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Madison River Fishing Guides

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Recently Booked Fishing Guides Near Madison River, Mt

Fishing in Madison River

River Fishing Trip in Madison River

Multi Boat Madison River Float

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1 - 6 People From $1,300
Fishing in Madison River

River Fishing Trip in Madison River

Madison River Float Trip

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1 - 2 People From $500
Fishing in Yellowstone River

River Fishing Trip near Madison River

Yellowstone River Float

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1 - 2 People From $500
Fishing in Yellowstone River

River Fishing Trip near Madison River

Yellowstone River Full-Day Jet Boat

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1 - 2 People From $750
Fishing in Twin Bridges

River Fishing Trip near Madison River

Multi-Night At Stonefly Lodge

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Fishing in Ennis

Lake Fishing Trip near Madison River

Ennis Lake Float Trip

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1 - 2 People From $500

Most Popular Types of Trips in Madison River

“Our Damn Good Guides go above and beyond to provide you an incredible trip, and we’ve handpicked every single one. We’re passionate about the outdoors and about empowering people to find the perfect-match guide for the trip of a lifetime, every time.”

Jonathan and Attison   |   Co-founders   |   Austin, Texas

River Fishing Guides Near Madison River, Mt

Fishing in Madison River

River Fishing Trip in Madison River

Madison River Float Trip

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1 - 2 People From $500
Fishing in Big Sky

River Fishing Trip in Big Sky

Half Day Walk And Wade

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1 - 3 People From $325
Fishing in Twin Bridges

River Fishing Trip in Twin Bridges

Montana River Fly Trip

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1 - 2 People From $620
Fishing in Gallatin Gateway

River Fishing Trip in Gallatin Gateway

Full Day Float (Multiple Rivers)

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1 - 2 People From $650
Fishing in Twin Bridges

River Fishing Trip in Twin Bridges

Overnight Day Trip (Peak Season)

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1 - 2 People From $790
Fishing in Twin Bridges

River Fishing Trip in Twin Bridges

Multi-Night At Stonefly Lodge

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Lake Fishing Guides Near Madison River, Mt

Fishing in Ennis

Lake Fishing Trip in Ennis

Ennis Lake Float Trip

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1 - 2 People From $500
Fishing in Ennis

Lake Fishing Trip in Ennis

Ennis Lake Full-Day Jet Boat

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1 - 2 People From $750
Fishing in Helena

Lake, River Fishing Trip in Helena

Missouri River Float Trips

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1 - 2 People From $600
Fishing in Ennis

Lake, River Fishing Trip in Ennis

Gallatin Valley Float Trips

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1 - 2 People From $700
Fishing in Hebgen Lake

Lake Fishing Trip in Hebgen Lake

Hebgen Lake Full-Day Jet Boat

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1 - 2 People From $750
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Fishing in Bozeman

Lake, River Fishing Trip in Bozeman

Finest Fly-Fishing Guides - Bozeman

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15 ft 1 - 2 People From $575

More Fishing Guides Near Madison River, Mt

Fishing in Twin Bridges
Fishing in Twin Bridges
Fishing in Twin Bridges
trip description for Overnight Day Trip (Peak Season) in Twin Bridges

