Steelheading is a passion for us. There is no other place we would rather be than winter Steelheading on the Southern Oregon Coast. Why? As our coastal rivers rise and fall with winter rains, big, wild steelhead push into emerald waters, seeking refuge in glassy tail-outs and choppy riffles. Opportunities for the steelhead of a lifetime come numerous times each season.
January and February are the best months to connect with one of these powerful fish. Our primary destinations include the lower Rogue and Chetco Rivers, and we have many great secondary options nearby.
Gear Recommendations for the Oregon Coast
Rods, Reels & Lines:
We use 7-8wt switch rods and 7-9wt spey rods on the Southern Oregon Coast. We fish floating lines on the switch rods and interchangeable tip Skagit lines on the spey rods.
Leaders, Tippet & Indicators:
We usually use 10-15# Maxima tippet on the Southern Oregon Coast. Tapered leaders are not necessary.
Waders & Boots:
We use chest-high breathable waders on the Southern Oregon Coast. Spiked wading boots are recommended, but not absolutely necessary. Make sure to bring your own wading belt.
Season
January and February are the prime months for winter steelheading on the Oregon Coast.
Flies:
Nymphs:
• Black Rubberlegs, 6
• Morrish's Dirty Bird, olive, 6-8
Eggs:
• Large, weighted Glo Bugs, orange
• Thunder Eggs, orange, 6
Leeches for Swinging:
• Fox's Sleech, Black & Copper, 2
• Miller's Olive Super Spey Leech, 1
• Egg Sucking String Leech, 2
Sample Itinerary
Meeting Time & Place:
We typically meet our clients at their hotel at 7:30am.
Vehicle Considerations:
Typically we have our clients ride with us in our own vehicles. However, be prepared to follow us in your own vehicle. We may need to use your vehicle to help run our shuttle.
Wading difficulty:
We do all kinds of trips on the rivers of the southern Oregon coast.
We do walk/wade trips, jet boat trips, and float trips using our drift boats and rafts.
All trips involve wading.
The wading on these rivers is mostly over cobble bottoms and not overly challenging.
Multiple Fisheries in one Day:
There are many rivers on the southern Oregon coast.
We are always on the hunt for the best water conditions.
In a full day of fishing we might visit two or more different rivers.
Length of the Day:
Most full days conclude around 5:30pm. Half days end around 1:00pm.