Wild and Scenic Klamath River

How do you explain “wild and scenic”? You don’t. You just have to go there and take it all in. This stretch of the Klamath River Canyon runs through a federally designated wild and scenic section of river beginning in Oregon and ending in California. The Bureau of Land Management has given the Klamath River Canyon its highest scenic classification. Unique combinations of landform, water and vegetation create a continually changing landscape as it changes from desert to mountainous. Steep canyons and vertical cliffs, diverse vegetation, and the river combine to create an exceptionally peaceful visit to the river. With unique redband rainbow trout, scores of bald eagles, numerous endangered species, spectacular scenery, wild horses, and cultural and historic sites at every turn, the Klamath provides an outstanding river experience. This southern Oregon river flows through a remote pine and oak forested canyon as it transects the Cascade Range on its way to the Pacific Ocean.

And the fishing? Oh the fishing! Top water action is our primary focus for native redband rainbows. Fish are not as large as their upstream cousins but still have an 11 – 16 inch average with an occasional 20 incher. Thirty fish days are common and 50 fish days are not unrealistic. In late May and June the golden stones and salmon flies fill the sky. Fish greedily take topwater all day long. Large caddis and hopper patterns are a favorite in July, August and September and October brings on the October Caddis hatch. Of course this is just the topwater section. Nymphing and swinging streamers can also be effective. So, pick your method and start catching fish.

We fish from our rafts with fishing frames on this stretch of river. Water levels can fluctuate with dam releases but your guide will have his finger on the pulse of this dynamic stretch of the Klamath River.

Walk and wade is also available on the Wild and Scenic Klamath River if you prefer to be out of the boat.

ROE Outfitters is permitted by the Bureau of Land Management to guide this river.