Head out with Dan, aka "Rooster," for an action-packed overnight fishing trip in Twin Bridges, Montana! This area of Southwest Montana is home of the Big Hole, Beaverhead, Ruby, Madison, and Jefferson Rivers. Experience world-class fly fishing, accommodations, fly shop, and guides located in the heart of Montana's Blue Ribbon Trout Country! Rooster and his team's goal is simple, to give you an experience you will never forget. With the best in the business Montana fly fishing guides, they have packages for all anglers. Stay at the Stonefly Inn, bring your fly rod, your buddy or spouse, and do a self-guided trip and they are happy to point you in the right direction. Rooster and his team consists of a very diverse, seasoned guide staff - one that has been cultivated over the last 15 years. Whether you are a beginner or experienced angler, they make sure to pair you up accordingly. While everyone has their niche - these guides have a very good sense of teamwork and will stop at nothing to make certain you walk away a better fisherman than when you arrived. **Available Waters:** The Big Hole River - Fed by three different mountain ranges, dozens of freestone creeks and flowing over 100 miles, the Big Hole River is one of those places you just can't get off your mind. Often referred to as "The Last Best River", the Big Hole fishes well from ice out in April until the winter weather hits in November. Limited outfitter use makes this river a first choice for many guest anglers. The Beaverhead River - One of the three great tailwaters in Big Sky Country. Stable water flows, dense populations of trout, and great insect life make this river a great option almost any time of year. Multiple spring creek influxes below Dillon create some great clear water opportunities to fish dry flies during the heat of the summer. Big browns on hoppers. A great river to fly fish. The Madison River - They say you have to have an ace in the hole. If Rooster had to pick a river to fit that bill, it would be the "Maddy". Astonishing numbers of trout and good water flows through the summer months keep the rods bent when fishing might be tough elsewhere. The Jefferson River - Formed in Twin Bridges by the confluence of the Big Hole, Beaverhead, and Ruby Rivers, the Jefferson flows northbound over eighty miles to the confluence of the Madison and Gallatin Rivers to form the Missouri. Receiving less pressure than any of the others, this is one of those fisheries that you have to see to believe. The Ruby River - As our friends refer to secret spots - the Ruby River is a "sleeper". From the dam to Twin Bridges there is over 40 miles of twisting, turning trout water. Good public access makes this a great place to spend an afternoon before, during or after your trip. **Seasons:** There are three main seasons when it comes to Montana fishing. Get your line in the water when the fish are most hungry in the peak season, or get world-class fishing at a discount in the shoulder season. Early season (Shoulder) - April, May, and June – The Rocky Mountains can deliver some pretty severe weather during these early months of the fishing season. You should plan accordingly, and realize that the weather can be here today - gone tomorrow. You will want breathable waders, felt or rubber soled boots, raingear, layers of fleece, gloves, hats, glasses and hats. We could also have summer weather as early as late May, so make sure to pack a couple pairs of shorts and your favorite fishing shirt. Summer season (Peak) - June, July, August, and September - With the summer upon us, you can expect temperatures to range from cool in the early a.m. to downright hot in the afternoons. Long sleeve fishing shirts, broad billed hats, and polarized sunglasses can relieve some of the summer sun. Although shorts and wading sandals are the norm, summer thunderstorms are common in SW Montana, so always have a light rain jacket in your gear bag. Fall season (Shoulder) - September, October and November - As the summer winds to a close, we say goodbye to the dog days and welcome cooler mornings and warm afternoons. September is hopper month in these parts, so a stout 6 wt. is a good choice. By the middle of September the water temps have fallen to the point that you’ll likely be more comfortable wearing waders. For those that plan an October trip to Montana, your gear bag should include layers of fleece, raingear, a warm hat, gloves and of course a good pair of glasses. **Lodging:** For those wanting a true Western fly fishing experience, The Stonefly Inn is the perfect choice. Located in the heart of Twin Bridges on Main Street, minutes from world class rivers that offer the best trout fishing in Montana. These all-inclusive packages cover all Montana farm-to-table meals cooked by an awesome chef, lodging in one of the cabins, guided fishing, flies, rods, reels, all terminal tackle. The recently renovated cabins have upgraded mattresses, new linens and furnishings. The common area is a great gathering place with comfortable seating, TV, screened porch, dining tables, bar. The outdoor fireplace area is a favorite among guests, a great place to hang out in the evenings and they keep it stocked with firewood all season. You have full use of the on site amenities when you book with Rooster and his team. Their fly shop is also located on the property if you need supplies. **Rod, Line and Fly Recommendations:** Rooster and his gang strongly recommend a 9ft or 9.5ft, 6 weight rod. A 5 weight will do almost anything a 6 will, but you might have to work harder to get the fly to the fish in the wind. And yes, the wind has been known to blow out in the Rocky Mountains! They prefer WF lines. Their favorites are the Scientific Anglers Sharkwave and Trout Stalker. When it comes to leaders, anything 7.5ft 2,3 & 4X class will work fine. When you fish with them, the flies are included in your package, and they have plenty of them. Their guides carry hundreds if not thousands of the patterns that work on their local waters and their shop bins are fully stocked with tried and true flies. However, if you would like to tie some flies of your own, they recommend giving the shop a call and they can advise you further. In the meantime you can rarely go wrong with these: 1. Chubby Chernobyl – Peach, Orange, Purple, Tan, size 6-12 2. Prince Nymph – tungsten beads are better, CDC Collars are great, size 12-16 3. Pat’s Stone – Tan, Brown, Black and Olive, size 4-12 4. Pheasant tail – Tungsten, no flashback, size 12-20 **Montana Fishing License Requirements:** You will need to purchase a conservation license, along with a fishing license that will cover the amount of days you plan on fishing. They are sold in 2’s and 10’s as well as a full season. Rooster recommends purchasing your license online prior to arrival, as they are not a license agent – it will help expedite getting you on the river! **Food and Drink:** Your dining experience is certain to be a highlight of your fishing trip! Rooster and his team strive to accommodate all dietary restrictions. If you require any special dietary consideration or have food allergies please do let them know and they will make sure your needs are provided for. They generally serve wine with dinner. If you are someone that enjoys an evening cocktail or beer, there is a liquor store a few doors down that is well stocked. Many guests provide a bottle or 2 to share with their fellow anglers during the course of their stay at Stonefly. Read More

