Lower Madison River Fishing Report
Date: 03/09/2026
Posted by: Toby SwankCurrent Conditions
The Lower Madison River has been a good early spring option lately. Fish are feeding consistently, and nymphing has been producing the most action. Focus on the deeper runs and slower buckets where fish are holding close to the bottom.
Late morning through the afternoon has been the best window. Mornings can start slow, but once the sun has been on the water for a while fish begin feeding more regularly.
Nymphing is the primary approach. zirdles, clouser crays, and dead drift crays have been good lead flies right now with a sunburst perdigon or yellow sally nymph below. Fish the rig deep through the heavier runs and along the slower inside water. If you’re not occasionally ticking bottom, add weight before changing flies.
Streamer fishing can also move fish if you want to cover water. Sculpin patterns and small baitfish patterns stripped along deeper banks can pull a few aggressive browns.
Dry fly fishing is still limited. You may see a few midges on calm afternoons, but it’s not something to plan your day around.
Overall the Lower Madison River has been a good early spring choice. Focus on the warmer part of the day, fish deeper water, and keep your flies near the bottom.
Helpful Articles (click to read):
-Lower Madison River Fly Fishing In Spring
- Fly Fishing Bozeman In March
Stream Flows
Flows
Recommended Flies
Iron Sally
Pheasant Tail
Dead Drift Crayfish
Yellow Saly Bullet
Copper Zonker
Olive and Orange Zirdle
Tan Clouser
Gold Lightning Bug
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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