LONG OUTFITTING

Montana weather can be very unpredictable to say the least. In the high country, you could see snow 12 months a year. In the river bottoms, we can hit triple digits temperatures, but that occurance is rare. During guide trips, temperatures often fluctuate 20-40 degrees between sunrise and early afternoon, and afternoon thunderstorms in the summer are common. In order to stay comfortable during your trip, please take into consideration what the weather could do, not what you think it will do.

 

March, April, and May are wonderful months to fish in Montana. The days are getting longer, the grass is starting to turn green, and the mountains are still covered with snow. Mornings are typically brisk, but by the time midday rolls around clothing layers are coming off. This time of the year, Montana receives quite a bit of rain, and a slight chance of snow, with average high temps ranging from the 40's to the 70's, and lows in the 20's to 50's.

 

June, July, and August are peak months for the guide trips. Summer is here and the weather is more predictable, with the exception of occasional afternoon thunderstorms. Most freestone streams in the region are coming into shape after over a month of snow runoff, and our wet wading season is kicking into gear with rising water temperatures. Average highs range from the 70's and 80's, with lows in the 40's to 60's.

 

September and October bring more variability to guessing what the weather will do. Much like spring time weather, the fall can be unpredictable. Don't be surprised if it snows one day and is in the 70's just 24 hours later. This time of the year is one our personal favorites to be on the rivers, with low, clear, and cool water, leaves changing colors in the river bottoms, and snow in the high country dusting the mountain tops. Winter is just around the corner so you need to be prepared with layers of clothing. Fall temperatures can range from the 40's to 70's for highs and lows in the 20's to 40's.

 

November through February is winter in Montana. When the air temperatures are in the 20's through the 40's and the wind is not howling, the fishing is actually quite good. The spring creeks and tailwater fisheries are great options this time of year. The river valleys don't have consistent snow cover because the mountains suck out most of the moisture, but you still need to be prepared for inclement weather. Average highs are in the 20's to 40's with lows ranging from the 10's to 30's.