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Premier Rogue River Fishing with Capt. TJ
- Published Date: July 17, 2025
- Fishing
- Grants Pass,OR
- $350 - $1,000 price range
- Updated Date: October 6, 2025
Summary
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River Fishing Action
Experience the Rogue difference.
Rivers full of opportunity.
Perfect day for a catch.
Beginners welcome, pros challenged.
Reel in adventure on the Rogue River.
Salmon fishing at its best.
Cast into Rogue River waters.
Angler’s paradise found.
Hook, line, and Rogue River fun.
Your next catch is here.
Experience the Rogue difference.
Rivers full of opportunity.
Perfect day for a catch.
Beginners welcome, pros challenged.
Reel in adventure on the Rogue River.
Salmon fishing at its best.
Cast into Rogue River waters.
Angler’s paradise found.
Hook, line, and Rogue River fun.
Your next catch is here.
Experience the Rogue difference.
Rivers full of opportunity.
Perfect day for a catch.
Beginners welcome, pros challenged.
Reel in the Big Ones: Southern Oregon's Finest
Ready to tangle with some of the Northwest's hardest-fighting fish? Captain TJ Cornelison's got your ticket to salmon and steelhead paradise right here in Southern Oregon. We're talking about the kind of fishing that'll have you grinning from ear to ear and telling stories for years to come. Whether you're a seasoned pro or it's your first time holding a rod, TJ's got the know-how to put you on fish and make sure you have a blast doing it. So grab your gear and let's hit the water – the fish are waiting!
What's the Deal with This Trip?
Picture this: You're drifting down one of Southern Oregon's pristine rivers, surrounded by towering evergreens and rugged mountains. The air's crisp, the water's clear, and your line's in the water. That's when you feel it – the sudden, heart-stopping tug that means a big one's on the other end. With Captain TJ at the helm, you're in for a full day of non-stop action, targeting some of the most sought-after game fish in the Pacific Northwest. We're talking Chinook and Coho salmon that'll test your arms, and steelhead that'll make your reel sing. TJ's boat is set up for comfort and success, with top-notch gear and plenty of room for you and up to three buddies. It's the perfect setup for making memories and maybe even landing that fish of a lifetime.
How We Roll on the River
When you're out with Captain TJ, you're getting the real deal. We use a mix of techniques to keep those rods bent. Depending on the season and what's biting, we might be back-bouncing roe, pulling plugs, or drifting flies. TJ's always got his finger on the pulse of what's working, so you can bet we'll be using the hottest methods to get those fish in the boat. We'll cover plenty of water, hitting all the prime spots – from deep, slow pools where the big boys like to hide, to faster runs where aggressive fish are ready to smash your offering. And don't worry if you're new to this – TJ's got the patience of a saint and he'll have you fishing like a pro in no time.
Species You'll Want to Hook
Chinook Salmon: These bad boys are the kings of the river, and for good reason. Chinooks in Southern Oregon can tip the scales at over 40 pounds, and they fight like their tails are on fire. They start showing up in the spring, but fall is when things really heat up. There's nothing quite like the rush of a big Chinook peeling line off your reel – it's the kind of thrill that keeps anglers coming back year after year.
Coho Salmon: Don't let their smaller size fool you – Coho, or silver salmon, are pound-for-pound some of the feistiest fish you'll ever tangle with. These acrobatic fighters love to put on a show, leaping clear out of the water and making blistering runs that'll have you hollering with excitement. We usually see them from late summer into fall, and they're a blast to catch on light tackle.
Steelhead Trout: If salmon are the kings of the river, steelhead are the rockstars. These sea-run rainbow trout are famous for their lightning-fast runs and aerial acrobatics. Winter steelhead start showing up around December and fish through spring, while summer-run fish arrive in the warmer months. Hooking into one of these chrome-bright beauties is like touching a live wire – pure, electrifying fun that'll have you grinning from ear to ear.
Why Anglers Keep Coming Back
Sure, the fishing's great, but it's more than just that. It's the way the mist rises off the river in the early morning. It's the bald eagle swooping down to snag a fish right in front of you. It's the stories and laughs shared over sandwiches in between bites. And it's the expert guidance of Captain TJ, who knows these waters like the back of his hand and treats every guest like an old fishing buddy. Whether you're out to land that trophy catch or just enjoy a day on the water with friends and family, this trip delivers the goods time and time again.
Time to Book Your Spot
Alright, let's cut to the chase – if you're itching to get out on the water and tangle with some of Southern Oregon's finest fish, Captain TJ's your man. With room for up to four anglers, top-notch gear, and a wealth of local knowledge, this full-day trip is your ticket to salmon and steelhead heaven. Whether you're a seasoned angler looking to add another notch to your belt or a newbie eager to learn the ropes, TJ's got you covered. The fish are out there, the scenery's stunning, and the memories are just waiting to be made. So what are you waiting for? Grab your spot on the boat and get ready for a day of world-class fishing you won't soon forget. Trust me, the only thing you'll regret is not booking sooner. Let's go fishing!
Learn more about the species
Chinook Salmon
Chinook, or King Salmon, are the giants of our local rivers. These bruisers typically run 20-30 pounds, but don't be shocked if you hook into a 40-pounder. They're built like linebackers, with broad shoulders and a fighter's spirit. Look for them in deeper pools and runs, especially during their fall spawning run. Chinooks aren't known for acrobatics, but they'll test your gear with powerful, determined runs. Their meat is prized for its rich, red color and high oil content - perfect for smoking or grilling. Early mornings are your best bet, and I always tell folks to fish deep. Use heavy gear and don't be afraid to bounce your bait right along the bottom. These kings are worth the effort, both for the challenge and the dinner table.
Coho Salmon
Coho, or Silver Salmon, are the acrobats of our Southern Oregon rivers. These fish typically weigh 8-12 pounds and put on a show when hooked, often leaping clear out of the water. You'll find them in faster-moving water, especially around logjams and undercut banks. Cohos start showing up in late summer, with the peak run usually hitting in September and October. They're aggressive feeders and will smash both flies and lures with gusto. Anglers love Cohos for their fight and their excellent table fare - their meat is a bit milder than Chinook, with a beautiful orange color. If you're after these silver bullets, try swinging bright flies or spinners through riffles and tail-outs. And here's a local tip: on sunny days, focus on shaded areas where these light-sensitive fish like to hold.
Steelhead Trout
Steelhead are the adrenaline junkies of the trout world. These sea-run rainbows typically range from 5-15 pounds, but they fight like fish twice their size. You'll find them in faster water - riffles, runs, and the heads of pools. Winter and summer runs give us year-round action, with peak fishing usually in winter and early spring. Steelhead are prized for their acrobatic fights and stamina - hooking one is like tying into a aquatic freight train. They're not the easiest to catch, which is part of the allure. Persistence pays off here. For the best shot, cover lots of water and focus on swinging flies or drifting bait through likely holding spots. Pro tip: after a rain when the river's dropping and clearing, that's prime time to hit the water. Steelhead fishing can be tough, but landing one of these chrome beauties is an experience you won't forget.
