Fishing & Island Tours with Hooked On Montana in Somers - Kalispell

Fishing & Island Tours with Hooked On Montana in Somers

Kalispelleasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2–8 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for all skill and fitness levels; passengers remain mostly seated during boat trips.

Overview

Experience premier lake trout fishing and Wild Horse Island wildlife tours on Montana’s Flathead Lake with Hooked On Montana. Whether you book a half-day charter or a full day on the water, expert guides deliver a hands-on, unforgettable experience.

Details

Flathead Lake, located just outside the small town of Somers, Montana, offers one of the Pacific Northwest’s premier freshwater fishing destinations, and Hooked On Montana places you right at the heart of it all. Known for its clear waters and abundant lake trout, Flathead Lake’s vast expanse stretches 28 miles long and 15 miles wide, creating a unique playground for anglers and nature enthusiasts alike. Hooked On Montana specializes in guided fishing trips and Wild Horse Island tours that combine technical know-how with local insight, promising a catch-and-connection you won’t find anywhere else in the region.

Owner and guide Clay is praised repeatedly for his genuine care, extensive knowledge, and keen ability to place anglers exactly where fish are feeding. Whether you’re a family looking for a half-day fishing excursion to land lake trout or a group eager for a full-day challenge targeting Flathead’s biggest catches, these trips offer a practical yet deeply rewarding outdoor experience. Clay’s passion shines through not only in his skill with the fishing rod but in how he engages visitors of all ages—especially kids—to make every outing memorable and productive.

The Wild Horse Island wildlife tours showcase a different side of the lake’s ecosystem. This state park island hosts a protected herd of wild horses alongside elk, bighorn sheep, and bald eagles, making it a remarkable spot for bird watchers and wildlife photographers. Comfortable pontoon boat rentals offer another way to navigate the lake’s coves and shorelines at your own pace, blending adventure with flexibility.

Hooked On Montana’s guided trips offer more than just fishing; they provide a deep connection to Montana’s rugged waterscape, mixing specialized skills with rich natural history. Their reputation as the top guide service in the Flathead region means guests leave not only with fish on the stringer but with stories of a day well spent on one of America’s most beautiful inland lakes.

Adventure Tips

Bring Weather-Appropriate Clothing

Montana’s weather can shift quickly, so layering is key for comfort during morning and evening trips.

Arrive Early to Maximize Fishing Time

Most charters leave at first light or late afternoon; arriving early helps with a smooth check-in and gear setup.

Use Sun Protection

The reflective surface of Flathead Lake intensifies UV rays—wear sunscreen, hats, and polarized sunglasses.

Listen to Your Guide’s Expertise

Clay and his team know the lake’s hotspots and how fish behave—following their advice greatly boosts your catch rate.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Remote coves on Flathead Lake perfect for birdwatching and quiet reflection
  • Less-crowded shoreline areas around Somers offering unexpected wildlife encounters

Wildlife

  • Wild horses on Wild Horse Island
  • Bald eagles soaring above the lake

History

Wild Horse Island is Montana’s largest island state park, preserving native horse herds and native ecosystems since being established in the 1970s.

Conservation

Hooked On Montana promotes catch-and-release practices and follows local fishing regulations to protect fish populations and lake health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour at dawn
Late afternoon twilight
Clear midday skies for wildlife shots

Best Viewpoints

  • Bow of the pontoon boat
  • Wild Horse Island shoreline
  • Flathead Lake’s open water expanses

What to Photograph

Lake trout jumps
Wild horses on island
Expansive water reflections

Recommended Gear

Layered Clothing

Essential

Helps you adjust body temperature as lake conditions change throughout the day.

spring|summer|fall|winter specific

Polarized Sunglasses

Essential

Reduce glare off the water for better visibility and eye protection.

summer|spring|fall specific

Fishing License

Essential

Required to legally fish in Montana waters; confirm regulations before your trip.

Sun Protection

Essential

Sunscreen and a wide-brim hat prevent sunburn during long exposure on open water.

summer|spring|fall specific