Fishing Season: April-November

Middle Fork Flathead River - MT

Fishing Outlook & Conditions

Water Temp:

50

Glacier Anglers's Tip of the Week

Locals will tell you this is the best time of year. Fall foliage is popping, the air is crisp and cool, and you'll likely have the river to yourself. Plus, it's fishing great!

Directions open in app

Map of Middle Fork Flathead River

Water Flow Data

Orvis-Endorsed guides nearby

Glacier Anglers

5-Day Outlook as of 9/28/26

The weather looks perfect for a fall float or walk-and-wade on the Middle Fork. The mornings are chilly, so we recommend waiting until mid-morning to afternoon for the water and air temps to warm up.

Techniques & Tips as of 9/28/26

We're getting the best results with small ants--either black or cinnamon. We're also finding bigger fish in the heavier runs with extra-large foam terrestrial patterns or stoneflies. You'll see some large October caddis flying around--don't be afraid to offer a Cheeto-colored Goddard caddis pattern.

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):
Foam Park Hopper purple 12
Griffith’s Gnat natural 12-14
Pale Morning Dun Thorax yellow 12-16
Elk Wing Caddis blue/red 12-16

Foam Park Hopper

An effective Yellowstone area grasshopper fly pattern that will work well for you locally, too.

4.49

Item #96H2

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:

Adult hoppers Ants Beetles Black adult stonefly BH FB pheasant tail nymph adult midge dry golden stone adult green drake yellow sally

Best Time to Fish:

afternoon and evening

Best Stretch:

Blankenship Bridge to House of Mystery

Best Access:

Blankenship Bridge