Fishing Report
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2 nights lodging in riverside cabin, 1 day guided drift boat fishing trip on Chetco River for 2 people
Chetco Steelhead Lodging and Fishing Combo
Oregon and Alaska Fishing Report
Call (206) 388-8988 or email wildriversfishing@yahoo.com
Call (206) 388-8988 or email wildriversfishing@yahoo.com
We use quality Wright & McGill rods, Penn and Pflueger reels, Eagle Claw hooks, Worden's Lures products, and Pautzke cures.
Oregon Salmon and Steelhead Fishing, Alaska Salmon and Halibut Fishing
Chetco, Rogue, Smith River Salmon and Steelhead Fishing at its best!
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Oct. 11, 2010
After a slow start to the ocean trophy salmon season out of Brookings off the mouth of the Chetco, fishing kicked into high gear on Friday and again today. The weather was rough over the weekend. Today, we landed three large kings before 8 a.m., some of the best ocean salmon season I've ever seen off of Brookings. Salmon are really stacking up off the mouth of the river and when it opens in November fishing should be incredible. I have a handful of openings left in November, but call now if you want to get in on the action, as they are filling up. We are expecting one of the biggest fall salmon runs in recent years on the Chetco, Smith and Elk rivers. I will be on the Klamath for a few days this week, then back to the Chetco and Smith river estuaries. Once we get some rain, the Smith will open and it will be good fishing. November on the Chetco is showing signs of one of the best seasons in years. I can't wait!
To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
After a slow start to the ocean trophy salmon season out of Brookings off the mouth of the Chetco, fishing kicked into high gear on Friday and again today. The weather was rough over the weekend. Today, we landed three large kings before 8 a.m., some of the best ocean salmon season I've ever seen off of Brookings. Salmon are really stacking up off the mouth of the river and when it opens in November fishing should be incredible. I have a handful of openings left in November, but call now if you want to get in on the action, as they are filling up. We are expecting one of the biggest fall salmon runs in recent years on the Chetco, Smith and Elk rivers. I will be on the Klamath for a few days this week, then back to the Chetco and Smith river estuaries. Once we get some rain, the Smith will open and it will be good fishing. November on the Chetco is showing signs of one of the best seasons in years. I can't wait!
To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
Oct. 19, 2010
Salmon are stacking up in the Smith River tidewater, but fishing has been tough. There is a lot of pressure from bank anglers and the fly fishermen. But it looks like this year's run is going to be really good. Rain is expected here on the coast from Friday through Sunday. Fishing should be excellent when the Smith opens as expected next week above Rowdy Creek following the rains. I have just a few openings left this month, as well as a handful of openings for Chetco fall salmon next month. Tom from Sonoma caught a nice Smith River king today from my boat. Last week I spent a few more days on the upper Klamath. We got between four and eight fish a day.
We have an exciting new halibut derby for 2011. Last year there were 10 fish over 200 pounds caught from my boat. Call for details. To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
Salmon are stacking up in the Smith River tidewater, but fishing has been tough. There is a lot of pressure from bank anglers and the fly fishermen. But it looks like this year's run is going to be really good. Rain is expected here on the coast from Friday through Sunday. Fishing should be excellent when the Smith opens as expected next week above Rowdy Creek following the rains. I have just a few openings left this month, as well as a handful of openings for Chetco fall salmon next month. Tom from Sonoma caught a nice Smith River king today from my boat. Last week I spent a few more days on the upper Klamath. We got between four and eight fish a day.
We have an exciting new halibut derby for 2011. Last year there were 10 fish over 200 pounds caught from my boat. Call for details. To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
Oct. 23, 2010
Rain is falling on the coast and salmon are stacking up at the mouths of all the rivers. We fished the lower Smith River yesterday and my clients Jesse and Manuel caught their limits in less than an hour as we trolled anchovies. Salmon were rolling everywhere. The Smith should open above Rowdy Creek by Sunday with this current rain. I have a few openings in early November before things get really busy with the Nov. 6 Chetco River opener. ODFW netted the Chetco a few days ago to collect fish for the hatchery and there were a lot of salmon. Both the Chetco and Smith are shaping up to be great this fall, as predicted. I am booking a few other guides this fall as well as my boat so call to get in on the action.
To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
Rain is falling on the coast and salmon are stacking up at the mouths of all the rivers. We fished the lower Smith River yesterday and my clients Jesse and Manuel caught their limits in less than an hour as we trolled anchovies. Salmon were rolling everywhere. The Smith should open above Rowdy Creek by Sunday with this current rain. I have a few openings in early November before things get really busy with the Nov. 6 Chetco River opener. ODFW netted the Chetco a few days ago to collect fish for the hatchery and there were a lot of salmon. Both the Chetco and Smith are shaping up to be great this fall, as predicted. I am booking a few other guides this fall as well as my boat so call to get in on the action.
To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
Oct. 26, 2010
The Smith is open above Rowdy Creek and fishing good! Yesterday we went four for nine. Kept two nice fish, lost a really big one (likely over 50) at the boat (new barbless hook rule this year). The river looks to be in prime shape for rest of week. I have a few openings still next week before we switch over to the Chetco.
Right now we are getting them on plugs, mainly sardine-wrapped MagLips. Today the river should be low enough to back-bounce roe in a few spots.
People are now starting to call to book December, Janaury and February steelhead dates. If you have a specific date in mind, call now to reserve it.
To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
The Smith is open above Rowdy Creek and fishing good! Yesterday we went four for nine. Kept two nice fish, lost a really big one (likely over 50) at the boat (new barbless hook rule this year). The river looks to be in prime shape for rest of week. I have a few openings still next week before we switch over to the Chetco.
Right now we are getting them on plugs, mainly sardine-wrapped MagLips. Today the river should be low enough to back-bounce roe in a few spots.
People are now starting to call to book December, Janaury and February steelhead dates. If you have a specific date in mind, call now to reserve it.
To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
Nov. 1, 2010
The Chetco opened on Saturday, a week early, and fishing was great. Rich and Johnny took home some great salmon and enjoyed more hookups than we could keep track of. On Sunday, the river was on the rise and was getting muddy and full of leaves. Weston and Katie still managed to catch a big fish in the high water. Late last week we were on the Smith and fishing was fair to good. There has been a lot of rain, which has the fishing moving all over the place. A lot of fish are now showing up at the hatchery. Doyle, in the photo to the left, caught a nice Smith king on Thursday.
I have a limited number of openings this month for Chetco, Smith, Elk and Sixes river salmon. There should be a lot of fish in all the rivers the entire month.
Steelhead dates also have begun to fill, so let me know if you have a specific date in mind for peak season steelhead in January and February.
To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
The Chetco opened on Saturday, a week early, and fishing was great. Rich and Johnny took home some great salmon and enjoyed more hookups than we could keep track of. On Sunday, the river was on the rise and was getting muddy and full of leaves. Weston and Katie still managed to catch a big fish in the high water. Late last week we were on the Smith and fishing was fair to good. There has been a lot of rain, which has the fishing moving all over the place. A lot of fish are now showing up at the hatchery. Doyle, in the photo to the left, caught a nice Smith king on Thursday.