River Fishing Trip near Madison River

Overnight Day Trip (Peak Season)

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1 - 2 People From $790
Fishing in Emigrant
Fishing in Emigrant
Fishing in Emigrant
trip description for Yellowstone River Float Trips in Emigrant

Get ready for an action-packed day of Montana fly fishing when you join Jordan and float your way down the mighty Yellowstone River with one of the most experienced guides in Southwest Montana. On this fly-fishing trip, you'll be floating down the Yellowstone River on a 4 or 8-hour stretch anywhere from Gardiner to Livingston, targeting Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout, and Native Cutthroat and Cut bows. Jordan is a great teacher and can cater his trips to groups of all experience levels. He and his guides will provide everything you need for your trip, including rods, reels, tackle, flies, a fully stocked cooler and sage advice! All you need to bring are weather-appropriate clothes (a rain jacket's always a good idea), eye protection (preferably polarized sunglasses), and a great attitude! Read More

River Fishing Trip near Madison River

Yellowstone River Float Trips

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16 ft 1 - 4 People From $500
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Fishing in Sheridan
Fishing in Sheridan
Fishing in Sheridan
trip description for Finest Fly-Fishing Guides - Sheridan in Sheridan

Bozeman Montana area includes the Yellowstone, Madison, both of legendary status. The Sheridan area that is home to the Ruby, Big Hole, Beaverhead and Jefferson. Craig is on the banks of the Missouri. Missoula Montana offers a slew of incredible blue-ribbon rivers within a short distance from downtown. Mike and his guides know the Yellowstone, Madison, Ruby, Big Hole, Beaverhead, private water on the Beaverhead, Missouri, Blackfoot, Bitterroot, and the Clarks Fork rivers like the back of their hands and fish them all based on what river is fishing best. Generally, the hatches on each of the rivers rotate and trade-off perfectly so there is always action to chase in the vicinity. Mike's outfit and his slew of incredible guides are committed to offering you the highest quality Montana fly fishing experience available. He and his experienced guides will row the extra mile to ensure this fishing trip is one you’ll remember for a lifetime. They will provide all the terminal tackle (flies, tippet, floatant, etc). They've got you covered on rods and reels if you need them and will provide a gourmet on the river lunch for you as well. Rivers in the Area: **The Bitterroot River** in southwest Montana is a dry fly fishery. Not many rivers in the west can claim such a statement, but the “Root” is a unique stream. The fact that the infamous Purple Haze dry fly pattern was developed/invented by a long-time Bitterroot guide tells you that it’s a special place. A float trip down the Bitterroot River never disappoints and the scenery and caliber of fishing are hard to beat. Although the Root can fish well in the winter months the real start to the season here is March and April with the world-famous Skwala stonefly hatch. This event is one of the few places in the west that offers the angler a chance at catching nice-sized trout on size 10 or bigger dry flies in early spring. March Browns and Blue Winged Olive Mayflies also make a daily appearance and can offer outstanding topwater action. The river is characterized by cobblestone runs, deep pools, and woody debris that hold large Rainbow, Cutthroats, and Brown trout. Summer See’s the usual hatches of PMD’s, Sallies, and Tricos with Grasshoppers keeping trout looking up well into October. The fall is also a special time on the Root, with cooler weather and Mahogany dun mayflies and Hecuba drake’s offering the last substantial meal for trout before winter sets in. **The Blackfoot** is on every fly fisherman’s bucket list, and deservedly so. Blackfoot River Fly Fishing is an angler’s dream come true. A true classic western freestone river and its hatches are impressive: the Giant Salmon Fly, Golden Stones, PMDs, terrestrials, are just some of the hatches you’ll find on the Blackfoot. Come fish the Blackfoot River with Fishtales Outfitting and you’ll want to come back every year! The Blackfoot River or as it’s sometimes called the Big Blackfoot as to distinguish it from the