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Fishing Report for the Madison River 6-21

Salmon Fly Hatch

Yes the salmon fly hatch is going on the Madison River.  Big bugs are mid to upper river. We have been having the best luck in the Windy Point and Pallisades area.  Yes they moved up the river quickly.  85 degrees the first week or so of June and super low water in the river because they are not releasing from the dam will make this hatch burn hot.  Literally it did most of the river in a week.  If you are looking to get your big bug fix concentrate on the upper portion.  This cool weather and rain will slow them down for a few days.  Look for the big bug up river .  I know lots of folks will be showing up here this week expecting big bug fishing.  The last few years the last week of the month and even the first week of July were the hot times.  This year slightly earlier.  We like low riding salmon flies like chubbies with the wing cut, water walkers, cat puke, Trinas salmon and fools gold.

Caddis and Goldens

If you are below the main salmon fly hatch good for you.  There is still plenty to be excited about.  Golden stones, caddis of every shape and size, yellow sallies, and PMD will all bring fish to the surface.  Our caddis are bumping around most of the day and are the most consistent.  We like the furminsky caddis, X caddis and Jakes all season caddis.  These are all in a tan body.  Remember fish these on 4X and make them float right.  Goldens and PMD along with sallies will also take fish most of the day.  Fish with confidence as the fish are looking for these bugs.  We like fishing below the salmon fly hatch and so should you.  More consistent, less crazy anglers,  and more fun throwing smaller dries.

Nymph Fishing

If you want to be a bobber lobber during some of the best dry fly fishing of the season go ahead. You will not be alone. I can not understand this but see it every day on the river.   If you want to throw nymphs think prince and rubber leg as the base of your set up.  Any of the jiggy PMD suff or even the yellow spot stuff will keep you bent.  Wade through the white fish and you will find success.   Follow the bobber and fish you will catch says river yoda.

Stop by the store for the latest intel on where are the bugs, where to fish, what fly and even how to get there.  Remember we have the friendliest advice in SW Montana.   Stop by you will see.   The shop is full of great gear, new bugs and every trinket and tool a fly fisherman can ask for.  Come by and see.  Get out on the river as this is a darn good time.

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