Madison River Outfitters Fly Fishing Report 5/16/2017
Montana
Upper Madison
Cool weather is on the forecast as we cross mid-May. Weather this week in the valley could range from mid-30s and snow to 60s and overcast by the weekend depending on which report you read. Flows out of Hebgen have been at 1,860 for the past few days now. Flows could rise again as inflow to the lake has been high. Cabin and Beaver Cr. have slowed a bit, but expect Quake to stay dirty for at least the rest of the month. The Wade section is certain high and dirty, but anglers are still finding plenty of fish nymphing the banks.
Flies haven't changed much, but worth adding a few BWO/Baetis emergers and nymphs if you haven't already. Pretty decent amount of bugs out on calmer afternoons, a few fish rising in the soft bank water and slicks. Top nymphs this week have been the #8 Brown Sili Leg, #10 Biot Stonefly, #10 Morrish Cone Stone, Pink San Juan, #16 Serendipity, and the #16 Crsytal Dip. Make sure to fish right off the bank before hopping in!
Hebgen Lake
Picking up a lot of bugs on the windshield driving around Hebgen this week. If you have time to get out while the wind is down, take advantage of it. Also, plan on bringing a few leeches with your chironmid box in case the wind is up. Slow stripping should continue to find big spring fish for a while longer.
Yellowstone Park- Opens 5/27
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Jake Schilling
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