The Chetco River fishing scene provides some of the best fall Chinook Salmon and winter Steelhead in Oregon! If you’re hearing this for the first time, it’s probably because the Rogue River takes all the spotlight for this region. Head out to Brookings, less than 30 miles south of Gold Beach, and discover another gem of Oregon’s southern coast.
What to Catch
Huge Chinook Salmon are what the Chetco River is famous for! Considering the size of the river, it’s unusual to have so many 40-pounders as a regular catch, with occasional 50-pounders. Catching these record-breaking specimens isn’t easy and they don’t just jump into the boat – you’ll have to find an experienced guide, who specializes in river fishing.
While Chinook take the lead in terms of weight, winter Steelhead run the show when it comes to numbers. It’s rare to come across a guide who doesn’t target them, as this is one of the few places where you can keep wild fish. Resident Cutthroat Trout are usually available in the tributaries with cooler water and fewer anglers.
As most of the fishing guides are located in Brookings, you can also choose an ocean trip. This brings more variety concerning fish species – Lingcod, Crab, Rockfish, Halibut, and Coho Salmon join the game.
How to Choose a Guide
The main difference is whether you want the river or the ocean trip. You can always check with the captain which fishing spots he goes to but there’s one simple way to figure it out – if you want a river trip, look for a guide with a drift boat; if you want an ocean trip, find a guide with a bigger engine boat.
When to Go
Chinook Salmon make their run into the bay at Brookings in the early fall. Fishing in the river is great Sep–Dec. Steelhead season starts in December, peaks in January, and holds up until March. Cutthroat Trout fishing is good in spring, and they return in late summer as well. All fishing guides are aware of the fishing regulations and they’ll know which fish can be kept and which have to be released.
Choosing the right fishing guide ensures you’ll have a successful day on the water, regardless of your previous fishing experience. Easily accessible, bountiful, and serene – that’s how the Chetco River’s fishing spots can be summarized. Explore the hidden treasure of Oregon, where the Chetco River awaits you!