Flathead River - North Fork

About Flathead River - North Fork

The North Fork of the Flathead River is a 153-mile National Wild and Scenic River flowing from British Columbia, Canada, into Montana, forming the western boundary of Glacier National Park. Originating in the Clark Range, this pristine, cold, and clear river winds through a broad glacial valley, offering excellent opportunities for Westslope cutthroat trout and bull trout. Anglers can expect to find numerous 8-12 inch cutthroats actively feeding on caddisfly and mayfly imitations, with the possibility of hooking bull trout when using larger wet flies or streamers. While specific hatch charts aren't detailed, the river's remote, undeveloped upper reaches suggest a healthy insect population vital for fly fishing, with caddis and mayflies being prominent. Wade fishing is generally accessible along much of the river, though reaching the numerous deep, clear pools often requires a boat like an inflatable raft or kayak, especially between Big Creek and Glacier Rim River Access. These pools, often exceeding fifteen feet deep, are prime locations for both cutthroat and bull trout, though bull trout fishing is catch-and-release only. Floating the North Fork is a popular option, with much of the river being floatable, though caution is advised due to potential logjams and rapids, particularly after high water events.