#7 on this list
Clearwater River
Idaho, USA
Idaho's Clearwater River, particularly its Middle and South Forks, offers a truly unique inland steelhead experience. Renowned for its large, powerful A-run and B-run (larger, later-migrating) steelhead, the Clearwater provides a stark contrast to the coastal rivers, flowing through arid canyons and pine forests. The main stem is fishable, but the true gems are the forks, offering more solitude and a wilder feel. The prime season for these summer-run fish is typically October through March, with winter bringing some of the largest fish. Access to the main stem is good, with numerous boat launches and public access points around Orofino and Lenore. The Middle Fork and South Fork require more effort, often involving jet boat trips or dedicated hiking. This river system can accommodate various skill levels, but a guide is highly recommended for newcomers, especially on the forks. Expect diverse fishing conditions, from swinging flies in faster runs to nymphing deeper pools. While not as remote as some BC rivers, the Idaho wilderness still provides a rugged backdrop. An Idaho fishing license with a steelhead permit is required. The Clearwater is a powerhouse river, delivering hard-fighting fish and a distinct high-desert-to-mountain-forest experience, making it a compelling destination for those seeking powerful inland steelhead. **Highlights** * Known for exceptionally large and powerful A-run and B-run steelhead. * Diverse fishing opportunities (swinging, nymphing) across different sections. * Long season, from fall into late winter/early spring. * Stunning canyon and mountain forest scenery. * Opportunities for both boat and wade fishing. **Watch-outs** * Can be very cold during peak winter season. * High water flows can make wading difficult and dangerous. * Main stem can experience significant angler pressure. * Access to the Middle and South Forks can be challenging without a jet boat. * Limited services in remote sections of the forks.
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#8 on this list
Skagit River
Washington, USA
The Skagit River in northwest Washington is one of the state's largest and most iconic rivers, flowing from the North Cascades to Puget Sound. Historically, it was a world-class wild steelhead river, and while runs have faced challenges, it remains a significant destination, particularly for winter steelhead. The sheer size and power of the Skagit make it a formidable river to fish, often requiring boat access, though some excellent wade-fishing opportunities exist around Rockport and Marblemount. The prime winter steelhead season is from December through March. The river offers a mix of classic swing water, deep pools, and riffles. Expect variable water conditions, from clear flows to glacial turbidity after heavy rains or warm spells. Access is generally good along Highway 20, but the size of the river means finding fish can be like finding a needle in a haystack without local knowledge. This river is best suited for experienced anglers comfortable with powerful currents and large water, though guides can help navigate its complexities. A Washington State fishing license with a steelhead endorsement is required. While not as prolific as in its past, the Skagit still offers the chance to intercept a genuine chrome bright wild winter steelhead in a truly grand Pacific Northwest setting, a testament to its enduring potential. **Highlights** * Iconic large river system with impressive scenery. * Strong wild winter steelhead genetics. * Good boat and some wade access. * Opportunities for big, powerful fish. * Diverse holding water types. **Watch-outs** * Challenging large river environment; powerful currents. * Wild steelhead runs have faced significant declines, making fishing tougher. * Can experience high turbidity after heavy rains. * Requires significant effort and often a boat for best access. * Subject to frequent regulations changes and closures.
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Specs side by side
| Spec | Clearwater River | Skagit River |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Idaho, USA | Northwest Washington, USA |
| Target Species | Summer Steelhead (A-run, B-run) | — |
| Peak Season | October – March | December - March |
| Terrain | Arid Canyons to Pine Forests | North Cascades foothills to lowland estuary |
| Key Sections | Main Stem, Middle Fork, South Fork | — |
| Permits | Idaho Fishing License + Steelhead Permit | — |
| Primary Target | — | Wild Winter Steelhead |
| Typical Access | — | Boat, some wade |
| Notable Towns | — | Rockport, Marblemount |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
Clearwater River
- Opportunity for exceptionally large and powerful A-run and B-run steelhead
- Diverse fishing techniques possible across varied river sections
- Long fishing season spanning fall, winter, and early spring
- Stunning, diverse scenery from arid canyons to pine forests
- Options for both accessible main stem fishing and remote wilderness experiences
- Peak winter season brings extremely cold temperatures and challenging conditions
- High water flows can create dangerous wading and navigation hazards
- Main stem sections can experience significant angler pressure, especially on weekends
- Access to the Middle and South Forks often requires a costly jet boat or guide
- Limited services and facilities in the more remote sections of the forks
Skagit River
- Opportunity for large, powerful wild winter steelhead
- Iconic Pacific Northwest scenery and wilderness experience
- Diverse water types for various fishing methods
- Good boat access, some productive wade opportunities
- Significant historical importance and enduring potential
- Wild steelhead runs have faced significant declines, fishing can be tough
- Large, powerful river; challenging for inexperienced anglers
- Variable water conditions, prone to high turbidity after heavy rains
- Can be crowded in popular access areas
- Regulations change frequently, requiring constant vigilance
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