Patrick McGinnis fly fishing guide
About us

Welcome to the Madison

I’m Patrick McGinnis, and I started Fifty Mile Riffle Guide Services to provide the kind of personalized, high-quality experience you usually only get from a veteran independent guide. I specialize in float trips and walk-and-wade excursions across the Upper and Lower Madison.

My philosophy is simple: we take it one fish at a time. I don’t care if you’ve never held a fly rod or if you’ve been chasing trout since before I was born—my goal is to get you on the water, teach you a few things you didn’t know yesterday, and have a hell of a lot of fun doing it.

Fly Fishing Trips

Our Services

01

Full Day Float Trips

The gold standard. A full day on the boat including a hearty shore lunch.

695 / boat
02

Half Day Float Trips

Perfect for a quick fix or beating the afternoon heat.

495 / boat
03

Custom Packages

Looking for something specific? Let’s build a multi-day itinerary that fits your group.

TBD

Ready to schedule a trip?

About Us

Your Guide: Patrick McGinnis

I grew up in St. Louis, cutting my teeth on the brown trout of the Ozarks and the White River. I’ve been obsessed with fly fishing since I was 16 and have spent over a decade at the vise tying the patterns I use today (I know what’s a proven winner and what’s just hype).
I’ve been guiding on the Madison since 2017. After years of working in the shops in Ennis, I decided to go independent to ensure every client gets a premium, focused experience. To me, there is nothing better than watching a repeat client come back year after year, seeing their skills sharpen and their passion grow. I’m here to guide you, but I’m also here to make sure you go home with a story worth telling.

I’ve booked through the big fly shops in Ennis before, but going with Patrick at Fifty Mile Riffle was a different level. He knows the Madison intimately and put us on fish when other boats were struggling. Plus, the shore lunch was incredible.

Jeff

Let’s Get on the Water.

I’m usually on the oars during the day, but I make it a point to respond to every inquiry by the end of the day.