The perfect introduction to fly fishing paradise
With the founding of Yellowstone in 1872, the National Park Service was born. Since then Yellowstone and its gateway to the North Bozeman, MT have become meccas for fly fishermen, making them the perfect setting for one of LFFE’s truly life-changing adventures. After arriving in Bozeman, MT we will begin exploring all Yellowstone has to offer. The trip consists of two unique backcountry sections where 3 different native species Westslope Cutthroat, Yellowstone Cutthroat, and Arctic Grayling all eagerly rise eagerly to dry flies. Between our backcountry trips, you will have time to fish some of America's most famous fly fishing rivers including the Madison, Gardner, and picturesque Lamar. When we are not catching trout, you will be amazed by the eruption of Old Faithful, the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, and encounters with the park’s unique wildlife. Unfortunately, all good things must come to an end, but not before we head back toward Bozeman, where we will cap off our trip with a float fishing trip down the Yellowstone River.
Upcoming Trips
| Dates | Cost | Arrive/Depart Location |
|---|---|---|
| Jul 07 - Jul 20, 2023Jul 22 - Aug 04, 2023 | $4,295 |
Bozeman, MT |
- Ages
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Entering 7th GradeEntering 8th GradeEntering 9th GradeEntering 10th Grade
- Community Service
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5 Hours
- What to Bring
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We have put together a list of all that you will need for a successful and comfortable expedition. We offer a rental program for most of the big ticket items like fly rods, reels, sleeping bags, etc.. If you are already enrolled, you can rent gear by logging into your account at: https://lillard.campintouch.com/v2/login/login.aspx?ReturnUrl=%2f and navigating to Forms & Documents —> Rental Options.
- Fish some of America’s most famous rivers, including the Madison, Gardner, and Lamar
- Catch the Yellowstone Grand Slam (Yellowstone Cutthroat, Snake River Cutthroat, Westslope Cutthroat, and Artic Grayling)
- Float fish the productive and scenic waters of the Yellowstone River.
- Backpack into Slough Creek, one of the Lower 48's premier backcountry rivers.
- Take in the natural beauty of Yellowstone’s unique ecosystem
- Watch as Old Faithful shoots boiling water over 100ft into the air
- Camp out under a blanket of stars
- Enjoy great food while reliving your adventure with friends around the campfire.
Day 1-3
After arriving in Bozeman, MT we will spend the night getting to know each other before heading into Yellowstone the next morning. Excited about the days ahead we we will be up early to make our way to our campsite along the banks of the Madison River, but not before stoping by Old Faithful to watch the iconic geyser erupt. After setting up camp you will spend two days working 1 on 1 with your guides developing fly fishing skills on the Madison River.
Day 4-6
Using what we learned we will head into our first backcountry section where time between catching trout will be spent learning backcountry camping skills, and backpacking through the scenic Yellowstone wilderness.
Day 7-8
After showers and setting up camp at Mammoth Hot Springs we will have plenty of time to walk down to the Gardner River in search of its large trout brown, rainbow, and cutthroat trout.
Day 9-13
Using all we have learned about fly fishing and backpacking we will spend four days catching native Yellowstone Cutthroat in the pristine and picturesque Lamar Valley section of the park. After exiting the backcountry we will head back towards Bozeman for another round of showers and some much-deserved pizza.
Day 14
Nothing is more synonymous with western fly fishing than float fishing down the Yellowstone River. Hooking trout as you float through the iconic Paradise Valley is an experience you will never forget.
Day 14
Our final day together will be spent giving back to the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Our service project will provide one last bonding experience for our group with the ultimate goal of inspiring an appreciation for the importance of conservation and stewardship.
Species
- Yellowstone Cutthroat (Native)
- Snake River Cutthroat (Native)
- Westslope Cutthroat (Native)
- Arctic Grayling (Native)
- Brown Trout (Wild)
- Rainbow Trout (Wild)
- Brook Trout (Wild)
Water
- Madison River
- Snake River
- Gardner River
- Lamar River
- Slough Creek
- Yellowstone backcountry streams and lakes
How, where, and when, do participants meet their group?
The Yellowstone Adventure begins and ends at the Bozeman, MT Airport. Participants can fly to/from the airport on arrival/departure day or be dropped off/picked up by a parent/guardian. For participants flying to and from the trip, you may look for flights that arrive at any time on the first day of the trip. On the last day of the trip flights that depart before 2 pm are ideal. Bozeman airport is small and easy to navigate. Planes unload on the tarmac and your trip leader will be there waiting for you as you walk into the terminal. On departure day your trip leaders will help you get checked in and wait with the group until the last participant's flight leaves the ground.
Do I need to have fly fishing experience?
Our Adventures are made up of students ranging in experience from total beginner to expert. Regardless of your skil level, your guides along with a variety of water fished will make you a more confident and independent angler.
Do I need my own fishing equipment?
Students are responsible for their own fly rod, reel, line, and a few other personal fishing items. Please contact us for a full packing list. Don’t have your own gear? Not a problem. We have top quality Orvis rods and reels available to rent.
What other equipment will I need?
We will send you a full packing list if you are interested in signing up for one of our Adventure Academies. Group gear such as tents, stoves, etc is all provided by LFFE. Personal gear such as sleeping bags and backpacks are all available to rent.
Our 15-year-old son just finished his second Yellowstone Expedition. He enjoyed the first trip so much he wanted to do it again. I can’t imagine a better experience for a teenage outdoorsman and fly fisherman. Each trip has fueled his passion for and knowledge of fishing. We are so grateful to have discovered Lillard - there is nothing else out there like it!
