Rainbow Trout Fishing Trip | 8HR Private Trip
Private Trip
River Fishing
8hour steelhead fishing adventure across 9 coastal streamsSeasonal DecemberMarch trips with expert location selectionPrivate guided experience for maximum fishing success
There's nothing quite like feeling that first tug on your line when a steelhead rainbow trout takes your bait. I've been guiding these coastal streams for years, and let me tell you – this 8-hour winter fishing adventure is hands down one of the most rewarding ways to spend a day on the water. From December 20th through March 31st, when these chrome-bright fish are making their spawning runs, we'll hit the best spots across 9 different coastal streams. At $600 for up to two anglers, you're getting access to prime steelhead territory with a guide who knows exactly where to find them.
We kick off at 8 AM sharp, and trust me, the early start is worth it. Winter steelhead are most active in the morning hours, and we want to be on the water when they're feeding. I'll pick you up with all the gear you need – quality rods, reels, and a tackle box full of proven lures and baits. The beauty of this trip is that I'm constantly reading the conditions. River levels, weather patterns, water temperature – all these factors determine which of my 9 go-to streams we'll fish that day. Some days we might start on a smaller tributary where the fish are stacked up, other days we'll hit the main stem where the bigger chrome-bright steelhead are pushing through. You're not just getting a fishing trip, you're getting decades of local knowledge about when and where these fish move through our coastal systems.
Steelhead fishing isn't about sitting back and waiting – it's active, engaging fishing that keeps you on your toes. We'll primarily use drift fishing techniques, working our baits through the deeper pools and runs where these fish like to hold. I'll teach you how to read the water, spot the likely holding spots, and feel the difference between your sinker bouncing bottom and a fish mouthing your bait. We'll run everything from cured salmon roe and sand shrimp to spinners and spoons, depending on water conditions and fish behavior. The gear is medium-heavy action rods paired with quality reels spooled with 12-15 pound test – strong enough to handle these powerful fish but sensitive enough to detect subtle strikes. Each stream has its own personality, and part of what makes this trip special is learning how to adapt your approach as we move between different water types throughout the day.
Rainbow trout in these coastal streams aren't your typical pond trout – these are sea-run steelhead, and they're absolute fighters. These fish spend most of their adult lives in the ocean, feeding on baitfish and growing strong before returning to freshwater to spawn. A typical steelhead on these streams runs anywhere from 6 to 15 pounds, with some real bruisers pushing 20 pounds or more. December through March is prime time because that's when they're making their spawning runs, moving from the ocean into the rivers in waves. What makes them so special to catch is their incredible strength and acrobatic ability – when you hook one, you're in for a battle. They'll jump, run, and do everything they can to throw that hook. The chrome-bright ones fresh from the ocean are the most prized – they're at their peak condition, silver-sided and incredibly powerful. These fish are also incredibly smart and spooky, which makes landing one such a rewarding challenge. They can sense the slightest vibration through the water, so we'll need to be stealthy in our approach and precise with our presentations.
Winter steelhead season is short but sweet, and the best fishing windows fill up fast. With free cancellation up to 3 days in advance, you've got the flexibility to watch the weather and river conditions without losing your deposit. This isn't just another guided fishing trip – it's your chance to learn from someone who's spent years perfecting the art of coastal steelhead fishing. Whether you're a seasoned angler looking to dial in your winter techniques or someone new to steelhead fishing who wants to learn from a pro, this 8-hour adventure delivers. We'll cover multiple streams, try different techniques, and put you on fish in some of the most productive steelhead water on the coast. The season runs through March 31st, so don't wait too long to secure your dates. These winter steelhead don't stick around forever, and neither do the prime fishing conditions. Book your spot now and get ready to experience why steelhead fishing becomes an obsession for so many anglers.
This 2023 Headwaters Marine 14-foot drift boat is your floating fishing platform for chasing rainbow trout through coastal streams. With its whisper-quiet 1HP Minn Kota motor, you'll glide into prime fishing spots without spooking the fish. The boat comfortably handles up to 3 anglers, giving you plenty of room to work your lines and land those beautiful rainbows. The onboard icebox keeps your catch fresh and your drinks cold during those long 8-hour days on the water. Built specifically for drift fishing, this boat lets you cover serious water while maintaining perfect positioning in those productive runs and pools where trout love to feed.
Port Angeles