Meet Chris
We'll meet at the planned launch area, get everyone comfortable and go over the day before pushing off.
McKenzie River · Oregon
McKenzie River
Fishing
Trout or steelhead, fly or conventional. Chris handles the boat, gear and river so you can focus on fishing.
March–OctoberSeasonal trout & steelhead opportunities.
Fly or conventionalUse the method that fits your group.
All gear providedFishing and safety equipment included.
No waders requiredFish comfortably from the drift boat.
The McKenzie Experience
Plenty of action. No complicated expectations.
The McKenzie is a beautiful river to fish, and you don't need years of experience—or a closet full of gear—to enjoy it.
Most trout trips focus on the river's stocked rainbow trout. They're plentiful, fun to catch and give first-time anglers, kids and families a real chance at steady action. Legal fish can be kept, which also makes the trip a great way to bring home dinner.
Wild native redsides are a different experience. They're much harder to come by, and when one shows up it's something special. We love photographing those fish and releasing them carefully, but we don't build the day around promising one.
Whether you want to cast flies, fish conventional tackle, or simply learn as you go, Chris will tailor the day to the group in the boat.
What a Day Looks Like
Easy to show up. Easy to enjoy.
Fish from the boat
No waders are necessary. Chris positions the drift boat while you fish productive water throughout the day.
Use what works
Fly or conventional tackle is available. Beginners get as much hands-on help as they want.
Enjoy the river
Fishing is the focus, but the scenery, wildlife and relaxed pace are part of what make the McKenzie special.
Trout
McKenzie Trout Trips
For most guests, this is the place to start. Stocked rainbows provide the bulk of the action, and they're perfect for families, new anglers or anyone who simply wants to spend a day catching fish on a beautiful river.
Full day: approximately 7–8 hours.
Half day: approximately 4 hours.
Steelhead
McKenzie Steelhead
For anglers looking for a bigger challenge, seasonal steelhead trips offer a completely different kind of day. These fish take more patience than trout, but connecting with one is worth the wait.
Steelhead trips are full-day outings and availability depends on season and river conditions. Call or text Chris to talk timing.
First Time Fishing?
Perfect.
You do not need prior river or fly-fishing experience.
Chris regularly works with first-time anglers and families. The goal isn't to turn the day into a lesson unless you want one—it's to get everyone comfortable, fishing and having fun.
All fishing tackle and safety equipment are provided. Dress for the weather and bring your Oregon fishing license when required.
From the River to the Table
Want to take some trout home?
Want to take some trout home? Legal trout you choose to keep can be cleaned and prepared for the trip home by Chris. If you'd like to learn how it's done, he's happy to show you too.
Watch Chris clean a trout. A simple look at how your catch is cleaned and prepared after a successful day on the river.
McKenzie Fishing Rates
Simple pricing.
All fishing and safety gear is provided. Full-day trips offer a riverside lunch.
Full Day · Approximately 7–8 Hours
McKenzie Trout or Steelhead
$600
$300/person · two paid-person minimum
- Seasonal opportunities March through October
- Fishing from the drift boat
- Fly or conventional tackle
- All fishing & safety gear provided
- Riverside lunch available
Half Day · Trout · Approximately 4 Hours
McKenzie Trout
$500
$250/person · two paid-person minimum
- Great for first-time anglers and families
- Fishing from the drift boat
- Fly or conventional tackle
- All fishing & safety gear provided
Coming solo? Absolutely. One guest is welcome to book by covering the minimum trip fare.
Need a shorter day? No problem. Trips can be tailored to your schedule; standard trip rates still apply.
Ready to Fish?
Let's put a day on the McKenzie together.
Call, text or email Chris with your preferred dates, number of anglers and whether you're interested in trout or steelhead.