Flathead Lake
As the largest body of natural fresh water west of the Continental Divide, Flathead Lake provides excellent fishing opportunities. Nearly 28 miles long, 15 miles wide, and covering an area of over 120,320 acres, Flathead Lake is home to several species of fish. Most abundant are lake trout and whitefish. You might also find rainbow trout, northern pike, and bull trout. more info
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The lake trout grow very large in Flathead Lake, and it is not uncommon to find a 20 lb. fish. The largest fish ever caught in all of Montana was caught in Flathead Lake in the summer of 2004. Caught by Ruth Barber, her trout weighed 42 lbs. 11.8 ounces and was 42.5 inches long with a girth of 31 inches.
Although the fish are large and plentiful, Flathead Lake is not necessarily good for fly fishing. Most fish live in the deep cooler waters during the warmer months, and fishing usually requires a boat and trolling equipment. The fall provides the best opportunity to fly fish in Flathead Lake when trout swim up to the shorelines. Because they are so abundant, you may keep any lake trout or whitefish caught in Flathead Lake. However, you are required to release any bull trout. Bull trout are a threatened species making them illegal to catch. If you find yourself catching a few, move your boat to a different area of the lake.
Lake trout are found in deep cool water and where schools of bait-fish and mysis shrimp are located. Look for areas with steep slopes and drop-offs. Lake trout will bight at any time of the day. However, the best time to fish is during the early morning when the sunlight is not intense. Fishing in the evening can also be successful.
Many lake trout are caught with spinning gear using flies, spoons, jigs, and cut bait. You might also try scenting your lures with cut bait as lake trout have keen senses of smell. Lake trout are also attracted to color and are drawn to bright orange, red, green and fluorescent lures.
Before embarking on your Flathead fishing adventure, it is wise to check weather reports and make sure that your boat is in good working condition and has sufficient amounts of fuel. Let others know where you are going and when you are planning to return.
63FOther pages you might find helpful:
Fishing around Flathead Lake
Swan Lake is a Montana fishing hot spot.
