Madison River in Montana

The slow, straight, and gentle course of the Class I Madison River provides an esteemed location for recreactional uses such as wade fishing or those seeking a mild mannered floating trip.

Overview

One of the three main tributaries to the Missouri River, the Blue Ribbon designated Madison River flows westerly through the mountains of Southwestern Montana to eventually join the Jefferson and Gallatin Rivers at Three Forks.  Known for its high quality fishing and temperate waters, the Madison River offers beautiful scenic views.  Snow-capped mountains line the eastern and western skylines and the open river banks are ideal for wildlife sightings.  

Fishing

The Madison River is home to a diverse trout population including brown, rainbow, cutthroat, and cut-bow trout.  The upper section of the Madison River, between the confluence of the Firehole River and Gibbon River to Hebgen Lake, is known for runs of spawning rainbow trout in the spring and brown trout in the fall.  Although the river lacks still water and deep pools, excellent lake fishing exists in Hebgen Lake, a man-made reservoir that controls waterflow of the Madison downstream.

Floating

Providing an easy going and scenic float, the Madison River is an exceptional way to spend an afternoon.  The spacious Madison Valley combined with the snow-capped peaks lining the sky will make any Madison River Montana floating experience memorable.  The 50 mile stretch of calm waters in between Quake Lake and Ennis Lake is called the "Fifty Mile Riffle," which provides for optimal floating.

Camping

Campgrounds and cabins are scattered along the Madison River, giving the visitor a scenic place to stay as well as first hand outdoor recreational opportunities.

Highlights

• Dont limit yourself to fishing and floating!  Spread your time utilizing the great outdoors by hunting, hiking, horseback riding, biking, kayaking or canoeing around the Madison River.