Outing Leader: Mark Conner

At over 100 miles, the Klickitat River, located in Southeastern Washington, is one of the state’s longest free flowing rivers from its glacial source to its confluence with the Columbia River. The river originates in the snow capped peaks of Mount Adams, a 12, 276-ft. active volcano. This renowned Pacific Northwest steelhead and salmon stream gains momentum quickly, dropping approximately 5,000 feet in elevation over its course. 100 year old “character” Oregon White Oak trees ornament the hillsides of the river gorge. The Klickitat provides passage and spawning grounds for a variety of native anadromous fish, predominantly spring and fall runs of Chinook Salmon but also Coho (Silver) Salmon. 

The Outings Fee is $25 and covers all the food from Saturday breakfast through Sunday lunch. 

To see pictures from previous outings, click here.

Directions and map to Stinson Flats.

WHAT TO BRING: 

• Washington steelhead fishing license with Columbia River Salmon and Steelhead Endorsement
• Camping gear 
• Boat (pontoon boat would work)
• Six or seven weight rod 
• Reel with at least 100 yards of backing 
• Floating line with nine-foot 1- or 2-X leader 
• Stonefly nymphs, 4s and 6s; egg patterns 
• Vest, hat and glasses (with strap)
• Camera in waterproof container
• Water bottle
• Snacks in Ziplock bag in your vest
• Folding camp chair 
  

HOW TO GET THERE:

• Take I-90 east to Exit 108 to I-82 (just past Ellensburg) and head south towards Yakima.
• Take Exit 50 onto Rte. 22 south 6 miles through Toppenish to Rte. 97 towards Goldendale.
• After 48 miles on Rte. 97 take first Goldendale exit (Rte. 142).
• Follow Rte. 142 for 11.7 miles and turn right onto Glenwood Highway (no sign!!) 
• In 10 miles turn left at the sign for Stinson Flats. 
• Drive to the bottom of the valley and look for the NFA banner.