Fishing Season: Year round; Tributaries closed December 1-third week of May. Check regulations before fishing.

Flint Creek - MT

Fishing Outlook & Conditions

Water Temp:

69

Blackfoot River Outfitters's Tip of the Week

Flint Creek is clear, low, and in summer shape. Target deep, walking-pace pools, riffle corners, and undercut banks. Because the midday sun beats down on the water, make sure your drifts are tight against the banks. Those fish are tucked tightly under the undercut bank hiding in the shade. Get out early to beat the sun and keep an eye on the water temps.

Directions open in app

Map of Flint Creek

Water Flow Data

Orvis-Endorsed guides nearby

Blackfoot River Outfitters

5-Day Outlook as of 7/17/26

The weather in Phillipsburg is set to have temps in the 80s over the weekend and lots of sun. The rest of the week will be more of the same. Lots of sunshine and temps in the 80s.

Techniques & Tips as of 7/17/26

The dry-dropper rig is a great option on Flint right now. Throw size #10 or #12 Chubby Chernobyl or even a Hopper on top and trail a size #16 PMD nymph like a Split Case or Jigged PT or a general attractor nymph like a Prince or a Frenchie 2 to 3 feet below. Terrestrials are a great option as well throw an Ant, Beatle or a Hopper pattern tight to the bank.

Local Species Available Year round; Tributaries closed December 1-third week of May. Check regulations before fishing.

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    Brown Trout

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    Mountain Whitefish

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    Cutthroat Trout

Blackfoot River Outfitters's Recommended Fly Patterns

"Must-have" fly fishing patterns in descending order of importance:

Name: Colors: Size(s):
Griffith's Gnat N/A #16-18
Midge N/A #18-20
Elk Wing Caddis N/A #12-16
Bead Head Prince N/A #12-14
TJ Hooker tan 10-12
Perdigon black, red 14-16
Vernille San Juan Worm N/A #8-12
Lightning Bug N/A #14-16
Sparkle Minnow yellow and brown 12
Kreelex copper and brown 6

Griffith's Gnat

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Item #0922

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Blackfoot River Outfitters's Recommended Gear

Description: About Flint Creek

Flint Creek winds down out the Pintler Mountains, back and forth across the hay fields near Philipsburg. The meanders are so tight at times you could virtually fish two sides of a button hook at the same time. The miles of undercut grassy banks are home to wild brown trout that eagerly eat hoppers all summer long. Most of Flint Creek is private so please respect that and ask first before entering someone's ranch.

Nearest Airport:

Missoula International Airport (MSO)

Hatches:

Caddis

Best Time to Fish:

Morning and the Evening

Best Stretch:

Just north of Philipsburg but ask before you fish - very little public access so please secure permission from landowners.

Best Access:

Just north of Philipsburg but ask before you fish - very little public access so please secure permission from landowners.