Experience Washington canyon fishing with a licensed guide and discover secluded fishing holes only the locals know about. Trained guides help anglers while hoping to hook the "big one" in Hells Canyon, located just outside the city of Clarkston. The Lewis-Clark Valley is a haven for both outdoor sports enthusiasts and vacationing families. Cultural events and rural festivals celebrating local communities occur throughout the year.
Fishing Seasons
The Hell's Canyon area of Washington is home to the Snake, Clearwater and Salmon Rivers. In the Lewis-Clark Valley, both anglers and hunters converge in the Hell's Canyon National Recreation Area. Steelhead fishing and guided boat excursions to lesser-known fishing spots occur year-round. Licensed fishing guides route canyon anglers to "honey holes" where scores of steelhead, rainbow trout, sturgeon and bass congregate. Anglers can cast a line for bass and rainbow trout from May through September. Steelhead fishing licenses are available from September through March. From March to September, anglers can gear up to catch trophy-size sturgeon from the waterways around Hell's Canyon.
Recreation Area FAQ
The Hell's Canyon National Recreation Area encompasses 215,000 acres of wilderness and scenic rivers. Hunters and anglers can hike up to 900 miles in search of the perfect fishing or hunting location inside the national park. There are 36 picnic and campsites scattered about the canyon region. While most of the campsites are primitive, some do have access to either electrical hookups or a bathhouse. The park office issues permits for overnight use and provides maps of the canyon to visitors.
Fishing Guides
As of 2010, 14 guided fishing tour companies offered excursions in canyons of Washington. Both single- and multiple-day guided charters for fishing trips are offered year-round. Depending on the tour company, fishing equipment and bait are also included in the tour price. Day trips in search of trophy-size sturgeon typically occur in the lower Hell's Canyon region on Snake River. The Grande Ronde is the small water tributary that is popular with salmon-seeking anglers.
Terrain and Access
Hell's Canyon is home to the deepest river gorge in North America. Rugged terrain and varying elevation comprise the geographical characteristics of the region. The Snake River carved a winding slice through the canyon bottom. The canyon is 10 miles wide and doesn't possess any designated roads. All-terrain vehicles, jeeps, air tours, horseback and boats are the main modes of transportation to fishing spots and campgrounds. There are three roads that lead to Snake River access points between the Oregon and Washington boundary and Hell's Canyon Dam.
Lodging
Lodging and tour packages are available for anglers or hunters seeking to spend a weekend or longer in the canyon area. Typical packages include a three-day, two-night canyon adventure complete with shuttle service; guest room at a ranch, lodge or cabin; and a buffet-style lunch. The trained guides share tips with anglers and hunters to enhance their chances of securing a big catch. While traveling by jeep or boat to the desired canyon location, the guides share the history or the area and point out native wildlife.
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