Fishing Season: April-November

Middle Fork Flathead River - MT

Fishing Outlook & Conditions

Water Temp:

57

Glacier Anglers's Tip of the Week

With river levels dropping over the last week, fish are getting pickier. Consider going down to a smaller dry fly size and dropping a nymph in the afternoon to reach fish in deeper pools.

Directions open in app

Map of Middle Fork Flathead River

Water Flow Data

Orvis-Endorsed guides nearby

Glacier Anglers

5-Day Outlook as of 8/4/26

Morning water temperatures have been remarkably cool, with cold nights and smoky conditions blocking the sun during the day. Bring a water thermometer with you! Upper river levels are bony!

Techniques & Tips as of 8/4/26

Throw stonefly patterns in the fast, dynamic water and mayfly patterns and caddis patterns in the slower seams where they won't drown.

Local Species Available April-November

  • Fish Icon

    Trout

Glacier Anglers's Recommended Fly Patterns

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

Name: Colors: Size(s):
Adams purple 12-16
Larson’s Legend Golden Stone Dry yellow 14-16
Larson’s Legend Golden Stone Dry olive 10-16
Griffith’s Gnat natural 12-14
Pale Morning Dun Thorax yellow 12-16
Elk Wing Caddis blue/red 12-16

Adams

Popular on rivers around the world, the Adams dry fly is a versatile pattern trout love to strike.

2.49

Item #0330

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Glacier Anglers's Recommended Gear

Description: About Middle Fork Flathead River

The Middle Fork of the Flathead River originates in the heart of the Great Bear Wilderness in one of the most remote and pristine areas in the lower 48. Once the river reaches Hwy 2, just west of Marias Pass, if flows westward, following the highway and making up the majority of the southern boarder of Glacier National Park until its confluence with the North Fork near Blankenship Bridge. The Middle Fork is a true Jewel, with excellent West Slope Cutthroat fishing along its entire length.

Nearest Airport:

Glacier International - Kalispel (FCA)

Hatches:

Black adult stonefly BH FB pheasant tail nymph adult midge dry golden stone adult green drake yellow sally

Best Time to Fish:

morning

Best Stretch:

Paola to Cascadilla

Best Access:

Essex