rogue river fishing report

Rogue River Fishing Report: Latest Updates and Tips for Anglers

Rogue River Fishing Report

The Rogue River is a popular destination for anglers looking to catch Chinook salmon, steelhead, and trout. The river runs for 215 miles through southwestern Oregon, starting at Crater Lake National Park and ending at the Pacific Ocean. Fishing on the Rogue River has been good in recent months , with anglers reporting plenty of bites and catches.

Chinook Salmon Fishing

If you’re looking to catch Chinook salmon on the Rogue River, now is a great time to do so. The Chinook salmon run typically starts in August and lasts until November, so anglers still have plenty of time to catch these fish. In the upper Rogue River, salmon are more abundant near Gold Hill and Grants Pass. On the lower section of the river, the best spots are near Agness and Gold Beach.

Anglers fishing for Chinook salmon should target deeper pools and runs, as these fish tend to stay in deeper water. Live bait such as salmon eggs or herring can be effective, as can lures such as spinnerbaits or jigs. Fly fishing is also an option, with large streamers and wooly buggers being popular choices.

Steelhead Fishing

Steelhead fishing on the Rogue River is also popular, with good numbers of these fish present in the river. Steelhead are anadromous, meaning they spend part of their life in the ocean before returning to freshwater to spawn. They typically run from November to March, with some late-run fish sticking around until May.

The best spots for steelhead fishing are typically in the middle and upper sections of the river, near towns such as Shady Cove and Medford. Anglers should target riffles and deeper pools, using bait such as worms or eggs. Lures such as spinners and jigs can also be effective.

Trout Fishing

If you’re looking to catch trout on the Rogue River, there are plenty of opportunities to do so. The river is home to both rainbow and cutthroat trout, with some brown trout also present. Trout fishing on the Rogue River can be good year-round, although the summer months tend to be the most popular.

The best spots for trout fishing are typically in the upper section of the river, near the headwaters. Fly fishing is a popular method for catching trout, with dry flies and nymphs being effective. Anglers can also use bait such as worms or salmon eggs, or lures such as spinners or spoons.

Conclusion

The Rogue River is a great destination for anglers looking to catch a variety of fish. Whether you’re targeting Chinook salmon, steelhead, or trout, there are plenty of opportunities to have a successful day on the water. With good fishing reported in recent months, now is a great time to plan a trip to the Rogue River.

Fishing Conditions

The Rogue River, located in southern Oregon, is a top-rated spot for fishing enthusiasts. The river provides an opportunity for fishing throughout the year, but the fishing conditions vary with the changing weather, water temperature, and river flow. So, if you are planning a fishing trip to the Rogue River, it is essential to be aware of the current conditions for a successful outing. Here is a detailed fishing report on the current conditions in Rogue River.

Weather Conditions

The weather condition varies with season in Rogue River. In the winter season, the temperatures are relatively low, ranging from 30 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Winter months are also rainy, and it might be difficult for fishing enthusiasts to navigate through the river. Spring season in Rogue River is mild, and the temperature ranges between 40 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. During summer months, the temperatures in the Rogue River can rise to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. The summer season is also good for fishing with dry fly and nymph. Fall season in Rogue River is mild, and the temperature ranges between 40 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

Water Temperature

The water temperature in Rogue River depends on the season. In winter months, the water temperature can drop down to 40 degrees Fahrenheit. The water temperature rises to 50 degrees Fahrenheit in the spring season which is an ideal temperature for fishing. During summer months, the water temperature can reach up to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Anglers should note that water temperatures above 70 degrees Fahrenheit can be stressful for fish and can result in mortality. In fall season, the water temperature ranges between 50 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit.

River Flow

The river flow in Rogue River changes with season and weather. In winter months, the river flow is usually high due to the rainfall, and the water currents can be strong. In spring, the river flow typically increases due to the snow melting from mountains. Summer months have lower river flow, leading to clear waters and making it easier to fish. The fall season often brings increased river flow from autumnal rain, but not as high as the winter season.

Other Factors

Other factors that may affect fishing conditions in Rogue River include the type of bait used, the time of day, lighting, and the species of fish you are trying to catch. Use of bait, spinner lures, or fly depends on your fishing goal. Early morning (dawn) and late evening (dusk) are ideal times to fish in Rogue River. Also, the lighting of the day may affect the type of bait to use. For example, cloudy days are good for using brighter baits. Lastly, the type of fish you want to catch will also determine the ideal location, technique, bait, and gear to use.

In conclusion, there are many fishing opportunities available in Rogue River. However, it is crucial to understand the current fishing conditions in order to have a successful fishing experience. By keeping in mind the weather, water temperature and the river flow, along with other factors, you will increase your chances of catching more fish in Rogue River.

What’s Biting?

