In the heart of Montana’s Ruby Valley, where the rivers run cold and the elk bugle loud, Rack & Reel has carved out a place for those chasing something more than just trophies. This isn’t your average hunting outfitter or fly fishing guide — it’s a family-run crew of seasoned storytellers, fire-cooked meal preppers, horse wranglers, and lifelong outdoorsmen who live, work, and play in this wild slice of Southwest Montana.
Hunting the Ruby Valley
The landscape alone makes hunting in this part of Montana something out of a dream. Rack & Reel specializes in fair chase private land hunts for elk, mule deer, whitetail, black bear, mountain lion, pronghorn antelope, and bison. With their 1:1 and 2:1 guided hunts, each experience is tailored to the guest’s needs, whether it’s an archery adventure deep in September’s crisp mornings or a late-season rifle trip through the frosty November hills.
Their all-inclusive packages include lodging, meals, beverages, and everything else you’d need short of your own boots. They’ll even drop your animal off for taxidermy and meat processing. For those chasing that rare big game combo, this crew knows where to go and how to get you there.
Learn more about their hunting guide services and get ready to saddle up.
Fishing: Dry Flies and Drift Boats
When the rivers warm and the bugs hatch, Rack & Reel shifts gears to their other passion: fly fishing. As a trusted fishing guide in Montana’s trout-laden waters, they offer guided trips on the Big Hole, Beaverhead, Madison, and Jefferson Rivers. These aren’t just day trips. These are river days that feel like chapters in a good book.
Whether you’re after browns or rainbows, Rack & Reel’s team provides everything you need, from the latest gear to the local wisdom on what’s biting. Their all-inclusive fly fishing packages include lodging and meals, or guests can book day trips and pair fishing with other adventures.
See their full list of fly fishing packages and start planning your next cast.
More Than a Guide—A Way of Life
What makes Rack & Reel stand apart isn’t just their knowledge of hunting units or their ability to put you on the fish—it’s their attitude. They call the Ruby Valley home and treat guests like extended family. Every hunt, every float, every story shared around the campfire is guided by one goal: creating an unforgettable Montana memory. They take pride in preserving the land, respecting the wildlife, and limiting bookings each year to ensure quality experiences and sustainable practices.
If you’re not hunting or fishing, you’re still welcome. Tag along as a non-hunter, soak in the beauty of the valley, and enjoy the peaceful rhythm of ranch life. At the end of the day, everyone comes back to the same lodge, the same meals, and the same sense of belonging.
Get to know the team, the place, and the philosophy behind this adventure-driven operation by visiting the About Us page.
Seasons, Licenses, and How to Book
Montana’s hunting and fishing seasons vary widely depending on species and method. Rack & Reel helps clients navigate application deadlines, license fees, and regulations through personalized service. A 35% deposit secures your spot—your bed and your guide—and trips are handled case-by-case. Whether you’re eyeing elk in September or casting flies in July, timing is everything, and the team is ready to help you plan it right.
Find all the up-to-date trip options and details on Rack & Reel’s website.
Final Cast
For anyone looking to experience Montana in a way that’s real, rugged, and refreshingly genuine, Rack & Reel is where you start. They’re more than just fly fishing guides and hunting outfitters. They’re the kind of folks you’d want at your campfire, the kind who know the land because they live on it, and the kind who make sure your stories are the ones worth telling.
