Fishing Season: April-November

Middle Fork Flathead River - MT

Fishing Outlook & Conditions

Water Temp:

38

Glacier Anglers's Tip of the Week

Welllll winter is baaaack! There is a half-foot of snow and counting along the Middle Fork. And the river level is far above normal for this time of year. But, warm weather is expected to melt it all by next week. That will likely mean high, muddy water, but we'll keep you posted.

Directions open in app

Map of Middle Fork Flathead River

Water Flow Data

Orvis-Endorsed guides nearby

Glacier Anglers

5-Day Outlook as of 4/16/26

While it's cold and snowy today, temps are set to spike into the high 60s next week, melting the half-foot of snow we got today. That will not be great for fishing, but we will keep you posted.

Techniques & Tips as of 4/16/26

Plan ahead for the in-between runoff times.

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 dry

Best Time to Fish:

late afternoon

Best Stretch:

West Glacier Golf Course

Best Access:

West Glacier Golf Course