Fish Montana
Welcome to the Third West Yellowstone, Montana Fishing Weekend! Hosted by iFishiBelong, this gathering is open to anglers of every skill level, whether you’re a seasoned pro or picking up a rod for the very first time. Our goal is simple: to create an inclusive space where you can connect, learn, and have fun on the water.
With our DIY weekend format, you’ll have the freedom to explore and fish on your own during the day, paired with opportunities to come together throughout the weekend. We’ve built in a social fishing day, educational sessions, and group gatherings designed to help you meet fellow anglers, build skills, and share your fishing stories.
You’ll handle your travel, lodging, and meals, but whether you choose to camp under the stars, settle into a cabin or hotel, or hire a guide, we provide resources to fit a variety of budgets and preferences.
For any questions or if you’d like to borrow equipment, reach out to us at [email protected]. We look forward to sharing this fishing adventure with you!
Register for the Weekend
Location
West Yellowstone, Montana
Dates
September 5th to 7th, 2025
Hosts
Live Q&A Session
- See the Q&A Session Slidedeck HERE
Montana Co-Hosts
all are welcomed
The Montana iFishiBelong fishing weekend is open to everyone, not just women or fly-fishing enthusiasts. The iFishiBelong mission is to advocate for all species, fishing techniques, and people, with a focus on creating a welcoming environment where diversity is celebrated and discrimination is not tolerated.
iFishiBelong’s fishing events allow attendees to explore, engage in DIY fishing, and participate in social gatherings. These events also serve as a platform to highlight local businesses and guides, building community and support.
Do it Yourself (DIY) Fishing
Please note that our DIY Fishing events are truly Do It Yourself. As an angler, you are responsible for preparation and planning before the trip. While iFishiBelong and our event co-hosts have provided helpful resources, links, and essential information, it is the registrant’s responsibility to review all emails and explore the event website thoroughly.
The more prepared you are before arrival, the better. Knowing the area, understanding the logistics, and reviewing all the provided materials will make your experience more enjoyable and successful.
We also strongly encourage all participants to connect in advance through the event’s Facebook Group or WhatsApp MT Angler Connection Group to coordinate fishing plans with fellow registered anglers. This is a non-guided event, and it is each angler’s responsibility to make their own arrangements and find others to fish with.
Why Join?
Community
iFishiBelong celebrates community through the DIY focused fishing events, uniting individuals who are seeking connection, empowerment and fun!
Fishing
iFishiBelong selects locations tailed for the DIY angler. These spots offer walk-and-wade options on public waters.
Education
iFishiBelong offers accessible education via Live Q&A, engaged Facebook interactions, in-person workshops, and on and off water involvement.
Affordability
iFishiBelong is committed to providing accessible opportunities for anglers of varying financial means by organizing various cost-effective events.
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 Montana Facebook Group or the Montana Angler Connection WhatsApp Channel 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 to 10:00 am – Donation-Based Education
- Register HERE
- 10:00 am to 11:00 am – Registration Packet Pick-Up at 3 Dollar Bridge on the Madison River
- 10:00 am to 2:00 pm Organized Social Fishing and Potluck Lunch
- 1:30 pm – Potluck at 3 Dollar Bridge
- 2:00 pm to 7:00 pm – The Wretched Mess Festival in West Yellowstone MT
- 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm – Registration Packet Pick-up at the iFishiBelong Booth at the Wretched Mess Festival
- 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm – Live Music with Zach Nytomt Band from Island Park, ID
- 9:00 am to 10:00 am – Donation-Based Education
- Saturday, 9/6/25 –
- DIY Fishing, Exploring and Festival Time
- 10:00 am to 5:00 pm –The Wretched Mess Festival in West Yellowstone MT
- 10:00 am to 5:00 pm – Registration Packet Pick-Up at the iFishiBelong Booth at Wretched Mess Festival
- 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm – Live Music with North Fork Crossing from Bozeman, MT
- Sunday 9/7/25
- DIY Fishing on Own and Depart
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.
Registration
Our iFishiBelong DIY Fishing events are designed to be budget-friendly, with only a minimal registration cost. This fee is not for profit, it helps offset essential expenses such as travel logistics, online platforms, permits, and coordination. We strive to keep these events affordable and accessible while still providing valuable resources, opportunities to connect, and an inclusive fishing experience for all participants.