Little Blackfoot in western Montana near Missoula is a truly special place. The Nez Perce of Idaho found this route as the way to the Upper Missouri Basin to hunt buffalo. The Nez Perce name for the Blackfoot is Cokahahalishkit which means river of the road to buffalo. A diverse and dynamic fishery fed by snowpack and springs with all of the main trout species present. Depending on the time of year, you have a shot at a Blackfoot “Grand Slam” catching a rainbow, cutthroat, brown, brook, cut-bow. The Blackfoot is characterized by large boulders and pocket water that’s stuffed with wild trout and offers an exciting float trip with outstanding hopper/dropper fishing throughout the summer. Many reaches of the Blackfoot River offer a beautiful wilderness setting with little development on its banks, plenty of wildlife, great trout fishing, and gorgeous scenery to add to the experience! **The Clark Fork River** is one of Montana’s best-kept secrets, hidden in plain sight. Many anglers drive by it on their way to fish other famous Montana rivers like the Bitterroot or Blackfoot. We at Fishtales Outfitting love elbow room and great trout fishing, we think you’ll agree! The largest river in Montana by volume it begins its 310-mile journey near the town of Butte MT, and as it meanders its way towards its terminus at Lake Pend Oreille it offers hundreds of miles of floatable water. The upper river is a smaller stream with many diverse types of water that mostly holds Brown trout and the occasional Westslope Cutthroat. This is fantastic streamer water with a legitimate shot at a trophy Brown. As the river heads west along I-90 towards Missoula it gains volume from many tributaries and becomes a large freestone river in a heavily forested corridor. This lower zone is a dry fly fishery that can rival the best hatches on the Missouri River. Large Rainbow, Cutthroats, and hybrid Cut-bows dominate the water here and eagerly come to the surface to devour the many species of mayflies that hatch here. The lower river also offers the added bonus of being a trophy Northern Pike fishery with some research showing fish of 45″ or better, which can be an exciting change of pace from trout fishing. The Clark Fork is typically pretty low on the visiting anglers’ list of rivers to float fish which makes it one of the lesser crowded in all of western Montana. Read More

Lake, River Fishing Trip near Madison River

Finest Fly-Fishing Guides - Sheridan

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14 ft 1 - 2 People From $575
Fishing in Big Sky
Fishing in Big Sky
Fishing in Big Sky
trip description for Half Day Walk and Wade in Big Sky

Wade your way into the water with Ennion for a memorable day of Big Sky fly fishing! Big Sky is well known for its hundreds of miles of Trout-filled waterways, which is why fly fishers are always flocking to this scenic hotspot. On this half or full-day trip, Ennion will wade you into one of these productive rivers such as the Madison, Yellowstone, Beaverhead, Bighole or Missouri where you'll be targeting Brown Trout, Cutthroat Trout and Rainbow Trout. From here he'll give you some of his expert fly-fishing tips and let you try your luck. These rivers are great for throwing your first fly casts or honing in your skills on a relaxing day of river fishing. Whether you're new to fly fishing or not, Ennion will give you some helpful pointers to help get some fish on your line! Ennion will provide all rods, reels, flies, transportation to and from the river, snacks and non alcoholic beverages. Let him know when booking if you will need to rent waders and wading boots, which he will provide at an additional cost. All you need to bring is a valid Montana Fishing License. A hat, sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, and a rain jacket are recommended. Come enjoy the beautiful mountain waters with Ennion! Read More

River Fishing Trip near Madison River

Half Day Walk And Wade

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1 - 3 People From $325
Damn Good
A Certified Damn Good Guide is someone who goes above and beyond to show you an incredible experience on your trip. Guides earn this badge through quality reviews, quick and responsive communication, and low cancellation rates.
Fishing in Sheridan
Fishing in Sheridan
Fishing in Sheridan
trip description for Yellowstone River Fish Frenzy in Sheridan

