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Fly fishing the Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone

Clark Fork of the Yellowstone

Beginning near the Yellowstone National Park boundary, the Clark Fork offers varied structure, interesting terrain, and dynamic fishing through foothill country.

Near the Park Boundary

Dynamic Water, Varied Structure

The Clark Fork of the Yellowstone begins near the Yellowstone National Park boundary, flows into Wyoming, and then back into Montana. The section most accessible from Red Lodge begins approximately fifteen miles east of town.

One of the unique aspects of the Clark Fork is the nature of its water type. This river runs through sections that look very different from one another — riffles, seams, shelves, deep bends, and faster pocket water. Seasonal fluctuations create new holding water for trout, making the Clark Fork both fun and dynamic to fish.

The river supports Brown and Rainbow Trout with seasonal changes influencing where fish hold and how they feed. While runoff can make many rivers unfishable, the Clark Fork often holds pockets of fishable water. Planning your day with your guide ensures access to the best conditions.

Wading is generally straightforward, with productive nymphing and dry fly fishing depending on season and height. Streamer fishing produces excellent results during low light and fall months.

2 Species
Brown & Rainbow
Freestone
River Type
Wade
Primary Access
Dynamic
Varied Water Types
On the Water

The Clarks Fork in Frame

Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone River
Remote canyon water
Fishing the Clarks Fork
Guided float trip
Fall fishing on the Clarks Fork
September colors
Hatches & Season

Spring Through Fall

Spring
Baetis & Midges
Early hatches bring Baetis and midges. The Clark Fork can remain fishable when other rivers are affected by runoff, making it a valuable early-season option.
Summer
PMDs & Caddis
PMDs, caddis, and terrestrials provide consistent summer action. The river's varied structure rewards anglers who enjoy reading water and adapting their approach.
Fall
Streamers & Baetis
Fall brings returning Baetis and productive streamer opportunities during low light. Transitioning nymph patterns round out a strong fall fishing program.
Other Waters to Visit

Explore More Rivers

Stillwater River →

Crystal-clear freestone river flowing from the Beartooth Mountains. Exceptional dry fly water with aggressive wild trout.

Boulder River →

Remote valley setting with willing trout and virtually no pressure. A hidden gem for anglers seeking solitude.

Shoshone River →

Flowing from the Absaroka Range through Cody, Wyoming. A scenic option that adds variety to any multi-day itinerary.
"The Clark Fork was a river I'd never heard of, but the guide said to trust him. We found fish in every type of water — riffles, pockets, deep bends. It felt like fishing three different rivers in one day."
— Returning Guest

Begin Your Montana Story

Whether it's your first trip or your twentieth, there's always new water to discover. Let us help you plan the perfect fly fishing experience.

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