Nate serves as your ultimate resource for fly fishing adventures throughout Montana. Together with his team, he ventures to locations abundant with Rainbow and Brown Trout, covering nearly the entire state and beyond. Based in Bozeman, West Yellowstone, Ennis, Helena, Cascade, Three Forks, and Cameron, Montana, Nate and his guides fish renowned rivers such as the Madison, Missouri, Yellowstone, Gallatin, Jefferson, Ruby, Firehole, Gibbon, Lamar, and Bighorn. Additionally, they provide guided fly fishing excursions on lakes including Holter, Hebgen, and Ennis, as well as Soda Butte and Slough Creek. Access to iconic spots within Yellowstone National Park is also part of their offerings.
Nate’s connection to Montana runs deep, tracing back to the late 1800s when his great-great-grandfather settled in Billings after working as a cook during a cattle drive. Though fishing was a family tradition, Nate didn’t start fly fishing until he was 13, marking the beginning of his passion for the sport. He explored rivers such as the Bighorn, Yellowstone, Stillwater, and Boulder regularly and began guiding in 1999 while studying at Montana State University. Over two decades later, Nate continues to guide anglers of all skill levels and takes pride in mentoring up-and-coming guides.
He treasures the chance to work with a wide range of clients, from young beginners to seasoned anglers aged 90, including those with disabilities or terminal illnesses, families, and large groups. Nate believes in the importance of teaching essential skills to ensure clients create lasting memories on the water. As a single father living in Bozeman with his two daughters, Emily and Elizabeth, he looks forward to sharing Montana's fishing experiences with you and your loved ones. To start your journey, simply provide the date, group size, trip length, and preferred start time for an unforgettable day on the water.
Accommodation options suggested by Nate are not included in the trip cost but can be requested in the notes section during booking. Additional lodging options can be found on the map below.
Clients have shared glowing reviews of their time with Nate and his guides. One memorable day with guide Patrick featured expert instruction tailored for beginners, resulting in multiple catches including brown and rainbow trout and whitefish. Another angler recounted a rewarding drift boat trip on the Yellowstone with guide Nathan, highlighting his 35 years of experience, patient teaching, and technical skill. Despite being novices, they learned new techniques such as topwater hopper fishing and nymph rigging, which left them eager to apply these skills on future trips.
Nathan’s calm demeanor, adaptability, and good humor made the day enjoyable even during the inevitable challenges of fly fishing. Clients appreciated his efforts to introduce various flies and tactics to maximize catch chances, as well as his professionalism and respectful conduct on busy waterways.
Feedback consistently praises Nate’s team for their dedication, from Drew and Will’s relentless energy on the Missouri River to Ryan and Matt’s flexibility on the Madison River. Many look forward to returning for new adventures with guides like Matt and Shelly, who combine expert knowledge with a passion for helping anglers of all experience levels.
Nate remains committed to providing first-class fishing experiences, backed by clear communication and thorough planning. Whether you’re a beginner eager to learn or a seasoned fisherman seeking new waters, Nate and his guides offer outstanding opportunities to explore Montana’s remarkable rivers and lakes.
You can cancel your booking without any charge up to 60 days prior to your scheduled trip and the amount will be refunded as credit to your account. If you cancel within 60 days of the trip date, your deposit will be retained by the guide. Cancellations made on the day of the trip or if you fail to show up will result in the full trip cost being billed to your payment method.
Please bring a hat, sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, and a rain jacket. If you require waders and wading boots, we offer rentals—just inform us when booking, and we’ll have them ready upon your arrival. Rental fees are $30 for a half day and $40 for a full day.
Included with your trip are lunch, non-alcoholic beverages, all tackle (including flies, leaders, and tippet), and shuttle service for the guide's vehicle from the boat put-in to the take-out. If you don’t have your own fishing rod, your guide will provide one.
Embark on an exciting Montana fly-fishing adventure as you float down the stunning Madison River with one of the region’s top guides. This trip focuses on targeting both Brown Trout and Rainbow Trout, offering an action-packed day on the water.
The Madison River is home to wild populations of Rainbow and Brown Trout, ranging from 10 to 28 inches, with an average size of about 18 inches. During the fall spawning run from Hebgen Lake, usually from October through November, anglers can expect to catch larger fish, averaging 19 inches, with some Browns reaching up to 28 inches. Be prepared for winter-like conditions during this time, as temperatures may drop below freezing on any given day.
Choose between a half-day or full-day trip, where your experienced guide will row you in a nimble drift boat to prime fishing spots while you take in the breathtaking scenery. Drift boats provide access to a wider range of areas, including spots that are unsafe to wade, allowing you to maximize your fishing experience. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced fly fisher, your guide will offer expert tips and ensure you have the best chance to hook some trophy fish.
No matter where you're staying in Montana — from Bozeman, Ennis, Cameron, Helena, Livingston, West Yellowstone, to Fort Smith — your guide can arrange convenient pickup. Whether it’s your vacation rental, lodge, hotel, campsite, or even the airport, you'll be transported comfortably to the launch site. If your accommodations are a bit remote, simply meet your guide at a convenient spot for your day on the water.
All fishing gear, including rods, reels, flies, and tippet, will be supplied by your guide. Additionally, a delicious lunch will be provided for all participants. Should you need waders and wading boots, these are available to rent for an extra fee — just let your guide know when you book. To enjoy the day fully prepared, bring your valid Montana fishing license, along with a hat, sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, and a rain jacket for comfort and protection.
We offer several other float trip options around Bozeman and Yellowstone National Park. To ensure you have the best fishing experience possible, your guide may recommend alternative locations based on current conditions. Whether you want to stick to the Madison River or explore other excellent spots, feel free to book your float trip through this listing, and your guide will reach out with personalized details.
Nate and his team also manage several rental properties tailored for anglers. If you’re interested, you can discuss accommodation options with Nate after booking your trip.
