Fishing Report, February 4
The last week in the Flathead Valley has been characterized by unseasonably mild, sunny days balanced by the cold nights needed to maintain our conditions. Thanks to those freezing overnight temperatures, ice fishing has been good, with solid caps holding firm and fish biting consistently across local lakes. At the same time, the Flathead River has been fishing great, boasting high flows that have the trout active and feeding aggressively. It is a rare mid-winter treat to have both the hardwater and the open river producing such high-quality action simultaneously. Overall, the valley is offering a fantastic window for anglers to enjoy the sunshine while hooking into fish on both ice and water.
Fishing Report, Whitefish
Stillwater lakes: Ice Fishing Update
Up north on the Stillwater lakes, the ice is holding steady at a reliable 12-15nches. We are seeing a high volume of perch, and while there are plenty of smaller ones to keep the kids busy, the “jumbo” class is showing up frequently for those moving around to find the schools. pike activity has also been solid on tip-ups, with several decent-sized fish being pulled from the weed edges. It’s a great time to get out and enjoy the warmer weather and great ice conditions.
Flathead River: Flows and Temps
The Flathead River is currently in excellent shape, flowing at approximately 6,900 cfs, which remains well above the seasonal average. Water temperatures are peaking at 39 on sunny days. , keeping the fish active and feeding in the slower, deeper winter runs. This increased volume continues to push plenty of food through the system, making for some very “happy” trout that are responding well to mid-day nymphing and streamers.
Fishing Report, Kalispell
Kalispell Area: Thompson Chain of Lakes (TCL) Ice Report
The Thompson Chain of Lakes is currently the place to be for anyone looking to target quality fish. We are seeing a very consistent bite for those larger “jumbo” perch that have been the highlight of the season so far. We haven’t been getting big numbers of perch but the ones we’ve been catching are pounders with a few plus-sized pounders in the mix. Additionally, the grayling have been incredibly active and are proving to be a blast to target through the ice. With the ice conditions holding firm, it is a perfect time to head west of town and enjoy some of the best multi-species action in the valley.
Guided Trips
We are currently offering premium guided adventures for both ice fishing on our local lakes and fly fishing on the Flathead River. The hardwater season is in full swing with solid ice and jumbo perch, while the river is boasting high flows and active, happy trout. Both options are providing incredible action right now, making it a perfect time to get out and experience the best of Montana’s winter fishing. Our expert guides provide all the high-end gear and instruction to ensure your day on the water or ice is completely hassle-free. We pride ourselves on top-notch customer service and have the capacity to comfortably accommodate groups of any size. Whether you want to jig for trophy perch or drift a stonefly through a river seam, call us anytime at 406-233-9001 to book your 2026 fishing adventure.
