Lower Madison River Fishing Report
Date: 10/10/2025
Posted by: Toby SwankCurrent Conditions
The Lower Madison River is in strong shape right now. Clarity is good, flows are stable, and the river is settled after the last rain event. Trout are feeding steadily during the warmer parts of the day, and anglers are finding action through most of the main runs.
Nymphing is still your dependable choice. Patterns like zirdles, wiggle worms, and soft hackles are doing the work, especially when trailed by smaller droppers like perdigons, princes, or midges. Traversing buckets, soft runs, and edges has been pulling fish.
Streamer fishing is holding up well. The cloud coverage over the next few days should improve the bite. fishing a 7-weight with a light sink-tip through the deeper water and structure. Olives, grays, and whites have been solid colors lately.
Dry fly action is light but increasing. Small mayflies and possibly early BWOs may begin showing on cloudy or calm afternoons. It’s not strong yet, but when you see heads coming up, having emergers or parachutes ready could pay off.
Overall, the Lower Madison is offering good fall fishing. Nymphs are your anchor, streamers are holding their own, and dry fly windows may finally start opening — especially if cloud cover and cooler weather persist.
Helpful Articles (click to read):
- Lower Madison River Fishing in October
- Bozeman Fly Fishing in October
Stream Flows
Flows
Recommended Flies
Copper Zonker
Olive and Orange Zirdle
Tan Clouser
Rainbow Spanish Bullet
Red Copper John
Gold Lightning Bug
Olive Mini Dungeon
Sparkle Minnow
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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