Photo by Aarron Schmidt of Schmidty’s Guide Service
The Pacific Northwest is home to some of the most iconic steelhead fishing rivers in the world. Known for their epic runs, challenging conditions, and the thrill of catching these powerful fish, steelhead fishing is a dream for anglers seeking adventure and excitement. The region’s diverse landscape—stretching from the rocky shores of Oregon’s coast to the deep forests of Washington and Northern California—creates the perfect habitat for steelhead, making it a prime destination for anglers.
In this article, we’ll take you through the top 10 rivers to fish for steelhead in the Pacific Northwest, including their steelhead runs, prime fishing locations, and when to visit for the best experience. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a newcomer to the world of steelhead fishing, this guide will help you find the best spots to cast your line.
Why Steelhead Fishing in the Pacific Northwest?
Steelhead fishing in the Pacific Northwest is an experience unlike any other. Steelhead are anadromous fish, meaning they are born in freshwater streams, migrate to the ocean to grow and mature, and then return to their native rivers to spawn. Known for their fierce fights and acrobatic jumps, steelhead are a prized catch for anglers.
The Pacific Northwest offers the perfect environment for these fish, with cold, clean rivers and a variety of habitats ranging from fast-flowing streams to slower, deep pools. Steelhead runs can vary depending on the river and species, but most rivers offer both winter and summer runs, giving anglers year-round opportunities.
1. Columbia River (Washington/Oregon)
The Columbia River is the largest river in the Pacific Northwest and a central hub for steelhead fishing. Known for its incredible size and complexity, the Columbia River offers numerous tributaries and access points for anglers. Its steelhead runs are legendary, attracting anglers from around the world.
Steelhead Runs & Seasons:
Winter Steelhead: The winter steelhead runs in the Columbia River typically start in December and last until April. These fish are generally larger and fight harder than their summer counterparts.
Summer Steelhead: Summer steelhead runs occur from June to September, with peak fishing in July and August. These fish tend to be smaller but are known for their aggressive behavior.
Fishing Locations:
Bonneville Dam: This area, located about 40 miles from Portland, Oregon, is one of the most popular steelhead fishing spots. Anglers target both winter and summer steelhead as they pass through the dam.
John Day River: A tributary of the Columbia, the John Day River is famous for producing high numbers of steelhead during both the summer and winter runs. It’s a prime spot for anglers seeking a more tranquil fishing experience.
Cowlitz River: Known for its prolific steelhead runs, the Cowlitz River, a major tributary of the Columbia, is one of the top locations for both winter and summer steelhead fishing.
2. Willamette River (Oregon)
The Willamette River, located in Oregon, is a prime steelhead fishing river. As a major tributary of the Columbia, it is home to a significant steelhead population, especially in the winter and spring months. The Willamette provides anglers with several productive fishing locations.
Steelhead Runs & Seasons:
Winter Steelhead: Winter runs start in late November and continue through April. The largest steelhead tend to migrate during this time.
Summer Steelhead: Summer runs begin in June and peak in July and August, providing an excellent opportunity for anglers looking to fish during warmer months.
Fishing Locations:
McKenzie River: A tributary of the Willamette River, the McKenzie is famous for its winter steelhead runs. It’s known for its scenic beauty and challenging conditions, making it ideal for more experienced anglers.
Santiam River: The North and South Santiam Rivers are both excellent options for anglers looking for steelhead. They offer great access points and consistent steelhead runs throughout the year.
Willamette Falls: Located near Oregon City, Willamette Falls is a popular spot for steelhead fishing, especially during winter runs.
3. Rogue River (Oregon)
The Rogue River is renowned for its stunning scenery and legendary steelhead fishing. This river provides one of the best opportunities for anglers in the Pacific Northwest, with both winter and summer runs of steelhead. The Rogue is famous for its challenging waters and spectacular steelhead runs.
Steelhead Runs & Seasons:
Winter Steelhead: Winter runs typically begin in December and last through March. The Rogue’s winter steelhead are known for their large size and excellent fighting ability.
Summer Steelhead: The summer steelhead run on the Rogue River begins in June and continues through October. These fish tend to be smaller but are more abundant and often easier to catch.
Fishing Locations:
Grants Pass: The area around Grants Pass is a well-known hotspot for steelhead fishing. The Rogue River is accessible here, and anglers can expect excellent fishing throughout both the winter and summer runs.
Agness: Located further downstream, Agness is another prime location on the Rogue River. Its remote setting and stunning scenery make it a favorite among anglers who prefer seclusion and serenity.
4. Clackamas River (Oregon)
A tributary of the Willamette River, the Clackamas River offers a fantastic steelhead fishing experience. Its proximity to Portland makes it a convenient spot for anglers looking for a day trip or weekend getaway.
Steelhead Runs & Seasons:
Winter Steelhead: The Clackamas River is known for its large winter steelhead runs, typically peaking in January through March.
Summer Steelhea: Summer steelhead runs begin in June and last through October, with peak fishing in July and August.
Fishing Locations:
Rhododendron: This area, near the river’s headwaters, provides a quiet and scenic spot for anglers. It’s ideal for those looking to avoid crowds.
