Helfrich River Outfitters

06/03/2026

Keeping it safe! HRO crew SWIFTWATER training

06/03/2026

Kicking off our crew SWIFTWATER rescue training today

05/24/2026

Beautiful days fishing on the McKenzie for Kenny this week!
Ken R. Helfrich

05/07/2026

04/28/2026

Lots of people have been worried about water levels for this season but overall we are looking pretty good... and its still snowing in Idaho!

“We are in better shape than most places in the West,” added Ron Abramovich, snow survey expert, now retired. “The recent winter storms are just what’s needed to slow the melt, add a little moisture to the snowpack, and rain on the soils as the snow melts. A cool wet spring would be ideal along with spring storms… read our full update- link in the comments

04/20/2026

04/07/2026

Right now, the Middle Fork of the Salmon is lining up in a way that has our attention.

After generations of watching this river—dating back to 1940—we’ve learned when the season is about to turn on. This year, we’re seeing an early June fishing window come together nicely.

This is when the canyon is lush and green, wildflowers are popping, bugs are hatching, and the fish are ready to feed. Add in the potential for bigger fish, bull trout, and the chance of overlapping the salmonfly hatch, and it becomes a pretty special time to be out there.

We originally planned our June 7th and 8th trips as rafting trips—but based on what we’re seeing, we’ve now opened both departures up to fishing as well.

This is one of those early season opportunities that doesn’t show up every year.

June 7–12 or June 8–13 | Limited spots available

If you’ve been thinking about a Middle Fork fishing trip, this is one to take seriously.

01/08/2026