Clearwater River Steelhead Fishing Report 2023

Written by Toby Wyatt

Toby has been a fishing guide for 32 years. Toby grew up chasing big fish on area rivers. Toby was voted one of the top 25 guides on the west coast by Salmon & Steelhead Journal. He has also been featured in numerous magazine articles, radio programs, T.V. fishing shows on the Columbia River to the Clearwater River.

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Posted January 6, 2023

Steelhead Fishing Report Page, Please Come Back To See

Are you ready to make your Steelhead fishing dreams come true? Get the latest scoop on Steelhead hot spots stretching from Washington to Idaho. Whether it’s casting a line in the legendary Columbia River or its tributaries. Plus, some prime spots on the Clearwater Rivers and Snake River. Get ready for an epic angling experience with Reel Time Fishing.

Call (208) 790-2128

Fishing remains stellar on the Clearwater River

We have experienced one of the best steelhead seasons in 20 years. River temps are currently on the rise as we are experiencing a warming trend causing a bit of snow melt.

This is usually a signal for the steelhead to move into the Clearwater and make their way towards Orofino Idaho and Dworshak national fish hatchery. February is poised to be possibly our best month of catch rates.

Our rates for this trip are $275 per person. We provide poles, bait, and tackle and look forward to 8 hours of fishing. TEST

Our Amazing Fishing Guide Reviews

Based on 93 reviews

Kimberly Kempton

January 27, 2023

I had the best time steelhead fishing on the Clearwater with Captain Jim from Reel Time Fishing. He put us on the fish and we were able to bring in all that we caught. He was very professional and accommodating in every way. He made us a great hot lunch each day. We back trolled and side drifted and had so much fun bringing in all those beautiful fish. We stayed at the Lenore Lodge which was 3 mins from the launch. The lodge had 10 beds and an awesome game room. It was very clean and comfortable. I do suggest Reel Time Fishing for an epic trip and I will definitely return for more fishing.

J RAND LOTHSPEICH

January 27, 2023

Just spent the last two days fishing with Jim our guide- fantastic time!!! I have caught in the neighbourhood of 40 steelhead in my life time and I caught the two biggest on this trip 37” 14lbs- perfect boat great equipment- we also stayed at the lodge in Lenore perfect

Michael Pickren

October 18, 2022

I highly recommend Jeff at Real Time Guides who put us on some outstanding fish both days we were here.

Ashleigh Schultz

October 10, 2022

Great time with Jim Carter, Again! fantastic day on the river!

Larry Meier

September 27, 2022

They treat you well and provide alot and share secret spots

Ken Gutowski

September 20, 2022

Great trip,Travis worked super hard to get our salmon!

Jason Person

August 27, 2022

We fished a half day for Sturgeon with Jeff and had a great trip. Caught 3 Sturgeon and one was really nice (7'6"). Boat and equipment were top notch. Definitely would book with Reel Time again. Don't be afraid to book with them, the price is right and the guides know what they are doing. Thanks for the great trip.

Monica Jaeger

July 15, 2022

Had an amazing time with Shane! Very experienced and knew exactly where to go. Well worth the time and money. If we lived closer we would book again!

Colton Malone

June 16, 2022

Great time with great people! The Clearwater was high and supposedly blown out but our guide, Jeff, still put us on some great fish and we tagged out in 3 hours! Definitely coming back.

Frequently Asked Questions about our fishing trips

HOW MANY PEOPLE CAN I BRING ON MY TRIP?

The legal max boatload is six anglers, but with six full time guides available we are able to accommodate large groups of more than six people.

IS LUNCH/DRINKS PROVIDED ON MY TRIPS?

We do provide a BBQ lunch and drinks on all Clearwater, Snake, and Dworshak trips. Lunch and drinks ARE NOT provided on any of our Columbia River or Grande Ronde river trips.

HOW MANY HOURS ARE WE ON THE WATER?

Look forward to at least 8 hours of fishing unless you book a half day trip, then look forward to 4 hours of fishing

DO YOU PROVIDE ALL THE GEAR WE NEED TO FISH?

Yes, each guide is fully equipped with top-notch rods, reels and bait to ensure success on your trip.

DO I NEED TO PRE-PAY OR PLACE A DEPOSIT DOWN TO HOLD MY SPOT?

We require a 50% deposit at the time of booking, final payment must be made in full 10 days prior to your trip. We do not offer refunds for cancellations or head-count changes made inside 10 days of your trip.

DO YOU CLEAN AND FILLET OUR CATCH?

Yes, all of our guides will clean and fillet your catch unless otherwise specified.