Steelhead fishing near the saltwater estuaries of Tillamook rivers offers an unparalleled angling adventure. Just a short distance inland, these powerful fish fight with incredible strength, setting them apart from steelhead found in many inland waterways. Coastal steelhead are truly exceptional, and the Wilson and Nestucca Rivers stand out as premier winter steelhead destinations in the Western United States. For anglers seeking the best experience, Guided Fishing Trips are the key to unlocking the full potential of these rivers.
One of the most rewarding ways to explore these rivers is through guided fishing trips utilizing drift boats or rafts. Imagine quietly drifting down the Wilson or Nestucca, surrounded by stunning natural scenery, with only the gentle sounds of oars and the river flowing around you. This serene and immersive experience is a world away from jet boat fishing. Drift boats and rafts allow access to shallower, more remote sections of the river, perfect for productive guided fishing trips. While jet boats can be used in certain lower river sections when conditions permit, the drift boat and raft offer a unique advantage for anglers on guided fishing trips seeking a more intimate connection with the river.
The Wilson River’s reputation as a steelhead fishing hotspot is built upon its robust runs of both native and hatchery broodstock steelhead. Unlike many rivers that may only have one or the other, the Wilson boasts impressive numbers of both. This abundance translates to fantastic opportunities for anglers on guided fishing trips. You have the chance to bring home hatchery fish for a delicious meal, while also experiencing the thrill of catch-and-release with the thousands of native steelhead that migrate upstream simultaneously. Guided fishing trips maximize your chances to encounter both types of steelhead, ensuring a fulfilling day on the water.
The Nestucca River is another gem for guided fishing trips, known for maintaining excellent water levels even after other Tillamook-area rivers become too low. This consistent flow ensures prolonged steelhead fishing opportunities. The Nestucca embodies the ideal steelhead river, offering ample habitat to support a thriving steelhead population. Anglers on guided fishing trips on the Nestucca benefit from its reliable conditions and beautiful riverine environment.
Guided fishing trips employ effective techniques to cover extensive stretches of water, increasing your chances of finding steelhead. On some days, trips can span up to 14 miles of river. This wide coverage not only helps locate fish but also allows participants on guided fishing trips to witness the breathtaking scenery these rivers offer. Side drifting and bobber dogging are favored “hands-on” methods used during guided fishing trips, keeping anglers actively engaged throughout the day. The guide expertly manages the drift boat or raft speed to match the current, enabling long, productive drifts through prime steelhead holding areas. These techniques are not only effective but also highly enjoyable, providing clients on guided fishing trips with an interactive and rewarding fishing experience.
The strategic location of Tillamook, surrounded by numerous rivers, offers unique flexibility for guided fishing trips. Sometimes, guided fishing trips can even target two different rivers in a single day. Besides the Wilson and Nestucca, Tillamook County boasts a wealth of other excellent rivers, including the Kilchis, Trask, and Nehalem. Choosing guided fishing trips ensures you benefit from expert knowledge and adaptability, maximizing your fishing success across the diverse river systems of the region. Experienced guides are dedicated to providing you with the best possible fishing adventure.
Contact us today to book your guided fishing trip and experience the thrill of steelhead fishing on Tillamook’s legendary rivers!
