Steelhead and Salmon Fishing Guide — Renton, WA's Most Trusted Guide on Washington's Rivers
Washington State is home to some of the finest steelhead and salmon fishing in the country — and Capt. Chris Kairuz has been guiding anglers through it for over 15 years. Based in Renton, WA, he runs guided steelhead and salmon fishing trips across the best rivers in Western Washington, including the Humptulips, Wynoochee, Satsop, and Kalama. Whether you’re a first-time angler or a seasoned steelheader, every trip comes fully loaded: rods, reels, tackle, bait, and your Washington fishing license are all included. Your job is to show up. His job is to put you on fish.
YEARS ON THE WATER
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Washington Rivers
WDFW Licensed
Full Day Steelhead and Salmon Trips - $300 Per Angler
Trips are priced simply: $300 per angler, all-inclusive of everything you need to fish. No hidden fees, no gear rental add-ons, no surprises at the dock.
The complete steelhead and salmon experience. An entire day on the river from first light, targeting steelhead and salmon through Washington’s most productive runs. Capt. Chris works multiple holes and techniques throughout the day to maximize your chances at landing a chrome steelhead.
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Tucked away on Washington’s Olympic Peninsula, the Humptulips River is a hidden gem for serious salmon and steelhead anglers. Known for strong runs of Chinook, coho, and chum salmon alongside wild winter steelhead, the “Hump” offers an intimate fishing experience surrounded by old-growth timber and pristine scenery. Its smaller size means less pressure and more opportunities for the patient angler willing to explore its productive pools and runs.
A tributary of the Chehalis system, the Wynoochee River delivers consistent action for both salmon and steelhead throughout the season. Coho and Chinook push through in the fall, followed by steelhead runs that keep the river fishing well into winter and early spring. The Wynoochee’s clear, accessible waters make it a favorite for both wading anglers and those fishing from a drift boat, offering a classic Pacific Northwest river experience at every bend.
A beloved tributary of the Chehalis River on Washington’s Olympic Peninsula, the Satsop River offers outstanding salmon and steelhead fishing in a peaceful, uncrowded setting. The river’s three forks — East, West, and Middle — give anglers plenty of water to explore, with each branch offering its own unique character and productive holding water. Fall brings strong runs of Chinook and coho salmon, while winter and early spring steelhead keep the action going well into the new year. With its clear, gravel-bottomed runs and classic Pacific Northwest scenery, the Satsop is a must-fish destination for anyone serious about chasing salmon and steelhead in Washington State.
Washington has both winter and summer steelhead and salmon runs, and Capt. Chris fishes them all. Winter runs (December–March) are the most productive on the Humptulips, Wynoochee, and Satsop. Summer runs (June–September) target the Kalama and select Olympic Peninsula rivers. Year-round, there’s always a river worth fishing — and he knows which one.
Washington Rivers We Fish — From Renton to the Coast
Based out of Renton, WA, Capt. Chris fishes the rivers that produce — not just the ones closest to the parking lot. His knowledge spans the entire Western Washington river system, and he chooses each trip’s destination based on current run reports, water conditions, and the season.
Washington’s mightiest river. World-class steelhead and salmon runs. Drift boat and bank fishing available.
Southwest Washington gem. Excellent winter steelhead fishery with beautiful scenery and accessible runs.
One of Washington’s most productive hatchery steelhead rivers. Consistent action throughout the season.
Olympic Peninsula wild steelhead destination. Some of the most pristine river fishing in the Pacific Northwest.
Southwest Washington trophy river. Famous for large chrome steelhead and consistent winter/spring seasons.
Conditions determine the river.
Capt. Chris fishes where the fish are.
Washington has both winter and summer steelhead runs, and Capt. Chris fishes them all. Winter runs (December–March) are the most productive on the Cowlitz, Chehalis, and lower Columbia. Summer runs (June–September) target the upper Columbia, Kalama, and select Olympic Peninsula rivers. Year-round, there’s always a river worth fishing — and he knows which one.
What's Included — And What to Bring
Steelhead Guide keeps it simple. Everything you need to fish is on the boat or in the truck. The only thing Capt. Chris asks is that you show up ready to fish.
WE TAKE CARE OF
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Quality gear for all skill levels — nothing to bring
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Roe, spinners, and lures appropriate to conditions
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We’ll clean and bag your catch so it’s ready to take home
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Life jackets, first aid, and all required safety gear
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We pick the best water each day for maximum success
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Expert coaching from cast to landing — for all levels
You're Responsible For
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Bring snacks, lunch, water, and coffee for the day
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Bring your own waders and appropriate boots for the river
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Pacific NW weather changes fast — dress in layers
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SPF, medications, and any personal essentials you need
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Custom rods, fly gear, or specialty equipment not provided
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Each angler must obtain their own valid Washington State fishing license and catch card prior to the trip.
No problem. Capt. Chris will teach you everything you need to know before the first cast.
Have questions about booking a guided steelhead and salmon trip in Washington? Here are the answers anglers ask most.
How much does a guided steelhead and salmon fishing trip in Washington cost?
Steelhead Guide charges $300 per angler for full-day trips. The price is all-inclusive — rods, reels, tackle, bait, and your Washington state fishing license are all provided. Anglers are responsible for their own food, drinks, waders, and rain gear.
Where does Steelhead Guide operate out of?
Capt. Chris Kairuz is based in Renton, WA and guides steelhead fishing trips across Western Washington. He fishes the Humptulips, Wynoochee, Satsop, Kalama, and other rivers depending on current conditions and run timing.
What rivers in Washington are best for steelhead and salmon fishing?
When it comes to steelhead fishing in Washington, few rivers rival the Wynoochee and Satsop for sheer consistency — the Wynoochee delivers strong hatchery runs while the Satsop is world-renowned for its wild steelhead. On the south end, the Kalama offers nearly year-round opportunity with both winter and summer runs, and the Humptulips rounds things out as a reliable coastal option each fall and winter. Capt. Chris monitors current reports and selects the best river for the time of year, so every trip puts you where the fish are.
Do I need a fishing license for a guided steelhead and salmon trip?
A valid Washington State fishing license and salmon/steelhead catch record card are required for all guests and are not included in the trip fee. Capt. Chris will send you everything you need to get both sorted ahead of your trip — so you’re ready to fish from the moment you step on the boat
Do I need experience to book a guided steelhead and salmon trip?
No fishing experience is required. Capt. Chris works with anglers of all skill levels — from complete beginners to experienced steelheaders. He’ll coach you on technique, reading the water, and how to fight and land a steelhead from your very first cast.
Ready to get on the water?
Spots fill up fast — especially during peak winter steelhead season. Send Capt. Chris a quick inquiry and he’ll get back to you within 24 hours with availability, river conditions, and everything you need to know before your trip.