Madison River
OptimalMontana
Current Conditions
The Madison River is running at 1,160 CFS — ideal conditions. Expect clear water and excellent dry fly opportunities.
Last updated: Mar 30, 2026, 5:00 PM from USGS gauge 06041000 (Madison River near West Yellowstone)
7-Day Flow Trend
Flow thresholds: Optimal 800–1200 CFS | Fishable to 2500 CFS | Marginal to 4000 CFS
Water Temperature
Water temperature is cool — ideal for trout activity. Fish will be feeding actively throughout the day.
About the Madison River
The Madison is one of America's most iconic trout rivers, flowing 183 miles from the confluence of the Firehole and Gibbon rivers in Yellowstone to Three Forks. The upper Madison between Quake Lake and Ennis is world-class dry fly water, while the lower river below Beartrap Canyon offers outstanding float fishing.
Hatch Chart
| Insect | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Salmon Fly Chubby Chernobyl | ||||||||||||
Golden Stonefly Yellow Sally | ||||||||||||
Caddis Elk Hair Caddis #14-16 | ||||||||||||
Pale Morning Dun PMD Sparkle Dun #16 | ||||||||||||
Blue-Winged Olive BWO Parachute #18-20 | ||||||||||||
Trico Trico Spinner #20-22 | ||||||||||||
Hopper Dave's Hopper #8 |
Active Hatches — March
Patterns: BWO Parachute #18-20, RS2 #20, Sparkle Dun #18
River Sections
Quake Lake to Lyons Bridge
wade access1,160 CFS
Upper Madison through the canyon — fast pocket water with large rainbows and browns. Wade fishing only.
Lyons Bridge to Ennis
wade/float accessClassic riffle-run-pool water. The heart of the Madison for dry fly fishing. Excellent wading with good float access.
Ennis to Beartrap Canyon
wade/float accessSlower water above Ennis Lake transitioning to the dramatic Beartrap wilderness canyon. Limited access in the canyon.
Beartrap to Three Forks
float access590 CFS
Lower Madison below the canyon. Excellent float fishing with large browns. Popular fall destination.
Guides on the Madison River(86)
These fishing guides list the Madison River as one of their home waters.
Fish Kennedy Brothers
Redding, California
Big Sky Anglers
West Yellowstone, Idaho
16 Mile Outfitting
Townsend, Montana
3 Dog Outfitters
Bozeman, Montana
Adventures Outfitting
Ennis, Montana
Al Gadourys 6X Outfitters
Bozeman, Montana
All Valley Anglers Outfitting
Cameron, Montana
Angler’s West Montana Guide Service
Helena, Montana
Backcountry Montana Adventures
Dillon, Montana
Backcountry Angler
Dillon, Montana
Beartooth Flyfishing
Cameron, Montana
Big Sky Expeditions
Helena, Montana
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to fish the Madison River?+
The Madison River fishes well from spring through fall. Peak dry fly season is typically June through September. The salmon fly hatch in late June/early July is one of the year's most exciting events. Fall brings excellent streamer fishing and fewer crowds.
What flies work on the Madison River in March?+
In March, the Madison River sees Blue-Winged Olive activity. Top patterns include BWO Parachute #18-20. Always carry a selection of nymphs as well.
How many fishing guides operate on the Madison River?+
Outguided lists 86 fishing guides who operate on the Madison River. These guides offer local knowledge of hatches, access points, and current conditions that can significantly improve your experience.
What is the current flow on the Madison River?+
The Madison River's flow data is updated every 30 minutes from USGS gauge stations. Check the top of this page for current CFS readings, fishability status, and a 7-day flow trend chart. Optimal fishing flows are 800–1200 CFS.
What fish species are in the Madison River?+
The Madison River primarily holds wild brown trout and rainbow trout. Cutthroat trout may also be present in some sections. Fish sizes vary by section, with tailwater reaches typically holding larger fish.
Quick Conditions
Fishability Thresholds
USGS Gauges
Madison River near West Yellowstone
Station #06041000
Madison River at Kirby Ranch near Cameron
Station #06042500
Madison River near McAllister
Station #06043500