Applegate River

The Applegate River is the second largest tributary to the Rogue River, and provides a substantial fishery below Applegate Dam for winter steelhead. It is stocked with thousands of hatchery smolts annually and also supports a healthy native run. Anglers catch winter steelhead on the Applegate on traditional drift fishing gear and lures. Flyfishers also stand a decent chance of hooking large, bright winter steelhead on a small, intimate river by dead-drifting nymphs or egg patterns. Public access on the Applegate is limited but the Forest Service administers several campgrounds and small inholdings below Applegate Dam. Above the dam is mostly public land, and the Applegate River tributaries provide quality angling opportunities for wild rainbow, cutthroat, and brook trout.

A valid Oregon state fishing license is needed to fish within the National Forest. Licenses are sold at sporting good and other retail stores. For information on fishing times & limits a current state fishing regulation guide is generally available free at these same locations. For more information contact the Oregon Department of Fish & Game.

Many of the lakes have maintained hiking trails; some require cross-country travel.

Take Hwy 238 southwest from Medford approximately 13 miles to the town of Ruch. Take a left on Upper Applegate Rd., passing Star Ranger Station after six miles, to various river access points including Jackson, McKee Bridge, and Flumet Flat.