Orvis-Endorsed Fly-Fishing Outfitter in Oregon

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Orvis-Endorsed Fly-Fishing Outfitter in Oregon

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Humble Heron Fly Fishing

Fly-Fishing Guide Service in Oregon


Phone icon541-604-0582 Email iconinfo@humbleheronflyfishing.com Link iconhumbleheronflyfishing
Grants Pass, Oregon

Item #23JX1900

The Story

Go fly fishing in Oregon with the experts at Orvis-endorsed Humble Heron Fly Fishing guide service. The Rogue River is an icon. Fabled as a prolific fishery, the Rogue hosts several runs of anadromous fish that call her cool waters home. New fish enter the Rogue virtually every month.

Designated Wild & Scenic in 1968, this river does not disappoint. Expansive views and deep cut canyons reveal the most diverse flora and fauna in the state. It is not uncommon to see deer, otters, beavers, eagles, osprey, mink, and bears in one experience. Her banks showcase house- sized boulders with a variety of oak trees, madrone, manzanita, and Douglas fir that show her time and wisdom. This hypnotic water is a "playground" for beginners and experienced anglers alike. Considered the finest swing water in Oregon, the variety of runs present learning opportunities around every bend.

James and Kait Sampsel specialize in two-hand rod instruction, swinging flies for the Rogue's famous "grabby" steelhead.

Orvis-endorsed guide service Humble Heron Fly Fishing is a family-owned business in Grant Pass, Oregon that started with the belief that knowledge and passion for the river is a must. Kait and James began fishing as youngsters. As time went on, they spent years running rivers throughout the west, honing their boating skills and wilderness ethics. A combined 27 years of experience as professional river runners and 52 years of fishing knowledge make this pair a standout on the river. Their guests leave the river more aware, knowledgeable about their craft, and somehow better. Their constant reminder to help guests stay connected to the source and themselves gives unique insight to the "Zen", or the art of letting steelhead choose you. Their operation is set in what many consider "Heaven on Earth", the Rogue River.

It has steelhead in a variety of sizes, which ensures wild runs of fish will continue under the Rogue's vastly changing flows between the summer and winter months. The Rogue is known for her special runs of "half pounders", a juvenile steelhead ranging from 16-20 inches in length, considered the rarest fish in the world. They are mixed with the West's healthiest runs of adult steelhead in the 3-8 lb. range with double-digit fish that are not uncommon. The record steelhead for this fishery is over 24 lbs.

Rogue steelhead can be "grabby" critters. Whether fishing traditional spey flies, larger intruder style flies, or presenting surface "skating" or "waking" flies, the grab of a Rogue fish can leave your hands trembling.

James and Kait are known for their patient instructional style. Their calm demeanor is a refreshing contrast to an on-water high school principal! They know the importance of letting go and being present. Steelhead are vibrational creatures that pick up one's energy and they seem to understand this. These folks take pride in connecting with their guests, ensuring your time spent on the river is magical. Great guides in a truly awesome place make for unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime. Fish like a heron and learn to get caught! You might never want to leave this ideal river.

Orvis is pleased to offer our travel customers access to two valuable services: Global Rescue travel membership and IMG Signature Travel Insurance℠.

Learn More

What is Provided:

Meals provided: Onshore lunch with coffee/tea, water, and soup. You may also bring any other beverages you wish.

Tackle provided: All flies, rods, reels, leaders, and tippet. Of course, use of your personal gear is welcomed.


What to Bring:

  • Any snacks or beverages you wish. Reusable water bottles will be provided. We will have a refill jug. We are an earth-conscience company.
  • A small dry bag if you wish to keep items dry. If not your guide will have one for you.
  • We bring toilet paper in case of an emergency, but feel free to bring some if you wish.
  • Sunscreen and/or a hat to block the sun.
  • Warm hat and gloves.

Gear Recommendations:

  • Waders and wading boots.
  • Wading staff is recommended but not required. We have staffs for use if desired.
  • Always be prepared for rain—a rain jacket often is our best tool.
  • Dressing in layers can be very helpful as temperatures can fluctuate throughout the day. We recommend synthetics as they wick moisture.
  • Fly rods, flies, and leaders if you wish to fish your own gear.
  • Two-hand rods in the 12-14 ft. range, 5wt-8wt. Single-hand rods in the 9-11 ft., 5wt-8wt.
  • Floating lines and sinking lines, Sandi and Skagit lines.
  • Sinking leaders, traditional tapered leaders, and floating leaders, 9 ft.-12 ft..

Species:

Summer-run steelhead, winter-run steelhead, Coho, fall Chinook, rainbow trout, sea-run cutthroat


Season:

Summer-run steelhead: June-December
Winter-run steelhead: December-April
Fall Chinook salmon: August-September
Coastal cutthroat: Any month
Coho salmon: October-November
Rainbow trout: May-July


Region/Terrain:

The Rogue river is accessible from the banks but has limited access. The most effective fishing is done with boat transportation. There are varied types of water and terrain that all levels of anglers can enjoy. Anywhere from easily stepped down gravel runs to tricky ledges and boulder gardens. The river is a small and intimate to very large, wide, high flow, depending on what section of river you fish. This makes the river conducive to both single-hand and two-hand rods.


Typical Weather:

The weather in Oregon is often unpredictable but fairly mild and stable. Southern Oregon sits in a "banana belt" of temperate weather. In the heart of fall fishing, one can find themselves fishing in a t-shirt. In winter months, expect rain and at times snowfall.

Rates range from: $350-$2300

Additional Activities:

Humble Heron offers additional activities. James is an accomplished artist and offers trips that include instruction in oil and acrylic painting. There is also the option to have your trip captured in paint as James will follow the other guide and paint your experience fishing on the Rogue. Kid-oriented trips are also offered and are a great way to get the whole family involved and out in nature! Please inquire about these specialty trips.


Other:

Humble Heron is equal opportunity and offers services for folks with limited mobility. We are thrilled to get just about anyone out on the water to see this beautiful river.

Dogs are welcomed as long as we aren’t chasing them down every stop.

Parts of the Rogue are set in true wilderness and often cell phone reception is not possible. Sit back, you’re on river time!

Airport shuttles are possible. Check Medford International Airport for available services. We are happy to help you with this.

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