Southern Oregon in the spring has a way of feeling like the perfect fishing getaway. The rivers cut through thick forests right down to the coast, with water the color of strong coffee after a rain and banks lined with ferns and old-growth fir. Guys from California roll up here pretty often because it is not a huge haul and the whole place just feels raw and alive compared to the crowded spots back home.

These spring Chinook come in fresh and bright, full of ocean energy, and they hit like they mean it. You are drifting bait or running a plug through a deep slot when that first heavy thump comes, and suddenly the rod is doubled over with a fish that wants to take you downstream. It is the kind of fight that leaves your arms sore and your grin stuck in place for hours.

Dillyn Paradzinski of DP Guide Service has been out there and has a handful of days in the upcoming weeks. He knows these rivers cold and has a couple of those dates still open if you want to get in on the early push. Worth shooting him a text to lock one down.