As the season winds down and we have a moment to reflect, we feel so blessed to come away with immeasurable wonderful memories from the river this year! Old friends and new friends, we all shared lots of laughs, special moments and memories that will last a lifetime. A big thank you to everyone who spent time with us on the river this year!
The Rogue River showed us some of the best fishing we have seen in years this fall season. The half-pounder (first year) steelhead counts were three-and-a-half times the ten-year average along with the adult steelhead numbers being substantially higher as well. The positive impacts from the dam removal projects on the Rogue are very apparent and we are so pleased with the healthier ecosystem it has created. Our guides had a great time showing guests such fun fly fishing for these energetic fish. Many of our repeat guests told us that this was the best fishing they have ever experienced on the Rogue. The riverside lodges were awesome as always this season. We love our four day lodge schedule and can always count on the friendly lodge staff to welcome us each evening. We are already getting excited for next season!
The water levels on the Middle Fork of the Salmon may have been lower than average this summer but that never took away from the amazing experiences it provided for our guests. The Middle Fork is such a magical place and little can get in the way of enjoying every day you’re on the water. The scenery, fishing, hiking and overall experience that the river offers guarantees an amazing experience to everyone who floats it. Each group who joined us on the river this summer left with lifelong memories, huge smiles and even some tears of joy. We had such a fun variety of groups this summer with guests of all ages from near and far. Guests of any age have fun on this trip but it is our young guests who become our favorites. Seeing the river through the eyes of a child is really special. Their amazement and the constant learning that they experience, impacts everyone on the trip. Disconnecting from technology for the week allows for a wonderful bonding opportunity for families as they fish, raft, hike and grow together on their river vacation.
The Main Salmon Canyon showed us lots of fun days whitewater rafting this summer! The hot dry environment of the canyon allowed for days full of swimming, playing and lounging in the warm waters of the Salmon River topped off by nights spent on the expansive white-sand beaches. Our groups were all very fond of the beautiful desert landscape and the remoteness of this wonderful three or four-day river trip while also appreciating the convenience and ease of traveling to and from this part of Idaho. The Main Salmon Canyon trip is only a 5.5 hour drive from Portland or Seattle and is also easily accessed by the Lewiston airport.
Our home river, the McKenzie is a well known favorite amongst our guests.
Many of our guests who have joined us on our multi-day trips come to the McKenzie to spend a day or two on the water with their favorite guides. The McKenzie is a beautiful place for a short getaway and provides the perfect opportunity to hone in their fly fishing skills. We had a full season on the McKenzie this year with trips starting in April and just wrapping up now at the end of October. One of the best things about a trip on the McKenzie is the fish fry of your morning’s catch for lunch. Relax on the river bank, drink a glass of wine and enjoy a great lunch of hot cooked trout, fresh salads, snacks and more.
Treat yourself to a fun and relaxing day on the water! You deserve it!!