Madison River

Ennis, MT, United States · Fly Fishing · Intermediate

Fifty miles of classic riffle water below Quake Lake, often called the longest riffle in America. Wade or float for wild browns and rainbows with the Madison Range as a backdrop.

Getting there & access

  • Fish from: land-based or boat
  • Boat ramp: Ennis Fishing Access Site boat ramp, just south of Ennis on the Madison
  • Parking: Gravel and grass parking at the access site, with room for trailers
  • Facilities: Boat ramp, Vault toilets, Drinking water, Campground, Picnic tables, Fire rings

Montana's Fishing Access Site network provides public entry along the river. Camping at Ennis FAS is limited to 7 days for a small fee, and sites suit RVs up to about 25 feet. Popular access points fill early on summer weekends, particularly during the salmonfly hatch.

Access information source

Species

  • brown trout
  • rainbow trout

Best times to fish

  • Salmonfly hatch (late Jun-Jul)
  • Caddis evenings
  • Autumn brown trout run

Recommended gear

Essential

  • 5-6 weight fly rod
  • Salmonfly and caddis patterns
  • Chest waders
  • Polarized sunglasses

Optional

  • Drift boat or raft
  • Wading staff
  • Streamer box

Regulations and requirements

  • Montana fishing licence and conservation licence required
  • Sections have wade-only and closed-water rules — check FWP
  • Hoot owl restrictions may close afternoon fishing in hot weather

Rules change regularly — always confirm with the relevant fisheries authority before you fish.

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