Upper Madison River Montana: Complete Fly Fishing Guide
Your Guide to Fly Fishing Montana’s Upper Madison River
In this guide, we break down everything you need to know about fly fishing the Upper Madison River through the seasons — from cold early spring mornings to late summer hatches and crisp fall streamer days. You’ll find detailed insight on how the river changes month to month, what hatches to expect, and the best tactics to match each season. Whether you’re planning a guided trip or exploring on your own, this seasonal guide will help you understand how to fish the Upper Madison more effectively and make the most of Montana’s most iconic trout water.
Seasons on the Upper Madison
Fishing the Upper Madison in Spring (March – May)
Spring on the Upper Madison River offers some of the most rewarding early-season fishing in Montana. From March through May, the fast, boulder-strewn water between Hebgen Lake and Ennis Lake comes alive as trout feed aggressively after winter. Consistent Baetis (BWO) and Midge hatches provide steady dry-fly action on calm afternoons, while stonefly nymphs, Zebra Midges, and small mayfly patterns produce beneath the surface. As water temps rise, rainbows move upriver to spawn, and brown trout feed heavily in deeper runs. The stretch between Raynolds Pass and Lyons Bridge fishes exceptionally well for wade anglers this time of year, while float trips below Lyons Bridge provide excellent pre-runoff opportunities. With fewer crowds and active fish, spring is a prime window to experience the Upper Madison’s legendary fly fishing before summer hatches take over.
Tactics:
Focus on slower runs, deeper “buckets” behind boulders, seams along large rocks.
Nymphing is the bread-and-butter: use midges, baetis emergers, early caddis pupae, stonefly nymphs. Baetis hatches can bring up some fish on cloudy days in the slower side channels or slicks behind rocks.
Dry fly opportunities will come on warm afternoons when blue-winged olive (BWO) or midges emerge. Be on the lookout for rising fish in slick corners.
Fly recommendations:
Nymphs
Nymphing dominates most days in March, April, and early May, especially before runoff. Focus on heavier rigs that get down quickly in the Madison’s fast currents. Productive spring nymphs include:
Pat’s Rubber Legs (black, brown, coffee/black) – Size 6–10; imitates early stonefly nymphs.
Zebra Midge (red, black, olive) – Size 18–22; perfect for low, cold water.
Tungsten Pheasant Tail / Frenchie – Size 14–18; imitates Baetis and general mayfly nymphs.
Perdigon Nymphs (olive, brown, purple) – Size 16–18; cut through fast current and get deep fast.
Caddis Larvae (green or cream) – Size 14–16; key food source during late April and May.
Scuds and Sow Bugs (tan, grey) – Size 14–16; especially effective near Ennis Lake and slower edges.
Pro Tip: Use 4X–5X fluorocarbon tippet, with split shot or tungsten putty to adjust depth. Fish slow seams, inside edges, and the buckets behind large boulders.
Dry Flies
While most days start subsurface, there are plenty of windows for surface action when the weather settles.
Griffith’s Gnat – Size 18–22; a reliable midge cluster for calm mornings.
Parachute Adams – Size 18–20; imitates Blue-Winged Olives (BWOs) and transitional mayflies.
Sparkle Dun (BWO) – Size 18–20; deadly on cloudy afternoons during Baetis hatches.
CDC Midge Emerger – Size 20–22; perfect for sipping fish in slicks.
X-Caddis / Elk Hair Caddis – Size 14–16; match the first spring caddis that appear in late April through May.
Pro Tip: Look for rising fish in side channels and softer seams during overcast days
Streamers
Spring streamer fishing can produce some of the Upper Madison’s biggest trout before runoff.
Mini Dungeon (olive, black, natural) – Size 4–6; stripped or swung near structure.
Sculpzilla (olive, white, black) – Size 6–8; excellent in deeper pools.
Sparkle Minnow (gold or copper) – Size 6–8; great attractor pattern in slightly off-colored water.
Kreelex Minnow (gold/silver) – Size 6; flashy, perfect during pre-runoff stained flows.
Pro Tip: Use a short sink tip or Sinking Leader to get your fly down quickly. Late morning and overcast afternoons are prime times to move aggressive browns and rainbows.
