Fishing Season: April-November

Middle Fork Flathead River - MT

Fishing Outlook & Conditions

Water Temp:

46

Glacier Anglers's Tip of the Week

Green means go...safely! If the color of the water is green or blue, it should fish well. Remember that it won't be the same river two days in a row. Check river levels and consider going to a local lake if it's too high and fast to be safe, or if it turns brown.

Directions open in app

Map of Middle Fork Flathead River

Water Flow Data

Orvis-Endorsed guides nearby

Glacier Anglers

5-Day Outlook as of 5/25/26

After a week of low-for normal river levels, there is another spike on the rise and river levels will hit their second-highest of the season by the end of the week, due to warm weather.

Techniques & Tips as of 5/25/26

Look for clear water coming out of tributaries, and fish the soft, slow eddies and seams.

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):
Adams purple 12-16
Larson's Legend Golden Stone Dry yellow 14-16
Larson's Legend Golden Stone Dry olive 10-16
Griffith's Gnat natural 12-14
Pale Morning Dun Thorax yellow 12-16
Elk Wing Caddis blue/red 12-16

Adams

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Item #0330

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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