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The Mighty Columbia River

The Pacific NW has been blessed by millions of years of geological processes which have resulted in one of the most beautiful and abundant fisheries you will ever experience. . . The Mighty Columbia River. 

We are beyond excited to be able to offer guided fishing trips and charter trips on the Columbia River.

Our Columbia River Fishing Guides and Charter Captains are safe, experienced and excited for each season. 

Some of the most popular seasons we fish on the Columbia River are:


Columbia River Fall Salmon at Buoy 10: The Fall Fishery commonly referred to as "Buoy 10" typically starts August 1st each year for Fall King Salmon aka Spring Chinook. Coho Salmon aka Silvers are also a big part of this fishery.  The King Salmon fishing is general good until about the 3rd week of August when the Coho take the stage as the main target species.  Coho Salmon Fishing can stay good well into November at Buoy 10. 

 

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Columbia River Fall Chinook:  Once the fish have moved upstream from Buoy 10 fisheries our Columbia River Fishing Guides start fishing the tributaries such as the Cowlitz River, Drano Lake and the upper reaches of the Columbia River. Fall salmon fishing lasts from August into November - you just have to move upriver and into the tributaries to extend your fall fishing opportunities. 

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Columbia River Fall Coho Salmon: It is possible to catch coho salmon as early as August 1st when the lower Columbia River opens for fishing August 1st each year but coho fishing can really get crazy about the 3rd week of August and is very good into November.  Coho Salmon fishing is really good on the Lewis and Cowlitz Rivers as well which are lower river tributaries. 

 

  • Columbia River Coho Salmon Fishing Trips available August-November each year

  • Coho Salmon on the lower Columbia is good starting Mid-August

  • Coho Salmon Fishing is also good on the Cowlitz River, Lewis River Kalama River and at Drano Lake each fall


Columbia River Crabbing Trips: CRABBING is so much fun - non stop action and very productive each Fall and Winter on the Columbia River.  We offer guided crabbing trips each year in December, January & February.  Depending on weather and fishing we can also add crabbing to salmon trips! 

 

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Columbia River Sturgeon Trips:  The Columbia River opportunities for Sturgeon are announced seasonally by the ODF and WDFW.  There are both winter opportunities and late Spring/Early summer opportunities to catch prehistoric sturgeon on the Columbia River.  Winter trips are usually between Portland/Vancouver and the Bonneville Dam. The Spring/Summer season is usually Monday, Wednesday and Saturday from approximately May 10th through mid-June.  When we fish in the Spring and Summer we can also offer catch and release trips on off days. 

 

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Columbia River Spring Chinook Trips:  We usually start fishing for Columbia River Spring Chinook each year mid-late March depending on the expected run size. Columbia River Spring Chinook are considered the best tasting salmon of the year due to their high omega 3 fat content.  Many of these fish are destined for upriver locations thousands of miles from the ocean. The Cowlitz, Lewis and Kalama Rivers are popular tributaries with good returns of spring chinook. 

 

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Columbia River Tributaries and Fisheries:

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**Columbia River Fishing: Your Ultimate Guide to Unforgettable Adventures**

The Columbia River is a world-renowned destination for fishing enthusiasts. Stretching over 1,200 miles from British Columbia through Washington and Oregon to the Pacific Ocean, this iconic river is teeming with a variety of fish species that lure anglers from all corners of the globe. Whether you're after the thrilling battle of a spring Chinook, the rich rewards of fall salmon fishing, or the excitement of crabbing along the coast, Columbia River fishing offers endless opportunities for unforgettable outdoor adventures.

### Columbia River Fishing Guides: Experience the Best

If you’re looking to maximize your chances of success on the Columbia River, hiring a seasoned fishing guide is key. Columbia River fishing guides have extensive knowledge of the river’s changing conditions, fish migration patterns, and prime fishing spots. They provide expert insights and personalized instruction to ensure a productive and enjoyable trip, whether you're a novice or an experienced angler.

Guides on the Columbia River specialize in various types of fishing trips, including guided outings for spring Chinook, fall salmon, and king salmon. These trips are carefully timed to coincide with the peak fishing seasons, giving you the best possible chance of landing a trophy fish. Whether you're interested in targeting the early season spring Chinook or waiting for the excitement of the fall salmon run, a Columbia River fishing guide will help tailor your trip to meet your specific goals.