Fishing the Upper Madison in Summer (June – August)
Summer on the Upper Madison River is the heart of Montana’s fly fishing season. From June through August, the river transforms into dry-fly paradise, starting with the legendary Salmonfly and Golden Stonefly hatches in late June and early July. Anglers can find explosive surface action as big trout crush large foam patterns tight to the banks. As the stonefly hatch fades, PMDs, Caddis, and Yellow Sallies take over, keeping the action consistent through mid-summer. By late July and August, terrestrials like hoppers, ants, and beetles become the go-to flies, especially on sunny afternoons with a light breeze. The best fishing often happens early and late in the day, with strong nymph and streamer action during midday lulls. With endless hatches, healthy trout, and breathtaking scenery, summer on the Upper Madison is what Montana fly fishing dreams are made of.
Key features:
Late June/early July: the famed salmonfly and golden stonefly hatches in the Upper Madison.
After the stonefly window, fishing often shifts to terrestrials (hoppers, ants, beetles) on warm summer days.
With warmer water temperatures later in the summer, morning and evening sessions become prime time.
Nymphing and streamer tactics are great options, especially looking for larger browns.
Fly recommendations:
Dry Flies
The Upper Madison’s legendary summer hatches bring dry-fly anglers from all over the world. Timing and variety are key, as the bugs change quickly throughout the season.
Salmonflies (Pteronarcys californica) – Size 4–6; hatch peaks late June into early July, starting near ennis lake moving upstream
Golden Stoneflies – Size 8–10; overlap with the Salmonfly hatch and extend into mid-July.
PMDs (Pale Morning Duns) – Size 14–18; strong hatches on sunny mornings through mid-July.
Caddis (tan, olive, black) – Size 14–16; thick evening hatches, especially near Lyons Bridge and Palisades.
Terrestrials (Hoppers, Ants, Beetles) – Size 8–14; dominate in late July and August when grasshoppers become active in the Madison Valley. Some of out favorites are the Thunder Thighs Hopper and the Henneberry Hopper
Attractor Dries – Chubby Chernobyl (#8–12), Royal Wulff (#10–14), and Stimulator (#10-16) are great searching patterns all summer long.
Pro tip: Fish the banks during early morning and evening when trout are most active, especially with foam or hopper patterns in August. Midday, focus on riffle corners or shaded seams where fish rest and ambush drifting bugs.
Nymphs
Even during the height of dry-fly season, nymphing remains a reliable method—especially in the fast water between hatches or during bright afternoons.
Pat’s Rubber Legs (brown, black) – Size 6–10; imitates stonefly nymphs and anchors your rig.
Tungsten Pheasant Tail / Frenchie / Hare’s Ear – Size 14–18; great for PMD and general mayfly imitations.
Caddis Pupa (tan, olive) – Size 14–16; fish in the late afternoons before caddis start to hatch.
Lightning Bug / Perdigon Nymph (silver, olive, purple) – Size 14–18; ideal for clear, fast current.
Pro Tip: Use 3X–4X tippet for stonefly rigs and 5X for smaller nymphs. The riffle-drop seams and deep boulder pockets are especially productive for nymphing in midsummer.
Streamers
While summer isn’t peak streamer season, overcast days or early mornings can produce aggressive strikes from larger browns.
Mini Dungeon (olive, black,) – Size 4–6; stripped along deeper banks or undercut edges.
Sculpzilla / Sparkle Minnow (olive, black) – Size 6–8; effective during cloudy stretches.
Sparkle Minnow (Scuplin, JJ’s)– Size 6–8; Flashy bug to get some fish to chase
Pro Tip: Try fishing streamers early in the day before the sun hits the water or during afternoon storms that add some color.
From the stonefly explosion of June to the hopper madness of August, summer on the Upper Madison River is pure dry-fly bliss. Every riffle, seam, and grassy bank holds opportunity—and with the right fly selection, you’ll see why this river defines Montana fly fishing.
Fishing the Upper Madison in Fall (September – October)
Fall on the Upper Madison River is one of the most magical times to fish in Montana. From September through October, cooler temperatures, brilliant colors, and aggressive trout make this season a favorite among locals and guides alike. As brown trout begin staging for the spawn, streamer fishing becomes the go-to tactic—throwing patterns like Mini Dungeons, Kreelex Minnows, and Sparkle Minnows tight to banks and boulders. The river also sees strong Baetis (BWO) and Midge hatches on overcast days, offering excellent dry-fly opportunities in softer seams and side channels. Nymphing remains productive with small mayfly and stonefly patterns, can produce some of the heaviest trout of the season. Crisp mornings, golden cottonwoods, and the chance at a trophy brown make fall on the Upper Madison an unforgettable time to be on the water.
