Lower Madison River Fishing Report
Date: 12/17/2025
Posted by: Toby SwankCurrent Conditions
The Lower Madison River has been solid this week and continues to be one of the more dependable rivers around Bozeman right now. Recent mild weather has kept the river open and clear, and fishing has been best from late morning into the afternoon.
Nymphing has been the most consistent way to catch fish. Zirdles, small crayfish patterns, worms, zebra midges, and slim perdigons have all been working when fished deep. A 9-foot fluorocarbon leader of 3X or 4X is a solid setup. Making sure your flies are getting down has been more important than changing patterns.
Fish have been holding in the deeper water where the current stays even. Spending time in those sections has produced better results than moving around or fishing shallow water, which hasn’t offered much lately.
Streamer fishing has been worth mixing in during cloudy periods. Smaller sculpin and baitfish-style patterns have moved some fish, though it’s not something to rely on every day. A shorter leader of 5–6 feet of heavier fluorocarbon helps manage those flies.
Dry-fly fishing has been limited. Midges are around at times, but rising fish have been few and far between.
Overall, the Lower Madison River remains a good winter option. Focus on the warmest part of the day, fish deeper water, and keep things simple for the most consistent results.
Helpful Articles (click to read):
- Lower Madison River Fly Fishing In Winter
- Fly Fishing Bozeman In Winter
Stream Flows
Flows
Recommended Flies
Copper Zonker
Orange Psycho Prince Jig
Tan Clouser
Rainbow Spanish Bullet
Gold Lightning Bug
Red Copper John
King Prince
Pheasant Tail
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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