Every summer I plan 3-4 day fishing trip by drift boat with two friends. The last two years has been on the wild and scenic section of the Rogue River. The river is awesome but the fishing was a slow and there was way too much time spent navigating the river, and not enough time fishing. Looking for suggestions on a productive Northwest summer river that can support a 2-3 float by drift boat, and more brainless than class IV and V- any help is appreciated.

As you may guess I have floated the Rogue as well and also found the fishing to be a bit slow. You may want to try the lower river, but then you end up with the sleds. I agree the rogue is great fun, but blossom will scar the *&^%$ out of a guy. Try the McKenzie in the Eugene area, or the Hoh. The McKenzie is no cake walk, and the Hoh is more likely to go out on you with warm weather and glacial run off.

You might take a look at the Deschutes in Oregon. Beautiful river, good fishing, and other than a couple of rapids, fairly easy drifting. Only thing though is you cannot fish from the boat.

Hey Floater,
For a change of pace, you might try the John Day river in Oregon. Mid spring when flows are in the 2500, to 5000 cfs area have been great times for my friends and I. I know its not our first choice, but the smallmouth are generally large and plentiful. There are many choices for multi day drifts. Service Creek/Clarno, or Clarno/Cottonwood are two excellent and very relaxing sections.
Just a thought...
Bob

The lower Salmon river in Idaho is a winner for what you are looking for. Very remote, easy yet exciting, and great fishing.. Its got the best camping spots of any of these mentioned. Huge white sand beaches. Pack it in and pack it out, that includes your poop so bring a groover.. If you want some info send me a e-mail