Montana hunting & Fishing outfitter

What To Bring

What to Bring for Your Montana Hunt or Fishing Trip

A straightforward checklist to help you arrive prepared and ready to hunt or fish.

If you ever have questions about gear or what makes sense for your specific trip, just reach out. We’d rather answer it ahead of time.

Clothing & Layers

Montana weather can change fast. Layers matter more than anything else.

General Clothing

  • Base layers (moisture-wicking recommended)

  • Insulating mid-layer

  • Waterproof outer layer

  • Comfortable hunting or fishing pants

  • Warm hat and gloves

  • Extra socks

Seasonal Notes

  • Fall hunts: Bring warmer layers and insulated outerwear

  • Spring hunts: Focus on lighter layers and rain protection

  • Summer trips: Sun protection and breathable clothing matter most

FOOTWEAR

Good boots make a big difference, especially on hunting trips.

  • Broken-in boots

  • Extra socks

  • Camp shoes for evenings

Avoid bringing brand-new boots if you can help it.

HUNTING GEAR

Big Game Hunting Gear

For deer and elk hunts:

  • Daypack

  • Binoculars

  • Rangefinder

  • Headlamp

  • Knife or multi-tool

  • Shooting sticks (optional but helpful)

Firearm / Archery Equipment

  • Rifle or bow sighted in before arrival

  • Ammo or arrows you trust

  • Sling or bow case

  • Image of a woman holding a brown trout she recently caught with Ryan Stefek Outfitters in Fort Smith, MT
  • Image of Ryan Stefek from RSO guided fly fishing trips holding two rainbow trout while standing in the Bighorn River in Fort Smith, MT
  • Image of a fishing on the Bighorn River in Thermopolis, WY during a Ryan Stefek Outfitters guided fly fishing trip.
  • Image of a fishing boat on the Bighorn River in Fort Smith, MT during a Ryan Stefek Outfitters guided fly fishing trip.
  • Image of a fly fishing client holding a fly rod reeling in a catch on the Bighorn River in Fort Smith, MT with Ryan Stefek Outfitters, RSO.
  • Image of a fly fishing client holding a fly rod reeling in a catch on the Clearwater River in Kooskia, ID with Ryan Stefek, Adventures Edge Anglers
  • Image of a woman holding a rainbow trout on the Bighorn River in Fort Smith, MT showcasing the guided fly fishing trips provided by Ryan Stefek Outfitters, RSO.
  • Image of a fly fishing client holding a fly rod reeling in a catch on the Bighorn River in Fort Smith, MT with Ryan Stefek Outfitters, RSO.
  • Image of a man holding a brown trout, showcasing Ryan Stefek Outfitters guided fly fishing trips in Fort Smith, MT
  • Image of clients holding their brown trout catch on the bighorn River in Fort Smith, MT with Ryan Stefek Outfitters, RSO

BIRD & VARMINT HUNTING GEAR

Bird & Prairie Dog Hunts

  • Shotgun and shells (bird hunts)

  • Eye and ear protection

  • Bird vest or shell pouch

  • Shooting mat or portable bench (prairie dog hunts)

  • Bipod or shooting rest

  • Plenty of ammo (prairie dog hunts)

FLY FISHING GEAR

If you’re joining us for a fishing trip or adding fishing to your hunt:

  • Waders and wading boots

  • Sunglasses (polarized preferred)

  • Rain jacket

Let us know ahead of time if you need help with gear recommendations.

  • Man smiling as he holds a massive 4 point mule deer buck he harvested with RSO Outfitters during a guided Whitetail Deer Hunt
  • Man holding antelope horns he harvested with RSO Outfitters during a guided antelope hunt

LICENSES & DOCUMENTS

Licenses & Permits

You are responsible for having the proper licenses and permits.

  • Montana hunting or fishing license

  • Species-specific permits or tags

  • Conservation licenses (if applicable)

  • Personal ID

If you’re unsure what you need, call Ryan before the season and we’ll walk you through it.

PERSONAL ITEMS

  • Toiletries

  • Medications

  • Sunscreen and lip balm

  • Camera or phone for photos

  • Small backpack or duffel

Lodging includes basic amenities, but bring what you need to be comfortable.

WHAT NOT TO WORRY ABOUT

We’ve Got This Covered

You don’t need to bring:

  • Lodging gear

  • Meals (included on most trips)

  • Field care equipment

  • Fly rod, reel, and line

  • Flies

If something comes up, we’ll do our best to help once you’re here.