Fishing Season: April-November

North Fork Flathead River - MT

Fishing Outlook & Conditions

Water Temp:

32

Glacier Anglers's Tip of the Week

Due to extreme cold temperatures. large portions of the river frozen. Watch out for dangerous river ice. Accessibility is difficult.

Directions open in app

Map of North Fork Flathead River

Water Flow Data

Tidal Conditions

Orvis-Endorsed guides nearby

Glacier Anglers

5-Day Outlook as of 2/19/25

The majority of cutthroat on the North Fork are adfluvial, moving to Flathead Lake for the winter. So, it's best to fish down river on the main stem this time of year.

Techniques & Tips as of 2/19/25

heavy stonefly nymphs on the main stem

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):
Vernille San Juan Worm pink 12-16
Bead Head Woolly Bugger Streamer tan 12-16
Bead Head Caddis Pupa tan 14-18
Cone Head Muddler Minnow black 12-14
Oliver Edwards Rhycophila Larva N/A 12
Mickey Finn purple 12

Vernille San Juan Worm

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Glacier Anglers's Recommended Gear

Description: About North Fork Flathead River

The North Fork of the flathead Flows directly south from the Canadian Border, and makes up the western boarder of Glacier National Park until its confluence with the Middle Fork at Blankenship Bridge. The North Fork is an exceptional West Slope Cutthroat fishery, with breathtaking views of Glacier National Park.

Nearest Airport:

Glacier International - Kallispel (FCA)

Hatches:

stonefly nymphs adult midge

Best Time to Fish:

afternoon

Best Stretch:

Glacier Rim down Water Condition: Clear

Best Access:

Glacier Rim