REGION: Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest TITLE: Madison River
NOTES: Near Ennis, the Madison River is well-known as the states best fly fishing destination with a long season for high density trout and dramatic scenery. Expect to find plenty of other flycasters going after the big population of brown trout, rainbow trout, cutthroat trout and arctic grayling.
The Madison River begins in Yellowstone National Park at the confluence of the Gibbon River and the Firehole River in Hebgen Lake. It runs over 140 miles to the Missouri River at the town of Three Forks. There are some sections which are closed to float fishing, so make sure to check with local land managers on any stretch that you plan to float. The most popular section is the 50 mile stretch from Quake Lake to Ennis Lake which is essentially one long riffle. This is a great place for beginners since the water flows at constant pace along the length. Its relatively easy to wade or to float. You can expect to find large rainbow trout and large brown trout.
Below Ennis Lake, the Madison River runs another 30 miles to the Three Forks confluence.
FOR MORE
INFORMATION: BNF (406) 682-4253; Montana Visitors (800) 847-4868; Full Circle Outfitters (406) 465-0274; Stone Fly Shop (406) 494-0707.
