Madison River Fishing Guides

The bustling college town of Bozeman Montana serves as a hub to access an incredible slew of Blue Ribbon rivers throughout the local Gallatin Valley, and beyond. Right there in the Gallatin Valley you have the Gallatin River, the Lower Madison, and the Jefferson river all three of which flow in from different directions to meet up in Three Forks to form the headwaters of the Missouri River. Only a short distance to the east of Bozeman you've got the Yellowstone river with big flows, big hatches, and even bigger fish! The upper Maddison--known as the 50 Mile Riffle--only a 1.5-2 hour drive as well. Your destination for the day will depend on where your staying and which river is fishing best. Mike's outfit and his slew of incredible guides are committed to offering you the highest quality Montana fly fishing experience available. He and his experienced guides will row the extra mile to ensure this fishing trip is one you’ll remember for a lifetime. The will provide all the terminal tackle (flies, tippet, floatant, etc). They've got you covered on rods and reels if you need them and will provide a gourmet on the river lunch for you as well. Floating **The Jefferson River** is reminiscent of what Montana was generations ago: solitude, sweeping mountain views, ample wildlife, and super-model trout. By Montana standards, the Jefferson may not be the fish factory that other rivers are, but she delivers with a voice that few other rivers possess as she flows north and east 77 miles, meandering its way through pastures and farmland, eventually joining the Madison and Gallatin Rivers in Three Forks to form the Missouri. The Jefferson River has a similar feel as the lower Big Hole with its soft riffles, long runs, and cottonwood log jams left behind from high water. Flanked by the Highland Mountains to the west and the Tobacco Roots to the east, the river changes course and channels regularly here as a freestone river should, and lends itself nicely to drift boat fishing. Down river hatches range from caddis, PMD’s and Yellow Sallies to even Brown Drakes. The best dry fly patterns, water conditions permitting, are likely summer Stones or Hoppers, but the Jeff’s reputation as trophy brown trout water was built on knowing how to trigger the predatory nature of these carnivores. Stripping, and swimming streamers of all manner work wonders. Your guide will teach the needed streamer techniques to entice a hog from his hiding place. If its elbow room and a chance at a really big beautiful brown trout is you seek, join us on a Jefferson River fly fishing trip. **The Madison** has reached legendary status for every fly fisherman, and deservedly so. A blend of freestone and tailwater, it’s hatches are impressive: swarms of Mother’s Day caddis, PMDs, terrestrials, and the mighty Salmon Fly are all on the menu for these hungry trout. With 5000+ browns and rainbows per mile in the Pine Butte section and 2500+ residing in its swift currents throughout the rest of the river, the Madison is stuffed with wild trout. The Madison may look like a simple float and cast-to-the-bank river, but truly she is the siren of Southwest Montana’s rivers. To uncover her secrets takes time, discipline, and many years of experience. Mike and his Guides know this well and they’ll prove it to you by coaxing impressive trout from lies that you would think no sizable trout would ever think to call home. The Madison River is born inside Yellowstone Park at the junction of the Gibbon and Firehole Rivers. It flows 140 miles due north, where it is joined by the Gallatin and Jefferson Rivers to form the Missouri River in Three Forks Montana. It’s from Lyon’s Bridge down to Ennis that many anglers have nicknamed “The Fifty Mile Riffle”. The braided water below Varney Bridge, through the Valley Garden into Ennis Lake, is very different from the single-channel river above, with countless side channels and out-of-the-way spots for large, wild trout to hide. The Madison River enters Ennis Lake – formed by the dam built in 1906 – then rips through the seven-mile Bear Trap Canyon Wilderness Unit. Finally, flowing northward another 28 miles to meet the Gallatin and Jefferson Rivers in Three Forks to form the Missouri River. Join FishTales Outfitting for a fantastic Madison River fly fishing trip that you’ll never forget! The Yellowstone River is one of the greatest trout streams of the world and holds the title for the longest undammed, known as a ‘freestone’ river in the lower 48 states. There is outstanding trout water from its tributaries high inside Yellowstone Park, downstream through Gardiner, the Paradise Valley, Livingston, and down below Big Timber; a total of almost two hundred river miles. We float fish in several different sections of