Klamath River - Upper - OR

The Upper Klamath River in Oregon, extending from Keno Dam, represents a highly significant and complex fishery. Transformed by damming, it is primarily a resident trout fishery, albeit retaining unique warmwater opportunities.

The best time to fish the Upper Klamath River for trout is typically from late spring through fall, after any high spring flows subside. Summer months often provide excellent dry fly opportunities. Early mornings and late afternoons are generally the most productive feeding times. Access to the Upper Klamath River varies. There are public access points, including some boat ramps and designated bank access areas, particularly near Keno and through public lands. However, much of the river flows through private property, so anglers must be mindful of boundaries. Drift boating or floating in small craft (rafts, pontoons) is a popular way to cover sections of the river, especially the wider, slower stretches. Wading can be challenging in many areas due to soft bottoms and deeper channels.

The Klamath is renowned rainbow trout, particularly the celebrated native redband trout migrating from Upper Klamath Lake. These wild trout attain impressive sizes, offering a highly challenging pursuit. While remnant anadromous populations exist, they are not the primary focus. Warmwater species such as yellow perch, brown bullhead catfish, and smallmouth bass also contribute to the diversity. Angling techniques are varied: fly fishing predominates for wild trout, utilizing nymphs and dry flies during prolific hatches; spin anglers employ small, natural-colored lures. Optimal trout fishing spans late spring through fall. Access varies, with public points interspersed among private lands, favoring drift boating or small craft. Regulations, meticulously managed by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW), are stringent: often mandating artificial lures/flies only, single barbless hooks, and highly restrictive retention for wild trout. Strict adherence to current ODFW directives is unequivocally paramount for legal compliance and resource conservation within this vital south-central Oregon ecosystem.

Regulations on the Upper Klamath River are set by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) and are often specific and complex, particularly to protect its valuable wild redband trout. Anglers must always consult the most current ODFW sport fishing regulations, as rules regarding bag limits (often catch-and-release or highly restrictive retention for wild trout), size restrictions, gear restrictions (e.g., artificial lures/flies only, single barbless hooks in some areas), and specific seasons are common. Given the river's ecological sensitivity and its connection to the overall Klamath Basin issues, adherence to regulations is paramount. The Upper Klamath River offers a unique, challenging, and profoundly rewarding angling experience for those seeking wild redband trout in a significant and picturesque south-central Oregon landscape.