iFishiBelong has prepared an event checklist containing links to all necessary items. This checklist will help ensure everyone is well-prepared and informed for the event. Print the checklist HERE.
Thank you for registering for the Montana iFishiBelong DIY Fishing event. This is an inclusive event where like-minded individuals can connect, empower each other, and have fun. The registration fee is instrumental in offsetting the costs associated with travel logistics, online platforms, the extensive hours dedicated to research, meticulous preparation, and the ongoing correspondence that happens behind the scenes to ensure a seamless experience for all participants.
Participants head out to fish on their own each day, with a variety of accommodation options to choose from. The event occurs in West Yellowstone, Montana, from September 5th to 7th, 2025.
DISCLAIMER: The Montana Registrant website is not intended to be your only source of information. Please also refer to the MT Facebook Group and conduct your own online research to ensure you have the most complete and up-to-date details.
Event Questions
Please utilize this webpage and the Montana Facebook Group as most of your questions will be answered. Otherwise, email [email protected].
Facebook Group
Join the Facebook Group to network with fellow attendees, seek advice, and exchange travel and event photos/videos. Co-hosts will share further event details there. Join the Facebook Group HERE.
Event Hosts
Live Q&A Session
- Tuesday, 7/15/25 at 6 pm MT. Register HERE.
Dates
September 5th – 7th, 2025
Check-In Time
Follow your lodging and campground check-in times. Refer to the weekend schedule for meet-up times.
Location
The iFishiBelong Montana DIY fishing event offers a unique experience, distinct from our other locations. While there isn’t a centralized campground due to the popularity of West Yellowstone as a global fishing destination, many attendees opt for various hotels instead of bringing camping equipment.
Drawing from our experiences over the past couple of years, we’ve refined our approach for an enhanced event. On Friday, we’re coordinating a social fishing session combined with educational elements, pending permit approvals. We’ll have a potluck lunch on the river and end with an evening of live music, food and community at the Wretched Mess Art and Fly Fishing Festival. Saturday we encourage everyone to come to the Wretched Mess Festival where we’ll have an iFishiBelong booth to pick-up registration and connect. Our social evening gathering will be listening to music at the festival.
What's Included
- This exclusive webpage, created specifically for registered Montana participants, includes essential event logistics, packing tips, fishing details, and more.
- iFishiBelong Cling Magnet included (a $20 value)
- Interactive Live Q&A Session on Tuesday, 7/15/25 at 6 PM MT –
- Register HERE
- Online access to the Summer Trout Fishing Techniques pre-recorded course
- 1-hour donation-based workshop: MT Fall Fishing Techniques on 9/5/25
- Register HERE
- Nightly social gatherings to connect with fellow anglers
- Permit secured for a community social fishing day on Friday, 9/5/25
- Curated location and fishing research provided for easy participant reference
- Dedicated co-hosts focused on education, building community, and creating a fun experience
- Support for local businesses and a commitment to highlighting women and underrepresented owners, guides, and creators in the region
What's Not Included
- Transportation to and from West Yellowstone
- Accommodation/Camping
- Meal Arrangements
- Fishing Gear – Equipment Available to Borrow
- 1hr Donation-Based “MT Fall Fishing Techniques” Workshop on 9/5/25
- Register HERE
- Montana Fishing License
- Guided Fishing Opportunities
Tentative Weekend Schedule
Each day is centered on fishing adventures, concluding with evening social time. We urge individuals to engage with each other in the Facebook Group to form fishing friendships and coordinate weekend adventures. Please note this schedule is tentative and will be finalized the week before the event.
