The Madison River flows alongside US-287 for the entire 14-mile stretch between Ennis and Virginia City, making it one of the most accessible quality trout streams in the American West. The river holds large populations of brown and rainbow trout, and fly fishing is the method of choice. Ennis is the outfitter hub — half a dozen guide services operate out of the town, offering half-day and full-day float trips that cover the most productive water.
You don't need a guide to fish the Madison. The river runs through a mix of public and private land, but the public stretches are extensive and well-marked. The most popular section for wade fishing is the stretch through Ennis, where the river braids across a wide valley and wading access is easy. Late spring and fall are the best seasons — summer water temperatures can drop fish activity in the warmest stretches. A Montana fishing licence is required and readily available online or from Ennis sporting goods shops.