Disclaimer: The following report is compiled using artificial intelligence from current available data. Accuracy is not guarenteed. Always check local laws and regulations before fishing.

The Madison River in Ennis, Montana, flows through wide valleys and rugged mountains, offering crystal-clear waters teeming with trout and surrounded by breathtaking scenery in the Madison Range.

Overall Fishing Conditions

Fishing conditions on July 31, 2025, look solid at a 7 out of 10, with warmer-than-average water temperatures around 64-67°F boosting trout activity, though the chance of afternoon thunderstorms from the forecast could stir up hatches but also make wading trickier; flows are slightly below average at 1150-1340 ft³/s, providing good access without much turbidity.

Insect Hatches and Their Timing

Summer hatches like Pale Morning Duns and caddis are peaking, influenced by the 70% humidity and waxing crescent moon; expect them mid-morning through evening, especially after any patchy fog clears, as the forecasted showers might trigger more activity.

Species to Target

Focus on rainbow and brown trout, which are abundant and feeding aggressively in the river's riffles and runs due to the stable flows and warmer water.

Top 5 Fly Patterns to Use

• Parachute Adams for imitating PMDs in slower water.
• Elk Hair Caddis for evening surface action.
• Hopper patterns to match terrestrial insects on the banks.
• Beadhead Pheasant Tail as a reliable nymph in deeper runs.
• Woolly Bugger for attracting bigger trout during low-light periods.

Best Times of Day to Fish

Early morning around sunrise offers calm conditions before winds pick up to 3-10 mph; late afternoon to evening is prime for hatches, but watch for thunderstorms as per the forecast.