Lower Madison Fishing Report
Current Conditions:
The Lower has been dropping recently and is fishing very well. While the water is still high enough to push fish onto the banks, the fish are starting to move back into many of the mid-river buckets and weed beds as well. Streamer fishing has been very hit or miss, while nymphing has been much more consistent. The zirdle to a hare's ear got 'em good yesterday. Crayfish patterns along with worms are also a good option, per usual. Smaller nymphs like Lightning Bug’s, Prince’s, and Yellow Sally’s will become more important as the water continues to drop and clear. Fish are looking up in the evenings, especially in sheltered areas like side channels and in the boulder fields up in Bear Trap Canyon.
The Month Ahead:
The Lower Madison will continue to fish well for another 3 weeks or so until water temperatures reach 70 degrees and recreational floaters take over the river. Nymphing with stoneflies, crayfish, and small beadheads will continue to be the mainstay on the Lower.
Long Term Fishing Forecast:
The Lower will return to a fishable water temperature in late August or early September as longer nights cool the water.
