Finding a seriously high-quality, AK specialist in Montana is harder than discovering a Morrell…read moremushroom field. However, with research and perseverance, I recently discovered Shawn Fowler at Fowler Precision Arms. The quality of Shawn's work proved to be excellent and his prompt attention to the job was refreshing. All this at a reasonable price, too? Yup, a fraction of other quotes I received from both local squids and Westcoast-based influencers. Thank you, Shawn - I appreciate the prompt, great quality work at a reasonable price. And you can send business his way, too - I highly recommend his gunsmithing prowess.

Rack and Reel is a hidden gem. I was looking into going to Montana as a surprise trip (from New…read moreYork) for my husband and didn't know where to start - I googled many "dude ranch" type facilities but they seemed very commercial and strict with scheduling (arriving and leaving on specific days, scheduled activities on specific days). A friend of mine recommended Rack and Reel and after speaking with Ryan over the phone it seemed like a unicorn of trip - he was kind, flexible, open to whatever we wanted to do. We ended up booking and chose 4 different activities: Visiting Yellowstone, Horseback riding/cowboy experience, Mountain Lakes tour, Private luxury cabin trip in the mountains. We aren't hunting or fishing people and these were PERFECT trips for people like us, who wanted to get to know the area and do some adventuring! Here's the best part- We had a guide (Mitchell was amazing, and his wife Jen!) with us each day (so no googling "best places to see in Yellowstone"), had a personal chef (shoutout to Sam who LITERALLY made every single thing from scratch) at the lodge who listened to all our dietary preferences and needs (and was EXCELLENT)....and this was ALL INCLUSIVE (including packed lunches when we went on our trips!). We didn't have to take our wallets out throughout the week and it was fantastic. We even got to experience the local brewery in town one night! I absolutely recommend this trip and Rack & Reel whether it's for a couples getaway, girls or guys trip, you name it! 5+++ stars! Thank you to Michell, Jen, Sam, Ryan, and all who made it an amazing week for us! PS. If you go, make sure you spend the night at the private cabin - it's a luxury cabin that is beyond beautiful, super comfortable and feels very safe! It was an unforgettable experience!