Advice Needed

[STRYKER 1]

Hello all, I just found this site and my compliments to the founders,it is really great.I hated fishing as a child but in the last 10 years I have found it to be a great method of relaxing. I have done some lake fishing in the area lakes. I just ousted the 30+ year old boat and picked up a 19ft alum. jet. I now must learn more so I can use it enough to justify the expense. I have done some river fishing in Alaska with coho flies from shore but that is about it. I need any and all advice I can get regarding Salmon/Steelhead/Bass fishing in Oregon rivers within a hour or so of Salem.Recommendations on baits, equipment, times, waterways, what to do about tide changes when fishing coastal inlets as not to be traped on a sand bar. I have done a few trips crabbing at the inlet of the Little Nestucca out of Pacific City over 10 years ago, we only ran aground about 15 times coming and going. Its great to meet all of you and I appreciate any and all advice. Thanks, STRYKER 1

[fishhunter]

I'm with ya man, fishing is truly and art. However, you better narrow it down a little. A full size book couldn't tell you all you need to know about every river and stream in Oregon. Where would you like to start?...

[Pilar]

A long time ago my grandpa instilled in me the principles which I still use today. When you find a place of interest bring yourself only, the first time. Do a lot of watching and little talking, unless someone is friendly to you and wants to talk. Check out what is going on. You'll be able to pay attention, since you have no tackle to distract you.

I find that I am a lot less threatening as a gaper with no tackle than a competitor, ready to fish. People will tell me all kinds of stuff, which I use later.

There is no substitute for a knowledgeable fishing partner. Someday you'll be that guy and able to pass it on to a newbie. You must know someone who could take you out to someplace to get started.

You could always hire a guide. It seems expensive until you look at it as a learning experience. One trip could be worth alot of unenlightened thrashing around on your own!
Most guides love to teach new guys.

I guess the thing to realize is that it takes a while before you know something. Relax and enjoy it. I envy you, as you are at the beginning of the journey, with lots of cool stuff to look forward to. Good luck and this is the place to get specific questions answered.

The bend is your friend!

[Salmonator]

I second the Fishing In Oregon book. I've about wore out my third edition. It lists just about every body of water in the state and what to use and when to go. Buy this book and a few good forest service maps and you will find a bazillion hike-in cascade lakes that most people had no idea were there... Sal

[Phish_on]

There really is no substitute for just going out with someone who is familiar with how to fish a certain spot.

An hour from Salem ... that gives you what - the Santiam, the Willamette ... ? ? ?

[chuck 'n' duck]

I think that you will find the book "Fishing in Oregon" an invaluable resource. It has lots of info. about the various fisheries around the state. For fishing tech. tips, I would check out the appropriate books from Amato publications. Also, go back to previous posts within this board, and the one located at piscatorialpursuits.com. Reading these old posts will help you learn a great deal of information about fishing for salmon and steelhead in Oregon and Washington.

Tight Lines and Good Luck,

Chuck 'n' Duck