August 12, 2023 Lower Madison Fishing Report
Date: 08/12/2023
Posted by: Toby SwankCurrent Conditions
The lower Madison cooled down last week and the Hoot Owl restrictions were lifted - they will likely be re-instated soon as the weather forecast ahead is for some more hot and dry conditions. The river has been fishing surprisingly well, early in the day, with hopper/dropper rigs fished along weed-bed seams and in the faster runs with some depth. Recreational floaters have been hitting the river as hard as ever...go early and plan to be off the water by early afternoon to avoid the masses and to give th fish a break with warm water conditions.
Be sure to check with MT Fish, Wildlife, and Parks as you head to various fisheries this time of the year as restrictions vary across the state and from year to year. Here is a link to the Closures and Restrictions page on the FWP website/
Stream Flows
Flows
Recommended Flies
Tan Morrish Hopper
Lower Madison River Fishing
The lower Madison River has diverse wild-trout habitats from Ennis Lake to Three Forks. Beartrap Canyon has raging whitewater through boulder fields and narrow gorges. The river flows through a rugged valley before joining with the Jefferson and Gallatin Rivers. Fish species include Rainbow, Westslope Cutthroat, and Brown Trout. Both novice and advanced anglers can find ample opportunities to fish.
Read the "Lower Madison River Fishing Guide" for a comprehensive introduction to fly fishing in Montana on the lower Madison River from the Bozeman fly fishing guides with Fins and Feathers.
