Lower Madison River Fishing Report
Date: 11/26/2025
Posted by: Toby SwankCurrent Conditions
The Lower Madison River has been a reliable option this week. Early mornings are still pretty cold and slow, but once the sun gets higher and the day warms up, the river has been fishing nicely from Beartrap down toward Black’s Ford. Water clarity is good and overall conditions are stable for this time of year.
Nymphing has been the most productive approach. Zirdles and smaller crayfish patterns are good lead flies right now, with zebra midges, little green machines, and small perdigons doing well as droppers. A 9-foot fluorocarbon leader of 3X or 4X works across most sections, running 4X fluorocarbon from the first fly to the second to keep the rig balanced.
Streamer fishing has been worth doing during cloudy stretches. Patterns like sparkle minnows, kreelex, and baby gongas have been getting attention in deeper runs and along structure. A shorter 5–6 foot leader of heavier fluorocarbon (1X or 0X) helps turn over those bigger flies.
Dry-fly chances are limited but still showing up on the warmer afternoons. BWOs and midges are appearing in small numbers, and a few trout have been rising in slower water. Carry a couple size 16–18 parachute or emerger patterns in case you find risers.
The Lower Madison is a solid late-season choice near Bozeman. Plan on a later start, stick with nymphs for steady action, and mix in streamers when the clouds move in. It’s a comfortable stretch to fish before winter fully settles in.
Helpful Articles (click to read):
- Lower Madison River Fall Fishing
- Bozeman Fly Fishing In November
Stream Flows
Flows
Recommended Flies
BWO Hi-Vis Parachute
Tan Clouser
Red Copper John
BWO Sparkle Dun
Copper Zonker
Gold Lightning Bug
Olive and Orange Zirdle
Rainbow Spanish 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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