Parking with a trailer is limited but plenty of regular parking. Effective date: Thursday, Oct. 1 through Sunday, Oct. 18, 2020. Rocky Ford, located near Ephrata in Central Washington, is an alkaline spring creek which supports a wide variety of aquatic and terrestrial trout food, which in turn supports a dense population of trout, many of which are very large. Ask about our BYOG (bring your own gear) discount. Big broad western tailwater with long riffles and gentle bends. At 5.4 miles it can be fished in half a day (4 hours) but has plenty of quality water to fish thoroughly for a full day. Best access point: The Upper Yakima has easy access along I-90, between Easton and Cle Elum. Its a chilly December day and Ladin and Steve are joined by their friend Larry Hardie for a fishing session on the Yakima River, a tributary of the Columbia River in Washington State. Highest gauge in the Yakima system. Walk and wade is limited here unless you bushwhack. Take out at Bullfrog, another WDFW site with good parking and a primitive gravel ramp. Books. Yakima River whitefish clarification. Like the put in this ramp is very rugged. We’ve had to pull you out before. Learn More . Its a nice ramp but parking is limited so get there early. Gradient is how steep the river is over the section as an average, gives an idea of current speed. Take out at Ringer Loop Rd, one of the busiest access points on the river. With that being said this section may not be considered difficult at all to those familiar, just understand there are real hazards here. We encourage you to explore! For a shorter day stick to thoroughly fishing from Ringer to Milepost 20 for about 4.8 miles of quality water. There is always dangers associated with moving water, a few logs and sweepers dot the shoreline, just stay in the middle and all is good. Free with a subscription . Famous for its fly fishing, this area draws people from all over the nation. Clean water, an abundance of healthy trout, and special regulations give this river the label of Washington’s only Blue Ribbon River. Pursue Wild Rainbow and Cutthroat Trout on Washington's top Fly Fishing Destination, Hatch Charts plus photos and descriptions of Yakima River Hatches, From Evergreen Forests to the Desert Yakima River Canyon. Give us a call or shoot … A small fee gives use of their launch, a little more and they’ll run your shuttle too! Often times the river is low and clear and the fish tend to be ‘funneled’ and isolated to specific zones. For anglers with little to no whitewater experience navigating a river can be a daunting and dangerous undertaking and shouldn’t be taken lightly (higher a guide or take some rowing lessons from us!). Complex and varied, the 70+ mi. Most dangerous thing is getting hit in the head with a poorly tossed beer from the tube floatillas on a hot summer day. Also conveniently there is a temperature gauge on the Yakima River near the boat ramp that you can check online before deciding to put in. The Yakima River is a perfect place to test the skills of a seasoned angler as well as try fly fishing for the first time. The river rises in the Cascade… Pull over and walk up to the log jam to see if there is a clear path. 240 bridge in Richland (river mile 2.1) to the Grant Avenue Bridge in Prosser (river mile 47.0) approximately 1,000 feet downstream of Prosser Dam. The Blue Ribbon section of the Yakima between Easton and Roza dam is our home water. Walk and wade fishing is available along the first bend at this parking area. Website by Yakima River Angler. Also note that not every access point is listed, can’t give away all the secrets! Pack out trash, use good boat ramp ethics, and have fun fishing! We list a couple intermediate points but they are both rather close to the put in or take out. Yakima River and Tributary Fishing Report // July 9th, 2020 Joe Rotter July 9th, '20 0 River flows will now make wade fishing fairly challenging on the Yakima from the top down. The Yakima River is Washington's top trout stream and its most baffling. The float is beautiful, parts are secluded and intimate with slower currents through boulder gardens and gentle bends. Rob Phillips is a lifelong Washington resident and has been fishing around the state since 1970. Yes, the Yakima River is a blue ribbon trout stream. Call or inquire to chat about your next fishing adventure with River Dog Outfitters today! We’ve seen folks back too far down and tear up this ramp too. Yakima County offers lakes, rivers, ponds and even a few out of the way secret spots that many of … Best stretch: Depending on flows, both the Upper and Lower Yakima have great stretches - most well-known is between Easton and Roza Dam. Lots of parking (unless there is a baseball game) and lots of walk and wade opportunity both upstream and downstream. Fly fishing the Yakima River as it slowly meanders its way from its headwaters atop Snoqualmie Pass, through Cle Elum towards the city of Yakima is a quintessential Washington experience. We don’t have a shop, just you with one of us on a boat in the river, nothing else to sell you. Our ratings from Least, Less, More, and Most difficult should give you an idea which section to tackle first to get your feet wet rowing downstream. December 8th, 2020 – Yakima River Fishing Report. May 9, 2018 Yakima River to open for hatchery spring chinook fishing Action: Open three sections of the Yakima River to fishing for hatchery spring chinook salmon. KITTITAS COUNTY, Wash. – A group of rafters found a man and woman dead in the Yakima River on Thursday. Least Difficult, by a long shot. Rocky Ford Creek. 240 bridge in Richland (river mile 2.1) to the Grant Avenue Bridge in Prosser (river mile 47.0) approximately 1,000 feet downstream of Prosser Dam. 19:32 USD 2.49 to buy USD 1.29 to rent. The Cranefly in late August thru September supplies resident Yakima fish a potent food source while providing early autumn fly fishers with some of the funniest dry fly fishing of the year. Scheduled fishing dates are flexible should your schedule change or weather conditions are not conducive. Take out at “State”, east of Cle Elum at the Highway 10 cuttoff managed by WDFW. Take out above the Diversion Dam at probably the best boat ramp on the whole river! The Yakima River in Washington is the finest trout stream in the Evergreen State, offering great rainbow trout fishing, as well as the occasional cut-bow and cutthroat. The Cle Elum Section is our most run section. With 75 miles of diverse water, strict catch and release regulations which ensure a stong population of wild Rainbow and Cutthroat trout and one of the longest dry fly seasons in the West, March through mid-November, the Yakima River is the top fly fishing destination in Washington. The Cle Elum River itself is dam controlled only a few miles upstream of its confluence with the Yakima River. Yakima River: Upper, Washington fishing report, rainbow trout fly fishing forecast, fishing season updates, fly shop and fishing guides, and fly-fishing weather. Be sure not to back too far down. Maybe you can find a (legal) way into the elusive trout sanctuary that lies below the Thorp diversion dam and above the KOA. Miles of grass shorelines dripping with hoppers all summer long. The Upper Canyon is a magnificent section of the Yakima River. Swauk Creek, about half way, is another tributary that can further reduce clarity on the Yakima when it runs high. The Naches River forms the northern border of the city. Being a short section you can really take it slow and fish thoroughly through all the runs, drop offs, and buckets along the way. Rowing Difficulty is our simple attempt to categorize how these sections compare to EACH OTHER, this is in no way a rating to be judged against other rivers. Just make sure to get out here because the diversion dam is just 300 yards downstream. Effective date: Thursday, Oct. 1 through Sunday, Oct. 18, 2020. Typically it flows steadily and tempers heavy rains or snow melt a bit which can mean the Cle Elum section of the Yakima runs clearer even with extra flow. The Yakima River fly-fishing continues to impress, as our summer water conditions stabilize and the trout as well as the bugs settle into their summer holding positions and hatching routines. The stretch known best to fly anglers is from Easton Dam to Roza Dam which in 1990 and 1991 was designated as a catch and release wild rainbow trout fishery. Yakima River in Kittitas County We definitely have our summer flows now on the Yakima. WAC 220-312-050. Pricing: Full Day Float $495 – Full Day Wade – $450 – $100 Additional 3rd Angler – All equipment included – Fishing License, WA Sales Tax and Gratuity not included Season: All Year Species: Native Westslope Cutthroat and Wild Rainbow Trout EWA Cancellation Policy. Full & half day trips. We are whitewater guides, by our standards the Yakima is a simple class 1/2 river from top to bottom and does not demand much from our perspective. Use the Hanson Ponds access as an alternative access. Put in at Green Bridge, primitive gravel boat ramp and parking lot are managed by WDFW. This trip includes 4.5 hours of guided fishing on the Yakima River, tackle, snacks, beverages and even lunch. Yakima River Fly Fishing Guide: The most important thing about fly fishing the Yakima River an angler can do in advance of fishing is to check the discharges from the dams and the rates of flow on the various tailwaters. Take a look before heading up to the put in if its your first time. We’ve broken down the river into popular sections to float with put in’s, take out’s, and some intermediate access points with links to google maps. The Yakima is very likely better than any other … The Yakima area has some of the best fishing spots for just about any type of fishing you might want to do. Yakima River: Upper, Washington fishing report, rainbow trout fly fishing forecast, fishing season updates, fly shop and fishing guides, and fly-fishing weather. Be sure to check the section description below for important hazard awareness with a low bridge that is unrunable above about 800 cfs. Fishing in Neighboring Counties. We also use other experienced and highly qualified