The rugged wilderness and storied past of the Rogue River Valley have made it a hotspot for treasure hunters, lured by tales of gold and hidden fortunes. While many of these legends have faded over time, one enduring mystery continues to intrigue fortune-seekers, history enthusiasts, and ghost hunters alike: the rumored hidden gold of Fort Lane. Built in 1853, Fort Lane was established during a turbulent period in Southern Oregon’s history when settlers poured into the Rogue River Valley, encroaching on lands traditionally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Takelma and Shasta. As conflicts increased, the U.S. Army intervened…
The Phantom Log Jam of Whiskey Creek
The Rise of the Rogue River Lumber Industry The Rogue River Valley was a bustling hub of Oregon’s lumber industry in the late 1800s, with vast forests of Douglas fir, pine, and cedar surrounding the area. Timber companies rushed to exploit these resources, and logging camps sprouted up along the river to process the wood and move it to mills downstream. The river’s strong currents and winding path made it an ideal natural highway for transporting timber, but it was also known to be treacherous, with swift flows and narrow passages. One of the most notorious spots was Whiskey Creek,…
The Rogue River Mail Boat Mystery
In the early 1900s, the Rogue River was an isolated and treacherous region with limited access by road. Riverboat captains, skilled at navigating the river’s rapids, were the lifeline for remote communities along the Rogue. They transported supplies, people, and, most importantly, the U.S. mail, braving challenging waters to connect the towns and homesteads scattered along the river’s banks. These mail runs were high-risk ventures, as the Rogue’s rapids, unpredictable currents, and hidden rocks made each journey dangerous. One of the most famous captains was Frank A. Benson, known for his courage, skill, and his custom-built boat, the Rogue Runner.…
The Blimp on the Rogue – A Forgotten WWII Tale of Community and Ingenuity Along the Rogue River
Tucked away in Southern Oregon’s lore is a story of resourcefulness and community spirit that few remember: the emergency landing of a Navy blimp in the rugged terrain of the Rogue River Valley during World War II. It’s a tale that has all the makings of a classic piece of Americana—a wayward airship, a team of determined Navy officers, and a resilient local community coming together to rescue an unlikely visitor to their river. Here is the remarkable story of the “Blimp on the Rogue.” A Routine Patrol Takes an Unexpected Turn The year was 1945. With WWII in its…
A Journey Through Southern Oregon’s Wild Heart – History, Heritage, and Conservation of an Iconic River
The Rogue River in Southern Oregon is more than a natural wonder—it’s a lifeline that has shaped the region’s ecology, history, and community over centuries. Stretching 215 miles from the Cascade Range to the Pacific Ocean, the Rogue has been home to Native American tribes, a gold rush hotspot, a site for epic floods, and a place where conservation meets recreation. Today, the river is cherished for its pristine wilderness, world-class fishing, and historic significance. Early History and Indigenous Heritage The Rogue River was central to the lives of the Takelma, Latgawa, and Shasta tribes, who inhabited the Rogue Valley…
Rogue-South Coast Winter Steelhead Changes
Rogue-South Coast Winter Steelhead Changes Temporary wild winter steelhead harvest restrictions are in place for the Rogue-South Coast winter steelhead season from Dec. 1, 2024-Apr. 30, 2025. Before purchasing your wild winter steelhead harvest tag, please review the restrictions: No wild winter steelhead harvest in the Illinois River. No wild winter steelhead harvest in the Rogue River upstream of the confluence with the Illinois River. Wild steelhead must be released unharmed. One wild winter steelhead may be kept in the Rogue River from the mouth to the confluence with the Illinois River. Anglers can still retain hatchery winter steelhead per…
Fall Fly Fishing on the Rogue River
A Guide to Steelhead and Chinook Season The Rogue River in Oregon is bustling with prime fishing opportunities this fall, attracting both steelhead and Chinook salmon anglers from across the region. Known for its diverse sections—each offering unique angling experiences—the Rogue provides everything from challenging fly-only waters to accessible bays and slower-moving stretches ideal for varied techniques. As fall progresses, both novice and seasoned fishers will find plentiful action across the upper, middle, and lower Rogue. Steelhead season on the Rogue is a highlight, especially with the return of wild summer steelhead in strong numbers, thanks to favorable water conditions…
Spey and Single-Handed Fly Fishing on the Rogue River
The Rogue River in Oregon is a treasure trove for fly anglers, offering a range of fishing methods to target its prized steelhead and trout. Two popular techniques, Spey casting, and traditional single-handed fly fishing, cater to this dynamic river’s diverse conditions and fish habitats. Spey casting excels in covering the Rogue’s broader, deeper sections, while single-handed casting shines in its precision, ideal for the river’s tighter runs and riffles. The Rogue provides an engaging fishing experience for all skill levels, with cutthroat trout, salmon, and bass adding diversity. This guide dives into both techniques, outlining seasonal strategies, essential gear,…
Echoes of the Rogue: A Legacy of Love, Loss, and the River’s Wisdom
Henry and Earl on the River The air was crisp and still as the dawn unfolded over the Rogue River. The mist rose off the water, weaving through the trees like whispers of the past, curling into shapes that shifted with each passing breeze. Earl steadied his hands on the oars, propelling the small drift boat forward with the ease of someone who’d been on this river a lifetime. Beside him sat his grandson, Henry, wide-eyed and grinning, bundled in a thick flannel almost too big for him. It had been his father’s flannel first, and Henry felt a thrill…
Seasons of the Rogue: A Year-Round Guide to Fly Fishing Success
Nestled in Oregon’s scenic Rogue Valley, the Rogue River beckons anglers year-round with its stunning landscapes and ever-changing fly fishing opportunities. Each season brings distinct characteristics, from fluctuating flows and water temperatures to different target species. Here’s how to adapt your fly fishing strategies to make the most of the Rogue’s bounty in every season. Winter: Pursuing the Elusive Winter Steelhead For those who relish a challenge, winter steelhead season on the Rogue is an angler’s dream. These powerful fish thrive in the colder months, drawing dedicated anglers willing to brave winter’s chill. To increase your chances, equip yourself with…