Ennis Lake

Ennis Lake is a shallow reservoir on the Madison River between the town of Ennis and Beartrap Canyon, famous for its summer 'gulper' fishing during Callibaetis mayfly and trico hatches. When conditions align, large rainbow and brown trout cruise the flats feeding on emerging insects, creating exciting sight-fishing opportunities for anglers in float tubes and small boats. The lake also holds healthy populations of mountain whitefish. Spring and fall provide good fishing when the lake isn't too weedy, with streamers and nymphs effective for cruising trout. Summer weed growth can make fishing challenging, but the gulper action during hatches draws anglers from across the region. A boat ramp at the Ennis Lake Recreation Area provides access. The lake sits at the head of Beartrap Canyon, where the Madison River enters a dramatic wilderness gorge. Anglers should be aware of changing weather conditions on this exposed body of water.