N Umpqua - Blind Leading The Blind

[elvisboats]

Howdy folks. I was wondering....

We're going to be staying at the River Vista Vacation Homes near Glide with my family. (http://rivervista-vacationhomes.com (http://rivervista-vacationhomes.com/) - they've been awesome by the way) My buddy and I wanted to wet a line, since we're right on the river... even tho its between steelhead runs, I hear there might be a salmon or two in the vicinity.

Here's my question - Basically, I'm clueless, and we're limited in mobility since my friend is seeing impaired. Do I need to bring a driftboat? Does anybody know where we could start?

[AndyK]

Here's my question - Basically, I'm clueless, and we're limited in mobility since my friend is seeing impaired. Do I need to bring a driftboat? Does anybody know where we could start?

Forget the drift boat on the upper river (fly water). Most fly fishermen, even the guides, walk. Fortunately, the fly water is almost entirely public access.

There is access for even the sight impaired, but wading can be tough. Best way to learn the river is with a guide or someone who is experienced. You can drive the road and look for good water.

The summer steelhead count at Winchester was 106 through 15 May. I’m sure there are many more fish in the river now.

I’ll be down there the weekend of 20-21 June, but I’ll be running a retriever in the Umpqua Valley Retriever Club hunt tests.

Good luck.

[dre5063]

There is a disabled fishing area at Swiftwater Park if your friend qualifies. It's a few miles upstream from Glide, can't miss the park.

[elvisboats]

Thanks everybody - its much appreciated.

[CWOregon]

Depends if you are just fly fishing or open to other types. The disabled fishing platform at Swiftwater park is great, I saw a guy limit out with 2 springers about 20 lbs a piece yesterday morning by about 8:00. Run a bobber with your depth set to around 17-18 feet. Sand shrimp/egg combo or an anchovy should get you a fish. Get there early though, the good spots get filled up quick. You may have to let him know when he gets a bite but if you want to get into any salmon that would be the easiest/safest spot for him.

[Grantspastor]

The N Umpqua is driftable from Glide down river, but don't try it unless you are a true expert on the oars. There are a couple of Class IV rapids, and many narrow chutes. Even if you are an expert, it would be good to do this one with somebody else first.