The Upper Rogue River

It is no coincidence that virtually all steelhead anglers have a Rogue River story. Aside from the long history and tradition of steelhead fly fishing on the Rogue, the fact remains that the upper Rogue River is one of the most consistent and approachable steelhead fisheries in the lower 48. Regardless of fly fishing technique, the upper Rogue River has water for everyone. Whether you like to drop heavily-weighted nymphs into dark slots under a strike indicator or ply the surface with a hitched skater we are confident the upper Rogue River could be the setting for your next favorite fishing story.

Rogue River steelhead average five pounds and will generally be present in the upper river by mid-August. The prime months of September and October offer consistent catch rates and stable weather. Fly Water Travel is proud to offer the most comprehensive list of qualified guides and lodging packages you’ll find. This is our “home water” in southern Oregon and we can build any itinerary to suit your needs.

Location:
The upper Rogue River flows through Medford, OR.

Fishing Program:
What we love about steelhead fly fishing on the upper Rogue is the range of options in terms of fly fishing style and methods. Although many anglers instantly associate the upper Rogue river with boat-based indicator fishing, the fact is that indicator fishing is only one of many productive methods available.

Anglers who want to fly fish from the boat all day typically enjoy consistent catch rates and a relaxed steelhead fly fishing program. Many Rogue River guides rig a set of weighted nymphs under a strike indicator. Very long, drag-free drifts are achieved with this method and it is very effective.

The upper Rogue River also has plenty to offer the wade angler or those who want to fly fish a swung fly. Our guides know all the intricacies of swing fishing and love to share “the big pull” with anglers of all skill levels. The Rogue River is a good size river for casting a spey rod, though it is not necessary.

Some guides on the river employ the “Rogue River twitch”. This is the traditional method of fly fishing the Rogue River where guides will maneuver the boat down through runs with anglers twitching their flies from the bow. This method has proven successful for anglers of all skill levels for many years.

All guide trips on the upper Rogue River will employ a boat, either for fishing or transportation. Rogue river summer steelhead generally run from 21 – 29 inches, with the average fish around 5 lbs. This is summer steelhead fly fishing so two fish a day per angler is still considered a good day. Aside from the adult steelhead, anglers often have many encounters each day with the famed Rogue River half-pounders.

Non-Angling Activities:
Located a mere 45 minutes from the prime summer steelhead waters of the upper Rogue, Ashland provides a charming, civilized hub for fishing the upper Rogue. With many fine restaurants, the renowned Shakespeare Festival, elegant accommodations and shopping, Ashland has become a popular fall destination for couples. This is truly one of the only places in the world where you can put in a full day on the river, enjoy a gourmet meal in town, and then polish off the evening with a Shakespeare play.

Accommodations and Meals:
Ashland is often described as a “small town with culture”. We are pleased to offer a range of accommodations here that put you within walking distance to fine dining, shopping, and the renowned Shakespeare Festival. Accommodations range from the elegant and historic Ashland Springs Hotel right downtown to a number of intimate inns and B&B’s.

For those who want to stay focused on fishing every minute of the day, we suggest staying in Shady Cove. A small fishing town in the heart of the action on the upper Rogue, Shady Cove is a convenient place to stay for diehard anglers.

Sample Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrive in Ashland.
Days 2-4: Full days of guided fishing.
Day 5: Depart Ashland.

Complete Trip Details