Alsea River Steelhead Fishing

The Alsea River, flowing through Oregon’s coastal region, is a premier destination for steelhead fishing. Known for its scenic landscapes, the river offers opportunities for both summer and winter steelhead runs, attracting anglers of all skill levels. Steelhead, a sea-run version of rainbow trout, are highly prized by sport fishermen for their aggressive behavior, acrobatic jumps, and fighting strength.

Understanding Steelhead

Steelhead are anadromous, meaning they are born in freshwater, migrate to the ocean to mature, and then return to freshwater to spawn. Unlike salmon, which die after spawning, steelhead can return to the ocean and spawn multiple times over their lifetime, making them resilient and versatile. There are two main types of steelhead found in the Alsea River: summer steelhead and winter steelhead.

• Summer Steelhead: These fish enter freshwater during the warmer months (May through October) and remain in the river system until they spawn in late winter or early spring. Summer steelhead are generally smaller than winter steelhead, usually weighing between 5 and 12 pounds, but their aggressive feeding behavior makes them a favorite among anglers.
• Winter Steelhead: These fish enter the river from November to March, with peak migration typically occurring in December and January. Winter steelhead are generally larger than their summer counterparts, weighing anywhere from 8 to 20 pounds or more. Their size and strength make them particularly popular among anglers who enjoy a challenging fight.

Steelhead fishing on the Alsea River is known for its scenic beauty and rewarding experiences, with ample opportunities to land one of these prized fish.

Best Seasons for Steelhead Fishing on the Alsea River

Timing is everything when it comes to steelhead fishing, and knowing when to fish can greatly increase your chances of success. The Alsea River offers two distinct seasons for steelhead: summer and winter.

• Summer Steelhead Season: The summer steelhead run on the Alsea River begins in May and lasts through October. The best time to fish for summer steelhead is typically from late June through September, when water levels are lower and the fish are more concentrated in deeper pools. Summer steelhead are aggressive and will readily take bait or lures, providing exciting action for anglers.
• Winter Steelhead Season: Winter steelhead fishing on the Alsea River peaks from December through February, though some fish may be present as early as November and as late as March. This is the prime time for anglers looking to target the larger, hard-fighting winter steelhead. The colder water temperatures and increased river flow during winter make fishing more challenging, but the reward of landing a big steelhead makes the effort worthwhile.

While both seasons offer excellent fishing opportunities, winter steelhead fishing is particularly popular on the Alsea River due to the size and strength of the fish.

Techniques for Steelhead Fishing on the Alsea River

There are several effective techniques for targeting steelhead on the Alsea River, each suited to different conditions and sections of the river. These techniques include drift fishing, float fishing, and fly fishing.

1. Drift Fishing

Drift fishing is one of the most popular and effective methods for catching steelhead in rivers like the Alsea. This technique involves casting upstream and allowing the bait or lure to drift naturally with the current. The key is to present the offering at the right depth, close to the bottom, where steelhead are typically holding.

• Bait: Drift fishing is commonly done with natural baits such as cured salmon eggs (roe), sand shrimp, or nightcrawlers. Steelhead are opportunistic feeders, and these baits can entice them to bite as they drift by.
• Gear: A medium to heavy-action rod is ideal for drift fishing, with a sensitive tip to detect subtle bites. Reels should be spooled with 10 to 15-pound test line, depending on the size of the steelhead you're targeting. A sliding weight rig allows the bait to drift naturally while keeping it near the bottom.

2. Float Fishing

Float fishing, also known as bobber fishing, is another highly effective technique for steelhead fishing, particularly in deeper pools or slower-moving water. This method involves suspending bait or a jig beneath a bobber and allowing it to drift through the current.

• Bait and Lures: Common baits for float fishing include cured roe, shrimp, or small prawns. Jigs, often made of marabou or plastic, are also popular and come in a variety of colors to attract steelhead. Bright colors like pink, orange, and chartreuse often work well in murky water.
• Tackle: A long rod (9 to 11 feet) designed for float fishing is ideal. The length allows for better control of the drift and helps with hook setting. Reels should be spooled with 8 to 12-pound test line for summer steelhead or 12 to 15-pound test line for winter steelhead.

3. Fly Fishing

Fly fishing for steelhead is a specialized and highly rewarding method that requires skill and patience. This technique is best suited for the upper sections of the Alsea River, where the water is shallower and clearer, allowing for a more accurate presentation of flies.

• Flies: Steelhead flies typically imitate aquatic insects, baitfish, or egg patterns. Streamers, nymphs, and egg flies are all effective choices. The type of fly you use will depend on the time of year and water conditions, with larger, brightly colored flies often working well in higher water during winter.
• Gear: A 7 to 9-weight fly rod with a matching reel is ideal for steelhead fishing. Use a floating or sink-tip fly line depending on the depth and speed of the water. A tapered leader with a breaking strength of 10 to 15 pounds is recommended to handle the powerful runs of steelhead.

