ELK RIVER:    Each fall Chinook salmon return to the mouth of the Elk River, waiting for the first significant rain fall that will allow them to migrate upstream. Fishermen arrive with those rains as well, fishing at the mouth (access from Cape Blanco State Park campground or Paradise Point), and then throughout the river from the banks and by drift boat. Drift boat take outs are all east of the Hwy 101 bridge. During the season, you can't help but notice fishing is usually good under the Hwy 101 bridge, it is a popular fishing hole. Salmon catch is a mix of wild and hatchery fish.

Elk River above the hatchery is designated a National Wild and Scenic River and is protected. A drive is spectacular as you encounter the beauty of one of Oregon's pristine old-growth forest/river ecosystems. Spring in particular, brings lust forest growth, waterfalls, and a wild and spectacular river. Bring a camera and enjoy!

Primitive camping opportunities include: Butler Bar; Sunshine Bar and Laird Lake

SIXES RIVER:   The Sixes River is an important salmon habitat and fishing stream. The river is home to late run Chinook Salmon, with fishing season beginning after the first heavy rains of fall, closing at year end. Most years, rain begins mid to late October, with a few years pushing into November. Returning fish naturally spawn in the Sixes, as there are no hatcheries.

Fishing on the Sixes is on the bank or by drift boat, with most boats taking out at Sixes Store or Sixes Day Use in the heart of Cape Blanco State Park.

SIXES GOLD: Traces of gold still wash down the stream, and there are still a few miners around. Historically, gold was mined in the black sands of Cape Blanco, both on the Sixes and the Elk, as the cape is flanked by both. Check with BLM (541 756 0100) for opportunities in the upper river, and Oregon State Parks (541 332 6774) for more information on opportunities to pan for gold on the lower Sixes.

Primitive BLM camping on the Sixes: Edson Creek (no listing under BLM found, 541 756 0100 for info on this park);   Sixes River (about 12 miles east); west on Cape Blanco Road is a full service campground: Cape Blanco State Park.    Below: Sixes canyon, & waterfall; above left Sixes Swimming Hole at Edson Creek.