Private Lakes Fly Fishing
Story Lake, Burns Lake, and limited Merrell Lake access give us a quiet stillwater option when the timing is right. These days are about space, steady instruction, and a calmer pace than the rivers — a great fit for newer anglers, families, or anyone who wants a break from crowds.
Quiet Water, Controlled Access
Private lakes are a different kind of Montana day. Instead of covering current, we’re working structure: drop-offs, weed edges, cruising lanes, and wind-driven seams. It’s a great change of pace for river anglers, and it’s one of the best classrooms we have for building fundamentals without pressure.
These lakes also earn their place in a plan because they give us control. When rivers are crowded, off-color, or in runoff, a private stillwater day can be the difference between “hoping” and having a solid fishing day.
Ice-Out Through Early Summer
The most consistent window is typically ice-out into late spring and early summer. Cold, clear water keeps trout active and shallow, and we can build simple plans around depth control and clean presentations.
- Late April–May: prime “ice-out” feel on many seasons.
- May–June: steady fishing with room to learn and refine.
- Early fall (some years): a bonus window when temps cool back down.
Wind Is Part of Stillwater
Wind isn’t a problem — it’s information. It positions food, creates lanes, and can turn a lake on. The key is having a plan: where to start, where to tuck in, when to anchor, and when to move.
- We pick the right lake for the forecast.
- We fish wind lanes and structure instead of fighting it.
- If conditions say “river day,” we’ll tell you that too.
Story, Burns, and Merrell
Story Lake
The most “plug-and-play” private lake option in our rotation when conditions line up. Plenty of room to cast, comfortable pacing, and a great place to learn stillwater fundamentals that transfer everywhere.
- Best for: learning, families, and steady fishing days
- Style: structure + cruising lanes + simple depth plans
- Pairs well with: Yellowstone or spring creek days for variety
Burns Lake
A classic stillwater feel: edges, depth changes, and seasonal bite windows that can be excellent when timed right. When the surface game is on, it’s one of the most memorable lake days you can have in the region.
- Best for: anglers who like a more “hunt and read” stillwater day
- Style: edges, lanes, and seasonal surface opportunities
- Pairs well with: a freestone float when you want two different styles
Merrell Lake (Limited Access)
Merrell is treated as a special add-on with seasonal availability and limited access. When the window and access line up, it can be an outstanding stillwater day in a dramatic setting. If it doesn’t line up, we don’t force it — we build the best plan on Story or Burns instead.
- Best for: anglers who want a “destination-style” private lake day
- Reality: limited availability — we confirm before we build it into a trip
Stillwater, Kept Simple
Most lake success comes down to three things: depth, tempo, and where fish want to cruise. We’ll keep the plan straightforward, then add detail if you want to go deeper.
Core Patterns
- Leeches and baitfish-style patterns for steady opportunities
- Midges/chironomids when trout are feeding in lanes and basins
- Seasonal bugs: damsels/callibaetis when they line up
- Terrestrials (when it makes sense): fun surface windows
How the Day Runs
- Start with a clean depth plan and repeatable casts
- Use wind lanes and edges instead of random drifts
- Adjust depth and retrieve before changing the whole plan
- When it’s a teaching day, we build skills you’ll use on rivers too
A Great Option for Beginners and Mixed Groups
Beginners & Families
Stillwater gives you room to learn without heavy current. We can focus on casting, hook sets, and clean retrieves at a relaxed pace. Private access also keeps the day quieter and more controlled.
Intermediate & Advanced
If you want to sharpen presentation, this is it: longer leaders, better line control, and learning how fish move with light, wind, and structure. It’s also a perfect “reset day” in the middle of a river-heavy trip.
Private Lakes Q&A
When are the private lakes best?
Ice-out through late spring and early summer is the most consistent. Some years bring a second window when temps cool in early fall.
Boat or shore?
Depends on the lake and the day. We’ll choose the best setup (boat, anchored approach, or select bank water) to match wind, temps, and your comfort level.
Do I need stillwater experience?
No. We’ll keep it simple and effective. If you want the technical version, we can go there — but you don’t need it to have a great day.
How does Merrell work if access is limited?
We treat it as a special add-on. If the window and access line up for your dates, we’ll recommend it. If not, we’ll build the best day on Story or Burns.
If you already have dates, book your lake day now. If you’re still sorting timing, text us your dates and where you’re staying. We’ll tell you if a private lake day fits your week, or if you’ll be better off on the Yellowstone, spring creeks, or another option.
What You’re Booking
- Private-lake stillwater day planned around wind and temps
- Beginner-friendly instruction or more technical stillwater if you want it
- We pick Story, Burns, or Merrell (when available) for the best fit
Ready to Lock In Dates?
- Simple plan: book dates, then we match the best lake to conditions
- Quiet water option when rivers are crowded or off-color
- Clear expectations on access and timing (especially Merrell)
Conservation & Professional Affiliations
Supporting local rivers, professional instruction, and long-term guide development through these organizations.
