47 Degrees,

I second the recommendation for a 9' 5 wt fly rod; it's the most popular rod length and line wt for trout fishing in N. America for a reason. For mid-price point rods, check out Echo and TFO, also Allen on the web. The cheapest rod I would suggest that I know to be OK is Cabela's Three Forks at $59 or $69. A reel at any price point will do. Get a good fly line. You can spend more, but you can't do any better than a Cortland 444 (peach) WF5F. You probably shouldn't spend less without better than average advice.

If you go through Jackson, check out the Gros Ventre River well upstream of the SF Snake. Or Flat Creek if you want a lesson in sophisticated trout, but probably not a good idea for a newbie. Hit West Bank Anglers or a shop in Jackson for advice. If you go through Yellowstone, don't pass up Slough Creek, if it's open - be sure to check first. Actually, practically any creek or river you pass will offer decent fishing if it's not blown out with spring runoff. And if it is, you can often still catch fish on salmonfly patterns.

Have fun and give us a report when you return.

Sg