NW Steelhead
The 2023 winter steelhead season is just getting started and we’re excited to see what it brings to the multiple rivers and locations that we fish. It’s still early in the season, but some we’ve already brought some nice fish to the boat. Just this weekend, a customer landed a 20 lb steelhead on the Wilson River. With over 2 months of prime steelhead fishing ahead, we expect the fishing to continue to improve as we head toward spring as buds are bursting out, water temps are beginning to warm up, and there are a few fish moving up the rivers. What more could you ask for?
Tillamook Steelhead
Well-known for its multiple rivers which give us more options to choose from depending on conditions on a given day, and who doesn’t like chasing chrome right as the fish enter freshwater? With multiple rivers to choose from, we fish whichever will provide the best day of fishing for our customers. It may be the Wilson River one day and the Kilchis the next. Each river behaves differently and offers different conditions. Our Tillamook steelhead trips are 2 person drift boat trips, which offers a nice change of pace from our sled trips.
Portland Steelhead
There are multiple options for winter steelhead fishing within 45 minutes of Portland, with both drift boat and sled options. On the Oregon side, we have opportunities on the Sandy River and the Clackamas River. Just a short drive across the Columbia from Portland, some of the best steelhead fishing of the year takes place on the Lewis and Cowlitz Rivers. These Washington tributaries provide some nice action for anglers, and each offers a different experience. The Lewis has a larger native population, while the Cowlitz has a large hatchery run. Both offer some beautiful water and bright, feisty fish. February and March are prime time to get out.
If you prefer to chase Portland springers, let us know. The season isn’t too far away. We usually do some early trips toward the end of March and will move into prime spring chinook season in April. In the meantime, bundle up for brisk mornings and let’s chase some chrome.
Let us know if you have any questions or would like to get a trip on the books. We’re always happy to help.