Missoula Montana offers a slew of incredible blue-ribbon rivers within a short distance from downtown. Mike's outfit and his slew of incredible guides are committed to offering you the highest quality Montana fly fishing experience available. He and his experienced guides will row the extra mile to ensure this fishing trip is one you’ll remember for a lifetime. They will provide all the terminal tackle (flies, tippet, floatant, etc). They've got you covered on rods and reels if you need them and will provide a gourmet on the river lunch for you as well. The Yellowstone River is one of the greatest trout streams in the world and holds the title for the longest undammed, known as a ‘freestone’ river in the lower 48 states. There is outstanding trout water from its tributaries high inside Yellowstone Park, downstream through Gardiner, the Paradise Valley, Livingston, and down below Big Timber,a total of almost two hundred river miles. Explore the legendary river with our Yellowstone fly fishing guides for a fun, guided fly fishing day trip in Montana. The quality of the fly fishing is excellent here. We float fish in several different sections of the prime trout water between Gardiner and Big Timber, depending on the time of year, water conditions, and water levels. Highway 89 takes you through the Paradise Valley to the town of Gardiner, the Gateway to Yellowstone National Park. Explore and catch cutthroat trout, large whitefish, rainbow trout, and brown trout with our Yellowstone fly fishing guide. Join our guided tour at Fishtales Outfitting and enjoy some fantastic fly fishing on the Yellowstone River today! Read More

River Fishing Trip near Madison River

Yellowstone River Fish Frenzy

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14 ft 1 - 2 People From $550
Fishing in Helena
Fishing in Helena
Fishing in Helena
trip description for Missouri River Jet Boat in Helena

Meet up on the Mighty Mo (Missouri River) for an awesome Jet Boat trip chasing Monster Rainbows and Big Browns on a blue ribbon tailwater with your pro guide Ikaika. Expect big, and very calm, moving water which is usually pretty difficult to cover in a drift boat, but with a jet boat to motor you around you will have much more flexibility to hit all the best spots on the river (multiple times even!). This river is known for its extremely large fish and is located in the Gates of the Mountains where Lewis and Clark Rowed through themselves exploring the West. The average size fish is ~17-18in and there are really great chances at 20+ inch fish all over. On this full-day excursion, Ikaika will use his jet boat to motor upriver, shut down the motor, and row you through the premium canyon runs over and over again. This technique will allow you to access water that is too deep to wade fish and allow you to really hone in on the best runs. From here he'll give you some of his expert fly-fishing tips and let you try your luck. Whether you're new to fly fishing or not, Ikaika is eager to teach and will get some fish on your line! Read More

River Fishing Trip near Madison River

Missouri River Jet Boat

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1 - 2 People From $700
See All Trips in Madison River

Everything to Know About Booking a Fishing Guide in Madison River

What are the best fishing trips in Madison River?

Our Damn Good Guides currently offer 25 trips in Madison River, and the most popular trips in the area are Multi Boat Madison River Float guided by Nate and Madison River Float Trip guided by Nate.

Our guides in Madison River are rated a 5 out of 5 based on 2766 verified reviews on Captain Experiences.

All guides on Captain Experiences are licensed, insured, and vetted by our team. You can access their reviews, click through trip photos, read bios to get to know them, and preview trip details like species, techniques, group sizes, boat specs and more.

Other popular cities nearby for booking a charter include Ennis, Gallatin Gateway and Bozeman.

Looking for kid friendly guides / fishing lessons in Madison River? Check out our beginner and family friendly guides in Madison River.

What types of fishing trips are common in Madison River?

River fishing is the most popular in Madison River as well as lake fishing.

The most commonly sought after species in Madison River are: 1. brown trout, 2. rainbow trout, 3. cutthroat trout, and 4. brook trout.

The most common fishing techniques in Madison River are fly fishing, drift fishing, and wading but artificial lure fishing and light tackle fishing are popular as well.

How much does a Madison River fishing trip cost?

in Madison River prices can range anywhere from about $500 to $2,480, but the average price for a half day trip in Madison River is $536. The average price for a full day trip in Madison River is $1,351.

What month is best for fishing in Madison River?

The most popular season for fishing in Madison River is summer, and most anglers book their trips 1 days in advance.

Do I need a Madison River fishing license and what are the bag limits in Madison River?

See here for more information on fishing licenses in Madison River, bag limits for target species, and fishing season regulations in Madison River. When in doubt, your fishing guide will always know the right rules and regulations in Madison River.

