Upper Madison River Fishing Report
Date: 09/25/2026
Posted by: Toby SwankCurrent Conditions
The Upper Madison River has been challenging overall. There’s been more bug activity showing up in the afternoons, but that hasn’t translated into a lot of fish willing to move for dries. Low, clear water isn’t helping, and dropping down to 4X fluorocarbon has been making a difference.
Nymphing remains the most effective way to fish it. A pat’s rubberlegs with a size 18 black infernogon or another small attractor nymph has been a solid setup. Keep the rig light enough to fish cleanly through the shallower water.
Closer to Ennis, streamers have been getting the attention of a few better fish. Black and olive are worth throwing, but expect to cover some water between opportunities.
Additional Resources:
Stream Flows
View stream flow graph on USGS
Recommended Flies
Sweetgrass Hopper
Dave's Hopper
Tan Morrish Hopper
Chubby Chernobyl Pteronarcys
Brown/Black Pat's Rubberlegs
Purple Blowtorch
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.
Additional Madison River Fly Fishing Resources
Madison River Fly Fishing Trips
Post Date: 03/27/2025
Montana fly fishing trips on the upper Madison River with Fins and Feathers Guide Service are available year-round to anglers of all skill levels....
Learn MoreMontana River Shuttles
Post Date: 03/29/2025
River shuttle services are an integral part of the Montana fly fishing scene as floating these legendary western rivers is the standard way to fish and experience them. Be sure...
Learn MoreMontana Fly Fishing Trip Photo Galleries
Post Date: 03/29/2025
Get a glimpse into a day of guided fly fishing in Montana from the viewpoint of the guides and guests with Bozeman fly fishing outfitter, Fins and Feathers Guide Service...
Learn MoreUpper Madison Fly Fishing Area Map
Related Articles From The Montana Fly Fishing Blog
Category: Tips on Flyfishing Montana Rivers
The Best Madison River Fishing Sections
Post Date: 03/14/2024
Floating the "50 Mile Riffle" is the best way to experience the world-renowned Madison River fishing that attracts anglers from around the world. Here are our Bozeman fly fishing guides'...
Read Article
Category: Tips on Flyfishing Montana Rivers
The Ultimate Guide to Madison River Fishing
Post Date: 03/08/2025
Though many famous rivers flow through Southwest Montana, the Madison River holds a unique place in fly fishing lore and history. Its large and abundant trout draw fly anglers from...
Read Article
Category: Bozeman Fly Fishing Trip Planning
Early Season Trips for Experienced Anglers : Upper Madison River
Post Date: 09/25/2024
The Upper Madison River is a premier wild trout fishery in Montana that bursts to life as winter recedes and spring arrives. For experienced anglers, March 20th - April 1...
Read Article