Join us for 6 days of Steelhead fishing on the Salmon River in Idaho
Steelhead Fishing on the Main Salmon through the ‘River of No Return Wilderness, an unparalleled opportunity to float through the heart of Idaho while fishing for a world-class ocean run trout. Join us on a 6 day 5 night 60-80 mile adventure, navigating Class I-IV whitewater, visiting historical sights, and revelling in the wild-beauty of the canyon.
Trip highlights
- World-class ocean run trout
- Class I-IV whitewater
- Historical sights
- Wild-beauty of the canyon
- Wild & hatchery Steelhead
Photos
Quick Facts
- Begins: Missoula, Montana
- Ends: Missoula, Montana
- Season: Mid to late October and early November
- Distance: 60-80 miles
- Rapids: Class I-IV
- Boat Type: Streamtech Rafts
- Minimum Age: 10
What’s Included
Includes guides, food, shuttle to the river from Missoula, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, dry bags, day bags, and tents.
Not Included
- Hotel stay pre and post trip in Missoula
- River Lodge Rates: $150.00 / night
- Flights, jet boat, and shuttle fees out of river corridor back to Missoula. Prices to be determined based on available options at time of reservation. ~$600.00 / person
What to expect?
Day-by-day itinerary
- Day Before Launch: Orientation at The Doubletree Hotel in Missoula, Montana.
- Day 1: Depart from the Doubletree at 7:30 am. Shuttle to the river.
- Day 2: Full day of fishing. Options for side hikes & hot springs.
- Day 3: Full day of fishing.
- Day 4: Full day of fishing.
- Day 5: Full day of fishing.
- Day 6: Half day of fishing. Drive back to Missoula.
- Day 7: Travel home.
Typical Day
A typical day on the Salmon River kicks off around 10AM after breakfast and packing. Each day brings plenty of time for fishing and fun with options for hikes and side trips to learn about local history. We arrive at camp around 5PM and have dinner around 7:30.
Camping on the river
We will provide you with tents, sleeping bags and a large, comfortable sleeping pad. A portable toilet affectionately called ‘the groover’ is provided at camp. Our camping equipment is all up to date and our style of river camping is considered first-rate. SOAR Northwest’s top priority is to keep you safe as well as comfortable.
This includes healthy & hearty meals, campfires & chairs, personal assistance when needed, and guidance in dealing with the elements and weather.
Physical Requirements
You don’t need prior whitewater experience, but you do need an adventurous spirit and reasonable fitness. Minimum age is 10. You should be in good physical condition and able to cope with normal camping routines. Meal preparation and cleanup is done by the guides. Our guides are trained in first aid and are eager to help you in any way with an emphasis on adapting to and enjoying your surroundings.
You are required to carry your personal gear short distances and learn to erect a simple tent and sleep on a comfortable pad in the tent. A portable toilet is provided. Our camping equipment is the best and our camping style is considered by most to be deluxe SOAR Northwest’s first priority is to keep you safe, and as comfortable as weather and your wilderness surroundings will permit.
Get Ready!
Packing List: What’s Provided
- tent
- a large dry bag
- 20 degree sleeping bag
- comfortable sleeping pad
- splash top & pants to wear while on the water
- wetsuits (if needed)
- small dry bag
Pre-Trip Travel Information
Our Salmon River trips begin and end in Missoula, Montana at the Doubletree Hotel on the Clark Fork River. SOAR Northwest will block out rooms for the nights pre and post trip at a discounted rate. You will have a window of time to reserve the necessary rooms. This cost is not included in the trip cost. The Doubletree Hotel offers free shuttle service to and from the Missoula airport. The hotel location offers a river-view restaurant, a walking path along the river into Downtown Missoula, and easy access to a grocery store, restaurants and even hiking to the regionally famous ‘M’. Air Service to Missoula is serviced by Alaska, Allegiant, Delta, Frontier, & United.
Trip Orientation takes place at The Doubletree Hotel the night before the launch date at 6:00 pm. During orientation you trip leader will answer questions, complete all necessary paperwork, and issue you your personal gear for the trip.
Payment & Cancellation
We only guarantee reservations upon receipt of deposit (for each seat). We accept ACH payments, personal checks & credit cards (3% surcharge). Deposits are non-refundable. Please contact us for more info.
Dates & Rates
Sample Trip Itinerary
Additional Information
Fishing Boats
Our customized Streamtech Rafts offer the safety of a raft and the performance of a drift boat. Each boat will accommodate 2 fisherman and a guide while the gear boats take all of the bulky equipment and set up camp. A full trip accommodates 8 guests.
Fishing Gear
The river can be fished with spinning gear or fly fishing gear from the boats and we’ll make stops to accommodate swinging streamers and or spey casting from shore. Timing is everything with the Steelhead. Typically, mid to late October and early November provides a good window to tap into the run. Both wild steelhead and hatchery steelhead are present in this stretch of water. All wild fish must be released immediately while the hatchery fish (w/ a clipped adipose fin) can be harvested.
Guides
Our guides are skilled boatmen and dedicated fishermen. They know where the fish will hold and how to best entice them. Steelhead are notoriously elusive which adds to the lore and lure of catching one of these powerful fish. As important, our guides are mature, caring and respectful individuals looking to share an amazing place and provide you with an experience of a lifetime.
Camping
Our trips are tailored to your interests. Do you enjoy camping under the stars and sitting by a campfire at night? Our standard itinerary provides for camping 4-5 nights along the river and one night at the Ram house at Mackay bar lodge (based on availability). While camping, if the weather necessitates, we will set up a tarp / tent for cooking and socializing. For sleeping we provide a roomy 4 person tent to accommodate 2. Want to enjoy more of the Historical River Lodges? Plan early enough and SOAR NW will work to accommodate your wishes. These lodges can book up early.