How much does a guided fishing trip cost?
Our rates vary by trip type and season. Drift boat float trips on the Missouri River are $700 per day for 1–2 anglers. Land of Giants jet boat trips are $825 per day for 1–2 anglers.
All trips include your guide, all fishing gear, flies, lunch, and beverages.
How long are your fishing trips?
We offer both full-day and half-day trips. Full-day trips run 8–10 hours on the water. Half-day trips run 4–5 hours. Start times may vary based on season and weather conditions.
What do you provide on the trip?
We provide everything you need for a great day on the water:
- Professional guide
- All fishing gear (rods, reels)
- All flies and tippet
- Riverside lunch
- Beverages and snacks
- Safety equipment
Just bring your fishing license, appropriate clothing layers, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure.
Should I book lodging before or after booking my fishing trip?
Book your fishing dates first, then arrange lodging. Peak season trips (June–July) book 6–12 months ahead, and lodging fills quickly during the same period.
We can provide lodging recommendations once your trip is confirmed.
Where do we meet for trips?
Meeting locations depend on your trip type. For drift boat float trips on the Missouri River, we typically meet in Craig, Montana. For Land of Giants jet boat trips, we meet at the Gates of the Mountains Marina located at 3131 Gates of the Mountains Road. We’ll provide detailed meeting instructions and directions when you book your trip.
How many people can fish per boat?
Our drift boats and jet boats comfortably fit 1–2 anglers plus your guide. If you have a larger group, we can arrange multiple boats and guides to fish together.
Just let us know your group size when booking and we’ll set up the best arrangement for your party.
What’s the difference between a jet boat trip and a drift boat trip?
Jet Boat (Land of Giants): We use a motorized jet boat to cross Holter Lake and access this exclusive section below Hauser Dam. Once we’re on the fishing water, your guide rows the boat like a traditional drift boat. The jet boat’s flexibility lets us work prime spots thoroughly and reposition throughout the day.
Drift Boat (Lower Missouri): This is the classic Missouri River float experience below Holter Dam. Your guide rows downstream, covering different water throughout the day.
Both offer exceptional fishing. The choice comes down to whether you want to target the trophy trout of the Land of Giants or experience the renowned Lower Mo.
What does it mean that Living Water is Orvis-endorsed?
Orvis endorsement is earned — not given. Orvis partners only with outfitters who demonstrate professionalism, expertise, and a genuine commitment to conservation and customer service.
For you, it means fishing with guides who meet high standards, use quality equipment, and consistently deliver trips that keep anglers coming back year after year.
What is the Land of Giants, and why is your marina access important?
The Land of Giants is the Missouri River section below Hauser Dam — legendary water known for producing some of the largest trout in the entire system.
We’re one of only a handful of outfitters with a land use agreement at the Gates of the Mountains Marina. This gives us direct, private access to launch our jet boats, while others deal with public ramps and long run times. The result: you spend more time fishing and less time traveling.
Where should I stay when fishing the Missouri River?
Our clients stay in a range of accommodations — hotels, fly fishing lodges, vacation rentals, and campgrounds. Some arrive with RVs and prefer camping near the river.
We’re happy to help you find lodging that fits your budget. Several of our lodging partners offer exclusive pricing for Living Water clients.
How Far in Advance Should I book my trip?
We recommend booking 6 months to 1 year in advance for peak season dates, especially May through July. Popular weekends and holidays fill fast.
Early spring and late fall dates tend to have more flexibility. That said, we occasionally have last-minute openings — so it’s always worth reaching out even if your trip is just a few weeks away.
Are your guides local to the Missouri River?
Yes. Our guides live in Helena, Wolf Creek, Great Falls, and Craig. The Missouri River isn’t just where they work — it’s where they fish on their days off.
Unlike outfitters who rotate guides between multiple rivers, our team focuses almost exclusively on the Missouri. This is their home water, and that depth of experience shows.
What qualifications do your guides have?
All jet boat guides are United States Coast Guard licensed captains. Whether we’re navigating Holter Lake or running the river, you’re in capable, professionally trained hands.
Beyond certifications, our guides are full-time professionals who have dedicated their careers to the Missouri River system.
Can I bring my dog on the fishing trip?
In some cases, yes. We can accommodate small, well-behaved dogs on certain trips. Please let us know when booking so we can discuss whether it’s a good fit for your specific trip type.
Dogs must be comfortable in boats and able to stay calm while fishing is underway.
What should I bring on my trip?
You’ll need:
- A valid Montana fishing license (easily purchased online)
- Polarized sunglasses
- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, lip balm)
- Layered clothing appropriate for the season
- Any personal items you’d like
We provide all fishing gear, but you’re welcome to bring your own rod if you prefer. See our detailed packing guide for a full seasonal list.
How many reviews does Living Water Guide Service have?
We’ve earned well over 100 five-star reviews across Google and Orvis — and counting. Our guests consistently mention knowledgeable, patient guides and memorable days on the water.
What is your cancellation policy?
A 50% deposit is required to confirm your reservation. The balance is due 30 days before your trip.
- Cancellations within 60 days: Deposit may transfer to another trip in the same calendar year, subject to guide availability.
- Cancellations within 30 days: Deposit is forfeited.
