Lower Madison River Fishing Report
Date: 08/28/2026
Posted by: Toby SwankCurrent Conditions
The Lower Madison River has been fishing better after the cooler weather and rain this week. It still isn't an all-day river, but the first few hours of the morning have been worthwhile again, and anglers have been finding a lot more active fish than they were a couple of weeks ago.
The section from Madison Dam to the NorthWestern Energy powerhouse remains closed, and hoot owl restrictions are still in effect below the powerhouse to the Jefferson River, so plan to be off the water by 2 p.m.
Hopper fishing has been the best way to cover water. Fish a Henneberry or Morrish hopper, and if fish aren't willing to come up, drop a pat's rubberlegs underneath. The deeper runs and buckets have been fishing the best during the morning while water temperatures are still cool.
Helpful Articles (click to read):
- Bozeman Fly Fishing Report | August 2026 Montana Conditions
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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