I have a limited number of openings this month for Chetco, Smith, Elk and Sixes river salmon. There should be a lot of fish in all the rivers the entire month.
Steelhead dates also have begun to fill, so let me know if you have a specific date in mind for peak season steelhead in January and February.
To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
Nov. 4, 2010
I just had Nov. 8 and 9 come open in my boat because of a medical emergency with one of my good customer's family. We're thinking about you and praying for you Rich.
Salmon fishing remains steady on the Chetco. We got two yesterday, including a nice bright 44-pounder. The estuary has suddenly picked up and there are a lot of fish entering the lower river. Rain is expected this weekend. The lower Smith turned on today, with a great bobber and eggs/sandshrimp bite at the Sand Hole and Piling Hole. The rain will help makes things ever better there too.
Aside from the Nov. 8 and 9 opening, my next opening is Nov. 22. Call now to get in on what has been a great salmon season and will continue to be good through the month. Aside from the Chetco and Smith, we'll begin hitting the Elk with the first big rain in mid-November.
To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
I just had Nov. 8 and 9 come open in my boat because of a medical emergency with one of my good customer's family. We're thinking about you and praying for you Rich.
Salmon fishing remains steady on the Chetco. We got two yesterday, including a nice bright 44-pounder. The estuary has suddenly picked up and there are a lot of fish entering the lower river. Rain is expected this weekend. The lower Smith turned on today, with a great bobber and eggs/sandshrimp bite at the Sand Hole and Piling Hole. The rain will help makes things ever better there too.
Aside from the Nov. 8 and 9 opening, my next opening is Nov. 22. Call now to get in on what has been a great salmon season and will continue to be good through the month. Aside from the Chetco and Smith, we'll begin hitting the Elk with the first big rain in mid-November.
To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
Nov. 9, 2010
We went from low, clear conditions to blown out conditions to perfect water levels over the last three days. When the Chetco was low, we were scratching out a few fish a day, and also getting into some fish on the Smith tidewater. We hooked one nice salmon Sunday on the Smith as it was blowing out. Yesterday was perfect on the Chetco. Chuck and Wes enjoyed hot action all day, hooking six and taking home some chromers. The Chetco has a lot of salmon in it, and many of them are big. This has been the best season for big fish in a long time. The Elk is now fishable and will be another choice for the rest of the salmon season. I have a few openings late in the month for Chetco and Smith kings, and several dates still available for salmon and early steelhead in December for the Elk, Chetco and Smith rivers.
To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
We went from low, clear conditions to blown out conditions to perfect water levels over the last three days. When the Chetco was low, we were scratching out a few fish a day, and also getting into some fish on the Smith tidewater. We hooked one nice salmon Sunday on the Smith as it was blowing out. Yesterday was perfect on the Chetco. Chuck and Wes enjoyed hot action all day, hooking six and taking home some chromers. The Chetco has a lot of salmon in it, and many of them are big. This has been the best season for big fish in a long time. The Elk is now fishable and will be another choice for the rest of the salmon season. I have a few openings late in the month for Chetco and Smith kings, and several dates still available for salmon and early steelhead in December for the Elk, Chetco and Smith rivers.
To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
Nov. 19, 2010
Lots of rain is expected to fall over the next three days on the coast. We should see a strong finish to the salmon run on the Smith and Chetco, and fishing should really pick up on the Elk. There are currently large numbers of salmon on the lower Smith. We had a couple really good days on the lower river. The Chetco kicked back into gear today with the increased flows from the rain. I have openings in December for late season salmon and early steelhead, as well peak season on the Elk River for winter king salmon. To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
Lots of rain is expected to fall over the next three days on the coast. We should see a strong finish to the salmon run on the Smith and Chetco, and fishing should really pick up on the Elk. There are currently large numbers of salmon on the lower Smith. We had a couple really good days on the lower river. The Chetco kicked back into gear today with the increased flows from the rain. I have openings in December for late season salmon and early steelhead, as well peak season on the Elk River for winter king salmon. To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
Nov. 25, 2010
Happy Thanksgiving! Salmon fishing continues to be good on the Smith, but is winding down on the Chetco. A handful of steelhead are now being caught daily on both rivers. We caught our first steelhead of the season yesterday. A couple of really big kings were caught earlier in the week on the Smith. I have openings in early December for salmon/steelhead combos. To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
Happy Thanksgiving! Salmon fishing continues to be good on the Smith, but is winding down on the Chetco. A handful of steelhead are now being caught daily on both rivers. We caught our first steelhead of the season yesterday. A couple of really big kings were caught earlier in the week on the Smith. I have openings in early December for salmon/steelhead combos. To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
Dec. 1, 2010
The recent rain brought a bunch more kings into the Chetco and Smith rivers. We also caught a surprise coho, which was released, and are seeing more steelhead. We'll be fishing kings on the Elk through December, and concentrate on steelhead on the Chetco and Smith now that they are here.
To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
The recent rain brought a bunch more kings into the Chetco and Smith rivers. We also caught a surprise coho, which was released, and are seeing more steelhead. We'll be fishing kings on the Elk through December, and concentrate on steelhead on the Chetco and Smith now that they are here.
To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
Dec. 8, 2010
Fresh salmon continue to show up in the Smith and Chetco rivers, although fishing for them has slowed. There will be a chance of hooking fresh kings through the end of the month. We are seeing a lot more steelhead show up in the catch, especially bright hatchery fish. Matt shows off a nice hatchery steelie caught above Loeb on the Chetco. Mike caught the chromer salmon at Ice Box. I have a few openings this month for salmon/steelhead combo trips.
To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
Fresh salmon continue to show up in the Smith and Chetco rivers, although fishing for them has slowed. There will be a chance of hooking fresh kings through the end of the month. We are seeing a lot more steelhead show up in the catch, especially bright hatchery fish. Matt shows off a nice hatchery steelie caught above Loeb on the Chetco. Mike caught the chromer salmon at Ice Box. I have a few openings this month for salmon/steelhead combo trips.
To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
Dec. 15, 2010
Before heavy rains over the weekend, the Elk and Sixes were will kicking out some nice king salmon, like the one Chaz is holding. But by Tuesday, the Chetco has risen to over 18,000 cfs and the Smith swelled to 30,000 cfs. Tonight the Chetco was back below 8,000 cfs and may fish by Friday morning. The Smith was turning green this evening and may fish by Thursday afternoon. Except to see good numbers of steelhead in both rivers when they drop back into shape. Steelhead fishing will likely be good from here on out, clear through February or early March. I have a handful of openings in late December, and several days to choose from in January. Call now if you have a specific date in mind before it's taken.
To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
Before heavy rains over the weekend, the Elk and Sixes were will kicking out some nice king salmon, like the one Chaz is holding. But by Tuesday, the Chetco has risen to over 18,000 cfs and the Smith swelled to 30,000 cfs. Tonight the Chetco was back below 8,000 cfs and may fish by Friday morning. The Smith was turning green this evening and may fish by Thursday afternoon. Except to see good numbers of steelhead in both rivers when they drop back into shape. Steelhead fishing will likely be good from here on out, clear through February or early March. I have a handful of openings in late December, and several days to choose from in January. Call now if you have a specific date in mind before it's taken.
