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Lower Madison River Fishing Report

Date: 10/30/2025
Posted by: Toby Swank

Current Conditions

The Lower Madison River has been fishing well. Expect clear water and stable late-October conditions. Daytime temperatures have leveled out, keeping the river in good shape and fishing consistent through the week.

Nymphing remains the most dependable tactic. Worms, zirdles, and small crayfish patterns are effective lead flies, while zebra midges and pill poppers continue to produce as droppers. Adjusting weight and depth has helped maintain steady action.

Streamer fishing has improved as fall progresses. Sparkle minnows, goldies, and other small baitfish imitations continue to move nicer fish, especially under cloud cover or during lower-light hours.

Blue-winged olive activity continues to build. Fish are beginning to rise more often during calm afternoons, so having small emergers or parachutes on hand is worthwhile.

The Lower Madison is fishing well and remains a reliable late-season option. Nymphs are consistent, streamers are productive, and BWO activity is adding more surface opportunity each day.

Helpful Articles (click to read):

- Lower Madison River Fishing in October

- Bozeman Fly Fishing in October

    Stream Flows

    Lower Madison River Fishing Report Streamflow

    Flows

    Recommended Flies

    				  BWO Hi Vis Parachute

    BWO Hi-Vis Parachute

    				  BWO sparkle dun

    BWO Sparkle Dun

    				  Olive and Orange Zirdle 1

    Olive and Orange Zirdle

    				  Copperzonker

    Copper Zonker

    				  Rainbow spanish bullet

    Rainbow Spanish Bullet

    				  Montana fly fishing staple for many conditions when imitating Mayflies.

    Gold Lightning Bug

    				  Tan clouser crayfish

    Tan Clouser

    				  Copper John Red

    Red Copper John

    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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    Lower Madison River Fly Fishing Area Map



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