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Recently Booked Fishing Guides Near Helena, Mt
Most Popular Types of Trips in Helena
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More Fishing Guides Near Helena, Mt
Float your way on the water with your guide and get ready for an action-packed day of Montana fishing from one of the best guides around! On this fly-fishing trip, you'll be floating down the Missouri River to target some Brown Trout and Rainbow Trout. The Missouri River is recommended for experienced fly fishers who are looking for a challenge that will pay off with some bigger fish. The upper stretch of the Missouri River (the “Mighty Mo”) from Toston, MT, to Townsend, MT, has very calm moving water with large, easily spooked Rainbow and Brown Trout. Just the sound of the line hitting the water can scare away these fish, so be prepared to make some smooth casts. Once you get down the technique, you can expect 20-plus inch Trout. Anglers looking for an even bigger challenge can target the Common Carp, which is becoming increasingly sought after in this river. On this half or full-day excursion, your guide will row you where you need to be in a maneuverable drift boat as you take in the beautiful scenery. From here, your guide will give you expert fly-fishing tips and let you try your luck. Drift boats allow anglers to cover a larger area and access places that may be unsafe for wading. Whether you're new to fly fishing or not, your guide is eager to teach and will get some fish on your line! Regardless of where you are staying – Bozeman, Ennis, Cameron, Helena, Livingston, West Yellowstone, or Fort Smith, Montana – We have you covered. Your guide(s) will be able to pick you up at your vacation rental, lodge, hotel, campsite, or the airport. If your place of lodging is out of the way, just meet your guide at a convenient location for your day(s) on the water. Your guide will provide all the rods, reels, flies, and tippet you need to get out on the water and catch some fish. They will even have a tasty lunch for all guests. Let them know when booking if you will need to rent waders and wading boots, which he will provide at an additional cost. All you need to bring is a valid Montana fishing license. A hat, sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, and a rain jacket are recommended. Enjoy your day out on the water with your guide! **We have several listings for float trips at nearby locations in the Bozeman / Yellowstone National Park area. They want you to have the best experience possible, so if the fishing is better in another lake or river, they may recommend another location. Whether you want to stick with this spot or hear about other spots, feel free to book your float trip on this listing, and they will get in contact with you about the details!** Read More
Float your way through the water with your guide and get ready for an action-packed day of Montana fishing from one of the best guides around! On this fly-fishing trip, you'll be floating the Missouri River in a drift boat to target some Brown Trout and Rainbow Trout. The Missouri River is recommended for experienced fly fishers who are looking for a challenge that will pay off with some bigger fish. The upper stretch of the Missouri River (the “Mighty Mo”) from Toston, MT, to Townsend, MT, has very calm moving water with large, easily spooked Rainbow and Brown Trout. Just the sound of the line hitting the water can scare away these fish, so be prepared to make some smooth casts. Once you get down the technique, you can expect 20-plus inch Trout. Anglers looking for an even bigger challenge can target the Common Carp, which is becoming increasingly sought after in this river. On this full-day excursion, your guide will float you from one of the public access points. From here, your guide will give you some expert fly-fishing tips and let you try your luck. Whether you're new to fly fishing or not, your guide is eager to teach and will get some fish on your line! Regardless of where you are staying – Bozeman, Ennis, Cameron, Helena, Livingston, West Yellowstone, or Fort Smith, Montana – We have you covered. Your guide(s) will be able to pick you up at your vacation rental, lodge, hotel, campsite, or the airport. If your place of lodging is out of the way, just meet your guide at a convenient location for your day(s) on the water. Your guide will provide all the rods, reels, flies, and tippet you need to get out on the water and catch some fish. They will even have a tasty lunch for all guests. Let them know when booking if you will need to rent waders and wading boots, which they will provide at an additional cost. All you need to bring is a valid Montana fishing license. A hat, sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, and a rain jacket are recommended. Enjoy your day out on the water with your guide! ** We have several listings for wade fishing trips at nearby locations in the Bozeman / Yellowstone National Park area. They wants you to have the best experience possible, so if the fishing is better in another lake or river, they may recommend another location. Whether you want to stick with this spot or hear about other spots, feel free to book your wade fishing trip on this listing, and they will get in contact with you about the details!** Read More
