How to Prepare for Your Guided Fly Fishing Excursion in Montana
You’ve got your license, your rod and reel and your sunglasses, so you’re ready to enjoy your first guided fly fishing excursion in Montana, right? Well, almost right! If you want to turn it into a smashing success, you need to cross a few more things off your list.
Helpful Hints for Guided Fly Fishing Excursion in Montana
Don’t worry, you won’t have to spend ages preparing for this. After all, it’s supposed to be relaxing, isn’t it? Plus, your guide will be there to help you at every step. But there are a few things you can do to make sure you get the most out of this unique experience.
Practice Your Cast
Casting is not just about throwing your line and hoping that you will catch the fish. Casting is a science; you must maintain a proper balance and cast in the right direction.
If you don’t know how to cast, you’ll spend your day working on your casting. This may frustrate you and even make you leave fly fishing. No one is expecting you to be an expert caster. But learning the basics will help you enjoy the day more.
Dress for the Occasion and Carry Protective Gear
Montana weather can be unpredictable; it can either be rainy, too cold, or too hot. It can be all these in a single day, so you need to prepare for every type of weather.
Carry sunscreen and polarized sunglasses on your trip, irrespective of the season your excursion takes place in. There’s nothing worse than having your vision impaired by the sunlight that reflects on the water surface. The sunglasses also provide eye protection from an errant fly.
Prepare for a rainy day by carrying a good rain jacket, and if necessary rain pants. Even in the heat of summer, a thunderstorm and drop in temperature can ruin your day. On cool and rainy days, it’s likely best to start out wearing waders. It’s much easier to start out and stay warm and dry than it is to get warm and dry after getting soaked. Follow your guide’s advice. Your guide may have spares, but it’s always safer to bring your own.
Communicate with Your Guide
Before the trip, talk openly with your guide. Give them information about your experience; this will help them be prepared in meeting your needs.
You need to share your expectations, preferences and limitations with them. When a guide takes you on the stream, they should have an idea of whether you are experienced, intermediate or a veteran fly fisher. There’s no point in exaggerating your skill level – your guide will learn the truth soon enough. Also, make sure to let them know if you are suffering from any chronic ailments. Being open and honest is the best policy for any guided fly fishing excursion in Montana.
Inquire About the Tipping Policy
Tipping is an excellent gesture of showing appreciation to the guides. Even if they’re paid, guides take their time to be with you in the middle of nowhere and patiently assist you and show you new techniques throughout the excursion.
Don’t worry; you won’t have to tip a fortune. 15- 20% of the value of the excursion is customary. If you want to be sure you won’t tip too much or too little, take a look at local fly fishing forums or traveling sites. They are excellent starting points!
Enjoy Your Guided Fly Fishing Excursion in Montana
Last, but not least, remember that it’s all about relaxation and enjoyment. Don’t sweat it if you can’t master the techniques from the get-go. Be patient with yourself – a skilled angler isn’t born in a day!
We also think that fishing is more fun when we all work together. If one of your traveling mates has more difficulties in casting or tying flies, try to help them! You’ll be the best team on the stream if you stick together!
If you’re looking for an unforgettable guided fly fishing excursion in Montana, take a look at our packages. Our experienced guides are there to make sure that you’re embarking on the adventure of a lifetime!
