Flathead Valley Montana Fin Fest 2026

The Flathead Valley Chapter is taking a break from a traditional banquet & fund-raiser and trying something new, the Flathead Fin Fest.  This family-friendly event is free and will be held on Saturday May 16, noon to 4pm, at Snappy Sport Senter (a well-known sporting goods retailer in Kalispell, MT).   Snappy has a pond behind the retail building that is stocked with some big, fat trout.  Any kid 12 and under is welcome to try their luck with assistance from chapter members.  Fishing poles and tackle will be provided at no charge.  There is also a “gear swap” with several tables groaning under the weight of used casting lures, fly tying materials, walleye jigs, trout flies, spin cast rods, nets, hunting supplies and more.  All materials have been donated and proceeds benefit the chapter.  We are also planning a short range fly casting area and a fly tying demo.  But wait there’s more.  There will  silent auctions and raffle prizes drawn every hour.  Hourly raffle tickets are free and will be handed out at the entrance.  Plus the grand prize of a 14’ NRS fishing raft.  Food trucks will be standing by so no one goes away hungry.