By registering, you’re directly supporting iFishiBelong’s mission to create and sustain affordable opportunities for fishing and exploration. Every contribution empowers us to continue offering diverse, cost-effective events and trips designed to be accessible for individuals from all financial backgrounds. Together, we’re building a community where more people can discover, enjoy, and belong in the world of fishing.
Refund Policy
Please note that registration is non-refundable. If you are unable to attend after registering, your fee will be gratefully accepted as a donation to support iFishiBelong’s mission-driven work, helping us expand our reach and provide enriching experiences for all.
What's Included
- Exclusive webpage access for registered Montana participants
- iFishiBelong Cling Magnet included (a $20 value)
- Live Q&A Session:
- Slidedeck 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
1hr donation based workshop
** Note: Registration for the Montana event is required. **
We’ve reviewed the 2024 survey results and understand that attendees of the DIY Fishing events are looking for more hands-on education. In response, we’re excited to offer a 1-hour, donation-based workshop titled “MT Fall Fishing Techniques.” This session will provide essential skills through interactive, hands-on learning.
Connect With other anglers
We understand that not everyone uses or prefers Facebook to connect with fellow anglers registered for the Montana event. That’s why we’ve created an alternative: the Montana Angler Connection WhatsApp Group. Our co-hosts will be active in both the Facebook Group and the WhatsApp group to answer questions and share helpful info leading up to the event.
Use either the Facebook Group or the WhasApp MT Connection Group to connect with other anglers, make fishing plans, share tips, and ask questions.
Travel
West Yellowstone, located in southern Montana, serves as a gateway to Yellowstone National Park. We chose these dates to align with the Wretched Mess Fly Fishing & Art Festival and to take advantage of the phenomenal fall fishing on the Henry’s Fork and Madison River.
The nearest airports are West Yellowstone WYS 10 mins, Bozeman BZN 2hrs, Idaho Falls IDA 1hr 45mins, Jackson JAC 3hrs, Salt Lake City SLC 4hrs 45 mins, Boise 5hrs 45mins.
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.
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 identified prime fishing spots and proximity for driving to 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.
Fishing
West Yellowstone, famous for fishing, is located near the headwaters of the Madison, Gallatin, and Henry’s Fork of the Snake River.
September fishing near West Yellowstone, Montana, is nothing short of magical. As summer shifts into fall, the Madison River flows clear and cool, offering epic dry fly and streamer fishing for aggressive browns and rainbows. The Henry’s Fork just across the Idaho border comes alive with rising fish during afternoon mayfly hatches, especially near the Railroad Ranch where technical dry fly fishing challenges even the most seasoned anglers.
Inside Yellowstone National Park, cooler temps and fewer crowds create ideal conditions for targeting native cutthroat trout. Slough Creek, Lamar River, and Soda Butte come into peak form, with terrestrial patterns like hoppers and beetles drawing explosive takes. It’s a time of golden light, crisp mornings, and wild fish in pristine waters—a must-fish window in some of the most iconic trout water in the world.
DIY Fishing
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.
social fishing day
We have obtained a permit with 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
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.
Yellowstone Fishing
Felt-soled Boots Prohibited
Regulations and Fishing Regions – https://www.nps.gov/yell/planyourvisit/fishing.htm
To reduce the potential for introducing or spreading aquatic invasive species, footgear with absorbent felt or other fibrous material on the soles is prohibited while fishing in Yellowstone.
Fishing 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.
Hire a Local 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.
- Aurorra Dominguez – Madison River Fishing Company
- Kara Tripp – Damsel Fly Fishing
- Katherine Robinson – Blue Ribbon Flies
Fly Shops
We are very lucky to be sponsored by Big Sky Anglers for this event. Pick up your last-minute items or book a guided trip with them.
Connect with a Women's Group
Education Opportunities
- Live Q&A Session:
- Slidedeck HERE
- Engage with Other Registrants:
- 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.
- Live Q&A Session:
We’re here to help, so don’t hesitate to ask!
Safety Policy
For the safety of all, if you show any signs of illness or have a positive test result, kindly remain at home. Stay informed about the weather, dress for the occasion, and stay alert to any shifts in water conditions.
QUestions
Please utilize this webpage, the Montana Facebook Group, and/or the Montana Angler Connection WhatsApp Group, as most of your questions will be answered. Otherwise, email [email protected].
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 via the Facebook Group. This is not an exclusive women’s weekend. Partners, friends, and family are encouraged to join.