To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
Dec. 20, 2010
Steelhead season is now in full swing on the Smith and Chetco rivers. There are a lot hatchery fish in both systems right now, several times more than last year. Rowdy Creek Hatchery on the Smith River just had a record return of fall king salmon, and now the hatchery steelhead return is well above average, a good sign for anglers coming in late December and January and February. We've had a lot of rain this month, and the rivers have been high and off-colored, but each time the drop to fishable levels, it has been good. It will keep getting better from Christmas well into February.
I have some openings in January and February. Call or e-mail if you want to reserve a specific date. It looks like this is going to be one of our better seasons in recent years. To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
Steelhead season is now in full swing on the Smith and Chetco rivers. There are a lot hatchery fish in both systems right now, several times more than last year. Rowdy Creek Hatchery on the Smith River just had a record return of fall king salmon, and now the hatchery steelhead return is well above average, a good sign for anglers coming in late December and January and February. We've had a lot of rain this month, and the rivers have been high and off-colored, but each time the drop to fishable levels, it has been good. It will keep getting better from Christmas well into February.
I have some openings in January and February. Call or e-mail if you want to reserve a specific date. It looks like this is going to be one of our better seasons in recent years. To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
Dec. 26, 2010
I hope everyone had a great Christmas. Steelhead fishing has been good the last few days on the Chetco and Smith. The rivers began fishing good for plunkers on Thursday and Friday was the first day in about a week the river was low enough for effective drift boat fishing. We landed two nice steelhead on Friday, and had several more chances, and yesterday we hooked four. One of the fish we lost was in the 20-pound range. Winter is off to a wet start, but with all the water, there are a lot of steelhead in all the rivers. We will be focusing on the Chetco and Smith in January, but also will fish the Coquille, Rogue, Elk and Sixes, depending on the conditions. I still have some openings.
To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
I hope everyone had a great Christmas. Steelhead fishing has been good the last few days on the Chetco and Smith. The rivers began fishing good for plunkers on Thursday and Friday was the first day in about a week the river was low enough for effective drift boat fishing. We landed two nice steelhead on Friday, and had several more chances, and yesterday we hooked four. One of the fish we lost was in the 20-pound range. Winter is off to a wet start, but with all the water, there are a lot of steelhead in all the rivers. We will be focusing on the Chetco and Smith in January, but also will fish the Coquille, Rogue, Elk and Sixes, depending on the conditions. I still have some openings.
To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
Jan. 1, 2011
Happy New Year! After several days of heavy rain, we finally are getting some dry weather on the coast. The Smith dropped into shape for side-drifting on Friday, while the Chetco started fishing today. With good weather expected for the next few days, fishing should be prime well into next week. We had a great day on the Smith Friday, although we didn't land any hatchery fish. Seemed like most of the boats ended up catching and releasing wild fish. I saw one fish over 20 pounds caught and released. You can only keep hatchery fish on the Smith, while one wild fish a day can be kept on the Chetco as part of the two-fish limit. As of today, I have Jan. 2-7, 9, 10, 16, 19, 21, 23-30 open. These are all prime dates for steelhead fishing on the Chetco, Smith, Coquille, Elk and Sixes rivers. Call if you'd like to get in on what has been a superb steelhead season so far. To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
Happy New Year! After several days of heavy rain, we finally are getting some dry weather on the coast. The Smith dropped into shape for side-drifting on Friday, while the Chetco started fishing today. With good weather expected for the next few days, fishing should be prime well into next week. We had a great day on the Smith Friday, although we didn't land any hatchery fish. Seemed like most of the boats ended up catching and releasing wild fish. I saw one fish over 20 pounds caught and released. You can only keep hatchery fish on the Smith, while one wild fish a day can be kept on the Chetco as part of the two-fish limit. As of today, I have Jan. 2-7, 9, 10, 16, 19, 21, 23-30 open. These are all prime dates for steelhead fishing on the Chetco, Smith, Coquille, Elk and Sixes rivers. Call if you'd like to get in on what has been a superb steelhead season so far. To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
Jan. 3, 2011
Quick report: Chetco River steelhead fishing is one fire. We hooked six and landed five yesterday, and got three the day before. Water level is great, and there are a lot of fish. To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
Quick report: Chetco River steelhead fishing is one fire. We hooked six and landed five yesterday, and got three the day before. Water level is great, and there are a lot of fish. To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
Jan. 6, 2011
The past week has been pretty incredible on the Chetco River. We've been averaging six hookups and three fish landed a day, ranging from 8 to 16 pounds. The river has been crowded, but for the most part we've been able to get away from the pack of boats and still find some fish and some peace and quiet by doing two drifts each day. Ken and Deb took home two nice hatchery fish this week, while Gary and John kept a pair of hatchery fish and a nice wild one. Greg and Gary landed four, and last a few more. Rain is expected next week, and should give fishing a nice boost. I have some openings still, call to get in on this great start to steelhead season. To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
The past week has been pretty incredible on the Chetco River. We've been averaging six hookups and three fish landed a day, ranging from 8 to 16 pounds. The river has been crowded, but for the most part we've been able to get away from the pack of boats and still find some fish and some peace and quiet by doing two drifts each day. Ken and Deb took home two nice hatchery fish this week, while Gary and John kept a pair of hatchery fish and a nice wild one. Greg and Gary landed four, and last a few more. Rain is expected next week, and should give fishing a nice boost. I have some openings still, call to get in on this great start to steelhead season. To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
Jan. 16, 2011
We've fished the Chetco, Smith and Elk the past 10 days and have found fish on all three rivers. The Chetco was fishing really well before the latest rain, even when it was low and clear. We hooked five to seven fish a day, with a few slower days mixed in. Mike caught a beautiful 17-pound hatchery steelhead on the 12th. He landed several and lost some as well. High water found us on the Elk River Jan. 14 and Nate, Jeff and Marty landed two. After today's rain we are expecting some clear weather and this weekend should be prime. Right now I have Jan. 23-26 and 28-30 open. I also have some February dates available.To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
We've fished the Chetco, Smith and Elk the past 10 days and have found fish on all three rivers. The Chetco was fishing really well before the latest rain, even when it was low and clear. We hooked five to seven fish a day, with a few slower days mixed in. Mike caught a beautiful 17-pound hatchery steelhead on the 12th. He landed several and lost some as well. High water found us on the Elk River Jan. 14 and Nate, Jeff and Marty landed two. After today's rain we are expecting some clear weather and this weekend should be prime. Right now I have Jan. 23-26 and 28-30 open. I also have some February dates available.To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
Jan. 23, 2011
Steelhead fishing has been anywhere from excellent to fair the past week on the Chetco. Boat traffic was extremely high late in the week, which took its toll on catch rates, even though there are a lot of steelhead in the river right now. With other rivers falling back into shape, the crowds should thin in the next few days and we should see fishing improve. We were on the Smith at the beginning of the week, and found some fish. Once the Chetco fell back into shape, fishing was great, and then got a little tougher late in the week. We are still finding a mix of hatchery and wild fish. We were able to release some nice wild fish at the beginning of the week and still get hatchery fish down low to make sure customers left with fresh steelhead fillets. I have Jan. 28, Feb. 1, 2, 7, 8, 10, 11, 14, 16, 22, 23, and 28 open.
