Patrick Barta might claim he’s never been cool enough for a nickname, but his laid-back charm and expert guidance on the water tell a different story. Born and raised in Wisconsin, Patrick was captivated by fly fishing after watching A River Runs Through It. A true self-starter, he taught himself to cast and never looked back. Since 2014, he’s been sharing his passion for fly fishing with clients on the Yakima River as part of the Red’s Fly Shop team.

Patrick lives near Thorpe, Washington, in a home he built overlooking the valley. When he's not guiding, you can find him diving into building projects, tending his yard (he’s a prolific weeder!), or enjoying time with his wife, Lyn, of 35 years, and their Pudelpointer, Midge.

While Patrick dreams of fishing in far-off destinations like Kamchatka or chasing tarpon, his heart lies with swinging for steelhead and the occasional perfect dry fly moment. And if you’re lucky enough to fish with him, ask him about his “Patrick’s Stone” fly—it’s a guaranteed winner.

Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just starting out, Patrick’s combination of knowledge, humor, and passion ensures a trip to remember.