Welcome to the enchanting waters of the Bitterroot River, the crown jewel of western Montana's fly fishing scene. At Latitudes Outfitting, the Bitterroot is not just a river; it's our home base, where we spend more days guiding anglers than anywhere else due to its unparalleled diversity and consistent yields. Whether you are a novice looking to wet your first fly or an experienced angler seeking your next big catch, the Bitterroot River offers a fly fishing experience that you'll cherish for a lifetime.
Flowing majestically through the scenic landscapes of Montana, the Bitterroot River is known for its clear, cold waters and vibrant ecosystems. This river features everything from fast-moving channels in the upper reaches to more placid, deep pools in the middle and lower sections. Surrounded by a mix of lush forested areas and open meadows, the river's environment is as inviting as it is diverse, providing perfect habitats for various trout species.
Anglers at the Bitterroot River are primarily greeted by cutthroat, rainbow, and brown trout, thriving amid the river's dynamic conditions. Renowned for one of the longest dry fly fishing seasons in North America, the river boasts up to seven months of rising trout and prolific hatches. The best months to visit for dry fly enthusiasts are March, April, June, July, August, September, and October, when the river comes alive with surface-feeding action.
The Bitterroot River offers a varied fishing experience, with opportunities to use big attractor dry flies in the upper sections or skillfully target pods of rising browns and rainbows in the middle and lower stretches. Due to its clarity and the wary nature of its trout, successful fishing here often requires precise casts and stealthy approaches, particularly in the clearer waters of late summer and early fall.
For the ultimate dry fly fishing experience, we recommend gearing up with a 9-foot, 5-weight fly rod for its versatility and ease of handling. A selection of local fly patterns, including stoneflies, mayflies, and caddisflies, is essential to match the Bitterroot's abundant hatches. Additionally, a pair of polarized sunglasses will not only protect your eyes but also aid in spotting fish in the water.
Latitudes Outfitting is deeply rooted in the Bitterroot Valley, and our guides possess an intimate understanding of its seasonal patterns and best fishing spots. Join one of our "Bitterroot River fishing tours" to leverage our local knowledge and refine your dry fly fishing techniques. Our guides are passionate about helping both new and returning clients discover why the Bitterroot is often referred to as a dry fly fisherman’s paradise.
Fly fishing in the Bitterroot River is more than just a pastime; it's a way to connect with nature and pursue one of angling's most revered practices. The river's extensive dry fly season and the expert guidance from Latitudes Outfitting ensure that every trip is as rewarding as it is memorable. Come and cast your line in the pristine waters of the Bitterroot River during the "best time to fish Bitterroot River" and experience the magic that keeps anglers returning year after year. Book your adventure today and step into the flowing waters of a fly fishing paradise.
Our full day guided fishing/float trip includes
Local Waters: Bitterroot River, including the West and East Fork (depending on time of year), Blackfoot and Clark Fork River.
Full day trips are generally 6 to 8 hours of guided fishing from a drift boat/fishing raft by a professional and licensed guide.
Trip includes: all flies, leaders, rods (if necessary), transportation to/from designated meeting location, non-alcoholic beverages, an expert guide, and streamside lunch.
Our partial day guided fishing/float trip includes
Local Waters: Bitterroot River, including the West and East Fork (depending on time of year), Blackfoot and Clark Fork River.
Partial day trips are generally 4 to 5 hours of guided fishing from a drift boat/fishing raft by a professional and licensed guide.
AM and PM partial day options are available, depending on the time of year and guide availability.
Trip includes: all flies, leaders, rods (if necessary), transportation to/from designated meeting location, non-alcoholic beverages, and an expert guide.
Our full day guided fishing/float trip on the Missouri River (Craig, MT) includes
Full day trips are generally 6 to 8 hours of guided fishing from a drift boat/fishing raft by a professional and licensed guide.
Trip includes: all flies, leaders, rods (if necessary), transportation to/from designated meeting location, non-alcoholic beverages, an expert guide, and streamside lunch.
Our full day guided fishing/float trip on Rock Creek includes
Full day trips are generally 6 to 8 hours of guided fishing from a drift boat/fishing raft by a professional and licensed guide.
Trip includes: all flies, leaders, rods (if necessary), transportation to/from designated meeting location, non-alcoholic beverages, an expert guide, and streamside lunch.
Our full day guided walk/wade trip includes
Local Waters: Bitterroot River, including the West and East Fork (depending on time of year), Blackfoot and Clark Fork River.
Full day trips are generally 6 to 8 hours of guided fishing by a professional and licensed guide.
Trip includes: all flies, leaders, rods (if necessary), transportation to/from designated meeting location, non-alcoholic beverages, an expert guide, and streamside lunch.
Our full day scenic float trip includes
Local Waters: Bitterroot River, including the West and East Fork (depending on time of year), Blackfoot and Clark Fork River.
Full day trips are generally 6 to 8 hours of floating from a drift boat/fishing raft by a professional and licensed guide.
Trip includes: transportation to/from designated meeting location, non-alcoholic beverages, an expert guide, and streamside lunch.
Our partial day scenic float trip includes
Local Waters: Bitterroot River, including the West and East Fork (depending on time of year), Blackfoot and Clark Fork River.
Partial day trips are generally 4 to 5 hours of floating from a drift boat/fishing raft by a professional and licensed guide.
AM and PM Partial Day options are available, depending on the time of year and guide availability.
Trip includes: transportation to/from designated meeting location, non-alcoholic beverages, and an expert guide.
Our casting lessons are a great way to learn the ropes before a day on the river! Our lessons are booked by the hour. With one casting instructor/guide, we can accommodate groups of up to 6 people.
With groups of 7 or more, we strongly recommend hiring another guide or booking multiple "sessions" to ensure quality instruction and attention.
Our guide will provide all of the necessary equipment and materials for the lesson however, feel free to bring your own rod/reel to practice with. For scheduling, our office will work with you to set the best time based on your group's needs and guide availability.
Robert Gary, Owner/Outfitter #7970
PO Box 1281
Hamilton, MT 59840
Operating on United States Forest Service - Special Use Permits