To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
Steelhead fishing has been anywhere from excellent to fair the past week on the Chetco. Boat traffic was extremely high late in the week, which took its toll on catch rates, even though there are a lot of steelhead in the river right now. With other rivers falling back into shape, the crowds should thin in the next few days and we should see fishing improve. We were on the Smith at the beginning of the week, and found some fish. Once the Chetco fell back into shape, fishing was great, and then got a little tougher late in the week. We are still finding a mix of hatchery and wild fish. We were able to release some nice wild fish at the beginning of the week and still get hatchery fish down low to make sure customers left with fresh steelhead fillets. I have Jan. 28, Feb. 1, 2, 7, 8, 10, 11, 14, 16, 22, 23, and 28 open.
To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
Feb. 2, 2011
Despite the low, clear water, we found some nice steelhead the past week on the Chetco River. Ken from Texas landed a beautiful 17-pounder, while Val, Greg, Matt, Wayne, Sue and Kim also got in on the action. We caught a number of fish on plugs, which was fun, and got some side-drifting roe as well. Still a good number of hatchery fish in the river. We need some rain pretty bad right now, and that looks to be at least a week away. I'll be at the Eugene sports show this weekend, then back to the river next week. I still have a few openings for later this month. Should be great after the next rain, with all those fish wanting to come into the river. To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
Despite the low, clear water, we found some nice steelhead the past week on the Chetco River. Ken from Texas landed a beautiful 17-pounder, while Val, Greg, Matt, Wayne, Sue and Kim also got in on the action. We caught a number of fish on plugs, which was fun, and got some side-drifting roe as well. Still a good number of hatchery fish in the river. We need some rain pretty bad right now, and that looks to be at least a week away. I'll be at the Eugene sports show this weekend, then back to the river next week. I still have a few openings for later this month. Should be great after the next rain, with all those fish wanting to come into the river. To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
For 2010 Fishing Report archives, click here.
For 2008, 2007 Fishing Report archives, click here.
For 2009 Fishing Report archives, click here.
For 2010 Fishing Report archives, click here.
Feb. 11, 2011
We are expecting quite a bit of rain Monday and Tuesday, which will give steelhead fishing on the Chetco a major boost. There are a lot of fish in the river, but it's been tough with the low, clear water. We hooked two on my last trip and landed one nice steelhead. Will be much better after the rain. I have Feb. 21, 22, 23 and 24 open, as well as some March dates. I'll also be at the upcoming sports shows in Roseborg and Medford. Eugene was a big success. To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
We are expecting quite a bit of rain Monday and Tuesday, which will give steelhead fishing on the Chetco a major boost. There are a lot of fish in the river, but it's been tough with the low, clear water. We hooked two on my last trip and landed one nice steelhead. Will be much better after the rain. I have Feb. 21, 22, 23 and 24 open, as well as some March dates. I'll also be at the upcoming sports shows in Roseborg and Medford. Eugene was a big success. To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
Feb. 23, 2011
Recent rains brought a bunch of new steelhead into the Chetco, including a new batch of hatchery fish. We got three yesterday on plugs, while the day before side-drifting roe worked best. Fishing should remain good well into March. The Elk and Sixes also are providing good fishing for steelhead after each rain. I'm at the Medford show this weekend. So far there has already been a lot of interest in this fall's salmon fishing on the Smith and Chetco. Dates are already filling. Call if you have a specific date in mind since it looks like we are going to have another great salmon run. To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
Recent rains brought a bunch of new steelhead into the Chetco, including a new batch of hatchery fish. We got three yesterday on plugs, while the day before side-drifting roe worked best. Fishing should remain good well into March. The Elk and Sixes also are providing good fishing for steelhead after each rain. I'm at the Medford show this weekend. So far there has already been a lot of interest in this fall's salmon fishing on the Smith and Chetco. Dates are already filling. Call if you have a specific date in mind since it looks like we are going to have another great salmon run. To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
March 3, 2011
We are still catching steelhead on the Chetco, Elk and Sixes rivers, and with a bunch of rain to begin March, fishing should be strong for at least a couple weeks. Now is when we see those great big natives on the northern rivers. The first spring salmon has already been caught on the Rogue, and we'll be using the jet boat to catch them near the end of the month. Lots of opportunities to fish right now! To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
We are still catching steelhead on the Chetco, Elk and Sixes rivers, and with a bunch of rain to begin March, fishing should be strong for at least a couple weeks. Now is when we see those great big natives on the northern rivers. The first spring salmon has already been caught on the Rogue, and we'll be using the jet boat to catch them near the end of the month. Lots of opportunities to fish right now! To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
Chetco River Fishing Guides Oregon Salmon Fishing Oregon Steelhead Fishing Rogue Bay Salmon Fishing Brookings Charter Boats Southern Oregon Fishing Reports Oregon Fishing Trips Oregon Lingcod Fishing Oregon Drift Boat Fishing Trips Seward Alaska Halibut Charters
Smith River California Fishing Guides Klamath River Fishing Guides Tillamook Bay Fishing Guides Oregon Trophy Salmon Rogue River Fishing Guides Klamath River Fishing Guides Smith River Fishing Guides Rogue River Spring Salmon Smith River Fishing Reports
Elk Rivers Fishing Guides Sixes River Fishing Guides Elk River Oregon Fishing
Smith River California Fishing Guides Klamath River Fishing Guides Tillamook Bay Fishing Guides Oregon Trophy Salmon Rogue River Fishing Guides Klamath River Fishing Guides Smith River Fishing Guides Rogue River Spring Salmon Smith River Fishing Reports
Elk Rivers Fishing Guides Sixes River Fishing Guides Elk River Oregon Fishing
March 31, 2011
Steelhead fishing closed today on the Chetco, Elk and Sixes rivers. It was a great steelhead season, especially the first half. March, however, saw lots of high water and rain and to number of days the rivers were fishable was extremely limited. Spring salmon are now being caught in the lower Rogue near Gold Beach and we have several trips booked in April. In last March, I made my annual trip to the Columbia River to fish with my good friend Buzz Ramsey. We caught three springers the first day there and two the second. Bookings are coming in for Klamath River, Smith River and Chetco River fall salmon, as well as the Brookings trophy season in October. Call now if you have a specific date in mind, as it looks like we will be full by fall. To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
Steelhead fishing closed today on the Chetco, Elk and Sixes rivers. It was a great steelhead season, especially the first half. March, however, saw lots of high water and rain and to number of days the rivers were fishable was extremely limited. Spring salmon are now being caught in the lower Rogue near Gold Beach and we have several trips booked in April. In last March, I made my annual trip to the Columbia River to fish with my good friend Buzz Ramsey. We caught three springers the first day there and two the second. Bookings are coming in for Klamath River, Smith River and Chetco River fall salmon, as well as the Brookings trophy season in October. Call now if you have a specific date in mind, as it looks like we will be full by fall. To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
Operating Under Special Use Permit within the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest for the Wild and Scenic Chetco River.
