The Umpqua River in Douglas County, Oregon represents one of the most significant and productive fisheries in the Pacific Northwest, flowing over 100 miles from its source in the Cascade Range to the Pacific Ocean at Winchester Bay. This remarkable river system comprises the North Umpqua River, which originates from Maidu Lake at 5,980 feet elevation in the Mount Thielsen Wilderness, and the South Umpqua River, which begins high in the Cascades north of Fish Mountain. The river drains diverse eco-regions and supports an exceptional variety of fish species throughout the year. The Smith River, a 90-mile tributary, flows west through the Siuslaw National Forest and joins the Umpqua near Reedsport, adding to the system's productivity. This confluence of waters creates fishing opportunities that locals proudly claim are available virtually any time of year, from steelhead in winter to smallmouth bass in summer and salmon runs in fall.