Montana Fly Fishing Magazine

07/24/2025

If you're looking for a fly pattern that's effective in the spring, throughout the summer, and into early fall—you'll want to give the tan cicada foam a try.

For materials and instructions, visit: https://tinyurl.com/2aan6dx7

07/23/2025

There's still time to win a Hardy Ultralite LL fly rod paired with an Ultradisc Cassete fly reel (a $1,250 combo), ideal for small-stream fishing around Montana.

To enter, read our latest issue at digital.myflyfishingmag.com, then let us know in the comments what you liked and what you'd like to see more of. We'll be selecting a winner soon!

Learn more about the rod and reel at https://www.hardyfishing.com

07/22/2025

When was the last time you found a fly but couldn't identify what it was? We'd be willing to bet it hasn't been that long. That's where IdentaFly comes in. Use their handy app to quickly identify any insect you find on the water, plus instructions on how to tie imitations and information on recent & upcoming hatches.

While you're at it, be sure to check out Lakeshore Cabins & Campground in the Mecca of Montana Fly Fishing: Ennis. Nestled on the shore of Ennis Lake, it's great for a family vacations and destination fishing trips alike.

Find their advertisements on page 34 & 35 of the Spring/Summer edition of Montana Fly Fishing magazine at https://tinyurl.com/2rwb48ay and be sure to read on for the step-by-step instructions on how to tie the Tan Cicada Foam fly.

07/17/2025

Hoot, hoot.

https://online.publicationprinters.com/html5/reader/production/default.aspx?pubname=&edid=4af11205-d99c-4209-89ab-cbe63507c0a6&pnum=64

Current restrictions and closures, including hoot-owl

07/16/2025

We all dream of landing a trophy trout whenever we hit the river, but let's face it: fishing pressure is increasing, fish counts are declining, and it's just damn tough out there some days. Often, all that's bitin' are the lil' guys—and while they don't put up much of a fight, they could score you something bigger: an all-expense-paid-fly-fishing trip with expert guide Ty Niemitts.

To win, turn your tiny catch into a titan by snapping a clever photo that makes your small fry look like a big ol' lunker. Submit your entry; the best "big little fish" photo scores an outsized prize.

So get creative, and visit the contest page below for more info.

Sweet Little Lies

07/14/2025

In this streamside episode of O/B Radio, host Leslie Gaines sits down with Dale Sexton to reflect on the history of fly fishing in Livingston, and the iconic Dan Bailey's fly shop.

Dale shares personal stories of growing up in Livingston, his early ties to Dan Bailey’s, and his indirect route to eventually buying the legendary shop. The two also reflect on the evolution of fly fishing, challenges posed by increasing visitation, and the importance of community involvement in conservation efforts.

Tune in on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube.

In this streamside episode of O/B Radio, host Leslie Gaines sits down with Dale Sexton to reflect on the history of fly fishing in Livingston and the iconic Dan Bailey’s Fly Shop. Dale shares personal stories of growing up in Livingston, his early ties to Dan Bailey’s, and his indirect route to ...

07/10/2025

Have a favorite fly fishing or outdoor photo you think is one of a kind? There's still time to enter Big Sky Country State Fair's photo competition. Submit your best photo by Monday, July 14, for a chance to win some great prizes and inclusion in the fall issue of Outside Bozeman magazine.

Photographers of all levels are welcome. For more information about contest guidelines visit: https://406statefair.com/competitive/

07/09/2025

As the old adage goes, you either buy it nice, or buy it twice. That's why we're psyched to have one of the most reputable names in the angling world, Hardy Fly Fishing, as both an advertiser, and as a sponsor for our upcoming summer giveaway.

Check out their ad on page 33 of the Spring/Summer 2025 edition of MFFM at https://tinyurl.com/ddkj2v6d, and be sure to read up on all things grayling in our fish feature, "Silver Bullet."

07/07/2025

It's Giveaway Time! To celebrate our Spring/Summer 2025 issue, we're giving away a Hardy Ultralite LL fly rod paired with an Ultradisc Cassete fly reel—a $1,250 combo, ideal for small-stream fishing around Montana.

To enter, read the digital edition at https://tinyurl.com/yyxc5wc5, then tell us in the comments what you liked and what you'd like to see more of. No brown-nosing now; we want astute observations and legit advice.

We'll scoop a name from the bowl later this summer. So get reading, and get more info about the rod and reel at hardyfishing.com.

07/01/2025

This week, we'd like to extend a special thanks to an organization that's not only supporting us but also helping protect and improve the quality of Montana's waters: the Western Montana Conservation Commission.

Check out their spread on page two of the current issue at https://tinyurl.com/32ubcx5b, and learn more about when to get your watercraft inspected. While you're at it, be sure to read up on all things angling here in Montana in the Spring/Summer edition of Montana Fly Fishing Magazine.

06/25/2025

Update: Don't be fooled. While the original plan to sell millions of acres of land has been blocked, the proposal is being re-written to try again, and our public lands and waters are still very much at stake.

Join Backcountry Hunters & Anglers Flood the Lines Day today: call, email, and stop this thing in its tracks.

For more information visit: https://www.backcountryhunters.org/take_action #/487

06/25/2025

Our sponsors keep Montana Fly Fishing Magazine free. Without them, we wouldn't be able to keep bringing you all the great angling content you know and love.

We'd like to extend our thanks to one of our advertisers, Denny Menholt Honda.

Stop by their newly remodeled location, check out the great inventory and ask about the soon-to-be released 2026 Honda Passport—the ultimate rig to get you to and from your favorite fishing hole. Find their spread in the recent edition of the magazine at https://tinyurl.com/rpnahd32, right before our editors opening piece—"Big Sky's the Limit"—on the endless possibilities for anglers here in Montana.