The Clark has less mud than the Blackfoot but it's kind like how anything divided by 0 is still 0. There is still mud all up that system. Not for long tho! Usually the Clark clears out pretty quick. This weekend should be firing!

The Clark Fork is still running big through Missoula, but it is starting to trend in the right direction. Flows have dropped over the last few days, and that is helping the fishing outlook. The river is still carrying a lot of water, so anglers should continue to use caution around the banks and avoid any risky wading. That said, dropping flows and warmer weather are both good signs, and the Clark Fork should keep fishing better as the water settles.

The best fishing right now will be in the softer water. Focus on inside bends, slow bank seams, back eddies, foam lines, side channels, and any walking-speed current where trout can get out of the main push. Fish do not need to be far from the bank when the river is this high. Work the edges carefully before stepping in, because plenty of trout will be holding closer than expected.

Nymphing is still the most dependable approach. Larger stonefly nymphs, Pat’s Rubber Legs, worms, jig-style attractors, caddis pupa, PMD nymphs, Prince Nymphs, Pheasant Tails, and Perdigons are all good options. Use enough weight to get down, but keep your drifts in softer lanes where fish can actually move to eat. Short, controlled presentations along the bank and through slower seams should be more productive than long casts into the heavy middle current.

Dry-dropper fishing is becoming a better option as the river continues to drop. A Chubby Chernobyl, Water Walker, Golden Stone dry, Purple Haze, Parachute Adams, PMD cripple, Elk Hair Caddis, X-Caddis, or small attractor dry can all be worth fishing in the right water. The best dry-fly chances will be in protected edges, slow foam lines, and side-channel water, especially if bugs are active and fish are able to feed without fighting the current.

Streamer fishing is also worth keeping in the rotation. Olive, black, brown, white, and lightly flashy patterns can all move fish in the softer buckets and along structure. Try Sparkle Minnows, Sculpzillas, Mini Dungeons, Kreelex-style patterns, Buggers, and smaller articulated streamers. Keep the fly near the bank, work it through slower holding water, and avoid ripping it too fast through the heavier current.

Bug activity is improving with the early-summer weather pattern. Caddis, PMDs, Yellow Sallies, Golden Stones, and smaller mayflies are all worth being prepared for. Bright sun may make the middle of the day a little tougher on top, while clouds, light rain, or softer evening light could help bring fish closer to the surface. If you see fish rising in slow water, take the time to match the speed of the current and make a clean first presentation.

The next few days look like a mixed but improving window. Rain and thunderstorms are possible tonight into Thursday morning, but Friday looks warmer and sunnier before cooler weather returns over the weekend. If the Clark Fork continues to drop and clarity improves, fishing should keep getting better. For now, stay safe, fish the margins, and focus on soft water with nymphs, dry-droppers, and streamers.