Fishing Season: April-November

Middle Fork Flathead River - MT

Fishing Outlook & Conditions

Water Temp:

60

Glacier Anglers's Tip of the Week

Water levels are getting lower, (dropped 800 cfs or .5 ft in the last week) and the water is warming, (60 degrees) so look for aerated, deeper runs and pocketwater. There is excellent fishing on all stretches of the Middle Fork. The water is gin-clear and fish are rising to dry flies all day.

Directions open in app

Map of Middle Fork Flathead River

Water Flow Data

Orvis-Endorsed guides nearby

Glacier Anglers

5-Day Outlook as of 7/13/25

There is a cool-down early this coming week, then it's set to get hot again. The nights are cool, so water is great for fish health before the afternoons. Get out early to find eager fish.

Techniques & Tips as of 7/13/25

Fish are now active in "summer water" --the faster outside bends as well as in the shallow riffles over gravel bars that end in a deep pool. Find them in the seams and bubble lines! Pocket water fishing is very fun, so look for fish in deeper rock gardens as well.

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):
Adam's Purple Parachute purple 12-16
Yellow Sally yellow 14-16
Elk Wing Caddis olive 10-16
Griffith's Gnat natural 12-14
Larson's Legend Golden Stone Dry yellow 12-16
Patriot Dry Fly blue/red 12-16

Adam's Purple Parachute

Tie on this deadly purple parachute dry fly to show trout something unique.

2.49

Item #7R6K

Buy Now

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:

Golden stonefly adult Caddis adult BWO Green drake PMD Goober midge

Best Time to Fish:

morning

Best Stretch:

Every stretch from Bear Creek to House of Mystery is fishing great!

Best Access:

All FAS are crowded this time of year, so take your time and be organized. Don't rig or pump boats in the ramps, be courteous of others, don't let your dogs run, and be efficient during your launch!