Fishing Seasons

Seasonal Guided Fishing Trips

Fishing in Southern Oregon is a true year-round opportunity, with different rivers, species, and techniques coming into play as the seasons change. Run timing, water conditions, and fish behavior all shift throughout the year, which is why choosing the right season—and the right guide—matters.

Jon Geyer’s Guide Service targets salmon, steelhead, and trout based on when and where fishing is at its best. Trips are planned around peak runs, river conditions, and proven techniques for each season, giving anglers the best chance at success while enjoying the changing scenery of Southern Oregon’s rivers and lakes.

Adult angler and child smiling while holding a steelhead on a Southern Oregon river, with a rocky shoreline and trees in the background.

Spring Fishing (February – June)

Spring marks the start of one of the most anticipated seasons of the year as Chinook salmon begin entering Southern Oregon rivers. As water temperatures rise and river conditions improve, fishing ramps up quickly.

What You Can Fish For:

  • Spring Chinook (King Salmon)
  • Resident Trout (select waters)

What to Expect:

  • Prime salmon fishing from April through June
  • Peak spring Chinook action mid-May through June
  • Powerful, hard-fighting fish known for excellent table fare
  • Guided trips focused on timing fresh pushes of fish
Smiling angler holding a large salmon on a calm Southern Oregon river, with fall-colored trees reflected in the water behind her.

Summer Fishing (July)

Summer fishing shifts upriver and focuses on specific stretches where fish continue to hold and move. Conditions are often more stable, and techniques adjust for warmer water and lower flows.

What You Can Fish For:

  • Late Spring Chinook (Upper Rogue)
  • Early Fall Chinook (Lower Rogue / Gold Beach)
  • Trout (rivers and lakes)

What to Expect:

  • Upper Rogue Chinook fishing around Shady Cove
  • Early fall salmon beginning to stage in the bay at Gold Beach
  • Mix of river and potential lake trips depending on conditions
  • Scenic fishing with longer daylight hours
Two anglers smiling and holding a large rainbow trout on a Southern Oregon river, with flowing water and a wooded riverbank in the background.

Fall Fishing (August – September)

Fall is known for big fish and consistent action as a strong native run of fall Chinook pushes through the Rogue River system. This is one of the most popular times to fish due to fish size and aggressive bites.

What You Can Fish For:

  • Fall Chinook (King Salmon)
  • Early Fall Steelhead (select waters)

What to Expect:

  • Peak fall Chinook fishing in August and September
  • Targeting salmon in Gold Beach, Grants Pass, and Gold Hill
  • Techniques include back-bouncing eggs, back-trolling plugs, trolling anchovies, and side-drifting
  • Excellent opportunity for trophy-sized salmon

Winter Fishing (October – January)

Winter fishing offers a quieter experience with fewer crowds and the chance to target steelhead in prime conditions. Trips are planned around river levels and weather windows.

What You Can Fish For:

  • Winter Steelhead
  • Trout (select rivers and lakes)

What to Expect:

  • Focus on steelhead as salmon seasons wind down
  • Cooler temperatures and classic winter river conditions
  • Patient, methodical fishing with experienced guidance
  • Ideal for anglers looking for a more relaxed, technical trip

Fishing the Right Season for the Right Fish

Each season offers something different, and the best trips come from matching timing, location, and technique. Jon Geyer’s Guide Service adjusts trips throughout the year to stay on the most productive water, giving anglers a well-planned, honest fishing experience—whether you’re chasing your first fish or your next personal best.