World-Class Umpqua River Smallmouth Bass Trips

Reel in Bass on Oregon's Umpqua River

Get ready for non-stop action on the Umpqua River System with our full-day smallmouth bass fishing trip. From June 1st to August 15th, we'll have you hooking into some of Oregon's feistiest fish. Whether you're a seasoned angler or bringing the whole family along, this trip delivers big time. We're talking the potential for triple-digit catches in a single outing. So grab your hat and sunscreen, and let's hit the water for a day you won't forget.

What to Expect on the Water

Our day starts early, meeting up at first light when the bass are most active. We'll cruise the Umpqua's picturesque waterways, hitting prime spots that only locals know. You'll be armed with top-notch gear and our expert knowledge to maximize your chances. Expect a mix of casting to shorelines, working deep pools, and drifting through riffles. The action can be fast and furious, with smallies smashing topwater lures one minute and inhaling soft plastics the next. We keep things fun and laid-back, perfect for newcomers, but we've got the skills to put you on trophy bass if that's your goal.

Tactics That Hook 'Em

We'll school you in proven techniques that get Umpqua smallmouth fired up. You might start off working a Whopper Plopper across the surface, creating that irresistible "plop-plop" that drives bass crazy. When the sun gets high, we'll switch to finesse tactics, drop-shotting small plastics into deeper haunts where the big ones lurk. Crankbaits, jigs, and good old-fashioned worms round out our arsenal. The river's diverse structure – from rocky shorelines to submerged timber – means we're always adapting our approach. By day's end, you'll have a whole new bag of tricks for fooling these bronze backs.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

"My husband and I had a wonderful day on the river with Kyle. He is a very skilled guide, does his research to check river conditions so we aren't driving all over the country. I've done that with other guides. He knows the river and the hidey holes where the fish hang out. We caught beautiful fish and had great conversations. He is our forever guide!!! He should be yours too! Thanks Kyle for a great trip!" - Misty

Species You'll Want to Hook

Smallmouth Bass are the stars of the show on the Umpqua, and for good reason. These bruisers punch well above their weight, offering explosive strikes and acrobatic fights that'll have you grinning from ear to ear. They average 1-3 pounds here, but don't be surprised if you tangle with a 4 or 5-pounder. Smallies love warm water and rocky habitat, making the Umpqua their perfect home. They're opportunistic feeders, gulping down everything from crayfish to small baitfish. This varied diet is what makes them so fun to catch – they'll hit just about any lure in your box if presented right.

The best part? Smallmouth are schooling fish, so when you find one, you've often found a whole bunch. This is what leads to those insane days where you can rack up 100+ fish. They're most active in the warmer months, which is why we focus on them from June through mid-August. As the water heats up, the fishing only gets better. Early mornings and late evenings tend to see the most topwater action, while midday might require slower, deeper presentations.

While smallmouth are our main target, don't be surprised if you hook into some other Umpqua residents. The river also holds largemouth bass, especially in backwater areas and sloughs. These green cousins of the smallie can grow bigger, with 6+ pounders not unheard of. You might also encounter some hard-fighting rainbow trout, especially in the cooler, upper sections of the river system.

Time to Book Your Spot

Look, the Umpqua's smallmouth fishing is no secret. Anglers from all over flock here during peak season to get in on the action. But with our local know-how and years of experience, we'll put you on fish that others miss. Whether you're after numbers or that personal best, we've got you covered. Remember, we're limited to just two guests per trip, so you'll get plenty of one-on-one instruction and prime casting locations.

Don't let another summer slip by without experiencing this world-class bass fishery. Give us a call or shoot a text to 541-951-3980 and let's get your adventure locked in. Just keep in mind that deposits are non-refundable – but trust us, once you're out here battling bass after bass, you won't be thinking about anything else. See you on the river!