Clark Fork River
FishableMontana
Current Conditions
The Clark Fork River is running at 6,070 CFS — fishable but higher than ideal. Nymph rigs will outfish dries today. Streamers may produce.
Last updated: Mar 31, 2026, 5:00 PM from USGS gauge 12340500 (Clark Fork at Missoula)
7-Day Flow Trend
Flow thresholds: Optimal 2000–4000 CFS | Fishable to 8000 CFS | Marginal to 14000 CFS
Water Temperature
Water temperature is cool — ideal for trout activity. Fish will be feeding actively throughout the day.
About the Clark Fork River
Montana's largest river by volume flows from Butte through Missoula to the Idaho border. After decades of cleanup from mining contamination, the Clark Fork is fishing better than it has in a century. Large browns and rainbows in underrated water.
Hatch Chart
| Insect | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Salmon Fly Chubby Chernobyl #6 | ||||||||||||
Caddis Elk Hair Caddis #14 | ||||||||||||
Blue-Winged Olive BWO Parachute #18 | ||||||||||||
Hopper Dave's Hopper #8 |
Active Hatches — March
Patterns: BWO Parachute #18
River Sections
Missoula to Superior
float access6,070 CFS
Big water with excellent float opportunities. Underrated stretch with fewer anglers and big fish.
Guides on the Clark Fork River(25)
These fishing guides list the Clark Fork River as one of their home waters.
Cabinet Mountain Outfitters
Plains, Montana
Cross Currents Fly Shop & Outfitters
Craig, Montana
Elk Creek Outfitting
Heron, Montana
Hole in the Wall Outfitters
Alberton, Montana
Joe Cantrell Outfitting
St. Regis, Montana
Kevin Hawkins Fishing
Corvallis, Montana
LaMarche Creek Outfitting
Wise River, Montana
Latitudes Outfitting
Hamilton, Montana
Linehan Outfitting
Troy, Montana
Living Water Guide Service
East Helena, Montana
Montana Hunting Fishing Adventures
Hamilton, Montana
Montana River Outfitters
Great Falls, Montana
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to fish the Clark Fork River?+
The Clark Fork River fishes well from spring through fall. Peak dry fly season is typically June through September. The salmon fly hatch in late June/early July is one of the year's most exciting events. Fall brings excellent streamer fishing and fewer crowds.
What flies work on the Clark Fork River in March?+
In March, the Clark Fork River sees Blue-Winged Olive activity. Top patterns include BWO Parachute #18. Always carry a selection of nymphs as well.
How many fishing guides operate on the Clark Fork River?+
Outguided lists 25 fishing guides who operate on the Clark Fork River. These guides offer local knowledge of hatches, access points, and current conditions that can significantly improve your experience.
What is the current flow on the Clark Fork River?+
The Clark Fork River's flow data is updated every 30 minutes from USGS gauge stations. Check the top of this page for current CFS readings, fishability status, and a 7-day flow trend chart. Optimal fishing flows are 2000–4000 CFS.
What fish species are in the Clark Fork River?+
The Clark Fork River primarily holds wild brown trout and rainbow trout. Cutthroat trout may also be present in some sections. Fish sizes vary by section, with tailwater reaches typically holding larger fish.
Quick Conditions
Fishability Thresholds
USGS Gauges
Clark Fork at Missoula
Station #12340500