Madison River Fishing Report for March 20th, 2023
Dam: 975 cfs
Kirby: 1,020 cfs
Varney: 1,190 cfs
The Upper Madison has been fishing well this month, and there’s still have some great dry fly fishing to be had during the early afternoon hours. After an icy cold February, air temperatures have started to creep into the 30’s which has made for much more enjoyable days out there. It’s been a windy one out there too, but usually you can find some shelter around Raynold’s and Three Dollar Bridge as long as it isn’t out of the North.
Water temperatures are still fluctuating between the mid 30’s and low 40’s, so nymphing is still the name of the game until you start to see heads poking up in the afternoon. Not much has changed in the way of productive patterns lately — A good selection of Zebra Midges, Jujubee Midges, Black Dips, Perdigons, and small Pat’s Rubber Legs are all you really need for the time being. If you encounter fish eating midges along the edges, a #20-#22 Goober Midge or Gray Harrop’s Adult Midge will get it done 99% of the time. It’s still a little early for BWO’s but we should start to see them popping through the surface film in the weeks to come. If you get the itch to string up your streamer rod, small sculpin and baitfish patterns are your best bet in low, cold water and the best time to concentrate your efforts is usually from 3:00 pm until sundown.
We have also been getting a few phone calls with regards to the boat ramp situation, and have them listed below. Conditions can change quickly this time of year, so it’s always a good idea to scout your takeout before you put in, and a tow strap or two in your truck is always a good idea.
Raynold’s Bridge – Deep snow, no trailer access
Pine Butte – Deep Snow, no trailer access
Lyon’s Bridge – Packed Snow with trailer access. You’ll need a solid crew to push a boat down to the ramp.
Windy Point – There’s a few small drifts across the road, but no issues getting through them. Good to go.
Palisades – Drift City…No go.
Ruby – Good to go
McAtee – Good to go
Storey Ditch – Good to go, but check on the ice situation before putting in or taking out.
Varney – Icy, but good to go.
8 Mile – Snow and Ice. No Go
Burnt Tree – Snow and Ice. No Go.
Ennis – Snow and Ice. No Go
Valley Garden – Snow and Ice. No go.
