With repairs to Hebgen Dam outfall projected to be complete this year we expect conditions to revert during the 2014 fishing season to what the Madison is noted for; consistent water temperatures and predictable flows.   We also expect that with resumption of historical conditions the rainbow population resurgence will pick up momentum and make for an excellent fishing season.  If you are thinking of coming out, the early season (May-June) is particularly good for stone fly nymph fishing ahead of the salmon fly hatch with extraordinary caddis hatches around Mothers Day and Memorial Day into June.

The salmon fly hatch is typically mid to late June and into early July.  The Madison typically is clear and fishable during the 'hatch' where, depending on run-off conditions, other western Montana streams may be 'blown-out' and difficult to fish.

From mid July through August the Madison is an excellent wading and dry fly fishing river due to its' predictable flows, consistent hatches, and moderate depths.  Hoppers and terrestrials provide exciting wade/float fishing through September when large brown trout get more active and start to move up the Madison to spawn in October and streamers are the preferred tackle.

With four fly shops in or near Ennis and numerous fishing condition websites you can always get a heads up on what to expect, but be assured, whenever you can get here is the best time to fish.

And remember, days spent fly fishing are not subtracted from your alloted days, even more of a reason to devote more time to your passion, so fish on!!

Guy