FAQ LIST
Do I need a fishing license? Yes, for anyone 12 years old or older who wishes to fish a Montana fishing license is required. If you don't already have one, you can purchase either a one-day, multi-day, or one-year license online or in-person. A one-day non-resident license should consist of the base cost $14 + Conservation License $10 + Angler Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention Pass (AISPP) $7.50, For a Total of $31.50. Non-Resident Fishing License Breakdown Season License (Total): ~$117.50 ($100 base + $10 conservation + $7.50 AIS) 5-Day License (Total): ~$73.50 ($56 base + $10 conservation + $7.50 AIS) 1-Day License (Total): ~$31.50 ($14 base + $10 conservation + $7.50 AIS) Licenses are non-refundable, so we recommend you purchase them near the time of your trip. ONLINE: https://ols.fwp.mt.gov IN-PERSON: Any local outdoor sporting goods store (Snappy's, Sportsman's, Bass Pro) or some gas stations.
What is the cancelation policy? Our goal is for everyone to have a great day on the water. We are reasonable if weather and waves arise and cause the need to reschedule or cancel a trip unexpectedly. Customers will receive a full refund if cancellation is provided 48 hours prior to the trip. Customers will also receive a full refund in case of operator cancellation due to weather or other unforeseen conditions. Contact us by phone to cancel or inquire about a cancellation. No-shows and trips canceled 48 hours prior are subject to being charged the full trip price.
What is provided vs. what to bring? Visit our "Plan Your Trip" under our ABOUT section to learn more. PROVIDED: All equipment needed for the guide will be provided. We keep our coolers stocked with cold water and soda. Coffee and pastries are available for morning guides and chips and cookies are available for afternoon guides. Feel free to bring additional snacks if you have a hungry crew. Please don't bring glass bottles or jars on the boat. WHAT TO BRING: Fishing License. Appropriate clothing. Weather conditions can change quickly on the lake please do your part by dressing in appropriate seasonal gear. Layer-up when needed. Sunscreen. Spray and scented sunscreens can get on the fishing equipment and interfere with the bite. We ask that you apply sunscreen prior to getting on the boat and use protective clothing on sun-filled days. Your best Camera and Smiles.
What kind of fish do you target? Lake Trout (Mackinaw): We fish for Lake Trout year-round and target them during all seasons using varied methods of trolling and jigging. They typically range in size from 16 to 24 inches, but people come to fish for the big ones and so do we, with hopes of catching those chance of a lifetime fish. Whitefish: Whitefish are useally targeted Mid-July through Early-October as they run up the Flathead Lake and into the Flathead River to spawn. They are a great tasting fish and many clients look forward to Whitefish season as it is a exciting way to jig fish and you can eat your catch. We strive to limit out. Unlike other charter companies we will fillet, and package your catch at no additional cost. Northern Pike: Targeted best from May through the Summer months. Large Mouth and Small Mouth Bass: Targeted best during April, May, and June. Yellow Perch: Smaller in size, but another great eating fish that is fun to catch.
Can I keep the fish I catch? The answer is mostly YES, and unlike many other charters, we will fillet and bag your fish for you at no additional cost. We often average a very high number of good eating fish on our charters. Many of our guests come specifically to catch Whitefish, which have a wonderful, white, flaky meat perfect for fish tacos and other dishes. Some species have catch limits or size requirements, known as "in the slot" that require the fish to be released to help support a healthier fishery for years to come.
What kind of boats do you use? First, let's reassure you that you will have the boat to yourself. When you book the trip, you are booking the boat for your party, and unlike other charters, we don't place multiple parties on the same boat. We have multiple fishing boats. Our primary boats are 22-24-foot NorthRiver boats that seat 6 to 8 passengers. Our boats have what is known as a 3/4 hard top, an enclosed area that allows you to stay warm or cool and out of the elements as needed. The only exception is if you have specifically requested a trip up the river or to fish for Bass and Pike, in which case we may use a 22-foot Lund Bass Boat equipped with a 250 Mercury Motor.
Where do we meet? Unlike other charters, which launch from the public docks, we have a dedicated fishing shop. During peak season (June-October) the water levels on the lake have returned to full pool and we are able to meet at our private fishing charter shop and docks. You can park across the street and use the crosswalk to come over. HOOKED ON MONTANA 5463 U.S. 93 S, Somers, MT 59932 Outside of peak season (Late October-May) your guide will contact you with information on meeting time and location. We often use the Somers Bay Fishing Launch, just a few lots down from our location.
Can you guarantee we will catch fish? Although we cannot guarantee fish, it is not often we come up empty-handed. Our guides are very experienced and knowledgeable in targeting varied fish species like lake trout, whitefish, bass, and pike. We can assure you they will work their hardest, trying a variety of methods and locations if needed. We are eager to catch fish.
Can I bring my dog? As much as we love dogs and even named ours Row, "Row, Row, Row Your Boat", we have found that dogs equate to dog hair and odors on the boat that prevent us from providing the top-notch fishing experience we are looking to create. Sorry, "Buddy," you will have to SIT this adventure out.