Meet up on the Mighty Mo (Missouri River) for an awesome float trip chasing Monster Rainbows and Big Browns on a blue ribbon tailwater with a small local group of guides. Expect big, and very calm, moving water with large, easily spooked Rainbow and Brown Trout. Just the sound of the line hitting the water can scare away these fish, so be prepared to make some smooth casts. Once you get down the technique you can expect 20 plus inch Trout. On this half or full-day excursion, Nate will row you where you need to be in a maneuverable drift boat as you take in the beautiful scenery. From here he'll give you some of his expert fly-fishing tips and let you try your luck. Drift boats allow anglers to cover a larger area and access places that may be unsafe for wading. Whether you're new to fly fishing or not, the guides are eager to teach and will get some fish on your line! Read More
Meet up on the Mighty Mo (Missouri River) for an awesome Jet Boat trip chasing Monster Rainbows and Big Browns on a blue ribbon tailwater with your pro guide Ikaika. Expect big, and very calm, moving water which is usually pretty difficult to cover in a drift boat, but with a jet boat to motor you around you will have much more flexibility to hit all the best spots on the river (multiple times even!). This river is known for its extremely large fish and is located in the Gates of the Mountains where Lewis and Clark Rowed through themselves exploring the West. The average size fish is ~17-18in and there are really great chances at 20+ inch fish all over. On this full-day excursion, Ikaika will use his jet boat to motor upriver, shut down the motor, and row you through the premium canyon runs over and over again. This technique will allow you to access water that is too deep to wade fish and allow you to really hone in on the best runs. From here he'll give you some of his expert fly-fishing tips and let you try your luck. Whether you're new to fly fishing or not, Ikaika is eager to teach and will get some fish on your line! Read More
Jet your way on the water with your guide and get ready for an action-packed day of Montana fishing from one of the best guides around! On this fly-fishing trip, you'll be propelling your way up and down the Missouri River to target some Brown Trout and Rainbow Trout. The Missouri River is recommended for experienced fly fishers who are looking for a challenge that will pay off with some bigger fish. The upper stretch of the Missouri River (the “Mighty Mo”) from Toston, MT to Townsend, MT, has very calm moving water with large, easily spooked Rainbow and Brown Trout. Just the sound of the line hitting the water can scare away these fish, so be prepared to make some smooth casts. Once you get down the technique you can expect 20-plus inch Trout. Anglers looking for an even bigger challenge can target the Common Carp, which is becoming increasingly sought after in this river. On this full-day excursion, your U.S. Coast Guard-certified guide will use the jet boat to motor upriver, shut down the motor, and row you through the premium runs over and over again. This technique will allow you to access water that is too deep or dangerous to wade fish. From here, your guide will give you some expert fly-fishing tips and let you try your luck. Whether you're new to fly fishing or not, your guide is eager to teach and will get some fish on your line! Regardless of where you are staying – Bozeman, Ennis, Cameron, Helena, Livingston, West Yellowstone, or Fort Smith, Montana – Nate has you covered. He or another one of his guides will be able to pick you up at your vacation rental, lodge, hotel, campsite, or the airport. If your place of lodging is out of the way, just meet your guide at a convenient location for your day(s) on the water. Your guide will provide all the rods, reels, flies, and tippet you need to get out on the water and catch some fish. They will even have a tasty lunch for all guests. Let them know when booking if you will need to rent waders and wading boots, which they will provide at an additional cost. All you need to bring is a valid Montana Fishing license. A hat, sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, and a rain jacket are recommended. Enjoy your day out on the water with your guide! **We have several listings for jet boat trips at nearby locations in the Bozeman / Yellowstone National Park area. They want you to have the best experience possible, so if the fishing is better in another lake or river, they may recommend another location. Whether you want to stick with this spot or hear about other spots, feel free to book your jet boat trip on this listing, and they will get in contact with you about the details!** Read More
Jet your way on the water with one of our guides and get ready for an action-packed day of Montana fishing from one of the best guides around! On this fly-fishing trip, you'll be propelling yourself around Holter Lake to target some Brown Trout and Rainbow Trout. Upper Holter Lake is located only 20 minutes north of Helena, Montana. This beautiful lake is primarily a Rainbow Trout fishery, with Rainbows averaging 18″-20″. You can also expect to hook the occasional Brown Trout that can get up to 30"" or more! This lake is home to excellent ""Gulper"" fishing, similar to what is seen in the Hebgen and Ennis Lakes. On this full-day excursion, One of our U.S. Coast Guard-certified crew members will use the jet boat to motor you around Holter Lake and find where the fish are biting. This technique will allow you to access water that is too deep or dangerous to wade fish. From here, your guide will give you some expert fly-fishing tips and let you try your luck. Whether you're new to fly fishing or not, your guide is eager to teach and will get some fish on your line! Regardless of where you are staying – Bozeman, Ennis, Cameron, Helena, Livingston, West Yellowstone or Fort Smith, Montana – Nate has you covered. He or another one of his guides will be able to pick you up at your vacation rental, lodge, hotel, campsite, or the airport. If your place of lodging is out of the way, just meet your guide at a convenient location for your day(s) on the water. Your guide will provide all the rods, reels, flies and tippet you need to get out on the water and catch some fish. They will even have a tasty lunch for all guests. Let them know when booking if you will need to rent waders and wading boots, which they will provide at an additional cost. All you need to bring is a valid Montana Fishing license. A hat, sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, and a rain jacket are recommended. Enjoy your day out on the water with your guide! **We have several listings for jet boat trips at nearby locations in the Bozeman / Yellowstone National Park area. They want you to have the best experience possible, so if the fishing is better in another lake or river, they may recommend another location. Whether you want to stick with this spot or hear about other spots, feel free to book your jet boat trip on this listing, and they will get in contact with you about the details!** Read More
Other Trips in Helena
Float your way on the water with your guide and get ready for an action-packed day of Montana fishing from one of the best guides around! On this fly-fishing trip, you'll be floating down the Missouri River to target some Brown Trout and Rainbow Trout. The Missouri River is recommended for experienced fly fishers who are looking for a challenge that will pay off with some bigger fish. The upper stretch of the Missouri River (the “Mighty Mo”) from Toston, MT, to Townsend, MT, has very calm moving water with large, easily spooked Rainbow and Brown Trout. Just the sound of the line hitting the water can scare away these fish, so be prepared to make some smooth casts. Once you get down the technique, you can expect 20-plus inch Trout. Anglers looking for an even bigger challenge can target the Common Carp, which is becoming increasingly sought after in this river. On this half or full-day excursion, your guide will row you where you need to be in a maneuverable drift boat as you take in the beautiful scenery. From here, your guide will give you expert fly-fishing tips and let you try your luck. Drift boats allow anglers to cover a larger area and access places that may be unsafe for wading. Whether you're new to fly fishing or not, your guide is eager to teach and will get some fish on your line! Regardless of where you are staying – Bozeman, Ennis, Cameron, Helena, Livingston, West Yellowstone, or Fort Smith, Montana – We have you covered. Your guide(s) will be able to pick you up at your vacation rental, lodge, hotel, campsite, or the airport. If your place of lodging is out of the way, just meet your guide at a convenient location for your day(s) on the water. Your guide will provide all the rods, reels, flies, and tippet you need to get out on the water and catch some fish. They will even have a tasty lunch for all guests. Let them know when booking if you will need to rent waders and wading boots, which he will provide at an additional cost. All you need to bring is a valid Montana fishing license. A hat, sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, and a rain jacket are recommended. Enjoy your day out on the water with your guide! **We have several listings for float trips at nearby locations in the Bozeman / Yellowstone National Park area. They want you to have the best experience possible, so if the fishing is better in another lake or river, they may recommend another location. Whether you want to stick with this spot or hear about other spots, feel free to book your float trip on this listing, and they will get in contact with you about the details!** Read More
Float your way through the water with your guide and get ready for an action-packed day of Montana fishing from one of the best guides around! On this fly-fishing trip, you'll be floating the Missouri River in a drift boat to target some Brown Trout and Rainbow Trout. The Missouri River is recommended for experienced fly fishers who are looking for a challenge that will pay off with some bigger fish. The upper stretch of the Missouri River (the “Mighty Mo”) from Toston, MT, to Townsend, MT, has very calm moving water with large, easily spooked Rainbow and Brown Trout. Just the sound of the line hitting the water can scare away these fish, so be prepared to make some smooth casts. Once you get down the technique, you can expect 20-plus inch Trout. Anglers looking for an even bigger challenge can target the Common Carp, which is