Late summer is one of the most spectacular times to experience Ennis fly fishing. The Madison River flows clear and cool through the heart of the valley, while the golden hues of early fall start creeping into the cottonwoods and willows along the banks. But it’s not just the fishing that makes August and September special—it’s the wildlife, the wide-open skies, and the slower, quieter pace of the shoulder season.
If you’re looking for a fly fishing trip that blends Montana fly fishing adventure with unmatched natural beauty, this is your time to visit Ennis, Montana, and fish the Madison River with the Tackle Shop’s experienced guides.
Fly Fishing Meets Wildlife Viewing on the Madison River
August and September on the Madison River offer more than trout. Our guides often say that if you keep your eyes on the water, you’ll catch fish—but if you look up, you’ll catch a show.
Late summer is prime time for:
Bald eagles and ospreys diving for fish right alongside you.
White-tailed deer crossing side channels at dawn.
Elk bugling in the hills as the first hints of rut begin in late September.
Occasional sightings of moose along the sloughs and oxbows.
Even black bears roaming the riverbanks as they fatten up for winter.
Our guides at The Tackle Shop love to point out these encounters while keeping you on fish. There’s something about hearing a bull elk bugle across the valley while casting to rising trout that reminds us why we live and fish here.
Fishing Opportunities in Late Summer
Of course, the fishing is still the main event. In August, terrestrial season is in full swing. Expect explosive eats on hoppers, ants, and beetles, especially during midday when the grasshoppers are most active.
As September rolls in, the days cool and Tricos, Baetis, and the early October Caddis begin to show. It’s also a great time to start throwing streamers for aggressive pre-spawn browns.
Want the inside scoop on the best flies for August and September? Our local fly shop has everything you need, from hand-picked patterns to custom guide recommendations.
Things to Do in Ennis After a Day on the Water
When the fishing day winds down, Ennis, MT has plenty to offer visitors who want to soak in the small-town Montana vibe:
Visit the Gravel Bar for a post-fishing burger and live music.
Browse local art and Western gear at Willie’s Distillery, or take a tour and sample their Montana-made spirits.
Head over to Virginia City, just 15 minutes away, for a walk through Montana’s most famous ghost town.
Stop by music in the park on Thursday evenings in the center of town.
Explore Ennis Lake for paddleboarding, kayaking, or a sunset picnic.
For more area recommendations, check out our Ennis area visitor guide.
Book Your Late Summer Guided Fly Fishing Adventure
Late summer in Ennis, MT is pure magic. Fewer crowds, beautiful weather, hungry trout, and plenty of wildlife—what more could you ask for? Whether you’re a seasoned angler looking to throw streamers for browns or a beginner hoping to catch your first Montana rainbow, our Tackle Shop guides are ready to show you the best of the Madison River this August and September.
