Clark Fork River Fishing Report
The Clark Fork is settling into prime September conditions. Flows are steady, clarity is excellent, and fish are spreading into riffles and seams as water temperatures cool. This river is offering some of the most consistent fishing in the state right now.
Dry Fly Action
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Mahoganies are the main event—expect strong hatches late morning into afternoon, especially on overcast days.
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BWOs are showing in the afternoons and producing steady dry fly eats in softer water.
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Terrestrials (hoppers, beetles, and ants) are still producing mid-day along grassy banks and cutbanks.
Nymphing & Streamers
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Mayfly nymphs like pheasant tails, hare’s ears, and small perdigons are producing under a dry or indicator.
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Stonefly patterns and worm patterns are consistent subsurface options.
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Streamer fishing is improving—olive and black sculpins fished tight to structure are moving some larger trout.
Fishing Strategy
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Look for pods of risers in long glides and tailouts during mahogany and BWO hatches.
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Cover riffles with a hopper-dropper setup when nothing is visibly hatching.
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Strip streamers through deeper runs early and late for a chance at bigger fish.
Guide’s Note: The Clark Fork fishes incredibly well in September. With less pressure than summer and steady hatches, it’s a top choice for anglers chasing both numbers and size.