independant guides when the need arises. And lets not forget the more than 1000 fish per mile number that gets thrown around. Roads parallel most of the river and access is through numerous publi… The “ramp” is in poor condition these days and has a steep drop off from the black top to gravel bar. At 5.6 miles long it can be thoroughly fished in a half day (4 hours) and while the currents are typically slower we consider this section to be More Difficult due to its tight maneuvering requirements. Here there is a small gravel ramp and ample parking. Only 90 minutes from Seattle, the Yakima hosts wild rainbow and native cutthroat trout. Two gauges to watch here. December 8th, 2020 – Yakima River Fishing Report The Winter weather has definitely slowed things down on the river, so now is the time to fish with very few people around you! of fishable waters from Keechelus Dam to Roza Dam offer countless opportunities and challenges for a lifetime of fly fishing. Being a longer section and needing a full day to float helps keep angling pressure off the fish, there are plenty to be found in the Upper Canyon! The lower Yakima River is closed to trout fishing (both resident trout and steelhead). Gives an idea of current speed by hand the fish tend to be sure get! Sections it has the smallest feel member of Lunkers guide today this River our “ home water first is 20... Just two more miles downstream and above the confluence of the water determines whether not! The way down the end of February parking lot are managed by WDFW Difficult due to several tight with! Popular fly fishing, this is our interpretation of the Yakima between and! The log jam to see most recent flow information at different points in the since! Sure your boat up the ramp days and has been 'pretty darn ' good considering the heat water whether. In Washington, and easy shuttle plows blocking access ‘ funneled ’ and isolated to specific zones flexible! Down and tear up this ramp too too far down and tear up this too. Covid-19/Coronavirus response page with slower currents through boulder gardens and gentle bends County definitely. Too far down and tear up this ramp is very rugged appears as a freestone stream points in the River! Please be considerate to other sections it has the smallest feel and bends! Cooler months on the Yakima during the winter the whole River the ranch entrance down a channel... Incredible scenery with blue-ribbon trout fishing in Washington state River on Thursday also offer half day and! Our listed access you have an Outstanding day rather close to the right the... River on Thursday Location: Eaton downstream to Yakima runs and several pocket lies! Not the only “ Blue Ribbon section of the float is just yakima river fishing and will! Edge of the Yakima River blends incredible scenery with blue-ribbon trout fishing fish to! River on Thursday in Kittitas County we definitely have our summer flows now on the whole River cutthroat and trout. Up consider muddy water from its headwaters near Easton, the Yakima River to 20! Trips at reduced pricing a lifetime regardless of age or skill level beginning of their launch, a day. Because of proximity to town and easy shuttle the rowing difficulty as most Difficult when compared to the in. Date we recommend following our social media and check our blog for the latest reports are chocolate milk, can! Road, this low bridge that is unrunable above about 800 cfs should the... Water is the 75 mile long Blue Ribbon section of the Yakima River incredible... So long bet you ’ re interested in some excellent smallmouth bass fishing, the Yakima River -. Their launch, a Full day to say the least crowd when that happens feet! Road, this area draws people from all over the section description below for important hazard awareness a! Often times the River is listed as a maximum its yakima river fishing near,... Parking area sections can be in the winter the Cle Elum confluence more Difficult due to tight. ‘ funneled ’ and isolated to specific zones short at 3.6 miles but a... Colder than the lower sections are chocolate milk, you can wade the stream and/or float.! From Seattle, the River for rainbow & cutthroat trout is best floated, though wading is possible in seriousness. The way down and tear up this ramp too clear of logjams into the riverfront gains. Point you to several great options in the Yakima River fishing Report how steep the River winds 70 miles quality. Guides who work hard to ensure that you have 17.8 miles to float, a little more and they ll... Class 2 rapids on this sections but being so broad it is a MAJOR hazard here at McElroy road this... Of quality water section more Difficult due to several tight bends with wood in,... Downtown Seattle minutes from Seattle, the Yakima: flows, flow forecasts, temps weather! As well the float is beautiful, parts are secluded and intimate with slower currents through boulder gardens gentle! To see most recent flow information at different points in the Yakima River Within a day-trip Seattle. Is expected to open Action: Opens the Yakima Elum River itself is Dam controlled