The Thrill of the Catch

Learning How To Fish

Now that I have your interest, perhaps you realize that you don't have a clue how to go about fishing. Well, that's what I'm here for. If you want to learn to fish, here are 5 easy ways:

* Ask a family member or friend who is an experienced angler to take you along the next time they go fishing -- they will be thrilled to have a new fishing buddy.  At the Fish Creek House, you can fish right here in Fish Creek

* Research online -- there are hundreds of websites with instructions on fishing gear, bait, and fishing tips

* Go to your local library and check out how-to fishing books and magazines

* Any time of year... foul weather gear is essential.. Weather systems move through the front range of the Rockies in a hurry. It can snow in June and I have seen it snow in early September. Generally, shorts and wading sandals are the norm in late June, July and August - but remember there are no guarantees in life. This definitely applies with Montana's weather. A good system of layers is recommended, a lightweight fleece/windstopper is priceless, and a raincoat of some sort should be mandatory.

* If you go on vacation in fishing country (which is darn near anywhere), check with local fishing stores -- they often know local professionals who will teach you how to fish.  We work with local guides and outfitters and can arrange a day on the water

 How To Fly Fish

The fly angler uses a rod much longer and lighter than those used for bait and spin fishing. Fly fishing rods can be 3 m (10 ft) long in freshwater fishing and 4 m (14 ft) long for saltwater fishing. To cast a fly, the angler whisks the fly rod forward and back using the wrist, forearm and upper arm. Generally, the rod is moved from the 10 o'clock position to the 2 o'clock position without letting the line touch the water or ground. During this movement the angler pays out line. The movement continues until a considerable amount of line is airborne. The angler then casts the line to a specific spot with a sharp but smooth snap of the wrist.

Casts are made to likely fishing spots such as pools and pockets in streams. The fly is allowed to touch the water and either float or sink, depending on the type of fly. This presentation of the fly onto the water is one of fly-fishing's most difficult aspects, because the angler is attempting to cast in such a way that the line lands smoothly on the water's surface and the fly appears as natural as possible.

After several moments the angler withdraws the fly by pulling a small portion of line then lifting the tip of the rod. The angler then makes another presentation. When fly-fishing, one hand should always be holding the fly line so there is little or no slack. If a fish strikes, the angler pulls in line while raising the rod tip. This sets the hook in the fish's mouth.  Although the basics are the same, methods and flies vary.

When To Go Fishing

Certain times of the year are best for certain species. Fishing is a pastime you can enjoy all year round.

The Fish Creek House B&B is  located near world class flyfishing at the Madison, Jefferson and Beaverhead Rivers  These  rivers fish well year-round, and some of the "better" times to fish are the early spring and fall   What makes the  Madison and Beaverhead  such famous rivesr are their diverse character  For one, the river flows at a steady pace (approximately 5 m.p.h.) making it easier for beginners to be successful. The trout do not get the chance to examine and decide if your fly is a "real" meal. The river is very accessible, easy to wade, and easily drifted just the same. It also has an excellent diverse population of large trout; rainbows, browns, and a few cutthroat and cutt-bows as well There are plenty of state fishing access sites right outside town as well to get a good angle! Some species are more active near dawn and dusk when they are feeding, while others will bite any time of the day.

Getting Your License

Fishing licenses are required in most places, which you can buy at fishing tackle stores or Conservation and Wildlife Centers. The cost varies by location. Licenses for children are usually not required.

If you want to fish on private property, be sure to get permission from the owner. Otherwise it is trespassing.

Pack Up And Head Out

If you've read this far, it may be a sign you're getting interested in fishing. Just follow the above instructions and soon you will be enjoying your favorite new hobby. Let us get you into the fish of a lifetime to make a Montana memory...