2007 Updates from the Manager’s Desk: I’m thrilled to announce the many updates the Ranch has been undergoing in preparation for the 2007 fly fishing season. After a fulfilling day of fly fishing, guests will now be able to soak those sore angling muscles in our new Hot Tub! Located near the Pond, we hope you’ll be able to resist wetting your line as you watch the evening hatches and Jurassic rainbows coming to the surface. We are not called Big Sky Country for nothing; we know you’ll be inspired by the night sky. A newly remodeled upstairs will also greet guests in 2007. You can catch your favorite team playing on satellite TV, challenge friends to a game of cards, or lounge around telling tales of the one that got away while refilling your beverage at the new wet bar. And, if it’s been a hot August day, cool off in the air conditioning while you await the cool night air. A true highlight will be our new lodge opening in August. We are adding some additional guest rooms, much needed staff accommodations, and space for small group meetings. The open great room will have expansive views down the Madison Valley. And, it will be set up with all the amenities to accommodate corporate groups. Oh, there are a few other remodel and upgrade matters going on, but you’ll have to come and see them for yourself. We look forward to sharing the details with our many returning guests as you enjoy the little upgrades here and there! Nothing fancy, just a few nice touches to make your stay as enjoyable and memorable as possible.

Our team at the Madison Valley Ranch is passionate about fly fishing, and we’re excited to share the wonders of Southwest Montana with our guests. In 1996 Scott Carver and his family looked at the picturesque property on the banks of the world famous Madison River and knew they were “hooked”. An original and ongoing owner of the Ranch, the Carver family has put a lot of hard work into making the lodge feel welcoming and homey to please even the most discerning guests.

When they first met 25 years ago playing pick-up basketball at the Denver YMCA, Scott Carver, Tom Fochtman, and Dan Larson had no idea they eventually would jointly own a piece of heaven on the Madison River. But, after a couple blocked shots, they did find out that they shared an intense passion for fly fishing. In 2003 the three friends and successful business owners became partners in the Madison Valley Ranch. With Dan living in nearby Bozeman and serving as Managing Partner, this team works hard to ensure the Ranch exceeds guests’ expectations, while creating an ideal environment for fly fishermen and women of all skill levels.

For these three owners, it was vitally important to have the best of the best at the helm and they found just that with Eaton Outfitters. Chris and Julie Eaton have been with the Madison Valley Ranch since 1998. They provide exceptionally qualified and experienced professional guides with a depth of knowledge of our local waters. With over 4,000 guide days logged on the rivers of southwest Montana, this team knows what it takes to get it done and have fun doing it!

We understand when fishing is your passion there is no time for the small decisions in life, like what to eat for dinner! The Madison Valley Ranch feels fortunate to welcome Chef Scott Warren back for his 6th season. Although he delights in pleasing guest’s pallets, don’t be surprised to catch him sprinting down the trail to the Channel’s section to wet a line. During the winter, he wakes up each morning hoping the weather will be just right to go winter fly fishing or skiing. His wife and Lodge Manager, Elizabeth Warren grew up in SW Montana and as family folklore goes, caught her first rainbow trout on a fly rod at 4 years old. She enjoys working with all our guests to help them plan and prepare for their ideal fly fishing adventure. And, she’ll drop everything for a good fish tale. Call Elizabeth and you’ll soon be caught up in the excitement of what a vacation at the Madison Valley Ranch can offer to you and your friends.

We look forward to hosting and guiding your next fly fishing adventure in Southwest Montana at the Madison Valley Ranch!

“I wanted to send a warm thank you to you and Scott. Elizabeth you were so kind and gracious. You have a great way of making everyone feel so comfortable. Scott you are an amazing chef, and I felt spoiled rotten getting to feast on all your wonderful meals. Please tell Chris, Julie, Jim and Dave we enjoyed every minute of fishing, and appreciate their knowledge and experience in the art of fly fishing. This was one of the best vacations I have had in Montana. And I will be back next season.”

Linda Bratkiewicz
Clive, IA.