Fly Fishing Yellowstone with Angler’s West Fly Fishing Outfitters - Bozeman, MT

Fly Fishing Yellowstone with Angler’s West Fly Fishing Outfitters

Bozeman, MTmoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

4–8 hours

Fitness Level

Participants should have basic stamina for standing and casting on a drift boat or wading in cold water.

Overview

Angler’s West Fly Fishing Outfitters delivers expertly guided trips on Montana's famed Yellowstone River, perfect for novices and pros seeking rich trout waters and memorable days on the water.

Details

Angler’s West Fly Fishing Outfitters offers an authentic gateway to Montana’s Yellowstone River, a stretch revered for its prolific trout waters and rugged Western landscape. Located in Emigrant, just west of Yellowstone National Park, the outfitter specializes in guided drift boat trips, day floats, and instructional outings on one of America’s most iconic rivers. The Yellowstone River’s clear flows slice through volcanic formations and pine-covered cliffs, creating diverse habitats where native species like cutthroat trout thrive.

What sets Angler’s West apart is their combination of expert local knowledge and genuine hospitality. Their guides, including Kevin, Kenny, Dan, and Ty, bring decades of combined experience and patient teaching skills to the water, making the outfitter an ideal choice for beginners and seasoned anglers alike. Their capacity to consistently put anglers on fish while providing seamless, customized service earns glowing praise—like John Kowalski’s son’s first fly fishing trip and Jessica Addis’s 40-plus catch day. Whether casting for Yellowstone cutthroat or rainbow trout, anglers benefit from attentive coaching and unrivaled river access.

Beyond guiding, Angler’s West offers a well-regarded fly shop supplying quality gear and personalized advice. Owner Matson R.'s readiness to assist customers, even when equipment mishaps occur, reflects the team’s dedication to customer satisfaction and fostering angler confidence.

The region around Emigrant features towering Absaroka mountain peaks and basalt canyon walls, with wildlife like bald eagles and river otters often observed nearby. The Yellowstone River corridor echoes a history of Native American tribes and early Western explorers, adding cultural depth to every cast.

Angler’s West’s seamless balance of expert guiding, hands-on learning, and prime fishing stretches make it a standout outfitter for anyone intent on maximizing their Yellowstone River fly fishing adventure.

Adventure Tips

Wear Polarized Sunglasses

Essential for spotting trout in the clear Yellowstone waters and protecting your eyes from glare.

Stay Hydrated on the River

Bring plenty of water—floating can be deceptively dehydrating under the sun.

Dress in Layers

River temperatures vary; layering helps manage early-season chills or afternoon warmth.

Listen to Your Guide

Guides tailor techniques and locations to current conditions—follow their cues for the best fishing.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • The secluded Lamar Valley access points for early season fishing
  • Small tributaries near Emigrant for quiet wade fishing

Wildlife

  • Bald eagle
  • River otter

History

The Yellowstone River is part of one of the richest trout fisheries in the U.S., with fishing traditions that date back centuries, including Native American heritage and early Western exploration.

Conservation

Angler’s West promotes catch-and-release practices and educates anglers on minimizing impact to protect native fish populations and river habitat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour near sunrise
Late afternoon light
Calm midday reflections

Best Viewpoints

  • Cliffs overlooking the Yellowstone River
  • Drift boat on open stretches
  • Riverbanks near basalt rock formations

What to Photograph

Trout rises and insect hatches
Dramatic river canyon landscapes
Wildlife such as eagles and otters

Recommended Gear

Wading Boots with Felt or Rubber Soles

Essential

Offer traction and protection on slippery riverbeds during guided wading or boat entry.

spring|summer|fall specific

Lightweight Waterproof Jacket

Essential

Keeps anglers dry during unexpected rain or river spray.

spring|fall|summer specific

Fishing Vest or Pack

Essential

Keeps flies, tippet, and tools organized and easily accessible on the water.

Sun Protection Hat

Essential

Protects head and face from intense mountain sun exposure during long days afloat.

summer|spring|fall specific

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