Clark Fork River Fishing Report

Hoot owl restrictions (prohibits angling between 2 PM to midnight) are in effect for the Upper Clark Fork River - from the Clark Fork’s origin at the confluence of Warm Springs Creek and Silver Bow Creek to the mouth of Flint Creek starting July 22. 

• Temperatures were measured at the USGS gage 12324200 at Deer Lodge. 
• Water temperatures exceeded 73 degrees in this reach of the Clark Fork River for three consecutive days starting July 17. 

Tip of the Week The Clark Fork has dropped into great summer shape! Trout are piled up along the bank lines, large eddies, and foamy riffles and are looking up for bugs. Bypass the deep, heavy mid-river current and hunt exclusively for the soft-water margins. Fishing in the morning and the evenings are the best times to go. Keep an eye on the water temps in the afternoon as it is starting to get hot!

***There are reports of a new tree down between Turah and Sha-Ron about half a mile above the confluence of Clark Fork and Blackfoot. Call the shop for more details 406.542.7411***

7 Day Outlook In Missoula, it is going to be very warm this weekend with temps in the 80s and  lots of sunshine. Looking into next week, temps look to be in the 80s and 90s with a mix of clouds and sunshine.

Best Techniques Throw a Chubby Chernobyl or a hopper on top, and drop a PMD nymph or a general attractor nymph like a Duracell or Perdigon 3 to 4 feet below. PMD hatches in the mornings and evenings when it cools off are very consistent right now. Throw a Sparkle Dun, Corn Fed Caddis or a small Purple Haze to rising fish in the riffles and foam lines. Terrestials are becoming a great option as well. Throw a small hopper, ant or beetle pattern to entice a fish to rise.

Conditions change fast! Call us at 406.542.7411 for the most recent updates on area rivers, fly selection, and gear recommendations. Local to Missoula? Swing through the shop to get dialed in with the best gear from Orvis, Patagonia, and Skwala, plus the exact bugs they're eating today.