Top-Rated Crabbing & Salmon Fishing in S. Oregon

Southern Oregon's Ultimate Fishing Combo

Ready for a full day of non-stop fishing action? Our 8-10 hour Crabbing & Salmon Fishing Adventure takes you to the heart of Southern Oregon's best fishing grounds. We're talking prime spots on the North and South Umpqua Rivers, Southfork Coquille, Rogue River, Chetco, Elk, and Sixes. This isn't your average day out - it's a chance to experience why anglers from all over flock to our waters. Whether you're setting crab pots along the rugged coastline or casting for salmon in our pristine rivers, we've got you covered with all the gear you need (just bring your license, grub, and drinks). So grab your hat and let's hit the water!

What to Expect on the Water

Picture this: you're out on the boat before the sun's fully up, mist rising off the river as you set your first crab pot of the day. As the morning warms up, we'll switch gears and head to some of my favorite salmon spots. I've been guiding these waters for years, and let me tell you, there's nothing quite like the fight of a Chinook on the line. We'll spend the day moving between crabbing and fishing hotspots, maximizing your chances for a cooler full of seafood to take home. It's a long day, but trust me, when you're reeling in fish after fish, time flies. And don't worry if you're new to this - I'll be right there to help you with techniques, spot selection, and even cleaning your catch if you want.

Top Catches This Season

Alright, let's talk technique. For salmon, we'll be using a mix of methods depending on the river and conditions. Sometimes we'll be back-bouncing roe, other times we might be pulling plugs or side-drifting. I'll read the water and we'll adjust as needed. For crabbing, we'll be dropping pots baited with fresh fish carcasses (waste not, want not in my book). We'll check them periodically throughout the day. The gear we use is top-notch - quality rods, reels, and tackle for the salmon fishing, and sturdy crab pots that'll withstand the coastal currents. Remember, in Southern Oregon, the fishing conditions can change quickly, so be ready to switch things up if the fish aren't biting. That's the beauty of this combo trip - if one isn't hot, we can always pivot to the other.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Chinook Salmon: Also known as Kings, these are the heavyweights of the Pacific salmon world. In our rivers, they can range from 10 to over 50 pounds. Chinooks are known for their strength and endurance - when you hook one, be ready for a fight. They're most active in our waters from late summer through fall. The taste? Out of this world. There's a reason they call it "king" salmon.

Coho Salmon: Cohos, or silvers, are the acrobats of the salmon family. They're smaller than Chinooks, usually in the 6-12 pound range, but what they lack in size they make up for in feistiness. These guys love to leap when hooked, putting on a real show. We typically see them from late summer into fall. Cohos have a milder flavor compared to Chinooks, but they're still delicious on the grill or smoked.

Steelhead Trout: Now, steelhead are a whole different ballgame. These sea-run rainbow trout are some of the most sought-after game fish in the Pacific Northwest. They're elusive, powerful, and can range from 5 to 20 pounds. We get both summer and winter runs in our rivers, so there's almost always a chance to hook one. Steelhead are known for their hard fights and acrobatic jumps. As for eating, they're considered by many to be the best-tasting of all salmonids.

Dungeness Crab: While not a fish, these crustaceans are a major draw for our combo trips. Dungeness crabs are prized for their sweet, tender meat. They typically weigh 1.5 to 2.5 pounds and have a distinctive purple-tinged shell. Crabbing season usually runs from December through summer, making them a perfect complement to our salmon fishing. There's nothing quite like pulling up a pot full of these tasty critters!

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

Look, I've been guiding these waters for years, and I still get excited every time I head out. There's something special about Southern Oregon fishing that keeps folks coming back year after year. Maybe it's the diversity - where else can you catch salmon, steelhead, and crab all in one day? Or maybe it's the scenery - from the mist-covered coastal inlets to the pristine river valleys, it's hard to beat. But I think what really hooks people is the quality of the fishing itself. Our waters are some of the most productive on the West Coast, and when the bite is on, it's non-stop action. Plus, there's nothing quite like the taste of fresh-caught salmon or crab that you reeled in yourself. It's more than just a fishing trip - it's a full-on Pacific Northwest experience.

Time to Book Your Spot

Alright, let's wrap this up. If you're looking for a full day of world-class fishing that combines the best of what Southern Oregon has to offer, this is your trip. We're talking salmon, steelhead, and crab all in one go. Remember, we provide all the gear, so all you need to bring is your license, some grub, and a good attitude. These combo trips are customer favorites and tend to fill up fast, especially during peak seasons. So if you're ready to experience some of the best fishing the Pacific Northwest has to offer, don't wait. Give us a call or hop online to book your spot. Trust me, once you've felt the pull of a big Chinook on your line or tasted fresh-caught Dungeness crab, you'll be planning your next trip before you even get back to shore. See you on the water!