Key points:
Water temps cool, fish become more aggressive preparing for winter.
Baetis and midge hatches resume on cooler days, offering dry-fly opportunities.
Streamer fishing can be excellent; big browns take more aggressive methods and territory becomes more open.
Fewer crowds, especially as the season winds down.
Fly recommendations:
Nymphs
Nymphing remains consistently productive throughout fall, especially during midday when trout feed in riffles and deeper runs.
Pat’s Rubber Legs (coffee, black, brown) – Size 8–12; imitates stonefly nymphs and triggers aggressive strikes.
Tungsten Pheasant Tail / Frenchie / Perdigon – Size 14–18; great for Baetis and small mayfly imitations.
Rainbow Czech / Sow Bug / Scud – Size 14–16; productive down the whole river especially in slower pockets.
Egg Patterns (peach, apricot, orange) – Size 10–14; effective in late September and October as browns start spawning.
Soft Hackle Hare’s Ear or Partridge & Orange – Size 14–16; deadly when swung through tailouts during afternoon hatches.
Pro Tip: Fish nymph rigs slow and deep, with split shot and 4X–5X fluorocarbon. Focus on seams, deeper riffle drops, and boulder pockets
Dry Flies
While fall is known for streamer fishing, don’t overlook the late-season hatches. Cloudy days bring excellent Blue-Winged Olive (BWO) and Midge activity, especially in slower side channels.
Parachute Adams (BWO) – Size 18–20; a must-have for fall dry-fly days.
Sparkle Dun/Extended Body BWO/ CDC BWO Emerger – Size 18–20; perfect for picky fish sipping emergers.
Griffith’s Gnat / Cluster Midge – Size 18–20; works on calm mornings or slicks near the banks.
Hi-Vis Baetis Cripple – Size 18–20; great for low-light visibility on overcast days.
October Caddis – Size 10-12; sporadic hatches through October.
Pro Tip: Look for risers in softer seams and tailouts
Streamers
Fall and streamers go hand-in-hand on the Upper Madison. As brown trout prepare to spawn, they become territorial and aggressive toward larger prey patterns. Early mornings, cloudy days, and the hours before dark are prime.
Mini Dungeon (olive, tan, black) – Size 4–6; the classic Madison fall streamer for hunting trophy browns.
Sculpzilla (olive, black) – Size 6–8; imitates sculpins and juvenile trout in rocky structure.
Sparkle Minnow (copper, gold, silver) – Size 6–8; great for slightly stained or sunny conditions.
Kreelex Minnow (gold/silver) – Size 6–8; ideal for bright, clear days with aggressive fish.
Barely Legal (olive/white, tan/yellow) – Size 4–6; excellent for two-tone motion and flash.
Dolly Llamma (olive/white) - Size 6; go to pattern for big browns
Pro Tip: Use a short sink-tip or sinking leader with fluorocarbon tippet (2X–3X). Strip fast across boulder edges, or swing the streamer on a tight line through deeper runs. Browns often hit hard on the pause, so stay tight and ready.
The Upper Madison in fall is hard to beat—big, beautiful browns chasing streamers, steady mayfly hatches, and crisp mountain air. It’s a season of color, solitude, and heavy fish that make every cast count.
Fishing the Upper Madison in Winter (Nov-Feb)
Winter on the Upper Madison River offers solitude, stunning scenery, and surprisingly decent fishing for anglers willing to brave the cold. From November through February, the river remains one of Montana’s few year-round fisheries, with ice-free water below Hebgen and Quake Lakes providing stable flows and active trout. The slower, deeper runs between Raynolds Pass and Lyons Bridge are winter hot spots where rainbows and browns stack up to conserve energy. Productive flies include Zebra Midges, small Pat’s Rubber Legs, scuds, and sow bugs, often fished slow and deep under an indicator or Euro-nymph setup. On warmer afternoons, small midge or BWO emergers can bring a few fish to the surface. Clear water and low angling pressure make winter a great time to hone your drift and presentation skills. For experienced anglers seeking quiet and quality, the Upper Madison in winter is pure Montana magic.
