| The Klickitat River in Southern Washington heads on Mt. Adams and enters the eastern end of the Columbia River Gorge from the north. Because of its glacial origin this river offers a split season. A race of very early summer steelhead enter the river June/July. As the weather warms in Mid-July the glaciers on Mt. Adams turn the river milky and it can stay that way off and on into September. In mid-September the air and water once again begin to cool. Now the fish runs begin in earnest and the river is just the right size and condition to fish with a fly rod. A mixture of Klickitat River Native Steelhead, Skamania Steelhead and Columbia River Stray Steelhead turn this river into one of the best kept secrets in the region. There are also giant Chinooks. Great fishing continues to the end of the season: November 30.
Here we can offer guided trips that will appeal to the purist fly fisher, nature seeker and numbers seeker. The Klickitat is similar in size to the Sandy River, but it is in a canyon that might be described as being more like the lower Deschutes. Steeply terraced basalt walls are sparsely covered with conifer forest. Because of annual water flows and Washington State fishing regulations, trips are limited to the period from June 1 to November 30. Small parties are best. Spaces are limited. Spey rods provide the best action. Our guides are highly skilled with a spey rods and can provide plenty of (quiet) coaching.
The "Klick" requires only moderate length casts, but a #9 rod is most comfortable. Some fish are large and often large flies produce the most strikes. The fish run is a mixture of wild and hatchery stocks. The Klickitat is easier to wade than either the Sandy or the Deschutes. However, you will want to bring adequate chest high waders and wear spiked sole shoes. Be prepared for temperatures on the cooler side. A water proof wading jacket is good to have with you.
Hot lunch is provided and did we mention that our guides are very experienced in all aspects of providing a great experience for our customers.. Expect to be well fed. Our store at Welches is within a practical driving distance from the fishing water on the Klickitat. Or we can arrange motel accommodations in the towns of Klickitat or Glenwood. You will find that fly fishing the Klickitat for steelhead is a truly memorable experience.
Spaces are extremely limited - book early.
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