One Hole Away

Recreating in the outdoors is often driven by the desire to “get away from it all” or find a little peace and relaxation from the rat race.  Given this motivation, few things are more frustrating than driving for hours to get to your out-of-the-way fishing spot only to find that your fishing spot is also several other people’s destination.

While there truly are some hidden gems in the great state of Oregon where seclusion and world class fishing can be found, the travel time to these locations makes frequent trips to these places impractical for most of us.  When you take the effort to reach a place like that, it’s also likely going to be for more than a morning or afternoon outing.

For those occasions when you want to get away for an afternoon or morning trip, you can employ a couple of simple tactics to find that secluded fishing location that can provide the much needed peace and relaxation that you seek.  And you can find some good fishing in these places without driving many extra miles.

Ask for Access

One of the simplest ways to find a less used stretch of water is to talk to a landowner about permission to access a stream.  A friendly handshake and introduction can be the key that opens a door to some quieter waters. 

Asking permission to cross someone’s property shouldn’t be an intimidating task.  The most important thing to remember is that it is their property and you should politely respect their right to decline access.  Don’t approach a land owner wearing your waders and carrying your bait caster.  And certainly never assume permission to access just because you see someone else using the property.  That being said, many property owners appreciate people who are up-front and friendly about crossing property.  They appreciate the opportunity to tell you the best places to cross a fence or access a river bank, and don’t be surprised to get a fishing tip or two!

Take a Walk

We’re all familiar with the popular fishing holes.  They’re usually within easy driving distance, have good access from a parking area, a spacious bank, plenty of fishable water and, if the fish are in, lots of fellow fishermen.

These locations are not my idea of secluded fishing, but experience has shown that some of the best spots are not far away.  An ability and willingness to walk a short distance up or down the river can provide that secluded fishing experience you’re after.

There are some things to be aware of when moving to such a location.  There may be little or no bank, so wading may be beneficial or required.  Depending on the size of your quarry, landing fish can be problematic.  Confidence in your ability to land a 12 pound steelhead on a short bank can be a determining factor.  There is also typically less casting room, so you may need to be proficient with a back cast or roll cast to make the conditions fishable.  I suggest practicing these kinds of casts when it’s not necessary to develop your skill level.  Not being able to do it when it is necessary could be a frustrating experience.  Finally, the water you find yourself fishing may be more challenging.  You need to be able to adapt to the speed and depth of water you find in front of you.

Getting “away” doesn’t have to mean driving great distances.  Learn your local waters better and take more advantage of the recreational opportunities nearby.  The effort doesn’t have to be great and the rewards can be fantastic.  Winter steelhead season, perhaps the best season in the state, is rapidly approaching, so no time like the present!