River Information

Smith and Chetco Rivers

We would like to invite you to experience Northern California and Southern Oregon's Trophy Salmon and Steelhead fishing. Our guides are extremely qualified with lots of experience, all are licensed, bonded and insured in both states. We are all familiar with the deep holding pools and the best riffles where the mighty Salmon and Steelhead elude the novice. Hundreds of such "spots" are totally inaccessible except by boat.

A day of fishing on the Smith River and Chetco Rivers, usually starts by putting on the river around 7:00 am. We start up river and float down covering six to ten miles of river. Getting off the river around 4:00 pm. All rods, tackle, and bait are supplied.

The comfort and ease of these trips truly affords a vacation after which you will feel rested and refreshed and again ready to tackle the problems of civilization. The ease of these trips make it ideal for the ladies and persons of advanced age to enjoy the scenic beauty and have a better chance at catching a Salmon or Steelhead.

We use double-ended drift boats. For your comfort we have installed propane heaters in our drift boats to take off the chill sometimes found on the rivers. Many anglers consider drift boats to be the ultimate river craft. Our drift boats are the best for accessing the “drift-only” waters of the rivers we fish.

A day on the river is very picturesque one. The rivers in California wind through some of the worlds tallest trees. Redwood, Port Orford Cedar, Douglas Fir and Spruce. Rose-bay Rhododendron often climb nearly 40' feet, dotted with green leaves and pink to purple flowers. It is not uncommon to see several species of wild life, on all the Fishing trips. In spring, wake robin and oxalis flowers colorfully appear on the forest floor. With all this beauty around you, you will want to bring your camera.

What to Bring With You on Your Day of Fishing… Trips operate rain or shine. Dress comfortably and warm for the out-of-doors. On a one day trip, you need only to bring appropriate license, lunch, and rain gear. It is always best to layer your clothes and dress warmly. On a four day, Rogue Canyon trip you need to bring appropriate clothes - cool mornings and evenings, license, rain gear, and your appetite - we provide all meals, beer and wine. Other Recommended items include camera, extra film, sunglasses, extra sweater or fleece, gloves, binoculars, and a brimmed hat.

Prices: For a day Fishing trip on the Smith River in California or Chetco River in Oregon: $200 per person for two person trips. It is $300 for 1 person only, single person trips.

River Flows

Rogue River Trip Information

Catch fighting fall-run steelhead on light fly fishing tackle by day—spend your nights in comfortable, rustic lodges. The Rogue River begins high in the Cascade Mountains near Crater Lake, and varies from peaceful sun-warmed fishing waters to churning whitewater as it carves its way to the Pacific Ocean. Eighty four miles of this remarkable river are so breath-taking they’re now protected by the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act.

Experience an unforgettable fishing journey, through the “Wild and Scenic” portion of Oregon’s legendary Rogue River. This trip has been popular with guests since 1931. The legacy continues as newcomers enjoy the same spectacular scenery and unspoiled wilderness. Guests appreciate old growth Douglas fir forests, deep canyons and multitudes of wildlife including otter, black bear, deer, osprey and bald eagles.

We travel 42 miles west in maneuverable drift boats through the Coast Range to Foster Bar near Agnes. You’ll get a first hand look at Raine Falls, Zane Grey’s cabin, Coffee Pot Canyon and Blossom Bar rapid.

The Rogue River offers a unique opportunity to catch fall run steelhead and salmon on lures and flies. Even the most experienced fishermen will be challenged by the great sport of landing these fighters on light tackle. In drift boats, placid fishing waters are easily reached by skilled boats men.

Nights are spent in comfortable wilderness lodges with your own private sleeping accommodations for couples or singles. Groups dine on hardy family style meals served by lodge staff. Each lodge offers its own distinct character which adds a memorable element to the trips.  Lunch stops along the river allow time to relax and explore the area.

The Rogue River Canyon Fishing trips in Oregon, are 3 days and 2 nights. The price for these trips include all meals, wine and beer, and all lodging. Please contact me for further information. These trips are booked well in advance. 

Link to Helfrich Outfitters for Rogue Trips

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