Current Conditions:
Consistent flows and the onset of some spring hatches are the latest from the Lower Madison River near Bozeman and Ennis. Trout in the Lower Madison will be found in their usual lies--along bankside structure, in mid-river buckets, drop-offs, and shelfs. Hatches of midges are a daily occurrence, but fish most likely won't key on hatching adults until later in the afternoon. To find fish feeding on the surface on hatching midges, target slower areas where mats of adult midges have accumulated. Blue Winged Olive mayfly hatches should increase in the coming weeks as well.
Tandem subsurface rigs with crayfish, leeches, and worms paired with a smaller beadhead nymph or scud-type pattern are often the most successful. For swinging action, consider other baitfish patterns or articulated streamers through deeper buckets and holes.
If fish are feeding on midges a size 18 or 20 Buzzball or Griffiths Gnat are go to favorites of local anglers.
The Month Ahead:
The Lower Madison often provides consistent float and wade fishing opportunities near Bozeman through March and early April. Hatches of March Browns, Blue Winged Olives, and some early season stoneflies can all occur. Expect flows to remain relatively consistent, however a large rain event or increase in daily air temperatures may cause Cherry Creek or Bear Creek to pump mud into the main stem.