Alsea River Trout Fishing

The Alsea River, winding through Oregon’s coastal region, is a hidden gem for trout fishing enthusiasts. Known for its lush, scenic surroundings and abundant fish populations, this river offers a peaceful yet exciting angling experience. While many anglers flock to the Alsea for salmon and steelhead, the river also provides excellent opportunities for catching various species of trout, including rainbow, cutthroat, and sea-run cutthroat trout.

Overview of the Alsea River

The Alsea River is 48 miles long and flows westward from the Oregon Coast Range to the Pacific Ocean. Along its course, the river passes through forests, farms, and small towns, eventually reaching its estuary at Alsea Bay near the town of Waldport. The Alsea River and its tributaries offer a diverse habitat for trout, from fast-flowing riffles and deep pools to slower-moving waters in the lower sections.

The river is divided into two primary sections: the mainstem Alsea River and the North Fork Alsea River. Both sections support healthy populations of trout, making them popular destinations for anglers seeking a mix of wild and hatchery fish.

Trout Species in the Alsea River

The Alsea River is home to several trout species, each offering a unique challenge and reward for anglers.

• Rainbow Trout: The most common trout species in the Alsea River, rainbow trout are known for their vibrant colors and fighting spirit. These fish can be found in both the main river and its tributaries. Rainbow trout in the Alsea River typically range from 8 to 16 inches, though larger specimens are occasionally caught. The river also hosts a limited number of hatchery-raised rainbow trout, which are stocked in certain areas to supplement the wild population.
• Cutthroat Trout: The Alsea River is famous for its population of cutthroat trout, particularly the sea-run cutthroat variety. Sea-run cutthroat trout are born in freshwater but migrate to the ocean for part of their life cycle, similar to steelhead. These trout return to the river in late summer and fall to spawn and can grow larger than their freshwater counterparts. Resident cutthroat trout can be found throughout the river system, often in deeper pools and under cover along the riverbanks.
• Sea-Run Cutthroat Trout: These cutthroat trout are highly prized by anglers for their size and fighting ability. Sea-run cutthroat trout, also known as "bluebacks," return to the Alsea River from the ocean in late summer, typically from August to October. These fish can reach lengths of 12 to 20 inches or more, and their aggressive behavior makes them a favorite target for fly and spin anglers alike.

While rainbow and cutthroat trout are the primary species available in the Alsea River, the diversity of habitats in the river means that each section offers a unique fishing experience.

Best Seasons for Trout Fishing on the Alsea River

Timing is a critical factor in trout fishing success, and the Alsea River offers excellent fishing opportunities throughout the year. However, certain seasons are better for targeting specific species and maximizing your chances of landing trophy fish.

• Spring (March to June): Spring is one of the best times to fish for rainbow and resident cutthroat trout on the Alsea River. As water temperatures rise, trout become more active and begin feeding aggressively. Insects, such as mayflies and caddisflies, hatch during this time, providing ample food for trout. Fishing with flies, spinners, and natural baits can be highly productive during the spring months.
• Summer (July to September): Summer brings lower water levels and warmer temperatures, which can make trout fishing more challenging. However, this is also the prime time to target sea-run cutthroat trout as they return to the river from the ocean. Fishing in the early morning and late evening when the water is cooler can improve your chances of success. Focus on deeper pools, shaded areas, and sections of the river with cooler inflows.
• Fall (October to November): Fall is another excellent season for trout fishing on the Alsea River, particularly for sea-run cutthroat. As the fish move upriver to spawn, they become more aggressive and easier to target with flies, lures, and bait. Resident cutthroat and rainbow trout are also active during this time, feeding heavily in preparation for winter.
• Winter (December to February): While winter is typically associated with steelhead fishing, resident trout can still be caught in the Alsea River during the colder months. Fishing for trout in winter can be more challenging due to higher water levels and colder temperatures, but dedicated anglers can still find success by focusing on slower-moving water and using smaller presentations.

Techniques for Trout Fishing on the Alsea River

Several techniques are effective for trout fishing on the Alsea River, including fly fishing, spin fishing, and bait fishing. The method you choose will depend on the species you’re targeting, the time of year, and your personal preferences.

1. Fly Fishing

Fly fishing is one of the most popular and effective methods for targeting trout on the Alsea River, particularly for resident rainbow trout and sea-run cutthroat trout. The river’s clear waters, diverse insect life, and varying depths make it an ideal location for fly anglers.

• Flies: Trout in the Alsea River feed on a wide variety of insects, making it important to match the hatch. In the spring and summer, mayflies, caddisflies, and stoneflies are abundant. Dry flies, such as Parachute Adams, Elk Hair Caddis, and Stimulators, work well during hatches. During the fall, nymphs and streamers become more effective, with patterns like the Hare’s Ear, Pheasant Tail, and Woolly Bugger being popular choices.
• Tackle: A 4 to 6-weight fly rod with a medium-fast action is ideal for trout fishing on the Alsea River. Floating fly lines are best for fishing dry flies, while sink-tip or full-sinking lines can be useful for nymphs and streamers in deeper pools.

2. Spin Fishing

Spin fishing is another highly effective technique for trout fishing on the Alsea River, particularly for anglers targeting resident cutthroat or rainbow trout. Spin fishing allows you to cover more water and reach deeper pools where trout are likely to be holding.

