The Clark Fork is in good shape and continuing to improve as flows drop and clarity settles in around Missoula. The river is still carrying enough water to keep fish comfortable, but it is much more manageable than it was during runoff. Trout are spreading into more typical summer holding water, including grassy banks, inside bends, soft seams, foam lines, and slower shelves near heavier current.

Golden Stones are becoming the main focus, with Salmonflies fading out in most places. PMDs, Green Drakes, Yellow Sallies, and caddis are also active and should provide solid opportunities throughout the day. Caddis should be best in the evening, while PMDs and Green Drakes may be more noticeable during cloudy or softer-light windows.

Dry-dropper rigs are a great way to cover water right now. A Golden Stone, Chubby, or Water Walker on top with a smaller nymph underneath will fish well along banks, buckets, and slower edges. Nymphing will still be the most consistent option when the sun is high or fish are not fully committing to the surface. Streamers are also worth fishing early, late, or through shaded banks and deeper buckets.

The weather looks mostly favorable, with warmer temperatures returning after a brief cool-down. Keep an eye on Friday night into Saturday, when thunderstorms and heavier rain could affect clarity or bump flows. If the river continues to drop and stay clear, the Clark Fork should keep fishing well. Focus on Golden Stones first, but be ready for PMDs, caddis, Yellow Sallies, and Green Drakes as the day goes on.

What's Working

Dry Flies

• Salmonflies #4-6
• Golden Stones #6-8
• Water Walkers
• Chubby Chernobyls
• PMDs #16-18
• Elk Hair Caddis #14-16

Nymphs

• Pat's Rubber Legs
• TJ Hooker
• Frenchies
• Psycho May
• Perdigons
• Jigged Hare's Ears

Streamers

• Sparkle Minnows
• Swim Coach
• Mini Dungeons
• Peanut Envy
• Olive and black articulated patterns

The Clark Fork should continue improving as flows gradually drop and fish settle into more predictable summer water. Stoneflies will remain the headline attraction, while PMDs and caddis become increasingly important. Anglers targeting softer edges, side channels, and structure-oriented water should find consistent action, with some excellent dry fly opportunities developing whenever hatch activity peaks.