Best Locations for Steelhead Fishing on the Alsea River

The Alsea River offers a variety of fishing environments, from deep pools and riffles to slower-moving water in the lower river. Knowing where to fish is crucial for success, and the following are some of the best locations for targeting steelhead on the Alsea River.

• Lower River: The lower stretches of the Alsea River, near the town of Tidewater, offer excellent steelhead fishing, particularly during the winter run. This section of the river is wider and slower-moving, making it ideal for float fishing or drift fishing from a boat. Public access is available at several boat ramps and parks along Highway 34, which follows the river's course.
• Mid-River Sections: The middle sections of the Alsea River, between the town of Alsea and the mouth at Alsea Bay, provide a mix of riffles, pools, and runs that are ideal for both summer and winter steelhead. This area is popular with anglers who enjoy wading and bank fishing. Access points like Blackberry Campground and Mike Bauer Wayside offer easy entry to productive stretches of the river.
• Upper River: The upper reaches of the Alsea River, particularly near the town of Alsea and the North Fork Alsea River, offer solitude and excellent fishing for both summer and winter steelhead. The river is narrower and faster here, making it ideal for fly fishing or drift fishing. The North Fork Alsea Fish Hatchery is a key area for anglers targeting hatchery-raised steelhead, as many fish congregate near the hatchery during the peak of the run.
• Alsea Bay: While most steelhead fishing occurs upstream, the estuary at Alsea Bay can also be productive, particularly for anglers trolling or drift fishing from boats. Steelhead often stage in the bay before heading upriver, making it a good spot to catch them early in the season.

Tides and Water Conditions

Water conditions play a significant role in steelhead fishing success on the Alsea River. Understanding how tides, water levels, and clarity affect steelhead behavior can help you plan your trip and increase your chances of catching fish.

• Tides: In the lower river and Alsea Bay, tides can influence steelhead movement. Fish are more likely to move into the river on an incoming tide, so fishing during the last few hours of the incoming tide or slack tide can be productive.
• Water Levels: After heavy rains, water levels in the Alsea River rise, which encourages steelhead to move upstream. Fishing during or immediately after a rise in water levels can be highly productive, as fish are more active during these periods. However, extremely high or muddy water can make fishing more difficult.
• Water Clarity: Steelhead are more likely to bite in slightly stained water, where they feel less exposed. Clear water can make fish more wary, while very muddy water can reduce visibility and make fishing challenging. After a rainstorm, as the water begins to clear, fishing can be particularly good.

Gear and Tackle for Steelhead Fishing

Having the right gear is essential for a successful steelhead fishing trip on the Alsea River. Here’s a breakdown of the equipment you'll need:

• Rods: A medium to medium-heavy action rod, 8 to 10 feet in length, is ideal for steelhead fishing. Longer rods are preferred for float fishing and fly fishing, as they provide better control and casting distance.
• Reels: Spinning and baitcasting reels are both suitable for steelhead fishing. The reel should have a smooth drag system to handle the powerful runs of steelhead. Reels should be spooled with 10 to 15-pound test line for summer steelhead and 12 to 20-pound test line for winter steelhead.
• Terminal Tackle: A selection of hooks, sinkers, and swivels is necessary for drift fishing or float fishing. Circle hooks or barbless hooks are often used for steelhead, as they improve hookup rates and are easier on the fish. Sinkers should be light enough to drift naturally with the current but heavy enough to keep your bait near the bottom.
• Bait and Lures: Cured salmon eggs, shrimp, and nightcrawlers are all excellent choices for targeting steelhead on the Alsea River. Jigs, spinners, and plugs are also effective, especially in deeper water or when the fish are holding in specific areas. Having a variety of bait and lures on hand allows you to adapt to changing conditions and steelhead preferences.

Regulations and Licensing

Before heading out to fish for steelhead on the Alsea River, it's important to familiarize yourself with Oregon's fishing regulations. These regulations are in place to protect steelhead populations and ensure sustainable fishing practices. Key points to remember include:

• Fishing License: All anglers are required to have a valid Oregon fishing license, and a Columbia River Basin Endorsement may be required if fishing in the tidal areas of the Alsea River.
• Bag Limits: There are specific bag limits for hatchery and wild steelhead. Hatchery-raised steelhead have a clipped adipose fin and can be harvested, while wild steelhead must be released unharmed. Always check the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) website for the most up-to-date regulations on bag limits and fishing seasons.
• Catch-and-Release: In certain sections of the Alsea River, catch-and-release regulations may apply to protect wild steelhead populations. Be sure to handle fish carefully and release them promptly to ensure their survival.

Conclusion

The Alsea River is a premier destination for steelhead fishing, offering year-round opportunities to catch both summer and winter steelhead in a beautiful and tranquil setting. With its diverse fishing environments, abundant steelhead runs, and accessible locations, the Alsea River provides an unforgettable experience for anglers of all skill levels. By understanding the best seasons, techniques, and locations, and by using the right gear and following local regulations, you'll be well-prepared for a successful and rewarding steelhead fishing adventure on the Alsea River.