Fishing Season: April-November

North Fork Flathead River - MT

Fishing Outlook & Conditions

Water Temp:

60

Glacier Anglers's Tip of the Week

No need to wait until the afternoon to fish terrestrials! We are finding fish rising to hoppers, ants and beetles all day.

Directions open in app

Map of North Fork Flathead River

Water Flow Data

Orvis-Endorsed guides nearby

Glacier Anglers

5-Day Outlook as of 8/28/26

River levels have dropped significantly in the last week, so the upper stretches are skinny. The mornings are chilly in the water and on the water, so wear layers, bring rain gear, and be ready for warm afternoons. Water temps are healthy for fish still.

Techniques & Tips as of 8/28/26

Look outside the classic "fishy" banks, and try fishing large, foam terrestrials smack dab down the middle of the river and in sportier runs. Bigger fish are rising in bigger water to bigger bugs.

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):
Schroeder's Hi-Vis Hopper purple 12
Flying Ant black 12-16
Gee's Supafly Stone Dry tan 12-14
Patriot Dry Fly blue, red 12-14
Bead Head Stonefly yellow 12
Vernille San Juan Worm any color 14

Schroeder's Hi-Vis Hopper

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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:

Hopper Cinnamon ant black flying ant gulp beetle Mayfly adult Stonefly adult Caddis adult Midge Mayfly nymph

Best Time to Fish:

morning

Best Stretch:

All stretches!

Best Access:

Great Northern Flats, Glacier Rim