Popular Types of Fishing In Madison River

Madison River fishing charters offer a variety of experiences for anglers of all levels. The most common types of fishing charters in Madison River include fly fishing, spin fishing, and drift boat fishing. Each type of fishing offers a unique experience and allows anglers to catch different types of fish.

Fly fishing is the most popular type of fishing charter in Madison River. It involves using a lightweight fly rod and a special type of line to cast a fly to the fish. This type of fishing is best for catching trout, including rainbow, brown, and cutthroat trout.

Spin fishing is another popular type of fishing charter in Madison River. It involves using a spinning rod and reel to cast a lure or bait to the fish. This type of fishing is best for catching a variety of fish, including trout, whitefish, and grayling.

Drift boat fishing is a unique experience that allows anglers to fish while floating down the river. This type of fishing is best for catching trout and allows anglers to cover a lot of water in a short amount of time.

Some of the most common fish to catch in Madison River include rainbow trout, brown trout, cutthroat trout, whitefish, and grayling. Madison River fishing charters often visit landmarks such as the Madison River Canyon, Hebgen Lake, and Quake Lake.

The Best Places To Fish In Madison River

Madison River in Montana is a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts. With its crystal-clear waters and abundant fish species, it's no wonder why. Here are some of the best places to fish in Madison River, Montana:

1. Three Dollar Bridge - This iconic spot is known for its large rainbow and brown trout. Fishing charters often stop here for a chance to catch a trophy fish.

2. Raynold's Pass - This area is known for its excellent dry fly fishing. Fishing charters often take their clients here for a chance to catch some beautiful cutthroat trout.

3. Ennis Lake - This large reservoir is home to a variety of fish species, including rainbow trout, brown trout, and kokanee salmon. Fishing charters often take their clients here for a chance to catch a trophy fish.

4. Bear Trap Canyon - This scenic canyon is known for its challenging fishing conditions, but the rewards are worth it. Fishing charters often take their clients here for a chance to catch some large brown trout.

5. Quake Lake - This lake was formed by an earthquake in 1959 and is now home to a variety of fish species, including rainbow trout, brown trout, and arctic grayling. Fishing charters often take their clients here for a chance to catch some unique fish species.

Other Things To Do In Madison River

While Madison River fishing charters are a popular attraction, there are plenty of other things to do in this Montana city. Take a scenic drive through Yellowstone National Park, hike the trails at Gallatin National Forest, or go horseback riding at a local ranch. For a more relaxing day, visit the Bozeman Hot Springs or take a dip in the Madison River. History buffs will enjoy the Museum of the Rockies, while art enthusiasts can explore the galleries and studios in downtown Bozeman. And don't forget to indulge in some local cuisine at one of the many farm-to-table restaurants in the area.

Recent Reviews of Captain Experiences

  • ★★★★★
    Jordan is an absolute Master of his craft. His understanding of fish is unparralled. Honestly its like he is one. The yellowstone was blown out due to heavy rains so we audibled to a 17 mile float on the Lower Madison. We fished a new and totally unique set of techniques fishing indicators with crayfish pattern followed by a nymph. He told me exactly when to mend, when to let the flies drag a hair, and when to re adjust with a new cast to get the perfect action on the flies. I missed a lot of big eats and landed some beautiful (and fat) rainbows and browns! Back at the ramp no one had the succes we did. I learn so much from Jordan everytime im out there. Can’t reccomend booking a trip with him enough.

    David I. with Jordan G. of Emigrant, Montana

  • ★★★★★
    The trip was great, from beginning to end. Ian was very helpful on the phone booking the trip, especially since we only booked it the night before. Nate and his team were helpful, and Matt was particularly generous with his time. His enthusiasm for his job and for our trip were contagious. We had a beautiful day on the water and had some success with the fishing, but the trip would have been great even if they weren’t biting that day.