becoming increasingly sought after in this river. On this full-day excursion, your guide will float you from one of the public access points. From here, your guide will give you some expert fly-fishing tips and let you try your luck. Whether you're new to fly fishing or not, your guide is eager to teach and will get some fish on your line! Regardless of where you are staying – Bozeman, Ennis, Cameron, Helena, Livingston, West Yellowstone, or Fort Smith, Montana – We have you covered. Your guide(s) will be able to pick you up at your vacation rental, lodge, hotel, campsite, or the airport. If your place of lodging is out of the way, just meet your guide at a convenient location for your day(s) on the water. Your guide will provide all the rods, reels, flies, and tippet you need to get out on the water and catch some fish. They will even have a tasty lunch for all guests. Let them know when booking if you will need to rent waders and wading boots, which they will provide at an additional cost. All you need to bring is a valid Montana fishing license. A hat, sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, and a rain jacket are recommended. Enjoy your day out on the water with your guide! ** We have several listings for wade fishing trips at nearby locations in the Bozeman / Yellowstone National Park area. They wants you to have the best experience possible, so if the fishing is better in another lake or river, they may recommend another location. Whether you want to stick with this spot or hear about other spots, feel free to book your wade fishing trip on this listing, and they will get in contact with you about the details!** Read More
Jet your way on the water with your guide and get ready for an action-packed day of Montana fishing from one of the best guides around! On this fly-fishing trip, you'll be propelling your way up and down the Missouri River to target some Brown Trout and Rainbow Trout. The Missouri River is recommended for experienced fly fishers who are looking for a challenge that will pay off with some bigger fish. The upper stretch of the Missouri River (the “Mighty Mo”) from Toston, MT to Townsend, MT, has very calm moving water with large, easily spooked Rainbow and Brown Trout. Just the sound of the line hitting the water can scare away these fish, so be prepared to make some smooth casts. Once you get down the technique you can expect 20-plus inch Trout. Anglers looking for an even bigger challenge can target the Common Carp, which is becoming increasingly sought after in this river. On this full-day excursion, your U.S. Coast Guard-certified guide will use the jet boat to motor upriver, shut down the motor, and row you through the premium runs over and over again. This technique will allow you to access water that is too deep or dangerous to wade fish. From here, your guide will give you some expert fly-fishing tips and let you try your luck. Whether you're new to fly fishing or not, your guide is eager to teach and will get some fish on your line! Regardless of where you are staying – Bozeman, Ennis, Cameron, Helena, Livingston, West Yellowstone, or Fort Smith, Montana – Nate has you covered. He or another one of his guides will be able to pick you up at your vacation rental, lodge, hotel, campsite, or the airport. If your place of lodging is out of the way, just meet your guide at a convenient location for your day(s) on the water. Your guide will provide all the rods, reels, flies, and tippet you need to get out on the water and catch some fish. They will even have a tasty lunch for all guests. Let them know when booking if you will need to rent waders and wading boots, which they will provide at an additional cost. All you need to bring is a valid Montana Fishing license. A hat, sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, and a rain jacket are recommended. Enjoy your day out on the water with your guide! **We have several listings for jet boat trips at nearby locations in the Bozeman / Yellowstone National Park area. They want you to have the best experience possible, so if the fishing is better in another lake or river, they may recommend another location. Whether you want to stick with this spot or hear about other spots, feel free to book your jet boat trip on this listing, and they will get in contact with you about the details!** Read More
Jet your way on the water with one of our guides and get ready for an action-packed day of Montana fishing from one of the best guides around! On this fly-fishing trip, you'll be propelling yourself around Holter Lake to target some Brown Trout and Rainbow Trout. Upper Holter Lake is located only 20 minutes north of Helena, Montana. This beautiful lake is primarily a Rainbow Trout fishery, with Rainbows averaging 18″-20″. You can also expect to hook the occasional Brown Trout that can get up to 30"" or more! This lake is home to excellent ""Gulper"" fishing, similar to what is seen in the Hebgen and Ennis Lakes. On this full-day excursion, One of our U.S. Coast Guard-certified crew members will use the jet boat to motor you around Holter Lake and find where the fish are biting. This technique will allow you to access water that is too deep or dangerous to wade fish. From here, your guide will give you some expert fly-fishing tips and let you try your