Fly Fishing FAQs for Southern Oregon

No. Many of our guests are first-time anglers who have never picked up a fly rod before. We provide patient instruction in knots, casting, line management, and safe fish handling. Beginners often surprise themselves by landing fish within their first outing. For more advanced anglers, we can focus on refining specific techniques like euro nymphing, swinging for steelhead, or presenting dry flies in technical water. Every trip is tailored to your skill level.

Fishing opportunities exist year-round, but each season offers something unique.

• Rogue River: Late May through early June is famous for the salmonfly hatch, which brings trout, cutthroat, and steelhead to the surface. Summer and fall are excellent for steelhead on the swing or skate, while winter can produce fresh-run steelhead when flows allow.
• Klamath Basin: Late spring through summer is prime time for targeting large rainbow trout in clear, spring-fed creeks. Early fall offers great action with nymphs and dry-dropper rigs, and brown trout occasionally make an appearance.

We offer three types of charters:

• Quick Trips are best for anglers with limited time or those wanting focused instruction on casting or a specific hatch.
• Half Day Trips balance learning and fishing within a shorter timeframe, making them great for families or beginners.
• Full Day Trips give us time to explore multiple river sections, switch tactics, and maximize your chances at landing memorable fish.

If you’re unsure, contact us with your goals and schedule — we’ll recommend the best fit.

Every charter includes rods, reels, terminal tackle, and flies. Snacks and beverages are provided on Quick and Half Day trips, while Full Day trips include a prepared riverside lunch. Waders and boots can be arranged with advance notice. Instruction and guiding are always included at no extra cost.

Please bring:

• A valid Oregon fishing license
• Polarized sunglasses
• Season-appropriate layered clothing
• Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, lip balm)
• Any medications or personal items you may need

If you have your own rod, reel, or waders, feel free to bring them. Otherwise, we’ll provide all essential equipment.

Yes. On the Rogue River, we frequently use boats to access water and cover long stretches. Walk-wade fishing is also an option, especially in areas with productive riffles and runs. In the Klamath Basin, most fishing is walk-wade to protect delicate waters and focus on technical presentations. We’ll choose the format that best matches your comfort, mobility, and goals.

Yes. Children are welcome with a participating adult. We adjust instruction to match age and attention span, making sure the day stays safe and fun. Many families find a Half Day trip works best for younger anglers. Life jackets are always available and encouraged.

Safety always comes first. If weather or flows create unsafe conditions, your guide will make the call to adjust timing, switch locations, or reschedule. You won’t be asked to fish in conditions that put you or the resource at risk. Clear communication before your trip ensures you know the plan and options.

Final policies are provided at booking, but standard guidelines include:

• A cancellation window with fees applied if canceled inside the timeframe
• Catch-and-release as the default practice, with barbless hooks where appropriate
• Weather and safety decisions made by the guide
• Alcohol use discouraged during fishing
• Families welcome, with minors accompanied by an adult

If conditions prevent fishing, we’ll work with you to reschedule or adjust.

Meeting points depend on the river and conditions. Common Rogue River meetups include Shady Cove, TouVelle State Recreation Area, and Dodge Bridge. In the Klamath Basin, we often meet near the Williamson River, Spring Creek, or the Wood River. Exact meeting details are confirmed during booking and again the day before your trip.

Trips are private and designed for singles, pairs, or small groups. This allows us to give every angler personal attention and maximize instruction time. For larger families or groups, contact us in advance — we can sometimes arrange for additional guides to accommodate everyone.

Yes. All anglers must carry a valid Oregon fishing license on the day of the trip. You can purchase licenses online in advance or at local retailers. If you’re unsure, we’ll guide you through the process before your trip.