Parks' Fly Shop

Janson Janson

2023-11

Wonderful, fly shop, very helpful sharing information on where and how to find some fish. Booked a guide too, Jarrett was awesome, super knowledgeable, we learned a lot and my 12 year old son had a great time with him. It was a cold windy day, yet walked away warmed with joy.

Hans Hintzen

2023-08

Whether you are new to the sport, or an experienced angler, Parks’ Fly Shop is an outstanding resource for fly fishers. My brother and I have been fly fishing in Yellowstone National Park for well over 30 years, and we still hire Parks’ to guide us. Richard’s knowledge of YNP and the rivers nearby, outside The Park, is unsurpassed, and he has surrounded himself with an incredible crew of guides. I really can’t say enough about our recent (last week) float and walk/wade trips with them. Kody, Rob, Trevor, Clancy and Ethan are all accomplished anglers who will put you on big fish, often on a dry fly. If you want a truly memorable fly fishing experience, hire Parks’ as your guide.

Larry Morroni

2023-08

I spent a week in Gardiner with my 17 year old son. Parks' Fly Shop was our "goto" for everything we needed, and we needed a lot! My son is a beginner fly fisherman and even though I have been doing it for awhile, I'm not much more than a novice. We booked a trip with Trevor for the first day of our trip to get a lay of the land and some help with casting and tactics. It was the perfect guided trip for what we needed. Trevor was knowledgeable, pleasant, and just fun to fish with. It helped that we caught a TON of fish! We both took a lot of lessons away from the day that we were able to use for the remainder of the week. It was easy to establish a relationship with the crew at Parks' Fly Shop and they came through for us in spades. Trevor helped us fix some reel problems and even gave us a loaner to use while it was being worked on. Shop Manager, Kody, greeted us with genuine questions and knowledgeable answers. Without fail, they all put us onto fish, including Ethan and Clancy. When we had boot issues, Richard himself hooked us up with a pair to rent. We dealt with a lot of the staff at Parks and they were all great! If you are looking for a fly shop in the Gardiner area then do yourself a favor and stop in on the best of the best: Parks' Fly Shop.

James Kibler

2023-09

The guides out of this shop are fantastic. I brought 4 other members of my family on a float down the Yellowstone, with very different fly fishing skill levels. Every single person had a blast, learned a lot and caught fish. It was a tough group (3 boats, some folks had essentially no experience) but Rob, Clancy and Trevor did an amazing job.Beyond that, several days later I stopped into the shop to ask about a trip I was planning around Montana. Trevor, Clancy and Richard gave great advice and were happy to do it despite no direct financial benefit to them. They were just stoked to help. This is a top notch group of people.

Daniel Renner

2023-10

The beauty of Yellowstone is only rivaled by the personality and passion for the outdoors that our guide Trevor has. He has set the standard to which we will base every trip we have going forward, but I know it’s an impossible standard to meet. If you are fishing, hiking, cross country skiing, or snowshoeing you will be at a loss if you aren’t using parks fly shop. We will only be using them for future guiding trips and I can not wait to book the next one!

Charles Runge

2022-05

If you are looking for an incredible fly fishing experience, go to Parks Fly Shop. Ask for Trevor or Cody. Both of these guides are knowledgeable, experienced, patient and friendly. They can guide you to areas that are typically un fished and off the beaten path. We spent two days with them and caught 15 to 20 fish each day.

Jonathan Bond

2019-05

Popped in here looking for a couple of leaders and some mepps. Park's had a good selection of tackle and I was provided an excellent map of Yellowstone and the surrounding area. Here's a Yellowstone Lake Cutthroat caught on a Thomas Spoon purchased from Park's. Lure had the barbs pinched down and the fish was safely returned.

Brant Savander

2023-08

We just finished up fishing YNP and the area just north of Gardiner for 2 1/2 weeks. The fishing was incredible. We fished 4 days with Clancy, who is a pure natural outdoorsman. His skills are obvious. Watch him cast, and stack mends. We caught fish. Many of the fish we caught warranted photos. On two of of the days, we caught so many, that I just put the flyrod away, and pulled out a camera. All that said, Clancy is just fun to be around. He is personable, friendly, and has a great sense of humor. We already have our dates booked for next year.On the days we were not fishing with Clancy, we were inevitably in the shop nearly everyday. All of the guys at the shop, Richard, Kody, Trevor, Rob, and Ethan, were wonderful. They all helped with pointing out new water, noting the flys that were fishing well, and answering any odd-ball question about the park or the region. Like I said in the previous paragraph, we already have our dates for next year.

Joel Nelson

2023-05

Service AND great advice, just as I remember it. Talked to Richard on the phone today and he spent 30 minutes going over a potential trip inside and outside of the park. We talked recent flood-water changes, and what that may do to the fishing, time of year/seasonality, hatches, locations, rivers, and alot of specifics I'm not used to being able to chat someone up about here in the Midwest. I spent a summer out there, and his knowledge was incredible. Even better that he was willing to share it. I plan to pick up my supplies there when I next make my way to Gardiner, and get some great fishing information to boot!

