Upper Madison River Fishing Report

Upper Madison River Fishing Report

8/30/2026

Walk Wade Stretch (Between the Lakes, Upriver of Lyon's Bridge, Downriver of Ennis):

Right now, nymphing is going to be your best bet for consistent numbers. Worms, Rubber Legs, Lightning Bugs, and smaller mayfly and caddis patterns are all producing. Madison fish are getting more selective as the season progresses, so don't be afraid to change flies throughout the day if things slow down.

Hopper fishing is also in full swing, and a hopper-dropper setup is a great way to cover water while taking advantage of the late-summer activity.

Float Stretch(Downriver of Lyon's Bridge to Ennis):

The float stretch is fishing similarly, with nymphing and streamers being the most consistent ways to find fish. There are still plenty of PMD's, Caddis, and terrestrials around, with Hoppers as an increasingly reliable option. Look for fish along grassy banks, and don't be afraid to fish the hopper by itself or with a small nymph underneath.

Streamers, especially early in the morning and during periods of lower bug activity. Sculpins, baitfish patterns, and smaller streamers are moving fish. Play with color and profile throughout the day, and don't be afraid to dead drift a streamer under an indicator.

Dries: Chubby Chernobyl (Royal, Purple, Royal Tan, Golden) #10-12, Morrish Hopper #10-12, Water Walker (Yellow) #10-12, Parachute Adams #16-18, PMD #16, Elk Hair Caddis (Tan) #14-18, Cornfed (Tan or Yellow) #14-18.

Nymphs:  San Juan Worm #12-16, Pat's Rubber Legs #10-14, Lightning Bugs #16-18, Zebra Jig (Purple, Rusty Brown, Red) #16-20, #16-20, Olive or Pearl Perdigon #16-18, Yellow Hotspot Perdigon #16-18, small Pheasant Tails and Hare's Ears #16-18.

Streamers: Mini Dungeons, Barely Legals, Sparkle Minnows, Zonkers, and smaller Sculpin patterns will move fish for you. Start with smaller profiles and adjust throughout the day. Play with color as well — dark vs. light, natural vs. flashy. Slow it down when the fish aren't willing to chase.

New to the Madison?  We have guides with 40 plus years of experience fishing the Madison ready to share their knowledge with you. We offer full-day float and walk-wade trips on the Madison River. Don’t need a guide? We have the flies and info to help you be successful on a DIY mission. 

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