Premier Salmon & Steelhead Rafting in Oregon

Raft Fishing for Salmon and Steelhead in Oregon

Picture this: you're floating down some of Oregon's most productive waters in a brand-new 14-foot RecreTec raft, rod in hand, surrounded by the kind of scenery that makes you forget about everything back home. That's exactly what you'll get when you book a raft fishing trip with Matt Halseth Guide Service. We're talking about world-class fishing on the North Santiam, Nestucca, and Siletz rivers – three of the most renowned salmon and steelhead waters in the Pacific Northwest. This isn't your typical bank fishing experience. You'll cover serious water, hit prime holes that most anglers never see, and have shots at some of the biggest fish Oregon has to offer.

What to Expect on the Water

Every trip is built for two anglers max, which means you're getting personalized attention and plenty of elbow room. Matt knows these rivers like the back of his hand, and he'll position you in the sweet spots where salmon stage up and steelhead hold. The 2025 RecreTec raft is stable enough for easy casting but nimble enough to navigate the pocket water and runs where the big fish hang out. You'll drift through some mild whitewater – nothing crazy, just enough movement to keep things interesting and get your heart pumping between hookups. The beauty of raft fishing is the mobility. If the fish aren't cooperating in one stretch, we simply float down to the next honey hole. Weather can change fast out here, so come prepared with layers and rain gear. These Oregon rivers fish well in all conditions, and some of the best action happens when the weather gets a little moody.

Techniques & Gear Breakdown

Matt provides all the essential gear, but you're welcome to bring your favorite rod if you've got one. We're primarily drift fishing with eggs, sand shrimp, and spinners – time-tested methods that consistently produce on these waters. You'll learn to read the water, understand how fish move through different types of structure, and pick up techniques that'll make you a better angler long after the trip ends. The raft lets us approach fish from angles that shore anglers can't touch. We'll work deep pools with tight-line nymphing, swing flies through tailouts, and cast spinners into undercut banks. Matt adjusts tactics based on water conditions, season, and what the fish are telling us. Some days they want a subtle presentation; other days they'll slam anything that moves. The key is staying adaptable, and that's where having an experienced guide makes all the difference. You'll get hands-on instruction throughout the day, whether you're a complete beginner or looking to fine-tune your river fishing skills.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Rainbow trout are the bread and butter of these Oregon rivers, and they fight way above their weight class. Most range from 12 to 18 inches, but don't let the size fool you – these wild fish have serious attitude. They'll take flies, spinners, and bait with equal enthusiasm, especially during the spring and fall months when they're feeding heavily before and after spawning. What makes Oregon rainbows special is their acrobatics. They'll jump, run, and do everything possible to throw the hook. The best action typically happens from March through October, with peak periods during mayfly hatches in late spring.

Steelhead trout are the holy grail for many Pacific Northwest anglers, and for good reason. These sea-run rainbows return to Oregon rivers as chrome-bright torpedoes, averaging 6 to 12 pounds with occasional fish pushing 20-plus. Winter steelhead run from December through March, while summer fish show up June through September. They're notorious for long, powerful runs that'll test your drag system and your nerves. Hooking a fresh steelhead in current is like grabbing lightning – they'll strip line faster than you thought possible and jump clear out of the water multiple times. The North Santiam is particularly famous for its summer steelhead program, while the coastal rivers like the Nestucca and Siletz produce excellent winter fish.

Chinook salmon, also called king salmon, are the ultimate prize fish. These bruisers can exceed 30 pounds and will absolutely wreck unprepared anglers. Fall is prime time for Chinook, typically September through November, when mature fish return to spawn. They don't jump like steelhead, but they make up for it with sheer power and determination. A hooked Chinook will bulldoze straight downstream, test every knot you've tied, and give you the workout of a lifetime. The Siletz River has built a reputation as a top-rated Chinook destination, producing fish that become the stuff of legend.

Cutthroat trout round out the target species list, and they're absolute customer favorites for their willingness to bite and beautiful markings. Oregon's coastal cutthroat are particularly special – they'll move between fresh and saltwater throughout their lives, picking up size and strength along the way. Most run 14 to 20 inches, with distinctive red slashes under their jaws that give them their name. They're aggressive feeders that'll hit everything from dry flies to hardware, making them perfect for anglers who want consistent action. Peak cutthroat fishing happens during late spring and early summer when they're actively feeding in preparation for spawning season.

Time to Book Your Spot

Oregon's river fishing scene is trending upward, and prime dates fill up fast. Matt's been guiding these waters for years, building a reputation as one of the most reliable guides in the region. His local knowledge, combined with that new RecreTec raft and personalized approach, creates the kind of fishing experience that keeps people coming back season after season. Whether you're chasing your first steelhead, looking to land a trophy Chinook, or just want to spend a day catching wild trout in some of the most beautiful country you'll ever see, this trip delivers. Don't wait until the