Oregon Steelhead Fishing Report

It’s mid-December and we’ve just been dumped on by a pile of white stuff across Oregon.  Early winter storms have turned the lanscape white for most of Oregon and the rivers cold.  That has’nt stopped steelhead from their annual migrations into Oregon rivers and streams.  The traditional kickoff for winter steelhead fishing has been Thanksgiving- now mid-December we are getting going you could say on some of our early river.

Many Oregon waters don’t really get into the action until Jan/Feb but here are some rivers and streams you are more likely to find early arriving steelhead:  Nestucca, Wilson, Necanicum, Clackamas, Eagle Cr, Big Creek, Alsea, NF Alsea and Three Rivers.

Reports of early arriving fish have been checked off on most of the above listed rivers.  Low and cold water conditions are likely to stall arriving fish so look in slower deep pools for fish to be hiding.  A good rain should help send a burst of fish through river systems and spark some good fishing.

For low clear conditions, scale down your offering with smaller and darker flies.  Use flourocarbon leaders and a careful approach to the water.  Focus on slightly slower and deeper water.

Good luck and safe driving out there!