Discover fly fishing on Washington’s Klickitat River. Learn about steelhead and salmon seasons, river access, boat launches, guides, and the best places to stay and eat near the Columbia River Gorge.
The Klickitat River, known locally as “the Klick”, is a 95-mile, glacier-fed river that offers anglers incredible opportunities for Summer Steelhead, Chinook Salmon, and Rainbow Trout. Even Mountain Whitefish have their place here, though they’re less pursued.
With plenty of bank access, multiple boat launches, and campsites scattered along its course, the Klick is one of the Columbia River Gorge’s most versatile fisheries. Whether you’re hiking in, floating by drift boat, or camping riverside, this river delivers. Along the way, keep an eye out for wildlife—turkey, deer, otters, and even elk in the upper stretches.
Fishing Seasons:
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Steelhead: Typically June through November (check yearly regulations).
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Salmon: Year-round below Lyle Falls; above the falls reopens Aug. 1, 2025.
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Whitefish: Open all year, with winter being the prime season.
Access:
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Road: Hwy 142 parallels 18 miles of the lower Klick, offering excellent bank fishing.
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Boat: Popular floats include Slide to Ice House and Ice House to Town. Longer floats like Stinson to Ice House are also a favorite.
Where to Stay & Eat:
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Stay: Klickitat River Inn, Hood River hotels, or luxe glamping at Under Canvas.
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Eat: Hood River has endless options—favorites include Solstice Wood Fire Pizza, Double Mountain Brewery, and Kickstand Coffee. In Klickitat, don’t miss Huntington’s Bar & Grill, famous for its steaks.
Guides:
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Travis Wallace: (509) 850-5125
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Sam Sickles: (541) 400-0855
For fishing licenses, visit Bridge Mart (Bingen), Lyle Merc, or Canyon Market (Klickitat).
Whether you’re after steelhead, chasing salmon, or just soaking up the Gorge scenery, the Klickitat offers one of the Northwest’s most rewarding river experiences.
