Fishing Charters in Oregon
Browse fishing charters in Oregon that can help you catch smelt.
On The Fly Guide Service
Chiloquin, Oregon
Contact On The Fly Guide Service For Williamson River Fly Fishing and Klamath Basin Duck and Goose Hunting information.
Fish Food Guide Service
Astoria, Oregon
Fishing Charter in Astoria! Join Captain Jason Erickson and explore our rates for Fish Food Guide Services. Reserve your adventure today!
Big Bite Fishin Charters
Garibaldi, Oregon
Oregon + Washington Fishing Charter. Guided deep-sea fishing. Fish for halibut, salmon, albacore tuna, rockfish, crab and sturgeon.
Redband Becoming Guide Service
Klamath Falls, Oregon
Fly fishing guided trips on the Klamath Lake, Williamson River, Wood River and the Rogue River.
Bertsguideservice
Vida, Oregon
Welcome Float down the world famous McKenzie river and fish from an original wooden 1946 McKenzie Drift Boat.
Blue Collar Adventures
Phoenix, Oregon
R L Fishing Guide Services
Grants Pass, Oregon
RL Guide Service offers Full Service guided fishing trips for Salmon, Steelhead, Trout and Bass throughout Southern Oregon's lakes and rivers.
Trophy Troutfitters
Klamath Falls, Oregon
Guided Oregon fly fishing adventures on Wood River, Williamson River & Klamath Lakes | Native Brown and Klamath Redband Trout angling experts
Bob Toman Guide Service
The Dalles, Oregon
Brock Johnsons Guide Service
Hammond, Oregon
Don't miss out on the chance to catch your dream fish! Book your Astoria fishing adventure now for a day filled with excitement and fun.
Legendary Outfitters
Bend, Oregon
Legendary Outfitters provides world-class guided fly fishing trips in Oregon, specializing in day trips, multi-day floats, and lake excursions. Whether you’re chasing trophy trout, steelhead, or smallmouth bass, our experienced guides ensure an unforgettable adventure. With expert instruction, premium gear, and stunning locations, we create legendary fishing experiences.
Mckenzie Tackle Guide Service
Springfield, Oregon
Best Time to Catch Smelt
Peak season: May. Also good: April, June, November. Right now in February, activity is poor.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Smelt
While Bend, Oregon, is renowned for its trout and steelhead fishing, targeting smelt requires a bit more creative thinking. The Deschutes River itself isn't a smelt habitat, but some of the Cascade Lakes to the west *might* hold landlocked populations. These lakes, like Hosmer or Cultus, are known for their kokanee and other salmonids, and smelt may have been introduced at some point as a forage fish. Check with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) for stocking records and any reports of smelt presence. If targeting smelt, focus on deeper water during the day, switching to shallower areas at night when they may move in to feed. Small jigs or ice fishing lures (if ice fishing is possible) are your best bet. Be sure to check ODFW regulations, as specific rules may apply to smelt fishing, even in landlocked lakes. This is definitely an unconventional fishing adventure in the Bend area, so be prepared to explore and potentially come up empty-handed.
How to Catch Smelt
Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for Smelt in Bend.
Smelt Fishing Regulations in Oregon
License Required
Angling License
Regulations for eulachon (Columbia River smelt) are highly variable and depend on annual run size. Check the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife website for current regulations before fishing.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the Oregon state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in Oregon
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of license is needed for smelt fishing near Bend?
You will need an Oregon Angling License to fish for smelt. Ensure your license is current and valid before heading out.
Where are some good places to find smelt around Bend?
Smelt are typically found in rivers and streams. Check local fishing reports and tackle shops for the best current locations near Bend.
What should I use to catch smelt in Oregon?
Small mesh nets or specialized smelt rigs are generally used to catch smelt. Be sure to check Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations for legal gear types.
When is the peak season for smelt fishing near Bend, Oregon?
The timing of smelt runs can vary. Contact the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife or local tackle shops for the most current information on smelt run timing near Bend.
Other Species to Fish in Bend
Ready to Catch Smelt in Bend?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.