the prime trout water between Gardiner and Big Timber, depending on the time of year, water conditions, and water levels. Highway 89 takes you through the Paradise Valley to the town of Gardiner, the Gateway to Yellowstone National Park. The Yellowstone is a large river varying from 75 to 300 feet. in width. It is wadable later in the summer when flows drop but there is no question it is best fished from a drift boat. You’ll see much more water to present your fly which increases your opportunities to catch fish. The section through “Paradise Valley” is the most scenic and this is also some of the best Montana fly fishing. The sections closer to Livingston holds the highest numbers of trout. Here you’ll find a healthy mix of browns, rainbows, and our native Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout, and Rocky Mountain Whitefish. The Yellowstone’s hatch list includes Mother’s Day Caddis, Salmon flies, Pale Morning Duns, Yellow Sallie’s, Summer Stones, and terrestrials. The Yellowstone offers diverse types of holding water, from the fast pocket water at Tom Miner Bridge to Point Of Rocks where the gradient lessens and the river changes to more long, deep pools with wide riffles and wide, flat tailouts. Downstream past Mallards rest through Paradise Valley is where the spring creeks join the river. This section is one of the most popular with breathtaking views of the Absaroka to the east and Gallatin mountains to the west. The section through Livingston known as the “town run” is a local favorite and offers some great wade fishing opportunities once the flows have dropped later in the summer. Read More

Float your way on the water with your guide and get ready for an action-packed day of Montana fishing from one of the best guides around! On this fly-fishing trip, you'll be rowing out into Lake Ennis to target some Brown Trout and Rainbow Trout. Lake Ennis offers great sight fishing for Rainbow and Brown Trout. Casting accurately at the fish is most productive but not necessary. With its shallow waters, you can either fish directly from the drift boat or fish on the flats with your waders. Occasionally with your guide you will start off casting to rising trout on Ennis lake and transition to fly fishing the Madison River in the afternoon. Fishing starts in Ennis Lake when the ice melts in mid-February to mid-March, offering mostly rainbow and brown trout averaging 14″-16″, and larger trout in the 18″-24″ range are not uncommon. In the summer months, large browns and rainbows (""gulpers"") cruise the lake subsurface, rising to catch mayflies and creating a ""gulping"" sound. The warmer months of August into September can present a great opportunity to spend a couple of hours chasing gulpers. Fishing Ennis Lake in the fall, mid-September through October can be a great opportunity to catch a larger-than-average brown trout. On this half or full-day excursion, your guide will row you where you need to be in a maneuverable drift boat as you take in the beautiful scenery. From here, your guide will give you some expert fly-fishing tips and let you try your luck. Drift boats allow anglers to cover a larger area and access places that may be unsafe for wading. Whether you're new to fly fishing or not, your guide is eager to teach and will get some fish on your line! Regardless of where you are staying – Bozeman, Ennis, Cameron, Helena, Livingston, West Yellowstone, or Fort Smith, Montana – We have you covered. He or another one of his guides will be able to pick you up at your vacation rental, lodge, hotel, campsite, or the airport. If your place of lodging is out of the way, just meet your guide at a convenient location for your day(s) on the water. Your guide will provide all the rods, reels, flies, and tippet you need to get out on the water and catch some fish. They will even have a tasty lunch for all guests. Let them know when booking if you will need to rent waders and wading boots, which they will provide at an additional cost. All you need to bring is a valid Montana fishing license. A hat, sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, and a rain jacket are recommended. Enjoy your day out on the water with your guide! **We have several listings for float trips at nearby locations in the Bozeman / Yellowstone National Park area. They want you to have the best experience possible, so if the fishing is better in another lake or river, they may recommend another location. Whether you want to stick with this spot or hear about other spots, feel free to book your float trip on this listing, and they will get in contact with you about the details!** Read More

