THE CALM BEFORE THE STORM
June 2022
UPDATED 6/24/2022
Some good news on the Upper Madison! The river is finally beginning to clear up, with highs in the 70’s and 80’s for the rest of the week. Here in town the river still has color with roughly a foot and a half of visibility, so it’s definitely clear enough for fishing. Early next week we expect to start seeing green “Fishy” water throughout the entire Upper section of the river. Execute extreme caution if you choose to float from Lyons down to Windy/Palisades. We do not recommend anyone float that section until water levels drop unless you are an expert rower.
Flows out of Hebgen lake are steadily dropping with it now at 1560 CFS compared to 3250 CFS last week. In town the river is still pumping at 3510 CFS which is much lower compared to last week's recorded 5700 CFS. River temperatures are now reaching 60 degrees during the day. With the warm temperature in mind, we expect to see salmonflies showing up in town by this coming Wednesday. Consistent dry fly fishing hasn’t started yet on the Madison because the water is still too dark and off color. However, there are plenty of caddis hanging around and even a few yellow sallies. The streamer fishing is beginning to pick up by the day. Nymphing with a black Pat’s Rubber Leg has been stellar as of late due to all of the stonefly nymphs beginning to move towards the banks. Fish are currently holding near the bank. Your best bet is to dredge a stonefly nymph within 5 feet of where you are standing in the softer water. Here are the flies that I’ve been throwing this week:
Nymphs: #4 Pat’s Rubber Leg, San Juan Worm, #14 Lightning bug, #14 Yellow Sally, #14 Prince
Streamers: Black Mini Dungeon, Olive Peanut Envy, Black Silk Kitty, Black Screamer, Sparkle Minnow
Dry Flies: #14 Brown Elk Hair Caddis, #14 Yellow Sally, and our favorite #4 Salmon Flies.
Looking for some fly tying material to create these patterns? Check out our fly tying collection online or stop by the shop! As temperatures warm up, continue to practice your best fish handling techniques. Avoid fish pictures for the gram whenever possible so that we can continue to have healthy fish populations for years to come.
- MRFC Guide Rob Foster
