From $575

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5/5

(21)
Yellowstone River Float
Gear Included: Yes
License Required: Yes
Live Bait: No, not provided
Fishing Game Cleaning: No, not provided
Tackle: All rods, reels, and tackle are included.

Fishing Area

Techniques

Guide_Photo-CE508
Your Guide: Nate S.
Experience: 31 years of exp.

About Your Guide

Nate and his experienced team are your premier fly fishing guides throughout Montana. They travel extensively across the state and neighboring areas, targeting Rainbow and Brown Trout found in nearly every corner of Montana. Their base locations include Bozeman, West Yellowstone, Ennis, Helena, Cascade, Three Forks, and Cameron. The team expertly fishes renowned rivers such as the Madison, Missouri, Yellowstone, Gallatin, Jefferson, Ruby, Firehole, Gibbon, Lamar, and Bighorn. Additionally, they provide guided adventures on lakes like Holter, Hebgen, and Ennis, as well as on Soda Butte and Slough Creek, with special fishing access to the iconic Yellowstone National Park.

Nate’s roots in Montana run deep, dating back to the late 1800s when his great-great-grandfather settled in Billings after working on a cattle drive. Although fishing is part of his family heritage, Nate didn’t start fly fishing until he was thirteen, which he marks as the beginning of his passion. He spent his early years exploring rivers such as the Bighorn, Yellowstone, Stillwater, and Boulder, then began guiding in 1999 while attending Montana State University. Over two decades later, Nate continues to guide anglers of all backgrounds, sharing his expertise with aspiring guides. He treasures the wide range of clients he’s had the joy to guide—from young children to elders, individuals with disabilities, those facing serious illnesses, families, and large groups.

In Nate’s own words, “I understand the importance of equipping people with the skills they need to fully enjoy fly fishing, creating lasting memories for both the client and me.” A single father residing in Bozeman with his daughters Emily and Elizabeth, Nate makes the daily drive to Montana’s stunning waters and is eager to share the experience with you, your family, and friends. Simply provide your preferred date, group size, trip length, and starting time to book an unforgettable fishing day with Nate and his team.

Our outing with Nate’s guide Patrick was truly memorable. Patrick’s professionalism and friendliness made the experience enjoyable for beginners, while his deep knowledge of the Madison River translated into several catches, including brown and rainbow trout, as well as whitefish. Even without catching fish, the day would have been a rewarding one thanks to the serene surroundings and expert guidance.

Fishing the Yellowstone River from a drift boat was a must-do for me, and I was fortunate to check it off my list. Having ample fishing experience in various places, I know trips can be hit or miss, but this day was a definite success. We met our guide Nathan at 8 a.m. and quickly hit the water. As newcomers to fly fishing, Nathan’s 35 years of experience proved invaluable. He was patient, knowledgeable, and a pleasure to spend the day with.

The river teemed with grasshoppers, inspiring our fly selection for the day. Using larger hoppers with a smaller floating fly about eight inches behind, I witnessed fascinating reactions from the fish—some aggressively striking, others gently sipping, and a few just curious. After some practice, I caught a couple of small rainbow trout, an accomplishment I intend to build on during my upcoming Colorado trip.

Though my fishing partner struggled initially, Nathan switched tactics in the afternoon, introducing a nymph rig with an indicator, ensuring she caught a rainbow and a native whitefish. She enjoyed relaxing and soaking in the beautiful scenery while staying committed to casting throughout the day. Nathan remained patient through our rookie mistakes and even lightened the mood with his humor during tangled casts.

Of all the fishing guides I’ve experienced—from the Great Barrier Reef to Belize and Colorado—Nathan ranks among the best. Though the fishing wasn’t fast-paced, the steady bites and Nathan’s constant adjustments kept us successful. The river traffic was noticeable but manageable, and Nathan’s calm and courteous approach made the day pleasurable despite a few close encounters with other boats. His respect for others on the water set a great example for our outing.

Fishing from the drift boat was comfortable and safe, with ample room to stand and cast from the bell boat’s leaning post. I also learned a great deal about how drift boats handle on the water. As we continue searching for a mountain retreat, Montana has certainly earned top marks for its excellent public fishing access.

Thanks to Nathan’s team for arranging this trip and to Captain Experiences for seamlessly coordinating the booking. Nathan’s professionalism shone through with clear communication, thorough itineraries, and ongoing support before, during, and after the trip. If you're planning a fishing trip in the Yellowstone region, he comes highly recommended.

Our day was a fantastic way to enjoy Montana’s stunning wilderness, including witnessing wolves daily and abundant wildlife sightings. Nathan, you've earned a place on my bucket list for future fishing adventures along the Madison. Thanks for such an incredible experience.