Alan Andrews

2021-05

We called Parks' Fly shop when we were a day away from Yellowstone to schedule a full day fly fishing trip. Richard Parks', the owner, was kind enough to take my wife and I out personally, since his other guides had already been scheduled for the day we wanted.Richard asked about our level of experience, goals for the trip and level of fitness so he could prepare for our trip. We met in Gardiner at 8 am and got on the road after getting our rubber boots. He took us to a spot off the beaten path that required some hiking, but once we got to the fishing spot, it was total isolation and we caught some nice rainbows.He answered our questions about tying knots, the choice of flies, casting and choosing the proper location that isn't over fished. We had a marvelous day and felt lucky that Richard was able to take us out and provide a wonderful fishing experience.

C P

2022-05

We arranged for a guided fly fishing trip for our 3 boys through Park's. This was their first time trying it and their guide Trevor made it an unforgettable experience. Everyone at the shop was super helpful and great to speak with. Trevor had all 3 of our boys catching fish right away and they came back happy and ready to go again. Thank you Parks, and especially Trevor, for a great introduction to fly fishing!

Nate Arrants

2020-05

Had an awesome walking/waxing trip in the park with Trevor. He asked us before the trip whether we wanted to catch big fish or a lot of fish, to which we chose big. He took us to a beautiful area we hadn’t ever thought to go before and I got an 18-20 inch brown trout. Highly recommend parks fly shop as this trip was great and I’ve caught fish on almost every fly combo they’ve recommended over the past few months.

Andy Wildenberg

2022-05

Absolutely love these guys. Had rented XC skis multiple times in the past and been super happy. Now we own our equipment so we visit less, but today we needed a part and they came through for us again.Working with these guys is always a little unusual, but just trust them and they'll totally come through for you, even if it's not quite in the exact way you would have expected.I recommend these guys completely.

Ifford Taylor

2022-05

My wife and I stopped in for a visit and to look around. The owner was very nice and helped us to understand the casting process. I would have purchased several items but we are traveling with limited storage space. I would recommend anyone to stop in and see the owner for any of your fly fishing needs.

Haiqiao Zhang

2022-05

Cody is knowledged of Yellowstone waters. And he is a very nice guy. Couple days ago , I walked into the shop at morning and totally no clue where to fish that day and what to use .He help me choose flies and give me fishing places suggestions. I caught some beautiful trout that day. Thanks Cody !

Daniel Aguanno

2019-05

My partner and I hired Rob Olson from Park's Fly Shop as a guide for 2 full days of fly fishing on 7/8/18 & 7/9/18. We are both avid fisherman onspinning/conventional reels but very much a novice when it comes to fly fishing. Richard and Walt did a great job answering all of our questions when organizing our trip. Rob did an excellent job connecting, coordinating, and communicating all details the day prior to our scheduled trip. He even accommodated a vegan lunch request. Our first day was a walk and wade adventure through Yellowstone park. We started on a small creek fishing for wild brookies to get comfortable with the rod and fish. Within a few hours, Rob had as hammering monster cutthroats while surrounded by bison, elk, bald eagles, coyotes, mule deer, magpies, and prairie dogs. The next day was a float trip down the Yellowstone River in Gardiner. We hit the grand slam by catching cutthroat, brown, rainbow, and whitefish. Fishing was consistently awesome all day long. Once again, we shared the experience with a ton of wildlife including osprey, bald eagles, and river otters! Rob brings 18+ years of experience. He is knowledgeable, patient, enthusiastic, accommodating, and a great teacher. He gave us the confidence and knowledge to catch trout as we hiked in the backcountry of Yellowstone the following 5 days. I highly highly recommend you to hire Rob Olson from Park's Fly Shop. The only reason I gave it 4 stars instead of 5 is because the store leaves a little to be desired. While the staff and guide service is top notch, the storefront is limited in inventory if you are looking to make a serious purchase.

Robin Paczosa

2021-05

Wow! What an experience. Cody and Parks Fly Shop had us on fish all day. He new exactly what flies to use in each area of the river. Richards Knowledge of the river is amazing. We’ll be back soon.Great Day Cody and RichardThanks again

Gavin Paczosa

2021-05

Cody is the man and Parks Fly Shop is the SPOT!We had an amazing day fishing the Yellowstone. Cody put us on the fish throughout the entire day and taught a rookie like myself a few new new tricks. I caught more fish than two seasoned fly fishing veterans. Thanks Cody!

Tom Wheeler

2017-05

Highly recommend Wally showed us rookies the ropes and had us on trout all day. My goal was for my wife to catch more than she did at Yosemite and she caught at least 10 times more. We really enjoyed the combo trip. Wouldn't look any further if you really want to fly fish! Thanks for a GREAT&T experience!

Marty Simonson

2016-05

Really great time, especially if you want an active fishing experience. Ask for Ben, he's really knowledgeable, energetic, and helpful. Went on full day trip: lunch, photos by Ben and his waterproof camera, rental gear were all included. Yellowstone National Park Fishing LIcense extra. This was my first time fly fishing, and Ben helped me land 21 fish! Great place if you want to fish for Grayling, Cutthroat Trout, and Brown Trout.

