Rogue Steelhead On the Fly
COVID 19 Update: I strive to conduct my operation as safe as I can. Until further notice, I will not be providing lunches or beverages for guests. Due to local mandate, all guests are required to wear a face covering in the boat and, when possible, are requested to drive their personal vehicle to the boat launch. I will arrange and pay for SW Shuttle Service to shuttle your vehicle to the take out. Please email or call me if you have any questions.
“This is my favorite trip of the year; its why I have been coming for five years now!” -Guest Ed Riley
The Rogue River
The Rogue River is located in Southern Oregon. It flows 215 miles from Boundary Springs on the flanks of Crater Lake National park to the Pacific Ocean. It is famous for its healthy runs of both Chinook salmon and steelhead. Fly fishing on the Rogue River for summer steelhead was made popular in the early 1900’s by adventure writer Zane Grey.
Techniques and Timing
Rogue river summer steelhead are some of the most abundant steelhead in the Northwest. Summer steelhead season runs from mid-August through early December. Winter steelhead season begins in January and runs through mid-April.
Floating the river in a drift boat or raft provides the best access to hard to reach runs. Most full day float trips will be in the middle or upper Rogue River. The middle river is the section most close to Grants Pass and the upper section is in the Medford area. Full day float trips begin in the morning and will last until mid to late afternoon. Times depend on season and angler fitness.
The most popular and nostalgic way to target Rogue River steelhead is by swinging flies with spey rods or single hand rods. But often times dead drifting nymphs below indicators can be effective and can be much more user-friendly; especially for those who cannot or don’t like to wade.
Rates and Details
2020 Rate: $600 (accommodates up to 2 anglers)
Includes: Rods, reels, terminal tackle
Not Included: waders/boots, rain gear
Spring and Summer Trout
“This is the most fun fly fishing I have ever had.” David Griffiths
The upper Rogue River has become a haven for cutthroat and rainbow trout. Season opens May 22 and coincides with the largest hatch of the season; the salmon fly hatch. These bugs are about 3 inches in length and the trout go crazy for them.
Imagine floating down the river in my drift boat casting large, easy to see, dry flies for hungry trout. That is exactly what we will do.
It is a great trip for beginners and an experience for even the most advanced angler. Constant action all day long.
Rates and Details
2021 Rate: $500 (accommodates up to 2 anglers)
Includes: Rods, reels, and terminal tackle
Not Included: waders/boots, rain gear
Stuart Warren Fly Fishing 