Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know before your first — or fifteenth — trip with Zootown Anglers.
Before You Book
Do I need experience to book a guided fly fishing trip?
No experience is required. Jason and his guides work with complete beginners regularly — and it’s some of our favorite guiding when folks come in with a positive attitude, realistic expectations, and a desire to learn. We’ll walk you through everything from casting basics to reading water and landing your fish. You’ll be surprised how quickly it clicks. Many first-timers land fish on their very first trip. Fishing from a boat, with someone who has mastered the craft, goes a long way to achieving succss.
How far in advance should I book?
As early as possible. Spring season (March–April, May on the Missouri), peak summer hatch windows (June-mid July), and Fall (September-early November) book out months in advance, sometimes almost a year in advance. If you have specific dates in mind, reach out now — even for next season. Last-minute openings do occasionally come up, but don’t count on it for prime dates. Furthermore, I will not simply put just anyone on the oars for my clients. I work with a close knit group of guides AND outfitters I trust to give my clients a great experience on the water. If I can’t find anyone available from within my circle, I won’t take your money. This experience should include quality service for what my clients are paying, and I take pride in that aspect of the business. If you want prime dates, start booking out the year before!
What's the best time of year to fish near Missoula?
Every month has something productive near Missoula. The most in demand windows are the skwala stonefly hatch on the Bitterroot and Clark (March through April) — one of the best early dry fly opportunities in the region. Shortly after that is the salmonfly, golden stone, and green drake windows from around late May through roughly middle of July. Fall (September–early November) brings back the bugs, cold water, beautiful colors, and quiet rivers. These windows book out early every year, and much of the time they book out before the new year even starts. Late July through early August brings on the dog days of summer, and I adhere to only booking half days during this time frame to give the trout a break during the heat and focus on fishing early in the morning and coming off the river before noon. See our seasonal hatch chart for a full breakdown.
Can seniors or anglers with physical limitations book a trip?
Absolutely. Drift boat, or raft, float trips are among the most accessible forms of fly fishing — you fish from a comfortable seated or standing position in a stable boat. No wading required. We guides clients of all ages and physical abilities. Let me know about any specific needs when booking and we’ll plan accordingly.
Gear & Licenses
What gear do I need to bring?
No fishing gear needed — we provide everything. What you should bring: polarized sunglasses (essential for spotting fish and protecting your eyes from flies), sunscreen, a hat, layers for weather changes (mornings can be cold), and comfortable non-slip footwear. A small dry bag or waterproof bag for personal items is helpful. That’s it.
Do I need a Montana fishing license?
Yes. All anglers — including clients on guided trips — must hold a valid Montana Conservation License and Montana Fishing License before the trip. Non-resident licenses are available at https://ols.fwp.mt.gov/ for non resident and resident licenses. Licenses range from 2 day to more, and include a conservation fee.
Can I bring my own fly rod and gear?
Of course. If you have a favorite rod or specific setup you love fishing, bring it. Jason can advise on what’s appropriate for the day’s conditions. That said, the gear we provide is excellent — quality rods, quality reels, and lines optimized for each technique — so there’s never an obligation to bring your own.
On the Water
Which river will we fish?
At Zootown Anglers we monitor all four rivers daily and select stretches based on current conditions, season, and your preferences. We always try to put you on the water that’s fishing best. If you have a specific river in mind — maybe the Blackfoot because of A River Runs Through It, or the Bitterroot because you’ve heard about the trophy browns — just tell Jason when you book and he’ll make it happen if conditions allow.
What's the difference between a float trip and a wade trip?
A float trip involves drifting downriver in a guided drift boat, or raft, covering several miles of water and accessing runs impossible to reach on foot. You fish from the boat with a “team” oriented approach. Zootown Anglers specializes in float trips because they’re the most effective way to cover water and maximize your time on productive fishing, and hatch times.
Is lunch included?
Yes. Full-day float trips include a streamside lunch and beverages throughout the day. Half-day trips include snacks and drinks. Dietary restrictions and preferences are always accommodated — just let Jason know when you book
Do you practice catch and release?
100%, every single trip. We fish barbless hooks, use rubber nets, keep fish in the water as much as possible, take quick photos, and ensure every fish is fully revived before release. This isn’t just a preference — it’s a commitment to the rivers and future generations of anglers who’ll fish them after us.
Booking & Cancellation
What's your cancellation policy?
What if the weather is bad on my trip day?
We fish in most weather. Overcast, rainy, and even lightly snowy days often produce the best hatches and most active fish — trout don’t care about your comfort. If genuine safety concerns arise (significant lightning, dangerous flooding), the trip is rescheduled or your deposit is fully refunded. Jason monitors forecasts closely and will always communicate proactively.
How many people can fish in one boat?
Standard trips are 1–2 anglers per guide. Groups of 4+ can be arranged with multiple guides and boats, but we strongly encourage, and promote, splitting boats up in different stretches and rivers to both reduce pressure, as well as give everyone an experience that is aesthetically pleasing. The maximum amount of boats we will put in one stretch is two. This is a non-negotiable.
Are gratuities expected?
Tips are never expected, but they’re always appreciated. Industry standard is 15–20% of the trip cost for a great day. Cash is preferred. Your honest enjoyment — and coming back next season — are what we value most at Zootown Anglers.
Still Have a Question?
Jason personally reads and responds to every message. Email him directly or use the contact form — he’ll get back to you within 24 hours.