Klamath River Fishing Report

Klamath River - Upper - OR


by OR Department of Fish & Wildlife Staff
11-3-2021
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Keno Dam to J.C Boyle Reservoir

Catch rates were low on opening day and effort was very high. Fishing remains slow. Remember bait is not allowed and only one fish over 15 inches can be harvested per day. Also, remember that once you retain your one redband/rainbow trout limit you must stop fishing for redband/rainbow trout.

Flows (761 cfs) and water temperatures look to be ideal -- for fishing and wading. Large trout in this reach start to feed on the many fat head minnows and chub coming down from above Keno Dam. Few trout over 18 inches are being caught this fall. Flies and lures that mimic these minnows will be successful. Remember the Klamath River eats your fishing gear. Jig style hooks, heavy line and single barbless hooks can reduce the likelihood of losing a lot of gear.

This section of the river is very challenging fishing with white water and treacherous wading. The river is loaded with boulders and drop offs. ODFW recommends a wading staff, wading belt, excellent wading boots with studs, and maybe even a helmet and shin guards!

Public access is difficult but you can drive a horrendous road to immediately below Keno Dam. All other sites require a significant hike to the river.

J.C. Boyle Dam to J.C Boyle Powerhouse

Open all year. Flows are low and stable. Catch rates should be good. Fishing is best below the spring inputs. The springs start to discharge into the river approximately one mile below J.C. Boyle Dam. This section of river requires a hike down steep grade to the river with the exception of the area just above the powerhouse.

Use small flies as fish are small in this section.

There is good access at the powerhouse. Park and walk upstream. This area is fished hard but you can hike to get away from the pressure. Hiking or wading upstream is difficult. Small nymphs such as pheasant tails and prince nymphs work well in this section. Small black Panther Martins or Rooster Tails work well cast upstream into the deeper pools.




More Reports

OR Department of Fish & Wildlife Reports
for Wednesday, November 3rd, 2021

Blitzen River: No recent reports but fall can be a great time to fish the Blitzen River
Campbell Reservoir: The Reservoir is Dry
Chickahominy Reservoir: Chickahominy Reservoir is now dry
Delintment Lake: Fall fishing can be great at Delintment Lake
John C Boyle Reservoir: A few largemouth bass and crappie are being caught
Upper Klamath Lake: The lake is 4.3 feet below full pool and 36 percent full

ODFW Recreation Report

10-29-2021
Best bets for weekend fishing The coho salmon run has been a bright spot this season, with a strong return and...... Read More