The Dean River may be the best steelhead river in the world. Its fish are the epitome of wild. In addition to the steelhead, many guests come up to test their skills at the river's huge and powerful Kings. The first three weeks of their season are dedicated to chasing Kings. Even in June, early-run steelhead eat the King flies. By the third week of the season they are catching nearly as many steelhead as Kings. In July the focus is on steelhead but are occasionally surprised by a late-run big Chinook. Steelhead season continues strong through August. By mid August they are also seeing Coho intercept swung steelhead flies.
Sea lice with tails are common on these fish, because they are all fresh from the salt. Sea lice are a saltwater parasite that fall off quickly in freshwater. Their chrome-bright appearance is because they were all recently in the ocean and that look is their natural ocean camouflage. You won't find any dark green-backs, oversized kypes, soft hens or double-stripe bucks here. They haven't been in freshwater long enough to change or get tired. Clear fins, purple backs, white bellies and silver sides are the norm.
Lodge owners Jeff and Kathryn Hickman appreciate good food and only serve the freshest most nutritious meals prepared and plated by the amazingly talented chef.
The main focus of the lodge grounds is our breathtaking view. The centerpiece is the circular gazebo, which promotes the telling of libation-induced fish stories. Being within earshot of the majestic Grantham Falls, you'll be prone to stay outside into the late evening, soaking up the surroundings.