The Lower Madison River is fishing best in the mornings right now. Water is warm, and hoot owl restrictions are in effect from Warm Springs to the confluence with the Jefferson, no fishing after 2 p.m.
Early windows, from first light through mid-morning have been the most productive. Fish are feeding, but you’ve got to be out there before the heat sets in.
Dry dropper rigs are still your best setup. A foam attractor with a short dropper about 12 to 16 inches below, off the hook bend of the lead fly has been getting the job done. Most takes are happening subsurface. Crayfish patterns, small perdigons, and caddis nymphs are solid options. Especially when drifted through mid-river seams and the deeper slots along weed beds, but we have still been seeing a few fish willing to rise out of buckets on chubbies and hoppers.
As the sun climbs, switching to a two-fly nymph rig can help. Zirdles or larger stonefly patterns followed by something smaller like a pheasant tail or rainbow warrior perdigon have been consistent. Focus on shaded water and slower pockets where fish can conserve energy. It’s technical fishing but still worth your time if you work for it.
Streamer bites are short but possible, especially in low light or during a passing cloud. Stick to smaller sculpin-style patterns and fish them near structure early before the river gets busy.
Traffic on the Lower is high this time of year with floaters and recreation. That means picking your spots matters, look for quieter water and work it thoroughly. A stealthy approach and good presentation go a long way.
Helpful Articles (click to read):
- Lower Madison River Fly Fishing in July
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