Head out with Dan, aka "Rooster," for an action-packed overnight fishing trip in Twin Bridges, Montana! This area of Southwest Montana is home of the Big Hole, Beaverhead, Ruby, Madison, and Jefferson Rivers. Experience world-class fly fishing, accommodations, fly shop, and guides located in the heart of Montana's Blue Ribbon Trout Country! Rooster and his team's goal is simple, to give you an experience you will never forget. With the best in the business Montana fly fishing guides, they have packages for all anglers. Stay at the Stonefly Inn, bring your fly rod, your buddy or spouse, and do a self-guided trip and they are happy to point you in the right direction. Rooster and his team consists of a very diverse, seasoned guide staff - one that has been cultivated over the last 15 years. Whether you are a beginner or experienced angler, they make sure to pair you up accordingly. While everyone has their niche - these guides have a very good sense of teamwork and will stop at nothing to make certain you walk away a better fisherman than when you arrived. **Available Waters:** The Big Hole River - Fed by three different mountain ranges, dozens of freestone creeks and flowing over 100 miles, the Big Hole River is one of those places you just can't get off your mind. Often referred to as "The Last Best River", the Big Hole fishes well from ice out in April until the winter weather hits in November. Limited outfitter use makes this river a first choice for many guest anglers. The Beaverhead River - One of the three great tailwaters in Big Sky Country. Stable water flows, dense populations of trout, and great insect life make this river a great option almost any time of year. Multiple spring creek influxes below Dillon create some great clear water opportunities to fish dry flies during the heat of the summer. Big browns on hoppers. A great river to fly fish. The Madison River - They say you have to have an ace in the hole. If Rooster had to pick a river to fit that bill, it would be the "Maddy". Astonishing numbers of trout and good water flows through the summer months keep the rods bent when fishing might be tough elsewhere. The Jefferson River - Formed in Twin Bridges by the confluence of the Big Hole, Beaverhead, and Ruby Rivers, the Jefferson flows northbound over eighty miles to the confluence of the Madison and Gallatin Rivers to form the Missouri. Receiving less pressure than any of the others, this is one of those fisheries that you have to see to believe. The Ruby River - As our friends refer to secret spots - the Ruby River is a "sleeper". From the dam to Twin Bridges there is over 40 miles of twisting, turning trout water. Good public access makes this a great place to spend an afternoon before, during or after your trip. **Seasons:** There are three main seasons when it comes to Montana fishing. Get your line in the water when the fish are most hungry in the peak season, or get world-class fishing at a discount in the shoulder season. Early season (Shoulder) - April, May, and June – The Rocky Mountains can deliver some pretty severe weather during these early months of the fishing season. You should plan accordingly, and realize that the weather can be here today - gone tomorrow. You will want breathable waders, felt or rubber soled boots, raingear, layers of fleece, gloves, hats, glasses and hats. We could also have summer weather as early as late May, so make sure to pack a couple pairs of shorts and your favorite fishing shirt. Summer season (Peak) - June, July, August, and September - With the summer upon us, you can expect temperatures to range from cool in the early a.m. to downright hot in the afternoons. Long sleeve fishing shirts, broad billed hats, and polarized sunglasses can relieve some of the summer sun. Although shorts and wading sandals are the norm, summer thunderstorms are common in SW Montana, so always have a light rain jacket in your gear bag. Fall season (Shoulder) - September, October and November - As the summer winds to a close, we say goodbye to the dog days and welcome cooler mornings and warm afternoons. September is hopper month in these parts, so a stout 6 wt. is a good choice. By the middle of September the water temps have fallen to the point that you’ll likely be more comfortable wearing waders. For those that plan an October trip to Montana, your gear bag should include layers of fleece, raingear, a warm hat, gloves and of course a good pair of glasses. **Lodging:** For those wanting a true Western fly fishing experience, The Stonefly Inn is the perfect choice. Located in the heart of Twin Bridges on Main Street, minutes from world class rivers that offer the best trout fishing in Montana. These all-inclusive packages cover all Montana farm-to-table meals cooked by an awesome chef, lodging in one of the cabins, guided fishing, flies, rods, reels, all terminal tackle. The recently renovated cabins have upgraded mattresses, new