- Thursday 9/4/25
- Some Arrive and DIY Fish
- Friday 9/5/25
- 9:00 am – 10:00 am – Donation-Based Education
- Register HERE
- 10:00 am – 11:00 am – Registration Pick-Up at the Social Fishing Location
- 10:00 am – 2:00 pm Organized Social Fishing and Potluck Lunch
- 2:00 pm – 7:00 pm – The Wretched Mess Festival in West Yellowstone MT
- 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm – Live Music with Zach Nytomt Band from Island Park, ID
- 9:00 am – 10:00 am – Donation-Based Education
- Saturday, 9/6/25 –
- DIY Fishing, Exploring and Festival Time
- 10:00 am – 5:00 pm –The Wretched Mess Festival in West Yellowstone MT
- 10:00 am – 5:00 pm – Registration Pick-Up at the iFishiBelong Booth at Wretched Mess
- 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm – Live Music with North Fork Crossing from Bozeman, MT
- Sunday 9/7/25
- DIY Fishing on Own and Depart
Friday Social Fishing Day
We’re in the process of obtaining a permit from the Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife, and Parks for a social fishing day at the 3 Dollar Bridge on the Madison River. Join us on Friday, 9/5/25, for a fun and relaxed day on the water!
The day will kick off at 9:00 AM with a 1-hour, donation-based “Fall Fishing Techniques” workshop led by Heather, focused on fishing the Madison River.
This is a casual, DIY fishing day—not guided—so come ready to explore, connect, and enjoy the river at your own pace. Let’s share the riverbanks with both new and familiar faces. Say hello, swap tips, and lend a hand when someone’s got a fish on!
Friday 9/5/25 – 3 Dollar Bridge on the Madison River
- 9:00 am – Fall Fishing Techniques
- 10:00 am – Social Fishing at 3 Dollar Bridge on the Madison River
- 1:00 pm – Riverside Potluck at the 3 Dollar Bridge Picnic Shelter
The Wretched Mess Festival
We’ve intentionally scheduled our Montana event to coincide with the Wretched Mess Fly Fishing and Art Festival, happening the afternoon and evening of Friday, 9/5/25, and all day on Saturday, 9/6/25.
This event offers a unique opportunity for participants to connect, learn from industry experts, and come together in celebration of fly fishing and art. The Wretched Mess will feature a vibrant community atmosphere with educational clinics, delicious food, refreshing beer, and live music. Come say hi at the iFishiBelong booth outside by the casting pond
Camping
There are numerous camping, cabin, and RV choices near West Yellowstone. We’ve highlighted several spots to assist you in locating accommodation. We recognize that some campgrounds may be more distant from West Yellowstone than others. We suggest choosing a site close to prime fishing spots and driving in for evening events. With the extended daylight, many participants are coordinating carpool arrangements within the Facebook Group.
Most anglers stayed at the Beaver Creek Campground in 2024 and have plans to stay there again in 2025.
Lodging
There are several lodging options in and around West Yellowstone. Airbnb, VRBO, Hotels/Motels, Cabin Rentals, etc. Please post in the Facebook Group if you are looking for a roommate or want to share lodging expenses.
Please consider using Roam Property Management, a women-owned business in West Yellowstone. Click HERE.
Food
You’re responsible for arranging your meals. On Friday afternoon, we’ll gather at 3 Dollar Bridge for a potluck lunch. Moreover, there are numerous local grocery stores, restaurants, and bars nearby for your convenience. There will also be food and beverages for purchase at the Wretched Mess Fly Fishing and Art Festival.
Education Opportunities
- Live Q&A Session: Tuesday, 7/15/25 at 6pm MT
- Register HERE
- Dive into event logistics and gain valuable fishing information.
- Engage on Facebook:
- Join the Montana Facebook Group
- Pose your questions; our co-hosts and community members will help answer the questions.
- Co-Host Guidance:
- Our co-hosts will be available throughout the event.
- Get answers on topics like knots, leaders, flies, and prime fishing locations.
- In-Person Workshop Opportunity: Register Here
- Participate in the Donation-Based “Fall Fishing Techniques” Workshop on Friday, 9/5/25.
- Duration: 1 hour.
We’re here to help, so don’t hesitate to ask!
Area Resources
Exploring West Yellowstone, Montana, provides both a gateway to the majestic wonders of Yellowstone National Park and renowned fly fishing opportunities, set against a backdrop of stunning natural vistas and plentiful wildlife sightings.
