Everyone is looking for the big bad Salmon Fly on the Madison River right now. It is like Big Foot some have been seen and even documented but no one can show proof that the hatch is here. Are some fish looking up yes most certainly. Are they looking up for the mountains of caddis the goldens and PMD’s I think so. Will they eat a orange colored chubby probably. Is the hatch hot and heavy now? Absolutely not. When is is going to hit in full force is anyones guess. I think they need two good days of heat to make the Madison River Explode. Will we get it this weekend I hope so and so does the greater fishing community based on the number of phone calls we are getting each day.
So what can you do now? Nymphing has been really good as of late. A rubber leg stone fly with a caddis emerger behind has been money especially on the lower half of the river. If you want to float flies try a smaller golden sized chubby with a caddis or parachute mayfly trailer. Some nice fish are being caught from folks that stick to this. We really like the Furminski caddis as a trailer, it floats well, and really imitates the fluttering motion of a natural caddis.
If your a streamer guy bring your fur collection and go to work. The water and color are almost perfect for throwing big fur and feathers for big fish. Stick with it and you will be rewarded. We have been catching our fair share on the sparkle minnow family so give it a try.
If your going fishing this weekend bring plenty of beer it is going to be hot and you will want to share some with all the friends you will see on the Madison River. It gets crazy this time of year. Just remember we are all out for a good time and lets all respect each other. When its busy it can add a new dimension to floating and fishing on the Madison.
If I was to guess I would say the Salmon Fly fishing will be really good starting say June 20-21. Same date I have been forecasting for months. Lots of new and exciting floaty salmon fly’s in the bins all ready for the naturals to show up to the party.
