July 31, 2023 Lower Madison Fishing Report
Date: 07/31/2023
Posted by: Toby SwankCurrent Conditions
This is the time of the year when the lower Madison is best left to the recreational floaters! Water temperatures are very warm and the river is currently on Hoot Owl restrictions, meaning that the river is closed to fishing from 2pm to Midnight. Currently, the restrictions are in place from Warm Springs FAS to the confluence of the Jefferson and Gallatin rivers near Three Forks. The river is closed to fishing -entirely- from Ennis Dam to Warm Springs FAS as Ennis Lake Temperatures are very warm as well.
If you want to fish for a few hours, early in the morning, expect lots of floating grass and warm water. Fish will eat a hopper dropper rig every once awhile, just keep them in the water, play the, quickly and fish heavy tippet.
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.