Flathead River Fishing Report

Fly Fishing Near Glacier National Park

The Flathead River system is a unique fishery located around Glacier National Park and is made up of three forks which eventually drain into Flathead Lake. Here at Glacier Anglers, we fish both the Middle and North Forks. Typically, we start fishing both rivers in late June through September using dry flies. Fly fishing Glacier National Park provides a healthy population of native Westslope Cutthroat Trout that are eager to eat and fun to catch.

The Middle Fork of the Flathead originates in the Great Bear Wilderness and creates the southern border of Glacier National Park. From deep in the wilderness, it flows roughly 70 miles before it’s confluence with the North Fork of the Flathead. Many sections of the Middle Fork of the Flathead are comprised of canyons as well as class II-III whitewater. We navigate these waters using rafts with custom built fishing frames instead of the traditional drift boat.

The headwaters of the North Fork of the Flathead originate in Canada and flow south into the United States. The North Fork creates the western boundary line of Glacier National Park and provides some spectacular views inside the Park. In many areas the North Fork widens up and braids in between Glacier National Park and National Forest Service lands.

Middle Fork of the Flathead River Fishing Report

Last Updated:7 / 16 / 2019

Fishing Report
Fly Patterns
Water Flow and Tide Chart

Fishing Conditions

Orvis-Endorsed guides nearby:
Glacier Anglers

Water flow: 2040

Visibility: 60 inches

Water temperature at mid-day: 60 Degrees F

Water condition: Clear

Best time of day to fish: Mid Morning, Mid Afternoon

Best stretch: Bear Creek to Paola

Best access point: The Old Bridge in West Glacier

Fly fishing hatches in order of importance:

Mayflies Caddis Flies Golden Stoneflies Ants

Fish species: Trout

Fishing season: April-November

Nearest airport: Glacier International - Kallispel (FCA)

Recommended fly fishing leader: 9 Foot Leader

Recommended fly fishing tippet: 4X Tippet

Best fly fishing rod: 9' 5 Weight Fly Rod

Best floating fly line: WF Trout Fly Line

Fly Name:	Fly Color:	Fly Size(s):
Royal Coachman	Royal	14
Adams	Gray	16
Stimulator	Orange	14
Elk Wing Caddis	Tan	14
Adam's Purple Parachute	Purple	14
Flying Ant	Black/Cinnamon	14

Real-time water flow data from USGS:

North Fork of the Flathead River Fishing Report