A great day of fly-fishing starts with the right stretch of water—and the right place to stay. Across Western Montana’s Glacier Country, anglers can settle in above a fly shop, book a full-service fishing getaway or camp along some of the region’s most storied rivers. Pack your waders and find your home base at one of these angler-friendly stays.
STAY CLOSE TO TOWN—AND THE FLY SHOP
Dry Fly Apartments
For easy access to both the river and downtown Missoula, check in to the Dry Fly Apartments. Located above the Grizzly Hackle Fly Shop and just 100 yards from the Clark Fork River, these two-bedroom apartments put fishing gear, local restaurants, breweries, shops and entertainment within walking distance. Each apartment includes a full kitchen and accommodates up to six guests.
Grizzly Hackle’s Stay & Fish Packages pair lodging with a half-day or full-day guided trip. Depending on conditions, anglers may fish the Clark Fork, Bitterroot or Blackfoot rivers or Rock Creek. Trips are available for beginners and experienced anglers, with multiday options available by request.
Bitterroot Retreat & Adventures
In Stevensville, Bitterroot Retreat & Adventures combines updated cabin accommodations with an on-site fly shop and quick access to the Bitterroot River. The cabins were remodeled in 2024 and include modern amenities, while the property’s Lightweight Fly Shop keeps essential gear close at hand. The Bitterroot River is about a mile away, with walk-in and boat-launch access nearby.
Lightweight Fly Shop also offers guided trips and Stay & Play experiences pairing cabin accommodations with days on the water. Guides work with new and seasoned anglers and lead trips on rivers including the Bitterroot and Blackfoot.
Sherman Lodge at True Water Fly Shop
At Sherman Lodge at True Water Fly Shop, your room and local fishing expertise are under one roof. Located in downtown Kalispell, the lodge occupies the upper floors of the historic Sherman Building, while True Water Fly Shop operates below.
Choose from four guest rooms with private bathrooms and shared access to a kitchen, living area and outdoor patio, or reserve the top-floor Sherman Loft. Stop by the fly shop for gear, current fishing reports or help arranging a guided trip on waters throughout the region, including the Flathead River.
BOOK A FULL-SERVICE FISHING GETAWAY
Missoula River Lodge
Missoula River Lodge offers two ways to plan a fly-fishing getaway: Stay at one of its all-inclusive riverfront lodges or combine guided fishing with accommodations in downtown Missoula.
The lodge property spans 100 acres along the Clark Fork River and includes three distinct lodging options, a mile of river frontage and a private boat ramp. Its location also provides access to the Clark Fork, Bitterroot and Blackfoot rivers, as well as Rock Creek.
Anglers who prefer a downtown home base can book a Missoula River Lodge Hotel Lodging Fly-Fishing Package at the Residence Inn by Marriott Missoula Downtown or Staybridge Suites by IHG. Packages include lodging, guided fishing, shore-side lunches, flies and tackle, plus daily pickup by your guide. Restaurants are within walking distance, making it possible to enjoy the trip without renting a car.
Kootenai Angler
Make fishing the focus of your stay at Kootenai Angler near Libby. Located along the Kootenai River, this full-service outfitter offers multiday fishing and lodging packages designed to simplify trip planning. Anglers can spend their days fishing with experienced guides and return to riverside accommodations at the end of the day.
The property also includes a fly shop and The Riverbend Restaurant and Saloon, giving guests access to guides, gear, lodging and dining in one location. Learn more about the story of Kootenai Angler and people who know these waters in our Guiding Glacier series.
Spotted Bear Ranch
For an immersive wilderness fishing trip, stay at Spotted Bear Ranch in the Bob Marshall Wilderness. This Orvis-endorsed fly-fishing lodge sits along the South Fork of the Flathead River and offers guided fishing in a remote setting surrounded by mountains, forests and wildlife.
Lodging packages include cabin accommodations, chef-prepared meals and beverages, allowing guests to settle in and focus on time outdoors. After a day of fishing, return to the ranch for dinner and a quiet evening far from the distractions of everyday life.
CAMP ALONG THE WATER
Ekstrom’s Stage Station
For a more laid-back stay near one of Montana’s best-known trout streams, head to Ekstrom’s Stage Station Campground in Clinton. This historic campground sits along Rock Creek about 20 minutes east of Missoula and offers direct access to the water.
Accommodations include RV and tent sites, rustic cabins, tiny houses and a century-old schoolhouse. Guests also have access to hot showers, Wi-Fi, laundry facilities and other campground amenities. The collection of historic log buildings and pine-shaded setting make Ekstrom’s an easygoing home base for days spent fishing Rock Creek.
Angler’s Roost RV & Campground
Located along the Bitterroot River in Hamilton, Anglers Roost makes it easy to fish close to camp. The property offers RV and tent camping, along with direct river access and an on-site boat ramp.
Before heading out, stop by the general store for fishing supplies or pick up anything you need for a day on the water. Angler’s Roost also offers glamping accommodations—in a Conestoga wagon—for guests looking for an alternative to a traditional campsite.
MONTANA FISHING LICENSE REQUIREMENTS
A valid fishing license is required to fish Montana state waters for anyone 12 or older. Most anglers must also have a Conservation License and an Angler Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention Pass. Learn more here.
Please note: We ask that all our visitors and residents recreate responsibly by being mindful of the following: know before you go; plan ahead; play it safe; leave no trace; tread lightly; and help build an inclusive outdoors.
July 27, 2026
Related: Camping/RVing, Clinton, Fishing, Hamilton, Hungry Horse, Kalispell, Libby, Missoula, Outdoor Fun, Outfitters, Stay, Stevensville, Water Fun
Comments