Master the Art of Fly Fishing at the Flathead River of Glacier National Park
Our Full-Day Fly Fishing School offers an immersive learning experience that transforms complete beginners into confident anglers in just one day.
What to Expect
Our commitment to creating successful anglers means every aspect of your day is carefully planned.
We offer comprehensive instruction that guides novice anglers to fishing success. Our thoughtfully crafted full-day program combines foundational learning on the water with hands-on progressions on the beautiful waters bordering Glacier National Park.
Each session begins with a thorough equipment overview and safety briefing, followed by detailed instruction on reading water conditions and selecting appropriate flies. Students then practice casting techniques in a controlled environment before moving to live fishing situations on the Flathead River.
- Beginner-friendly instruction
- Expert guides with years of teaching experience
- Professional equipment and lunch included
Full-Day Fishing School
River Miles
8-10 miles
Age Limits
Age 6+ depending upon weather & river conditions
Trip Duration: 6-8 hours
Meeting Times
8:00 am (Resort check-in time)
Available Dates
Late June through October
Fishing License
All fly fishing trips require the purchase of a Montana fishing license.
This can be purchased at Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks website or Super 1 and Smith’s in Columbia Falls or at Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks website.
Rates
$650.00 per boat (up to 2 people)
Prices do not include 8% service fee or gratuity
Explore the Ecology of the Flathead River
The Flathead River is primarily a cutthroat-specific fishery, making it home to some of Montana’s most prized native westslope cutthroat trout populations.
During our fishing school, you’ll discover why the Flathead River provides exceptional conditions for learning to catch native Westslope Cutthroat Trout.
This river’s ecosystem creates an ideal learning environment that beginners love for its stunning beauty and forgiving nature, while seasoned anglers are drawn to the exceptional cutthroat fishing and prolific mayfly hatches. These pristine waters offer the perfect combination of accessible fishing and world-class trout habitat.
This river flows through one of the continent’s most pristine ecosystems, creating ideal learning opportunities:
- Expansive wilderness setting: Fish within thousands of square miles of protected wilderness and national park lands
- Consistent water quality: Cold mountain runoff creates stable fishing conditions throughout our season
- Reliable surface action: Cutthroat readily rise to dry flies, giving beginners immediate success with proper technique
- Abundant insect life: Rich aquatic insect populations provide consistent feeding opportunities and excellent hatch-matching practice
What You’ll Learn at Fly Fishing School
You’ll learn the fundamentals to prepare you to fish independently on other Montana waters. You’ll understand how to select appropriate equipment, choose the right flies for conditions, and follow proper etiquette wherever you decide to fish next.
Fly Fishing Foundations
We begin each fishing school with essential fundamentals that every successful angler needs to know. Our sessions cover equipment selection and care, the critical skill of “reading the water” to identify where fish are likely to be, understanding fly patterns and when to use them, and proper river etiquette that respects both the environment and fellow anglers.
Hands-On Casting Practice
Before we head to the river, beginners will get practice with casting either on our resort pond or calm river sections. Our instructors work individually with each student to develop proper technique, ensuring everyone feels confident before we begin chasing fish.
Fly Fishing Lessons That Create Lasting Memories
Complete Novices
Never held a fly rod? Our fishing for beginners program starts with absolute basics, ensuring no one feels overwhelmed or left behind.
Glacier Park Visitors
Enhance your Montana experience with fly fishing lessons that unlock access to world-class waters and create skills you’ll use for a lifetime.
Adventure-Seeking Families
Create unforgettable memories together on Montana’s pristine waters. Our family-friendly instruction ensures everyone from kids to grandparents can enjoy the thrill of fly fishing.
Corporate & Team Building Groups
Strengthen bonds away from the boardroom. Our group lessons offer a unique team-building experience that combines skill development with Montana’s stunning backcountry.
Celebration Parties
Make your bachelor/bachelorette party, birthday, or special occasion truly memorable with a guided fly fishing adventure that’s equal parts excitement and relaxation.
Vacation Skill-Builders
Visitors to Glacier National Park who want to add a new dimension to their outdoor adventures will find our fly fishing lessons create lasting memories and practical skills.
Ready to Attend Fly Fishing School on the Flathead River?
Fill out the form below, and our experienced fishing instructors will help you prepare for your day on the water. We typically respond within one business day to ensure you get personalized attention and the most up-to-date information about our fishing for beginners program.
FAQs About Fly Fishing School with Great Northern Resort
Fly fishing uses lightweight artificial flies instead of bait or lures, and it requires a different casting technique where you cast the weight of the line rather than a heavy lure. It’s considered more challenging but also more rewarding!
Our fishing school accommodates up to 2 people per boat with one dedicated instructor, ensuring personalized attention for each student.
No prior fishing experience is required. Our full-day fishing school is designed for complete beginners.
Yes, all fly fishing trips require a valid Montana fishing license. You can purchase one online at the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks website, or locally at Super 1 and Smith’s grocery stores in Columbia Falls.