Discover the art of Spey fishing on the Klickitat River, where powerful steelhead runs meet stunning canyon scenery.
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If there’s a river made for spey casting, it’s the Klickitat. Wide, glacial water, steady canyon winds, and long runs where a swung fly shines — this is water built for the two-handed rod. For steelhead anglers, few things compare to finding the right rhythm, feeling the line tighten, and coming tight to a Klickitat steelhead on the swing.
With guide Nate Funmaker, every spey trip is about more than just covering water. It’s about learning how to set up for each run, building confidence in your cast, and trusting the swing. Whether you’re brand-new to two-handed rods or refining years of experience, the Klickitat is the perfect place to grow your spey game and chase wild fish at the same time.
Fishing spey on the Klickitat means stepping into classic steelhead water. You’ll wade knee-deep through long tailouts and riffles, casting across wide seams where fish hold. It’s slower fishing than stripping streamers or drifting nymphs, but it’s deliberate — every swing carries anticipation.
Steelhead aren’t always generous, but when the take comes, it’s unforgettable: a sharp pull, a surge downstream, and a fish that tests every bit of your tackle and patience. Add in the backdrop of canyon walls, fall colors, and wildlife along the banks, and it’s the kind of trip that feels as much about the place as the fish.
Beginner Spey Anglers: Learn the fundamentals of casting, anchor placement, and swing control in a supportive, step-by-step way.
Experienced Anglers: Refine casting techniques, cover more complex water, and target some of the Klickitat’s most productive steelhead lies.
Full day: $300/Person
Half day: $200/Person
Full-day trips: 8 Hours
Half-day trips: 4 Hours
Suitable for beginners to experienced anglers; instruction and technique tips provided.
Spot eagles, deer, blue herons, wildflowers, and fascinating geological formations along the riverbanks.
Provided (Optional)
No. Many anglers use these trips as their introduction to two-handed casting. Nate will walk you through the fundamentals — anchor placement, D-loops, line management, and the rhythm of the swing. With some practice, you’ll be fishing confidently by the end of the day.
The prime season for swinging flies with a two-handed rod is September through November, when fall steelhead are fresh and water conditions favor the swing. Early winter also provides opportunities for larger wild steelhead, though conditions can be more challenging.
High-quality spey rods, reels, shooting heads, leaders, and flies are available for use. You’re welcome to bring your own setup if you already fish spey — Nate can help fine-tune your rig for Klickitat conditions.
It’s different, but not necessarily harder. Spey casting uses water-anchored techniques instead of backcasts, which often makes it easier to fish big rivers like the Klickitat. The learning curve can be steep, but it’s also rewarding — and many anglers find it less physically demanding once they get the hang of it.
You’ll need a valid Washington fishing license with steelhead/salmon endorsement, plus appropriate clothing for the season. Layered clothing, waders, boots, polarized sunglasses, and gloves are strongly recommended.
The Klickitat is a glacial river, so clarity can shift quickly. If flows or visibility make conditions unfishable, trips may be rescheduled or adjusted to maximize your chances of success.
Anyone who wants to experience swinging flies for steelhead. Beginners can use this as their gateway into spey casting, while experienced anglers will appreciate the chance to fish prime Klickitat water with a knowledgeable local guide.
Book your trip online or call our reservation team for assistance.
Book your trip online or call our reservation team for assistance.
