The Middle Fork of the Salmon River is one of the premier fishing rivers in the Continental U.S. for native cutthroat and rainbow trout. The water is crystal clear, the fish are aggressive and the size of the fish are all outstanding. The Middle Fork is a classic dry fly fishery. Consequently, Middle Fork Outfitters encourages most of their guests to fly fish. Even the novice angler stands an excellent chance of landing significant numbers of fish each day. Because the Middle Fork is a prolific fly fishing river, it is an outstanding place to introduce the young or novice angler to the sport. The guides are all avid fishers and take pleasure in teaching the beginner all facets of fly fishing. Fish will range in size from 10-21 inches with the average fish being in the 12 to 15 inch range. During the course of the trip, an experienced angler able to place a fly gently next to cliffs, rocks and other holding water should hope to catch a few fish in the 16-18 inch range and an occasional 20-21 inch Dolly Varden. Assuming that the fish cooperate a little, it is not uncommon for the skilled angler to frequently catch more than 50 trout in a day.

The Middle Fork of the Salmon plunges 2,800 feet in elevation with over 80 thrilling rapids in 100 miles. The whitewater rafting is good throughout the summer. June is the biggest whitewater of the season when the spring runoff fills the banks of the Middle Fork and creates large waves and challenging fun. During July and August the water warms up and the water levels drop, but the whitewater excitement remains with technical maneuvering through boulder gardens and breathtaking drops into clear pools. Middle Fork Wilderness Outfitters uses self-bailing rafts and equipment designed specifically for the demands of whitewater rafting. The guides are experienced professionals who are dedicated to assuring you a safe, comfortable and fun river trip. There are several ways to enjoy your river rafting trip down the Middle Fork of the Salmon. The oar boats provide the opportunity to fish, take photographs or just relax and enjoy the spectacular scenery while your guide expertly maneuvers the raft down the river. The paddleboats get you right into the action allowing you to paddle as a team down the rapids with the guide giving direction from the stern. And finally for the ultimate challenge they offer inflatable kayaks for those who want to paddle on their own. You are free to choose your boat(s) every day and typically our guests take turns in each type of boat to fully experience the river-kayak the morning, paddle the afternoon and fish from the oar boat the next day! The team of guides will closely supervise all of these activities to ensure your safety at all times.