Jeff and Jeannette Gray opened Western Flies and Guides in June 2009. The fly shop is located at 906 S 1st St, Hamilton, Montana. This is on the south side of town about a block north of the intersection of Golf Course Road and Highway 93. Prior to opening Western Flies and Guides, Jeff was the General Manager of a large sporting goods retailer. In addition to guiding fishermen, running the fly shop and ski shop, Jeff is also active overseeing the Bitterroot Buggers.
Fly Shop
The Fly Shop is open year round. In the winter months Jeff and Jeannette offer cross country ski, downhill ski, snowboard and snowshoe rentals. Die hard fishermen are always welcome, though. And the shop boasts a cozy sitting area for fishermen to congregate and tell their lies stories.
Fly fishing equipment from top manufacturers is well stocked. There is a complete selection for even the most staunch enthusiast. There are several fly tying stations which come in useful for the fly tying classes Jeff conducts. The classes cost $50.00 for 6 weeks and begin whenever there is a full class signed up. Fly casting instruction is also available. Call the shop for more details, (406) 363-9099.
Guided Fly Fishing
Jeff Gray is the primary fly fishing guide. He operates under Montana Outfitter License #77 of John Adza. John is a Montana native who has been outfitting for 27 years. John also carries an Idaho guides license for North Fork Guides which allows Western Flies and Guides to offer steelhead trips on the Salmon River. Steelhead fishing begins around the first of March.
Jeff and John book trips on the Clark Fork River, Blackfoot River, Bitterroot River and area lakes. Western Flies and Guides offers scenic float trips, guided fly fishing float trips as well as walk and wade trips. They can also book lodging if needed. There is also a shuttle service for anglers floating in their own raft.
The peak fly fishing season runs from March through the end of October. And most of the time we are fishing Dry Flies!
If you are in the Bitterroot Valley or would like to book a guided fly fishing trip, give Western Flies & Guides a shout. You should also visit their website: Western Flies & Guides
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Hey Jeff, just sending everyone my information for a reminder. My name is John Parker, guide #5148, and I am available for guide trips this summer. I have been fishing the river for 30+ years and guiding for 19 years. I have worked for about 15 outfitters in the area with no complaints. I taught elementary school for 25 years so I do well with children or beginners and can work independently, just tell me where to find the clients. I have worked all the area rivers and also have a cabin on Rock Creek that can be used for client accommodations. I am available all season. If you wish, I can supply outfitter or client references and can be reached at 777-3770, 239-0902, or maryandjohn@gmail.com. Thank you