Operating Under Special Use Permit within Six Rivers National Forest for Smith River National Recreation Area.
Operating Under Special Use Permit within Six Rivers National Forest for Smith River National Recreation Area.
April 6, 2011
Spring salmon fishing made a dramatic improvement on the lower Rogue River early this week before the river got high and muddy again today. Looks like it will be in good shape again for the weekend and the next few weeks should be prime. There are still some dates available this month. The average was two fish per boat on Monday and a fish or two again on Tuesday. These hard-fighting salmon are the best eating of the year.
The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife will soon be setting the fall salmon regulations. The ocean trophy season out of Brookings in October will start Oct. 1 and run through at least the 12th and possibly the 16th. Call now if you want to reserve a date for this extremely popular season. Bookings also are coming in for the October and November drift boat salmon trips on the Chetco and Smith. If you have a specific date in mind, get it on the calendar now as interest is again high in this popular fishery. I'll be fishing the Rogue through the end of the month, and then head north to Alaska in May for the summer halibut and salmon season there. To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
Spring salmon fishing made a dramatic improvement on the lower Rogue River early this week before the river got high and muddy again today. Looks like it will be in good shape again for the weekend and the next few weeks should be prime. There are still some dates available this month. The average was two fish per boat on Monday and a fish or two again on Tuesday. These hard-fighting salmon are the best eating of the year.
The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife will soon be setting the fall salmon regulations. The ocean trophy season out of Brookings in October will start Oct. 1 and run through at least the 12th and possibly the 16th. Call now if you want to reserve a date for this extremely popular season. Bookings also are coming in for the October and November drift boat salmon trips on the Chetco and Smith. If you have a specific date in mind, get it on the calendar now as interest is again high in this popular fishery. I'll be fishing the Rogue through the end of the month, and then head north to Alaska in May for the summer halibut and salmon season there. To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
April 25, 2011
Spring salmon fishing has been fair on the lower Rogue River near Gold Beach, Oregon, the past week. On our last trip we landed two and had three more takedowns. The river is coming back into shape so this week should be improved fishing. The jet boat has a nice top, so at least we have been staying dry while waiting for the next bite.
To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
Spring salmon fishing has been fair on the lower Rogue River near Gold Beach, Oregon, the past week. On our last trip we landed two and had three more takedowns. The river is coming back into shape so this week should be improved fishing. The jet boat has a nice top, so at least we have been staying dry while waiting for the next bite.
To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
May 4, 2011
The Rogue River near Gold Beach, Oregon, had some of its best fishing so far this year for spring Chinook last Friday and Saturday. Fishing was good around Elephant Rock, especially late in the afternoon. Ocean fishing out of Brookings also has been good.
I'm heading to Alaska in a few weeks, and have been busy booking for fall kings on the Chetco, Smith and Klamath. If you would like to fish the October trophy ocean salmon season out of Brookings at the mouth of the Chetco, I currently have Oct. 1, 7, 9, 10, 11 and 12 open. For Chetco River kings in November, I have Nov. 12, 13, 15, 17, 18, 19, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27 and 28 still available. These dates are all prime for big fall salmon on the Chetco, which is expecting another big run this year, around 135 percent of normal.
To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
The Rogue River near Gold Beach, Oregon, had some of its best fishing so far this year for spring Chinook last Friday and Saturday. Fishing was good around Elephant Rock, especially late in the afternoon. Ocean fishing out of Brookings also has been good.
I'm heading to Alaska in a few weeks, and have been busy booking for fall kings on the Chetco, Smith and Klamath. If you would like to fish the October trophy ocean salmon season out of Brookings at the mouth of the Chetco, I currently have Oct. 1, 7, 9, 10, 11 and 12 open. For Chetco River kings in November, I have Nov. 12, 13, 15, 17, 18, 19, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27 and 28 still available. These dates are all prime for big fall salmon on the Chetco, which is expecting another big run this year, around 135 percent of normal.
To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
May 20, 2011
Spring salmon fishing has slowed considerably on the Rogue River near Gold Beach, although a handful of fish are being caught each day. The ocean out of Brookings has been good for this time of year. Catches also have been good out of Crescent City and Eureka, which should translate into good fishing in the rivers this fall.
I head to Alaska next week to begin halibut and salmon charters.
I still have a few openings left for Klamath River salmon in September, as well as the trophy ocean salmon season out of Brookings in October, known as the Chetco Bubble Fishery.
To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
Spring salmon fishing has slowed considerably on the Rogue River near Gold Beach, although a handful of fish are being caught each day. The ocean out of Brookings has been good for this time of year. Catches also have been good out of Crescent City and Eureka, which should translate into good fishing in the rivers this fall.
I head to Alaska next week to begin halibut and salmon charters.
I still have a few openings left for Klamath River salmon in September, as well as the trophy ocean salmon season out of Brookings in October, known as the Chetco Bubble Fishery.
To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
June 20, 2011
Salmon and halibut fishing has been great near Glacier Bay out of Gustavus, Alaska. The king fishing has been the best in years, with limits daily. The silvers have also made a strong early showing.
Dates have filled quickly for the fall salmon fishing back in Oregon, but I still have a few openings for Chetco, Smith, Klamath, Rogue, Elk and Sixes river fall fishing. To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
Salmon and halibut fishing has been great near Glacier Bay out of Gustavus, Alaska. The king fishing has been the best in years, with limits daily. The silvers have also made a strong early showing.
Dates have filled quickly for the fall salmon fishing back in Oregon, but I still have a few openings for Chetco, Smith, Klamath, Rogue, Elk and Sixes river fall fishing. To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
July 18, 2011
We've started to catch a lot more trophy halibut in recent days, including a 90 incher (estimated 405 pounds) and 84 inchers (over 300 pounds). We're still catching kings, but's it's not was hot as it was earlier in the season.
I'll be back in Oregon in September to fish the Rogue Bay and Klamath River to begin the fall seasons. To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
We've started to catch a lot more trophy halibut in recent days, including a 90 incher (estimated 405 pounds) and 84 inchers (over 300 pounds). We're still catching kings, but's it's not was hot as it was earlier in the season.
I'll be back in Oregon in September to fish the Rogue Bay and Klamath River to begin the fall seasons. To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
Aug. 5, 2011
Fishing for salmon and halibut in Alaska continues to be great. Limits of halibut everyday, and still some nice kings around, plus lots of silvers.
Back in Oregon, fishing on the Rogue Bay in Gold Beach kicked into high gear this past week. Fishing should now be good on the lower Rogue River through September. I still have a few openings in mid-September before I start focusing on the Upper Klamath at the end of September. November has filled quickly for Chetco and Smith river fall kings, but I still have a few dates open, plus some of the guides I work with have some peak season dates available. We are expecting big runs of kings on the Chetco, Smith, Elk and Sixes rivers, so call now to get on the schedule since dates will be full by the time the fish arrive. I am one of the few guides with a special use permit for the upper section of the Chetco, so that's a great place to fish away from the crowds. To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
Fishing for salmon and halibut in Alaska continues to be great. Limits of halibut everyday, and still some nice kings around, plus lots of silvers.