Tactics:
Focus on slower, deeper runs, sheltered seams, cut-banks.
Use subtle nymphing methods: micro midges, small sow bugs, scuds.
Mid day is the best once time, once the sun warms the water slightly.
Fly recommendations:
Nymphs
Subsurface fishing dominates the winter season, and small, dark patterns are key. Trout conserve energy in deeper runs and softer seams, so focus on slower drifts and subtle presentations.
Zebra Midge (black, red, olive) – Size 16–20; a winter staple that imitates the river’s constant midge activity.
Pat’s Rubber Legs (black, coffee, brown) – Size 10-14; imitates small stonefly nymphs and adds movement and weight as a lead fly.
Tungsten Pheasant Tail / Frenchie / Perdigon – Size 16–20; mimics mayfly nymphs, especially in mild weather windows.
Sow Bug / Scud (tan, olive, grey) – Size 14–16; highly effective in slower water
WD-40 or RS2 (grey, olive) – Size 18–22; imitates emerging midges and small Baetis in warm spells.
Pro Tip: Run double-nymph rigs under a small indicator with 5X–6X fluorocarbon. Use just enough weight to tick bottom occasionally without hanging up constantly. The best bite typically happens between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., when the water warms slightly.
Dry Flies
Winter dry-fly fishing on the Upper Madison is subtle but rewarding on calm, sunny days. Look for pods of trout rising in back eddies or slow seams during midday midge hatches.
Griffith’s Gnat / Midge Cluster – Size 18–22; perfect for surface-feeding trout during calm conditions.
CDC Midge Emerger – Size 18–22; deadly pattern for slow, sipping fish.
Parachute Adams (BWO) – Size 18–22; good general-purpose pattern for mid-winter mayfly or midge hatches.
Pro Tip: Use long leaders and fine tippet (5X-6X) to achieve natural drifts in low, clear winter water.
Streamers
Streamer fishing can still produce in winter, especially on overcast days or when flows rise slightly. Focus on slower retrieves and smaller patterns that imitate sculpins and leeches.
Mini Dungeon (olive, tan, black) – Size 6–8; stripped slowly through deeper pools and tailouts.
Sculpzilla (olive, white) – Size 6–8; effective in mid-depth current and along rocky bottoms.
Thin Mint or Woolly Bugger (black, olive) – Size 8–10; classic low-water streamer for winter conditions.
Kreelex Minnow (copper/gold) – Size 8–10; use sparingly in slightly stained water for flash and movement.
Pro Tip: Fish streamers with short sink-tips or intermediate lines, keeping the retrieve slow and deliberate. Trout are less likely to chase aggressively in cold water, so focus on swing presentations and deeper pockets.
The Upper Madison River in winter offers solitude, beauty, and a true test of skill. Every trout earned this time of year feels special, and with the right setup and a little patience, you’ll find steady action even when the banks are frozen and the snow is falling.
Favorite Places to Fish on the Upper Madison River
The Upper Madison River is one of the most diverse and accessible trout fisheries in Montana, offering countless miles of prime water for both wade and float anglers. Flowing from Hebgen Lake to Ennis Lake, this 50-mile stretch of legendary trout water is packed with riffles, runs, and deep seams that hold healthy populations of wild brown and rainbow trout. Each section of the Upper Madison fishes a little differently throughout the year, and understanding the river’s layout can help you make the most of your time on the water.
Hebgen Lake to Quake Lake – “Between the Lakes”
This short section between Hebgen Dam and Quake Lake offers cold, clear tailwater flows ideal for early-season wade fishing. The water here is filled with riffles, undercut banks, and deep pockets that demand precise drifts and delicate presentations. It’s a fantastic stretch in spring and fall, when midges, Baetis, and small nymphs dominate. The trout here are strong and selective, often holding tight to structure or slower inside seams. Fish Zebra Midges, small Pheasant Tails, Pat’s Rubber Legs, and BWO emergers under indicators or in tandem rigs.
Quake Lake to Lyons Bridge – Upper Walk-Wade Section
This is the heart of the Upper Madison and one of the most famous walk-wade stretches in the world. Access points like Raynolds Pass Bridge and Three Dollar Bridge provide easy entry to miles of productive riffles, side channels, and boulder-filled runs. Known for its steady hatches and wild trout numbers, this section fishes exceptionally well from spring through late fall. Early season nymphing with stonefly and mayfly patterns transitions into incredible dry-fly fishing during the Salmonfly and Golden Stonefly hatches in June and early July. Later in the season, hoppers, ants, and beetles take over along grassy banks, while fall brings streamer action for big browns staging below Quake Lake.