luck. Whether you're new to fly fishing or not, your guide is eager to teach and will get some fish on your line! Regardless of where you are staying – Bozeman, Ennis, Cameron, Helena, Livingston, West Yellowstone or Fort Smith, Montana – Nate has you covered. He or another one of his guides will be able to pick you up at your vacation rental, lodge, hotel, campsite, or the airport. If your place of lodging is out of the way, just meet your guide at a convenient location for your day(s) on the water. Your guide will provide all the rods, reels, flies and tippet you need to get out on the water and catch some fish. They will even have a tasty lunch for all guests. Let them know when booking if you will need to rent waders and wading boots, which they will provide at an additional cost. All you need to bring is a valid Montana Fishing license. A hat, sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, and a rain jacket are recommended. Enjoy your day out on the water with your guide! **We have several listings for jet boat trips at nearby locations in the Bozeman / Yellowstone National Park area. They want you to have the best experience possible, so if the fishing is better in another lake or river, they may recommend another location. Whether you want to stick with this spot or hear about other spots, feel free to book your jet boat trip on this listing, and they will get in contact with you about the details!** Read More
Meet up on the Mighty Mo (Missouri River) for an awesome float trip chasing Monster Rainbows and Big Browns on a blue ribbon tailwater with a small local group of guides. Expect big, and very calm, moving water with large, easily spooked Rainbow and Brown Trout. Just the sound of the line hitting the water can scare away these fish, so be prepared to make some smooth casts. Once you get down the technique you can expect 20 plus inch Trout. On this half or full-day excursion, Nate will row you where you need to be in a maneuverable drift boat as you take in the beautiful scenery. From here he'll give you some of his expert fly-fishing tips and let you try your luck. Drift boats allow anglers to cover a larger area and access places that may be unsafe for wading. Whether you're new to fly fishing or not, the guides are eager to teach and will get some fish on your line! Read More
Meet up on the Mighty Mo (Missouri River) for an awesome Jet Boat trip chasing Monster Rainbows and Big Browns on a blue ribbon tailwater with your pro guide Ikaika. Expect big, and very calm, moving water which is usually pretty difficult to cover in a drift boat, but with a jet boat to motor you around you will have much more flexibility to hit all the best spots on the river (multiple times even!). This river is known for its extremely large fish and is located in the Gates of the Mountains where Lewis and Clark Rowed through themselves exploring the West. The average size fish is ~17-18in and there are really great chances at 20+ inch fish all over. On this full-day excursion, Ikaika will use his jet boat to motor upriver, shut down the motor, and row you through the premium canyon runs over and over again. This technique will allow you to access water that is too deep to wade fish and allow you to really hone in on the best runs. From here he'll give you some of his expert fly-fishing tips and let you try your luck. Whether you're new to fly fishing or not, Ikaika is eager to teach and will get some fish on your line! Read More
Everything to Know About Booking a Fishing Guide in Helena
What are the best fishing trips in Helena?
Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 6 trips in Helena, and the most popular trips in the area are Holter Lake Full-Day Jet Boat guided by Nate, Missouri River Full-Day Jet Boat guided by Nate, and Missouri River Jet Boat guided by Ikaika.
Our guides in Helena are rated a 5 out of 5 based on 2639 verified reviews on Captain Experiences.
All guides on Captain Experiences are licensed, insured, and vetted by our team. You can access their reviews, click through trip photos, read bios to get to know them, and preview trip details like species, techniques, group sizes, boat specs and more.
Looking for kid friendly guides / fishing lessons in Helena? Check out our beginner and family friendly guides in Helena.
What types of fishing trips are common in Helena?
River fishing is the most popular in Helena as well as lake fishing.
The most commonly sought after species in Helena are: 1. brown trout and 2. rainbow trout.
The most common fishing techniques in Helena are fly fishing, drift fishing, and wading.
How much does a Helena fishing trip cost?
in Helena prices can range anywhere from about $590 to $750, but the average price for a half day trip in Helena is $500. The average price for a full day trip in Helena is $694.
What month is best for fishing in Helena?
The most popular season for fishing in Helena is summer, and most anglers book their trips 14 days in advance.
Do I need a Helena fishing license and what are the bag limits in Helena?
See here for more information on fishing licenses in Helena, bag limits for target species, and fishing season regulations in Helena. When in doubt, your fishing guide will always know the right rules and regulations in Helena.
What is fishing in Helena all about?
