Madison River Fly Fishing Guide

Fly fishing guide for the Madison River: The Madison River is a classic Montana trout destination, extending from high-elevation water near West Yellowstone through broad valley and tailwater reaches.

Common species: Rainbow trout, Brown trout, Mountain whitefish

Live Madison River flow charts

Gauge readings are public monitoring data and should be combined with local regulations, weather, release schedules, and a visual check of safe wading conditions. Readings typically refresh every 15 minutes.

• Madison River Near Norris Mt — USGS site 06041500 (official station data)
• Madison River Bl Ennis Lake Nr Mcallister Mt — USGS site 06041000 (official station data)
• Madison River Near Cameron Mt — USGS site 06040000 (official station data)
• Madison River At Ennis, Mt — USGS site 06040050 (official station data)
• Madison River At Kirby Ranch Nr Cameron Mt — USGS site 06038800 (official station data)
• Madison River Bl Hebgen Lake Nr Grayling Mt — USGS site 06038500 (official station data)

Map coverage and access planning

27 named stream reaches are indexed for this guide in the Montana map dataset.

Open the Madison River stream map · View campgrounds near the river · Read the Montana hatch chart

Fishing approach

• Seven indexed gauges from Hebgen Lake to Ennis
• Distinct upper, valley, and lower river personalities
• Strong mayfly, caddis, and terrestrial seasons

Choose the reach first

A gauge near West Yellowstone, Cameron, or Ennis can describe a very different fishing day. Pick the reach, then use its station trend and temperature rather than relying on a single river-wide number.

Keep seasonal staples ready

PMD and caddis patterns are useful in warmer months, while streamers and stonefly nymphs help when the river has more color or depth. Terrestrials become important along grassy banks.

Fly patterns to start with

PMD Sparkle Dun, Elk Hair Caddis, Golden Stone, Chubby Chernobyl

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks

Flow data can be delayed or unavailable. Verify current regulations, access permissions, weather, and safe conditions with the relevant agency before fishing.