Ennis Lake
The Tackle Shop Fly Shop and Fishing Guides in Ennis, Montana
Ennis Lake Fly Fishing
Ennis Lake transforms the Madison River Valley into a stillwater paradise spanning nearly 2,000 surface acres of pristine Montana water. This shallow, productive lake—averaging just eight feet deep—creates the perfect environment for explosive aquatic insect hatches and trophy trout that have grown fat on abundant food sources. The lake’s “gulper” fishing during Callibaetis hatches provides some of the finest dry fly action in the American West, where massive trout sip mayflies from the surface in heart-stopping displays of precision and power.
WATER DETAILS
Best Time to Fly
The signature Callibaetis mayfly hatch in early August produces world-class dry fly fishing. Spring offers excellent nymph fishing, while fall extends productive fishing well into October with continued hatches and streamer opportunities.
What You’ll Catch
- Rainbow trout (14-20 inches average)
- Brown trout (16-24 inches, with fish over 26 inches caught regularly)
- Exceptional growth rates due to rich food sources
Recommended Flies
- Dry flies: Callibaetis patterns, Griffith’s Gnats, Ants
- Nymphs: Callibaetis nymphs, Chironomids, Damselfly nymphs
- Streamers: Leech patterns, Woolly Buggers, Zonkers
Mastering the Gulper Game
The Tackle Shop offers Orvis Endorsed full-day and half-day fly fishing float trips on the pristine waters of Montana. The all-inclusive adventures begin at the shop by securing your fishing licenses. Gear such as flies, rods, reels, waders and boots are provided. Full-day fishing trips include lunch, snacks and drinks, while snacks and drinks are provided on half-day trips. Book with us today to ensure you get the Montana fly fishing experience you have always dreamed of.
Stillwater Strategies That Work
Lake fishing demands different skills than river fishing. Learn to read wind patterns, identify feeding lanes, and understand how depth changes affect fish behavior. Our guides share techniques for both boat and wade fishing that consistently produce results on this unique water.
Ennis Lake Fishing Report
Our Ennis Lake fishing reports provide crucial information about hatch timing, weather conditions, and productive areas. Updated regularly during peak season, these reports help you plan your visit for optimal conditions and maximum success on this special water.
Waters we float
MONTANA FISHING TRIPS
Float Trips
Fish Ennis Lake from our specialized lake boats, covering maximum water while positioning for active feeding areas. Includes all gear and expert guidance for this unique stillwater environment.
Walk & Wade Trips
Access prime shoreline areas and shallow bays perfect for sight fishing and wade fishing opportunities. Ideal for learning stillwater techniques and intimate fishing experiences.
Overnight Vacation Packages
Combine Ennis Lake with Madison River fishing for the complete Montana experience. Our packages offer diverse fishing opportunities in the heart of the Madison Valley.