Premier S. Oregon Salmon & Steelhead Weekend

Reel in the Big One: Southern Oregon Salmon & Steelhead

Ready to hook into some of the Pacific Northwest's most prized game fish? Matt Ford's Guide Service has you covered with our weekend fishing charters in Southern Oregon. Whether you're a first-timer or looking to sharpen your skills, we'll get you on the water and into the action. From the legendary Rogue River to the hidden gems of the Chetco and Sixes, we know where the fish are biting and how to help you land 'em.

What to Expect on the Water

Our 8-hour charters are perfect for those new to salmon and steelhead fishing. We'll cruise some of Southern Oregon's most productive waters, including Rogue Bay, the North and South Umpqua, and the Southfork Coquille. Don't sweat the gear – we've got you covered with top-notch rods, reels, and tackle. Just bring your fishing license, grub, and something to drink. Fair warning: once you feel that first tug on the line, you might be hooked for life!

Mastering the Basics

Fishing isn't just about luck – it's about skill, and we're here to help you build it. Throughout the day, we'll walk you through the nuts and bolts of salmon and steelhead fishing. You'll get hands-on practice with casting techniques that'll have you placing your lure right where the big ones are hiding. We'll cover presentation strategies to make your bait irresistible, and when you hook up, we'll guide you through the art of playing and landing these hard-fighting fish. By the end of the day, you'll have the confidence to tackle these rivers on your own.

Top Catches This Season

Southern Oregon's rivers are teeming with opportunity, and each season brings its own excitement. In the fall, we target chrome-bright Chinook salmon fresh from the ocean, often tipping the scales at 20-30 pounds. Winter and early spring bring the steelhead run, with hard-fighting fish that'll test your skills and your drag. Rainbow trout are a year-round possibility, offering fast action and a great chance to practice your technique. No matter when you join us, there's always something worth casting for in these waters.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Chinook Salmon: Also known as king salmon, these are the heavyweight champs of the Pacific salmon world. In Southern Oregon, we see fall-run Chinooks averaging 15-25 pounds, with some monsters pushing 40+. They're known for their powerful runs and acrobatic jumps when hooked. Chinooks prefer deeper holes and runs, so we'll often use heavier gear and bait like roe or sardine-wrapped plugs. The best time to target these bruisers is from August through October when they're staging in the bays or making their way upriver.

Steelhead Trout: Often called the "fish of a thousand casts," steelhead are worth every minute of effort. These sea-run rainbow trout typically range from 5-12 pounds, but their fight is legendary. They're lightning-fast, prone to spectacular leaps, and have an uncanny ability to throw the hook. We target them using a variety of methods, from drift fishing with roe to swinging flies in the classic West Coast style. Winter-run fish start showing up in December, with the action peaking in January and February. Summer-run steelhead offer opportunities from June through September in some rivers.

Rainbow Trout: The resident form of steelhead, rainbow trout are abundant in Southern Oregon's rivers year-round. They might not reach the size of their sea-run cousins, but what they lack in size they make up for in numbers and willingness to bite. Averaging 10-16 inches, with some stretching to 20+, rainbows are perfect for honing your skills or having a blast when the salmon and steelhead aren't cooperating. We'll often target them with light tackle, using small spinners, flies, or bait. They're a great species for beginners to build confidence with before tackling the bigger game.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

It's not just about the fish – though they're a big part of it. Southern Oregon offers some of the most scenic fishing you'll ever experience. Imagine casting your line as eagles soar overhead and deer come down to the riverbank for a drink. The solitude and beauty of these rivers have a way of recharging your batteries, even if the fish aren't biting. And when they are? There's nothing quite like the rush of battling a chrome-bright salmon or steelhead in pristine waters. Add in the wealth of knowledge you'll gain from our guides, and it's no wonder folks come back year after year to wet a line with us.

Time to Book Your Spot

Look, we get it – there are a lot of fishing charters out there. But if you're new to the game or just want to up your salmon and steelhead game, Matt Ford's Guide Service is your ticket to success. We've got the local know-how, the patience to teach, and access to some of the best fishing holes in Southern Oregon. Remember, our trips are designed for just one angler, so you'll get personalized attention all day long. Don't let another season slip by – grab your spot now and get ready for a day on the water you won't forget. Just a heads up: we require a deposit to hold your reservation, and it's non-refundable (check our Trips & Rates page for the nitty-gritty). So what are you waiting for? The fish are calling, and we've got a seat in the boat with your name on it. Let's make some fishing memories!