If you’re planning a fishing trip to Rogue River, you’re in for a treat! The river is home to a variety of fish species that are sure to put up a good fight. Let’s take a look at the different types of fish that you can expect to find, along with the baits and lures that work best for each species.

1. Chinook Salmon

Chinook salmon is one of the most popular fish species found in the Rogue River. These large fish are known for their power and speed, making them a challenging catch for any angler. The best baits and lures for chinook salmon are eggs, sand shrimp, and plugs. Fishing for chinook salmon is best in the fall and winter months when they are most active.

2. Steelhead Trout

Steelhead trout are another popular fish species found in the Rogue River. These fish are known for their acrobatic jumps and hard-fighting nature, making them a favorite among anglers. The best baits and lures for steelhead trout are beads, yarn, and jigs. Fishing for steelhead trout is best in the winter and spring months when they are most active.

3. Smallmouth Bass

Smallmouth bass are a popular sportfish found in the Rogue River. These fish are known for their aggressive nature and hard hits, making them a fun catch for any angler. The best baits and lures for smallmouth bass are jigs, worms, and crankbaits. Fishing for smallmouth bass is best in the summer and fall months when they are most active.

4. Shad

Shad are a smaller fish species found in the Rogue River. These fish are known for their fast-paced runs and acrobatic jumps, making them a fun catch for any angler. The best baits and lures for shad are spoons, jigs, and spinners. Fishing for shad is best in the spring and summer months when they are most active.

5. Cutthroat Trout

Cutthroat trout are a smaller fish species found in the Rogue River. These fish are known for their beautiful colors and elusive nature, making them a unique catch for any angler. The best baits and lures for cutthroat trout are dry flies, nymphs, and small spinners. Fishing for cutthroat trout is best in the summer and fall months when they are most active.

No matter what fish species you’re targeting, the Rogue River has something for every angler. With the right bait and lure selection and a bit of patience, you can have a successful fishing trip on the Rogue River. Good luck and tight lines!

Fishing Techniques

Fishing at Rogue River can be an incredible experience for any angler. However, understanding the best fishing techniques to use can make all the difference in your success on the water. Here are some tips and tricks to help you improve your chances of catching fish:

1. Drift Fishing

The most popular and effective technique for fishing for steelhead on the Rogue River is drift fishing. It involves presenting bait or a lure in a controlled manner using the flow of the river. You will want to use a long rod combined with a spinning reel to cast upstream and allow your bait to drift naturally down with the current. By following the water’s natural flow, you can position your presentation in front of waiting steelhead.

2. Fly Fishing

Fly fishing in Rogue River can be a highly successful technique, especially for catching salmon and steelhead. You will need to use specific gear that allows you to cast an artificial fly using a weighted line. You can then retrieve or drift the fly through the water, enticing fish to strike. Make sure to use a fly pattern that is commonly found in the area.

3. Spin Fishing

Spin fishing at Rogue River is also a popular way to catch salmon and steelhead. For this technique, you will use a shorter rod combined with a spinning or baitcasting reel, along with a lure that mimics the natural prey of the fish you are targeting.

4. Side Drifting

Side drifting is another highly effective technique for catching salmon and steelhead on Rogue River. This technique involves presenting a bait or lure close to the bottom of the river using a side-planer. This allows for complete control of the depth and drift of your bait, increasing your chances of enticing fish to bite.

5. Bottom Bouncing

Bottom bouncing is a technique that is commonly used for catching smaller fish on Rogue River. It involves casting your bait upstream and allowing it to bounce along the bottom of the river as it drifts downstream. This technique is effective because it keeps your bait near the river’s bottom, which is where many fish tend to feed.

Remember to always check the regulations for fishing on Rogue River before heading out. Using any of these techniques in combination with the right fishing gear and fresh bait can significantly increase your chances of catching fish on Rogue River.

Popular Fishing Spots

The Rogue River, located in Southern Oregon, is world-famous for its salmon and steelhead fishing. It is a year-round fishery that offers a variety of fishing opportunities. Here are some of the most popular fishing spots in Rogue River:

1. Gold Ray Dam

The Gold Ray Dam, located just north of Gold Hill, is a popular spot for fishing. The dam was decommissioned in 2010, but the dam’s structure still provides excellent fishing opportunities. The area is known for its abundant salmon and steelhead runs. Casting from the rocks is a popular method for catching fish, but be careful as the rocks can be slippery.

2. Touvelle State Recreation Site

The Touvelle State Recreation Site, located just north of Central Point, is a popular spot for fly fishing. The area is known for its beautiful scenery and clear water. The park has a well-maintained boat ramp, making it easy to get your boat in and out of the water. Be sure to bring your waders as the water can be chilly.

3. Casey State Recreation Site

The Casey State Recreation Site, located near White City, is a popular spot for bank fishing. The area is known for its abundant steelhead runs. The park has a well-maintained trail that leads to the river, making it easy to get to your fishing spot. Be sure to bring your fishing gear and a good pair of hiking shoes.

