Fishing Report Upper Madison River 1-17-2016

The weather monkeys are telling us that even though we will be getting some snow in the next week the average temps should be about normal to above normal. This can bring some great fishing even some dry fly fishing if the dreaded winter wind stays away. I think a good place for the wind is South Dakota. If we get good days the midge fishing should pick up and the dry fly shot will increase. If you just want to scratch the itch and get a bent rod go with the bobber and the typical winter Madison River fare of San Juans, eggs, turds, and zebra midges. This should keep you good and happy all afternoon. Remember if you catch a fish there is most likely more fish in the area. They stack up in the slower water this time of year so keep pounding the spots and you will be surprised how many fish are in there. The river is in good shape and we are getting sufficient snow for the summer at this point. There is still lots of winter left and things can change but right now you should take low water out of your worry box and sleep a little easier. The river has some significant ice ledges and ice flow on the colder days. If it warms up a little these will be gone. We have been having the best success either in the Bear Trap Canyon or between the lakes. Both areas protect you from the wind and have less ice flow on average. Is the elusive midge hatch and dry fly shots going to happen on any particular day. Heck I dont know but I do know that when it is good this time of year it is really good. A little warm weather and we can swtich from the heavy bobber lobber to a dry fly rig at least for a few hours. If your throwing streamers low and slow is the name of the game right now. Keep them near the bottom and moving dead drift or slight twitch.