Fishing in Helena, Montana, offers anglers a blend of urban convenience and outdoor adventure in the heart of the Treasure State. Situated along the banks of the Missouri River and surrounded by numerous lakes, reservoirs, and mountain streams, Helena provides a diverse range of fishing opportunities for anglers of all levels. Whether you're casting lines in the tranquil waters of Spring Meadow Lake or floating the mighty Missouri River, fishing in Helena promises excitement and adventure amidst stunning natural landscapes.
One of the highlights of fishing in Helena is the chance to explore the iconic Missouri River, renowned for its world-class trout fisheries. The Missouri River boasts abundant populations of wild rainbow and brown trout, as well as trophy-sized walleye and bass. Anglers can enjoy casting dry flies, nymphs, and streamers to rising trout in the river's riffles and runs, while taking in the breathtaking scenery of the surrounding canyon walls and rolling hills.
In addition to the Missouri River, Helena offers access to numerous smaller streams and lakes that provide excellent fishing opportunities. From the scenic waters of Canyon Ferry Lake to the secluded mountain streams of the Helena National Forest, anglers in Helena have a wealth of options to explore. Whether you prefer fly fishing for trout, spin fishing for walleye, or simply casting lines from the shore of a peaceful lake, fishing in Helena promises memorable experiences and the chance to reconnect with nature in one of Montana's most picturesque settings.
What are the most popular months to fish in Helena?
In Helena, Montana, fishing seasons unfold amidst the picturesque landscapes of the Big Sky Country, offering anglers a chance to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the region while pursuing their passion for fishing. Spring marks the beginning of the fishing season, as the ice melts away from the area's pristine lakes and rivers, signaling the return of trout and other prized catches. Anglers eagerly flock to the shores of the Missouri River and nearby reservoirs to test their skills against feisty rainbow, brown, and cutthroat trout, whose voracious appetites are stimulated by the abundance of insect hatches.
As the days grow longer and warmer, summer ushers in prime fishing conditions in Helena, enticing fishermen and women to spend lazy days casting their lines into the clear, cool waters. From fly fishing on the renowned Blue Ribbon trout streams to trolling for trophy-sized walleye on Canyon Ferry Reservoir, there's no shortage of opportunities to reel in a memorable catch. Whether wading in the shallows, drifting along the river currents, or enjoying a leisurely day of fishing from the comfort of a boat, anglers can bask in the tranquility of Montana's wilderness while pursuing their favorite pastime.
As autumn paints the landscape with vibrant hues of gold and crimson, fishing season in Helena reaches its peak, offering anglers a final opportunity to savor the bounty of the waters before winter's chill sets in. Cooler temperatures and shorter days trigger a flurry of activity among fish species such as brown trout, which become more aggressive as they prepare for the spawning season. Whether casting a line from the banks of the Missouri River or venturing into the backcountry to explore hidden streams and alpine lakes, fishermen and women in Helena cherish every moment spent on the water, reveling in the beauty of nature and the thrill of the catch.
What types of fishing are popular in Helena?
In Helena, Montana, anglers have the opportunity to engage in various types of fishing, each offering its own unique appeal and challenges. Fly fishing is a popular choice among anglers in Helena, especially on the Missouri River and its tributaries. With abundant populations of wild rainbow and brown trout, the Missouri River provides an ideal habitat for fly fishing enthusiasts to test their skills against feisty trout amidst stunning natural surroundings. Whether you're casting dry flies to rising trout or drifting nymphs through riffles and pools, fly fishing in Helena promises an immersive experience in some of the most renowned trout waters in the American West.
For anglers seeking a more relaxed approach to fishing, lake fishing in Helena provides an excellent alternative. Nearby reservoirs such as Canyon Ferry Lake and Hauser Lake offer ample opportunities for anglers to target a variety of species, including walleye, bass, and perch. Whether you're fishing from the shore, trolling from a boat, or casting lines from a kayak, lake fishing in Helena promises peaceful moments and the chance to reel in impressive catches against the backdrop of Montana's scenic landscapes.
In addition to fly fishing and lake fishing, Helena also offers opportunities for anglers to explore spin fishing techniques on the Missouri River and its surrounding waters. Whether you're casting spinners, spoons, or crankbaits from the riverbanks or drifting lures from a boat, spin fishing in Helena provides a fun and accessible way to target trout, walleye, and other gamefish. With its diverse fishing options and stunning natural landscapes, Helena is a paradise for anglers looking to enjoy the thrill of fishing in the heart of Montana's wilderness.