- Cancellations within 72 hours: Full trip cost is charged.
Our guided trips run in all safe weather and water conditions. Poor weather, water levels, or tough fishing are not valid reasons for cancellation. If the outfitter or guide cancels due to unsafe conditions, a full refund will be issued.
We understand life happens and will consider exceptions on a case-by-case basis.
Do you guide other rivers besides the Missouri?
We occasionally fish nearby waters, but our team focuses almost exclusively on the Missouri River system. This isn’t a limitation — it’s our strength.
When you fish with us, you’re fishing with guides who have spent years mastering this tailwater.
What can I expect from a trip with Living Water Guides?
You can expect local experts who know this water intimately. You’ll get quality gear, professional USCG-licensed captains on jet boat trips, and an authentic Montana experience.
Whether you’re casting a dry fly for the first time or you’ve fished the Missouri for decades, we tailor every trip to your skill level and interests.
Is Living Water Guide Service good for beginners?
Absolutely. Our guides are patient teachers who work with anglers of all skill levels. Many guests mention in their reviews that our guides are excellent instructors who create a positive, encouraging environment on the water.
Why do you focus only on the Missouri River?
Because mastery takes focus. The Missouri is a complex tailwater that shifts with the seasons — different hatches, water conditions, and fish behavior throughout the year.
By dedicating ourselves to this river, our guides have developed an intimate understanding of when and where to find fish, which techniques work best, and how to adapt to daily conditions. That specialized knowledge translates directly into better fishing for you.
What’s the best time of year to fish the Missouri River?
The Missouri fishes well from March through November, with each season offering something unique. Read Best times t Fish here
Spring (April–May): Pre-runoff fishing and warming water temps make this a productive time for nymphing, streamer and dry fly fishing .
Summer (June–August): Prime dry fly season. Prolific Pale Morning Dun and Caddis hatches bring trout rising consistently throughout the day.
Fall (September–November): Brown trout become aggressive and streamer fishing really shines — some of the most exciting fishing of the year.
Winter: Rewarding days are possible for anglers willing to brave the cold.
There’s no bad time to fish the Missouri. It just depends on what style of fishing you enjoy most.
Do you offer gift certificates?
Yes! A guided fishing trip on the Missouri River makes a perfect gift for birthdays, holidays, retirements, or special occasions.
Contact us to purchase a gift certificate for a specific trip type and we’ll help create a memorable experience for someone special.
Why should I choose Living Water Guides for my Missouri River fishing trip?
Our team of guides live and fish the Missouri year-round. This is their home water — not just where they work.
While many outfitters rotate guides between rivers across Montana, our team dedicates itself almost exclusively to the Missouri River system. That means you’re fishing with people who know this river from years of focused experience.
When you fish with us, you’re fishing with true Missouri River guides.
What Our Guests Say
“Had an absolute blast with owner Jeff Lattig on the Missouri! From myself guiding in Colorado and fishing all over, Jeff is one of the nicest, most patient guides out there—and you will learn a ton… The mighty mo really lives up to the hype, and you shouldn’t do it unless you’re with Jeff or one of his guides. The Living Water Crew is top notch and will give you the experience of a lifetime!”
— Nelson Oxley, Flylords
“Living Water guide service was simply incredible. We saw a large variety of fish in the net and the gear was top notch. Jeff even packed a gourmet lunch for us. Many memories were made and Jeff put us on fish almost every cast. I look forward to showing off all of the great pictures he took of the beautiful fish we landed.”
“Boats and equipment are top notch. I would recommend Jeff and his guide service to any of my friends, family, or other fellow anglers looking for a memorable day.”
–Justin Pickett,Gink & Gasoline
“Our trip to the Missouri River fishing with Living Water Guide Service and guide Shafter was the best trip we have had in Montana. The hospitality and expert guide service along with the great experience sets Living Water above and beyond others. We were able to fish, laugh, and share great stories with Shafter. Capt Shafter is more than a fishing guide, he makes the fishing experience memorable.”
— Brian Withrow
“I have fished with over 30 guides throughout my fishing lifetime and I can honestly say that Jeff is the best. Hard working, excellent fisherman and very knowledgeable regarding fly patterns and fish behavior. Jeff provides excellent food and his boat and gear are immaculate. His demeanor is easy going and his teaching skills are excellent which provides a positive environment while fishing. Jeff is everything you should expect from an Orvis endorsed guide.”
— Brett M
Best two days of fly fishing I’ve ever had! This trip was designed for myself and my daughter who is a beginner. John took us on the lower Missouri river for a float trip and was an excellent guide. He spent 30 minutes upfront teaching Teresa the basics of casting. After we got started, we had plenty of great fishing and caught very nice rainbow trout. The following day we went with. Jeff and fish the lake in the upper Missouri. It was fabulous trout fishing, and Jeff worked very hard to get us into the good spots. He was also very instructive on technique of casting. As a final bit of fun, the jet boat took us along the end of the lake Into the beautiful gorge. We viewed Eagle and osprey. This is not an inexpensive trip but for a dollar spent the value is fantastic. I plan to come back with my son for a repeat visit in July or August. In addition, my brother-in-law states he wants to come along also.
-Russel C