Upper Madison River Fishing Report
Date: 07/24/2025
Posted by: Toby SwankCurrent Conditions
The Upper Madison River is fishing well right now, cool water, steady flows, and fish holding in all the right spots. From the walk-wade stretches through the float water, we have been seeing consistent action.
Mornings and mid-day have both been productive. Dry-dropper rigs are the go-to. A buoyant foam bug on top with a small beadhead nymph a couple feet below. Caddis and PMDs are still making appearances early, and trout are looking up in the soft seams and riffles.
As the sun gets higher, fish are sliding into deeper buckets and along the inside bends. A two-fly nymph rig fished tight to structure has been getting it done, infernogns, rubberlegs, and most small flashy beadhead tungesten jigs have been effective.
Hopper season is getting going. We're seeing more fish take big dries by late morning, especially in the lower stretches. Ants and beetles are in play too, especially along grassy banks and foam lines.
Streamer fishing has picked up with cloud cover or early light, less flashy patterns have been getting the attention of some nice fish. mini dungeons, gongas, and peanut envys in olive, yellow, and black.
The river’s in classic summer shape, stable, clear, and full of life. Fish are eating, bugs are moving, and there’s no reason not to get out there.
Additional Resources:
- Upper Madison River Fishing in July
- A Guide To Bozeman Fly Fishing in July
Stream Flows
Flows
Recommended Flies
Giant Orange Rogue Foam Stone
Chubby Chernobyl Pteronarcys
Black Pat's Rubberleg
Orange Morningwood Hopper
Frenchie
Jig Frenchie
Golden Morrish Hopper
Golden Thunder Thigh Hopper
Golden Super Stone
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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