Clark Fork River Fishing Report

Hoot owl restrictions (fishing prohibited 2:00 p.m. to midnight) are in effect for the Clark Fork River - from the Clark Fork’s origin at the confluence of Warm Springs Creek and Silver Bow Creek to the confluence of the Flathead River starting July 29. 

A fishing closure is in effect for a 100-yard radius around the Mouth of the St. Regis River  - at the Clark Fork River confluence starting July 29. 

A fishing closure is in effect for a 100-yard radius around the Mouth of Rattlesnake Creek - at the Clark Fork River confluence starting July 29. 

A fishing closure is in effect for a 100-yard radius around the Mouth of Fish Creek  - at the Clark Fork River confluence starting July 29. 

Hoot owl restrictions (fishing prohibited 2:00 p.m. to midnight) are in effect for Silver Bow Creek from the confluence with Blacktail Creek to the mouth of Warm Springs Creek starting July 29.

Tip of the Week The Clark Fork’s has been fishing well early in the morning when the water is still cool. Fish are hiding along shallow bank edges, sweepers, and eddy lines to eat hoppers, ants, and beetles before the sun heats up the water. Skip the slow, warm mid-river flats and focus on faster water and deeper water since they will be cooler.

***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***

***There are reports of a new tree down between Clinton and Turah. Call the shop for more details 406.542.7411***

7 Day Outlook IIn Missoula, this weekend is going to have temps in the 90s with lots of sun. Looking into next week the beginning of the week will have temps in the 80s and 90s, but towards the end of the week temps will drop into the low 70s. 

Best Techniques A dry dropper is your best way to fish the Clark Fork right now. Throw a Chubby Chernobyl, More or Less Hopper, or a Juicy hopper and then drop a Frenchie, Duracell, Perdigon or a Pheasant Tail 2-3 feet below. If you want to fish a single dry throw a smaller hopper or an ant or beetle pattern.

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.