Lower Madison River Fishing Report

Lower Madison River Fishing Report

8/30/2026

The Lower Madison is fishing alright right now, but with the warmer temperatures, getting out early is definitely going to be your best bet. We’re expecting some cooler weather and possibly some precipitation this weekend, which could help bring water temperatures down a bit and make the canyon section worth a look.

The hoot owl restriction is currently in effect from the Northwestern Energy footbridge down to the Jefferson, meaning no fishing from 2 p.m. to midnight. Fishing is also closed from Ennis Dam to the footbridge, so be sure you know where you are before heading out.

Ants, hoppers, and caddis are all producing right now, with plenty of fish willing to look up.

Nymphing has been steady, with a Little Yellow Sally, caddis, or Pheasant Tail all worth trying. Focus on quicker water and adjust your depth throughout the day.

Dries: Parachute Adams (Gray, Copper) #16-18, PMD DOA #16, Elk Hair Caddis (Tan) #14-18, Cornfed (Tan or Yellow) #14-18

Nymphs: Zebra Jig Thin (Purple, Rusty Brown, Red) $3 Dip(Black, Red, Copper) #16-20, Olive or Pearl Perdigon #16-18, Yellow Hotspot Perdigon #16-18, Lightning Bugs #16-20, Zirdles #10-14.

Streamers: Sex Dungeons, Barely Legals, Copper Zonkers, Sheila's Sculpin, Silk Kitty, Mini Kill Whitey, Li'l Kims have been productive.  Play with color and profile every day. Skinny vs. big heads, dark vs. light, etc.

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Thanks for checking out our Madison River Fishing Report brought to you from Big Sky, MT.