Jan Kayak Steelhead Event

I thought I'd start an informational thread about the tentatively scheduled river steelhead fishing trip in January.   

Most of us haven't actually done much swift water fishing from our kayak so we should find some beginner stretch of water to try out.   Water levels can be unpredictable so we may have to stay flexible on dates.  My preference would be to go out on good or even low water and avoid high water all together for this trip.

Anyone have some good suggestions on river stretches to try out somewhere between Portland and Seattle.

Brian

Low water could be a challenge in January. I've heard the lower Sandy is mellow, it's often used as an introduction to moving water for beginners. seems I talked with somebody about going there last January for fishing, but didn't make it.

Brian

Clackamas
Nestucca
Wilson

A group get together would go a long ways toward avoiding the ~$15 shuttle fees

-Spot-

Best numbers for the clack is from Feb on.  there are some fish around in Jan but the larger numbers show up in Feb-July. Best yak drift would be caver to riverside.

I fished the willemette today for steelhead.  Saw one fish for the two boats out there and of course it was in the other guys boat. Water is cold! There are a few winters around, it will only get better

Wilson/trask should be good in Jan.. Mills bridge to sollie smith is cake and good water

The Cowlitz and Kalama are a good distance for both OR & WA.  Anyone know if they have good steely runs in January?

DC

Just found this guide's calendar that recommends Kalama and Quillayut in January.  http://naturesdrift.com/calendar.html

For planning an event, the Cowlitz and the Wynoochee would be good.  not as dependant on rain for the right river levels.  Driving time is about the same from PDX and SEA. Can be very crowded on weekends though. Lots of options in that general area too, satsop, humptulips, chehalis...

We could meet at a place for breakfast and decide were to go that morning depending on river conditions.

Scott

For planning an event, the Cowlitz and the Wynoochee would be good.  not as dependant on rain for the right river levels.  Driving time is about the same from PDX and SEA. Can be very crowded on weekends though. Lots of options in that general area too, satsop, humptulips, chehalis...

We could meet at a place for breakfast and decide were to go that morning depending on river conditions.

Scott

Loving this idea.

Z

If it's a Sunday, I'm in!

Main stem Nehalem is super duper mellow with verry little pressure (catch & release)

That's what I'm working for steelies this year.

I will definitely make this one!