Glacier Park Collection

Fish, Camp & Explore on the Flathead’s North Fork

Set off on the legendary North Fork of the Flathead River — famous for its spectacular views, crystal-clear waters and abundance of wildlife — on a bucket-list worthy, multi-day adventure.

With headwaters starting in Canada, the North Fork flows south, forming the western boundary of Glacier National Park. This majestic river provides prime habitat for trout, with a variety of water conditions. You can drift a fly across a deep, slow-moving pool or lay your line out along the tail of a fast-moving riffle.

Discover everything the North Fork has to offer — from stunning scenery to world-class catch-and-release fishing — on our multi-day expedition.

North Fork Multi-day highlights
Rates per boat per day$1400
 

Fish for native and wild westslope cutthroat trout
Camp beneath the stars
Enjoy fresh and delicious meals, prepared by our guides
Take in spectacular Glacier National Park views you can only get from the river

For inquiries or to book by phone: 1.406.888.5454

Rates do not include 8% service fee or guide gratuity.

People in a green boat fish on still water.

Away From The Crowds

No need to compete with other anglers — you'll cast into quiet sections of the river as you navigate the North Fork.
An aerial view of cabins nestled between conifer trees

Close to Adventure

Our proximity to Glacier National Park means you're always nearby your next adventure, whether that’s fishing the Flathead River with Glacier Anglers & Outfitters or hiking Apgar Lookout just within the park gates.

Explore Paddle Ridge

What to Expect in the North Fork

The Day Before Your Trip

Check into the reservations office to make sure all waivers have been signed and fishing licenses have been purchased. Meet your trip leader and grab your dry bag to pack for tomorrow's launch.

Disclaimer: Itinerary is a sample. Trips may vary depending on river and fishing conditions, campsites and guests’ needs.

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Morning

Arrive at Glacier Anglers and Outfitters at Paddle Ridge in West Glacier Montana.

Meet your guides where they will take your dry bags onto the shuttle that will take the group upriver.

The shuttle up the North Fork can take anywhere from 30 minutes to a little over an hour depending on which launch point is decided.

At the launch point, guides will set up the boats and gear, and the Trip Leader will deliver an orientation and safety talk.

Spend the next few hours fishing and floating down the river taking in the flora, fauna, and overall grandeur of the North Fork of the Flathead River. Spend the next few hours drifting down the Western Border of Glacier National Park under the spectacular vistas which make up the Crown of the Continent.

Float down the scenic North Fork of the Flathead River where in the peak of the summer, the river is so clear that you can see the fish hanging out at the bottom of the pools.

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Afternoon

Pull over for lunch and enjoy some time stretching your legs and take a quick dip in the river if the day is hot. After lunch, continue to fish and float down to the campsite.

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Evening

Reaching the campsite with plenty of time to relax, fish from the shore, play on the beach, or chat with new friends as the guides prepare dinner. Guests are welcome to bring cards, frisbees, a book or small things to entertain themselves.

Drift off to sleep in your sleepings bags under the starry sky.

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Morning

Guides will have coffee brewing when you wake up and begin cooking a hot breakfast.

After breakfast, pack up camp.

Set off on the river casting for trout which winds through the beautiful wilderness. Guides will share stories of the area and point out geological features that make the North Fork unique and special.

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Afternoon

Pull over for lunch and relax before continuing to fish.

After lunch, head back on the river to fish until you reach camp.

Our guides have a keen sense of what flies to use and open to sharing techniques to get a “fish-on.”

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Evening

Once you reach camp there will be plenty of time to relax, fish from the shore, play on the beach or chat with your friends as the guides prepare dinner.

Sleep soundly as the sounds of the river trickle down stream.

Sunrise icon

Morning

Guides will have coffee brewing when you wake up and begin cooking a hot breakfast.

After breakfast, pack up camp.

Set off on the river floating and fishing through the beautiful wilderness.

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Afternoon

Pull over for lunch which is prepared by your guides.

Head back on the river and fish all the way back to town.

Depart the river and shuttle back to Glacier Angler and Outfitter’s headquarters.

Departure Times

Dates Departure Time Trip Length* River Miles
June through September 8:30 a.m. 2 – 3 days 12 – 32 miles
  • Check-in at Paddle Ridge at 8:00 a.m. All guests are asked to stop by Paddle Ridge to meet your guide and get dry bags for your personal belongings the night before if possible. We are located under the giant log arch on the south side of US Highway 2, 1/2 mile west of West Glacier.
  • Montana fishing license is required for all fishing trips with the exception of private pond fishing. Purchase your license at Paddle Ridge or online at Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks.
    • $31.50 for 1-day non-resident license (includes required Montana Conservation License and State Lands License)
    • $73.50 for 5-day non-resident license (includes required Montana Conservation License and State Lands License)
    • $117.50 for season license (non-resident)
  • Children must weigh at least 50lbs.
  • Class II rapids
  • Minimum age dependent on water conditions.
  • *Trip lengths can be customized up to 5 days on the North Fork.

Download Waiver

Save time at check in by bringing your pre-signed waiver.

Glacier Anglers & Outfitters Montana Outfitters License:
Hilary Hutcheson, License # 56666
PO Box 210, West Glacier, MT 59936
406.888.5454
Flathead Forest Service Permit

Tips and Tricks

Montana Fishing License Required

All fly fishing trips require a Montana Fishing License. Licenses can be purchased online or at Paddle Ridge prior to departure.

Departing from Glacier Anglers & Outfitters

Angling trips meet and depart from Glacier Anglers & Outfitters, just outside of West Glacier, Montana.

Location and directions

Fishing Report

Check out our weekly fishing report for up-to-date info on river flow, plus local tips and techniques.

See Fishing Report

Fly Shop

Visit our Fly Shop at Glacier Anglers & Outfitters for all your fishing needs.

Learn More

Stories from Glacier Anglers & Outfitters

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Call an expert today at 1.844.868.7474.
Alternatively, fill out the form below and a member of our team will respond within 24 hours (weekdays) and 48 hours (weekends).

 
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