Clackamas River Gorge: Known for its fast-moving water, this section of the river offers prime fishing for steelhead and a rewarding challenge for experienced anglers.
5. Deschutes River (Oregon)
The Deschutes River is another prime location for steelhead fishing. Located in central Oregon, the Deschutes is known for its crystal-clear water, scenic beauty, and consistent steelhead runs. It offers a unique fishing experience that attracts anglers year-round.
Steelhead Runs & Seasons:
Winter Steelhead: The winter run of steelhead begins in late November and lasts until March. The Deschutes provides excellent opportunities for anglers to catch large winter steelhead.
Summer Steelhead: Summer steelhead enter the Deschutes starting in May, with the best fishing happening in June through September.
Fishing Locations:
The Lower Deschutes: The lower section of the Deschutes River, from Maupin to the Columbia River, is one of the most popular and productive steelhead fishing spots.
The Upper Deschutes: Although less crowded, the upper section near Bend offers beautiful surroundings and challenging fishing conditions, perfect for experienced anglers looking for a more remote experience.
6. Snake River (Idaho/Washington)
The Snake River is one of the most famous steelhead rivers in the Pacific Northwest. Originating in Wyoming and flowing through Idaho and Washington, the Snake River offers a unique fishing experience with both winter and summer runs of steelhead.
Steelhead Runs & Seasons:
Winter Steelhead: The Snake River’s winter steelhead run peaks in January through March.
Summer Steelhead: Summer runs typically begin in late spring and continue through the summer months, providing great fishing from May to September.
Fishing Locations:
Hells Canyon: One of the most scenic and remote areas along the Snake River, Hells Canyon offers steelhead fishing in a rugged and beautiful setting. This location is perfect for anglers looking for an adventure.
Lewiston: The area near Lewiston, Idaho, is known for its excellent access to steelhead runs, making it a popular destination for anglers seeking consistent catches.
7. Cowlitz River (Washington)
The Cowlitz River in Washington is one of the most productive steelhead rivers in the region, with both winter and summer runs offering excellent fishing opportunities.
Steelhead Runs & Seasons:
Winter Steelhead: Winter runs typically start in late November and last through early spring, providing opportunities for large steelhead.
Summer Steelhead: Summer steelhead fishing peaks from June to August, with the best fishing happening in the early summer months.
Fishing Locations:
Blue Creek: Located near the mouth of the river, Blue Creek is one of the most popular spots for steelhead fishing on the Cowlitz.
Barrier Dam: This area is one of the top spots for anglers looking to catch both winter and summer steelhead. The section near the dam offers great access and productive waters.
8. Yakima River (Washington)
The Yakima River is a well-known steelhead river that runs through central Washington. Although it is primarily known for its trout fishing, it also provides excellent steelhead opportunities.
Steelhead Runs & Seasons:
Winter Steelhead: The Yakima has a decent winter steelhead run, typically peaking in January through March.
Summer Steelhead: The summer steelhead run on the Yakima is more limited but still provides some great fishing opportunities in late spring and early summer.
Fishing Locations:
The Lower Yakima: The lower section of the river near Richland offers the best steelhead fishing, with good access points and productive waters.
Selah and Naches: These tributaries and nearby sections offer a quieter experience for anglers looking for a peaceful fishing day.
9. Humptulips River (Washington)
Located on the Olympic Peninsula, the Humptulips River is famous for its winter steelhead runs. The river is accessible and offers a relatively peaceful fishing experience compared to some of the more crowded spots in the region.
Steelhead Runs & Seasons:
Winter Steelhead: The best steelhead fishing on the Humptulips occurs from December through March, with peak fishing in January and February.
Fishing Locations:
Humptulips River Mouth: The lower river offers easy access and productive fishing for steelhead during the winter months.
Upper Humptulips: For those willing to hike, the upper sections of the river provide excellent steelhead fishing with fewer anglers.
10. Quinault River (Washington)
The Quinault River, located on the Olympic Peninsula, is another premier steelhead river. Known for its rugged beauty and challenging conditions, it attracts anglers seeking adventure and solitude.
Steelhead Runs & Seasons:
Winter Steelhead: The Quinault River’s winter steelhead run typically starts in December and continues through March.
Summer Steelhead: The summer run is smaller but still provides opportunities for anglers looking to fish during the warmer months.
Fishing Locations:
Lower Quinault: The lower section of the river is known for its easy access and productive fishing for steelhead.
Upper Quinault: The upper section of the Quinault is remote and requires a bit of effort to reach, but it’s worth it for those looking for a secluded fishing experience.
In Conclusion
Steelhead fishing in the Pacific Northwest is a dream come true for anglers, with a wide range of rivers offering diverse opportunities. Whether you’re after large winter steelhead or the thrill of chasing summer runs, the region’s rivers provide excellent fishing opportunities throughout the year. From the mighty Columbia to the remote Quinault, these top 10 rivers are the best places to fish for steelhead in the Pacific Northwest. So, pack your gear, plan your trip, and get ready to
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