Oregon Fly Fishing Reports
River Reports - Click a river below
Deschutes River – Biggs
Deschutes River – Culver
Deschutes River – Madras
Hood River – Tucker
John Day River – McDonald’s Ferry
John Day River – Service Creek
Klickitat River – Pitt
Nehalem River – Foss
Nehalem River – Vernonia
Owyhee River – Below Owyhee
Rogue River – McLeod
Sandy River – Below Bull Run
Sandy River – Marmot
White River – Below Tygh Valley
Williamson River – Chiloquin
Wilson River – Tillamook
Wood River – Klamath Agency
State overview
Oregon is a top destination for fly fishing, with its diverse landscape of rivers, lakes, and streams. From the famous Deschutes River, known for its steelhead runs, to the remote mountain streams full of trout, anglers can experience year-round fishing. The state is home to a variety of species, including rainbow trout, brown trout, steelhead, and salmon. Oregon’s stunning natural beauty, combined with its well-managed fisheries, makes it a paradise for fly fishers of all skill levels.
Fishing Regulations
To fish in Oregon, anglers aged 12 and older need a fishing license. Additional tags are required for specific species such as salmon and steelhead. In most areas, anglers are restricted to artificial lures and single-point barbless hooks, especially when targeting species like salmon and steelhead.
Key regulations include:
- Trout: The general trout season runs year-round, but local rules may apply. Catch limits and sizes vary by waterbody, so always check the zone-specific regulations.
- Salmon and Steelhead: Fishing seasons and daily bag limits vary across Oregon’s rivers. In general, anglers are allowed one salmon or steelhead per day, with specific restrictions based on location.
- Bass: Anglers may catch smallmouth and largemouth bass year-round. There is no size limit in most areas, and daily bag limits may vary by zone.
- Barbless Hooks: In certain waters, such as the Columbia River, barbless hooks are required when fishing for salmon, steelhead, or sturgeon.
Always consult the Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife for the latest updates and specific zone rules.
Conservation Efforts
Oregon is home to a number of conservation initiatives aimed at protecting its fish populations and habitats. The Oregon Conservation Strategy is a key plan focused on conserving Oregon’s native fish and wildlife through science-backed restoration efforts. This strategy addresses priority species, such as salmon and steelhead, and key habitats like rivers and wetlands.
Projects like the Klamath River Restoration are working to remove dams and restore over 400 miles of habitat for migratory fish. Organizations such as the FlyFishers’ Club of Oregon and the Native Fish Society are also actively involved in conserving wild fish populations, promoting sustainable fishing practices, and restoring habitats.