Capt. Carter Bates’ journey into the world of fishing began in his home state of Virginia, where he was immersed in the great outdoors from an early age. From chasing Striped Bass in the saltwater to fishing for Trout in the mountain streams, Carter's love for the sport grew with each passing year.
His passion for saltwater fly fishing led him to South Florida, where countless hours in the shallows of Florida Bay, Biscayne Bay, and the Everglades cemented his dedication to the craft. After years of guiding in the Florida Keys, Carter’s heart was pulled back to the world of freshwater trout fishing following a trip to Montana in 2001. The stunning rivers and mountains of Big Sky Country inspired him to return each year, guiding in both the Florida Keys and Montana.
Today, Carter is based full-time in Montana, but he continues to spend a month each year in Florida, guiding clients and creating unforgettable fishing experiences. Whether you’re chasing wild trout on a pristine river or pursuing the thrill of a saltwater catch, Carter’s wealth of experience and deep passion for fishing makes him the perfect guide for any adventure.
With extensive experience in both freshwater and saltwater fishing, Capt. Carter Bates brings a unique blend of skills to each adventure. His dual expertise in guiding in both the Florida Keys and Montana allows him to provide diverse and specialized fishing experiences tailored to clients’ needs. Carter takes a personalized, hands-on approach, ensuring that each trip is not only enjoyable but also educational. His deep passion for conservation and preserving the natural environments he works in shines through in every trip he leads. When he's not on the water, Carter can be found in the field behind his pointing dogs, chasing birds, continuing his deep connection with the outdoors.