linens and furnishings. The common area is a great gathering place with comfortable seating, TV, screened porch, dining tables, bar. The outdoor fireplace area is a favorite among guests, a great place to hang out in the evenings and they keep it stocked with firewood all season. You have full use of the on site amenities when you book with Rooster and his team. Their fly shop is also located on the property if you need supplies. **Rod, Line and Fly Recommendations:** Rooster and his gang strongly recommend a 9ft or 9.5ft, 6 weight rod. A 5 weight will do almost anything a 6 will, but you might have to work harder to get the fly to the fish in the wind. And yes, the wind has been known to blow out in the Rocky Mountains! They prefer WF lines. Their favorites are the Scientific Anglers Sharkwave and Trout Stalker. When it comes to leaders, anything 7.5ft 2,3 & 4X class will work fine. When you fish with them, the flies are included in your package, and they have plenty of them. Their guides carry hundreds if not thousands of the patterns that work on their local waters and their shop bins are fully stocked with tried and true flies. However, if you would like to tie some flies of your own, they recommend giving the shop a call and they can advise you further. In the meantime you can rarely go wrong with these: 1. Chubby Chernobyl – Peach, Orange, Purple, Tan, size 6-12 2. Prince Nymph – tungsten beads are better, CDC Collars are great, size 12-16 3. Pat’s Stone – Tan, Brown, Black and Olive, size 4-12 4. Pheasant tail – Tungsten, no flashback, size 12-20 **Montana Fishing License Requirements:** You will need to purchase a conservation license, along with a fishing license that will cover the amount of days you plan on fishing. They are sold in 2’s and 10’s as well as a full season. Rooster recommends purchasing your license online prior to arrival, as they are not a license agent – it will help expedite getting you on the river! **Food and Drink:** Your dining experience is certain to be a highlight of your fishing trip! Rooster and his team strive to accommodate all dietary restrictions. If you require any special dietary consideration or have food allergies please do let them know and they will make sure your needs are provided for. They generally serve wine with dinner. If you are someone that enjoys an evening cocktail or beer, there is a liquor store a few doors down that is well stocked. Many guests provide a bottle or 2 to share with their fellow anglers during the course of their stay at Stonefly. Read More

Float the Upper or Lower Madison, Yellowstone, or Gallatin River fishing with Ikaika and his team for an unforgetable fishing trip through the always gorgeous big sky state! Open to fishing from Saturday of Memorial Day weekend through the first Sunday in November, the Gallatin River is a cold, high-elevation, freestone river with grassy meadows, thick willow banks, pocket water, healthy trout, and little to no crowds. This river won't have as many fish per mile as other rivers closer to Bozeman, but it makes up for this with fish size, incredible scenery and low fishing traffic. Bears and moose have been spotted around here, so be sure to bring some bear spray! On this 8 hour excursion, Ikaika will float you into the river from one of the Yellowstone Park access points. From here he'll give you some of his expert fishing tips and let you try your luck. Whether you're new to fly fishing or not, Nate is eager to teach and will get some fish on your line! Regardless of your fishing needs, Ikaika's got you covered. Ikaika will provide all the rods, reels, flies and tippet you need to get out on the water and catch some fish. You will also need to purchase a special Yellowstone National Park fishing license (no state license is required) and pay a $20 entrance fee to get into the park. A hat, sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, and a rain jacket are recommended. Enjoy your day out on the water with Ikaika! Read More

Head out with Dan, aka "Rooster," for an action-packed overnight fishing trip in Twin Bridges, Montana! This area of Southwest Montana is home of the Big Hole, Beaverhead, Ruby, Madison, and Jefferson Rivers. Experience world-class fly fishing, accommodations, fly shop, and guides located in the heart of Montana's Blue Ribbon Trout Country! Rooster and his team's goal is simple, to give you an experience you will never forget. With the best in the business Montana fly fishing guides, they have packages for all anglers. Stay at the Stonefly Inn, bring your fly rod, your buddy or spouse, and do a self-guided trip and they are happy to point you in the right direction. Rooster and his team consists of a very diverse, seasoned guide staff - one that has been cultivated over