Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

Nehalem River - Foss - Oregon

Hatch Chart - Best Access/Spots - Local Fish - About

Water Flow Chart

Using Water Flow Charts & Weather Reports: Begin with our water flow charts to grasp stream velocity and volume – look for stable or rising trends to pinpoint ideal fishing times. Learn to interpret sudden spikes or drops, which can indicate potential challenges. Next, consult our weather reports to understand ambient conditions. Pairing the two, you can anticipate fish behavior, choose the right gear, and select the best fishing spots. Use these tools together for a holistic approach to your next fishing adventure.

In-Depth Weather

Directions To Location

Hatch Chart

Month Hatch Time of Day Recommended Fly Sizes Popular Fly Patterns
January Midges Morning to afternoon #18-22 Zebra Midges
Blue Winged Olives Afternoon #16-20 Blue Winged Olive Parachute
February Midges Morning to Afternoon #18-22 Zebra Midges
Blue Winged Olives Afternoon #16-20 Blue Winged Olive Parachute
March Skwala Stoneflies Afternoon to Dusk #8-10 Skwala Adults, Pat's Rubber Leg
Blue Winged Olives Afternoon #16-20 Blue Winged Olive Parachute
April Skwala Stoneflies Afternoon to Dusk #8-10 Skwala Adults, Pat's Rubber Leg
Blue Winged Olives Afternoon #16-20 Blue Winged Olive Parachute
Caddis Afternoon to Dusk #14-16 Elk Hair Caddis
May Caddis Afternoon to Dusk #14-16 Elk Hair Caddis
Salmonflies and Golden Stones All Day #4-6 Chubby Chernobyl, Rogue Foam Stonefly
Green Drakes Afternoon #10-12 Green Drake Parachute, Green Drake Cripple
June Caddis Afternoon to Dusk #14-16 Elk Hair Caddis
Salmonflies and Golden Stones All Day #4-6 Chubby Chernobyl, Rogue Foam Stonefly
Yellow Sallies Afternoon to Dusk #14-16 Yellow Sally Stone
July Hopper/Cicadas All Day #8-12 Dave's Hopper, Foam Cicada
Caddis Dusk #14-16 Elk Hair Caddis
August Hopper/Cicadas All Day #8-12 Dave's Hopper, Foam Cicada
Caddis Dusk #14-16 Elk Hair Caddis
September Hopper/Cicadas All Day #8-12 Dave's Hopper, Foam Cicada
October Caddis Afternoon to Dusk #8-10 October Stimulator, Orange Elk Hair Caddis
October October Caddis Afternoon to Dusk #8-10 October Stimulator, Orange Elk Hair Caddis
Blue Winged Olives Afternoon #16-20 Blue Winged Olive Parachute
November Midges Morning #18-22 Zebra Midges
Blue Winged Olives Afternoon #16-20 Blue Winged Olive Parachute
December Midges Morning to Afternoon #18-22 Zebra Midges
Blue Winged Olives Afternoon #16-20 Blue Winged Olive Parachute

While we strive to ensure the precision of our hatch charts, some reflect broader river region insights. Through ongoing partnerships with local guides and fly shops, we’re committed to refining our data. Should you notice any inconsistencies or have feedback, we welcome you to reach out. 

Best Fishing Spots

The Nehalem River – Foss is bountiful with vibrant fish populations. It serves as an excellent spot for fly fishing owing to its pristine scenery and advanced fishing conditions.

Highlights include:

  • Foss – Nehalem Bay State Park: This part of the river is teeming with salmon and steelhead. The park provides an excellent casting platform for fly-fishers. Fishing is best in late summer and fall.
  • Harborview Park – Garibaldi: An exceptional spot for chasing the big Chinook or the elusive Coho Salmon. Try fly fishing near the mouth of the river during high tide.
  • Corbett Park: This is an ideal spot along the Foss River for catching Steelhead. The river’s upper sections are usually less crowded, offering a tranquil fly fishing experience.

Ensure compliance with local fishing regulations pertaining to seasons, catch limits, and gear restrictions.

Best Access Points

The Nehalem River in Foss offers some of the finest places to fly fish. Here are the top spots you should consider:

  • Lower Nehalem River: Provides the most access points for fly fishermen. It is populated with species like steelhead, Chinook, and Coho salmon.
  • Alder Creek: This place is preferred during the summer season. Even here, you can catch Chinook and Coho salmon.
  • Miami River: This tributary to the Nehalem River offers a great deal of fish like steelhead and Cutthroat trout.
  • Fishhawk Lake: A suitable spot to catch rainbow and brown trout.

Nehalem River – Foss is easily accessed by Highway 26, further supplemented by logging roads which aid to reach these renowned fishing spots.

Local Fish

  • Chinook Salmon: Also known as King Salmon, they are one of the most sought after fish species in the Nehalem river.
  • Winter Steelhead: A popular species targeted during the colder months. Typically, they are present in the river between November to April.
  • Chum Salmon: Known to inhabit the lower stretches of the Nehalem river, their best fishing season is late fall.
  • Summer Steelhead: These fish can be found throughout the summer, they maintain a strong hold in the Cradle Run and the Ghost Hole.
  • Coho Salmon: Also known as Silver Salmon, these fish provide exciting sport for anglers especially during their run in fall.
  • Sea-Run Cutthroat Trout: While not as common as the other species, they can be found in the river, especially during late summer and fall.
  • Resident Rainbow Trout: Available all year round, they offer the opportunity for fly fishing during off-peak seasons.
  • Resident Cutthroat Trout: Found in the upper reaches of the Nehalem River, these fish are targeted by anglers year-round.

About The River

The Nehalem River – a beauty nestled in the Pacific Northwest’s Oregon – boasts a rich history drawing in historians, adventurers, and nature lovers alike. Early Chinookan tribes were known to settle along this river, soaked in serene wilderness. It was later discovered by European explorers in 1792, adding a European flavor to its already diverse history.

What makes the Nehalem fascinating? Here’s a run-down:

  • The area was a key source for timber and fish, contributing to its economic importance.
  • The river – spanning over 119 miles, enchants with captivating geology marked by a mix of basalt and sandstone formations.
  • From the Nehalem Bay State Park to the Foss region, the river promises breath-taking wildlife viewing opportunities.
  • It is also heralded for its recreational prospects, offering canoeing, fishing, and camping escapades.

Bask in the charms of the Nehalem River – Foss, a hidden gem marrying history and nature with thrilling adventures!

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