Upper Madison River Fishing Report
Date: 11/06/2026
Posted by: Toby SwankCurrent Conditions
The Upper Madison River has been fishing really well. Nymphing has been the most effective, with Pat's rubberlegs, Juju baetis, and zebra midges all good options. A larger stonefly nymph followed by a smaller baetis or midge is a good setup. Fish have been grouping up in certain areas, so covering water until anglers locate fish is worthwhile.
Streamer fishing has also been good, particularly for larger brown trout. Sparkle minnows, olive sculpin patterns, and smaller articulated streamers are worth fishing through the deeper runs. Blue-winged olives are still coming off on cloudy afternoons, and fish have been rising in the slower water. Small BWO patterns in sizes 16-18 are worth carrying.
Additional Resources:
- Fly Fishing Bozeman in November
Stream Flows
View stream flow graph on USGS
Recommended Flies
Dark Olive Spanish Perdigon
Brown/Black Pat's Rubberlegs
Black and Red Spanish Perdigon
White Circus Peanut
Spanish Bullet Tan
Gold Lightning Bug
Olive Mini Dungeon
Purple Blowtorch
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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