Upper Madison Fishing Report: Stoneflies & Spring Weather

Written By David Kern

Wild spring weather has been the big variable on the Upper Madison this past week. We have seen everything from heavy snow and wind to beautiful, sixty-degree days. Timing those windows of good weather takes patience, but the effort is paying off nicely up high in the Lyons to Ruby sections.

A wild April morning on the Madison River during a spring fishing report trip, featuring an oar caked in fresh spring snow as a storm rolls through the valley.

What They’re Eating: Big Stoneflies

The fish have been feeding heavily on stoneflies right now. You want to focus on larger profiles, specifically sizes 8 and 6.

  • The Go-To Fly: The Girdle Bug (or Pat's Rubber Legs) has been our most consistent producer. Stick to classic color combos like solid black, olive/brown, and brown/black to match the naturals moving around the rocks.

  • Secondary Options: We are still seeing fish eat eggs and worms occasionally, but it is not as consistent up here as it is downriver. If you want to fish these, target the slower water holding just below the rainbow redds (spawning beds). Just be mindful of where you step and give actively spawning fish plenty of space.

Current Flows: USGS Upper Madison River Near Cameron

Flyshot Outfitters guide David Kern rowing through a heavy April snowstorm during a spring fishing report, proving that the best fishing often happens in Montana’s most unpredictable spring weather.

Looking Ahead: Manage the Wind

The forecast for this week shows a lot of wind, with another storm system moving in by mid-week. When the weather gets rowdy, don't force it. Look for cover, fish the structured banks, and focus on making high-quality, intentional drifts rather than blindly casting into a gale.

David Kern https://flyshotoutfitters.com
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Lower Madison River Fishing Report: Pre-Caddis Nymphing & Stable Flows