LA GRANDE, OREGON__The popular Steelhead Spectacular fishing train will run this season on a slightly shortened schedule beginning February 20. The Minam Motel has resolved some challenges and reached an agreement with the Wallowa Union Railroad Authority, allowing it to run its one-of-a-kind operation of accessing remote fishing holes on the Wallowa River via train. The Friends of the Joseph Branch, the non-profit support group for the excursion train side of the railroad business, assisted the Minam Motel to ensure the fish train runs this year.
"The Friends were anxious to help," said Joe Kresse, President of the Friends of the Joseph Branch. "We recognize the value of the Steelhead Spectacular as a visitor attraction during the slowest time of year for tourism businesses. We also know that running this train leads to additional passengers during the summer season."
The new schedule has the Steelhead Spectacular boarding at 7 a.m. on Saturday, February 20 and continuing with trips February 21, 26, 27 and March 6, 7, 12, 13, and 20. Over 400 reservations have been made, but there are still a few places for fishermen to get on board. Contact the Minam Motel, reservations@minammotel.com or 541.437.4475 for reservations or go to www.minammotel.com for more information.
The Steelhead Spectacular, also known as the Fish Train, is a partnership between the Wallowa Union Railroad and the Minam Motel. It departs from the boarding site next to the motel in Minam, at the confluence of the Wallowa and Minam Rivers, along Oregon Highway 82 in northeast Oregon. In its sixth season, the Fish Train deposits fishers at prime fishing holes along an eight-mile stretch of the roadless lower section of the Wild & Scenic designated Wallowa River. At the end of the day, the train collects the passengers and returns them to Minam. It provides an unforgettable outdoor recreation experience in an incredibly beautiful and remote setting.
The unique steelhead fishing experience has drawn the attention of outdoor recreation writers and producers across Oregon and throughout the United States. Central Oregon author, speaker and TV host, Gary Lewis is checking it out this weekend, February 20 & 21. Watch for his articles, blog and television show at www.GaryLewisOutdoors.com
For more information on the railroad's summer excursion season, go to www.eaglecaptrain.com. The 2010 schedule will be posted there in early March.
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