July 23nd, 2007
1,530 CFS
Simply put, the upper Madison is in its prime. Early risers have been doing very well nymphing yellow sallie nymphs, caddis larva, and PMD emerging nymphs, and those willing to jerk-strip an olive circus peanut during those hours have been doing exceptionally well. As far as surface activity goes, PMD's have been hatching around 10:00 a.m. with the caddis joining in sporadically throughout the morning. Afternoon fishing has been a little tougher up on top, but small hoppers, beetles, spruce moths, PMXs, craneflies, and especially ANTS have been the key to bringing some really nice fish to the surface. That being said, nymphing is still your best for sheer numbers during the hot afternoons-- #14-18 Caddis pupa (green), #16 brown hare's ears, copper johns, and shop vacs have been some of the top producers. For the evening, all you really need in your box are a few size #16 tan and olive caddis from 6:00-8:30 p.m., and a size 14-16 rusty spinner from 8:30- dark ( the spinner falls have been incredible!). Top streamer patterns continue to be yellow sex dungeons, brown and yellow double screamers, olive and white circus peanuts, gray and white articulated zonkers, and T&A Bunkers. If you have any questions on where to fish or what the "fly of the day" is out on the river, stop by the shop, and one of our experienced guides will be more than happy to assist you.