Thank you for checking out our most recent upper Madison River fishing report. It is our goal to keep this page updated on a regular basis to serve as a resource for those of you planning your visit to Montana. Please refer to the information below consisting of fishing techniques, fly patterns, Madison River flows and the weather in Ennis, Montana. We encourage you to give us a call for more information not detailed in our fishing report.
The Upper Madison is entering that classic late May transition period where conditions can change quickly day to day. Water clarity will likely fluctuate as runoff gradually builds, but fishing should remain productive throughout much of the system. Anglers willing to adjust tactics based on water color and weather conditions should continue finding good opportunities from Quake Lake all the way downstream to Ennis Lake.
Warm daytime temperatures and scattered afternoon thunderstorms continue across the Madison Valley. Current forecasts show several days in the upper 70s and low 80s mixed with periodic cooling and rain chances heading into the weekend. These temperature swings should continue accelerating runoff while maintaining solid bug activity during afternoon and evening windows.
Current USGS gauges show the Upper Madison steadily climbing but still below typical heavy runoff levels for late May. Kirby Ranch recently measured around 864 CFS, which remains under long-term median flow statistics for this date. The river below Hebgen has remained relatively stable while downstream sections near Cameron are beginning to pick up additional volume and color. Moderate turbidity is now becoming part of the daily cycle throughout much of the river between Quake Lake and Ennis Lake. At this point, the Upper Madison feels more like a gradual seasonal transition than a major runoff event. Unless significant heat or widespread rainfall arrives, conditions should remain manageable for both wade and float anglers for the near future.
Caddis continue to be the primary hatch throughout much of the system, especially during warmer afternoons and evenings. Blue Winged Olives are still present during cloud cover and cooler periods, while March Browns continue appearing in select sections of the river. As water temperatures continue climbing, expect overall bug activity to steadily improve throughout the Upper Madison corridor over the coming weeks.
Nymphing continues producing the most consistent fishing during mornings and periods of increased turbidity. Larger attractor patterns paired with smaller mayfly or caddis imitations have been productive through deeper runs, buckets, and softer shelves. Dry dropper fishing improves significantly during the afternoon once temperatures rise and caddis activity increases. Fish are beginning to move toward the surface more consistently during lower light periods. Streamer fishing has become increasingly productive with the added color in the river. Olive, black, and white patterns stripped along cutbanks, submerged grass, and softer structure have been moving quality fish throughout the system.
To simplify things, you can expect Madison River trout to eat just about every classic trout pattern ever tied depending on the time of year. Known for prolific stonefly, caddis, mayfly and midge hatches, the trout of the Madison aren't as picky as other rivers. If you get the size and color right, chances are they'll eat it so long as you have the correct presentation. Certainly there are some local secrets, but if you stock up on the basics you should be just fine!
A 5 or 6 WT fly rod is ideal for most fly fishing situations on the Madison River. The Madison Valley can be a breezy place and with such a wide river it can help to have a little extra power in your cast. We tend to prefer fast action fly rods for this reason. Your fly line is arguably more important than your fly rod though. Half size heavy weight forward floating lines are the ideal compliment to a modern fast action rod.
A slow action 3-5 WT certainly has its time and place on this river, especially during the caddis, midge and BWO hatches. 7 WT rods are commonly fished with short sink-tip fly lines and big streamers. They also come in handy during the salmonfly hatch when you're casting a 3" long foam body dry fly.
Breathable waders and sturdy boots are often a necessity during the spring and fall months. Your best soles for traction are felt with carbide tipped studs. Be aware that many Madison River fly fishing guides do not allow studs in their boats. It is rare that waders are required between June 15-September 15. During these months, some lightweight boots or water shoes/sandals are preferred.
Above all else, quality clothing and accessories for all types of weather are essential for staying comfortable during the day. Montana can throw just about any type of weather your way so be prepared with a well thought out layering system to handle the often cold mornings and warm afternoons.
Join us October 6-10 at a discounted rate for 4 nights & 3 days of guided streamer fishing. We'll fish a variety of water in hopes of landing a trophy. Expect to learn from the best and make a lot of casts!
These openings are rare and don't last long, so be quick to claim them. Just give us a call!
