Clark Fork

The eastern most headwaters of the Columbia river, the Clark Fork one of Montana's largest and un-crowded fly fishing destinations.   The Clark Fork begins near Warms Spring Montana where Silver Bow Creek & Warm Springs creek (a great fishery in its own right) join.  The river flows in a northwesterly direction paralleling I-90 to the town of Missoula.  The river flows well over 275 miles before draining into Lake Pend Oreille, which makes up for 90% of the lakes water.

The Clark Fork River has taken its abuse in the past due to mining of gold, silver, copper, lead and other minerals.  There was a big fish kill back in the early 80's due to Silver Bow Creek which flows out of Butte.   Over 10,000 fish were killed.  Arco along with other interests have been working on a project for many years now to clean up this section of river and bring it back to its once magnificent self.  I have a close family member working on the project.  It has paid off.  The fishing around Warm Springs has become one of the best fly fishing destinations in that area of Montana.  Fish in the 10 pound range are common.  There are special regulations on the river and ponds there, so make sure to check the fishing rules before making your first cast.  If you are in that area of the Clark Fork I would definitely encourage you to stop and cast a few bugs.   Below is a picture of the Clark Fork at Warm Springs, Montana.

The Clark Fork Coalition is a fine organization that works to maintain a high level of well being for the river.  They are dedicated anglers, citizens, business and organizations that act as a protector of the Clark Fork as well as Lake Pend Oreille.

The Clark Fork sees many great hatches throughout it fishing season, one of which is a Salmon Fly hatch.  It usually starts near Missoula around the first week of June.  Fishing in the spring can also be very good.  During the Salmon Fly hatch you may also see Caddis and a strong Golden Stonefly hatch.  This time of year the river is high from runoff, so fishing from some type of watercraft is really the most effective way of fishing.  The river also sees a large October Caddis hatch in the fall, which Yakima river anglers are well aware of.  This hatch creates some very exciting fishing.  If you are interested in fishing Montana this river is a must.  I would suggest putting it on your list.

If you would like to purchase a detailed map of the Clark Fork, click here.

To check the current river flows and water temperature for the Clark Fork click here!

For information on the current fight against Montana Whirling Disease cast here!

Here are just a few suggested patterns for the Clark Fork: