Fishing Season: April-November

North Fork Flathead River - MT

Fishing Outlook & Conditions

Water Temp:

38

Glacier Anglers's Tip of the Week

The river is coming down after the recent, remarkable, unseasonable runoff we had all across the Flathead system. However, that doesn't mean that it's good fishing--it's still high and fast, and the North Fork Fish have generally moved down to Flathead Lake for the winter, as they are adfluvial.

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 12/30/25

The river will be holding around 3.5 ft, or 3,000 cfs for the next week, so don't expect conditions to get a lot better in the next seven days.

Techniques & Tips as of 12/30/25

Safety first! The river is high for this time of year, so watch the levels and consider staying away until it goes down. You may enjoy this level in the summer, but when the water temps are in the 30s, the risk to humans if you fall or get wet is too high. Plus, the fish will not be active in these conditions.

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):
CDC Caddis purple 12-16
Elk Wing Caddis olive 12-16
Yellow Sally tan 12-14
Patriot Dry Fly blue, red 12-14
Flying Ant yellow 12
Hopper any color 14

CDC Caddis

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Item #17X1

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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:

Mayfly adult Stonefly adult Caddis adult Midge Mayfly nymph

Best Time to Fish:

late afternoon

Best Stretch:

Blankenship Bridge

Best Access:

Blankenship Bridge