Fishing Report – 5/14/26

Opening weekend was a blast! With tons of baetis hatching, the fish in the warmer

rivers have been playing ball and providing many opportunities. Don’t hesitate to call or

come in the shop to book a trip with one of our experienced guides!

Madison River

Clarity: 4/5

Runoff is starting to kick in, but flows are still below average at 575cfs and

temperatures in the mid 60s.

The water is mostly clear, with the Gibbon being the main source of sediment in the

water column. The recent warm up has awakened many of the insects, making this a

more viable option to get a bend in your rod. Baetis and PMDs are going to be your

main Mayflies, with small caddis and occasional White Millers being the next best.

Nymphing is still going to be your most effective approach, with a stonefly trailing a

small mayfly or midge pattern. Keep those dries handy though, as there are more and

more risers being spotted every day.

Firehole River

Clarity: 4.5/5

The Firehole is fishing great! With the main hatch starting around 9am. Cloudy days

can extend this, but get out there early so you do not miss the bugs! Also keep in mind

that there is a bear closure starting at Fountain Flats going upstream. So this is

condensing crowds to the lower sections. Please check the National Parks site for the

map of the closure before going out.

Flows are still pretty decent at around 400cfs, as compared to the average at 435cfs.

Temperatures are still looking warm, with recent spikes at nearly 70°. So look for fish in

faster, more aerated water as the day goes on.

We have been having success swinging White Miller / Hare’s Ear Soft Hackle patterns

up top, with a baetis nymph trailing. Occasional PMDs have been spotted, especially

closer to the falls, so keep these handy as well.

Gibbon River

Clarity: 3.5/5

The Gibbon is starting to slowly shape up. Flows are slowing down slightly at 140cfs,

and temperatures are rising to the mid 60s. The meadow section is slowly coming

alive, but keep in mind the fish can be spooky in this area so walk carefully.

I would suggest throwing dry-dropper rigs here or downsizing your indicator in order to

stay stealthy. Don’t be afraid to swing a streamer through some of the deeper holes as

well to prospect for some larger holdovers. Stoneflies are getting ready to hatch soon

further upstream so consider bringing out some of those larger dries if you aren’t

seeing many mayflies.