Guided Fly Fishing Trips on Montana's Missouri River.

Fish world-class trout water with a veteran guide who teaches you to catch fish on purpose, not by accident.

Veteran-owned outfitter • 12+ years guiding the Missouri • Limited prime dates each season

Why Anglers Choose Montana Trout Hunters (and Keep Coming Back)

When you book with Montana Trout Hunters, you're not just renting a boat. You're fishing with a mentor. Owner and head outfitter Darrel DeLeon combines 26 years of military leadership, 24 years of formal teaching, and more than a decade guiding the Missouri and surrounding rivers. That means your day isn't guesswork; it's a coached, confidence-building experience built around your skill level and goals.

  • Serious local expertise. Darrel lives on these rivers and rows them season after season, adjusting your game plan to flows, hatches, weather, and pressure so you're in the best water for the day.

  • Patient, structured coaching. Clear instruction on casting, presentation, reading water, and fighting fish, whether it's your first trout or your personal best.

  • Everything handled for you. Boats, flies, premium rods and reels (if needed), shuttles, and a hearty riverside lunch on full-day trips so you can just show up and fish.

  • Small number of clients, big focus on you. We don't mass-produce trips or overbook the calendar. Every day is intentionally limited so you get our full attention.

Fly Fishing Trips Built Around Your Montana Adventure

Half day, full day, or three days of immersion. Every trip is fully guided and tailored to how you like to fish.

Full-Day Missouri & Madison Float Trips

Your best shot at a banner Montana trout day. Float the legendary Missouri, Madison, or Land of Giants section with a veteran guide, all gear and lunch included for 1–2 anglers. Perfect for anglers who want a full day of action and instruction on big water.

3-Day Trout Mastery Experience

For anglers who want to truly learn this river. Three days of guided fishing and structured coaching designed to transform how you see water, choose flies, and approach big trout. We'll rotate rivers and sections based on conditions so you get a full picture of this fishery.

Hosted Trips

Join Darrel on hosted trips to world-class destinations beyond Montana. Seamless logistics, trusted outfitters, and a tight-knit group of passionate anglers.

Not sure which trip is right for you? Tell us your dates and experience level and we'll recommend a plan.

How It Works

You show up and fish. We handle the rest

You show up and fish. We handle the rest

You show up and fish. We handle the rest

Montana's Legendary Trout Rivers, One Outfitter

Missouri River

Consistent flows, heavy fish counts, and legendary hatches. Perfect for anglers who want high numbers, big average fish, and technical dry fly shots when conditions line up.

Land of Giants

Boat-only tailwater with a reputation for thick, hard-fighting rainbows and browns over 20 inches. Limited access keeps pressure low and opportunity high.

Madison River

Classic Montana scenery, fast riffles, and lots of pocket water. Ideal for anglers who love active fishing and learning to read complex structure.

Real Anglers. Real Trips. Real Memories.

Anglers who come once tend to come back. Here's what a few of them say after fishing with Darrel.

"I've fished with Darrel many times, and he consistently exceeds expectations. He's a skilled instructor, his preparation is meticulous, and he's just great company. You won't regret booking a trip with him."

David Vanderpool

Darrel delivers more than just fish. His deep knowledge and tailored approach ensure you learn and catch plenty. Whether you're a beginner or seasoned angler, he'll help you maximize your day on the river. His professionalism and organization make every trip smooth and enjoyable. Highly recommended!

Bill Noonan

Ever since I found Darrel, my fishing trips have been consistently amazing. He's hardworking, passionate, and knows how to find fish even on tough days. He's great with anglers of all levels and truly wants you to have an incredible experience. Plus, he's just a good guy! Highly recommend booking with him.

Tom Layson

I've been on several guided trips, but Darrel's attention to detail and dedication to making each outing special sets him apart. He not only knows where to find the fish, but he also takes the time to teach you new techniques and tips. Every trip with him is an opportunity to learn something new and have a great time.

Mark Thompson

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need my own gear?

No. You can absolutely fish with us without owning any gear.

We provide premium fly rods, reels, and fly lines if you don’t bring your own. Local shops offer wader and boot rentals if you’d rather not travel with them (just note that studded boots are not allowed in the boats).

Most guests prefer to bring their own waders and boots if they have them, but it’s not required. If you show up with appropriate clothing for the season, we can supply everything else you need to fish comfortably.

What about licenses?

Yes, each angler needs a valid Montana fishing license. Licenses are the angler’s responsibility and are not included in the trip price.

You can purchase a license online before your trip or at many local retailers. We strongly recommend buying your license in advance so your day on the river starts on time.

Your guide handles all other required permits and access paperwork for the waters we fish.

What’s your cancellation policy?

Life happens, and sometimes plans change. Our policy is:

• 90+ days before your trip: Full refund of your deposit, minus any credit card processing fees.

• Less than 90 days before your trip: We refund your deposit only if we’re able to rebook your guide for the same date. If we can’t, the deposit is forfeited.

• Within 7 days of your trip or no shows: The full trip amount is charged.

You can read the complete details here: Refund and Cancellation Policy.

We’ll always do our best to work with you when unexpected things come up, but this policy helps protect both your time and our guides’ calendars so everyone knows what to expect.

Can you handle beginners / kids?

Absolutely.

Our trips are built for all skill levels – from first time fly fishers to seasoned anglers working on specific techniques. We adjust the day to your experience, interests, and pace.

• Beginners get patient, step by step instruction on casting, reading water, choosing flies, and fighting fish.

• Kids and non fishing guests are welcome, and we’re happy to tailor the day to make it fun and comfortable for them.

• For safety and comfort, each drift boat is limited to one guide and up to two guests. Larger families or groups can be accommodated with additional boats and guides.

If you tell us who’s coming and their experience level, we’ll design a trip that fits.

Still have questions before you book? Call or email and we'll walk you through it.

Ready to Book Your Montana Fly Fishing Adventure?

We guide a limited number of days each season and do not overbook. Prime dates on the Missouri, Land of Giants, and Madison fill weeks to months in advance. If you're even considering a trip this year, lock in dates now and we'll fine-tune the details together.

Plan Your Trip

Ready to experience world-class fly fishing? Get in touch and let's plan your Montana adventure.

Ready To Get Started?

Call or Text Darrel: (406) 451-3695

Bad Time To Call?

Fill in the form and Darrell will reach out to you.

Ready To Get Started?

Call or Text Darrel: (406) 451-3695

Bad Time To Call?

Fill in the form and Darrell will reach out to you.

Still have questions before you book? Call or email and we'll walk you through it.