August 2005

Fish On!

Our guests have big smiles – and have been catching some big fish
– as these recent photos from our fishing adventures show.

We’re at the peak of summer now in West Glacier – and wanted to touch base about what we are up to. The wildflowers are simply amazing this year – huge stands of beargrass, fields of glacier lilies, and a patchwork of fireweed and Indian paintbrush. It literally takes your breath away. So do the big fish we have been catching! Our raft demo days was a great success thanks to you – our customers – and we’re happy that so many of you went out on the river, a few of you purchased new rafts, and everyone enjoyed full bellies at the barbecue.

Incredible Fishing
“It’s summer and it’s rocking!” That’s what fishing guide Jason Voelker is saying. “Everybody is seeing big fish, hooking them – and yes, even landing them. The quality of the fishing is really improving year by year. I was born and raised here and I’ve never seen it better.”

We begin fishing trips at the Outdoor Center in West Glacier where you meet your guide, get your gear, and then it’s off to the river. We’re fishing the upper reaches of the Middle Fork, as well as down by West Glacier. The North Fork has been especially good this summer. Glacier Outdoor Center also offers a rental program for fly rods, waders, float tubes, boats and other accessories. A Montana fishing license is required and available for purchase.

Catch & Release is Working
Did you know that both the Middle and North Forks of the Flathead are protected by the Wild and Scenic River designation and a catch-and-release policy has been used on the river system since the 1998 season? “Catch and release really seems to be working,” said Darwon Stoneman, co-owner of Glacier Raft. “We continue to notice an increase in the number of larger fish.”

Both the Middle and North Fork are renowned for their abundance of the native Westslope Cutthroat trout. Guides recommend the type of flies to use, and catching fish is practically guaranteed. Lucky guests have also seen grizzly bears and black bears along the riverbanks.

Learn to Fly Fish
If you have always wanted to learn to fly-fish but don’t know how to get started, we invite you to join us for an introductory course. Our Glacier Anglers Fly Shop hosts fly casting clinics every Tuesday and Thursday through the end of August. The clinics begin at 6 p.m. at the trout pond located behind the Outdoor Center. The clinics are free and last one hour. No prior experience or equipment is required. Our guides give an explanation of the equipment involved with fly fishing and a demonstration of casting techniques. Come give it a try!

Special September Deal Autumn is an amazing time of year to experience Glacier Park. Beginning Sept. 15, we’re offering a $99 cabin special for a 1-bedroom and $199 for a 2-bedroom. Our log cabins provide all the comforts of home, along with breathtaking views of the mountains of Glacier National Park. Make reservations for cabin rentals and river trips by calling Glacier Raft & Outdoor Center at 1-800-235-6781 or 406-888-5454 or visit www.glacierraftco.com. We’re located one half mile west of West Glacier, under the log arch.

See you on the river!

Darwon Stoneman
Sally Thompson
Onno Wieringa
Co-owners, Glacier Raft Company