Rentals
Two anglers fly fishing from a drift boat on a river, casting toward grassy banks below rolling hills, while a guide rows.

Overnight Vacation Packages

Turn your float trip into a complete Montana vacation with our all-inclusive packages that combine multiple days of guided fishing with comfortable lodging. Our Montana Way Property Management offers beautiful riverside accommodations perfect for anglers.

View Packages

Frequently Asked Questions