Frequently Asked Questions

Wear clothing that can get wet—quick-dry shorts, synthetic or wool layers (no cotton), and secure footwear (water shoes, sneakers, or sandals with straps). Bring a hat, sunglasses with a strap, and sunscreen. We provide rain gear when the weather requires it. If you chill easily, bring an extra layer! 

Sunscreen, water bottle (we provide refills), extra layers, towel for after, and dry clothes to change into. Waterproof cameras welcome! Cell phones and keys can be stored in the dry bag. Leave valuables at home or in your locked car. Dogs should bring their own life jacket, and if they don't have one, we have extras).

Dogs must be vaccinated, socialized, and on leash for paddleboarding and drift boat or rafting trips. Please let us know when booking so we can plan accordingly. Other guests may not be comfortable with a canine companion on their trip, and we group accordingly. 

5 years old is our minimum age requirement. And we can provide appropriately sized life jackets. Paddleboarding: 5 - 12 years must ride tandem with a parent or guardian. 

Nope! Our guides work with complete beginners every day. We'll teach you everything you need to know before we launch.

You don't need to know how to swim. Everyone wears a Coast Guard-approved life jacket, and our guides are trained first responders. McKenzie River Fishing Guides and Rafting Tours has a 100% safety rating. 

All safety equipment (life jackets, helmets, wetsuits if needed), expert guide service, water, snacks (half-day) or lunch (full-day), and transportation back to your vehicle. Fishing trips include all gear and tackle.

• Half-day rafting: 3-3.5 hours on water, 4 hours total
• Full-day rafting: 6-6.5 hours on water, 7 hours total
• Fishing trips: Full-day 8 hours, Half-day 4 hours
• Paddleboard sessions: Full-day 3-3.5 hours, Half-day 6-6.5 hours

Our standard fare includes hearty turkey sandwiches, potato salad, fruit salad, and delicious cowboy cookies. For fishing trips, riverside fish fry lunches can be arranged. Dietary accommodations can be made with 36 hours' notice. 

Yes, all anglers 12+ need a valid Oregon fishing license. Purchase online at  MyODFW.comor we can help you get one.

Native rainbow trout, bull trout (catch & release only), and seasonal steelhead. The McKenzie is famous for its wild trout—we practice catch & release to protect these populations.

Yes! Rods, reels, flies, and all tackle included. Bring your own gear if you prefer—Bob and our experienced fishing guides love helping with setups and adding a teaching component to the trip. 

Call us at (425)886-4282 or email bspencer.2272@gmail.com, or use our online booking form. We recommend booking 2-4 weeks ahead during peak season (June-August). 

Cancel 3+ days before: Full refund  

Cancel 0-2 days before: No refund (unless we cancel due to weather/safety)  

We get it—life happens. Contact us, and we'll work with you. We can reschedule!

Yes! Private trips are our specialty. Perfect for families, celebrations, corporate groups, or anyone who wants to spend time with their inner circle.

Beyond McKenzie River rafting and fishing, we run:

• Clear Lake, Fish Lake, and Leaburg Lake paddleboarding. 
• We offer paddleboarding on Siltcoos Lake and Devils Lake at the Oregon Dunes upon special request. 
• We are always happy to create custom adventure packages

Absolutely! Popular combos: morning fishing + afternoon rafting, or paddleboard lesson + golden hour river float. Let us customize your adventure.

Hiking (Tamolitch Blue Pool, Sahalie & Koosah Falls), scenic drives (McKenzie Pass when open), hot springs, and great local restaurants, farmsteads, and food trucks are available along the McKenzie River's "60-mile Main Street". Ask us about upriver festivals - Lavender Festival, Barn-a-dilly - and events -rodeos, races, live music - that might coincide with your trip!