Fly Fishing
During the summer of 1890 Rudyard Kipling fished from the banks of America's western rivers, very much like the river which winds across Surprise Valley Ranch. Later recalling a particularly exciting day, Kipling wrote: "The fish bit the brown hook as though never a fat trout-fly had fallen on the water...At the fortieth trout I gave up counting, and I had reached the fortieth in less than two hours...They fought like small tigers... Ye gods! That was fishing."
Past guests at the ranch will attest to the quality and quantity of fish in our ponds, streams and river. We can't promise you'll have a day like Kipling's, but it's not unheard of around here!
Aquatic Habitat Restoration
Surprise Valley Ranch has embarked on a project to restore the habitat of Cutthroat Trout and other native species. Spawning areas, feeding pools and protective cover are undergoing focused attention and restoration. Our goal is to offer these amazing fish a place to live and flourish for generations to come. These are the catch and release headwaters of the Sapello River, and we are dedicated their protection.
If you are interested in joining us to learn about aquatic habitat restoration, please let us know when you book your stay and we will make sure our team will be working on the project while you are here.