Fishing Season: April-November

Middle Fork Flathead River - MT

Fishing Outlook & Conditions

Water Temp:

56

Glacier Anglers's Tip of the Week

All upper stretches of the Middle Fork are too low to fish in standard craft. IKs and Watermaster-style personal craft will work, as well as walk/wade options.

Directions open in app

Map of Middle Fork Flathead River

Water Flow Data

Orvis-Endorsed guides nearby

Glacier Anglers

5-Day Outlook as of 10/5/25

Our native westslope cutthroat trout have mostly moved toward their wintering areas, which for Middle Fork fish means their tributaries. Look for them near the mouths of tributaries in mellow runs.

Techniques & Tips as of 10/5/25

As fish are trying to conserve energy for winter, they are less likely to rise to a dry fly in fast water, so consider a long dropper or small dries like midges in slower seams.

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:

Goober midge Golden stonefly adult Caddis adult Hoppers ants beetles

Best Time to Fish:

evening

Best Stretch:

West Glacier golf course to Blankenship Bridge

Best Access:

West Glacier golf course