### Columbia River Charter Trips: Custom Fishing Adventures

For those seeking a more immersive fishing experience, Columbia River charter trips are the way to go. These fully-guided adventures allow you to explore different parts of the river, often in luxury and comfort. Charters offer flexibility, allowing you to target multiple species, from king salmon to Dungeness crab, and are perfect for individuals, families, or groups looking to create lifelong memories.

**Spring Chinook Fishing on the Columbia River**  
One of the most sought-after fish in the Pacific Northwest, the spring Chinook, also known as "springers," is prized for its rich, fatty flesh and its strong fight. The spring Chinook run typically begins in March and extends into June, attracting thousands of anglers hoping to hook this elusive species. Guided spring Chinook trips on the Columbia River are an excellent way to improve your odds of success, as guides know the best locations and techniques for landing this prized catch.

**Fall Salmon Fishing on the Columbia River**  
The fall salmon run on the Columbia River is legendary. From August to November, anglers flock to the river to target several species, including coho, sockeye, and the mighty king salmon. Fall salmon fishing is known for being fast-paced and action-packed, with many opportunities to catch large fish. Columbia River fishing guides offer specialized trips during this period, ensuring you experience the thrill of the salmon migration firsthand.

**King Salmon Fishing on the Columbia River**  
Also known as Chinook, king salmon are the largest of all Pacific salmon and are known for their size and power. King salmon fishing trips on the Columbia River are available throughout much of the year, but the peak seasons for both spring and fall runs are particularly exciting. Guided king salmon trips provide you with the expertise needed to tackle these powerful fish, whether trolling, jigging, or drifting.

**Crabbing on the Columbia River**  
In addition to salmon fishing, the Columbia River is also home to a rich crabbing environment, especially near its mouth, where it meets the Pacific Ocean. Dungeness crab is a popular target for those looking to diversify their fishing trip. Guided crabbing excursions are an excellent way to experience the bounty of the river and bring home a delicious catch.

### Why Choose a Guided Columbia River Fishing Trip?

1. **Local Expertise**: Columbia River fishing guides are seasoned professionals who understand the river’s intricacies. Their knowledge of tides, water levels, and fish behavior gives you a distinct advantage.
   
2. **Tailored Trips**: Whether you’re a seasoned angler looking for a challenge or a beginner hoping to learn the basics, Columbia River charter trips can be customized to suit your needs and preferences.

3. **Prime Fishing Seasons**: By booking a guided trip, you can ensure that you are fishing during the optimal times for your target species, whether it's spring Chinook, fall salmon, or king salmon.

4. **Comfort and Convenience**: Many Columbia River charter trips offer comfortable boats, high-quality fishing gear, and even amenities like meals and refreshments, making your trip enjoyable from start to finish.

5. **Family-Friendly**: Guided trips on the Columbia River are ideal for families or groups. Kids and adults alike will enjoy the adventure, the thrill of the catch, and the beauty of the surrounding landscapes.

### Plan Your Columbia River Fishing Adventure

From the powerful Chinook to the agile coho salmon and delectable Dungeness crab, the Columbia River offers a diverse range of fishing experiences. Whether you’re interested in a single-day guided trip or a multi-day Columbia River charter trip, there’s an option for every angler. Book your Columbia River fishing guide or charter trip today and experience the fishing adventure of a lifetime.

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**Columbia River and Its Tributaries: Premier Destinations for Guided Fishing Adventures**

The Columbia River is one of the most iconic and productive fisheries in North America. Spanning over 1,200 miles from the Canadian Rockies in British Columbia down to the Pacific Ocean, the Columbia River and its vast network of tributaries create a diverse and rich ecosystem that supports an incredible variety of fish species. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, the Columbia River and its tributaries offer a range of guided fishing opportunities that promise adventure, challenge, and the chance to reel in some of the most sought-after fish in the Pacific Northwest.

### Fishing on the Columbia River: A World-Class Experience

The Columbia River is known for its impressive runs of salmon and steelhead, drawing anglers from around the globe. Guided fishing trips on the Columbia River are popular for targeting species like Chinook salmon, coho salmon, sockeye salmon, and steelhead, each with its own peak seasons throughout the year. Whether you're fishing for the powerful spring Chinook, the hard-fighting steelhead, or the abundant fall salmon run, there are endless opportunities for success with the help of an experienced guide.

**Guided Fishing on the Columbia River: The Key to Success**  
Fishing guides on the Columbia River are invaluable resources for anglers looking to make the most of their fishing experience. These professionals have intimate knowledge of the river's ever-changing conditions, fish migration patterns, and the best fishing techniques for each season. Whether trolling, jigging, or drift fishing, guides provide the expertise needed to increase your chances of landing a trophy fish. 

