Hi all,
Sad to say, this is our final trip update for what has been an incredible 10-day fly fishing adventure through some of Montana and Yellowstone’s most iconic waters. From casting on the Madison River to hiking into the remote beauty of Slough Creek, this trip has been full of unforgettable moments, wild landscapes, and a whole lot of trout.
Our final day was all about goodbyes, early airport shuttles, and one last chance to soak it all in. After a week and a half of early mornings and long days on the water, we wrapped things up in style with a well-earned steak dinner—an awesome way to celebrate everything the group accomplished together. The meal itself felt like a victory lap: plates piled high with steak sandwiches, roasted corn, and plenty of seconds for anyone who wanted them. Around the table, conversations bounced from recounting favorite fish to joking about the little mishaps that now feel like part of the fun—missed hooksets, tangled lines, and campfire debates about which guide told the tallest fishing tale. The laughter around that table was the perfect send-off.
To close out the trip, the crew rolled up their sleeves for a meaningful service project on the Madison River. Working alongside local conservation partners, they got hands-on experience studying river flows, collecting aquatic insects, and learning how these tiny organisms reveal the overall health of the ecosystem. Some campers crouched ankle-deep in the river, carefully sifting through rocks to find stonefly nymphs, while others took measurements and compared samples with data from previous years. It was a rare chance to see how science and stewardship play a direct role in protecting the rivers we love to fish. More than one camper said they’d never look at a river the same way again.
But what stood out most wasn’t just the scenery or the fish—it was watching this group come together. Over the course of the trip, we saw friendships form, confidence grow, and everyone rise to the challenge of new experiences. Whether it was landing their first cutthroat, hiking into the backcountry, or sharing stories around the campfire, these moments created bonds that will last far beyond Montana.
It’s hard to say goodbye, but we’re heading home with full hearts, tired legs, and memories we’ll never forget.
Tight lines,
Zach, Coleman, Max, and Watson
