Upper Madison River Fishing Report
Date: 01/26/2026
Posted by: Toby SwankCurrent Conditions
The Upper Madison River remains fishable right now and continues to offer good opportunities near Ennis. Most sections are open, access has been manageable, and fishing has been best from late morning into the afternoon. Wind has been the main thing to plan around, but calmer stretches of the day have provided the best conditions.
Nymphing has been the most dependable way to catch fish. Stonefly-style nymphs and attractor patterns have worked well as lead flies, followed by smaller nymphs like spanish bullet perdigons, pheasant tails, zebra midges, and frenchies. A 9-foot fluorocarbon leader of 3X or 4X has been a solid setup for fishing enough weight and keeping rigs simple.
Fish have been holding in deeper, slower sections of the river. Taking the time to work those areas thoroughly has been more effective than trying to cover a lot of water. Faster water has not produced as consistently right now.
Streamer fishing has been worth trying at times during the afternoon, though it has been less consistent than nymphing. Smaller streamer patterns have moved some fish when conditions line up. A shorter leader of 5–6 feet of heavier fluorocarbon helps keep streamer setups manageable.
Dry fly activity has been limited. Midges are present, but surface activity has been brief and easy to miss.
Overall, the Upper Madison River is still a solid option. A later start, simple nymph rigs, and planning around the wind have been the best way to approach the river right now.
Additional Resources:
- Upper Madison River Fly Fishing In Winter
- Fly Fishing Bozeman In Winter
Stream Flows
Flows
Recommended Flies
Spanish Bullet Tan
Gray Sprout Midge
Rainbow Warrior Jig
Black Zebra Midge
Gold Lightning Bug
Parachute Adams
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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