Southwestern Montana

The Madison River between Hebgen Lake and the Yellowstone Park boundary is subjected to a Hoot Owl restriction.   The same restriction is on the Beaverhead River below Dillon. Good PMD and caddis activity is ongoing downstream of Quake Lake to Ennis.  Beetles and ants are becoming important for foraging trout. The river is warming to the point that early and late in the day are best times to fish. A few giant and golden stoneflies are around between Hebgen and Quake Lakes. The Big Hole River offers good top water fishing, but water temperatures are on the rise. The Gallatin River, cold and clear, has really shaped up with PMDs, giant and golden stones, yellow sallies, PMD, and caddis bringing good top water fishing. There can be discolored water below the Taylor Fork confluence after rainstorms.