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 $800 per day for 1-2 anglers. All trips include your guide, all fishing gear, flies, lunch, and beverages.
How long are your fishing trips?
Our guided trips are full-day and half day experiences, typically full day 8-10 hours on the water depending on the season and trip type. Half Day is 4-5 hours. Start times may vary based on season and weather.
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.
What’s the difference between a jet boat trip and a drift boat trip?
Jet boat trips focus on the Land of Giants section below Hauser Dam, using a motorized jet boat to access this exclusive water. We cross Holter Lake to reach the fishing area, then your guide rows the boat like a traditional drift boat once we’re fishing. The jet boat’s flexibility allows us to work prime spots thoroughly and reposition as needed throughout the day.
Drift boat trips are the classic Missouri River float experience below Holter Dam. Your guide rows a drift boat downstream, covering different water throughout the day. Both trip types offer exceptional fishing—the choice depends on 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 a distinction earned through consistently high standards in guiding, customer service, and conservation ethics. Orvis doesn’t endorse just anyone—they partner with outfitters who demonstrate professionalism, expertise, and a genuine commitment to providing exceptional experiences. For you, this means fishing with guides who meet high standards, use quality equipment, and consistently deliver the kind of 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 section of the Missouri River below Hauser Dam, legendary water known for producing some of the largest trout in the entire Missouri River 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 boat ramps and long run times to the fishery. The result? You spend more time fishing and less time driving.
How Far in Advance Should I book my trip?
We recommend booking 6 months to 1 year in advance for peak season trips, especially for summer dates from May through August. Early spring and late fall dates often have more availability, but popular weekends and holidays fill quickly. If you have specific dates in mind or are planning a special trip, the earlier you book, the better. That said, we sometimes have last-minute availability, 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 the Helena, Wolf Creek, Great falls and Craig area. The Missouri River isn’t just where they work—it’s where they fish on their days off. This is their home water, and they’ve spent years learning its intricacies. Unlike outfitters who rotate guides between rivers across the state, our team rarely fishes other rivers. This focused expertise means you’re always fishing with someone who knows this water intimately.
What qualifications do your guides have?
All of our jet boat guides are United States Coast Guard licensed captains, bringing professional training and expertise to every trip. Safety and professionalism matter, and whether we’re navigating Holter Lake or running the river, you’re in capable 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?
Yes, in some cases we can accommodate small well-behaved dogs on our trips. Please let us know when booking if you’d like to bring your dog, and we’ll discuss whether it’s a good fit for your specific trip. Dogs must be comfortable in boats and able to remain calm while we’re fishing.
What do you provide on the trip?
We provide everything you need for a successful day on the water: professional guides, all fishing gear including rods, reels, waders, and boots (if needed), all flies and tippet, a gourmet riverside lunch, beverages and snacks, and safety equipment. You just need to bring your fishing license, appropriate clothing layers, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure.
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, and any personal items you’d like. We provide all fishing gear, but you’re welcome to bring your own rod if you prefer. Check out our detailed packing guide for a complete list based on the season.
How many reviews does Living Water Guide Service have?
We’ve earned over 100 five-star reviews between google and Orvis and counting. These aren’t just numbers—they represent hundreds of anglers who trusted us with their Montana fishing trip and left eager to come back. Our guests consistently mention knowledgeable and patient guides, and memorable days on the water.
What is your cancellation policy?
A 50% deposit is required to confirm your reservation, with the balance due 30 days before your trip.
Cancellations made within 60 days may transfer the deposit to another trip in the same calendar year, subject to guide availability. Cancellations made within 30 days forfeit the deposit, and cancellations made within 72 hours are charged in full.
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 a trip is canceled by the outfitter or guide 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?
While we occasionally fish nearby waters, 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 dedicated their careers to mastering this tailwater.
What can I expect from a trip with Living Water Guides?
You can expect to fish with local experts who know these waters intimately, quality equipment and service, 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 been fishing the Missouri for decades, we provide genuine, personalized fishing adventures tailored 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 of our guests mention in reviews that our guides are excellent instructors who create a positive, encouraging environment on the water. We’re here to help you learn and grow as an angler while enjoying world-class fishing.
Why do you focus only on the Missouri River?
Because mastery takes focus. The Missouri River is a complex tailwater that changes throughout the seasons, with different hatches, water conditions, and fish behavior patterns. By dedicating ourselves to this river system, our guides have developed a understanding of when and where to find fish, which flies work best, and how to adapt to daily conditions. This specialized knowledge translates directly into better fishing for our guests.
What’s the best time of year to fish the Missouri River?
The Missouri River offers excellent fishing from April through November, with each season bringing its own unique opportunities. Late June through August is prime time for dry fly fishing during the prolific Pale Morning Dun and Caddis hatches, when you’ll see trout rising consistently throughout the day. Spring (April-May) features pre-runoff fishing and spawning rainbow trout migrations, making it productive for nymphing. Fall (September-November) brings some of the year’s most exciting fishing as brown trout become aggressive and streamer fishing really shines. Even winter offers rewarding days for anglers willing to brave the cold. The honest answer? There’s no bad time to fish the Missouri—it just depends on what style of fishing you enjoy most.
How many people can fish per boat?
Our drift boats and jet boats comfortably accommodate 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 create the best setup for your party.
Do you offer gift certificates?
Yes! Gift certificates make perfect presents for the angler in your life. Whether it’s for a birthday, holiday, retirement, or special occasion, a guided fishing trip on the Missouri River is a gift they’ll never forget. Contact us to purchase a gift certificate for a specific trip type and we’ll help you create a memorable experience for someone special.
Why should I choose Living Water Guides for my Missouri River fishing trip?
Our guides live and fish the Missouri River year-round—this isn’t just where we work, it’s our home water. While many outfitters rotate guides between multiple rivers across Montana, our team focuses almost exclusively on the Missouri River system. This deep, intimate knowledge of every run, riffle, and feeding lane comes from years of dedication to mastering this tailwater. 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