Upper Madison River Fishing Report
Date: 12/17/2025
Posted by: Toby SwankCurrent Conditions
The Upper Madison River is a great choice right now with the warmer weather we’ve had. The river is clear and accessible, and anglers have been finding the best fishing from late morning into the afternoon.
Nymphing has been the main focus. Rubberlegs and small stonefly patterns have been good up front, with zebra midges, pheasant tails, and slim perdigons like the spanish bullet or duracell behind them. A 9-foot fluorocarbon leader of 3X or 4X has been working well. Making sure your flies are getting down has mattered more than changing patterns.
Fish are holding in the deeper water where the current stays consistent. Spending time in those sections has paid off more than moving around or fishing shallow stretches.
Streamer fishing is still worth trying during the warmer part of the day. Smaller sculpin-style patterns, mini dungeons, and slumpbusters have moved some fish when worked through deeper water. A shorter leader of 5–6 feet of heavier fluorocarbon (1X or 0X) helps keep things controlled.
Dry-fly activity has been limited. A few midges are around, but it’s been more of an occasional opportunity than something to plan around.
Additional Resources:
- Upper Madison River Fly Fishing In Winter
- Fly Fishing Bozeman In Winter
Stream Flows
Flows
Recommended Flies
Purple Blowtorch
Red Copper John
Black Zebra Midge
Gold Lightning Bug
Spanish Bullet Tan
Rainbow Warrior Jig
Purple Psycho Prince
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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