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The Evolution of the Bobber: A Fly-Fishing History from Cork to OROS
Fly fishing has always been a sport rooted in tradition but like the rivers we fish, it’s constantly flowing forward. One of the most fascinating evolutions in fly fishing is the strike indicator or the bobber. At least that’s what we refer to them as here at The Tackle Shop. Here at The Tackle Shop in Ennis, Montana, we’ve seen just about every version of these small but essential tools come and go over the last 84 years. Today, we’re diving into the interesting history of st...
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Why a Vacation Rental on Your Madison River Montana Trip is a Great Idea
If you’ve ever planned a trip to the Madison River for fly fishing, you already know part of what makes this place special: big skies, cold clear water, elk on the hillsides, and trout that make you smile even when the weather doesn’t cooperate. But one part of the trip that too many people rush through is where you stay. Whether you’re coming with friends, family, a group of anglers, or just flying solo for some quiet time on the water, choosing the right place to stay can make you...
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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 teens. Snow is still common, and you’ll see your share of windy days. That said — even on the colder days — the river starts to shift. Daylight increases, the sun gets higher, and the fish begin sliding into spring patterns. April: Transition Month April is where things ...
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Top 5 Fly Fishing Tips from Tackle Shop Guides for Success on the Madison River
If you’re dreaming of a day spent casting on the legendary Madison River, you’re not alone. Anglers from around the globe travel to Ennis, Montana to experience some of the best fly fishing anywhere. Whether you’re brand new to the sport or a seasoned fisherman looking to sharpen your skills, a little local advice goes a long way. At The Tackle Shop in Ennis, our guides have been fishing the Madison for decades—rain, shine, snow, or third winter (yes, it’s a thing here). Tod...
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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 those seeking solitude. If you don’t mind temperatures ranging from 45-60 degrees, early-season fishing might be perfect for you. The Pre-Runoff Advantage From April to mid-May, the Big Hole River runs low with minimal fishing pressure and trout are eager to strike anything bigger than a mid...
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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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Gear Up and Get Outdoors: What to Pack for Your Ennis Fly Fishing Adventure
Are you ready to immerse yourself in the unparalleled beauty and serenity of Ennis, Montana, while experiencing world-class fly fishing on the iconic Madison River ? As you prepare for your guided fly fishing excursion with The Tackle Shop, ensuring you have the right gear is essential for a successful and enjoyable day on the water. In this comprehensive packing guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to pack for your Ennis fly fishing adventure. Clothing Essentials: Layere...
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Check Your FLY Line While There’s Still Time
Check Your FLY Line While There’s Still Time By Guide James “Jimbob” Terry Here at The Tackle Shop, we like our dry flies. A quick scan of our fly bins will show you where our hearts are. Luckily here In Southwest Montana, we have seemingly endless dry fly-fishing opportunities and hatches with the options getting vaster as we steam into summer. We’ve already had some great sessions down on the lower river fishing the Mother’s Day Caddis hatch, with a variety of mayflies and baetis...
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Mastering the Art of Matching the Hatch: Mother’s Day Caddis Edition
The Mothers Day Caddis Might Just be the Madison Best Hatch As the days grow longer and the temperatures begin to rise, fly fishermen eagerly anticipate the arrival of spring and the emergence of one of nature's most captivating events: the Mother's Day Caddis hatch on the Madison River. For anglers seeking to capitalize on this seasonal bounty, mastering the art of matching the hatch is paramount. In this guide, we'll delve into the significance of matching the hatch during the Mother's ...
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Float vs. Wade for your First Trip to Montana
Float vs Wade for your first trip to Montana. Well, you have done it decided to book your first trip to Montana. You have read stories for years about fabled waters, large wild fish and endless adventure. You have decided on a river and an outfitter now you need to decide if floating or wade fishing right for you. We have this conversation with guests all the time in the store. Many are undecided on what form of fishing is best for them. While each has...
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