The largest natural fresh-water lake in the western United States is about 69 miles north of Missoula between Polson and Kalispell. Flathead is known for its quality fishing for lake trout, whitefish, cutthroat trout, perch and bass, and its East Shore drive, bordered by the majestic Mission Mountain Range. An hour's drive from Missoula by taking Highway 200 east to Clearwater Junction and Highway 93 north to the lake. Seeley Lake is a popular lake with many cottages and resorts, public beaches, water skiing, swimming and picnicking sites. It has a maximum depth of 125 feet.
Anglers can fish for perch, bass, pike, cutthroat and rainbow trout, and kokanee salmon.
South of Philipsburg. The most heavily fished lake in western Montana, with a population of kokanee salmon, rainbow trout and brook trout. Popular for ice fishing during the winter. Placid Lake State Park. Take Highway 200 East about 40 miles to the Clearwater Junction.