%2F%2Fusers%2Fe91e2efc-5cf3-4a46-825a-1b530b93e20e%2Fratecard%2F8e31024f-5575-4b66-8771-6511f4b5c05a.jpeg&w=1200&q=75)
Hey there, angler! Ready to hit the water for some of the best salmon and trout fishing Oregon has to offer? Captain TJ Cornelison here, and I'm itching to get you out on the legendary Rogue River for a half-day adventure you won't soon forget. Gold Beach is our playground, and trust me, it's a fisher's paradise. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just getting your feet wet, this trip is tailor-made for a good time. We'll be chasing after some hard-fighting Chinook and Coho salmon, plus the ever-popular steelhead trout. So grab your license, pack some snacks, and let's make some waves!
Alright, here's the scoop: We're talking about a solid 4-hour trip that'll have you right in the thick of the action. We'll push off from Gold Beach and cruise the Rogue, hitting all my favorite honey holes. I've been fishing these waters for years, and let me tell you, there's nothing quite like the rush of a big Chinook salmon taking your bait. We keep things nice and cozy with just two guests per trip, so you'll get plenty of one-on-one time to pick up some new tricks. No need to stress about gear - I've got you covered with top-notch rods, reels, and all the tackle we'll need. Just remember to bring your Oregon fishing license, some grub to keep you going, and maybe a rain jacket (you know how Oregon weather can be). Oh, and don't forget your camera - you're gonna want proof when you land that monster fish!
Listen up, 'cause here's where the magic happens. We'll be using a mix of techniques depending on what's biting. Most days, we'll be trolling - that's dragging our lures behind the boat as we cruise along. It's a killer method for covering water and finding those big schools of salmon. For the steelhead, we might switch it up and do some drift fishing. That's where you let your bait float naturally with the current - steelhead can't resist it when done right. We'll be using everything from spinners and plugs to roe (that's fish eggs, for you newbies) to entice those fish. The Rogue River's got some serious character, with riffles, deep pools, and some gnarly rock formations that make for perfect fish hideouts. It's not just about the fishing, though - keep your eyes peeled for bald eagles, ospreys, and even the occasional bear on the shoreline. It's like fishing in a postcard, I'm telling you.
Let's talk targets, folks. We've got three heavy hitters on our list: Chinook salmon, Coho salmon, and steelhead trout. Each one's got its own personality, and they're all a blast to catch.
Chinook Salmon: These bad boys are the kings of the river, and for good reason. They can tip the scales at over 50 pounds, though most are in the 15-30 pound range. Chinooks are known for their power - when one of these guys hits your line, you better hold on tight! They've got a rich, flavorful meat that's prized by anglers and chefs alike. Fall is prime time for Chinooks, but we get decent runs in the spring too. Nothing beats the sight of a big Chinook thrashing at the surface - it's what fishing dreams are made of.
Coho Salmon: Also called silvers, these fish are the acrobats of the salmon world. They're smaller than Chinooks, usually in the 6-12 pound range, but what they lack in size they make up for in fight. Cohos are known for their spectacular leaps and runs that'll have your reel singing. They show up later in the fall, usually peaking in October. Cohos are a bit trickier to catch, which makes landing one even sweeter. Their meat is a bit milder than Chinook, but still delicious on the grill.
Steelhead Trout: Now, if you want a real challenge, steelhead are your fish. These sea-run rainbow trout are pound-for-pound some of the hardest fighting fish in the river. We get both summer and winter runs here on the Rogue, so there's almost always a chance to hook into one. They average 5-10 pounds, but don't let their size fool you - they'll give you a workout you won't forget. Steelhead are known for their lightning-fast runs and aerial acrobatics. When a steelhead decides to go airborne, it's a sight that'll have you grinning from ear to ear. Plus, their meat is some of the best you'll ever taste - light, flaky, and perfect for the smoker.
Look, I could go on all day about the fishing here, but nothing beats experiencing it firsthand. Whether you're looking to scratch that fishing itch, want to learn some new techniques, or just want to soak in the beauty of the Rogue River, this trip's got you covered. We've got the gear, the know-how, and some of the best darn fishing waters in Oregon. All that's missing is you! So what do you say? Ready to make some fishing memories that'll last a lifetime? Don't let that big one get away - book your spot now and let's hit the water. Trust me, once you've fished the Rogue with Captain TJ, you'll be hooked for life. See you on the river!
Chinook salmon, also called Kings, are the heavyweights of the Pacific salmon world. These bruisers typically run 15-30 pounds but can top 50 in the right conditions. You'll find them hanging out in deeper holes and runs, especially where tributaries enter the main river. Fall is prime time as they head upstream to spawn, but we get decent runs in spring too. Anglers love targeting Kings for their powerful fights - when one of these boys hits, hold on tight! They're also prized for their rich, flavorful meat. To up your odds, try bouncing roe or sand shrimp along the bottom in those deeper slots. And don't forget to check your drag - these big boys will put it to the test.

Coho, or silvers, are the acrobats of the salmon family. Typically weighing 8-12 pounds, these fish are known for their spectacular aerial displays when hooked. You'll find them in faster-moving water, often near logjams or other structure. Late summer into fall is the best time to target coho as they move upriver to spawn. Anglers love 'em for their aggressive strikes and hard-fighting nature. Plus, their bright orange meat is top-notch for the dinner table. If you're after coho, try swinging bright flies or spinners through riffles and tailouts. Keep your retrieves erratic - these fish love to chase down a fleeing "baitfish." And when one hits, be ready for anything - they've been known to jump clear over boats!

Steelhead are the sea-run cousins of rainbow trout, and they're some of the most sought-after fish in our rivers. Averaging 5-15 pounds, these chrome-bright battlers are known for their blistering runs and acrobatic leaps. You'll find them in faster water, often hugging the bottom in deeper runs and pools. We get two main runs - summers from June to September, and winters from December through March. Anglers prize steelhead for their tenacious fights and the challenge of hooking one. These fish can be finicky, so presentation is key. Try drifting a small cluster of eggs or swinging a bright streamer through likely holding water. And here's a local tip: on cloudy days, don't be afraid to fish closer to the surface. Steelhead will often move up in the water column when there's less light.