the last 15 years. Whether you are a beginner or experienced angler, they make sure to pair you up accordingly. While everyone has their niche - these guides have a very good sense of teamwork and will stop at nothing to make certain you walk away a better fisherman than when you arrived. **Available Waters:** The Big Hole River - Fed by three different mountain ranges, dozens of freestone creeks and flowing over 100 miles, the Big Hole River is one of those places you just can't get off your mind. Often referred to as "The Last Best River", the Big Hole fishes well from ice out in April until the winter weather hits in November. Limited outfitter use makes this river a first choice for many guest anglers. The Beaverhead River - One of the three great tailwaters in Big Sky Country. Stable water flows, dense populations of trout, and great insect life make this river a great option almost any time of year. Multiple spring creek influxes below Dillon create some great clear water opportunities to fish dry flies during the heat of the summer. Big browns on hoppers. A great river to fly fish. The Madison River - They say you have to have an ace in the hole. If Rooster had to pick a river to fit that bill, it would be the "Maddy". Astonishing numbers of trout and good water flows through the summer months keep the rods bent when fishing might be tough elsewhere. The Jefferson River - Formed in Twin Bridges by the confluence of the Big Hole, Beaverhead, and Ruby Rivers, the Jefferson flows northbound over eighty miles to the confluence of the Madison and Gallatin Rivers to form the Missouri. Receiving less pressure than any of the others, this is one of those fisheries that you have to see to believe. The Ruby River - As our friends refer to secret spots - the Ruby River is a "sleeper". From the dam to Twin Bridges there is over 40 miles of twisting, turning trout water. Good public access makes this a great place to spend an afternoon before, during or after your trip. **Seasons:** There are three main seasons when it comes to Montana fishing. Get your line in the water when the fish are most hungry in the peak season, or get world-class fishing at a discount in the shoulder season. Early season (Shoulder) - April, May, and June – The Rocky Mountains can deliver some pretty severe weather during these early months of the fishing season. You should plan accordingly, and realize that the weather can be here today - gone tomorrow. You will want breathable waders, felt or rubber soled boots, raingear, layers of fleece, gloves, hats, glasses and hats. We could also have summer weather as early as late May, so make sure to pack a couple pairs of shorts and your favorite fishing shirt. Summer season (Peak) - June, July, August, and September - With the summer upon us, you can expect temperatures to range from cool in the early a.m. to downright hot in the afternoons. Long sleeve fishing shirts, broad billed hats, and polarized sunglasses can relieve some of the summer sun. Although shorts and wading sandals are the norm, summer thunderstorms are common in SW Montana, so always have a light rain jacket in your gear bag. Fall season (Shoulder) - September, October and November - As the summer winds to a close, we say goodbye to the dog days and welcome cooler mornings and warm afternoons. September is hopper month in these parts, so a stout 6 wt. is a good choice. By the middle of September the water temps have fallen to the point that you’ll likely be more comfortable wearing waders. For those that plan an October trip to Montana, your gear bag should include layers of fleece, raingear, a warm hat, gloves and of course a good pair of glasses. **Lodging:** For those wanting a true Western fly fishing experience, The Stonefly Inn is the perfect choice. Located in the heart of Twin Bridges on Main Street, minutes from world class rivers that offer the best trout fishing in Montana. These all-inclusive packages cover all Montana farm-to-table meals cooked by an awesome chef, lodging in one of the cabins, guided fishing, flies, rods, reels, all terminal tackle. The recently renovated cabins have upgraded mattresses, new linens and furnishings. The common area is a great gathering place with comfortable seating, TV, screened porch, dining tables, bar. The outdoor fireplace area is a favorite among guests, a great place to hang out in the evenings and they keep it stocked with firewood all season. You have full use of the on site amenities when you book with Rooster and his team. Their fly shop is also located on the property if you need supplies. **Rod, Line and Fly Recommendations:** Rooster and his gang strongly recommend a 9ft or 9.5ft, 6 weight rod. A 5 weight will do almost anything a 6 will, but you might have to work harder to get