My neighbor invited me to join him for his bi-annual fly fishing trip with his long-time outfitter/guide Nate Stevane [Trout on the Fly]. Although I have fished all my life, this was my first experience fly fishing and by the end of the first day, I was hooked (pun intended). By the end of the third day, I was planning my next trip to fish with Nate.
Walk/Wade: Nate has guided for my neighbor for over twenty years in Montana and it was clear to me why. He is an expert guide and has an incredible depth of knowledge of the land, wildlife, fauna,Yellowstone National Park, and the numerous Montana and Yellowstone rivers. We completed two days of walk/wade and spent the final day floating the Madison. He knows the rivers and insect hatches like the back of his hand and kept us on the fish the entire time.
Float: This was the best day! I have never seen someone work so hard rowing, retying presentations, providing instruction, all while keeping us on the fish.
Got on the water and I caught the first fish within 150 meters of the launch!
First time fly fisherman: Nate provided the basic instruction I needed to get going and he was frequently retying my presentation to find the right combination. He provided helpful instruction throughout our three days to correct my cast, place my line in the right place, and taught several casting techniques that were helpful in confined places, high wind, off hand, and in the boat in close proximity to another fisherman. Had several tangles and Nate never grew impatient with me.
Logistics: Nate had the entire trip wired. His directions were clear and set expectations for our daily agenda. Nate will always be early to meet you at your lodging location and he is always prepared. He has more than ample gear to make up for anything that you may have forgotten, to include extra layers in case the weather is colder than you anticipated. The lunches he arranged were delicious and nutritious for long days and he carried plenty of water to keep you hydrated. If you require rental equipment, Nate is prepared with top quality fly rods, waders, and boots.
Communication: Nate responded quickly to all inquiries and has entertained my questions about purchasing gear for the past two months.
Nate from Trout on the Fly was the first outfitter/guide I have worked with and, while I have no other experience by which to measure, I am a good judge of character. I was so impressed with him as a guide, professional, and human being that I will continue to fish with Nate and Trout on the Fly for years to come. I cannot recommend him enough to all experienced and first time fly fisherman.
Hire Nate and Trout on the Fly, get on the fish, and enjoy a life changing experience.