Columbia River Fishing Guide2024-06-10T13:30:54+00:00

Salmon, Sturgeon & Walleye

Columbia River Fishing Guide

Columbia River Fishing Guide

A great trip starts with a great fishing guide!

Your fishing guide takes care of the details. You reel ’em in.

Columbia River fishing guide's boat with motor and fishing rod on the water.

We Guide for Salmon, Sturgeon & Walleye on the Columbia River

Columbia River Fishing Adventures is one of the longest-running, most experienced Columbia River fishing guides in the region. Buddy Dupell has been guiding for salmon, sturgeon and walleye on the Columbia for over 20 years. Join the action and book a trip with one of the most experienced fishing guides you’ll meet!

Salmon Fishing on the Columbia River

Fishing in Portland, Astoria, and Bonneville Dam

Sturgeon Fishing on the Columbia River

One of the largest fish you’ll ever catch!

Walleye Fishing on the Columbia River

The Columbia is a world-class walleye fishery.

Salmon Fishing Guide on the Columbia River

The Columbia River, which is located in Oregon, is one of the best and most well-known salmon fisheries in the world. In all of Oregon, Columbia River Fishing Adventures offers breathtaking angling fishing adventures. You won’t find finer fishing anywhere from the mouth of the Columbia in Astoria and Buoy 10, to Portland and areas nearby the metro area, up to Bonneville Dam. There are many opportunities to catch some of the most sought-after fish in the entire United States—Pacific salmon—as the Columbia River flows for more than 1,200 miles.

Salmon flows throughout the spring, summer, and fall provide a plethora of runs all year round. The larger “June Hogs” start their run in the summer, while the smaller “Spring Chinook” reach the Columbia River in March. As the fall season progresses, both Chinook and Coho can be spotted swimming upstream to their natural breeding areas along the river. Our salmon fishing charters will take you to the best spots to catch fish, but you need make travel plans and reserve your position well in advance. Due to their extensive river knowledge, the top fishing guides frequently have full schedules. No matter what season best suits your schedule, don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Salmon Fishing in Portland, Astoria, and Bonneville Dam

Salmon fishing charter on the Columbia River

expert columbia river fishing guides lead sturgeon fishing trips on the Columbia River

Sturgeon fishing charters on the Columbia River

Meet Your Sturgeon Fishing Guide

The sturgeon, a fish that dates back to the dinosaur era, is well known to inhabit the lower Columbia River. You can put your fishing prowess to the test against the majestic sturgeon with the help of our guided fishing charter. The Columbia provides year-round chances for catch and release as well as seasonal opportunities for catch and keepers (sometimes known as “sturgeon keepers”) of fish.

In Portland, the spring is the most popular time to go on a guided sturgeon fishing charter. The summer in Astoria, when you may go sturgeon hunting for trophies of various sizes, is another highly popular time of year. These fish monsters move near Bonneville Dam as the summer fishing season for sturgeons gives way to the fall fishing season.

Fishing for sturgeon may be really exciting. Sturgeon are frequently caught in shallower areas because, when hooked, they are known to burst out of the water in impressive displays of strength. Sturgeons are frequently among the biggest fish most fisherman will ever catch, making them a trip not to be missed.

Walleye Fishing Guide on the Columbia

Large walleye can be found in the Columbia River. Very large.  There are customers that come to us from all over the world in hopes of catching a monster walleye fit for hanging on the wall. The record-breaking walleye, which weighed 14 pounds, 7 ounces, was captured in 2010. Definitely a great fish!

Large walleye feed during half of the year by swimming near to the bottom in the Columbia River’s flat regions. In 20 to 30 feet of water, we frequently discover walleye that weigh more than four pounds. The summer, when it’s usually warm and dry, is the ideal season for walleye fishing. Walleye fishing is common from August through October below Bonneville Dam. Walleye fishing in the Columbia is plentiful and makes a great family fishing trip. Our walleye guided fishing trips often catch a large number of fish per person each day.

However, walleye fishing isn’t just a summertime activity! The month of January offers excellent walleye fishing, and between January and the end of February, many trophy walleye fish have been captured. Just be ready for brisk conditions with a lot of wind and rain.

