Different Types of Fishing Trips Explained

Whether you’re fishing on a river or a lake, the water sets the pace for the day. Some anglers like to step into the current, move slowly along the bank, and study each stretch of water. Others enjoy drifting downstream by boat and watching the landscape unfold between casts. In the Jackson Hole and Greater Yellowstone region, different types of fishing trips offer their own ways to experience the water, scenery, and rhythm of the outdoors.

Wade Fishing

Wade fishing is a guided fishing experience in which anglers fish on foot rather than from a boat. Guests may walk along the riverbank, step into shallow sections of water, and cast into runs, riffles, pools, and other likely holding areas.

Wade fishing is a good fit for guests who want a slower, more hands-on day outside. Beginners have time to learn the basics, ask questions, and build confidence. Experienced anglers can focus on presentation, water movement, and technique. It’s an active style of fishing, and you’ll move carefully from one promising stretch of water to the next.

Half-Day Wade Fishing Trips

Western River Anglers offers half-day wade fishing trips on the Snake River and nearby tributaries, including Flat Creek. These trips last about 3.5 to 4.5 hours on the water, which makes them a practical option for guests who want a shorter outing. They include guide service, equipment, shore snacks, drinks, transportation, and hotel pickup and drop-off in the Jackson Hole area.

Full-Day Wade Fishing Trips

We also offer full-day wade fishing trips that last roughly 8 hours. A longer day gives you more time to settle into the experience, explore different water, and adjust to the conditions as they change. Full-day wade trips are offered on Yellowstone National Park waters, including the Firehole and Lewis rivers, as well as Snake River tributaries. They include guide service, equipment, shore lunch or snacks, drinks, and transportation.

Float Fishing

Float fishing trips take place from a drift boat while the guide rows, steers, and positions the boat through productive sections of the river. Instead of walking from place to place, anglers move downstream with the current, covering more water throughout the day. The experience often blends active fishing with sweeping views, quiet stretches, and the feeling of traveling through the landscape.

On a float trip, guests can expect the guide to help with fly selection, casting angles, and boat position. This option can be especially enjoyable for anglers who want to see more of the river without spending the day walking between access points. For guests comparing different types of fishing trips, float fishing offers a scenic and comfortable way to experience fly fishing in Jackson Hole, Wyoming.

Full-Day Float Fishing Trips

We offer full-day float fishing trips for two anglers per boat. A third angler may be able to join for an additional fee, as long as the total guest weight in the boat does not exceed 500 pounds. These trips give guests time to move through longer sections of water while fishing from the drift boat. Full-day float trips are available on the Snake River, Salt River, Green River/New Fork Rivers, Yellowstone National Park waters, and the Bighorn River.

Big Boat Float Fishing

Western River Anglers’ family and group fishing trips use a custom Clacka Max drift boat that accommodates up to 5 guests. Two anglers can fish at a time, while the rest of the group can relax, watch the water, and enjoy the scenery. This setup is designed for families or groups who want to share the same day on the water. It offers a relaxed way to rotate between fishing, learning, and simply taking in the surroundings.

Customizable Experiences for Every Group

Your trip can be customized around your group’s goals, comfort level, and fishing experience. Some guests come ready for a focused day of fishing and instruction, while others want a slower pace with time to relax and enjoy the scenery. With a customizable fishing trip and local guide, you can enjoy the Greater Yellowstone region in a way that fits your group’s pace and interests.

Family Fishing Trips

Family fishing trips are designed for groups with varying ages, comfort levels, and levels of fishing experience. Kids, beginners, intermediate anglers, experienced guests, and senior adults can all spend the same day on the water. The focus is on creating a relaxed shared experience.

Fishing for All Skill Levels

Guided trips can be tailored for every skill level. Beginners can learn how to handle the equipment, make basic casts, choose the right spots, and understand what the guide is looking for in the water. For seasoned anglers, the trip can become a chance to refine skills and ask specific questions.

Choose Your Destination

Western River Anglers offers destination-specific fishing trips across the Jackson Hole and Greater Yellowstone region. These waters are known for cold, clear rivers and mountain scenery. Each destination has its own character, from broad river corridors to quieter tributaries and lake settings.

Some popular destinations include:

• Snake River: A classic Jackson Hole river known for clear moving water, mountain scenery, and beautiful stretches near Grand Teton National Park.

• Yellowstone National Park waters: A memorable setting where anglers can experience meadows, forested stretches, and other classic park scenery.

• Green River: A peaceful river known for wide-open landscapes, productive water, and long stretches well-suited for a scenic float.

• Salt River: A quieter regional river with peaceful scenery, open valley views, and a different perspective on the surrounding landscape.

Fishing Licenses and Trip Details

Before your day on the water, make sure you have the required fishing license for the specific area you’ll be fishing. Requirements can vary depending on the destination, such as waters in the Jackson Hole area, Yellowstone National Park waters, or rivers that cross into nearby states. The details will be clarified when you’ve chosen your trip, so you know what license or permit you need before you arrive.

Choosing the right guided trip starts with the kind of day guests want to spend on the water. Wade fishing offers a closer, more active connection to the river, while float fishing creates a moving view of the landscape from a drift boat. With several trip formats and regional waters to explore, you’re sure to enjoy a memorable day in the Jackson Hole and Greater Yellowstone area.