Jet Boat Adventures & Fishing with Beamers in Clarkston - Lewiston

Jet Boat Adventures & Fishing with Beamers in Clarkston

Lewistoneasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2 hours to full day

Fitness Level

Suitable for most fitness levels; minimal physical exertion required aside from brief onshore stops

Overview

Experience Hells Canyon’s raw beauty with Beamers Hells Canyon Tours—offering jet boat rides, fishing charters, and wine cruises along the Snake River near Clarkston, Washington.

Details

Beamers Hells Canyon Tours operates out of Clarkston, Washington, offering an authentic gateway to the dramatic landscapes of Hells Canyon, North America's deepest river gorge. Situated along the Snake River, this region combines rugged geological formations, diverse wildlife, and rich history into every itinerary. Beamers specializes in jet boat tours that traverse Hells Canyon’s winding waterways, presenting travelers with views of sheer basalt cliffs, forested hillsides, and wildlife such as bald eagles, bighorn sheep, and moose crossing the river.

Guests at Beamers can select from a range of boat trips tailored to different interests and timeframes: from brief 2-hour discovery tours providing an immersive introduction to the canyon, to full-day jet boat excursions that include multiple stops for swimming, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The mail boat tour is a standout experience, combining transportation of local mail with exploratory stops at ranches and orchards, deeply embedding visitors in this unique riverside culture.

For anglers, fall and winter steelhead and salmon fishing charters offer prime opportunities to engage with the river’s renowned fishing grounds under the guidance of seasoned captains familiar with seasonal patterns and prime spots. Evening and unWINEd wine-tasting cruises add a relaxed, social dimension to the offerings, perfect for soaking in sunset colors over the water while sampling regional wines.

The crew’s commitment to safety, comfort, and an informative narrative sets Beamers apart. Captains like Jace and deckhands like Jeff bring a wealth of local knowledge that enhances every moment onboard. From snack breaks at rustic river stops to generous sack lunches served riverside, the tours emphasize a hands-on appreciation for the land and river.

Beamers is more than a tour company; it’s an invitation to connect deeply with one of the Northwest’s most striking natural playgrounds, where geology, wildlife, and heritage intertwine across each mile of river. Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, Beamers crafts an experience as dynamic and enduring as Hells Canyon itself.

Adventure Tips

Wear layered clothing

Temperatures can shift quickly on the river, so dress in layers to stay comfortable throughout your tour.

Bring sun protection

Even on cooler days, UV exposure on the water is intense; sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat are vital.

Stay hydrated

Carry a reusable water bottle since physical activity and sun exposure require consistent hydration.

Follow crew instructions

For safety during transfers and stops, listen closely to the captain and deckhand’s guidance on how to board and disembark safely.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Cache Creek visitor center with detailed regional history
  • Secluded sandy beach stops ideal for swimming and short hikes

Wildlife

  • Bighorn sheep along canyon cliffs
  • Bald eagles soaring over the river

History

Hells Canyon has been home to Native American tribes for thousands of years and remains rich in cultural artifacts and stories, reflected in the mail boat routes.

Conservation

Beamers prioritizes sustainable river travel practices, minimizing environmental impact through careful route planning and encouraging Leave No Trace principles.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour
Late morning after soft light settles
Sunset cruises

Best Viewpoints

  • Cliffs from water level aboard the jet boat
  • Sandy beach stopping points
  • Cache Creek visitor center outlook

What to Photograph

Towering basalt cliffs
Wildlife like eagles and sheep
Sunlit river reflections

Recommended Gear

Layered clothing

Essential

Adjusts for temperature shifts on the river and shade to sun exposure changes.

Water-resistant jacket

Essential

Protects against unexpected rain showers or river spray during cooler months.

spring|fall|winter specific

Polarized sunglasses

Essential

Reduces glare on the water, enhancing comfort and visibility.

Reusable water bottle

Essential

Keeps you hydrated throughout your active outing.