#6 on this list
North Umpqua River
Oregon, USA
The North Umpqua is an iconic Oregon river, known historically as the 'River of a Thousand Casts' due to its challenging yet rewarding nature. This river is famous for its wild summer steelhead and its fly-only regulations in many sections, making it a purist's paradise. Flowing out of the Cascade Mountains, the North Umpqua's clear, cold water tumbles over boulders and through deep pools, offering classic swing water. The prime season is July through October, with peak fishing in late August and September. Access is primarily by wading from public pull-offs and campgrounds along Highway 138 (North Umpqua Highway), which parallels much of the fishable water. This river demands precise casting, stealth, and a willingness to work for every fish. It's not a numbers game; it's about the quality of the experience and the beauty of the fish. Anglers often fish long, light lines or traditional spey outfits. Expect some angler pressure in popular pools, especially on weekends, but the river's length allows for solitude if you're willing to hike. An Oregon fishing license with a steelhead endorsement is required. While challenging, landing a wild North Umpqua steelhead is a rite of passage for many, a testament to the river's enduring allure and its magnificent fish. **Highlights** * Legendary wild summer steelhead fishery. * Extensive fly-only regulations in prime sections. * Clear, cold water and classic swing pools. * Beautiful old-growth forest scenery. * Iconic angling experience, a true purist's river. **Watch-outs** * Extremely challenging fishing; not for beginners. * Low fish numbers compared to some other rivers. * Requires long casts and precise presentation. * Can experience high angler pressure in accessible areas. * Wading can be technical and slippery.
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#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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Specs side by side
| Spec | North Umpqua River | Clearwater River |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Oregon, USA | Idaho, USA |
| Primary Species | Wild Summer Steelhead | — |
| Best Season | July - October (Peak late Aug - Sep) | — |
| Access | Wade from Highway 138 | — |
| Regulation | Extensive Fly-Only Sections | — |
| Difficulty | Very Challenging | — |
| Target Species | — | Summer Steelhead (A-run, B-run) |
| Peak Season | — | October – March |
| Terrain | — | Arid Canyons to Pine Forests |
| Key Sections | — | Main Stem, Middle Fork, South Fork |
| Permits | — | Idaho Fishing License + Steelhead Permit |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
North Umpqua River
- World-class wild summer steelhead fishery
- Iconic fly-fishing experience for purists
- Stunning old-growth forest scenery
- Challenging yet deeply rewarding angling
- Excellent water clarity in prime season
- Extremely challenging fishing; not for beginners
- Lower fish numbers compared to some rivers
- Can experience angler pressure in popular pools
- Wading can be technical and slippery
- Requires precise casting and stealth
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
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