Who is best suited to this destination? Anglers with some experience will get the most out of this destination. The river is typically clear and presentations need to be good. The fish here are typically large and it may take a few fly changes and multiple presentations to get one to eat. Many times you will see where the fish are holding, especially in the upper portions of this river. The lower end offers more ledge structure and your guide will know where to put the boat to present your cast to these holding spots.
Where is the river? The Williamson River is on the upstream end of the community of Chiloquin, OR.
How do I get there? The closest commercial airport is in Medford, about 70 miles from the river. From the Rogue Valley Int’l airport guests can rent a car and drive to the riverside accommodations. Guests coming from the Pacific Northwest are welcome to arrive via their personal vehicles.
When should I go? The season here is June – October. The early season success can be contingent on spring runoff, but by early July the river settles and the Hexegenia mayfly hatch gets going. By August the lake waters warm and more large rainbow trout migrate into the cool spring-fed river. By September the evenings start to cool and the river receives less pressure until it closes again at the end of October.
How will I fish? The Williamson is a unique fishery that may have you fishing some unfamiliar ways. There are limited options for traditional dry fly fishing and most fish are taken on subsurface offerings of either nymphs or streamers.
Is there wade fishing? There is not, guests will drift the entire section and fish from the boat.
Where will I fish? There is one float which starts in Chiloquin and is a 4.5 mile stretch to a private take-out about a mile upriver from Klamath Lake.
How long does it take to reach the fishing grounds? This will depend on where guests stay and can range from 15-minutes to an hour.
What type(s) of fish will I catch? Rainbow trout are the target on the Williamson and large fish are present. If you decide to venture out to one of several other systems, you may encounter some brown trout and increase your dry fly fishing opportunities.
How many fish will I catch? The Williamson is a trophy trout river and thus not a numbers fishery. A few fish over 20 inches in the day is decent. If you prefer more action, there are a few other local streams that can have you getting a few more fish to hand on a typical day.
Will I see other anglers? Yes, you’re likely to see other anglers accessing the public water put-in.
What are the guides like? Paul McDonald is a full-time fishing guide who is friendly, knowledgeable and fun to fish with. He has a keen sense for stalking trout, whether it’s in his homeland of New Zealand or the clear waters surrounding Klamath Lake. His skills are well matched for this venue.
What are the physical demands? The trip is not demanding at all, guests will be in the boat all day and should note that weather may include very hot days to rainy days. There may be some short hikes if you decide to see some of the other local streams.
Are there any special skills required? There are no special skills required.
Does the lodge provide equipment? Rods and reels with the pertinent lines can be provided. All the flies and terminal tackle is as well. Guests will need to bring their own waders and boots if the would like to wear them for rain protection.
What is your favorite setup for the trip? A fast action 6 weight is best for throwing streamers and nymphs on long leaders on the Williamson. Bringing along a 5 weight with a floating line is a great option for dry flies and the smaller streams in the area.
What are the top flies? In summertime through fall, various caddis patterns in size 16 to 18 will do well, and in the heat of summer PMDs and terrestrials such as grasshoppers and ants may work nicely. Throughout the season, anglers will do well to have an assortment of streamers and midges at hand. Paul will have all the flies that you will need for the conditions during your angling trip, but for a more specific list you can call the Fly Water Travel office.
[Freshwater only] What are the options if water conditions become challenging? Be prepared to fish in any weather condition. If the conditions are too challenging and you are unable to fish you will have the day to yourself to explore the surrounding area.
What is a typical day like? Depending on the time of year, anglers will meet Paul at the put-in around 8:30 AM and fish until lunch time. Folks will typically be off the river around 5:00 PM and have the evening to themselves.
Where do we eat, and what are the meals like? Paul will provide a standard bagged lunch for your days on the river. Breakfasts and dinner will be on your own either in Chiloquin or Klamath Falls. For more meal options or grocery stores, we recommend looking in Klamath Falls.
What is the alcohol policy? Paul will not provide alcohol during your float days.
Where do we stay, and what are the accommodations like? Guests will either stay in hotels or vacation rentals in the Klamath Valley. There are a range of options from incredibly simple to simple, yet comfortable resort rentals.
Is there internet and/or cell service? Cell coverage is decent while on the river and in Klamath Falls, this will vary by carrier.
Are there other activities? Crater Lake is certainly worth seeing and a short drive away. The Rogue Valley is close as well and adding some guided fishing for steelhead is worth your while. The Ashland, OR area has many wineries to tour and the Shakespeare festival is well known if you want to catch a play and a fabulous dinner at one of many fine restaurants.
Are there any other expenses? Accommodations, meals, alcohol, gratuities, fishing licenses and transportation are all additional fees to consider.
Do I need a visa? A visa is not needed for this trip.
Are there any health concerns, dangers or annoyances? Early season can see some mosquitoes.
We recommend that guests always consult with the U.S. Department of State and the Center For Disease Control websites for general travel information and guidelines.
