Premier Salmon & Steelhead Rafting in Oregon

Raft Fishing for Salmon and Steelhead

Trip Overview

Hey there, fellow anglers! Ready for a day of epic fishing that'll knock your waders off? Hop aboard our 14' NRS Fishing raft and let's explore the hidden gems of the Willamette Valley and Oregon Coast Tributaries. This ain't your average fishing trip - we're talking about chasing salmon and steelhead in waters that most folks don't even know exist. It's just you, a buddy, and miles of pristine river to ourselves. No crowds, no fuss, just pure fishing bliss. We'll be targeting some of Oregon's most prized game fish, including rainbow trout, steelhead, Chinook salmon, and cutthroat trout. So grab your gear and let's hit the water for a day you won't forget!

What to Expect on the Water

Listen up, because this is where the magic happens. We'll be drifting down lesser-known stretches of river, far from the madding crowds. Our NRS raft is the perfect platform for this kind of fishing - stable enough to stand and cast, but nimble enough to access those hard-to-reach honey holes. We'll be using a mix of techniques depending on the conditions and target species. Expect to do some fly fishing, some conventional casting, and maybe even some good old-fashioned bait fishing if that's what the fish are craving. I'll be on the oars, guiding us through the riffles and pools, pointing out prime lies where big fish like to hang out. And don't worry if you're new to this - I'll walk you through every step, from rigging your line to setting the hook when a chrome-bright steelhead slams your lure.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

Let me tell you, there's something special about fishing these waters that keeps folks coming back year after year. Maybe it's the thrill of hooking into a wild steelhead in a stretch of river that looks like it hasn't changed in a thousand years. Or perhaps it's the heart-stopping moment when a big Chinook salmon decides your fly looks tasty and nearly yanks the rod out of your hands. But I reckon it's more than just the fish - it's the whole package. The mist rising off the river in the early morning, the osprey circling overhead, the feeling that you're in on a secret that most of the world doesn't know about. And let's not forget the camaraderie - there's nothing like sharing a day on the water with a good friend or family member, swapping stories and creating new ones. This trip is all about getting back to what fishing is really about - good times, great catches, and memories that'll last a lifetime.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Alright, let's talk fish. We've got four main players in these waters, and each one is a prize in its own right. First up, rainbow trout. These beauties are the bread and butter of our rivers, known for their acrobatic fights and stunning colors. They're here year-round, but really shine in the spring and fall. Next, we've got steelhead - the sea-run version of rainbows and the holy grail for many anglers. These chrome-bright torpedoes will test your skills and your gear. Winter and summer runs give us opportunities almost all year. Chinook salmon, also known as kings, are the heavyweight champs of our rivers. Fall is prime time for these brutes, and hooking one is like trying to stop a freight train with a fly rod. Last but not least, cutthroat trout - the native char of our coastal streams. They might not get as big as the others, but what they lack in size they make up for in beauty and willingness to take a fly.

Top Catches This Season

Rainbow Trout: These guys are the perfect warm-up act. Averaging 12-18 inches, they're feisty fighters that'll keep you on your toes. Look for them in faster riffles and at the heads of pools. They're suckers for well-presented dry flies, but won't turn their nose up at a nymph or small streamer. Best time to target them is spring through fall, but you can find them year-round if you know where to look.

Steelhead Trout: Now we're talking. These sea-run rainbows are the stuff of legend. Averaging 6-12 pounds, with some topping 20, they're the ultimate test of an angler's skill. Winter-run fish show up from November through March, while summer-run steelhead peak from June to September. They love to hug the seams between fast and slow water, and nothing beats the heart-stopping strike of a steelhead hitting a swung fly or a drifted jig.

Chinook Salmon: The kings of the river, literally. Fall Chinook start showing up in September and stick around through November. These bruisers can top 40 pounds, and even an average 20-pounder will give you the fight of your life. They tend to hold in deeper pools and runs, especially around structure. Patience and persistence are key here - when you hook one, you'll know why they call 'em kings.

Cutthroat Trout: Our native char, and a favorite among fly anglers. These gorgeous fish, with their distinctive orange slashes under the jaw, average 8-14 inches in our streams. They're aggressive feeders and will often be the first to rise to a dry fly. Look for them in slower water, especially around undercut banks and woody debris. Spring and early summer are prime time for cutthroat, but you can find them year-round in coastal streams.

Time to Book Your Spot

Well, folks, if your fishing arm is itching and you're already dreaming of misty mornings on the river, it's time to lock in your date. Remember, we're talking about some of Oregon's best-kept secrets here, so spots fill up fast. Whether you're a seasoned pro looking to add some new water to your repertoire, or a newbie eager to learn the ropes, this trip is tailor-made for you. We provide all the gear you need, from rods to rafts, so all you need to bring is your sense of adventure (and maybe a lucky fishing hat). So what are you waiting for? Give us a call, shoot us an email, or carrier pigeon if that's your thing. Let's get you out on the water and into some fish. Trust me, once you experience the magic of these hidden rivers, you'll be hooked for life. See you on the water!