Thank you for checking out our most recent upper Madison River fishing report. It is our goal to keep this page updated on a regular basis to serve as a resource for those of you planning your visit to Montana. Please refer to the information below consisting of fishing techniques, fly patterns, Madison River flows and the weather in Ennis, Montana. We encourage you to give us a call for more information not detailed in our fishing report.
The Upper Madison is settling into its fall rhythm. Fishing has improved from some of the tougher conditions earlier this month, but presentation still matters. Mornings have been fairly slow, with fishing generally improving once the river warms up around 10:00 or 11:00. There isn't much reason to rush out at daylight right now. Small stonefly nymphs with Baetis droppers remain one of the most dependable setups. Streamers are becoming increasingly worthwhile around deeper riffles, undercut banks, overhanging trees and shaded water. Dry fly fishing is more situational, but ants and Baetis are still producing when fish begin looking up. This is a good time of year to cover water and pay attention to where you're finding fish. The river is clear, the trout have seen plenty of flies, and small adjustments to depth, tippet and presentation can make a big difference.
We have a warm stretch ahead for late September. Daytime temperatures around Ennis will climb through the 70s and into the low 80s later this week before noticeably cooler weather arrives over the weekend. Nights remain cool, which is keeping river temperatures in good shape. Bright, warm afternoons may make fishing a little more technical, while the transition toward cooler and potentially cloudier weather should improve both Baetis activity and streamer fishing.
The Upper Madison continues to run relatively low and very clear. Flows around Kirby are currently in the mid-800 CFS range, with morning water temperatures generally starting in the low 50s. These are good trout temperatures, but the lower, clear water gives fish plenty of opportunity to inspect your flies. Longer leaders, clean drifts and lighter tippet are increasingly important, particularly in slower water.
Blue Winged Olives are becoming increasingly important as we move deeper into September. Baetis nymphs are producing consistently, with occasional dry fly opportunities developing when conditions line up. Cloud cover will improve your chances, particularly in slicks, softer seams and slower edges. Caddis are still around but are becoming less important. Terrestrials haven't completely disappeared either. Ants remain worthwhile, and a small hopper or Chubby can still move a fish during a warm afternoon. That said, hopper season is winding down quickly and fish are considerably more hesitant toward large foam than they were a few weeks ago.
There isn't much reason to be on the river at first light right now. Let things warm up and expect more consistent fishing to begin around 10:00 or 11:00. A small stonefly with a #16–18 Baetis nymph or emerger behind it remains one of the most dependable setups. Keep the rig relatively light and pay close attention to depth. With the river this clear, simply adding more weight isn't always the answer. Streamer fishing deserves more attention now. Work banks, boulder pockets, deeper riffles and shaded structure with olive, black and natural sculpin patterns. Cloudy periods should make this increasingly productive as we move farther into fall. For dry flies, watch the water rather than forcing it. Small ants remain a legitimate prospecting fly, while Baetis dries and emergers are the better choice once you actually see fish rising.
To simplify things, you can expect Madison River trout to eat just about every classic trout pattern ever tied depending on the time of year. Known for prolific stonefly, caddis, mayfly and midge hatches, the trout of the Madison aren't as picky as other rivers. If you get the size and color right, chances are they'll eat it so long as you have the correct presentation. Certainly there are some local secrets, but if you stock up on the basics you should be just fine!
A 5 or 6 WT fly rod is ideal for most fly fishing situations on the Madison River. The Madison Valley can be a breezy place and with such a wide river it can help to have a little extra power in your cast. We tend to prefer fast action fly rods for this reason. Your fly line is arguably more important than your fly rod though. Half size heavy weight forward floating lines are the ideal compliment to a modern fast action rod.
A slow action 3-5 WT certainly has its time and place on this river, especially during the caddis, midge and BWO hatches. 7 WT rods are commonly fished with short sink-tip fly lines and big streamers. They also come in handy during the salmonfly hatch when you're casting a 3" long foam body dry fly.
Breathable waders and sturdy boots are often a necessity during the spring and fall months. Your best soles for traction are felt with carbide tipped studs. Be aware that many Madison River fly fishing guides do not allow studs in their boats. It is rare that waders are required between June 15-September 15. During these months, some lightweight boots or water shoes/sandals are preferred.
Above all else, quality clothing and accessories for all types of weather are essential for staying comfortable during the day. Montana can throw just about any type of weather your way so be prepared with a well thought out layering system to handle the often cold mornings and warm afternoons.
Join us October 6-10 at a discounted rate for 4 nights & 3 days of guided streamer fishing. We'll fish a variety of water in hopes of landing a trophy. Expect to learn from the best and make a lot of casts!
These openings are rare and don't last long, so be quick to claim them. Just give us a call!
