5 of the Best Pacific NW Fishing Holes

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The newly risen sun warms the crisp morning air. You’re sitting on the shore with a pole in your hand. Your fishing gear -- tackle box, bait can, fillet knife -- rests to one side, and a stocked cooler rests on the other. The water is calm and quiet. Fast-forward two minutes. Up on your feet and heart pounding, you’re grinning with pride at one the most beautiful catches you’ve ever seen.

If you're like me, you simply can't resist the thrill of the catch. When you see the tip of your pole bend toward the water a split-second before the powerful pull of the "big one" fighting on the other end, that's the lure of the lake, the draw of the fishing hole, the call of the river. And in order to thoroughly enjoy this coming season, I've highlighted five of the best fishing areas around the Pacific Northwest. 

WASHINGTON - Lewis River

Flowing from the western slopes of Mt. Adams, the north fork of Lewis River is among the most popular in Washington. Before meeting the Columbia River, the Lewis River passes through three dams (Swift, Yale, Merwin). This lower portion of the river, with ample bank and boat access, provides plenty of Coho and Chinook salmon as well as steelhead. Since the lower Lewis has a reputation for productivity, don't be surprised to see fellow anglers, especially in spots near the salmon hatchery and Cedar Creek Hole. Because there are a number of protected species, check with the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife for current and updated information on catch limits.

OREGON - Rogue River

Beginning near Crater Lake in southern Oregon, the Rogue River tends to be divided into three sections -- lower, middle, and upper -- along its 200-mile course. I've heard it said to be "an angler's paradise." The upper and middle sections offer a plethora of opportunities for more than just fishing -- hiking, camping, and white-water rafting are all popular. Serious fisherman, however, should concentrate on the lower portion. If you're strictly looking for good fish, specifically King and Silver salmon, the lower section of the Rogue is your best bet since it has great prospects in the fall and spring.

OREGON/IDAHO - Brownlee Reservoir

Part of the Snake River, the 57-mile long Brownlee Reservoir is the uppermost of the Hells Canyon recreation area. Many have claimed Brownlee to be the best warm water fishery in the western United States, and the reservoir is among the most heavily fished waters in Idaho. Expect smallmouth bass, catfish, and crappie; don't be surprised to see perch, bluegill, largemouth bass, and rainbow trout, either. The reservoir acts as the border between Oregon and Idaho, so anglers who possess a fishing license in either state can fish the reservoir as long as they do not fish from the shore of the state in which they do not possess a valid license. I'd have to say this particular spot is my personal favorite. Nothing beats floating peacefully in the water on a hot summer day casting and catching all day long. 

IDAHO - River of No Return (Salmon River)

I must admit, the draw for me to this particular site was its rich history and immense size. The Salmon River is often referred to as the "River of No Return" because years ago a boat could navigate down river but not back up through the fast water and rushing rapids. The river is located in the aptly named Frank Church-River of No Return wilderness area, the second largest wilderness preservation area in the lower 48. The canyon which the Salmon runs through is deeper than most (including the Grand Canyon) and hosts a variety of landscapes while running its course. Rainbows, cutthroats, graylings, and brook trout are all common catches. 

IDAHO - Kelly Creek

Located in the northern part of Clearwater National Forest, Kelly Creek is said to be known by fly fishermen from all over the world as the premier fly fishing water in Idaho. In addition to its beautiful scenery, Kelly Creek is an excellent river to fish, specifically for westslope cutthroat, or "cuts" as the locals say. You'll also see mountain whitefish, rainbows, and the occasional bull trout. Seasoned anglers at Kelly Creek will tell you the fish are plentiful and usually bite regardless of any particular fly. As they say, "Tight lines at Kelly Creek, Idaho."

In your haste to find great fishing, don't forget to pack important essentials. Of course, you'll have the obvious -- a rod, tackle, and a fillet knife. Pack a fishing light, too. Even though many boats come equipped with fishing lights, bringing a hand-held fishing light will add security to your trip. I'd recommend getting a quality flex light for optimal beam direction and hands-free use. You just never know when a fishing light will come in handy. 
~Richard McNeal, 2009

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