MEET OUR TEAM

Experienced Guides & Dedicated Staff

At Grizzly Hackle Fly Shop, our team is more than just staff—we’re dedicated anglers, expert guides, and passionate fly fishing enthusiasts. We’ve built a crew that’s second to none in customer service, local fishing knowledge, and a genuine love for the sport. Whether you're visiting our downtown Missoula shop or heading out on the river with one of our experienced guides, we’re here to make your Montana fly fishing experience unforgettable. There’s a reason we’re consistently voted the best fly shop in town—no egos, no snobs, just a friendly, knowledgeable team ready to help you gear up and get on the water.

OWNER

Brendan Bannigan

Brendan graduated from the University of Montana with a bachelor’s degree in both environmental studies and history. A life-long angler, Brendan was a customer of the Grizzly Hackle first, an employee beginning in 2009, and its proud owner as of January 2016. If he’s not in the shop, you’ll find him exploring Montana’s rivers and streams looking for big trout. Brendan is also a salt-water fanatic and dreams about chasing permit. Brendan and his family live in Missoula.

RETAIL MANAGER

Matt Bryn

Matt is a native of Missoula, MT. His love of the outdoors started at birth as he was always fishing and hunting with his dad. Matt didn’t watch cartoons or play video games as a kid – he wanted to be outside! After he graduated from the University of Montana – Western in Dillon, he became a full time fisherman guiding the rivers of SW Montana. Although Matt is done guiding, his love of fly fishing has kept him in the business. Matt’s biggest passion in life is big game hunting for Deer and Elk.

OUTFITTING MANAGER

Rick Marcum

Rick grew up fishing for bass and bluegill in the midwest. He caught his first big bass at age 7 and it was all downhill from there. All he ever thought about was fishing. In college, his roommate ended up being a fly fishing guide from Libby, MT. He introduced Rick to fly fishing for trout and it didn’t take long for him to get addicted to fly fishing and trout. Since then he has been pursuing trout and other species on a fly rod. Rick runs the outfitting business out of the Grizzly Hackle and has since 2012. If you have any guided trip questions or end up booking you’ll talk to Rick at some point.

E-COMMERCE MANAGER

Aidan Morton

Born and raised in Montana, Aidan moved all around the state before landing in Missoula to attend the University of Montana. He grew up fishing grasshoppers to hungry trout in the canal by his house and jigging for walleye in our state’s eastern waters. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in journalism and wilderness studies in 2021. When not in the shop, Aidan can be found experimenting at his tying desk, chasing horns and upland birds in the plains, and sharing laughs and cold ones with friends on his drift boat.

SHIPPING MANAGER

Reed Simlar

Born and raised in Detroit, Michigan, Reed has been a fisherman for as long as he can remember. Reed cut his teeth fly fishing by throwing mayflies, streamers and mice to finicky trout on the rivers of the north woods. His fourth year here in Missoula, Reed has taken quite a liking to the style and techniques used in Western Montana; especially the local pike fishing. He is currently finishing up his bachelor’s degree in parks, tourism, and recreation management and an associate’s degree in business administration from the University of Montana. On Reed’s off days you can find him straying off the beaten path and hiking deep into the backcountry to find those special fish that don’t see flies every day!

WANT TO JOIN THE TEAM?

We’re always excited to connect with passionate anglers and friendly faces who love fly fishing as much as we do. While we don’t have a formal careers page, we’d love to hear from you! If you're interested in potential opportunities, reach out through our Contact Form. 

OUR PHILOSOPHY

A Customer is a Lifelong Friend

At Grizzly Hackle, your experience is our priority. Whether it’s top-notch gear, custom flies, or expert advice, we’re here to make your Missoula fly fishing adventure unforgettable. Customers come in as clients but leave as friends.

On the River

Our experienced guides spend countless days on the water, ensuring the best fly fishing trips in Montana. From quality gear to expert instruction, we guarantee a memorable day or your money back.

Off the River

Beyond gear and guides, we’re committed to our community. Our Missoula fly shop supports stream restoration, volunteer locally, and partner with charities to keep Montana beautiful.