Lyons Bridge to McAtee Bridge – Classic Float Water
From Lyons Bridge downstream, the river opens up and becomes ideal for float fishing, though wade anglers still find plenty of productive spots along side channels and island seams. This stretch, often called the “fifty-mile riffle,” features long, steady runs with uniform current and consistent fish-holding structure. The Salmonfly hatch usually peaks here around late June, followed by PMDs, caddis, and terrestrials through summer. Fish Chubby Chernobyls, X-Caddis, and Lightning Bugs in summer, and switch to streamers or egg patterns in the fall. With classic Madison current and excellent public access, this is one of the most enjoyable floats in Montana.
McAtee Bridge to Varney Bridge – Productive and Scenic
This stretch combines beautiful Madison Valley scenery with excellent fishing. It’s a mix of riffles, deep runs, and long flat runs that fish well from both boat and foot. Early mornings and evenings are great for dry-dropper rigs with hoppers and smaller beadhead nymphs. Midday nymphing is consistent year-round with Pat’s Rubber Legs, Tungsten Pheasant Tails, and Perdigons. Fall brings strong streamer fishing, especially around deeper bends and undercut banks.
Varney Bridge to Ennis Lake – Lower Upper Madison
The final stretch of the Upper Madison is defined by braided side channels, deeper runs between riffle sections, and lower walk-wade section from Ennis toward Ennis Lake (this section can be floated but from the boat is not allowed). This section is excellent for late-season streamer fishing, fall browns, and consistent nymphing year round. Hopper fishing in this section is blast with a mix of braided channels and broad river and long runs for constant action on the dry fly. Varney to Ennis is a very popular float in the summer and is a great option for a full day float. The water here stays productive well into winter. Nymphing, Dries and Streamers all shine here.
Pro Tips for Fishing the Upper Madison
Cover water: The Madison’s trout are strong and spread out—keep moving until you find active fish.
Adjust depth often: Especially in fast water, small changes in weight or leader length make a big difference.
Match the hatch: From Baetis and caddis in spring to Salmonflies, PMDs, and hoppers in summer, staying in tune with the hatch will put more fish in the net.
Wade smart: The Madison’s slick boulders and powerful current demand good traction and careful footing.
Mix up your tactics: Switch between nymphing, dries, and streamers depending on water temp, clarity, and fish activity.
Final Thoughts: The Upper Madison River
Few rivers capture the spirit of Montana fly fishing like the Upper Madison River. From the icy flows of early spring to the bright, hopper-filled days of summer and the vivid colors of fall, this stretch delivers year-round action for anglers who love wild trout and wild country. Spring brings hungry rainbows and steady nymphing; summer offers explosive dry-fly fishing during the Salmonfly and caddis hatches; fall is all about streamers and big browns moving before the spawn; and even in winter, the water below Hebgen and Quake Lakes stays alive with midges and patient fish. Each season tells a different story, and every trip on the Upper Madison teaches something new — about the fish, the river, and the angler. Whether you’re floating or wading the Upper Madison always delivers that perfect mix of challenge, beauty, and reward that defines fly fishing in Montana.
Book Your Madison River Fly Fishing Trip
Ready to experience one of Montana’s most legendary trout rivers firsthand? Booking a guided Madison River fly fishing trip with Rising Trout Fly Fishing is the best way to make the most of your time on the water.
We offer full-day and half day guided trips on both the Upper Madison and Lower Madison, customized to your skill level and goals.From spring caddis hatches to the thunder of summer salmonflies, the Madison River delivers a world-class experience in every season. Whether you’re a first-time angler or a seasoned trout hunter, our guides will get you into fish and share the knowledge to help you grow as an angler.
Book your trip today, and let Rising Trout Fly Fishing show you why the Madison is truly one of Montana’s most iconic fly fishing rivers.
Plan Your Stay
Need a place to stay? Check out our Lodging Partners Page for handpicked options in Bozeman and Ennis ranging from cozy riverside cabins to modern downtown hotels. Many of our lodging partners offer exclusive rates for Rising Trout Fly Fishing guests.