Back in Oregon, fishing on the Rogue Bay in Gold Beach kicked into high gear this past week. Fishing should now be good on the lower Rogue River through September. I still have a few openings in mid-September before I start focusing on the Upper Klamath at the end of September. November has filled quickly for Chetco and Smith river fall kings, but I still have a few dates open, plus some of the guides I work with have some peak season dates available. We are expecting big runs of kings on the Chetco, Smith, Elk and Sixes rivers, so call now to get on the schedule since dates will be full by the time the fish arrive. I am one of the few guides with a special use permit for the upper section of the Chetco, so that's a great place to fish away from the crowds. To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
Sept. 16, 2011
I'm back in Oregon after another great season in Alaska. We did one final trip over the weekend with stock up on some fish to bring home and landed several nice halibut.
The first salmon of the season was caught in the lower Chetco Sept. 10. I heard of three caught the day before yesterday. Fishing should be good in the estuary by the end of next week. Salmon also are being caught in the Rogue Bay and Coquille Bay. Coos Bay has been the best bet the past week. I have just a few dates left for fall salmon on the Chetco and Smith rivers. I am also booking other guides, so there is a good opportunity to get in on the action for what is expected to be great fishing this fall on the Southern Oregon coast as well as the Smith River in Northern California.
Peak season steelhead dates in January and February also are beginning to go, so let me know if you have a specific date in mind.
To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
I'm back in Oregon after another great season in Alaska. We did one final trip over the weekend with stock up on some fish to bring home and landed several nice halibut.
The first salmon of the season was caught in the lower Chetco Sept. 10. I heard of three caught the day before yesterday. Fishing should be good in the estuary by the end of next week. Salmon also are being caught in the Rogue Bay and Coquille Bay. Coos Bay has been the best bet the past week. I have just a few dates left for fall salmon on the Chetco and Smith rivers. I am also booking other guides, so there is a good opportunity to get in on the action for what is expected to be great fishing this fall on the Southern Oregon coast as well as the Smith River in Northern California.
Peak season steelhead dates in January and February also are beginning to go, so let me know if you have a specific date in mind.
To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
Sept. 27, 2011
I've spent the past week on the Rogue Bay, Coquille River and Coos Bay. All are producing nice salmon at this time. We hooked four and landed three kings on the lower Rogue yesterday, and two the day before. The Coquille and Coos were hot a week ago, but slowed. We still managed to have some nice salmon and crab combos. All of the kings have been chrome bright. Three to five kings a day are now being landed on the Chetco River estuary. I will run trips on the Chetco estuary Friday and Saturday and then focus on the ocean bubble season out of Brookings Oct. 1-12 for trophy kings. I have some openings in mid-October for the Chetco and Smith river estuaries. We saw good fishing last year on both rivers in mid-October. A few dates are left for November drift boat trips on the Chetco and Smith. I also have some openings in December for the Elk and Sixes rivers. To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
I've spent the past week on the Rogue Bay, Coquille River and Coos Bay. All are producing nice salmon at this time. We hooked four and landed three kings on the lower Rogue yesterday, and two the day before. The Coquille and Coos were hot a week ago, but slowed. We still managed to have some nice salmon and crab combos. All of the kings have been chrome bright. Three to five kings a day are now being landed on the Chetco River estuary. I will run trips on the Chetco estuary Friday and Saturday and then focus on the ocean bubble season out of Brookings Oct. 1-12 for trophy kings. I have some openings in mid-October for the Chetco and Smith river estuaries. We saw good fishing last year on both rivers in mid-October. A few dates are left for November drift boat trips on the Chetco and Smith. I also have some openings in December for the Elk and Sixes rivers. To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
Oct. 8, 2011
The Smith River opened above Rowdy Creek last Wednesday and we found some nice salmon in the lower section of the river from Ruby down. Another shot of rain is expected Monday and we could be back on the Smith by mid week. The Chetco bubble season also is open and fishing has been fair. We've found some nice fish. I have a few openings the second half of October for Smith River and Chetco estuary fall kings. To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
The Smith River opened above Rowdy Creek last Wednesday and we found some nice salmon in the lower section of the river from Ruby down. Another shot of rain is expected Monday and we could be back on the Smith by mid week. The Chetco bubble season also is open and fishing has been fair. We've found some nice fish. I have a few openings the second half of October for Smith River and Chetco estuary fall kings. To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
Sept. 30, 2011
Fishing on the Rogue Bay has been good the past week. We have found a nice mix of king salmon and wild and hatchery coho salmon. A 49-pound king was caught early in the week. There have been a few more reports of 50-pounders as well. We'll be fishing the bay in October as well, along with the Chetco bubble season and the Smith River. Rain is forecasted next week, so there is a chance we'll get a few days in on the Smith River for big fall kings there. To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
Fishing on the Rogue Bay has been good the past week. We have found a nice mix of king salmon and wild and hatchery coho salmon. A 49-pound king was caught early in the week. There have been a few more reports of 50-pounders as well. We'll be fishing the bay in October as well, along with the Chetco bubble season and the Smith River. Rain is forecasted next week, so there is a chance we'll get a few days in on the Smith River for big fall kings there. To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
Oct. 16, 2011
Salmon fishing on the Smith River in Northern California was great for a couple of days last week following the rain we received at the beginning of the week. We got limits of nice big, bright fish, and let some smaller ones go. The Smith is now low and clear again and fishing has slowed, but with big tides on their way we should start to see a lot of fish at the Sand Hole and mouth of Rowdy Creek soon. Some salmon also are being caught at the mouth of the Chetco. A 47-pounder won the derby during the ocean bubble season. I have just a couple of dates left for Chetco and Smith river salmon in November, but am booking a few other guides and can still get you on the water. There are a handful of prime dates left for Elk and Sixes rivers salmon in December. Dates also are beginning to fill for January and February steelhead fishing on the Chetco, Smith, Elk and Sixes so call now to get on the calendar while there is still room on my boat. To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
Salmon fishing on the Smith River in Northern California was great for a couple of days last week following the rain we received at the beginning of the week. We got limits of nice big, bright fish, and let some smaller ones go. The Smith is now low and clear again and fishing has slowed, but with big tides on their way we should start to see a lot of fish at the Sand Hole and mouth of Rowdy Creek soon. Some salmon also are being caught at the mouth of the Chetco. A 47-pounder won the derby during the ocean bubble season. I have just a couple of dates left for Chetco and Smith river salmon in November, but am booking a few other guides and can still get you on the water. There are a handful of prime dates left for Elk and Sixes rivers salmon in December. Dates also are beginning to fill for January and February steelhead fishing on the Chetco, Smith, Elk and Sixes so call now to get on the calendar while there is still room on my boat. To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
