One of the highest forms of praise for any of us in the fly fishing world is to be recognized by the best for being the best. Our peers know excellence because they provide excellence. That’s why I was so happy when Madison Valley Ranch was recognized by Orvis at the 2015 Orvis Guide Rendezvous in Missoula, Mont., as their Orvis Endorsed Fly Fishing Lodge of the Year. It’s a great honor, and no one ever deserved it more.
But how do you maintain that level of fabulous fishing, great accommodations and a guest-friendly environment? Ask Kaitlin Groundwater or Manu Redmond, the new lodge managers at MVR. They’ll tell you that it’s not about booking trips, it’s about welcoming friends.
Located just three miles north of the trout mecca of Ennis, Mont., this handsome ranch-style lodge is nestled in the heart of the Madison Valley bordering the famous Madison River and Jack Creek. Their river access and private 2-acre stocked pond are just yards from our door. When you come to Madison Valley Ranch, you come to fish. And some of the best fishing Montana has to offer is right outside the door. A short walk out the back door will find you casting to rising fish in the famous “channels” section of the Madison River, or a short drive and you can be fishing on the Big Hole, Beaverhead, Yellowstone, Ruby or Gallatin Rivers.
The Madison Valley Ranch has been catering to beginner and advanced fly fisherman for over 20 years and their team knows every riffle and seam in the Madison, Big Hole, Beaverhead, Ruby, Gallatin and Yellowstone rivers.
Whether you prefer the challenge of wade fishing or the comfort of drift boats, the knowledgeable and enthusiastic guides will navigate amateurs to experts on the scenic and trout-filled Madison River. The unparalleled access to guided fishing adventures on nearby blue ribbon trout streams allow anglers to customize their dream fishing itinerary.
But fishing is only one reason to love Madison Valley Ranch. Great fishing is just that – great. But what about the food? Returning to the Madison Valley Ranch after two seasons as sous chef, Matt Pease heads up the kitchen as executive chef. Following formal training at the Pennsylvania Culinary Institute, Matt honed his skills in kitchens up and down the East Coast working under several industry leaders in a variety of dining settings. He has a love for seasonal sustainable practices, working with small producers, and utilizing fresh products at peak season. Expect creative and delicious dishes with great attention to detail and innovative use of local ingredients. When not serving up gourmet meals to MVR guests you can often find him wetting a line on the Madison or tying flies.
A great fly fishing trip is about fishing, for sure. That’s why people come to the Madison. But great fishing, along with a great lodge, great food and great people – that’s Madison Valley Ranch.
Madison Valley Ranch, LLC (L)
Kaitlin Groundwater & Manu Redmond
Ennis, MT 59729
(800) 891-6158