Our fishing guides have actually been catching walleye for decades. Walleye fishing is done in regions where there are lots of them and they are big. Come out on a fantastic walleye fishing excursion with us!

Four men proudly display their catch of Walleye fish on a boat during a fishing trip on the Columbia River

Walleye fishing is great near Rufus, Oregon

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Salmon Fishing at the Lower Columbia River

The lower Columbia River, particularly the stretch near Astoria, Oregon, is a premier destination for salmon fishing, attracting anglers of all skill levels. August marks the beginning of the [...]

Catch a Fish Larger than You!

Imagine the thrill of hooking a big one

Columbia River Fishing Guide: Your Adventure on the River

Welcome to the majestic Columbia River in Oregon, a true paradise for anglers worldwide. As a seasoned fishing guide with over 20 years of experience, I’ve spent countless days navigating these waters, assisting clients in catching salmon, sturgeon, and walleye. This comprehensive guide offers an insider’s view into the world of Columbia River fishing, ensuring your next fishing expedition is nothing short of spectacular.

The Rich History of Fishing Guides on the Columbia River

The Columbia River, with its abundant and diverse fish populations, has a long-standing tradition of fishing. Fishing guides have been a part of this river’s culture for generations, dating back to when Native Americans first shared their knowledge of these waters. Today, guides like myself continue this legacy, combining traditional techniques with modern technology to offer an unparalleled fishing experience.

Why Hire a Fishing Guide on the Columbia River?

Hiring a fishing guide is more than just finding the best spots. It’s about learning the river’s nuances, understanding the behavior of different fish species, and enhancing your fishing techniques. A guide offers local expertise, equipment, and safety, ensuring a productive and enjoyable trip regardless of your skill level.

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

Prime Locations for Salmon Fishing

  • Astoria: At the river’s mouth, Astoria offers fantastic opportunities for catching Chinook and Coho salmon.
  • Buoy 10: This area is renowned for being one of the best salmon fishing spots in the world.
  • Portland: Near the city, the Columbia River provides excellent salmon fishing, especially for Chinook.
  • Bonneville Dam: A hotspot for salmon, especially during their migration seasons.

For more detailed information on these locations, I recommend visiting Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife.

The Three Major Salmon Fishing Seasons

  • Spring: Marked by the return of Chinook salmon, offering some of the year’s best fishing experiences.
  • Summer: Summer is the season for June hogs, and Chinook runs provide consistent action.
  • Fall: The river comes alive with Coho and Chinook, creating a sport fishing paradise.

For detailed seasonal information, check out Columbia River Fishing Seasons.

Sturgeon Fishing: A Unique Challenge

Catch-and-Keep vs. Catch-and-Release

  • Catch-and-Keep Season: Usually occurs in May each year, with specific dates and size limits.
  • Catch-and-Release: Available year-round, offering a sustainable way to enjoy sturgeon fishing.

For more information on regulations and seasons, visit ODFW Sturgeon Seasons.

Why Opt for a Guided Sturgeon Fishing Trip?

A guided trip maximizes your chances of success. Guides know the best spots, the right bait, and the techniques to land these giants, ensuring an unforgettable experience.

Walleye: The Overlooked Treasure of the Columbia

The Columbia River also boasts some of the best walleye fishing, particularly in the river’s northern stretch. Guided trips for walleye offer not just the chance to catch fish but also to learn effective methods for targeting this elusive species.

Record-Breaking Walleye Catches

The largest walleye ever caught in the Columbia River was an impressive specimen. Details and documentation of this remarkable catch can be found here.

The Responsibilities of a Fishing Guide

As your guide, my responsibility extends beyond finding fish. I ensure safety, provide equipment, and share knowledge. Remember, every angler must have their own fishing license, which can be purchased online at ODFW Licensing.

Conclusion: Your Columbia River Fishing Guide is Your Gateway to an Unforgettable Adventure

Fishing on the Columbia River is not just an activity; it’s an experience enriched by history, nature, and the thrill of the catch. As your guide, I’m dedicated to making your fishing adventure memorable. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, the Columbia River has something to offer everyone.

For more information and to book your next fishing trip, contact us at Columbia River Fishing Adventures.

Remember, “Columbia River fishing guide” is not just a search phrase; it’s your ticket to an extraordinary fishing adventure!

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