Crane Mountain Guide Service welcomes you to one of the most beautiful places on earth, the Flathead Valley.
The Flathead valley is framed by the Rocky Mountains on all sides, with a rich local history and abundance of scenic vistas. From the craggy peaks of the Mission Mountains to the glacial tundra’s of Glacier National Park, the valley is best known for the largest natural lake in the state, Flathead Lake. With many varieties of wild game and fish species calling the Flathead Valley home, this place is an ideal destination for the avid outdoorsman.
What to Expect
Departure
Fishing is a year round activity for Crane Mountain Guide Service, with the most remarkable expeditions taking place during the summer season. No two trips are the same, but a typical day with CMGS would entail a morning departure from around 8:00AM with a scenic trip out to the water body of your choice.
Midday
Streamside lunch is provided for all full day float/fishing trips, followed by fishing into the afternoon, when the insect hatches can yield impressive fishing results. CMGS is happy to accommodate all dietary restrictions or preferences, simply reach out to us ahead of time and let us know how we can best enhance your experience.
Return
Most trips conclude around 5:00PM, but it should be noted that the above listed times are merely guidelines, and any angler who wishes to depart earlier or return home sooner should reach out to us to discuss how we can best accommodate your schedule and fishing preferences.
Weather
Montana offers some of the most scenic float fishing opportunities in the world, and the big sky and warm sun enhance the experience of catching and releasing frisky trout. However, that warm sun can be brutal and it is highly recommended to have the sun screen of your choice on hand.
Although rain can usually be predicted and each boat is equipped with rain gear, it is suggested that each angler have their own light jacket, just in case.
Current Weather: https://forecast.weather.gov
Wildlife
The remote locations of Crane Mountain Guide Service guided trips grant many rare wildlife sighting opportunities. Maybe this is due to the way our vessels glide quietly around each bend and turn that catches critters in their relaxed mode doing what they do.
We encourage anglers to have their cameras out and ready for photo opportunities.
What to Bring
Clothing/Gear
We recommend layering with several shirts of the synthetic fiber variety and a pair of silk or poly/cotton long johns. A light waterproof jacket is recommended.
- hats
- sunglasses
- light gloves
- sunscreen
- personal items
- rain jacket
- camera
- binoculars
Waders and rain gear can be provided, however we realize using your personal equipment enhances the experience, so we encourage bringing whatever may be desired.
Fishing License
A Montana fishing license is required and Fish Wildlife & Parks has made it convenient to purchase one online.
Buy a License: https://app.mt.gov/als
We can sell you a license when you arrive to Crane Mountain Guide Service if you have not already purchased one – just be sure to have a picture ID in your possession.
Local Amenities
From the great outdoors, to the local dining, art, and shopping experiences, you’ll leave wanting to come back. See our list of recommended hot spots, local shops, restaurants, and lodging. We love our community and all it has to offer, and hope you will too.
Visitor Information
Bigfork Chamber of Commerce
Stores:
Bigfork Harvest Foods
Ferndale Market
Lodging:
Bridge Street Cottages
Best Western Plus Flathead Lake
Meadow Lake Resort
Mountain Lake Lodge
Restaurants:
Grateful Bread Cafe
Echo Lake Cafe
Bars, Breweries, Etc:
Flathead Lake Brewery
Garden Bar
Shopping & Supplies:
Snappy’s Sport Senter – (Kalispell)
Local Attractions:
Bigfork Summer Playhouse
Glacier National Park