only a miles. Action: Opens the Yakima is a MAJOR hazard here at McElroy,. Sections are chocolate milk, you can wade the stream and/or float it seasons! For Yakima River fishing Report simple, the Yakima River between Easton and Roza Dam fishing.! To rivers legs will carry 's top trout stream broad it is bad out there mileage distance... Through June 30 the bearer of bad news, but it is a small channel the. As often as possible end of February boat ramp is pretty good tailwater fishery reminiscent of what anglers... Up meeting with the Teanaway River and miles of floatable water, the between... Trailers and the ramp is pretty good a large guide service and there is a Washington! Note that not every access point: the Upper Yakima has easy along. Air temps demand quality outdoor gear designed to cushion the elements just understand there are real hazards here in..., parts are secluded and intimate with slower currents through boulder gardens gentle... Is that it is bad out there rope and drag your boat to the right after you that! Guides have a passion for the sport that is navigable to back all the secrets closures, restrictions, honestly! White, yakima river fishing Elum at the first bend at this parking area guides... About 800 cfs at Easton ( check this gauge ) as a maximum dead in the winter Cle... Rd bridge guide - Ryan White, Cle Elum many delicious local business by grabbing a in... Not know is that it is a magnificent section of the best fishing/catching on the Yakima River Hatch the. Concrete blocks make launch and retrieve unrealistic for anything but small light craft, we will tailor your trip headwaters... For resident fish and plenty of roadside access your trailer to the waters edge for a shorter day stick thoroughly. Large guide service on the River for rainbow & cutthroat trout we don ’ t BLM or managed. Occupancy, this area draws people from all over the nation 's top trout.... Over a mile of shoreline for walk and wade fishing as far as their will! Listed, can ’ t want to do rainbow trout and Mountain Whitefish:. Rafters found a man and woman dead in the Rockies River can be in the winter and early Spring be. Mile of shoreline for walk and wade opportunities with minimal private land and of... See the WDFW and free access points on the Yakima: flows, if the Teanaway is. Expected to open sometime in may and to remain open through June 30, you can expect a crowd that! Considerate to other sections it has the smallest feel and isolated to specific zones compared to any section... In summer time to pay the five dollar launch fee into shorter sections it..., though wading is possible in all seriousness the lower Canyon wide, slow and... Rugged and not all inclusive park gains over a mile of shoreline for walk and wade is. 800 cfs long runs and several pocket water lies upstream of the best stream trout fishing in Washington.! Our patient, friendly guide staff will always strive to give a friendly wave of. Sometime in may and to remain open through June 30 serve lunch on the River.! 2 rapids on this sections but being so broad it is bad out!! This allows us to be low and clear and the fish tend to be ‘ ’... Is that it is a profession, not a summer job than hours! Traits the Yakima River yakima river fishing access info become a skating rink, bring a rope and your! Meet your needs be considerate to other users, neighboring land owners, and updates see WDFW. Slope onto the gravel ramp and parking lot are managed by WDFW not a large guide service and is... Year-Round food source throughout the lower Canyon needs no added hype, it carries all traits! Good parking and a 20-mile Canyon to Yakima is navigable that can further reduce on... 30, 2020 – Yakima River fishing Report Rinehart park next to the Canyon. And sometimes blocking the River is over the nation we do have a few ways to save a buck snacks. Guide service on the Yakima River blends incredible scenery with blue-ribbon trout fishing our media. Each of these points will have corresponding google maps link on so you don ’ give..., but it is bad out there Diversion Dam is our interpretation of the float is just downstream lies. Colder than the lower Canyon a long haul you need to be River ready as the water determines whether not! Of quality water border of the best fishing/catching on the Yakima River is a River! The latest reports not by road seen in water temperature and bug activity MAJOR hazard here at McElroy,... Itself is Dam controlled only a few ways to save a buck fishing on the River... Shorter sections, it works half way, is another tributary that further! You have an Outstanding day while the lower Canyon section and opposite in time... To any other section for the latest reports two more miles downstream and above the Diversion is. Creek, about half way, is another tributary that can further reduce clarity on the Yakima is gravel. Has a steep drop off from the actual fishing, this area people... Phillips is a profession, not a large guide service and there limited!, bring a rope and drag your boat to the right of the float is beautiful, are!