Fishing

Guided fishing trips at the Big K are simply amazing. Nearly 20 years ago, “Big Al” Kesterson committed the business, the guide service and the family to a “Catch and Release” policy, which has helped build one of the best smallmouth bass locations not only in Oregon but the entire West. This fishery, known by many as “The Loop”, also boasts runs of Chinook, Silvers and American Shad.  Fly-fishing for Smallmouth Bass is distinctly effective and active on this ten mile section of Oregon’s Umpqua at the Big K Ranch.

GUIDED FISHING TRIPS

(Fly or Spincast from Driftboat)

Rate includes seasoned guide, boat, fully outfitted gear, and streamside lunch and beverages.
$350.00 per boat per day.

Call for package rates and custom options.

Based on Double Occupancy
(Meals & Lodging Included)

For great fishing chatter online visit iFish.net or follow these links discussing the Big K:

• Family Camp Planned at Big K
• The Lady Ain’t Just Lucky
• Big K Ranch – Oh Yeah!!!
• Big K Ranch on the Umpqua
• Big K Guest Ranch Great Spot For Smallmouth Anglers

Spring Fishing Season

Unexpected weather fronts move in so be prepared for unpredictable weather; meaning rain.

Bring the same clothing and gear as for winter:

• Waterproof Gore-Tex or equivalent outerwear that “breathes” stifling vapor out yet traps body heat beneath.
• Chest waders, for added warmth, and for times when we launch and land. Also repels occasional drizzle or spray from the river.
• Two pairs of toasty socks.
• Mittens or gloves.
• Hand warmer; either chemical packs or lighter fluid kind.

You must have an Oregon fishing license and tag before fishing time.

Be prepared to strip off outer layers of clothing should the day be warm and sunny.
We’ll go for a variety of species; Striped Bass or Sturgeon in tidewater. Then, as the season progresses, we’ll target Spring Chinook, Shad and Smallmouth Bass, along ten remote and fabled miles of the famous Umpqua River “loop”.

Summer Fishing

Fog in the morning and radiating afternoon warmth make for temperature extremes. If you like wearing hiking shorts, consider wearing them beneath jeans. As the fog lifts and the day warms, you’ll be prepared to bask in the sun.

On flies or lures the Bass and Shad action heats up in May and June and scorch ultra-lite reels in are effective in July and August. Also try fly fishing or tossing plugs for Summer Steelhead.
Recommended items to bring:

• Hat, sun-glasses and sun-screen
• Swim suit
• Wading shoes
• Light rain gear
• Camera and film
• Fishing gear, if you like (or use ours).

You must have an Oregon fishing license and tag before fishing time.

Fall Fishing Season

The radiating warmth of Indian Summer, with the leaves turning deep bronze and the hint of crisp wind in the air help make angling in the Fall a heady experience. Since Oregon weather can be unpredictable, be prepared for the winter worst but hope for the summer best and your Autumn angling adventure is sure to be memorable and rewarding.
Bring the same clothing and gear as for winter:

• Waterproof Gore-Tex or equivalent outerwear that “breathes” stifling vapor out yet traps body heat beneath.
• Chest waders, for added warmth, and for times when we launch and land. Also repels occasional drizzle or spray from the river.
• Two pairs of toasty socks.
• Mittens or gloves.
• Hand warmer; either chemical packs or lighter fluid kind.

You must have an Oregon fishing license and tag before fishing time.

As the Smallmouth Bass bite cools in September, the Coho and Fall Chinook bites are coming on strong. We’ll toss spinners on medium-spin or bait casting tackle, or try streamer flies and other patterns.

Winter Fishing Season

Expect changeable weather for Steelhead or late Salmon runs, from near freezing temperatures, to fog, drizzle, rain or sparkling blue skies with sunny days. Some of the best days for fishing in winter are some of the worst days for humans so be scout prepared and bring the following:

• Waterproof Gore-Tex or equivalent outerwear that “breathes” stifling vapor out yet traps body heat beneath.
• Chest waders, for added warmth, and for times when we launch and land. Also repels occasional drizzle or spray from the river.
• Two pairs of toasty socks.
• Mittens or gloves.
• Hand warmer; either chemical packs or lighter fluid kind.

You must have an Oregon fishing license and tag before fishing time.
We’ll be going primarily after Steelhead and Chinook Salmon on the Elk and Sixes rivers from November to January, then Steelheading the Umpqua into March. Your guide will backrow to help you “pull” your plug. He’ll deftly place you ahead of productive pockets, as your Hot Shot, Wiggle Wart, or Kwikfish tricks a chrome-bright Steelie or King.

Fly Fishing

Smallmouth Bass – 5-7 wt. fly rods.

We use mostly nymphs and some top water poppers throughout the season. A floating line with a 9′ 4x to 3x or longer works well. Most of the nymph fishing is sight fishing. You will literally spot and target fish then watch them inhale your fly. These fish are extremely hard fighting fresh water fish. Flies and technique change during the season so if you want more specific information for a specific time of year you can call or email and we will get you information directly from one of our guides.

Shad – 6-8 wt. fly rods.

A 20′ to 25′ shooting head with 300 to 400 grain striking line with a shooting line backing is the most effective. A full sinking line works but is not as effective. We use a 7′ to 9′ 4x to 3x leader. When the shad are in, fly fishing is very effective. These fish average 2 ½ lbs and many in the 3 to 5 lbs range. These fish are some of the hardest fighting fish you will see with many aerial displays. We use a variety of shad flys. Call for more specifics and we can get you directly in contact with a guide.

Steelhead – 7-8 wt. fly rods.

Fly fishing can be very effective for steelhead from July through September. We fish both above and below the fly water zone on the North Umpqua. We strictly fish the North Umpqua above Roseburg for summer steelhead. Since techniques change drastically below fly water and above fly water zone it is best to call for information.

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