    Danny O. with Nate S. of Gallatin Gateway, Montana

  • ★★★★★
    One of the things I wanted to be dang sure I did while I was there was fish the Yellowstone in a drift boat, and was lucky enough to get it done. With lots of fishing travel under my belt you never know how it will go and in this case the plan came together and it was a good day to be alive. The Boss and I met our guide Nathan at the ramp at 8:00 and it was not long before we were on the water. The Boss and I are really fly fishing neophytes with lots to learn and Nathan was a perfect guide and teacher for our day on the water. He has fished those rivers for 35 years, was patient, technically proficient, and just an overall good guy to spend the day with. As I noticed in the park there were lots of grasshoppers and it turned out to be our plan for the day. In my case catching any particular fish on topwater is the bomb, and we spent most of the day fishing larger hoppers with a smaller floating “something or other” on a dropper around 8″ behind. And it was so interesting to see the fish react. A few smashed it, (At least for a trout.) most barely slurped it under, and others could not resist rolling on it, or just taking a look. It took me a bit to get the hang of setting the hook like you need to and after a while I managed to toss a couple of small rainbows completely over the boat. It really was a new way to fish for us and it took a while to get the hang of it but I intend to put those lessons to work in Colorado when I head there this fall. Since this was our 5 or 6th run at it the Boss commented that each place and method was different, it is all part of the learning process. I probably went about 10 for 20 with one whitefish, the Boss struggled. So late in the day Nathan put us on a nymph rig with an indicator. (Or as we regular folks call it, a bobber.) He wanted to be sure the Boss caught a fish and she finally boated a rainbow and a native whitefish. But the Boss was happy just sitting in the back and enjoying the day and the view, but I give her credit, she kept casting like a trooper. He was so patient as we tangled, crossed, casted like the rookies we are, and he just continued to act like the professional he is. (Except we all laughed like crazy when at one point when we were thrashing multiple messes he said; “Stop casting!”) Of course I told him I would trash him here so let me do it now – One of the best guides to spend the day with I have had the pleasure to fish with. So take that homie. From the Great Barrier reef, Belize, Colorado we have fished with our share and today was one of the best all around experiences we have ever had. The fishing was not fast by any means, but the bite was consistent. I was not surprised by the number of refusals with the traffic and it being late in the season. Nathan made several fly changes during the day until we finished the day with the nymph rig and put the last couple in the boat. He worked hard to put me on a little bigger fish and his efforts were appreciated. Probably if I would have bullshitted less and fished harder I might have boated one of the better fish I missed, but I could have cared less as numbers were not the reason for the day. Being a Saturday there was quite a bit of traffic, but it is a big river, and when compared to Froggie’s on the weekend no big deal. Of course we had a few incidents where both guides and the public cut us off, or were just plain were clueless. (Sound familiar you coastal boys?) As you know one of my rules to live by on our busy waterways – Be nice, be the bigger man, and just because you have the right of way let them go. Nathan naturally lives and practices that making our day on the water pleasant and fun and he is a credit to the profession. I can be pretty hard on guides. It really was comfortable fishing from the drift boat. The Boss loved the safe manner he operated and being able to stand up and cast from the leaning post, or whatever it is called. I learned a lot about the drift boat and how it preforms on the water. As we accelerate our search for our place in the mountains Montana has made the list. Of all the places I have fished Montana gets an A+ for the access available to the public. (So thanks Nathan for offering to be my new best friend and take me fishing all the time if we end up in the area. At least I thought I heard him say that!) And a big thanks to Jonathan of Captain Experiences for booking and following up on our trip. The home of Damn Good Fishing Guides, this site has guides all over the country and they lived up to their name when they hooked us up with Nathan. Nathan guides out of Bozeman, Montana, fishing the Yellowstone, Madison, and a couple of other great Montana rivers. Nate, the owner, kept us informed with a full written itinerary, with constant follow up both before and after the trip. It was a professional job all the way around. So if you are looking for a guide anywhere, or wanting to fish the Yellowstone area, give Jonathan a call and he will put you with the best. Overall a first class trip. So when it is all said and done it was a great way to spend a day along with our park expedition. And here is a taste of what is next, as soon as I organize all of the park stuff. We saw almost everything we wanted to this trip and were so fortunate to see the wolves everyday along with enough wildlife to keep us happy. (For a while!) And to Nathan, I have added the Madison to my bucket list. Thanks for reading my stuff.

    Doug C. with Nate S. of Yellowstone River, Montana

  • ★★★★★
    Had a really great time fishing the Yellowstone, Upper Madison on drift boats. Caught nice browns and rainbows. Wades the Gallatin and caught nice fish on dry flies. Our guide was Matt and he was great to work with not to mention he’s a trained chef so the lunches were fantastic. Highly recommend these trips. The booking process was simple and effective thanks to Captain Experiences.

    Jay W. with Ennion W. of Gallatin Gateway, Montana

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