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Umpqua River fishing Lodge and fly fishing for Smallmouth Bass, Shad and Steelhead.
Umpqua River Fishing Lodge and Fly Fishing

We are an all inclusive guest ranch that offers a place for everyone to enjoy the outdoors. From scenic float trips down the Umpqua River to horseback rides on our 2500 acre property to local wine tours, there is always something to do. You will love the home style meals that wait for you when you come off the river after catching more fish than you ever thought possible. Our professional fishing guides and friendly staff will give your an unforgettable experience on the Umpqua.
We are the perfect venue for a variety of events from corporate retreats to weekend getaways. With 20 private cabins and a full service log lodge we can accommodate groups as large as 300. Our dining room and adjoining conference room create a relaxing and productive environment for any group.
Our packages are fully customizable and tailored for your group or event. We work with you every step of the way.
Umpqua River Fishing
Fishing at the Big K is simply amazing. Nearly 20 years ago, "Big Al" Kesterson committed the business, the guide service and the family to a "Catch and Release" policy, which has helped build one of the best smallmouth bass locations not only in Oregon but the entire West. This fishery, known by many as "The Loop", also boasts runs of Chinook, Silvers and American Shad. Fly-fishing for Smallmouth Bass is distinctly effective and active on this ten mile section of Oregon's Umpqua at the Big K Ranch.
Umpqua River Fly Fishing
Smallmouth Bass – 5-7 wt. fly rods. We use mostly nymphs and some top water poppers throughout the season. A floating line with a 9′ 4x to 3x or longer works well. Most of the nymph fishing is sight fishing. You will literally spot and target fish then watch them inhale your fly. These fish are extremely hard fighting fresh water fish. Flies and technique change during the season so if you want more specific information for a specific time of year you can call or email and we will get you information directly from one of our guides.
Shad – 6-8 wt. fly rods. A 20′ to 25′ shooting head with 300 to 400 grain striking line with a shooting line backing is the most effective. A full sinking line works but is not as effective. We use a 7′ to 9′ 4x to 3x leader. When the shad are in, fly fishing is very effective. These fish average 2 ½ lbs and many in the 3 to 5 lbs range. These fish are some of the hardest fighting fish you will see with many aerial displays. We use a variety of shad flys. Call for more specifics and we can get you directly in contact with a guide.
Steelhead – 7-8 wt. fly rods. Fly fishing can be very effective for steelhead from July through September. We fish both above and below the fly water zone on the North Umpqua. We strictly fish the North Umpqua above Roseburg for summer steelhead. Since techniques change drastically below fly water and above fly water zone it is best to call for information.

Umpqua River Smallmouth Bass Fishing
With the arrowy rush and vigor of a trout, the untiring strength and bold leap of a salmon, and the fighting tactics all his own, the smallmouth bass is inch for inch and pound for pound one of the hardest fighting fish that swims. The Big K offers secluded drifts on the beautiful Umpqua River where you are sure to hook into one of these smallies. The ranch offers a variety of ways to catch smallmouth bass including spinning and fly fishing gear on a full day or half day fishing trip. Come and see why the famous "Umpqua River Loop" at the Big K is recognized as one of the premier smallmouth spots in the country.
Season: April-End of September
Peak Time: End of June-End of August
Umpqua River Shad Fishing
Shad are the most under-fished game fish in the Umpqua River. When you hook a 5 lb shad, the ensuing battle will rival that of a 12 lb steelhead. Not only is the American shad a fine fighting fish, but the roe is considered a rare delicacy and when smoked or canned the meat is superb.
Season: April-June
Peak Time: Early May-Mid June
Average Size: 2-3lbs.
Winter - Umpqua River Steelhead Fishing
These fish are one of the most sought after in the Northwest. They are extremely hard fighting and very acrobatic. Winter Umpqua River Steelhead are plentiful during the peak time. Their migration up the river can make the number of fish caught, vary from day to day.
Season: December-April
Peak Time: January-March
Average Size: 8-10lbs. Some over 20lbs!
Summer - Umpqua River Steelhead Fishing
Steelhead are an extremely hard fighting fish. They will do anything to get away.
They take long runs, jump frequently, and try to break your line on rocks or brush that may be in the river. Umpqua River Steelhead migrate up the river to spawn, so numbers of fish are much more unpredictable. We usually boat a couple of them a day. We use 8' rods, 8-12lb test, side drifting, plugs, etc. We also fly fish for these great fish with 7-8 wt. rods.
Peak Time: End of August-October
Season: June-October
Average Size: 8-10lbs. Some over 20lbs!
Umpqua River Fishing Lodge

Boasting twenty-five hundred acres, ten miles of river frontage, a 12,000 sq. ft. log lodge and twenty private cabins, the Big K has what you are looking for.
With our full service lodge and cabins we can accommodate groups of all sizes from the couple on a romantic getaway to the corporate retreat or company picnic. You will feel right at home.
Each private cabin is air-conditioned with its own bathroom. We offer twin, queen, or king-sized beds and plenty of room for your outdoor gear.
Hunting Rio Grande Wild Turkeys- Some of the best wild turkey hunting on the West Coast can be found at the Big K.
Questions? Click below to for contact and availability
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