Upper Madison River Fishing Report
Date: 07/06/2026
Posted by: Toby SwankCurrent Conditions
The Upper Madison River is fishing very well and continues to be one of the most consistent rivers in Southwest Montana.
The recent rain freshened things up without hurting the fishing, and the river has settled back into a great summer pattern. Caddis are the primary hatch right now, with PMDs and yellow sallies still showing throughout the day. Fish are looking up regularly, especially during the afternoon and evening when bug activity is at its best.
Dry-dropper fishing has been the most productive way to cover water. A purple or royal chubby chernobyl with a spanish bullet, PMD-style perdigon, or pat's rubberlegs underneath has been a tough combination to beat. Fish are spread throughout the river, so covering water and making plenty of casts has been more productive than camping on one run.
Straight nymphing continues to fish well, particularly during the cooler mornings. Pat's rubberlegs paired with a smaller attractor nymph has been producing steady action, and anglers looking for bigger fish are still moving a few on olive or white streamers during the first and last couple hours of the day.
Additional Resources:
- The Best Bozeman Fly Fishing in July
Stream Flows
View stream flow graph on USGS
Recommended Flies
Chubby Chernobyl Pteronarcys
Salmonfly Supafly Stone
Brown Pat's Rubberleg
Purple Blowtorch
Brown/Black Pat's Rubberlegs
White Peanut Envy
Spanish Bullet Tan
Gold Lightning Bug
Upper Madison River Fishing
The Fins and Feathers "Upper Madison River Fishing Guide" features a comprehensive overview of the river stretches and seasonal highlights with Madison River fishing tips from our Bozeman fly fishing guide staff.
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