Firehole River in Yellowstone National Park

Trout On The Fly Outfitters
(406) 580-7370

Fly fishing the Madison River in Yellowstone National Park is an unforgettable experience for anglers. Trout On The Fly Outfitter is the premier fly fishing guide service in Yellowstone Park.

Here’s what you need to know:

Location: The Madison River flows through both Yellowstone National Park and Montana. In Yellowstone, the river primarily runs through the western part of the park, entering from the West Entrance and exiting near West Yellowstone. Access points are available along the park’s Grand Loop Road.

Lodging: West Yellowstone is 15 minutes away with a wide variety of Vrbos, hotels, motels, and full-service RV parks. If you want to stay inside Yellowstone Park, the Old Faithful Lodge is 45 minutes away, and Canyon Lodge is an hour away.

Trout Species: The Madison River is home to healthy populations of rainbow, brown, and Yellowstone cutthroat trout. These fish can grow to impressive sizes and provide exciting angling opportunities for fly fishermen.

Season: The fishing season on the Madison River in Yellowstone typically runs from late spring through early fall. Early in the season, high water from snowmelt can make fishing challenging, but as the water levels drop and clear, the fishing improves. Fall can also be an excellent time to fish the Madison as trout prepare for winter.

Access: Access to the Madison River in Yellowstone National Park is available from several pullouts and parking areas along the Grand Loop Road. Additionally, there are backcountry trails that lead to remote stretches of the river for anglers seeking a more secluded fishing experience.

Techniques: Fly fishing on the Madison River often involves using a variety of techniques, including dry fly fishing, nymphing, and streamer fishing. The river offers a diverse range of habitat, including riffles, runs, pools, and pocket water, each of which requires different presentation tactics.

Hatches: The Madison River experiences a variety of insect hatches throughout the fishing season, including mayflies, caddisflies, stoneflies, and terrestrials. Matching your fly patterns to the local hatches can significantly increase your chances of success.

Regulations: Fishing regulations within Yellowstone National Park apply to the Madison River, including catch-and-release fishing, the use of barbless hooks, and the prohibition of bait. Anglers must possess a valid Yellowstone National Park fishing permit, which can be obtained at various locations within the park.

Wildlife and Scenery: In addition to excellent fishing, the Madison River offers stunning scenery and the opportunity to observe a variety of wildlife, including bison, elk, and bears. Anglers should always be respectful of the natural environment and take precautions to avoid encounters with wildlife.

Overall, fly fishing the Madison River in Yellowstone National Park is an incredible experience that combines world-class angling with the unmatched beauty and wilderness of the park. Whether you’re casting to rising trout in the shadow of majestic mountains or exploring remote stretches of the river, the Madison River is sure to provide memories that will last a lifetime.