the fly to the fish in the wind. And yes, the wind has been known to blow out in the Rocky Mountains! They prefer WF lines. Their favorites are the Scientific Anglers Sharkwave and Trout Stalker. When it comes to leaders, anything 7.5ft 2,3 & 4X class will work fine. When you fish with them, the flies are included in your package, and they have plenty of them. Their guides carry hundreds if not thousands of the patterns that work on their local waters and their shop bins are fully stocked with tried and true flies. However, if you would like to tie some flies of your own, they recommend giving the shop a call and they can advise you further. In the meantime you can rarely go wrong with these: 1. Chubby Chernobyl – Peach, Orange, Purple, Tan, size 6-12 2. Prince Nymph – tungsten beads are better, CDC Collars are great, size 12-16 3. Pat’s Stone – Tan, Brown, Black and Olive, size 4-12 4. Pheasant tail – Tungsten, no flashback, size 12-20 **Montana Fishing License Requirements:** You will need to purchase a conservation license, along with a fishing license that will cover the amount of days you plan on fishing. They are sold in 2’s and 10’s as well as a full season. Rooster recommends purchasing your license online prior to arrival, as they are not a license agent – it will help expedite getting you on the river! **Food and Drink:** Your dining experience is certain to be a highlight of your fishing trip! Rooster and his team strive to accommodate all dietary restrictions. If you require any special dietary consideration or have food allergies please do let them know and they will make sure your needs are provided for. They generally serve wine with dinner. If you are someone that enjoys an evening cocktail or beer, there is a liquor store a few doors down that is well stocked. Many guests provide a bottle or 2 to share with their fellow anglers during the course of their stay at Stonefly. Read More

Float from Pine Butte down to Lyons Bridge on the Upper Madison to get away from the crowds and access lower-pressure sections of the river. They call the Madison river ""The 50 Mile Riffle"" as it babbles smoothly down out of Reynolds pass, offering fantastic wading opportunities for the entire stretch of river. The upper portion of the river stays cool throughout the hot summer months as cold water is released from the Hegben Lake Dam, attracting tons of recreational (solo) fishermen to this area. Thus most of the pedestrian access points see a lot of traffic. This trip combines the best of both worlds for those looking to dissect sections of the river on foot. The section of the river above Lyons Bridge cannot actually be fished from the boat and can only be fished on foot; thus, your guide will float you down the river to the best spots and anchor up the drift boat to hone in on the best sections of the river! The Madison River hosts wild rainbow and brown trout ranging in size from 10″ to monsters reaching up to 28″ with an average length of 15″. The Fall spawning run out of Hebgen Lake will give you some of the best fish. In October through November, expect to see big Browns and Rainbows averaging 19 inches with the occasional 28″ Brown Trout. If you go fishing out here in the fall, be ready for winter conditions where temperatures can drop below zero on any given day, and in the summer, be sure to prepare for rain showers as they can pop up out of nowhere! But as they say in Montana: ""If you don't like the weather, wait 10 minutes!"" Regardless of where you are staying – Bozeman, Ennis, Cameron, Helena, Livingston, West Yellowstone or Fort Smith, Montana – We have you covered. Their guides will be able to pick you up at your vacation rental, lodge, hotel, campsite, or the airport. If your place of lodging is out of the way, just meet your guide at a convenient location for your day(s) on the water. The guides will provide all the rods, reels, flies and tippet you need to get out on the water and catch some fish. They will even have a tasty lunch for all guests. Let us know when booking if you will need to rent waders and wading boots, which they will provide at an additional cost. All you need to bring is a valid Montana Fishing license. A hat, sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, and a rain jacket are recommended. Enjoy your day out on the water with one of our guides! **Nate has several listings for float trips at nearby locations in the Bozeman / Yellowstone National Park area. He wants you to have the best experience possible, so if the fishing is better in another lake or river he may recommend another location. Whether you want to stick with this spot or hear about other spots, feel free to book your float trip on this listing and he will get in contact with you about the details!** Read More