What species are popular in Helena?
In Helena, Montana, anglers have a diverse range of fishing species to target, making it a haven for both seasoned veterans and novice fishermen alike. The iconic Missouri River, renowned as a Blue Ribbon trout stream, is home to a thriving population of rainbow, brown, and cutthroat trout, offering anglers ample opportunities to test their skills against these prized catches. Whether casting dry flies, nymphs, or streamers, fishermen and women can enjoy challenging and rewarding experiences while angling in the crystal-clear waters of the Missouri.
Beyond the Missouri River, Helena boasts a variety of other fishing opportunities, each with its own unique appeal. Canyon Ferry Reservoir, located just a short drive from the city, provides excellent fishing for species such as walleye, perch, and rainbow trout. Anglers can explore the reservoir's expansive waters by boat or from the shoreline, enjoying the scenic views of the surrounding mountains as they wait for their next big catch.
For those seeking a more adventurous angling experience, Helena offers access to remote mountain streams and alpine lakes teeming with native trout species. From brook trout in the high-country streams to cutthroat trout in the pristine mountain lakes, fishermen and women can escape the crowds and immerse themselves in the solitude of Montana's wilderness while pursuing their passion for fishing. Whether casting a line in the heart of the city or venturing into the backcountry, Helena provides a wealth of fishing opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels.
What are the best places to fish in Helena?
In Helena, Montana, anglers have access to some of the best fishing spots in the region, thanks to the town's prime location near the Missouri River and its surrounding waters. One standout destination for fishing in Helena is the Missouri River itself, renowned for its world-class trout fisheries. The Missouri River offers abundant opportunities to catch wild rainbow and brown trout, as well as trophy-sized walleye and bass. Anglers can enjoy casting lines from the riverbanks or floating downstream in a drift boat, surrounded by the breathtaking scenery of the surrounding canyon walls and rolling hills.
Another must-visit location for fishing in Helena is Canyon Ferry Lake, a sprawling reservoir located just a short drive from town. Canyon Ferry Lake provides excellent fishing opportunities for a variety of species, including walleye, bass, and perch. Anglers can explore the lake's numerous coves and bays, casting lines from the shore or trolling from a boat, while soaking in the natural beauty of the surrounding Helena National Forest.
Additionally, Helena offers access to numerous smaller streams and lakes that provide excellent fishing opportunities. From the scenic waters of Hauser Lake to the secluded mountain streams of the Helena National Forest, anglers in Helena have a wealth of options to explore. Whether you prefer fly fishing for trout, spin fishing for walleye, or simply casting lines from the shore of a peaceful lake, fishing in Helena promises memorable experiences and the chance to reconnect with nature in one of Montana's most picturesque settings.
Other things to do in Helena
In Helena, Montana, the adventure extends far beyond the waters, offering a plethora of activities to suit every interest and age group. Nature enthusiasts can lace up their hiking boots and explore the extensive network of trails that wind through the surrounding mountains and forests. From leisurely strolls along scenic riverbanks to challenging hikes to panoramic viewpoints, there's a trail for every level of fitness and ambition. Along the way, hikers may encounter diverse wildlife, including deer, elk, and even the occasional bear, adding an extra element of excitement to their outdoor adventures.
For history buffs and culture seekers, Helena presents a treasure trove of landmarks and attractions to explore. The city's historic downtown district boasts beautifully preserved architecture, including the iconic State Capitol building and the grandiose Cathedral of St. Helena. Visitors can delve into the rich heritage of the region at the Montana Historical Society Museum, which showcases exhibits on everything from Native American history to the state's mining and pioneer era. Additionally, art galleries, theaters, and cultural events abound, offering ample opportunities to immerse oneself in the vibrant arts scene of Helena.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find no shortage of adrenaline-pumping activities to enjoy in Helena's rugged terrain. From mountain biking along scenic trails to rock climbing in the limestone cliffs of the nearby Elkhorn Mountains, there's an adventure waiting around every corner. During the winter months, the surrounding mountains transform into a playground for snow sports enthusiasts, with opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling abound. Whether exploring the great outdoors, delving into the region's rich history, or seeking thrills and excitement, Helena offers endless opportunities for memorable experiences and adventures.
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