The Hood River is our local water. It's the place we go when we need a quick fix
for our steelhead addiction. The Hood is a small, intimate river requiring a shorter
two-handed rod or a switch rod. While the river is small, the fish are not! Some of
the largest winter run fish we've brought to hand have come from the Hood. It can
be a challenging river though. When the water is high, the fish sit in the numerous
classic pools. However, when the flows drop, the steelhead head for the pocket
water. You have to pick the pockets of boulder gardens. Often, the fish will be
sitting in very shallow water near and around the rocks. Trying to figure out how to
get your fly to them is the fun part!
The Hood starts her journey in the snow fields and glaciers of Mount Hood's north
face. The river tumbles north towards the town of Hood River were it meets the
Columbia.
Fishing on the Hood starts to get good in September once the glaciers freeze up
and the water clears. Winter steelhead start showing up in early December and
continue to ascend the river throughout the winter. By April, summer steelhead
begin showing up. The river can be productive until the glaciers cloud up the water
in July.
I'm offering only half day walk-in trips on the Hood. So, if you're in Portland for
business and have an afternoon or morning to kill, it's a great option. Or, if you're
local and need a quick fix for your addiction, come check out the Hood.
Summer and Winter Steelhead
Hood River, Oregon
Details...
Time of Year:
December through May
Price:
Half day walk-in trip (4Hours) with one or two anglers............$275.00/day
Book Your Trip Today:
You may book on-line or check availability by clicking the BOOK NOW button
above. Or, if you would like to talk to us in person, please give us a call at
541.490.9446. We can set up your trip or answer any questions you may have.
Booking Policy
A 50% deposit is required to reserve your space. All deposits are due at the time
of your booking. Deposits are non-refundable within 60 days of the start date of
the trip.
Trips cancelled due to water conditions will be rescheduled or refunded.
What is included with your guide trip?
Snacks and beverages, and transportation from a designated meeting site. We
carry a small fly shop's worth of flies though we recommend bringing a selection
as well. C.F. Burkheimer rods equipped with Ross Reels and Airflo Fly lines will
be available for use. Waders available upon request.
What is NOT included with your guide trip?
Fishing license, alcoholic beverages, guide gratuities.
Equipment:
Rods: 11' to 13' Two-handed rods in line weights #7,#8,& #9.
Reels: Large Arbor with 150 yards of 30lb. backing.
Fly Lines: Skagit style shooting tapers with 9' to 12' T-14 sink-tips.
Tippet: 10lb. & 12Lb. Maxima Ultra Green
Flies: Large, stinger style Marabous, Intruders, & leeches in purple, black & blue,
red, pink, & orange. Smaller, heavily weighted leeches in black, purple, and pink
are key for pocket water.
Dressing for the climate:
Winter and early spring can be cold and wet. Boot-foot breathable waders, while
not necessary, are a luxury on cold winter days. We do recommend cleats for the
Hood. A pair of Stream Cleats can be the difference between an enjoyable day
and a cold swim. You'll want to layer with fleece and synthetic long underwear.
Fleece gloves and hat are a must. A Gore-tex shell will keep you warm and dry in
the worst of weather. A full change of clothing stored in a dry bag can save the day
in the case of an unexpected baptism.
Book your trip today! 541.490.9446
