Fishing Season: April-November

Middle Fork Flathead River - MT

Fishing Outlook & Conditions

Water Temp:

54

Glacier Anglers's Tip of the Week

Terrestrial bonanza! This time of year is when we enjoy throwing our little land friends: hoppers, ants, and beetles. The classic hopper-dropper is ideal, with a foam grasshopper pattern followed by a heavy perdigon nymph about two and a half feet below. We are also loving throwing tiny cinnamon ants and black ants!

Directions open in app

Map of Middle Fork Flathead River

Water Flow Data

Orvis-Endorsed guides nearby

Glacier Anglers

5-Day Outlook as of 8/28/26

We've had some warm days, but this week is set to bring some thunderstorms and intermittent rain, so be prepared for all weather conditions. Upper river levels are low, so be sure you have the proper watercraft for the river.

Techniques & Tips as of 8/28/26

Throw large, foam terrestrial patterns in the fast, dynamic water and smaller ant and beetle patterns and caddis patterns in the slower seams where they won't drown. Also, don't be afraid to let that little ant drown if you're using it as a trailer. It will get chased!

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
Flying Ant black 14-16
Schroeder's Hi-Vis Hopper yellow 10-16
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:

morning

Best Stretch:

West Glacier to Blankenship Bridge

Best Access:

Essex