We’ve put together some amazing packages for the auction, but we are adding more weekly so come back often!

Live Auction Packages

Argentina Fishing Adventure

Value: $11,200

A seven-night, six-day vacation for two people at one of Argentina’s most luxurious fishing lodges. The Carrileufu River Lodge is located in the Carrileufu River Valley near the quaint town of Cholila. Perfectly positioned to take advantage of the terrific fishing opportunities of the region, including storied places like Los Alerces National Park and the famed rivers Rivadavia, Arrayanes, Carrileufu, and Chubut. The lodge has quick access to several floats on the Carrileufu River that offer world-class fishing just minutes from the lodge. Anglers can target a variety of trout species including rainbow, brown, and brook trout as well as shots at landlocked Atlantic salmon. Under the careful guidance of owner, head guide, and consummate host Pancho Panzer, guests feel immediately at home at this intimate family-run lodge. Includes luxury lodging, all food, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, and fine Argentina wines. Does not include airfare or gratuities.

Our thanks to Pancho Panzer, and Carrileufu River Lodge.

Bitterroot Lodge, Your Own Private Fishing Lodge

Value: $5,500

Up to six people can enjoy their own private fishing lodge on the legendary Bitterroot River just outside of Missoula! The Bitterroot River Lodge is a family-owned lodge bordering 440 acres of wildlife refuge. It includes a three night stay for up to six people in the three-bedroom lodge. Includes welcome dinner, and hearty breakfasts each day. Does not include guide service, but they would be happy to help arrange. Not available in June or July. Contact lodge for availability.

Our thanks to Donn McAfee and Bitterroot River Lodge.

Playa Viva Mexico Beach Vacation

Value: $2,070

A four-night stay for two adults at one of Mexico’s premier eco-lodges. Enjoy a beachfront adventure on 200 private acres just 30 minutes from Zihuantanejo, in the guilt-free luxury of an environmentally conscious resort dedicated to sustainability and regenerative practices. Includes lodging in a Queen Eco Casita or equivalent room. Immerse yourself in nature, attend our morning yoga practice or even host a beachside yoga retreat, volunteer in the turtle sanctuary, give back to the local community, or just relax completely in paradise. (Does not include airfare, and not available Christmas and New Year’s weeks)

Includes: 
• Transportation to and from ZIH airport
• 3 gourmet meals a day + snacks prepared by our chefs
• All taxes, tips, and a donation to the Regenerative Trust
• All non-alcoholic and non-blended drinks
• Ocean-side morning yoga 6 days a week
• Wi-Fi in common areas

Our thanks to David Leventhal and Playa Viva.

Once-in-a-Lifetime Day of Fishing on Perk Perkins Private Spring Creek

Orvis legend Perk Perkins has kindly donated a very special day of fishing on his private spring creek near Lincoln, Montana – 90 minutes east of Missoula. Two lucky anglers will fish for West Slope Cutthroat on small dries and terrestrials. This water is best fished with a 3 or 4 weight rod (which Perk will provide if needed – and I bet it will be an Orvis). You might also have a shot at catching a 25”+ brown in one of the Spring Ponds that feeds the Spring Creek. Date to be selected in July, August, or early September.

Silent Auction Items & Packages

Fishpond Package

Value: $285

Blue River Chest / Lumbar Pack. A staple in the Fishpond line since our inception. Can be worn as a lumbar, chest pack, sling pack, or mounted onto our Switchback Wading Belt System. Retail Value $99.95

Nomad Emerger Net. Constructed with carbon fiber/fiberglass composite material. Waterproof, UV protected, and floats like a cork. Designed to work with both packs and vests. The longer handle can easily tuck behind a pack but is not too long to hang off the back of a vest. Retail Value $159.95

Fishpond Hat. Retail value $24.95

Our thanks to Fishpond.

Yellow Dog Gift Certificate

Value: $1000

Yellow Dog Flyfishing Adventures has donated a $1000 certificate that can be applied to any multi-day trip package for any domestic or international destination in the Yellow Dog line-up. This certificate can be used to book any trip to more than 245 different lodges and outfitting operations in 33 different countries. The winner of this certificate can redeem the credit any time prior to December 31, 2024. Please contact Yellow Dog for additional details, options, and dates.