• Lures: Small spinners, spoons, and crankbaits are all effective for targeting trout in the Alsea River. Spinners such as Panther Martins, Rooster Tails, and Blue Fox Vibrax work well in both fast-moving riffles and slower pools. For deeper water, spoons like the Kastmaster or Little Cleo are excellent options. Bright colors like silver, gold, and orange can attract aggressive strikes from trout.
• Tackle: A light to medium-light spinning rod, 6 to 7 feet in length, is ideal for trout fishing on the Alsea River. Reels should be spooled with 4 to 8-pound test line, with fluorocarbon leaders for added stealth in clear water.

3. Bait Fishing

Bait fishing is a time-honored technique for catching trout, and it can be especially effective on the Alsea River, particularly when targeting deeper pools and slower sections of the river.

• Baits: Nightcrawlers, salmon eggs, and small shrimp are all excellent bait choices for trout in the Alsea River. These natural baits can be drifted along the bottom with a split shot or suspended under a bobber. For sea-run cutthroat trout, using sand shrimp or small pieces of cured roe can be particularly effective.
• Tackle: A light to medium-action spinning rod with a reel spooled with 4 to 6-pound test line is ideal for bait fishing. The key to success with bait fishing is using enough weight to keep your bait near the bottom while allowing it to drift naturally with the current.

Best Locations for Trout Fishing on the Alsea River

The Alsea River offers numerous fishing spots that are accessible to both bank anglers and those fishing from boats. Here are some of the top locations for trout fishing on the Alsea River:

• North Fork Alsea River: The North Fork Alsea River is a tributary of the main Alsea River and is well-known for its healthy population of resident trout. The river is narrower and more intimate than the mainstem, making it a great place for fly fishing and wading. The North Fork also offers opportunities for catching sea-run cutthroat trout during the late summer and fall.
• Alsea River Mainstem: The mainstem of the Alsea River provides excellent fishing for both rainbow and cutthroat trout, particularly in the mid-river sections near the towns of Alsea and Tidewater. Deep pools, riffles, and undercut banks offer prime habitat for trout. Access points like Blackberry Campground and Campbell Park provide easy entry to productive fishing areas.
• Alsea River Estuary (Alsea Bay): The estuary at Alsea Bay is a prime location for targeting sea-run cutthroat trout as they return from the ocean. The estuary’s tidal influence means that trout can be found in both fresh and brackish water, making it a unique fishing experience. Fishing near the mouths of tributaries and along the bay’s grassy shorelines can be highly productive during the summer and fall months.
• Highway 34 Access Points: Highway 34 runs alongside much of the Alsea River, providing numerous pull-offs and public access points for anglers. These access points allow for easy entry to the river and are ideal for bank fishing or wading. Popular spots include Mike Bauer Wayside, Salmonberry Campground, and Missouri Bend.

Regulations and Licensing

Before fishing on the Alsea River, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with Oregon’s fishing regulations to ensure that you are in compliance with state laws. Key points to keep in mind include:

• Fishing License: All anglers over the age of 12 are required to have a valid Oregon fishing license. A combined angling tag is also required for those targeting salmon, steelhead, and sturgeon. Licenses and tags can be purchased online or at local retailers.
• Bag Limits: The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) sets specific bag limits for trout, including restrictions on the number of wild fish that can be kept. For example, in many sections of the Alsea River, anglers are only allowed to keep hatchery-raised trout with a clipped adipose fin. Wild trout must be released unharmed.
• Protected Species: Be sure to familiarize yourself with the identification of protected species, such as wild steelhead or coho salmon, which must be released if accidentally caught while fishing for trout.
• Seasonal Restrictions: Some sections of the Alsea River may be closed to fishing during certain times of the year to protect spawning fish. Always check the ODFW website for the most up-to-date information on fishing seasons and regulations.

Gear and Tackle for Trout Fishing

Having the right gear is crucial for a successful trout fishing trip on the Alsea River. Here’s a breakdown of the basic gear you’ll need:

• Rods: A 4 to 6-weight fly rod for fly fishing or a light spinning rod for spin and bait fishing is ideal. For spin fishing, a rod length of 6 to 7 feet allows for easy casting in tight areas along the riverbanks.
• Reels: Spinning reels should be spooled with 4 to 8-pound test monofilament or fluorocarbon line. Fly reels should be balanced with your rod and loaded with floating line for dry flies or sink-tip line for nymphs and streamers.
• Terminal Tackle: A selection of hooks, weights, and leaders is necessary for bait fishing or spin fishing. Barbless hooks may be required in some sections of the river to minimize harm to released fish.
• Lures and Bait: Carry a variety of spinners, spoons, and flies, along with natural baits like nightcrawlers and salmon eggs. Matching your presentation to the conditions and the trout’s feeding habits is key to success.

Conclusion

The Alsea River offers an exceptional trout fishing experience, with opportunities to target both resident and sea-run trout in a pristine, natural setting. Whether you’re fly fishing for rainbow trout in the upper reaches of the river, spin fishing for cutthroat in the deeper pools, or targeting sea-run cutthroat in the estuary, the Alsea River provides something for every angler.

By understanding the best seasons, techniques, and locations, and by using the appropriate gear and following local regulations, you’ll be well-prepared for a productive and rewarding trout fishing adventure on the Alsea River. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, the Alsea River offers an unforgettable fishing experience that’s sure to keep you coming back year after year.