Lower Madison River Fishing Report
Date: 11/19/2025
Posted by: Toby SwankCurrent Conditions
The Lower Madison River has settled into a good late-fall pattern. Mornings are cold and quiet, but once the sun gets on the water, the river starts to fish well. Water clarity is good, and there’s plenty of room out there with lighter traffic this time of year.
Nymphing has been the most productive. Zirdles and smaller crayfish patterns have been working well as the first fly, with little green machines, zebra midges, worm, and egg patterns below. A 9-foot fluorocarbon leader of 3X or 4X is a simple, effective setup, running 4X fluorocarbon from the lead fly to the dropper.
Streamer anglers are finding some nice fish during cloudy stretches. Patterns like kreelixs, mini dungeons, and goldies are good choices right now, especially in natural tones. A short 5–6 foot leader of 1X or 0X fluorocarbon gives enough turnover to work those flies along the deeper edges and mid-river buckets.
Dry-fly chances are limited but still possible on warmer afternoons. A few BWOs and midges are drifting around, and some trout have been rising in softer water along the edges. Having a couple size 16–18 parachutes or emergers in your pack is never a bad idea this time of year.
If you’re heading that way, plan on a later start. The Lower Madison has been fishing best once the day warms up, and it’s a comfortable, consistent option as we move deeper into November.
Helpful Articles (click to read):
- Lower Madison River Fall Fishing
- Bozeman Fly Fishing In November
Stream Flows
Flows
Recommended Flies
BWO Sparkle Dun
Rainbow Spanish Bullet
Copper Zonker
Gold Lightning Bug
Red Copper John
Tan Clouser
BWO Hi-Vis Parachute
Olive and Orange Zirdle
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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