The Klamath River is California’s second-largest river system, flowing 257 miles from Southern Oregon to the Pacific Ocean. Its rugged beauty is characterized by steep forested canyons, fast chutes, and meandering runs. Once the third-largest salmon producing river on the West Coast, the Klamath now has five dams. However, beginning in 2023 four of the dams will be removed, which will be the world’s largest dam removal project.

The Klamath receives a summer and winter run of steelhead, with summer fish entering in August. By November, steelhead will begin their arrival at Iron Gate Dam and will concentrate below it through February. Klamath steelhead are more known for numbers than size, many of them being “half-pounders” in the 14-20 inch range. The occasional 10 pound fish is possible, however.

Chinook salmon, although less abundant than steelhead, are the largest fish in the system. 10-15 pounders are common, with some reaching up to 30 pounds. The spring run begins in April and finishes in June. The fall run begins in August and ends in October.

Anadromous fish like salmon & steelhead use rainstorms as opportunities for migration, as higher water makes for easier travel. The best fishing is found after storms when water recedes. Steelhead in the Klamath hold in walking-speed water 3-8 feet deep, whereas chinook hold in deeper pools. Anadromous fish do not typically feed in fresh water and will only strike out of aggression, although steelhead will feed on salmon eggs when present.

Rainbow trout live in the Klamath year-round. The best time to target them is from April-June during the Salmonfly & Stonefly hatches.

Much of the river can be accessed by the public off Highway 96. Numerous fishing guides offer float trips as well. US Forest Service & private campgrounds are present.