Oct. 19, 2011
As we wait for rains to jumpstart salmon fishing on the Smith River again, we've been focusing on the Chetco River estuary, where salmon have been stacking up near the mouth. One of my customers landed a 47-pound king yesterday in the estuary. Overall, the fishing is fair, but we are seeing a lot of salmon splash and jump. I heard from another guide on the Smith last night that the Sand Hole had its first decent day yesterday, with trollers getting fish at first light, and the fly fishermen catching salmon throughout the day. Until the rains break everything wide open, fishing should steadily improve on both the Chetco estuary and Smith tidewater as the tides get bigger during the next week. To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
As we wait for rains to jumpstart salmon fishing on the Smith River again, we've been focusing on the Chetco River estuary, where salmon have been stacking up near the mouth. One of my customers landed a 47-pound king yesterday in the estuary. Overall, the fishing is fair, but we are seeing a lot of salmon splash and jump. I heard from another guide on the Smith last night that the Sand Hole had its first decent day yesterday, with trollers getting fish at first light, and the fly fishermen catching salmon throughout the day. Until the rains break everything wide open, fishing should steadily improve on both the Chetco estuary and Smith tidewater as the tides get bigger during the next week. To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
Oct. 24, 2011
Despite low, clear conditions on both the Chetco and Smith rivers, we've continued to enjoy solid action while we wait for rains to open both systems upriver. Today we landed a beautiful 30-pound chromer king at the Sand Hole on the Smith River trolling plug-cut herring. The big news from the last week was the first 50-pound king of the season on the Chetco, caught by one of my customers on Friday. We were trolling herring along the jetties. It was one of three kings were hooked that day. We've been averaging a couple of kings a day on the Chetco estuary. Until we get rain we'll be hopping back and forth between the Smith and Chetco estuaries, both of which has plenty of chrome-bright fish in them right now. I spent one day on the Rogue Bay this past week. We hooked three salmon, but most of the fish are wild coho and must be released. To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
Despite low, clear conditions on both the Chetco and Smith rivers, we've continued to enjoy solid action while we wait for rains to open both systems upriver. Today we landed a beautiful 30-pound chromer king at the Sand Hole on the Smith River trolling plug-cut herring. The big news from the last week was the first 50-pound king of the season on the Chetco, caught by one of my customers on Friday. We were trolling herring along the jetties. It was one of three kings were hooked that day. We've been averaging a couple of kings a day on the Chetco estuary. Until we get rain we'll be hopping back and forth between the Smith and Chetco estuaries, both of which has plenty of chrome-bright fish in them right now. I spent one day on the Rogue Bay this past week. We hooked three salmon, but most of the fish are wild coho and must be released. To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
Nov. 2, 2011
Salmon fishing on the lower Smith River has been good this week. We limited out quickly on Monday and again today and released a few as well. Yesterday we trolled the Chetco estuary, which has slowed from the week before, but did get one salmon. Rain is expected tonight and Thursday, which should kick things into high gear on the Chetco and Smith. The Chetco opens above tidewater on Saturday. To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
Salmon fishing on the lower Smith River has been good this week. We limited out quickly on Monday and again today and released a few as well. Yesterday we trolled the Chetco estuary, which has slowed from the week before, but did get one salmon. Rain is expected tonight and Thursday, which should kick things into high gear on the Chetco and Smith. The Chetco opens above tidewater on Saturday. To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
Nov. 15, 2011
What a great week of fishing we've had on the Chetco River. The Chetco opened Nov. 5, but the water was low and clear so I stayed on the Smith and we got some nice fishing trolling at the Sand Hole. Then it rained, hard, and the river came up. It was wide open the next three days. Our best day was 12 hookups and we would of had more if we stayed longer. We got lots of bright fish throughout the system before things began to slow as the river dropped. It's raining again today in Brooking and the Smith and Chetco are expected to begin rising again on Wednesday. This weekend looks prime. I have an opening on Saturday and then some late season openings for the Elk and Sixes. We've caught two steelhead already on the Chetco, so all indications are we will have an exceptional steelhead run as well this winter. There are large numbers of kings in the Chetco and Smith now and a new bunch of fish will pour in with this week's rain. To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
What a great week of fishing we've had on the Chetco River. The Chetco opened Nov. 5, but the water was low and clear so I stayed on the Smith and we got some nice fishing trolling at the Sand Hole. Then it rained, hard, and the river came up. It was wide open the next three days. Our best day was 12 hookups and we would of had more if we stayed longer. We got lots of bright fish throughout the system before things began to slow as the river dropped. It's raining again today in Brooking and the Smith and Chetco are expected to begin rising again on Wednesday. This weekend looks prime. I have an opening on Saturday and then some late season openings for the Elk and Sixes. We've caught two steelhead already on the Chetco, so all indications are we will have an exceptional steelhead run as well this winter. There are large numbers of kings in the Chetco and Smith now and a new bunch of fish will pour in with this week's rain. To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
Nov. 27, 2011
The highlight of the past week was the 65-pound monster king Wayne Smith of Yreka caught on the Chetco. By far the biggest fish of the season. Wayne caught the giant salmon on one of the new T55 Hawg Nose FlatFish. Overall, fishing has slowed on the Chetco with the recent high water, so we've been fishing the Elk to the north and the Smith to the south. There were some nice bright fish in the Elk, but it was pretty crowded. The Smith also has some nice bright kings. Conditions are prime on the Chetco again, so I'll be focusing most of the week there. Nice steelhead have already been caught on both the Chetco and the Smith. Several steelhead also have already shown up at Rowdy Creek Fish Hatchery. The calendar is beginning to fill in for steelhead, but there are still prime dates left in late December, January and February. Call is you have a specific steelhead date in mind.
To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
The highlight of the past week was the 65-pound monster king Wayne Smith of Yreka caught on the Chetco. By far the biggest fish of the season. Wayne caught the giant salmon on one of the new T55 Hawg Nose FlatFish. Overall, fishing has slowed on the Chetco with the recent high water, so we've been fishing the Elk to the north and the Smith to the south. There were some nice bright fish in the Elk, but it was pretty crowded. The Smith also has some nice bright kings. Conditions are prime on the Chetco again, so I'll be focusing most of the week there. Nice steelhead have already been caught on both the Chetco and the Smith. Several steelhead also have already shown up at Rowdy Creek Fish Hatchery. The calendar is beginning to fill in for steelhead, but there are still prime dates left in late December, January and February. Call is you have a specific steelhead date in mind.
