UPPER MADISON RIVER FISHING REPORT

OCTOBER 2026

UPDATED 10/16/2026

As we reach the peak of fall in the Madison Valley, we’ve seen our first snowfall of the season  leaving a substantial amount of fresh snow in the high country and bringing consistently colder temperatures to our river. With the season quickly changing, we’re beginning to see some of the best opportunities fall fishing has to offer, along with some important changes in trout behavior.

Flows on the Upper Madison are sitting at typical lower fall levels, with around 700 CFS coming out of Hebgen, 800 CFS at Kirby, and just under 1,000 CFS near Ennis as of 10/16. Be prepared to hit bottom or walk a hard boat in certain sections, while still being mindful and following river etiquette with other boats and anglers around you. With temperatures continuing to drop and winter on the horizon, having the right gear can make all the difference. A good pair of gloves and warm layers will keep you comfortable and on the water longer. There’s nothing worse than cutting an exceptional day of fishing short due to being cold! Stop by the shop if you need advice or to stock up on cold weather essentials before heading out.

These cold temperatures have definitely started shifting insect activity, with the most abundant hatch being fall Baetis (BWOs), mostly in the size 18 to 22 range. Lots of midge activity as well in that size 20 to 24 range, along with sporadic hatches of October caddis in the late afternoons to evenings in the size 10 to 14 range.

Streamer fishing is by far my favorite and preferred way to target larger, quality fish this time of year. With brown trout becoming more aggressive and active, streamer fishing can provide some excellent opportunities. Don’t be afraid to switch up your retrieves, colors, and profiles throughout the day. Paying attention to how fish respond to different presentations can make all the difference. 

One of the most important things I want to emphasize is respecting brown trout and their redds. This is a critical time of year for the future of our fishery, and it’s extremely important that we’re all mindful of where and how we are fishing and wading. I would encourage everyone to avoid targeting fish that are actively spawning or holding directly on redds. There are plenty of opportunities to catch quality fish away from spawning areas without disturbing these fish while they are vulnerable and already under stress. Taking a little extra time to recognize spawning habitats and being mindful of where you are walking can make an extreme difference for the future of our river. A successful day on the water isn’t always measured by the fish we catch, but sometimes by the fish we choose to leave alone.

- MRFC Guide Jackson Veeneman

Snowpack Link

Do you want to experience the Madison River from a drift boat? Learn more about aquatic insect life? Maybe you want to fine-tune your casting skills? Spend the day with one of our world-class guides on a Guided Fly Fishing Trip! 

Hot Flies:

Dry Flies: Pederson's 401K Baetis, CDC Sparkle Dun Baetis Olive, Elk Hair Caddis Olive, Finfetcher Caddis, Oikawa's Caddis Tan.

Streamers: Mini Dungeon Black & Olive, Dungeon Yellow, Woolly Bugger Black, Sparring Partner Brown Trout. 

Nymphs: Zebra Midge, Juju Baetis Tungsten Red, BH Pheasant Tail, Spanish Bullet French, Olsen's Hare's Ear Blowtorch, Pat's Rubber Legs Black, Three Dollar Dip Brown.