- Fish MT River Map –
- Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Park Interactive Map –
- https://fwp.mt.gov/gis/maps/fishingGuide/
- The Locals Guide to West Yellowstone
- https://www.yellowstonescenictours.biz/learnmore/2023/3/24/the-locals-guide-to-west-yellowstone
- Yellowstone’s West Entrance: Everything You Need to Know
- Quick and Easy Guide to Yellowstone’s 5 Entrances
- Click HERE
Fishing
West Yellowstone, famous for fishing, is located near the headwaters of the Madison, Gallatin, and Henry’s Fork of the Snake River.
Fall is a prime time for fly fishing near West Yellowstone, with the Madison River, Henry’s Fork, and surrounding waters offering incredible opportunities. The Madison, known for its strong run of migrating brown trout from Hebgen Lake, sees aggressive fish chasing streamers and large nymphs. Henry’s Fork, especially in sections like the Railroad Ranch, offers technical dry fly fishing with lingering hatches of blue-winged olives and mahogany duns. Cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and stunning autumn colors make this season one of the most rewarding times to fish these legendary waters.
Water Safety
Please be prepared for water conditions to change quickly. We will keep you all updated on the conditions to keep everyone safe. This DIY fishing weekend will happen rain or shine. Go to the Real-Time Yellowstone National Park Stream Flow Data.
DIY Fishing
Please mark your calendars for the Live Q&A Session on July 15th, at 6 pm MT, where we’ll explore weekend logistics and share local fishing information. The Montana fishing event requires some preparation and proactive involvement. To ensure participants are well-informed, each registrant will be granted access to a dedicated event webpage designed for all registrants. This resource will assist you in organizing and planning your trip effectively.
Hire a fishing Guide
We recognize that not everyone wants to DIY Fish and may prefer the expertise of a fishing guide. In our commitment to showcasing local businesses and guides, we’re pleased to provide a list of area guides who have registered on the Fish and Hang website, demonstrating their support and alignment with the iFishiBelong mission.
- Alice Owsley – Riverside Anglers Inc.
- Kara Tripp – Damsel Fly Fishing
- Katherine Robinson – Blue Ribbon Flies
Fly Shops
We’re excited and grateful to have Big Sky Anglers as a sponsor for this event! Be sure to stop by their shop to pick up any last-minute gear or even book a guided trip. There are also several other great fly shops in the area that have always treated our community well. Here are a few additional local favorites worth checking out!
Fishing License
Multiple fishing licenses might be required based on where you are fishing. No state fishing license is required in Yellowstone National Park, but you need a Yellowstone Park Fishing Permit. The Madison River is in Montana, and the Henry’s Fork is in Idaho, and there are lots of fishing options in both states. We have provided links for the specific licenses and permits below.
If fishing in Yellowstone National Park, fishing permits are available at all ranger stations, visitor centers, and Yellowstone Park General Stores. Fishing permits are also available at many businesses in West Yellowstone and the Fly Shops.
Fish Species
These are the fish species tha you might encounter while fishing in the West Yellowstone Montana area.
Brook Trout
Brown Trout
Grayling
Rainbow Trout
Westslope Cutthroat
Whitefish
Yellowstone Cutthroat
DIY Fishing Blogs
- Fishing Yellowstone in June Blog –
- Fishing Yellowstone Park –
- https://www.montanaangler.com/fly-fishing-yellowstone-park
- Insiders Guide to Angling in West Yellowstone –
Borrow Equipment
Each angler is expected to bring their equipment and flies. We have rod/reel setups, boots, and waders available for borrowing on a first-come, first-served basis. Please fill out the “Borrowed Equipment” form by August 25th, 2025 if you wish to borrow equipment. Click HERE.
Fishing Yellowstone
Felt Sole Boots are prohibited
With over 2500 miles of rivers and streams, as well as numerous lakes, Yellowstone waters present an excellent opportunity for the recreational angler.
Regulations and Fishing Regions – https://www.nps.gov/yell/planyourvisit/fishing.htm
Yellowstone Fishing License
Anglers 16 years of age or older must be in possession of a valid Yellowstone National Park fishing pass to fish in the park. State fishing licenses are not valid and are not required.
Permits can be purchased at Park Visitor Centers or at Fly Shops near the park. Click HERE for more information.
Clothing
Weather in our area can be unpredictable, so plan for anything. Temperatures range from the 40s to the 80s, depending on the day. Be prepared with shedable layers to add or shed throughout the day. Don’t forget a rain jacket!!
