Approximately 90 min. from Seattle, the Sauk is a free-flowing river and one of the primary tributaries of the Skagit. Unparalleled in its beauty, thanks to a rugged character and remote feel, the Sauk River ranks as one of the top experiences in Washington fly fishing. Not only is it a part of the Wild and Scenic Rivers System, but it also boasts some of the most storied and scenic waters anywhere on the Steelhead Coast.

Prone to cloudiness due to sediment runoff in wet weather, its waters are indeed temperamental. However, if you catch the river at the right level, you’ll see a tint of the river known to local anglers as “Sauk green”—the perfect level of clarity to make a fresh run of grabby fish feel secure. Hooking into a chrome native steelhead is no longer as common as it used to be due to early closures, but getting to know the Sauk in all its seasons and moods is always worth the trip.