Get ready to cast your line into some of Oregon's most fish-rich waters with Mason Gensman, your go-to fly fishing guru. This full-day trip is perfect for anglers of all levels looking to land trophy catches and soak up the stunning riverscapes. Whether you're after the acrobatic leaps of steelhead or the powerful runs of salmon, Mason's got the inside scoop on where they're biting and how to hook 'em.
Picture this: You're standing knee-deep in a crystal-clear Oregon river, surrounded by towering pines and rugged mountains. The only sounds are the rushing water and maybe the splash of a jumping fish. That's what you're in for on this 8-hour fly fishing adventure. Mason tailors the day to your skill level, so newbies and old pros alike will have a blast. You'll learn the ins and outs of reading the water, selecting the right flies, and perfecting your cast. And with a max of 6 guests, you'll get plenty of one-on-one time with the guide to fine-tune your technique.
On this trip, you'll get to try out a variety of fly fishing methods. Depending on the season and target species, you might be nymphing for trout in pocket water, swinging flies for steelhead, or stripping streamers for aggressive bass. Mason provides all the top-notch gear you'll need, including rods, reels, and flies. He's always got a few secret patterns up his sleeve that the local fish can't resist. Don't worry if you're new to fly fishing – Mason's patient teaching style will have you false casting like a pro in no time.
Smallmouth Bass: These hard-fighting fish are a summer favorite in Oregon's rivers. They love warm, slower-moving water and put up an epic fight on light tackle. Expect aggressive strikes and acrobatic jumps when you hook into one of these bronze beauties. The best time to target them is from late spring through early fall when the water warms up.
Coho Salmon: Also known as silvers, these salmon are prized for their tasty flesh and their spectacular fights. They typically show up in Oregon's coastal rivers from late summer through fall. When hooked, coho are known for their lightning-fast runs and aerial displays. Landing one of these chrome-bright fish is a true badge of honor for any angler.
Steelhead Trout: The crown jewel of Oregon fly fishing, steelhead are essentially sea-run rainbow trout that return to rivers to spawn. They're available year-round in some rivers, with summer and winter runs. Steelhead are famous for their powerful runs and acrobatic leaps. Hooking one is thrilling; landing one is an achievement you'll never forget.
Sea Trout: While not as common as other species, sea-run cutthroat trout (often called sea trout) offer a unique angling experience in Oregon's coastal streams. These aggressive fish are typically targeted in late summer and fall when they return from the ocean. They're known for their willingness to take flies on the surface, making for exciting visual takes.
Common Carp: Often overlooked, carp are gaining popularity among fly anglers for their size, power, and the challenge they present. In Oregon's lakes and slow-moving rivers, carp can grow to impressive sizes. Sight-fishing for these "golden ghosts" requires stealth and precision, making them a favorite for anglers looking to test their skills.
Mason's trips aren't just about catching fish – they're about creating memories that'll have you grinning every time you think back on them. You'll learn more in a day on the water with him than you would in a month of reading fishing magazines. Plus, Oregon's rivers are some of the most beautiful in the world. Even on days when the fish aren't cooperating, the scenery alone is worth the trip. And let's be real – there's nothing quite like the rush of feeling a big fish on the end of your line, knowing you fooled it with a tiny piece of fluff and feathers.
The fishing's been on fire lately, with anglers pulling in some real beauties. Just last week, a guest landed a chrome-bright 12-pound steelhead that took them on a wild ride downstream before finally coming to the net. Another lucky angler hooked into a monster 5-pound smallmouth that put up a fight worthy of a fish twice its size. And for those willing to put in the work, the carp fishing has been off the charts, with several fish over 20 pounds brought to hand. Whether you're after quantity or quality, Mason knows where to find the fish that'll make your trip unforgettable.