Jim, Deborah, Tina, and Terry shared their enthusiasm as well:

"Thanks, Nate, for another fantastic trip, this time down the Missouri River. Drew and Will were outstanding guides, tirelessly working to keep us on big fish all day despite challenging conditions with high temperatures and strong winds. Their dedication to changing fly patterns and repositioning us continually led to a memorable day."

"Our Madison River trip was fabulous. Ryan and Matt excelled as guides, consistently changing tactics and moving us to stay on the fish-rich seams. We appreciate their hard work and great company."

"Matt was a wonderful guide, and I look forward to booking with him again next June. Nate’s prompt communication and thorough information made for a smooth trip from start to finish."

"The experience from booking with Ian to fishing with Matt was exceptional. Matt’s passion brightened the day, and the beautiful weather combined with light success on the water made for a great trip, even if the fish hadn’t cooperated."

"Fishing the Missouri with Shelly was a highlight for first-time fly fishers like us. Shelly’s expertise helped me land my first Rainbow Trout on a fly rod. Highly recommended for anglers of all levels!"

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Cancelations:

You can cancel your booking without any fees if you do so at least 60 days prior to your trip and get a credit issued to your account. If you cancel within 60 days of your trip date, your deposit will be non-refundable and retained by the guide. Should you cancel on the day of the trip or fail to show up, the full trip amount will be charged to your payment method.

Recommended Packing:

Don’t forget to bring a hat, sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, and a rain jacket for your trip. If you require wader and wading boot rentals, please inform us when booking so we can have the gear ready for your arrival. Rental fees are $30 for a half-day and $40 for a full-day.

If you plan to use studded boots, kindly mention this in advance so we can prepare the appropriate mats for the drift boats.

Your trip package includes lunch, non-alcoholic drinks, and all necessary tackle such as flies, leaders, and tippet. Additionally, shuttle service for the guide’s vehicle from the boat launch to the take-out is provided. If you don’t have your own rods, your guide will supply them for you.

Disability Friendly: Yes
Child Friendly: Yes
Beer Welcome: Yes
Open On: Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun

Embark on an unforgettable fly-fishing adventure as you drift peacefully down the Yellowstone River with an expert guide by your side. Prepare for an exciting day targeting Brown Trout and Rainbow Trout in one of Montana's prime fishing destinations.

The Yellowstone River, renowned as the longest free-flowing river in the lower 48 states, is best navigated by drift or jet boat due to its expansive size. Unlike tailwater fisheries like the Madison, Bighorn, and Missouri Rivers, its fishing season starts slightly later, making it a must-visit for anglers seeking both stunning views and exceptional trout fishing opportunities.

Stretching from Emigrant to Livingston, Montana, the Yellowstone River is home to diverse species including Rainbows, Browns, Cutthroats, Cutbows, and Mountain Whitefish. While the section between Livingston and Columbus might offer less dramatic scenery, it boasts some impressively large Brown Trout. This area is especially renowned for exciting terrestrial fly fishing, with the river meandering through hayfields teeming with grasshoppers.

Choose between a half-day or full-day trip, where your knowledgeable guide will expertly row you along the river in a nimble drift boat, positioning you in prime fishing spots amidst breathtaking surroundings. Your guide will share invaluable fly-fishing techniques and assist you in landing your catch. Drift boats provide an excellent advantage, allowing you to explore a wider range of fishing locations and access areas that are too deep or swift for wading. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced angler, expect a fun and educational outing that results in fish on your line!

No matter where you’re staying—whether Bozeman, Ennis, Cameron, Helena, Livingston, West Yellowstone, or Fort Smith—your guide can conveniently pick you up from your accommodation, campsite, or even the airport. If your lodging is out of the way, simply arrange a meeting point that suits your plans for the day on the water.

The guide will provide all essential gear, including rods, reels, flies, and tippet, as well as a delicious lunch to keep you fueled. Should you require waders and wading boots, these are available for rent at an additional cost—just mention your needs when booking. Don’t forget to bring your valid Montana fishing license, and pack essentials such as a hat, sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, and a rain jacket to stay comfortable throughout your trip.

We also offer several float trip options across the Bozeman and Yellowstone National Park area. To ensure you have the best possible experience, your guide might suggest alternate fishing locations if conditions are more favorable elsewhere. Whether you prefer to stick with the Yellowstone River or explore other waters, feel free to book this trip, and your guide will reach out with personalized recommendations and details!

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Adres: E River Rd, Livingston, MT 59047, USA
Sanitary facilities: No
Lodging Included: No
From $575
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