Top-Rated Oregon Salmon Fishing with Matt Halseth

Reel in the Big Ones: Oregon River Fishing Adventure

Get ready to wet a line in some of Oregon's most iconic rivers! This small-group fishing trip with Matt Halseth Guide Service is your ticket to landing trophy salmon and steelhead in the heart of the Pacific Northwest. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just starting out, we'll put you on the fish and show you the ropes of river fishing, Oregon-style.

What to Expect on the Water

We're talking prime fishing grounds here, folks. Depending on where the bite is hot, we'll hit up the Willamette, North and South Santiam, McKenzie, or Nestucca rivers. Each one's got its own personality, but they all share one thing in common: they're loaded with hard-fighting salmon and steelhead. We'll pick our vessel based on water conditions – could be a nimble jet boat for getting into those tight spots, or a classic driftboat for a smooth float. Either way, you're in for a day of non-stop action and some of the best fishing Oregon has to offer.

Techniques to Land the Big Ones

Leave your gear at home because we've got you covered with all the bait, tackle, and safety equipment you'll need. We'll be using some tried-and-true river fishing techniques that'll give you the best shot at hooking into a monster. Bobber dogging is a local favorite – it's like finesse fishing on steroids. We'll also mix it up with some back trolling and back-bouncing bait. These methods are killer for enticing those wary fish holding in deep pools and behind boulders. Don't worry if you're new to these techniques; by the end of the day, you'll be working that rod like a pro.

Top Catches This Season

Our target species are the crown jewels of Pacific Northwest fishing: Chinook salmon and steelhead. Spring Chinook, or "springers" as we call 'em, are some of the best-eating fish you'll ever taste. Fall Chinook can grow to massive sizes – we're talking 30-pounders that'll test your arms and your drag. And let's not forget about steelhead – both summer and winter runs. These sea-run rainbow trout are pound-for-pound some of the hardest fighting fish in freshwater. When a steelhead hits and goes airborne, you'll be grinning from ear to ear.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Chinook Salmon: Known as "king salmon" for a reason, these brutes are the largest of the Pacific salmon species. In Oregon rivers, they average 10-30 pounds but can grow even bigger. Spring Chinook, arriving from March to June, are prized for their rich, oil-packed flesh. Fall Chinook, running from August to October, can reach monster sizes. They're aggressive biters and put up an epic fight, often making powerful runs and head-shaking leaps. The thrill of battling a Chinook in a river current is something every angler should experience.

Steelhead: Often called the "fish of a thousand casts," hooking into one of these chrome-bright beauties is well worth the effort. Oregon sees both summer and winter runs of steelhead, with summer fish typically arriving from May to October, and winter runs from November to April. They average 5-12 pounds but can push 20+ in some rivers. Steelhead are famous for their acrobatic fights, often clearing the water multiple times during a battle. Their tenacity and the challenge they present make them a bucket-list fish for many anglers.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

This ain't your average fishing trip, folks. We're talking world-class fishing in some of the most beautiful rivers you'll ever lay eyes on. One day you might be drifting through towering evergreens, the next you could be jet boating through rugged canyons. The scenery alone is worth the price of admission, but add in the chance to tangle with hard-fighting salmon and steelhead? That's the stuff fishing dreams are made of. Plus, with only one guest per trip, you're getting personalized attention and the flexibility to fish how you want, where you want. It's like having a good buddy show you their secret fishing spots – except this buddy knows every inch of these rivers like the back of their hand.

Time to Book Your Spot

Listen, if you're itching to get out on some of Oregon's best rivers and tangle with some truly impressive fish, this is your chance. Matt Halseth Guide Service has the local know-how, the right gear, and the passion for putting clients on fish. Whether you're looking to scratch that fishing itch, want to learn some new techniques, or just want to experience the beauty of Oregon's rivers, this trip's got you covered. The salmon and steelhead are waiting, and the rivers are calling. Don't let another season slip by – book your spot now and get ready for a fishing adventure you'll be talking about for years to come. Trust me, once you feel that first tug on your line, you'll be hooked for life!