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 canyons, offering clear, swift waters teeming with trout amidst stunning mountain scenery.

Overall Fishing Conditions

Fishing conditions on August 3, 2025, look solid with sunny skies and mild winds predicted after morning fog, though slightly below-average flows and warmer water temperatures around 64-68°F may make fish more selective; I'd rate it a 7 out of 10, as the forecast suggests good visibility and activity despite potential midday slowdowns from heat.

Insect Hatches and Their Timing

Late-summer hatches will likely feature terrestrials like hoppers and ants, peaking in the late morning and evening when warmer air temperatures around 82°F draw insects to the water. Caddis and small mayflies could appear sporadically in riffles during cooler early mornings.

Species to Target

Focus on rainbow and brown trout, which are abundant and actively feeding in deeper runs and pockets given the current flows. Cutthroat trout might also be present in slower sections near Ennis.

Top 5 Fly Patterns to Use

• Use a size 10-12 Hopper pattern for surface action during terrestrial hatches.
• Try a size 14-18 Pheasant Tail nymph for subsurface fishing in riffles.
• Opt for a size 12-14 Elk Hair Caddis when evening caddis hatches start.
• Go with a size 8-10 Woolly Bugger streamer for aggressive brown trout in faster currents.
• Select a size 16-20 Adams dry fly for any late mayfly activity in shaded areas.

Best Times of Day to Fish

Early morning around sunrise will offer the best hatches and cooler water for active fish.
Late afternoon to evening, especially near moonrise at 7:03 PM, should provide strong feeding windows as insects increase.
Avoid midday when high temperatures hit 82°F and fish retreat to deeper holds.