Fishing Equipment
- Fly Rods – 4wt – 6wt.
- Rod Length – Average 9’.
- Trout Sepy – 2wt – 4wt
- Fly Lines – Typical Floating Fly Lines
- Leader – 9’ 4x – 4x
- Tippet Spools – 3x – 6x
Montana and Area Flies
In September, the Montana hatch scene begins to shift from summer to fall, with prolific Blue-Winged Olive (BWO) and Mahogany Dun mayfly hatches, along with lingering terrestrials like hoppers, ants, and beetles. Anglers often find success using BWO dries and emergers, Parachute Adams, Pheasant Tails, and foam hopper patterns, especially during warm afternoons and overcast days.
Yellowstone Hatch Chart
Women Guide Top 10 Area Flies
- Double Articulated green dungeon
- Silver lightning bug
- Henry’s Fork Salmon Fly
- Peacock Perdigon
- Tan Sculpzilla
- Olive Single Screamer
- Silver and black sparkle minnow
- Yellow Spot
- Tan SweetGrass Hopper
- Tan and Pink Water Walker
- Pats Rubber Leg – Black
- Pats Rubber Leg – Coffee
- Soft hackle Pheasant Tail
- TJ Hooker
- Pine Squirrel Leech – Black
- True Salmonfly Fly
- Firestarter
- Black Zebra Midge with Copper Bead and Ribbing
- PMD Pullover
- Shop Vac
- Tungsten Zebra Midge – Any Color
- Lightning Bug – Pearl, Gold, Black, Purple
- Rubber Legs – Black, Coffee/Black, Tan/Coffee, Green/Coffee
- Caddis Emergers
- Elk Hair Caddis – Tan, Green, Purple
- Parachute Adams – Purple, Grey
- 3$ Dip – Any Color
- Bead Head Caddis Larva
- Perdigons – Any Color
- Salmon Fly
- Sparkle Dunn- BWO or PMD #14-16
- Iron X Caddis- Tan, #14-16
- Iris Caddis- #14-16
- Spent Partridge Caddis- #14-16
- Bubble Back Caddis- #14-16
- Razorback Salmon Fly- #10-12
- Pats Rubber Legs- #8-10
- Olive Bullet Quill- #16-18
- Jig Duracell- #14-16
- CDC Pheasant Tail- #14-18
- Henry’s Fork Foam Stone Salmon Fly
- Henry’s Fork Foam Golden Stone
- Mercers Missing Link Caddis
- Green Drake Parachute
- Craig Mathews – Green Drake Foam Spinner
- Flav Spinner
- Film Critic – PMD, Flav and Drakes
- Antonio’s Adult – PMD and Large Size as Flav
- A Ruberleg! Any color, but I prefer weightless to fish tighter to the banks.
- Split Flag PMD
- Parachute Elk Hair Caddis
- Pat’s Rubberleg
- Chubby Chernobyl
- Zebra Midge
- Mercury Baetis
- Beadhead Prince Nymph
- Lime Trude
- Pheasant Flash
- Foamwing Parachute Adams
- BH Caddis Larva
Leader Examples
Please refer to the Montana Q&A for additional leader examples.
Local Fisheries
Below are some of the notable fishing rivers you can explore when visiting the West Yellowstone region.
Safety Policy
For the safety of all, if you show any signs of illness or have a positive covid test result, kindly remain at home. Stay informed about the weather, dress for the occasion, and stay alert to any shifts in water conditions.
Helpful Links
Here are a few links to rent bear spray, learn how to use it, and travel in the area with your pets.
Weekend Disclaimer
We aim for a memorable weekend, emphasizing community for everyone present. Educational resources will be available, and connections among anglers encouraged. We expect a drama-free setting and clarify that while co-hosts will be around, the weekend is self-guided. Attendees can coordinate fishing plans with other participants via the Facebook Group. This is not an exclusive women’s weekend. Partners, friends, and family are encouraged to join.
Questions
Please utilize this webpage and the Montana Facebook Group as most of your questions will answered. Otherwise email [email protected].
