Oregon, with its snowcapped Cascade peaks, lush woods, and huge desert vistas, is a trout angler’s dream. The state’s various waters offer remarkable experiences, from steelhead-filled coastal rivers to bright brook trout in high alpine lakes. Let’s look at some of the top places for the 2024 season.
Legendary Rivers
- The Deschutes River (Multiple Counties) is Oregon’s most well-known trout fishing destination. Anglers go to its various parts for monster rainbow trout, big brown trout, and the thrill of steelhead runs. Its diverse flows and breathtaking scenery provide opportunities for all types of anglers.
- Metolius River (Jefferson County): Spring-fed and clear, the Metolius is a sight-fishing heaven with huge, finely marked rainbow trout and bull trout. Its demanding settings encourage exact presentations.
- North Umpqua River (Douglas County): This famed steelhead river also has a healthy resident trout population, including rainbows, cutthroats, and the possibility of catching a bull trout. Its wild beauty is just as stunning as the fishing.
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Coastal Cutthroat and Steelhead Havens
- The Rogue River (Josephine and Curry Counties): flows from the Cascades to the Pacific and is home to a diverse range of wildlife. Depending on the season and section, fish for coastal cutthroat trout, summer and winter steelhead flows, and possibly salmon.
- Nestucca River (Tillamook County): This gorgeous coastal river has great winter steelhead runs and a large resident coastal cutthroat trout population. Enjoy the gorgeous coastal rainforest scenery while pursuing these feisty fish.
- Siuslaw River (Lane and Douglas Counties): The Siuslaw River has stunning scenery and strong flows of steelhead and coastal cutthroat trout, providing a variety of fishing possibilities throughout the year.
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- Crooked River (Jefferson and Deschutes Counties): This often-overlooked stream provides excellent fishing opportunities for huge wild rainbow and brown trout. The canyon environment and basalt beauty enhance the angling experience.
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- Willamette River (Multiple Counties): Despite passing through densely populated areas, the Willamette River supports astonishing concentrations of native cutthroat and rainbow trout. Anglers looking for a close trout fix can find it along this diversified waterway.
- Owyhee River (Malheur County): Oregon’s desert oasis offers a one-of-a-kind angling experience in a remote canyon environment. For a challenging and rewarding trip, fish for huge rainbow trout and prize brown trout.
Important Considerations
- Regulations: Oregon’s fishing rules vary by region. Always check the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (https://myodfw.com/) for the most recent licenses, rules, and season dates.
- Steelhead and Salmon: Steelhead and salmon fishing requires specific permissions. Plan ahead of time and purchase the appropriate tags.
- High Desert Waters: Eastern Oregon streams may have erratic flows and warmer summer temperatures. Before going out, be sure the water is safe.
Final Words
In 2024, Oregon will have amazing trout fishing opportunities, ranging from the famed Deschutes River to hidden jewels such as the Crooked and Owyhee rivers. Anglers can enjoy a variety of environments, from lush coastal forests to high desert canyons, with potential for steelhead, rainbow, and bull trout. Check the regulations before embarking on your fishing excursion.