If you’re planning your next fly fishing adventure in Montana, staying up to date with the Madison River fishing report is essential. Known as one of North America’s premier trout fisheries, the Madison River stretches from Yellowstone National Park to Three Forks, offering diverse fishing experiences across the Upper Madison, Lower Madison, and Ennis Lake sections.
This comprehensive fishing report covers current conditions, fly recommendations, seasonal trends, and local insights to help you fish smarter and maximize your time on the water.
Madison River Overview
The Madison River is legendary for its wild rainbow and brown trout populations. Anglers from around the world visit each year for its consistent hatches, scenic beauty, and challenging yet rewarding waters. The river is typically divided into three main sections:
Upper Madison River – Between Hebgen Lake and Ennis Lake, famous for pocket water and aggressive trout.
Lower Madison River – From Ennis Lake downstream, known for larger runs, warmer water temps in summer, and great spring/fall action.
Ennis Lake – A stillwater gem offering excellent leech and chironomid fishing.
Staying updated with Upper Madison fishing reports, Lower Madison fishing reports, and Ennis Lake updates is crucial to adapting to daily changes in flows, clarity, and hatches.
Upper Madison Fishing Report
The Upper Madison River is fishing extremely well this season. Flows are stable, clarity is excellent, and fish are actively feeding. This section offers exceptional wade fishing opportunities, with productive runs and riffles throughout.
Techniques:
Nymphing remains the most reliable method, especially with stonefly nymphs, caddis pupae, and small mayfly patterns.
Dry-dropper rigs are also producing well during late mornings and afternoons.
Hopper season is in full swing — large terrestrials near banks can bring explosive strikes.
Top Flies:
Stonefly Nymphs (6–10)
Caddis Pupae (14–16)
Parachute Adams (14–18)
Hoppers & Ants (8–12)
Water Clarity: Clear to slightly green
Best Times: Mid-morning through late afternoon
Notable Hatches: PMDs, caddis, terrestrials
Pro Tip: Focus on the pocket water around Lyons Bridge and Raynolds Pass. Trout are holding tight in structure and seams.
Lower Madison Fishing Report
The Lower Madison River is in great shape for early mornings and late evenings. Daytime water temps can rise quickly, so plan accordingly. This stretch fishes best from late spring through early summer, and again in fall when temperatures drop.
Techniques:
Nymphing deep runs with sow bugs, scuds, and small mayflies.
Streamers fished early or during overcast conditions can trigger aggressive takes.
Dry fly action picks up in the evenings with caddis hatches.
Top Flies:
Sow Bugs & Scuds (14–18)
Baetis Nymphs (16–20)
Olive & Black Streamers
Caddis Dry Patterns (14–16)
Water Clarity: Clear
Best Times: Sunrise to 10 a.m. & evenings after 6 p.m.
Notable Hatches: Caddis, Baetis
Pro Tip: Target the deeper runs and shaded banks during the heat of the day. If temps exceed 68°F, consider fishing elsewhere to protect the trout.
Ennis Lake Fishing Report
Ennis Lake continues to produce excellent early morning and evening fishing. This stillwater fishery is often overlooked but offers some of the largest trout in the system.
Techniques:
Stripping leeches and small streamers near drop-offs.
Chironomid rigs under indicators in inflow zones.
Targeting feeding trout cruising in shallow water at first light.
Top Flies:
Black & Olive Leeches
Chironomids (16–20)
Damsel Nymphs
Best Times: Sunrise & sunset
Water Clarity: Good
Seasonal Madison River Fishing Trends
| Season | Conditions & Techniques |
|---|---|
| Spring | Pre-runoff nymphing and streamer action are excellent. Fish are aggressive in warming water. |
| Summer | Hopper season on the Upper Madison. Dry fly fishing peaks. Lower Madison requires early/late strategy due to warm temps. |
| Fall | Big browns on the move. Streamer fishing is at its best; Baetis hatches keep fish looking up. |
| Winter | Slower pace, but nymphing deep pools can still be productive for locals. |
Fly Selection & Hatch Chart
| Fly Pattern | Season | Section | Best Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stonefly Nymphs | Spring/Summer | Upper Madison | Nymphing deep runs |
| Caddis Pupae | Summer | Upper & Lower | Mid-day nymphing |
| Hoppers | Summer | Upper | Afternoon near the banks |
| Sow Bugs & Scuds | Spring/Fall | Lower | Deep nymph rigs |
| Leeches | Spring/Fall | Ennis Lake | Stripping near drop-offs |
| Chironomids | Spring/Fall | Ennis Lake | Indicator fishing |
Madison River Fishing Conditions Summary
Flows: Stable across Upper & Lower sections
Water Temps: 52–62°F (Upper), 58–70°F (Lower)
Clarity: Excellent visibility throughout
Pressure: Moderate — weekdays offer better solitude
Expert Tips for Madison River Anglers
Match the Hatch – Always carry seasonal patterns. Madison trout are selective.
Fish Smart in Heat – Avoid fishing Lower Madison during peak heat to protect fish health.
Stay Mobile – Move between Upper, Lower, and Ennis sections to match conditions.
Use Wading Opportunities – Especially effective in the Upper Madison pocket water.
Respect Regulations – Check Yellowstone Park boundaries and seasonal closures.
Daily Madison River Fishing Reports
For the most up-to-date Madison River fishing reports across Upper Madison, Lower Madison, West Yellowstone, and Ennis Lake, trust Fish Nation.
📧 Email: info@fish-nation.com
📞 Phone: +1 307-637-5495