Review the months and rivers you would like to fish and learn about what we are fishing for that time of year, where we are fishing, and the techniques we are utilizing.
Starting in March and April the McKenzie River begins to experience its first hatch of the year with BWO’s/Blue Winged Olives, March Browns and Mother’s Day Caddis, this is a great opportunity to dust off the Fly rods and get out on the river. As we move into May through October the lower river is full of hatchery and native trout. During this time there are multiple opportunities to catch trout. Fly fishing can be truly incredible with many different techniques being effective from tight line nymphing to throwing dry droppers. This is also when we love to get families out on the river and introduce them to the excitement of spin fishing. We use a side drifting method with very small hooks that allows for the release of any native fish caught unharmed and we usually send clients home with their limit of hatcher trout. We run “Specials” throughout the summer to allow for budget friendly family trips. As fall rains arrive, we transition to Winter Steelhead season, this runs late fall through early spring and allows us to chase the prized Winter Steelhead with their violent takes and acrobatic fights.
Fishing the breathtaking McKenzie River from April to October is an angler’s dream. With its crystal-clear waters and stunning landscapes, this legendary river offers abundant opportunities to catch a variety of fish, from Trout and Steelhead to Salmon and Whitefish. Whether you prefer spinning gear or fly fishing, each trip down the McKenzie promises a picturesque float and an unforgettable adventure, showcasing some of the most beautiful scenery in the U.S.
This is when the Mayfly begins to emerge as a food source for trout, this is a good time to try and “match the hatch” and dust off the fly rods. These fish are cold and can be picky when eating. Multiple techniques and patience are required.
Spin fishing- As the water warms the trout become plentiful and easier to catch. This is a perfect place to bring the kiddos and introduce them to fishing. The action can be fast and furious. We provide multiple rods per client and have lots of leaders tied. We are unique in that we primarily side-drift for trout which teaches kids to feel the tug of the fish and allows them to develop their skills early in life.
As the water warms the trout become more active and there are plentiful hatches, this makes the fishing a little easier and allows beginners to not only have a beautiful place to practice their casting but also land some incredible fish.
During these trips we will pull over and wade in spots that accommodate it. It also provide a great educational opportunity for beginning Fly anglers.
In Oregon this is a dynamic time of year, water levels are constantly changing and fish are pulsing through the systems. This fishery demands persistence and the ability to adapt to changing conditions. For more experience we may side drift with sensitive rods bouncing our offering across the bottom of the river, we may also “bobber dog” our presentations which hang up a little less often and are best suited to the beginning angler. Again, persistence in the key here, having our gear in the water for the longest duration possible increases our odds significantly. That is why our service provides multiple quality rods, pre-tied leaders, bait is easy to use containers and is pre-cut, weights are provided in multiple forms (slinkys, Dave’s tangle free and stainless stick weights)
We strive to recreate the thrill of catching your first fish for every angler, whether through our exceptional service or landing your first winter steelhead. Oregon’s rivers offer unparalleled fishing experiences. The McKenzie River, from May to October, provides ample opportunities to catch various fish, with clear waters and stunning surroundings. Coastal rivers like the Siletz and South Umpqua enhance the adventure with waterfalls, fertile farmland, and unique rock formations, showcasing Oregon’s diverse and immersive geography for an unforgettable fishing experience.
We provide a relaxed, welcoming fishing experience from the avid angler to beginners, our service was founded in fishing with friends and family that grew into a fishing adventure for everyone.