Madison River Montana Fly Fishing Report for October 18, 2018

Fishing on the Madison River in Montana continues to impress. Fall is in full swing, fish are being caught on streamers, nymphs and some dries. The real challenge is timing the water temps. We had a considerable cold snap which has lowered the water temps. Look for temps in the upper 40's to low 50's. This happens on sunny days about mid afternoon. Below say 44 it is a no go. The fish are just to cold. We have been seeing the best fishing about mid afternoon. Good hatches of BWO come off each day and make the fish pay attention. Think P tails, psyco mays, and soft hackles. There are some October Caddis bouncing around so a soft hackle prince or hares ear is a good bet as well. Those looking to dry fly fish need to pick their spot. Fish can be found in the soft water behind rocks and inside curves rising to BWO in the mid afternoon. Look close and you will see them. Want to run and gun. Try a October caddis with a long dropper. Streamer guys fish sculpin patterns dead drift or with a twitch. Olive, black and natural are the best colors right now. Keep them slow. Some big fish being caught to those that keep with this game.