Oh September what a glorious month it is to be on the Madison and in Montana. The first chill of fall, leaves of gold, cooler days and nights, and fish that are re-energized. If a person could only spend one week fishing the Madison each year and wanted good fishing, stable water and great views mid September would be hard to beat.
The month usually starts off with summer still in full force. As we progress we usually have a summer ending event of rain and snow in the high country that marks the true start to fall. This usually happens around the middle of the month. After that it is full fall and the fish take notice. They are trying to put on weight to get through our Montana Winter and the browns are getting restless for the seasonal spawning run
The month starts out for the dry fly guys with hoppers, ants and attractors. Fish are still spooky so keep the 4X handy. As the month rolls along BWO’s will show their face and the fish start paying attention. Look for overcast rainy days with no wind and you will find some sipping fish.
The nymph ninjas will keep hammering fish and following bobbers all month. Rubber legs, worms, and techy may fly stuff should keep you bent till the snow flies. We have our best luck nymphing this time of year with a leader of only 3X from the bobber and a short 4X tippet. I think the fish get wary of the thicker leaders so we go strait 3X.
September is when the streamer guys really get going. If you want to thow fur now is your time to shine. Sculpins, zonkers, sex dungeons and all others with wacky inappropriate names are the ticket. Stick with it and you will catch some really large fish . By the end of the month they should be chasing and that is when the real fun begins.
Lots of great deals on end of season merchandise. Up to 30% off everything in the store. Start your fall in a new pair of waders or new rod. It will make you fish better.
