Elk River Salmon Fishing
The Elk River is located near the coastal town of Port Orford. Port Orford is a picturesque Oregon coastal town. Commercial fishing still plays a big part in the business of this town. With both ocean and river fishing available; you better like fishing if you live here.
Elk River Chinook Fishing
The peak months for Chinook salmon fishing are November and December and there no prettier river to fish on than the Elk River. This is a great time to take an Oregon fishing vacation and experience the beauties of Southern Oregon Salmon fishing.
The Elk River has a fish hatchery on it. Oregon’s Fish and Game plant a lot of Fall Chinook in it. Two salmon per day may be kept. These fish average 15 to 20 pounds. Fish over 40 pounds can be taken though.
Many of the salmon have sea lice on them, which is a good sign. That means they are fresh from the ocean. Being this close to the ocean means excellent eating salmon and great battles down the river.
Both wild and hatchery fish may be taken. This is a very small stream and drift boats only are allowed. Typically the salmon fishing is good action and I highly recommend this fishing trip. This is one of my favorite rivers to fish for salmon.
Elk River Steelhead Fishing
Let’s not forget about the steelhead on the Elk River as well. These fish are super hot. Running and jumping and ripping the line off the reel. Again being so close to the ocean gives these fish an extra gear. The Elk is an aggressive river; with its fast runs and sharp corners there is little time wasted. These battles are extra intense. Usually we use light spinning tackle for these fish.
The Elk River’s water is often a turquoise color and these fish are so beautiful as a blend-in with their habitat. Five to 8 per day for the boat.is an average day on this river. These fish average 8 to 10 pounds with many larger specimens taken. Two steelhead a day per person may be kept.
This season goes from late December through the end of March. Another one of Oregon’s great gems!
Accommodations are available in Port Orford. A few that I recommend:
- Battle Rock Motel at 541-332-7331
- Shoreline Motel at 541-332-2903
- Sea Crest Motel at 541-332-3040
