Kayak or pontoon boat on upper Mckenzie?

[olshiftybiscuits]

The McKenzie is pretty hard to wade in the prime sections. You can do it way up high below clear lake, but you’ll be way better off exploring the tributaries for walk and wade fishing. Tons of good access along horse creek road off 126. The south fork McKenzie near French Pete campground is another good trib to explore on foot. To the northeast of you is the North Santiam, which opens for trout fishing on Saturday. There’s good public access around mill city.

 

[Jish@61]

Ok thanks I guess u better start getting to know these places, thanks again.

 

[Jish@61]

Is north santiam park, reason is on this site someone wrote it was private property out of the park.

 

[sixteenvolt]

This river seems a bit much if you're just starting up. I highly recommend visiting your nearby Junction City Pond since they've been stocking it for months, and will get a few more truckloads this year, and you can bring your kayak or pontoon.

Here's a Power Bait rig that most anyone at the pond would be happy to help you set up. If you're on your kayak, feel free to go crazy with spinners or a fly.

Again, do not try going in the McKenzie without a professional guide. You will get trapped in a current and drown. The pond, less of a chance of that, and you can take your kayak out (wear a life vest).

 

[Jish@61]

Thanks

 

[DOKF]

Good advice. Stay safe ...