Flathead Lake

Flathead Lake

Kalispell, Flathead County, MT
197mi²
881.00ft
Directions
Lake Information

Flathead Lake, located in Flathead County, Montana, is a stunning body of water that spans over 26,080 acres. The lake is one of the largest freshwater lakes on the West Coast and is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, making it an ideal spot for water activities such as sailing, speed boating, and fishing. With thirteen public access points, it is easy for visitors to get on the water from any direction. While visitors on the southern part of the lake need to buy a tribal recreation permit due to its location on the Flathead Reservation boundary, the rest of the lake is open for exploration. Flathead Lake is also known for its scenic beauty and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and forests. The west shore of the lake is particularly noteworthy, as it is home to Wildhorse Island State Park. This park can only be accessed by boat and is home to hiking trails that provide an excellent view of bald eagles and wild horses. The island is a popular spot for hiking, picnicking, and wildlife viewing, offering visitors a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the area. Fishing is another popular activity at Flathead Lake, with the lake being home to a variety of fish species, including trout, bass, and pike. Fishing enthusiasts can also participate in the annual Mack Days fishing tournament, held each spring and fall, which awards prizes for the most fish caught. With its ample recreational opportunities, stunning scenery, and unique natural features, Flathead Lake is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to spend their summer vacation in the great outdoors. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, the lake offers something for everyone, making it the perfect spot for a family vacation, romantic getaway, or solo adventure.

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Current Conditions

63°F°
Feels like 66°F°
MostlyClear
Today's High
68°F°
Today's Low
43°F°

Water Temperature

35°F
Updated: (May 1)
Sign in to contribute temps.

Current water temperature for Flathead Lake is 35°F.

Current Snapshot

Wind2 mph S (Gust 4 mph)
Pressure
30.01 inHg
Visibility27 mi
Humidity41%
Cloud Cover27%

Forecast: Friday, May 2

Day 1 of 9

Hourly Insights

7 AM
44°F°
10 AM
49°F°
1 PM
58°F°
4 PM
67°F°

Temperature

High
68°F°
Low
43°F°

Precipitation

Chance0%
Amount0.00"
Typeclear

Wind

4mph
Avg Speed
Gusts up to
13mph
CalmModerateStrong
Max Speed8 mph

Sun, Moon & UV

Sunrise12:16 PM
Sunset2:51 AM
Moon PhasewaxingCrescent
Max UV Index8 (Very High)

Solunar Fishing Forecast

Action Rating
3/5

Todays action is rated a 3 (scale is 0 thru 5, 5 is the best)

Major Times (Best)

12:08 AM - 2:38 AM

8:18 AM - 10:48 AM

Minor Times (Good)

3:34 PM - 5:04 PM

7:49 AM - 9:19 AM

Outlook for Friday at Flathead Lake

Expect temperatures ranging from 43°F to 68°F. Skies look mostly clear with little chance of precipitation. Winds will be averaging 4 mph, with potential gusts reaching up to 13 mph. The maximum UV index will be 8 (Very High), so plan sun protection accordingly. For anglers, today's fishing action is rated 3/5 (Todays action is rated a 3 (scale is 0 thru 5, 5 is the best)). Look for the best bite times during the major periods around 12:08 AM and 8:18 AM, or try the minor windows near 3:34 PM and 7:49 AM for potential early morning or evening action. Check back for the latest conditions and forecasts for Flathead Lake.

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May 2nd 2025

Lake Information

Elevation
881 ft
Area
197 mi²
Coordinates
47.790, -114.091

Weather Forecast

Friday

68°F
43°F

Saturday

69°F
47°F

Sunday

52°F
42°F

Monday

54°F
41°F

Tuesday

58°F
38°F

Wednesday

67°F
43°F

Thursday

64°F
48°F

Friday

68°F
45°F

Saturday

71°F
46°F
Friday - 5/2/2025
68°F
43°F
12am
52°F
35°F
29.98 hPa
4 mph
SSW
G: 4 mph
2am
50°F
35°F
29.98 hPa
3 mph
SW
G: 3 mph
4am
46°F
35°F
29.96 hPa
5 mph
NW
G: 5 mph
6am
45°F
35°F
29.97 hPa
1 mph
NW
G: 1 mph
8am
47°F
35°F
29.96 hPa
4 mph
NNW
G: 5 mph
10am
49°F
35°F
29.93 hPa
3 mph
NNW
G: 4 mph
12pm
55°F
35°F
29.91 hPa
1 mph
SW
G: 4 mph
2pm
61°F
35°F
29.87 hPa
3 mph
E
G: 6 mph
4pm
67°F
35°F
29.81 hPa
8 mph
SE
G: 13 mph
6pm
67°F
35°F
29.77 hPa
8 mph
SSE
G: 12 mph
8pm
64°F
35°F
29.74 hPa
6 mph
S
G: 8 mph
10pm
60°F
35°F
29.77 hPa
4 mph
SSE
G: 8 mph

Water Temperature History

Trends for Flathead Lake

Current Temp

Sign in to view

Latest recorded surface temperature.

Lowest in Period

33°F

On Jan 1

Coldest point in the Last 12 Months.

Average in Period

50°F

Typical temp during the Last 12 Months.

Temperature Trend: Last 12 Months

Surface temperature over the selected period.

Key Observations (Last 12 Months)

  • Warmest avg: July (71°F).
  • Coolest avg: February (35°F).
  • Rapid warming often occurs: February → March (+31°F).
  • Sharpest cooling trend: March → April (-28°F).

Weather Forecast

Wind speed and pressure trends

Hourly Wind Forecast

Wind Direction

208°

Pressure

1015 mb

Cloud Cover

9%

Visibility

24 miles

Daily Pressure Forecast

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Frequently Asked Questions About Flathead Lake

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