By hiring a guide, you also gain access to top-tier equipment, local knowledge, and a perfectly planned fishing adventure, ensuring that your trip is as productive as it is enjoyable.

### Columbia River Tributaries: Hidden Gems for Fishing Enthusiasts

While the Columbia River itself offers world-class fishing, its many tributaries provide equally exciting opportunities for anglers. Some of the most notable tributaries include the Snake River, Deschutes River, Willamette River, Cowlitz River, and Klickitat River. Each of these rivers contributes to the Columbia River system and hosts its own thriving fish populations. 

**Snake River**  
A major tributary of the Columbia River, the Snake River is famous for its exceptional steelhead and salmon fishing. It boasts some of the longest steelhead and salmon runs in the country, offering guided fishing trips that take you through rugged, picturesque landscapes. The Snake River is particularly well-known for its fall Chinook and summer steelhead runs.

**Deschutes River**  
The Deschutes River, one of the most famous Columbia River tributaries, is a fly-fishing paradise. Known for its wild rainbow trout and summer steelhead, this river offers guided fly-fishing trips that attract anglers from around the world. The Deschutes River’s consistent flow, scenic canyons, and healthy fish population make it a premier destination for guided fishing adventures, especially for those looking to hone their fly-fishing skills.

**Willamette River**  
The Willamette River, which joins the Columbia River near Portland, Oregon, is another popular tributary known for its outstanding fishing opportunities. This river is a hotspot for winter steelhead, Chinook salmon, and coho salmon. Guided fishing trips on the Willamette offer the chance to fish for these prized species while enjoying the convenience of fishing close to urban areas like Portland and Salem.

**Cowlitz River**  
The Cowlitz River is one of the most productive tributaries of the Columbia River for salmon and steelhead. Anglers flock to the Cowlitz for its year-round fishing opportunities, with runs of coho, Chinook, and steelhead providing exciting action. Guided fishing trips on the Cowlitz are ideal for both novice and experienced anglers, offering the chance to catch trophy fish while exploring one of Washington State’s top rivers.

**Klickitat River**  
The Klickitat River, located in southern Washington, is another Columbia River tributary prized for its salmon and steelhead fishing. Guided fishing trips on the Klickitat offer a more remote and peaceful experience, as this lesser-known river provides abundant opportunities for catching wild steelhead and Chinook salmon. The rugged beauty of the Klickitat Valley adds to the appeal of fishing this scenic tributary.

### Why Book a Guided Fishing Trip on the Columbia River and Its Tributaries?

1. **Expert Guidance**: Fishing guides on the Columbia River and its tributaries offer unmatched knowledge of local conditions, fish behavior, and the most effective techniques. Whether you're fly fishing the Deschutes or trolling for Chinook on the Columbia, their expertise ensures you maximize your chances of success.

2. **Access to Prime Fishing Locations**: The Columbia River and its tributaries are vast, and finding the best fishing spots can be challenging for newcomers. Guided trips provide access to the most productive areas, saving you time and effort while increasing your chances of landing a big catch.

3. **All-Inclusive Experience**: Most guided fishing trips provide everything you need for a successful outing, including high-quality rods, reels, bait, and boats. You can focus on the thrill of the catch, while your guide handles all the logistics.

4. **Diverse Fishing Opportunities**: Whether you prefer fishing for salmon, steelhead, trout, or sturgeon, the Columbia River and its tributaries offer a wide range of species to target. Guided trips can be tailored to your specific interests and the season, ensuring that you have the best possible experience.

5. **Stunning Scenery**: Beyond the incredible fishing, the Columbia River and its tributaries are set in some of the most beautiful landscapes in the Pacific Northwest. From the rolling hills of the Snake River to the dramatic cliffs of the Deschutes, the scenery alone makes these trips unforgettable.

### Planning Your Columbia River Fishing Adventure

Whether you're chasing the legendary salmon of the Columbia River, casting for steelhead in its tributaries, or exploring fly-fishing opportunities on rivers like the Deschutes, a guided fishing trip is the best way to ensure a successful and memorable adventure. From the powerful currents of the Columbia to the tranquil waters of its tributaries, the fishing opportunities in this region are second to none. Book your guided fishing trip today and experience the thrill of fishing some of the finest waters in North America.

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