To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
Dec. 14, 2011
Steelhead are making a strong early showing on the Chetco River, while the Smith is still kicking out some really nice bright kings. I've been fishing both rivers the past week and finding pleny of fish on each. On Saturday, we hooked five steelhead and landed four on the Chetco. We hooked six and landed three on Monday. The rest of the week I was on the Smith, where we got bright kings every day. Rain is expected tonight, so the steelhead fishing should get even better on the Smith and Chetco, and we should see another shot of kings on the Elk and Sixes. I have a few dates open. To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
Steelhead are making a strong early showing on the Chetco River, while the Smith is still kicking out some really nice bright kings. I've been fishing both rivers the past week and finding pleny of fish on each. On Saturday, we hooked five steelhead and landed four on the Chetco. We hooked six and landed three on Monday. The rest of the week I was on the Smith, where we got bright kings every day. Rain is expected tonight, so the steelhead fishing should get even better on the Smith and Chetco, and we should see another shot of kings on the Elk and Sixes. I have a few dates open. To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
Dec. 22, 2011
We've continued to find a couple steelhead each day on the Chetco, despite the low, clear water. Rain is in the forecast for Christmas Day and again Tuesday and Wednesday. That should give us the flows we've been waiting for all month to make steelhead fishing really good. I have some opening for January for either the Chetco or Smith. We'll also be running a few jet boat steelhead trips on the lower Rogue. The early catches on the Chetco indicate we will be having an above-average run of steelhead this season. Call if you'd like to get in on the action. To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
We've continued to find a couple steelhead each day on the Chetco, despite the low, clear water. Rain is in the forecast for Christmas Day and again Tuesday and Wednesday. That should give us the flows we've been waiting for all month to make steelhead fishing really good. I have some opening for January for either the Chetco or Smith. We'll also be running a few jet boat steelhead trips on the lower Rogue. The early catches on the Chetco indicate we will be having an above-average run of steelhead this season. Call if you'd like to get in on the action. To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
Dec. 28, 2011
Significant rain has finally arrived and given a much needed boost to flows on the Chetco and Smith rivers. Both will be blown out for a few days, but should fall into perfect shape by New Year's Day. Expect very good steelhead fishing the next several weeks, as it looks like we will have favorable weather for a while. Before the rains we enjoyed some good steelhead fishing on the Chetco, and also got into some nice late season kings. I have some openings still available in January and more in February for steelhead fishing on the Chetco, Smith, Rogue, Elk and Sixes rivers. To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
Significant rain has finally arrived and given a much needed boost to flows on the Chetco and Smith rivers. Both will be blown out for a few days, but should fall into perfect shape by New Year's Day. Expect very good steelhead fishing the next several weeks, as it looks like we will have favorable weather for a while. Before the rains we enjoyed some good steelhead fishing on the Chetco, and also got into some nice late season kings. I have some openings still available in January and more in February for steelhead fishing on the Chetco, Smith, Rogue, Elk and Sixes rivers. To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
Jan. 2, 2012
The Chetco and Smith rivers are now in perfect shape for steelhead. The rivers blew out a few days before New Year's but are now under 4,000 cfs and fishing good. The Smith was great over the holiday weekend. We averaged five to six hookups a day and landed some fish in the mid teens. The Chetco was still a little high today but we found some fish. It will get better from here on out. One of the boats plunking the tidewater hooked up six hatchery fish on the Chetco today, a good sign for the upper river once flows drop a little. I have a few dates remaining for January and several for February. I am also one of the few guides with the Forest Service permit to fish the upper river, where you can enjoy good fishing away from the crowds! To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
The Chetco and Smith rivers are now in perfect shape for steelhead. The rivers blew out a few days before New Year's but are now under 4,000 cfs and fishing good. The Smith was great over the holiday weekend. We averaged five to six hookups a day and landed some fish in the mid teens. The Chetco was still a little high today but we found some fish. It will get better from here on out. One of the boats plunking the tidewater hooked up six hatchery fish on the Chetco today, a good sign for the upper river once flows drop a little. I have a few dates remaining for January and several for February. I am also one of the few guides with the Forest Service permit to fish the upper river, where you can enjoy good fishing away from the crowds! To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
Jan. 11, 2012
The rain at the beginning of the month brought in a bunch of fresh steelhead to the Chetco and Smith rivers. We enjoyed limits for several days before the action slowed because of the low, clear conditions. My best day the past week was nine fish, followed by six fish. There was a slow day in the mix, too, with just one hook up. The last three days I've been using my Upper Chetco Forest Service permit to get away from the crowds and found some great action up high. Best of all we haven't seen another boat in three days. Rain is expected to hit Sunday, with a bigger storm next Tuesday. The rivers should all be in prime shape again the end of next week and well into the second half of the month. There are still some dates available if you want to get in on this year's big steelhead run on the Chetco or Smith. To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
The rain at the beginning of the month brought in a bunch of fresh steelhead to the Chetco and Smith rivers. We enjoyed limits for several days before the action slowed because of the low, clear conditions. My best day the past week was nine fish, followed by six fish. There was a slow day in the mix, too, with just one hook up. The last three days I've been using my Upper Chetco Forest Service permit to get away from the crowds and found some great action up high. Best of all we haven't seen another boat in three days. Rain is expected to hit Sunday, with a bigger storm next Tuesday. The rivers should all be in prime shape again the end of next week and well into the second half of the month. There are still some dates available if you want to get in on this year's big steelhead run on the Chetco or Smith. To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
Jan. 17, 2012
Rain is falling today in Brookings and the Chetco, Smith, Rogue, Elk and Sixes all are expected to blow out by mid week. When they come back into shape early next week, we should see another big shot of fish. Before the rain, fishing was the best it has been this season, despite the low, clear water. Our best day on the Chetco was 15 hookups and 13 steelhead landed. I have a few late January openings and some openings in February. There is still time to get in on this exceptional steelhead run on the Chetco. To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
Rain is falling today in Brookings and the Chetco, Smith, Rogue, Elk and Sixes all are expected to blow out by mid week. When they come back into shape early next week, we should see another big shot of fish. Before the rain, fishing was the best it has been this season, despite the low, clear water. Our best day on the Chetco was 15 hookups and 13 steelhead landed. I have a few late January openings and some openings in February. There is still time to get in on this exceptional steelhead run on the Chetco. To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
Jan. 27, 2012
The Chetco, Rogue and Smith were all blown out for nearly a week after several big storms hit the coast, bringing the Smith almost to flood stage and the Chetco to 60,000 cfs. The rivers are dropping and back in shape now. For the past two days, I've been fishing the Chetco out of my jet boat and we've been getting some nice steelhead in the high water. Fred and Claude, here from Idaho, hooked three and landed two yesterday and hooked four and landed three today. Tomorrow it looks like we'll be back to the drift boat side drifting. We saw a lot of steelhead rolling while they were moving upriver today, a sign fishing should be really good for the next few weeks. I have Feb. 7, 8, 9, 12, 14, 15, 16, 21 and 22 open in my boat. Another guide I work with has Friday and Saturday, Feb. 3-4 open. This has been one of the best steelhead runs in years and we still have several weeks of prime fishing remaining. To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.
The Chetco, Rogue and Smith were all blown out for nearly a week after several big storms hit the coast, bringing the Smith almost to flood stage and the Chetco to 60,000 cfs. The rivers are dropping and back in shape now. For the past two days, I've been fishing the Chetco out of my jet boat and we've been getting some nice steelhead in the high water. Fred and Claude, here from Idaho, hooked three and landed two yesterday and hooked four and landed three today. Tomorrow it looks like we'll be back to the drift boat side drifting. We saw a lot of steelhead rolling while they were moving upriver today, a sign fishing should be really good for the next few weeks. I have Feb. 7, 8, 9, 12, 14, 15, 16, 21 and 22 open in my boat. Another guide I work with has Friday and Saturday, Feb. 3-4 open. This has been one of the best steelhead runs in years and we still have several weeks of prime fishing remaining. To book the ultimate Oregon or Alaska fishing trip, call (206) 388-8988 or e-mail wildriversfishing@yahoo.com.