Sometimes we don’t get the fish, sometimes we don’t get the shot. And sometimes we don’t even think about it because there is just too much going on.
You are not going to get a slick fish picture, but I am going to let you in on a little secret called “License to Chill” on the Kalama River in Washington State. This underdog tributary of the Columbia River is often overlooked, but why? Well, it’s hard to get to, and access is limited, but there are substantial year-long opportunities for salmon and steelhead runs. It’s a sweet spot, roughly 45 miles long, and narrow enough to cast across to the opposite bank.
It may be relatively small, but when you’re there you feel the pulse. It’s a mainline to the Pacific Northwest heartbeat. The swift mossy green waters amble through the Cascades from Mt St Helens to the Columbia.
License to Chill hosts 19 private acres of preserved forest, easy access to the riverbank, and multiple runs every year. Spring chinook get a lot of attention, followed by summer steelhead, coho in the fall, and the almighty winter steelhead running well into the spring.
Can you keep them? No. This is a strictly managed catch-and-release barbless fly-fishing stretch.
Should you pull them out of the water, take a picture, and admire your fish? No, what’s the point of that? You’re causing stress, suffocation, and possible internal injury. This river isn’t for the eating fish, it’s for the experience. No Kill Kalama is just the place to go if you want to unwind and wet your line.
I am one of those people who believes that all humans should have the right to forage, hunt, and fish for our own sustenance. And, why not fun? However, I also think we should absolutely look outside of ourselves at the natural world, sustainability, and what we are leaving for each other and our children.
This isn’t a debate, but a few words to share what a great time I had on the Kalama River. If other like-minded folks appreciate the suggestion, then I’m pleased about that!
So much love and history has gone into this cabin and property. It is really one of a kind. At 90 feet above the river, you can feel it roar under you as you drift to sleep. If you like eagles, how about taking a shower outdoors while they fly above giant Red Cedars? It is epic!