Look, if you're still reading this, you're probably already imagining yourself out there on the river, rod in hand, waiting for that big strike. So why wait? Mason's calendar fills up fast, especially during prime fishing seasons. This 8-hour trip is the perfect way to really dive deep into Oregon's world-class fly fishing scene. Whether you're looking to learn the basics, hone your skills, or just have a day of non-stop action, Mason's got you covered. Don't let another season slip by without experiencing the best fly fishing Oregon has to offer. Grab your spot now and get ready for a day on the water you'll be talking about for years to come. Tight lines!
Coho salmon are a blast to catch - they're acrobatic fighters that'll have your reel singing. Most run 8-12 pounds, but 20-pounders aren't unheard of. Look for them in coastal rivers and estuaries as they return from the ocean to spawn. Fall's the prime time, especially after a good rain gets them moving upstream. Coho hit hard and jump like crazy, so hold on tight! Their orange-red flesh is prized for its rich flavor, whether grilled or smoked. When fly fishing, bright patterns like chartreuse or hot pink often trigger strikes. Here's a local tip: Focus on outside bends and deep holes where coho rest on their journey upstream. A stealthy approach is key - these fish can be skittish in clear water. Patient anglers who read the water carefully are usually rewarded with some great action.
Common carp are often overlooked, but they can be a blast to catch. These golden-hued bruisers average 5-15 pounds, with some topping 30. You'll find them in calm, warm waters like ponds, slow rivers, and lake shallows. They love weedy areas and muddy bottoms where they root for food. Spring and early summer are great times as carp move shallow to spawn. These fish fight hard, making long, powerful runs. Carp can be picky, so patience and stealth are key. Try bread, corn, or specially made boilies on a hair rig. Here's a local tip: Chum your spot with some crumbled bread or corn to get carp actively feeding. Then, cast your baited hook into the mix and wait for that telltale run. It's a fun, laid-back style of fishing that can lead to some impressive catches.
Sea trout, also called spotted or speckled trout, are popular gamefish in coastal waters. Most run 1-5 pounds, but trophy fish over 10 aren't unheard of. Look for them around grass flats, oyster bars, and creek mouths, especially at dawn and dusk. They're ambush predators, so target areas with structure and moving water. Spring and fall are prime seasons as the fish move into shallower areas to feed. Sea trout fight well on light tackle and make excellent table fare with their mild, flaky meat. Artificial lures like soft plastics and topwater plugs are very effective. Here's a local tip: On calm mornings, look for subtle surface disturbances - that's often sea trout attacking bait schools. A well-placed cast with a topwater lure can lead to some explosive strikes.
Smallmouth bass are scrappy fighters that'll give you a run for your money. These bronze beauties usually run 2-4 pounds but can top out over 8. You'll find them in rocky areas of rivers and lakes, especially near drop-offs and submerged logs. They love crayfish, so try dragging a tube jig along the bottom. Fall's prime time as they fatten up for winter. In summer, fish early morning or evening in deeper, cooler water. Pound-for-pound, smallies put up one of the best fights of any freshwater fish. Their acrobatic leaps and strong runs will test your skills. Here's a local tip: When the water's clear, downsize your lure and use light line. These fish have great eyesight and can be pretty wary. Be stealthy, make long casts, and you'll boost your odds of hooking into a nice smallmouth.
Steelhead are the ultimate prize for many anglers - they're basically supercharged rainbow trout that spend years at sea before returning to rivers. Most run 5-10 pounds, but 20-pounders aren't uncommon. Look for them in faster runs and deep pools as they migrate upstream. Winter and early spring are prime times, especially after a good rain. These fish are legendary fighters, known for blistering runs and acrobatic leaps. Patience and persistence are key - you might cast hundreds of times for a single hook-up, but it's worth it. Fly anglers often use big, flashy flies swung on sink-tip lines. Here's a local tip: Focus on water depths of 3-6 feet with a moderate current. Steelhead often hold in "soft water" edges just outside the main flow. Cover water methodically and stay alert - when a steelhead hits, it's usually explosive.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: Tohatsu
Maximum Cruising Speed: 35
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 150