Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

Clark Fork - St. Regis - Montana

Hatch Chart - Best Access/Spots - Local Fish - About

Water Flow Chart

Using Water Flow Charts & Weather Reports: Begin with our water flow charts to grasp stream velocity and volume – look for stable or rising trends to pinpoint ideal fishing times. Learn to interpret sudden spikes or drops, which can indicate potential challenges. Next, consult our weather reports to understand ambient conditions. Pairing the two, you can anticipate fish behavior, choose the right gear, and select the best fishing spots. Use these tools together for a holistic approach to your next fishing adventure.

In-Depth Weather

Directions To Location

Hatch Chart

Month Hatch Time of Day Recommended Fly Sizes Popular Fly Patterns
January Midge Afternoon #18 - #22 Griffith's Gnat, Zebra Midge
February Midge Afternoon #18 - #22 Griffith's Gnat, Zebra Midge
March Midge, Blue Winged Olive Afternoon #16 - #20 BWO Emerger, Parachute BWO
April Blue Winged Olive, Skwala Stonefly Morning and Afternoon #12 - #18 Skwala Dry, BWO Dry
May Blue Winged Olive, Caddis, Salmonfly Morning and Afternoon #8 - #18 Salmonfly Dry, Elk Hair Caddis
June Golden Stonefly, PMD, Caddis Morning and Afternoon #12 - #16 Golden Stone, PMD Emerger, Elk Hair Caddis
July Yellow Sally, Caddis, Terrestrials All Day #12 - #18 Yellow Sally Dry, Hopper Patterns, Elk Hair Caddis
August Terrestrials, Caddis, Spruce Moths Morning and Evening #10 - #16 Hoppers, Ants, Beetles, Spruce Moth
September Blue Winged Olive, Mahogany Dun Morning and Afternoon #14 - #18 Parachute BWO, Mahogany Dun Dry
October Blue Winged Olive Afternoon #16 - #20 Parachute BWO, BWO Emerger
November Midge Afternoon #18 - #22 Zebra Midge, Griffith's Gnat
December Midge Afternoon #18 - #22 Zebra Midge, Griffith's Gnat

While we strive to ensure the precision of our hatch charts, some reflect broader river region insights. Through ongoing partnerships with local guides and fly shops, we’re committed to refining our data. Should you notice any inconsistencies or have feedback, we welcome you to reach out. 

Best Fishing Spots

The Clark Fork – St. Regis area boasts a myriad of outstanding spots for the fly fish enthusiast, with various species available.

  • St. Regis River: Known for its diverse species and serene settings. Ideal for trout, with excellent hatches throughout the season.
  • Alberton Gorge: This is a popular destination due to its healthy population of native rainbow and brown trout.
  • Quad Creek: A tributary of the Clark Fork that holds a healthy population of Cutthroat trout. A haven for those seeking solitude and plenty of action.
  • Cyr Bridge: Offers ample brown and rainbow trout. Turn off the I-90 at Cyr and extend your cast.
  • Thompson Falls: Very consistent with good hatches of Caddis and Mayflies. Here larger trout are prevalent especially early in the morning or late evening.

Best Access Points

The Clark Fork – St. Regis provides several excellent access points for fly-fishing enthusiasts.

  • St. Regis Community Park:Located right in town, this location provides anglers with easy access to the river.
  • St. Regis Campground: A perfect spot for those looking to spend a couple of days fishing. It gives you direct access to the river.
  • Beaver Creek Road: Situated about five miles northeast of St. Regis, this spot offers a quieter experience.
  • Old Mill Loop: Provides access to both the Clark Fork and St. Regis rivers. From St. Regis, travel east on Highway 135. Turn left on Old Mill Loop after about 4 miles.
  • Fish Creek: It is near the I-90 off-ramp after the St. Regis exit, offering convenient access.
  • Riverside at Dry Creek: Located just west of the town, this spot is known for large trout.

Local Fish

  • Westslope Cutthroat Trout: This is the native trout of Clark Fork, they are retail, cold-water fish generally found in clean, clear streams.
  • Rainbow Trout: They are usually found in fast, cool rivers with strong currents like the Clark Fork.
  • Brown Trout: Popular for fly fishing due to their cunning nature, prefer clear cold waters.
  • Bull Trout: Although endangered and catch-and-release only, Bull trout are a treasured catch for fly fishers.
  • Mountain Whitefish: Common in Clark Fork, tend to be bottom-feeders.
  • Brook Trout: While not native to the waters, they have become a common target for fly fishing.
  • Northern Pike: A predatory species, Northern Pike are a thrilling catch for any fly fisher.
  • Smallmouth Bass: Also not a native species, Smallmouth Bass have become a popular target for many fishers in the Clark Fork region.

About The River

The Clark Fork River is one of the longest rivers in Montana, stretching an impressive 310 miles! Known for its stunning scenery, it starts in the Rocky Mountains near Butte and journeys across the state to the Idaho border.

Nestled along this majestic river, you’ll find the charming town of St. Regis. This picturesque settlement established itself in the late 1800s as a railway town and has maintained its enticing charm ever since!

Here’s what you should know about the area:

  • The Clark Fork River is famed for fishing, especially Cutthroat trout.
  • St. Regis is known for its annual Huckleberry festival, celebrating Montana’s state fruit.
  • Nature lovers will admire the area’s abundant wildlife and lush forests.
  • It’s a fantastic place for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and rafting.
Overall, both Clark Fork River and St. Regis offer a unique blend of natural beauty, history, and outdoor adventure that should not be missed!

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