Our thanks to Yellow Dog Fly Fishing.

Winston Pure Fly Rod

Value: $895

PUREDRY FLY AND DELICATE PRESENTATION ROD.

5 weight, 9 foot.

The PURE series won IFTD’s Best of Show for freshwater rods in 2018, and for good reason: The ability of these medium-action rods to present flies in a delicate and accurate manner is unmatched, making them perfect for technical waters like the Henry’s Fork, spring creeks and backcountry beaver ponds filled with wary brookies. All rods come with our graphite tube and logo rod sock.

Our thanks to R.L. Winston Rod Company

Livingston Fly Rod

Value: $800

This is your opportunity to have a custom fly rod built to your exact specifications. Livingston Fly Rod is a boutique builder of rods based in Livingston, Montana. They specialize in graphite and fiberglass rods that are especially revered by dry fly fishermen. And a Livingston is not like the glass and graphite rods you might remember from a generation ago. The craftsman of Livingston utilize the latest materials and designs to create responsive, accurate rods that are a pleasure to fish, and will become a family heirloom. The winner of this item can contact Livingston to custom design their own rod, including weight, length, and materials. Rods include silver nickel reel seats, and unique burled-wood inserts.

Our thanks to Livingston Fly Rod  

Columbia Sportswear Luggage Set

Value: TBA

Details coming – will be delivered to Missoula.

Our thanks to Jason Schuyler and Columbia Sportswear.

Helium Atmos Pickleball Set

Value: $150

A great set for anyone interested in playing the fastest growing sport in the country, including 4 paddles, case, and pickleballs. Made from high grade woven carbon fiber for better spin and control. Optimized surface area featured on the 16”x 8” paddle gives you a larger sweet spot for precision shots. USAPA Pickleball Approved.

Simms G3 Guide Z Duffel Bag

Value: $299

Simm’s most advanced waterproof duffel. Features Tru-Zip – a waterproof self-healing zipper. 100% waterproof and submersible.

Our thanks to Simms.

Simms G3 Guide Backpack

Value: $299

420-denier nylon double-ripstop construction with a TPU coating to ensure waterproof integrity and adventure-ready durability. A roll-top closure ensures waterproof protection for all your gear, while a sleeve behind the front pocket keeps your net handy.

Our thanks to Simms.

The Vintage Streamside Bartenders Kit

Value: $249

Perfect for elegant streamside cocktails, includes a waxed canvas bag trimmed in leather, 13-piece bartenders set, and two bottles of Montgomery Distilleries award winning liquors.

Handmade Neck Knife with Hand-Tooled Leather Sheath

Value: $200

This handmade knife, constructed of 5100 ball-bearing triple tempered steel, and an Arizona ironwood handle, was crafted by master bladesmith Erik Fritz of Forsyth, Montana. Includes a hand tooled leather belt sheath made by Glen Simenson.

Our thanks to Robert Majerus and Erik Fritz.

Live Auction Artwork

Bear, by Jim Klug

Value: Priceless

Jim is not only one of the founders of Yellow Dog Fly Fishing Adventures, but he is also a renowned outdoor photographer. His work has been featured worldwide, in publications that include The LA Times, The Drake, Fly Fusion, Fly Fisherman, and many others. This 30 by 40 framed black and white photo recently sold at auction for $8800, and Jim has been kind enough to donate another copy to Hooks for Books.

Our Thanks to Jim Klug.

Bitterroot Brown, by George Hill

Value: $4000

Hooks for Books artist-in-residence George Hill has created this special painting just for this year’s event. 

About George: George Hill (b.1982-) is a contemporary realist painter based in Missoula, Montana. He composes his paintings mostly in the style of portraiture to emote in the viewer a strong sense of reverence for the subject. Blending realism with more contemporary elements in his paintings, he hopes to create a uniquely engaging and emotive experience for his viewers.

 

Hill’s choice of subject matter is largely influenced by his affinity for wilderness areas and the creatures that reside within them. He is an avid outdoorsman and fly fisherman. Hill spent several years as a young man pursuing large trout with his fly rod in Patagonia, Argentina. These years were profoundly influential for the artist and his work. With each portrayal on canvas, Hill hopes to raise a sense of awareness and importance for these creatures, as their health is indicative of flourishing ecosystems and wilderness spaces.