Lower Madison River Fishing Report
Date: 04/24/2025
Posted by: Toby SwankCurrent Conditions
The Lower Madison River is fishing well right now with stable flows and water temperatures hovering near 47°F, conditions are lining up perfectly for increased bug and trout activity. The river is mostly clear, though anglers should be aware of occasional color changes caused by runoff from tributaries and Ennis Lake sediment, this time of year. Expect flows to rise as the weather warms up over the next few days.
Fish are becoming more active as the days warm up. Expect trout to be holding in a variety of water types—from deeper runs and tailouts to the slower seams near grassy banks. Slower mornings are pretty typical right now, but things have been picking up as the day progresses.
Blue-winged olive (BWO) and midge hatches have been sporadic, with a few fish rising along gentle seams during midday hours on cloudy days.
We had our first caddis sightings this afternoon on the lower river, near Greycliffs – expect to see big numbers of bugs this weekend as it warms up!
Nymphing remains the most productive method overall, especially in the morning and on colder days. Fish are still holding in the buckets and deeper runs with moderate currents. As things warm up, expect to start finding them on the skinny flats around the weed beds.
Standard setups that include a crayfish or small sculpin followed by a San Juan Worm or Pink Perdigon dropper have been the most consistent setups.
Conditions are difficult to predict this time of year as it can be calm, here in Bozeman and ripping windy out there. One tool we use is NOAA's Norris Hill weather station. If its's really blowing there, its likley blowing pretty good out on the lower as well - but that isn't always the case as that station is located at the top of Norris Pass. It's worth checking out though so that you can come up with a plan B if it turns out to be too windy once you hit Black's Ford.
Helpful Articles (click to read):
- Lower Madison River Fly Fishing in April
- Guide to Fly Fishing the Lower Madison River
- Bozeman Fly Fishing in April
Stream Flows
Flows
Recommended Flies
Dead Drift Crayfish
Tan Clouser
Hot Pink San Juan Worm
Pink Lite Brite Perdigon
Peacock Elk Hair Caddis
Ginger Sparkle Pupa
BWO Hi-Vis Parachute
Royal Wulff
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.
Additional Resources
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Category: Lower Madison River Fishing Information
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