Ready to hit the water and reel in some epic catches? Capt. TJ Cornelison's got you covered with this half-day trip that'll have you casting lines and making memories on the legendary Rogue River. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting your feet wet, this 4-hour charter in Gold Beach, Oregon is the perfect way to experience some of the best fishing the Pacific Northwest has to offer. With all the gear provided and an expert guide at the helm, you'll be targeting trophy-sized salmon and steelhead in no time.
From the moment you step onto Capt. TJ's boat, you'll feel the excitement building. As you cruise out onto the Rogue, you'll be surrounded by breathtaking scenery – we're talking mist-covered hills, towering evergreens, and maybe even some wildlife if you're lucky. But don't get too distracted by the views, because the real action's about to begin. Capt. TJ knows these waters like the back of his hand, and he'll have you set up with the right gear and techniques to maximize your chances of landing a monster. Whether you're drift fishing, bobber dogging, or back-bouncing, you'll be in for a fun-filled morning or afternoon of non-stop action.
No need to stress about bringing your own rod and reel – Capt. TJ's got all the top-notch gear you'll need for a successful day on the Rogue. You'll be using quality rods, reels, and terminal tackle specifically chosen for the species we're after. Depending on the time of year and water conditions, we might be using a variety of techniques. You could find yourself side-drifting eggs for steelhead, pulling plugs for Chinook, or casting spinners for silvers. Don't worry if you're new to these methods – Capt. TJ's a pro at teaching and will have you fishing like a local in no time. Just remember to bring your valid Oregon fishing license, and you're good to go!
The Rogue River is famous for its runs of hard-fighting salmon and steelhead, and for good reason. Let's break down the main players you might encounter on your trip:
Chinook Salmon: Also known as king salmon, these are the heavyweights of the Pacific salmon world. Rogue River Chinooks are known for their size and power – we're talking fish that can tip the scales at 30 pounds or more. They start showing up in the spring, with the fall run being particularly popular. When a Chinook hits your line, hold on tight – these bruisers will test your stamina and make your reel sing!
Coho Salmon: Sometimes called silvers, these acrobatic fish are a blast to catch. They're typically smaller than Chinooks, averaging 6-12 pounds, but what they lack in size they make up for in fight. Coho are known for their spectacular jumps and runs. The best time to target them is usually in the fall, and their flesh is prized for its rich, orange color and delicious flavor.
Steelhead Trout: The Rogue is world-renowned for its steelhead fishing, and for good reason. These sea-run rainbow trout are some of the most sought-after gamefish in the Pacific Northwest. Winter steelhead start showing up around December and can be caught through spring, while summer-run fish arrive in... you guessed it, summer! Steelhead are famous for their hard strikes and acrobatic fights – hooking into one of these chrome-bright beauties is an experience you won't soon forget.
Folks who fish with Capt. TJ tend to become repeat customers, and it's easy to see why. First off, the guy knows his stuff. With years of experience on the Rogue, he's got the local knowledge to put you on fish when others are coming up empty. But it's not just about catching fish – though that's a big part of it. It's about the whole experience: the camaraderie on the boat, the stories shared, and the thrill of never knowing what might be on the end of your line next. Plus, Gold Beach is just a darn beautiful place to spend a morning or afternoon. Whether you're a local looking for a quick fishing fix or a visitor wanting to experience the best of Oregon angling, this trip checks all the boxes.
So, what are you waiting for? This 4-hour trip with Capt. TJ Cornelison is your ticket to some world-class fishing on one of Oregon's most iconic rivers. Whether you're dreaming of battling a chrome-bright steelhead or filling the cooler with some prime salmon fillets, this is your chance to make it happen. Remember, the boat only takes two anglers, so you're guaranteed a personalized experience without the crowds. Bring a buddy, your significant other, or treat the kids to an adventure they'll never forget. Just don't forget to pack some snacks and drinks – fighting fish works up an appetite! Give Capt. TJ a call and lock in your date – the fish are waiting, and the Rogue is calling. Trust me, once you experience fishing Gold Beach with a pro like TJ, you'll be planning your next trip before you even get back to the dock.
Chinook salmon, also called kings, are the biggest salmon species we target here. They usually run 20-40 pounds but can top 50. You'll find them in deeper holes and along current seams. These bruisers put up an epic fight - be ready for some serious runs! Kings are prized for their rich, flavorful meat. Late summer through fall is prime time as they push upriver to spawn. Look for them holding in slower water behind boulders or logs. I like to drift eggs or swing large plugs through likely spots. Pro tip: Kings often strike out of aggression, so don't be afraid to use flashy lures or scented baits to trigger a bite. Just be sure your gear can handle these powerhouses - they'll test every knot and connection.
Coho salmon, or silvers, are the acrobats of the salmon world. Typically 8-12 pounds, they're known for their spectacular aerial displays when hooked. You'll find them in faster riffles and tailouts, often closer to the surface than kings. Fall is the best time to target these chrome-bright beauties as they enter the river. Cohos are a blast on light tackle and fly gear. Their meat is prized for its delicate flavor. These fish can be aggressive, so cover water with spinners, plugs, or flies. A local secret: on sunny days, try skating a mouse pattern across the surface - the strikes are explosive! Cohos often travel in schools, so if you hook one, stick around. There's a good chance its buddies are nearby.
Steelhead are sea-run rainbow trout, spending years in the ocean before returning to spawn. They average 6-12 pounds but can push 20. Winter and summer runs give us year-round action. These fish are prized for their hard-fighting spirit and acrobatics. Look for them in faster water, often hugging the bottom in deeper runs. Steelhead fishing tests your skills - these fish are notoriously picky. Drift small egg clusters, swing flies, or bounce jigs along the bottom. Patience and persistence are key. My go-to trick? Fish the soft edges where fast water meets slow - steelhead love these transition zones. When you hook one, hold on tight. There's nothing quite like the pull of a fresh steelhead in heavy current.