Episode #1: Jim Klug – Yellow Dog Flyfishing, Bozeman, Montana

Tim sits down with Jim Klug, founder of Yellow Dog Flyfishing Adventures, to talk about travel, entrepreneurship, and what it means to build a global company while staying grounded in Montana.

Jim has spent decades connecting anglers to the best fly fishing experiences in the world. But at the core of it all is Bozeman, Montana. That’s where Yellow Dog is based. It’s where the team works, where the fly shop stands, and where the company’s values are rooted.

This episode offers more than business insight. It’s a look into the mindset of someone who chose to grow something big without losing sight of where he started.

Click here to listen to the audio-only version on Spotify.

Inside Yellow Dog Flyfishing

Yellow Dog Flyfishing Adventures is a full-service travel company focused exclusively on fishing. They offer trips to more than 250 destinations across over 40 countries, all vetted in person by their staff. That’s one of the things that sets them apart—real knowledge, built from real experiences.

Their Bozeman headquarters includes a retail fly shop, travel office, and a team of nearly 50 people. Whether you’re looking for gear, flights, or help planning a once-in-a-lifetime trip, Yellow Dog handles the full process. It’s not a booking engine. It’s a trusted team that’s spent years building relationships with lodges, guides, and outfitters around the world.

Jim Klug’s Journey

Jim started Yellow Dog with a simple goal—make fly fishing travel easier, more trustworthy, and more personalized. In the early days, it was just him, his yellow lab Bo, and a lot of phone calls. Over time, the business grew, but the approach stayed the same.

Jim didn’t just want to sell trips. He wanted to help people make the most of their time. He talks about that shift in mindset during the episode. When someone chooses to go fishing in a remote part of the world, they’re not just spending money. They’re investing their time and trust. That means something.

Episode Highlights

• How Yellow Dog went from a one-man, one-dog operation to an international travel powerhouse
• Why trust and personalization are core to their business model
• What you’ll find in their retail shop, including gear for global destinations
• The story behind the name Yellow Dog
• Why time—not just money—is the most valuable part of booking the right trip
  
  

“People may not remember the guide’s name, but they always remembered the guy with the yellow dog.” – Jim Klug

Montana Through the Lens of Yellow Dog Flyfishing

Jim talks about what makes Montana a perfect home base. From the quality of the rivers to the strength of the local guide network, Montana’s influence shows up in every part of Yellow Dog’s work. He also shares thoughts on conservation, how tourism has changed the region, and why protecting wild places matters for both locals and visitors.

This conversation is a reminder of how much place matters. You can build something big and still stay connected to the place that shaped you.

Need transportation while you’re here?

Mountain Mule Transportation provides private SUV and van service across southwest Montana—including airport transfers, guided day trips, and wedding or event transportation. Whether you're flying in to fish with Yellow Dog or heading to dinner in Paradise Valley, we’ll make sure you get there safely and comfortably. Learn more or book your ride at mountain-mule.com.

Mountain Mule Media is a production of Mountain Mule Transportation, a private chauffeur and transportation service based in Bozeman, Montana. We provide rides for weddings, events, airport transfers, nights out, and custom trips across the state. Learn more at mountain-mule.com.