4. Dodge Bridge

The Dodge Bridge, located near Eagle Point, is a popular spot for drift fishing. The area is known for its abundant salmon and steelhead runs. The bridge provides excellent access to the river, making it easy to fish from the shore or from a drift boat. Be sure to bring your fishing gear and a good pair of wading boots.

5. Agness

The town of Agness, located near the coast, is a popular spot for salmon fishing. The area is known for its abundant Chinook and Coho salmon runs. There are several fishing guides in the area that can take you on a guided fishing trip. Be sure to bring your fishing gear and dress for the weather as the coast can be chilly.

No matter where you choose to fish on the Rogue River, be sure to bring your fishing gear, a fishing license, and be prepared for changing weather conditions. Happy fishing!

Boat Ramps

Fishing in the Rogue River can be an unforgettable experience for anyone who loves nature and the thrill of catching fish. The river, located in southwestern Oregon, is home to different species of fish, including salmon, trout, and steelhead. To ensure that fishing enthusiasts can easily access the river and experience the best of fishing, several boat ramps have been constructed along the river. These boat ramps are accessible to both experienced and novice anglers, as well as recreational visitors who want to enjoy a day trip along the river.

1. Galice Resort

Galice Resort is one of the most popular boat ramps along the Rogue River. It offers easy access to fishing spots for salmon, steelhead, and trout. The ramp is ADA accessible and has ample space for parking and unloading boats. Visitors can also rent boats and fishing gear at the resort, making it a one-stop-shop for all their fishing needs. With a restaurant, bar, and lodging facilities, Galice Resort is an excellent option for fishing enthusiasts looking to stay overnight.

2. Grave Creek

Grave Creek is a BLM (Bureau of Land Management) operated site, perfect for launching boats and accessing great fishing spots. The ramp is a bit steep, but it’s in good condition and manageable. Visitors can park their cars nearby and launch boats with ease. The site has picnic areas, restrooms, and fishing piers. Fishermen can also access exciting fishing spots like Randolf Creek, Skunk Creek and the Grave Creek itself, which provide an excellent opportunity to catch Chinook salmon, steelhead, or trout.

3. Hog Creek

Hog Creek is another popular boat ramp along the Rogue River, located between Galice and Merlin. It is usually less crowded than other boat ramps, making it perfect for anglers looking for a peaceful fishing experience. The ramp is well-maintained and accommodates both motorboats and rafts. Hog Creek has parking facilities, restroom and picnic facilities, providing a good experience for anglers who want to stay for longer hours.

4. Casey State Park

Casey State Park is one of the newer ramps on the Rogue River. It was built in 2011 and is located between Agness and Gold Beach. The park features a modern ramp that makes launching boats easy, and parking spaces for cars and boats. There are two docks – one for motorboats and the other for rafts or kayaks. The park also features picnic areas and restrooms, making it a great place to spend a day on the river.

5. Gold Beach

Gold beach is situated at the mouth of the Rogue River, and it offers great fishing spots for Chinook salmon, steelhead, and cutthroat trout. The boat ramp is of a modern design and has sufficient parking. Visitors can rent boats or fishing equipment from the nearby establishments. Gold beach is also a great place to fish from shore, with accessible fishing platforms close to the mouth of the river.

6. Lobster Creek

The Lobster Creek boat ramp offers an excellent fishing opportunity in the lower Rogue River. It provides access to the great fishing spots of the lower Rogue that are challenging to access on foot or from shore. The ramp is easy to use and requires no special expertise. Visitors can park their vehicles and enjoy an exciting day of fishing. There are also picnic areas and restroom facilities for visitors to enjoy.

In conclusion, fishing in the Rogue River is an excellent opportunity to experience the beauty of nature and catch fish. With a variety of boat ramps to choose from, visitors to the river can find the perfect location that meets their needs. Each boating facility has its unique features with provisions for parking, picnic areas, restrooms and different types of fishing available. With the information shared above, anglers can plan their next River fishing expedition with ease.

Regulations and Licensing

Fishing is an exciting outdoor activity and a great way to connect with nature. However, when fishing on Rogue River, it is essential to be aware of the guidelines and regulations set by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW). These guidelines not only ensure sustainable fishing practices but also protect the fish population and their habitat. Below is a comprehensive guide on the regulations and licensing required to fish in Rogue River.

Fishing License

Before fishing on Rogue River, all anglers must have a valid Oregon fishing license issued by ODFW. In addition, they need a Combined Angling Tag (CAT) and a Hatchery Harvest Tag (HHT), which allows them to harvest fish from the hatchery and is only valid in certain areas. The cost of the license and tags varies depending on the angler’s residency and age. Additionally, fishing is prohibited without a license, and penalties can be imposed if caught fishing without one.

