Written by: Pete Kutzer

The goal of the Trout School was to teach folks how to catch more of these beauties.
All photos courtesy Eaton Outfitters
We just had a great specialty school at Madison Valley Ranch in Ennis, Montana. The lodge is perfectly located for a school, right on the banks of the Madison River. We had six guest at the school, some of whom were new to fly fishing, and everyone caught fish. Some of the fish were really nice, too. I also captured what might be the best whitefish hold I’ve ever seen. (See below.)
I can’t wait to see what happens in the Steelhead School in September and the Muskie School in October. If they turn out like the trout school at Madison Valley Ranch, I should have more photos of some pretty excited anglers.

Madison River rainbow trout are muscular and healthy.

That’s a seriously chunky brown trout.

Trout-school students are usually all smiles when they see their new skills put to work.

Even the Madison’s whitefish will put up a great fight.

This is the kind of trout that might grow a little bit in the retelling.

Hmmm. Unconventional “grip-and-grin” hold, but that’s a fine whitey.
Pete – It was a blast hosting you and your students! What a great event – if you are interested in learning to fly fish or just want to hone your skills, sign up for one of Pete’s schools! He is a phenomenal host, and you’ll walk away with some great new tricks and tips to land a big one as well as gaining some new fishing buddies. Hope to see you again soon Pete!
Anne / Peter,
Could not agree more, a great time learning and spent with a fun group! I’m “hooked” and will be back in the water at Lee’s Ferry soon to apply my new skills!
Wonderful place and job showing the “how and why”…First class all around!
You’ve really energized my zeal for this new hobby!
Doug (One of the Magnificent Six!)