Glacier Park Collection

Packing Guide For Multi-day Fishing Trips

It is important to remember that Montana weather can be unpredictable. When you pack, know that the air temperature can vary from 30 to 90° Fahrenheit (-1 to 32° Celsius). The best way to be prepared for these extremes is to dress in layers. As a minimum, you should invest in a good set of rain gear, including both jacket and pants.

Midweight long underwear, top and bottom, are also required outside of June, July and August (weather permitting). Avoid cotton — opt for a synthetic material like polypropylene (polypro), Capilene, polar fleece or pile. These materials are designed to keep you warm even when wet. Cotton will leave you shivering if you get splashed, even on a warm day.

Printable Packing List

Printable Packing List for the Great Bear Wilderness

  • Transportation from our office to where your trip begins.
  • Meals, from lunch on the first day through lunch on the final day.
  • Waterproof bags for your personal gear (one large dry bag per person which is not accessible during day and one small bag per boat which will be accessible during the day). *Personal clothing and gear should weigh less than 40 lb total.*
  • Tents, sleeping bags and sleeping pads (Big Agnes, Sierra Designs, REI, Kelty, AIRE).
  • Coast Guard approved Type V Personal Floatation Devices (life jackets).
  • Fly Rods (9’ 4-5 wt. 4 pc fly rods).
  • Flies (Western trout patterns, caddis, mayflies, stoneflies, humpies and hoppers, sizes 12-16).
  • Extra leader, tippet (9’ 3x – 5x).
  • Fly floatant, hemostats and nippers.
  • Wetsuits, if required.
  • Your guide will have a net.
  • Waterproof rain jacket and pants (ponchos or vinyl raingear are not sufficient).
  • One to two T-shirts.
  • One light long-sleeved shirt (for sun protection).
  • One set synthetic thermal underwear, top and bottom (midweight).*
  • One pair of pants (used while in camp).
  • One pair fleece or pile pants (used while on river).
  • Two pairs of shorts (one for the river and one for camp).
  • Swimsuit.
  • Wool or polypropylene (polypro) socks.
  • One pair of camp shoes (for around camp and short hikes).
  • One pair of river shoes (water sport sandals with straps. Examples: Chaco, Keen, Teva, wetsuit booties, old tennis shoes).
  • Two hats (one for sun protection and one for warmth).
  • One pair of gloves (fleece, wool or neoprene).*
  • If you have your own wetsuit or dry suit, you may bring it. Wetsuits are not usually necessary if you have the recommended clothing. However, if required due to conditions, wetsuits will be provided at no charge.
  • Sleeping bag and pad. (Bring your own if possible. We have a limited number available at no extra charge.)
  • Wash cloth and towel.
  • Small camp pillow.
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste.
  • Soap and shampoo (biodegradable or ivory soap).
  • Medications.
  • Sunscreen, lip balm, body lotion and insect repellent.
  • Sunglasses and eyeglass retention strap.
  • Plastic sack for dirty or wet clothing.
  • Flashlight or headlamp (bring extra batteries).
  • Water bottle or canteen.
  • Small backpack or fanny pack.
  • Camera, binoculars. (We have water resistant containers for storage, but you will still want to bring a protective/padded case. Waterproof disposable cameras are available for purchase at Glacier Raft Company in West Glacier Village. Batteries are available at Glacier Anglers & Outfitters at Paddle Ridge).
  • Any preferred snacks or beverages (cans or plastic bottles only).
  • Fly rod or spinning rod. (9′ 4-5 weight 4-piece fly rod or light action 2-piece spinning rod. Make sure they are in a sturdy case for transportation. Rentals available.)
  • Flies or spinners (Western trout patterns like Wulffs, caddis, stoneflies, humpies and hoppers, or spinners like Mepps, cyclones, & Panther Martins. The Glacier Anglers Fly Shop has an excellent selection of local fly and lure patterns available for purchase.) NOTE: The Flathead River is catch and release. Your hooks should be single and barbless. No bait allowed.
  • Extra leaders, tippet or line (9′ 4x or 5x, 4-6 lb test)
  • Fly floatant, hemostats and line nippers
  • Fishing vest or chest pack
  • Stocking foot waders and felt wading boots (only necessary in early spring or fall). Felt-soled sandals during summer. (Rentals available.)
  • Montana fishing license. (Available at Paddle Ridge. Children under 11 do not require a license if fishing with an adult who has a license.)
  • Valid ID
  • Polarized sunglasses
  • A wide-brimmed, breathable hat

*Items may not be necessary during summer months.

All items on this list are available for purchase at Glacier Anglers & Outfitters at Paddle Ridge.

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