The Yellowstone is still high and mighty, (currently 15,600 CFS) but in the mean time we’ve been chasing stoneflies on the Lower Madison, fishing big size 16 PMD’s on the spring creeks, and fishing dries on private lakes. Although we have had some rainy days this week, the fishing has been good. The Lower Madison has stone flies now. Be sure to bring your big rubber legs for salmonfly nymphs, although there have been reports of a few adults there as well. Goldenstones, yellow sallies, caddis, and crayfish are part of the smörgåsbord as well. The spring creeks have been fishing well, especially in the afternoons. The first PMD’s of the season are the larger species of PMD’s, ephemerella infrequens. These range in size from 14-18 and drive the fish absolutely nuts when the hatch is going. Fishing a large, easy to see PMD mayfly dun or emerger pattern is a treat. Reports of the hatch have started as early as 10 on some days, but have the thickest after lunch. We have also heard reports of a small creme body baetis (size 22) coming off, although the big PMD’s will take precedence over these once they are going. Scuds and midge larva are still a great way to catch fish early in the morning. As always look for a spinner fall in the evening. Private lakes have been fishing well with callibaetis, damsels, and midges. Depending on the day there has been good dry fly fishing and the fish have been big. Give us a call to book a trip: 406-222-7130.
