A hatch chart for fly fishing the Madison River in Montana identifies the key insect species that emerge throughout the year, as well as the timing of their hatches.
The Madison River is known for its prolific insect activity, making it a premier destination for fly fishing.
Below is a general hatch chart with fly recommendations tailored to the Madison River:
Madison River Hatch Chart
Early Spring (March – April)
- Blue-Winged Olives (Baetis)
- Size: 16-20
- Time: Midday to afternoon, especially on overcast or drizzly days.
- Patterns: Parachute Adams, RS2, Baetis Sparkle Dun, Pheasant Tail Nymph.
- Midges
- Size: 18-24
- Time: Morning and evening.
- Patterns: Zebra Midge, Griffith’s Gnat, Disco Midge.
- Skwalas (Stoneflies)
- Size: 8-12
- Time: Late March through April, midday.
- Patterns: Skwala Dry, Pat’s Rubber Legs, Stonefly Nymph.
Late Spring (May – June)
- March Browns
- Size: 10-14
- Time: Late morning to early afternoon.
- Patterns: March Brown Dry, March Brown Nymph.
- Caddisflies
- Size: 14-18
- Time: Evening hatches, especially on warmer days.
- Patterns: Elk Hair Caddis, X-Caddis, CDC Caddis Emerger.
- Pale Morning Duns (PMDs)
- Size: 14-18
- Time: Late morning to early afternoon.
- Patterns: PMD Parachute, PMD Sparkle Dun, Pheasant Tail Nymph.
- Yellow Sallies (Stoneflies)
- Size: 14-16
- Time: Midday.
- Patterns: Yellow Stimulator, Yellow Sally Dry, Soft Hackle Nymph.
Summer (July – August)
- Pale Morning Duns (PMDs)
- Size: 14-18
- Time: Late morning to early afternoon.
- Patterns: PMD Parachute, PMD Sparkle Dun, Pheasant Tail Nymph.
- Caddisflies
- Size: 14-18
- Time: Evening hatches.
- Patterns: Elk Hair Caddis, X-Caddis, CDC Caddis Emerger.
- Terrestrials (Ants, Beetles, Grasshoppers)
- Size: 10-16
- Time: All day, especially on windy days.
- Patterns: Parachute Ant, Foam Beetle, Dave’s Hopper.
- Tricos
- Size: 18-22
- Time: Early morning.
- Patterns: Trico Spinner, Trico Parachute.
Fall (September – October)
- Blue-Winged Olives (Baetis)
- Size: 16-20
- Time: Midday to afternoon, especially on overcast or drizzly days.
- Patterns: Parachute Adams, RS2, Baetis Sparkle Dun, Pheasant Tail Nymph.
- Mahogany Duns
- Size: 14-16
- Time: Midday.
- Patterns: Mahogany Dun Dry, CDC Emerger.
- Midges
- Size: 18-24
- Time: Morning and evening.
- Patterns: Zebra Midge, Griffith’s Gnat, Disco Midge.
- Terrestrials (Ants, Beetles)
- Size: 14-18
- Time: All day.
- Patterns: Parachute Ant, Foam Beetle.
Notes for Fishing the Madison River
- Water Conditions: The Madison is a freestone river, so flows and clarity can vary with snowmelt and rainfall. Check conditions before heading out.
- Techniques: Nymphing is effective year-round, especially during non-hatch periods. Dry fly fishing peaks during hatches.
- Regulations: Be sure to check Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks for current fishing regulations and access points.
This hatch chart provides a general guide, but local conditions and weather can influence insect activity. Always observe the river and adjust your tactics accordingly. Tight lines!
Looking for more information on fishing the Madison River? Check out this DIY Guide to Fly Fishing the Madison River.