Runoff Season

Runoff season has arrived on the Madison River. Currently we are at 1380 CFS at Kirby and 2180 CFS at Varney and both are stable.  We are seeing a bump in water flows and a decrease in clarity every time we get temps over 70 for multiple days.  It is that time of year.  We should expect to see mud coming from Beaver, Cabin and the West Fork of the Madison.  This will kick up when temps get above 70 ish for multiple days.  While we did not get a ton of snow there is still stone up there to melt and come out.  When these bumps happen we will also see a decrease in water temps as the water coming in was snow yesterday.  This is all really normal for this time of year for the Madison River.

Good fishing in High Water

If you are getting out during one of these bumps think dark and near the banks.  The fish can see dark offerings better in the mud than light colored.  This high water also pushes the fish to the bank.  When this happens most of the fish are within 5 feet of the shore.  Latterly fish just off the bank and keep your feet dry.  Things like stone fly nymphs, dark bodied streamers will shine.  Our favorite flies are black or olive bunny sculpins.  Lots of sculpins get dislodged during high water and become food for hungry fish.

 

Keep your leaders short and thick.  I like about 4 feet to 1X during the mud.  Rope will help you get back some that get hung up and the fish will not care.  Add some split shot to get it down if your are not ticking bottom.  A good size float or bobber is needed and takes are usually sudden and violent.

 

Salmon flies are on the horizon. We think by the 20 of the month we will be seeing some big bugs here in town.  Lots of good stuff coming in hot.  Our guides are super busy at the end of the month. If you want your day in the front of a drift boat throwing big dries during the salmon fly hatch you should call us now and get it booked.  This hatch does not last long and this year it might go fast.