Fishing Season: April-November

Middle Fork Flathead River - MT

Fishing Outlook & Conditions

Water Temp:

38

Glacier Anglers's Tip of the Week

The river spiked last week and is on its way down, but still not easily fishable.

Directions open in app

Map of Middle Fork Flathead River

Water Flow Data

Orvis-Endorsed guides nearby

Glacier Anglers

5-Day Outlook as of 4/3/26

It's high, muddy and fast. Levels are looking to hold at around 4k cfs this week, so we suggest spending this time tying flies instead of hitting the Middle Fork.

Techniques & Tips as of 4/3/26

Look toward the main stem, in very slow eddies or soft channels during this runoff. There will be good fishing in the next couple weeks between runoffs.

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