Oregon is a fly fishing paradise, with crystal clear rivers and stunning scenery that make it an angler’s dream destination. From trout to steelhead, the state has a variety of fish species that can be caught with a fly rod. In this blog post, we’ll highlight four of the best waters in Oregon for fly fishing, along with the fish species that can be caught there and the nearby towns and tourist attractions.
- Deschutes River
The Deschutes River is one of Oregon’s most popular fly fishing destinations. It’s a 252-mile-long river that starts in the Cascade Mountains and flows into the Columbia River. The river is known for its wild rainbow trout, which can be caught using dry flies, nymphs, or streamers. The river is also home to steelhead, which migrate upstream from the ocean between July and November.
The nearest town to the Deschutes River is Maupin, a small town with a population of around 400 people. Maupin is a popular tourist destination, with several restaurants, shops, and outdoor activities such as rafting, hiking, and camping. The nearest airport to Maupin is the Portland International Airport, which is about a 2-hour drive away.
- Rogue River
The Rogue River is another fantastic fly fishing destination in Oregon. The river is located in southwestern Oregon and is known for its summer steelhead runs, as well as its resident cutthroat, rainbow, and brown trout. The river can be fished from a drift boat or by wading in the river.
The nearest town to the Rogue River is Medford, a city with a population of around 82,000 people. Medford is a hub for outdoor recreation, with easy access to hiking trails, mountain biking, and water sports. The city also has several wineries, museums, and restaurants to explore. The Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport is located in Medford, making it an easy destination to fly into.
- McKenzie River
The McKenzie River is a beautiful river located in the Willamette National Forest. The river is known for its trout fishing, with rainbow and cutthroat trout being the most common species. The river can be fished from a drift boat or by wading in the river.
The nearest town to the McKenzie River is Eugene, a city with a population of around 170,000 people. Eugene is known for its vibrant arts scene, with several galleries and museums to explore. The city is also home to the University of Oregon, which has a beautiful campus and several sporting events throughout the year. The Eugene Airport is the nearest airport to the McKenzie River, which is about a 1-hour drive away.
- Crooked River
The Crooked River is a tailwater fishery located in central Oregon. The river is known for its large population of wild rainbow trout, which can be caught using nymphs or dry flies. The river can be fished from a drift boat or by wading in the river.
The nearest town to the Crooked River is Bend, a city with a population of around 100,000 people. Bend is a popular tourist destination, with several outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and mountain biking. The city also has several breweries, restaurants, and shops to explore. The nearest airport to Bend is the Redmond Municipal Airport, which is about a 20-minute drive away.
Other Oregon Tourist Attractions
Oregon is a wonderful destination for families who love the outdoors and want to experience the beauty of nature. In addition to the fantastic fishing opportunities, there are a variety of other tourist attractions that offer outdoor activities and adventures.
One of the most popular outdoor attractions in Oregon is Crater Lake National Park. This stunning park is home to Crater Lake, which is the deepest lake in the United States. Families can hike around the rim of the lake, take a boat tour, or explore the surrounding forests and mountains. The park also offers camping and lodging options for visitors who want to spend more time in the area.
Another outdoor attraction that families will love is the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area. This unique landscape is made up of massive sand dunes that stretch for miles along the coast. Families can explore the dunes on foot, by ATV, or by dune buggy. The area also offers opportunities for camping, hiking, and beachcombing.
For families interested in museums and cultural attractions, the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry is a must-visit destination. The museum features hands-on exhibits and interactive displays that explore a variety of scientific topics, from outer space to marine life. Kids will love the planetarium, where they can see the stars and learn about astronomy.
Another great museum for families is the Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum. This museum is home to a collection of vintage aircraft, as well as several space artifacts, including the famous Spruce Goose airplane. Families can explore the exhibits and even take a ride in a flight simulator.
In conclusion, Oregon is a fly fishing paradise with several rivers and lakes to explore. Each of the four waters highlighted in this blog post offers a unique fishing experience, along with nearby towns that offer plenty of tourist attractions. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, Oregon is a fantastic destination for fly fishing.
If you enjoyed this post, then check out this one with more fly fishing places in the USA.