Lower Madison River Fishing Report
Date: 07/16/2026
Posted by: Toby SwankCurrent Conditions
The Lower Madison River has officially moved into its summer routine. Hoot owl restrictions are now in place on the entire river, so there is no fishing after 2 p.m. If you're planning on fishing the Lower, be on the water early and plan on calling it a day before the heat really sets in.
The good news is the morning fishing has been solid. From first light through late morning, fish have been active and there are still enough caddis around to keep them looking up. Once the sun gets high, the fishing slows down and water temperatures become the bigger concern.
A dry-dropper has been a good way to cover water. Fish a chubby with a smaller perdigon or yellow sally nymph underneath through the riffles and buckets. If the dry isn't getting much attention, don't change flies right away. Make another pass with the nymph a little deeper.
The Lower still has good fishing left in it each morning, but it's not an all-day river anymore. There are simply better options once the afternoon rolls around.
Helpful Articles (click to read):
- The Best Bozeman Fly Fishing in July
Stream Flows
View stream flow graph on USGS
Recommended Flies
Yellow Sally Stimi
Rainbow Spanish Bullet
PMD Jigster
Olive and Orange Zirdle
Dead Drift Crayfish
PMD Comparadun
Tan Clouser
Yellow Saly Bullet
Lower Madison River Fishing
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.
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