Bag and Possession Limits

Anglers must follow bag and possession limits on Rogue River. Bag limits refer to how many fish an angler can harvest in a single day, while possession limits define the total number of fish in an angler’s possession at any given time. The current regulations state that the bag limit for salmon, steelhead, and trout is two or five, depending on the area of the river. Meanwhile, the possession limit is three times the daily bag limit. It is vital to adhere to these limits to protect the fish population and ensure sustainable fishing practices.

Size Regulations

Size regulations on Rogue River refer to the size of the fish anglers can harvest. The reason behind these regulations is to ensure that undersized fish are not harvested, allowing them to mature. The current size regulations state that any Chinook salmon less than 24 inches and steelhead less than 20 inches long must be released unharmed. Undersized trout should also be released unharmed. In contrast, any oversized fish should be reported to ODFW.

Barbless Hooks

Anglers must use barbless hooks when fishing on Rogue River. Barbless hooks easily slide out of a fish’s mouth, making it easier to release them unharmed. Using barbless hooks reduces fish mortality, maximizes the chances of survival when released, and complies with ODFW regulations.

No Fishing Zones

Certain areas of Rogue River are designated as no-fishing zones, and anglers should avoid such locations. These areas are set aside from fishing activities to protect fish populations or their habitat. Anglers can identify no-fishing zones by reading the signs posted along the river. It is illegal to fish in these areas, and ODFW’s enforcement officers rigorously enforce these regulations.

Fishing Seasons

Anglers can only fish on Rogue River during specific seasons. For instance, salmon and steelhead fishing usually begins in September and lasts until the end of the year. Meanwhile, trout fishing is open year-round, but sizes and bag limits may vary depending on seasons and locations. Anglers should always verify the fishing season and season-specific regulations before fishing in Rogue River.

In conclusion, fishing in Rogue River is a fun and memorable experience but must be done responsibly and according to regulations. Anglers must adhere to fishing guidelines and regulations to fish sustainably, protect fish populations and their habitats, and avoid criminal penalties. Always ensure that you are updated on the latest regulations and information before fishing on Rogue River.

Celebrate Your Catch

After all the hard work of catching fish, it’s time to celebrate. Whether it’s cooking your freshly caught salmon or steelhead or enjoying a cold beer by the river, celebrating the catch is an essential part of fishing in Rogue River. The river offers several excellent spots for a picnic, where you can grill or smoke your fish and indulge in its exquisite taste, surrounded by the calming sound of water and crisp, fresh air. Sharing your catch with friends and family is also an excellent way to celebrate and feel proud of your accomplishment.

When choosing a spot for a picnic, try to pick a location that offers a scenic view and easy access to the river. The Rogue River offers several picnic sites that are equipped with tables, benches, and barbecue grills. Some even have toilets and drinking water. Make sure to clean up after your picnic and properly dispose of your waste. As responsible anglers, we should leave no trace and maintain a clean environment for everyone to enjoy.

Celebrating your catch doesn’t have to be limited to cooking and eating your fish. You can also capture the moment by taking pictures of your catch. Nowadays, smartphones make it easy to take high-quality pictures of your fish without having to carry bulky cameras. Make sure to take photos of the fish in its natural habitat, whether you caught it in the river or on a boat. Take multiple photos from different angles to capture all the details and colors of the fish, and don’t forget to smile in the pictures to show off your fishing prowess.

When sharing your catch photos on social media or with friends and family, make sure to follow the rules and regulations of Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife and the river’s management. Always release wild fish and minimize damage to the fish when handling, taking photos, and releasing them back into the river.

Celebrating your catch is an excellent way to end a day of fishing in Rogue River, and it will leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.

Conclusion

Fishing in Rogue River is an adventure that every angler should experience at least once in their lifetime. The river offers excellent opportunities to catch steelhead and salmon, surrounded by stunning scenery, wildlife, and a tranquil atmosphere. However, to make the most out of your fishing trip, it’s essential to prepare, plan, and equip yourself with the right gear and knowledge.

Knowing the best time to fish, the regulations, and the techniques used to catch fish in the river will significantly increase your chances of success. The Rogue River Lodge offers guided fishing tours for those who want to explore the river with a professional guide and enjoy a scenic and productive fishing trip.

Being respectful of the environment, the wildlife, and other anglers is also critical to ensure that everyone enjoys the river and its natural beauty. Carrying out your waste and leaving no trace is a must for every angler. The river is fragile, but with everyone’s effort, we can maintain its pristine condition and enjoy its bounty.

Lastly, celebrating your catch is an excellent way to end your fishing trip and create memories that will last a lifetime. Whether it’s cooking your fish, taking pictures, or sharing your catch with friends and family, commemorating your fishing experience is essential and joyful. So pack your gear, book your stay, and come explore the Rogue River – an adventure awaits!