Upper Madison River Fishing Report
Current Upper Madison River Fly Fishing Report
Updated 06/15/2026
Current Flow: ~ 1160 CFS @ Kirby Ranch near Cameron and 1500 CFS @ Ennis
The Upper Madison has been fishing pretty well overall, but depending on where you’re at, it can still feel either really good or a little hit and miss. We’re starting to see some salmonflies in areas, but it’s still pretty sporadic and kind of a right-place, right-time deal. With this warmer weather coming up, that should hopefully become a little more consistent, especially now that they’ve started releasing a little more water out of the dam.
With that bump in flows, some of the fish have definitely moved around a bit. Add in the boat traffic and a busier river, and you might have to spend a little more time finding those steady holding spots where fish feel comfortable. Dry fly fishing has been okay, nymphing has been okay, and streamer fishing has been okay — it’s kind of take your pick depending on the stretch you’re on and what the day is giving you.
If you’re seeing salmonflies where you’re fishing, don’t be afraid to throw the big dry or fish rubber legs underneath. There are still plenty of caddis around, PMDs are starting to show, and we’re seeing yellow sallies as well. Fish are definitely looking up in the right spots and at the right times. It might take a little spot-picking and a little luck, but the Upper has been fishing pretty consistently and should keep trending in a good direction as the bugs get going.
Nymphs: Perdigon #16–18, Wire Worm, FKA Prince #16-18, Perdibomb #16, Pat’s Rubberlegs #10–14, 20 Incher #12, Caddis Pupa #16, Jigged Rubberlegs #10-12, Blowtorch #14-16, Hot Bead Czech Nymphs #12-14, Flashback Pheasant Tail #14-16
Streamers: Sculpzilla (olive or black), Mini Dungeon, Mini Dolly Llama
Dries: Chubby Chernobyl #8-12, All Season Caddis #12-14, Yellow Sally #12-14, Foam Caddis #12-14, Blackout Stone, SupaFly Salmonfly, Flutterbug Salmonfly, PMD’s #14-16
Learn More About Fly Fishing the Upper Madison River
The Upper Madison River is one of the most iconic trout fisheries in the West and a cornerstone of fly fishing near Bozeman. Flowing out of Hebgen Lake, this tailwater provides cold, consistent flows and excellent water clarity throughout much of the year. Because of this, the Upper Madison remains a dependable option even during spring runoff when many nearby freestone rivers become off-color or difficult to fish.
Known for its healthy populations of wild rainbow and brown trout, the Upper Madison offers a mix of fast riffles, long runs, and classic pocket water that fish well across a variety of techniques. Whether you’re nymphing deeper seams, throwing dry flies during seasonal hatches, or covering water with streamers, the Upper Madison rewards anglers who stay mobile and adapt to changing conditions throughout the day.
Where to Fish the Upper Madison River
The most well-known stretches of the Upper Madison include the “50 Mile Riffle” between Lyon’s Bridge and Ennis, along with easy access points all along the river. These sections offer a wide range of water types and consistent fish populations, making them ideal for both wade anglers and float trips. The entire river provides excellent access and opportunities, with different sections fishing better depending on flows, weather, and time of year.
👉 Explore Our Complete Upper Madison River Fly Fishing Guide
Book a Guided Fly Fishing Trip on the Upper Madison River
A guided fly fishing trip on the Upper Madison River is one of the best ways to experience classic Montana trout fishing while maximizing your time on the water. Our Bozeman fly fishing guides spend countless days each season on the Upper Madison and understand how to adjust flies, techniques, and locations based on current river conditions.
Whether you’re a beginner looking to learn the fundamentals or an experienced angler wanting to dial in your approach, we tailor every trip to your goals. From covering miles of productive water on a float trip to breaking down key holding water while wading, the Upper Madison offers one of the most consistent and rewarding guided fishing experiences in Southwest Montana.