Robert Copeland

2014-05

A terrible experience for a first time fly fishing trip. I hopped to learn some basics to get started in fly fishing and instead all I had was a difficult hike to a steam and then was so tired out I could not navigate the rocky stream bed to our fishing site.It started when we booked the trip. The owner, Richard, asked me if I had any physical restrictions and I just said I have bad knees. We asked if we need special shoes or waders. He said the price for 1/2day for 2 people was 325 plus cost of fly's used. We were told we could wear sneakers.We arrive at the store on the day of our trip and met our guide Wally. He informed us we really need special shoes we could rent for $10 per person. We agreed and he had us try them on. The boots were to big for both of us, but we were told the run in full sizes only and the next size smaller would not fit. We had worn half socks,expecting to be wading in sneakers. Had I known we were using high boots I would have used my hiking socks.We then spent about 5 or 10 minutes being shown how to cast a fly rod on the empty ally next to store. We were not got the hang of it being told that the practice rods were shorter and we would be working with a longer rod.We drove to Yellowstone Park put our boots on, and started following Wally up the trail. I had trouble keeping up with the pace. He did tell us the root gets rougher and offered to turn around and try a different area 20 minutes away. I thought we had already hiked 10 min on the trail and I could do it. We went up hill, over fallen trees, down a steep hill and then through what I thought was a meadow, but turned out to be a marsh. I sunk to my calf in the mud. I struggled through with shaking legs and made it to the stream bank. My boots were filled with mud and stones. We had to cross the stream in calf high water and slippery rocks under foot. I could not do it. I stumbled to the bank and sat down unable to go further. I urged my wife to continue. She left with Wally and I sat on the stream bank for almost 2 hours. They returned and Wally urged me up stream to try fishing where he had said there would be no fish. I made a few casts and tangled the line and Wally took the rod from me to demonstrate again. He fished for about 5 min and then we headed back. Wally was well in front of us and stopped a few times to cast and he actually caught a trout.My experience, 5 min casting on an empty lot, 3 or 4 casts on a stream, a long hike and a few hours with a guide who's only conversation was about fly fishing.He did remove $25 from our bill, charging for only one person trip. We paid for the trip, boots that did not fit, and a long hike.Richard knew we were beginners. He should have gotten us a proper guide and the trip should have been to a more easily accessible fishing hole. I am completely turned off to fly fishing. I am 67 yr. old who has been hiking for the last 3 months. My wife is 8 yrs. younger and in better shape then me.I would not recommend this company and guide to a first timer.

Bradley Ford

2018-05

Small shop but good selection of flies. The gentleman working was knowledgeable and helped me to begin thinking about a trip there in the future. I did not see a lot of rods or gear for sale, but since that was not my reason for being there I could have missed them. When back in Gardiner I will stop in again.

Jah Bless

2010-05

I've lived in Gardiner for 7 years and am an avid fly fisherman. Because of the poor service I have received and lack of selection at Parks', I choose to patronize shops in Livingston instead.Richard is a nice guy and I have always found him friendly and helpful, but the other (younger) members of his staff have not treated me with a great deal of respect. This is the general consensus among people in Gardiner as well. I'm not sure how they treat tourists, but most of the people I know around Gardiner avoid this place.

Jason L Vrooman-Flynn-ONeal

2022-05

Cool Old Man..Parks been at the park since leave it to beaver was on TV once a week!Nice selection of flys and everything you need to fish or Nordic ski...The skiing not so easy...Fishing more this old man's speed

Marcus-Alan Gilbert

2023-05

Unfortunately my schedule and needs did not allow us to go fishing with Park's Fly Shop but from the sheer thoroughness of their replies and very detailed questionnaire I can tell that they are very diligent and caring and even referred us to another vendor. Next time I will DEFINITELY consider them. Thank you very much Walter.

Jason Long

2020-05

I stop here every year on my way in to the park to fish. They’re always great with intel and tips, and they have excellent flies tied with local waters in mind. Some great books on fishing the park have come out of this shop, too. They are definitely the local experts

Brittany Musa

2023-05

Rented cross country skis here with my friends. Mr. Parks went above and beyond and made our experience amazing! Highly recommend!!

Danny Diaz

2022-05

Awesome little shop. Got some great tips for the area I was fishing in Yellowstone and picked up some flies. Caught a whole bunch when I went out the next day. Success all around.

Peter Thalmann

2014-05

I fished with Ben in June 2013. We fished 2 small creeks Tenkara style for Cutts. The fishing was outstanding. Ben is a great guide with plenty of knowledge, stories and enthusiasm. Ben took me to great places when the other fly shops said the water was too high to fish creeks in June... Ben was right, he knew the spots. I highly recommend Park's Fly Shop and Ben in particular.

Keven Borchardt

2022-05

Should probably just print people a MT fishing license instead of have them do it then selves. Some people are old fashioned and will probably hang out and buy more tackle. And you don't know maybe they don't have enough money in their bank account to get one online. So just do what the customer asks?