Upper Madison River Fishing Report
Date: 11/03/2025
Posted by: Toby SwankCurrent Conditions
The Upper Madison River near Ennis is in great condition for late October. Clear water and mild weather have made for steady fishing, and trout are holding in deeper water throughout most of the day.
Nymphing has been the most consistent tactic. Rubberlegs, worms, and small attractor nymphs are reliable lead patterns, with zebra midges, perdigons, or frenchies trailing behind. Adjusting weight and keeping drifts tight to structure has helped produce consistent results.
Streamer fishing has improved as fall progresses. Sparkle minnows, mini dungeons, and sculpzillas in olive, tan, or black are good options right now, especially when skies are overcast or during early and late light. A slower retrieve has been drawing more strikes.
Blue-winged olives and midges are showing more regularly, with fish rising during calm, cloudy periods. Carry a few small parachute or emerger patterns in the #18–20 range to take advantage of those short surface windows.
The Upper Madison is fishing steady and remains a solid late-season choice. Nymphs are producing consistent action, streamers are turning fish when the light drops, and light hatch activity is adding variety as fall conditions settle in across the valley.
Additional Resources:
- Upper Madison River Fly Fishing In Fall
- Fly Fishing Bozeman in October
Stream Flows
Flows
Recommended Flies
Sparkle Minnow
Spanish Bullet Tan
Black Zebra Midge
Olive Mini Peanut Envy
Gold Lightning Bug
Rainbow Warrior Jig
Natrual Sculpzilla
Tan and Yellow Double Gonga
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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