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Beautiful brown trout. Photo by R. Bredehoft
As a hiker, have you done some hiking with a fly rod in hand? Perhaps you have a friend who is as passionate about fly fishing as you are about hiking. Now is a great time to plan a day together. Hikers and anglers unite for this experience: to exchange favorite pastimes of being in the outdoors by exploring the Madison River in Yellowstone National Park. Maybe you should take bets on who will bring the most stuff! (Let us know who packs the most!)
Located on the west side of Yellowstone, the headwaters of the river begin in the park. There are around 14 miles of the river accessible to fishing and hiking. Close contact to the main road, in some locations, provides for easy access to the river and the trail. Closed areas of the river start at the Seven Mile Bridge and continue upstream 250 yards. The main road is located close to the trail here, so there are no excuses for disturbing this area.
The Madison River is in the Wild Trout Enhancement Area, which is an area concentrating on conserving native and some non-native trout. The area also has a catch and release stipulation of all native species, rainbow trout, and brown trout. Native species of trout include cutthroat trout, arctic grayling, and mountain whitefish.
Fishing is by artificial fly only. Patterns bringing successful casts include nymphs and wooly buggers.
Quick access to the river is through the West Entrance of the park, near West Yellowstone, MT, as the Madison River is the first major river you will encounter entering the park at this location. Be aware that there are special fishing license requirements for fishing in Yellowstone National Park.
Hiking along the banks of the Madison River is a refreshing experience. Conversing with an angler about their extensive knowledge of fish and their feeding habits is an interesting way to learn about rivers and the resources they proved for the species that call the river home. Anglers have to be masters of the river habitat, so that they can entice fish to be caught by means of an appropriate artificial fly. Watching an angler cast to mimic certain “flies” is like watching a solo dance performance. What better way to watch the performance than by hiking along-side as the only viewer.
There are not many who wander the trail of the Madison River, other than an occasional angler and bison, so getting out in the open to enjoy the sounds of the river and nearby wildlife are quick realities. Keep your back pack well stocked; be on the lookout for an afternoon rain or thunder storm and Get Out and Hike with your favorite fishing buddy!
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