Madison River
Hebgen Lake-Quake Lake: 10/7/09
We’ve seen good numbers of Baetis hatching between the lakes in the afternoons over the last several days. Unfortunately, most of the fish showing interest in these mayflies are proportional to the tiny insects. Larger trout have been much more scarce than normal for this time of year. Nymphing will turn up the most fish of any method of fishing and we’ve had luck with both large stoneflies and smaller Baetis nymphs. Hopefully the cool weather will pull more Quake Lake fish into the river in the next week.
Quake Lake-Lyon Bridge: 10/7/09
Baetis hatches have been good in the wade section on cloudy afternoons. With most anglers targeting lake run fish, there aren’t too many folks taking advantage of the fine fishing below Quake. The trout are picky and drifts must be spot on, but some nice fish can be found feeding on the #22 mayflies. Nymph fishing remains a good option during non-hatch periods. Small midge and Baetis nymphs are the ticket this time of year.
Lyon Bridge to Ennis: 10/7/09
Fishing in the float section hasn’t been fast paced, but there is some good fishing to be had, especially in the afternoons. Baetis hatches get trout keyed in on emergent nymphs and these insects are what fishers should attempt to duplicate. When there aren’t Baetis about, throwing streamers is a good way to pass the time and can turn up nice browns.
Gallatin River: 10/7/09
The Gallatin is seeing some Baetis and the nymph fishing continues to be very productive. Dead drifts with indicator or tight line nymph set ups in the pools and pocket water in the Canyon are often met by a feeding fish. Small Stoneflies, Baetis Nymphs and Caddis imitations have all been useful nymphs on the Gallatin. Dry fly fishing can be excellent when Baetis are hatching on cloudy days. Look for fish to rise in tailouts and shallow flats when the hatches are thick.
Hebgen Lake: 10/7/09
Fishing streamers in the fall on Hebgen can turn up some very nice fish. Focus your energy towards the many inlets in the lake.
Quake Lake 10/7/09
Streamers will catch a few large trout on Quake this fall. One of them could be yours.