Clark Fork River
MT
•
River
About Clark Fork River
The Clark Fork River is a vast and dynamic freestone river in Montana, stretching over 175 miles from its headwaters near Deer Lodge to its confluence with the Flathead River. This river supports healthy populations of native westslope cutthroat trout, along with wild brown and rainbow trout, particularly in cooler sections where major tributaries converge. Anglers can anticipate significant hatches including Salmonflies, Green Drakes, Brown Drakes, Caddis, and Hoppers. While sections near Missoula become too wide and deep for wading, many accessible public access points and informal bridge crossings exist, with some stretches offering opportunities for more secluded wade fishing, and streamer fishing is highly effective, especially in the fall.
Access
Seasons
Terrain
Water
Fish Species
Brown Trout
Rainbow Trout
Fishing Styles
undefined USGS Water Conditions
Water conditions for the last 7 days. You can gain insights to fishing activity based on these conditions, like water temperature and flow.
Data sourced from the USGS National Water Information System
Methods
•
Wade Friendly
•
Float Friendly
Land Ownership
Public Blm
Public Forest Service
Trip Planning
Best fishing typically occurs during spring and summer. Check water conditions before heading out.
See what insects are emerging on Clark Fork River's hatch forecast — including active hatches, water temperatures, and which patterns to have in your box this month.