Fishing Season: April-November

Middle Fork Flathead River - MT

Fishing Outlook & Conditions

Water Temp:

38

Glacier Anglers's Tip of the Week

The river is coming down after the recent, remarkable, unseasonable runoff we had all across the Flathead system. However, that doesn't mean that it's good fishing--it's still high and fast, and the Middle Fork Fish are hiding out in their tribs for the winter, which are off-limits.

Directions open in app

Map of Middle Fork Flathead River

Water Flow Data

Orvis-Endorsed guides nearby

Glacier Anglers

5-Day Outlook as of 12/30/25

As the river drops, look for warmer, cloudy days to explore the river near the mouths of tributaries. You may find some cutthroat rising to midges or bwos.

Techniques & Tips as of 12/30/25

Don't go until you've checked river levels to be sure that it's safe--and if it's moving too fast, the fish won't be there anyway, as they become very lethargic in the winter and don't like to fight against the current.

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):
Hopper purple 12-16
Flying Ant yellow 14-16
Larson's Legend Golden Stone Dry olive 10-16
Griffith's Gnat natural 12-14
Flash Beetle yellow 12-16
Elk Wing Caddis blue/red 12-16

Hopper

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Item #0414

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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:

San Juan Worm Girdle Bug adult midge driy

Best Time to Fish:

late afternoon

Best Stretch:

below Blankenship Bridge

Best Access:

Blankenship Bridge