Described herein are embodiments of a fluid filter for combustion engine systems and associated methods. According to one exemplary embodiment, a fluid filter apparatus for reducing re-entrainment of contaminant particles into post-filtration fluid flow due at least in part to a fluid flow surge includes at least one fluid filter and a fluid flow diverting element that is coupled to the fluid filter. The fluid filter includes at least one fluid filtering medium that is communicable in fluid flow receiving communication with a fluid flowing along a first fluid flow path during a fluid flow non-surge event. During a fluid flow surge event, the fluid flow diverting element is capable of diverting at least some of the fluid from the first fluid flow path to a second fluid flow path.