CAPTAIN GARY BEHRENT
Roots as deep as the cottonwoods that line the rivers, Montana runs through him like the very blood in his veins. Gary is five generations worth of Montana’s finest. Dedication to family, friends, and hard work and a deep love for the natural world are hallmarks of his lineage.
THE RIVERS WE FISH
Madison River
The Madison River in Montana is well known and highly sought after fly fishing location, offering anglers a wide range of experiences with its varied habitat, hatches and techniques.
From the headwaters of Yellowstone National Park to the Missouri River, this legendary river offers consistent fishing opportunities throughout the year, allowing visitors to experience the beauty of Montana’s natural landscape and catch some of the best wild trout in the West.
With stunning scenery and productive hatches for both dry flies and streamers, there is something for everyone on the Madison River.
Missouri River
The Missouri or the Mighty Mo’ as it is colloquially known begins its journey to the Mississippi River about Three Forks Montana. The Madison, Gallatin and Jefferson rivers flow together here at Missouri river Headwaters State Park.
From this point the Missouri flows north passing through four dams and creating four reservoirs. There can be some good fishing all through the system with a variety of species including trout, but numbers here are lower and more spread out.
The numbers of trout are significantly greatly from Hauser reservoir down stream. Land of the giants is a section of river between Hauser dam and Holter lake known for big fish and big numbers, time of year dependant.
Below Holter reservoir is the blue ribbon section of the Missouri. Numbers here are the highest in the system and arguably the state. This is true large tail water fishing here. Nymphing is the standard, but when the dry fly fishing is good, its REALLY good. We prefer to go here early and late season.
March, April, may and June are great months on the Missouri and when we spend the most time here. September and October can be very productive months as well.
The Missouri is great for beginners and advanced fisherman alike affording great opportunities for learning and testing of skill. While the Missouri can be a day trip, it is best when given a couple days of fishing. This river fishes a little differently and it takes a bit to get in line with its nuances and idiosyncrasies.
Gallatin River
The Gallatin is the life blood of the “valley of the flowers” as it was known to the indigenous peoples of the area. Originating in the Gallatin range on the northern edge of Yellowstone park the river makes a journey of 120 miles to its confluence with the Madison and the Jefferson rivers thereby forming the Mighty Missouri.
The Gallatin is a true freestone river, fast, cold, and rocky. We use this river primarily as a walk/wade river as fishing from a vessel is prohibited for most of the rivers length.
It is a very scenic river with a character all its own from the pine forests of the canyon section to the cottonwoods of the valley floor. The Gallatin is very accessible in terms of parking opportunities but somewhat difficult walking and wading. Those willing and able to walk have the best success fishing here.
RATES
HALF DAY TRIPS
⪡ $500 ⪢
(includes beverages)
FULL DAY TRIPS
⪡ $650 ⪢
(includes lunch and beverages)
LAND OF THE GIANTS JET BOAT TRIP
⪡ $700 ⪢
(1 or 2 anglers. 3 anglers add $100)
Trip rate includes all terminal tackle including flies, leaders, tippet, and rods and reels. Lunch and beverages are provided. Guided trips can be paid for with cash, check or card. A trip deposit of $200 per trip (trip applies per guide/boat) is due to hold your reservation at the time of booking. Licenses and gratuity are not included in trip price. Licenses need to be obtained prior to trip; this can be done HERE.