Missoula fly fishing is an experience unlike any other! River fishing is abundant, the mountain views are breathtaking, and the city has something for everyone. Missoula sits at the confluence of three legendary rivers — the Clark Fork, Blackfoot, and Bitterroot rivers – and is home to many diverse Missoula fly fishing opportunities and prolific hatching seasons. The area is home to both native and introduced species of trout, and conservation efforts have helped keep fish populations robust. Our Missoula Bed and Breakfast is just minutes from the Clark Fork River and an easy day trip away from some of the best fishing of your lifetime.
The area has several major fishable rivers, in addition to smaller creeks and local lakes, all with different personalities and options for Missoula fly fishing. With more than 400 miles of water to craft a memorable adventure, you can easily carve out your own piece of water for an epic fly fishing adventure in the Missoula area. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, Missoula fly fishing has something to offer.
Beginners can enjoy relatively easy access points and slower-moving sections of the rivers, while experts can challenge themselves on more technical waters. Many fly shops in Missoula offer lessons, rentals, and guided trips, which can help you make the most of your time on the water. Missoula has a vibrant guide community, with many expert fly fishing guides ready to show you the best spots. Local guides know the rivers intimately, and they can help you navigate tricky waters, find fish, and learn the best techniques for the area. We recommend Blackfoot River Outfitters, Missoula on the Fly, and The Grizzly Hackle.
Whether you’re chasing trophy fish, looking for solitude in a wild, remote river, or simply enjoying some of the most beautiful landscapes in the U.S., Missoula fly fishing offers an unparalleled destination for anglers of all skill levels. After a long day on the river, you’ll want a place to relax and unwind. Our Missoula Bed and Breakfast offers a comfortable, quiet environment where you can enjoy a peaceful retreat. Whether you’re soaking in the beautiful mountain views, enjoying your meal, or just lounging in your room, you’ll find it the perfect spot to rest up for another day of fishing. Book your stay today!
When to Take Missoula Fly Fishing Trips
For most anglers, the best time to plan your Missoula fly fishing trips is late spring through early fall, particularly June through September. However, fall (September and October) can be an excellent time for those who want to avoid the crowds and enjoy some big fish action. If you’re targeting specific species, like early-run rainbows or post-spawn browns, spring or fall might be ideal, while summer is great for the classic “all-around” fly fishing experience in Missoula’s famous trout waters.
Regardless of when you come to the area, you can expect some truly exceptional Missoula fly fishing experiences at your fingertips. Below, we’ve outlined some top places to fish near our Bed and Breakfast.
- Clark Fork River: Flowing through the center of downtown Missoula, this expansive river offers some of the area’s most convenient and rewarding fly fishing opportunities in Missoula. Known for wild rainbow trout downstream and brown trout upstream, it’s also a hotspot for kayaking and tubing adventures.
- Blackfoot River: As the inspiration behind A River Runs Through It, the Blackfoot River is as stunning as it is rewarding for anglers. It’s a prime spot for catching cutthroat, rainbow, and brown trout. This river’s dynamic conditions make it an excellent choice for guided Missoula fly fishing trips to ensure a successful day on the water.
- Bitterroot River: Head upstream to escape the crowds and target larger trout on this picturesque river. Anglers can find a mix of rainbow, brown, and cutthroat trout here. Whether you’re casting from the shore or opting for a scenic float trip, the Bitterroot promises an unforgettable Missoula fly fishing experience.
- Rock Creek: Famous for its blue-ribbon waters, Rock Creek is a fly fisher’s paradise. With plentiful cutthroat, brown, and rainbow trout, it’s a can’t-miss destination for those looking to reel in a catch. Due to limited access, booking a guided float trip is the best way to explore this exceptional stretch of river.
Missoula fly fishing is truly a memorable experience – and with one of the best seasons for fishing just around the corner, now is the time to plan your dream trip. Though these rivers offer distinct adventures, you can also find some excellent fishing north of us at Flathead Lake. You’ll find a range of species there, including pike, whitefish, rainbow trout, yellow perch, kokanee salmon, and bull trout.
The Perfect Place to Land After a Day on the River
Our Missoula Bed and Breakfast is ideally located near some of the best fly fishing rivers in the area, including the Clark Fork, which runs right through the heart of downtown Missoula. Whether you’re targeting the big fish of the Blackfoot or fishing the slower waters of the Bitterroot, you’re only a short drive away from access points and prime fishing locations, all while staying just a few miles from downtown Missoula. From our convenient location, you’ll enjoy the peaceful surroundings of a more rural area and still have easy access to the town’s amenities, like gear shops, restaurants, and fishing guides.
Our staff offers a wealth of local knowledge, too – which is why so many have rated us as one of the best places to stay in Missoula over the years. Whether you’re looking for tips on making the most of your Missoula fly fishing excursions or looking for more recreational opportunities in the area, we’d love to help you plan an unforgettable adventure in Western Montana. Moreover, our Missoula Bed and Breakfast offers a variety of amenities to help you enjoy your stay.
One of our top-rated amenities, of course, is our daily breakfast. We feature unique dishes such as delicate Swedish pancakes or a hearty Missoula, Montana breakfast of tender steak and fresh eggs. Whatever’s on the menu for the day, you can be assured it’ll be the perfect start to your day ahead. When you’re exhausted from your adventures, our cozy guest rooms are the perfect place to rest your head. Each of our guest rooms features king or queen beds, private baths with jetted tubs and showers, and a host of other in-suite amenities. They also offer picturesque views of gardens, forests, mountains, or the valley to enhance your time away.
If you have a non-fishing partner or family with you, the area near our Missoula Bed and Breakfast offers other outdoor activities like hiking, mountain biking, or wildlife viewing, adding to the experience for your entire group! There’s something for everyone at the Blue Mountain Inn during your Missoula fly fishing trip. Reserve your room today.
