Montana Paradise Valley / Billings Guide Recs?

[Kevin Chaney]

TPFRs,

I have an unexpected work trip coming up very soon (2 weeks!) and I'll be taking a personal day to try and hit the water. I'll be working in Billings, but really want to visit Paradise Valley if possible. The spring creeks in that area look awesome - and the scenery is, well, tremendous.

I could secure a spot on some of the Spring Creeks (where they have a rod fee), but not sure my fly-fishing acumen is sufficient to try it by myself. So I was hoping to secure a guide - although it might be more difficult at this point in time.

So, anyone with a recommendation? advice?

Many thanks,

Kevin

[Mollie Simpkins]

Kevin and anyone else that might be heading out to the Bozeman/Livingston/Paradise Valley area,

I got back a few days ago from spending a week in Bozeman and it was fantastic as always. With that said, the fishing has been a bit rough as the levels have been low. I fished Armstrong Spring Creek one day and it was pretty impossible. Because of the heat, it is hella mossy.

Once last year and two times this year I fished with a guide by the name of Dennis Alverson.  Not only is he fun, he is pretty darned good at getting you on the fish  The first day we went out was on the Yellowstone. We floated from Gardiner to an area near Corwin Springs..great day. He and I got talking about horses and mentioned that in a former life, I actually rode for a living. Well..that is all it took.  A few days later we drove a ways into the Absorka Beartooth Wilderness with his horses. We rode two hours in and fished on a stream rarely seen called the Meatrack Creek.  Those fish were so happy to see a hopper we had three go for it at the same time...it was crazy and FUN!  Then..we rode out two hours.  It was an amazing day.

So..contact Dennis and set up a day..you won't be sorry. His number is  406-220-0755. Do tell him I sent you..not that it will get you anything!!!

Mollie

On Wednesday, September 5, 2012 10:18:04 PM UTC-4, Kevin Chaney wrote:

TPFRs,

[Joanne]

There are several guiding outfits based in Livingston.  But there is a decent amount of public fishing access to the Yellowstone River if you take 89 South from Livingston (head towards Yellowstone).  Just south of Livingston on 89, right after the Pop Stand, is a nice little spot on your left.  As you keep going on 89, you should see a fair amount of signs for more fishing access if you dont want to use a guide.  

Also a little South of Livingston, you can cross the Yellowstone on Carter Bridge and get onto 540 South.  (it pretty much parallels 89, but on the opposite side of the river.  There's a bunch of streams stemming off of the Yellowstone. (Pine Creek Trail is pretty cool and leads to a nice lake. but, if memory serves me well, the creek itself wouldnt lend to great fishing...)

there's even more access as you head south and get closer to Yellowstone.  

My only other piece of advice is not fishing related- but if you're in Paradise Valley, be sure to stop for a soak at Chico Hot Springs.  They often have fun live music on the weekends and good beer!  If you're an IPA fan, i would highly recommend Blackfoot IPA if you find it being served. (Billings has some good breweries as well).   

I have the red Montana road/recreation Atlas.  if you would like to borrow it (get a 'feel for the land' before heading out there).  

Hope you have fun!  

Joanne

On Wednesday, September 5, 2012 10:18:04 PM UTC-4, Kevin Chaney wrote:

[Tie&Fly]

Kevin,

I was just out in Montana this summer fishing the Bighorn, it's about 2 hours east of Billings and completely worth the drive.  The Bighorn Angler can provide you with everything from guides to lodging to rental drift boats and shuttle services.  Fishing this time of year is still hot, and continues to be good year-round.  If you haven't fished the Bighorn before, I really recommend it, it's an experience like few others.

If you want more information just shoot me an email (jpbe...@email.wm.edu) and I'll talk to a friend out there who's guiding the river if you want

-John

On Wednesday, September 5, 2012 10:18:04 PM UTC-4, Kevin Chaney wrote:

[DF1824]

Brant Oswald who works out of the Sweetwater Fly Shop in Livingston is an amazing fisherman and knows the spring creeks in that part of the world like the back of his hand.

Highly recommend http://www.sweetwaterflyshop.com/Guide/Guides

On Wednesday, September 5, 2012 10:18:04 PM UTC-4, Kevin Chaney wrote: