Lower Madison River Fishing Report
Date: 09/14/2026
Posted by: Toby SwankCurrent Conditions
The Lower Madison River has been one of the better options around Bozeman over the past several days. Cooler temperatures have made a noticeable difference, and anglers are finding consistent fishing from the morning through much of the day. The river has also responded well to the recent weather, with streamer fishing starting to improve as fish become more aggressive heading into fall.
Nymphing has been tough to beat. Fish a natural or olive deadrift cray with a size 18 rainbow warrior or black spanish bullet underneath. Smaller nymphs have consistently outperformed the lead fly, and making sure the rig is getting down has been more important than changing flies.
If the wind picks up or clouds move in, don't overlook streamer fishing. Olive, black, and white patterns have been moving more fish every day, especially through the deeper runs and around structure.
The Lower has made a big turnaround over the last couple of weeks and is fishing as well as it has in quite a while. It's a solid choice right now for anglers looking to stay close to Bozeman.
Helpful Articles (click to read):
Stream Flows
View stream flow graph on USGS
Recommended Flies
Rainbow Spanish Bullet
Olive and Orange Zirdle
Dead Drift Crayfish
Tan Clouser
Olive Clouser Crayfish
Dark Olive Spanish Perdigon
Black and Red Spanish Perdigon
Tungsten Jigged Prince
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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