Elk River - Port Orford, OR

River Information
Elevation: | 913 ft. |
Fish Species: | Chinook Salmon, Coho Salmon, Cutthroat Trout, Steelhead |
The Elk River, near Port Orford, Oregon, is a pristine coastal river known for its vital wild anadromous fish populations. It offers a quality angling experience primarily for Chinook salmon (fall and spring runs) and winter steelhead, along with sea-run cutthroat trout and some Coho salmon.
Fishing conditions are largely dependent on seasonal flows; dropping and clearing waters provide optimal opportunities. Anglers typically pursue these powerful species using drifting bait, casting plugs, or jigs from boats or accessible bank areas. Fly fishing offers challenging opportunities for steelhead and sea-run cutthroat. Wild Chinook harvest regulations are precise and determined annually, reflecting their sensitive status, while wild steelhead may be harvested under strict limits.
Access to the Elk River is available from Port Orford, though some sections are more remote. Conservation efforts are paramount for its native salmon and steelhead. Anglers must strictly adhere to all Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife (ODFW) regulations, including specific seasons, bag limits, and gear restrictions. The Elk River delivers a high-quality, wild-oriented angling adventure, appealing to those who seek powerful anadromous fish in a beautiful, relatively untouched coastal environment.
Fishing conditions are largely dependent on seasonal flows; dropping and clearing waters provide optimal opportunities. Anglers typically pursue these powerful species using drifting bait, casting plugs, or jigs from boats or accessible bank areas. Fly fishing offers challenging opportunities for steelhead and sea-run cutthroat. Wild Chinook harvest regulations are precise and determined annually, reflecting their sensitive status, while wild steelhead may be harvested under strict limits.
Access to the Elk River is available from Port Orford, though some sections are more remote. Conservation efforts are paramount for its native salmon and steelhead. Anglers must strictly adhere to all Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife (ODFW) regulations, including specific seasons, bag limits, and gear restrictions. The Elk River delivers a high-quality, wild-oriented angling adventure, appealing to those who seek powerful anadromous fish in a beautiful, relatively untouched coastal environment.
Latest Fish Reports
Date | Report | Author |
4-3-2025 | The river closed to fishing at the end of March to protect migrating steelhead The river closed to fishing at the end... more » |
OR Department of Fish & Wildlife Staff |
3-26-2025 | High water has kept anglers off the river most days High water has kept anglers off the river... more » |
OR Department of Fish & Wildlife Staff |
3-19-2025 | High water has kept anglers off the river, but flows look to be dropping and maybe clearing High water has kept anglers off the river,... more » |
OR Department of Fish & Wildlife Staff |
3-12-2025 | Rain this week should make for some excellent fishing conditions Rain this week should make for some excellent... more » |
OR Department of Fish & Wildlife Staff |
2-26-2025 | Elk River Fishing Report Flows are finally dropping. March can be a... more » |
OR Department of Fish & Wildlife Staff |
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