The Ultimate Seasonal Calendar: What Fish Are in the Columbia River Right Now?

If you are planning a trip to the Pacific Northwest, one question is likely at the top of your list: What fish are in the Columbia River during your visit?

The Columbia River is a legendary waterway, stretching through Columbia River, Oregon and Washington, offering some of the most diverse freshwater fishing in the world. Whether you are hunting for a massive Columbia River sturgeon or chasing the chrome-bright Columbia River steelhead, timing is everything.

 

 

At Columbia River Fishing Adventures, we live and breathe these waters. Our team of expert Columbia River fishing guides is here to ensure you’re in the right spot at the right time.

The Lifeblood of the Northwest: Understanding the Columbia River Ecosystem

Before diving into the specific seasons, it is essential to understand why the Columbia River is such a powerhouse for anglers. Flowing over 1,200 miles from the Canadian Rockies to the Pacific Ocean, this river acts as a massive “highway” for migratory fish.

When people ask what fish are in the Columbia River, they are often surprised to learn that it isn’t just one fishery, it’s a dozen fisheries in one. From the brackish waters of the Astoria Estuary (Buoy 10) to the churning tailraces of the Bonneville and The Dalles dams, each section of the river offers a unique habitat for different species at different times of the year.

Spring: The Return of the Kings (March – May)

Spring on the Columbia is synonymous with one thing: the Spring Chinook Salmon. For many local anglers and visitors alike, this is the “Super Bowl” of fishing. These fish are widely considered the finest-eating salmon in the world due to the high fat content they carry to sustain them on their long journey to the spawning grounds.

The Mighty Spring Chinook

The “Springer” run typically begins in March and peaks in April. These fish are chrome-bright, incredibly strong, and require technical precision to catch. As Columbia River fishing guides, we utilize specialized trolling techniques and back-bouncing to put our clients on these prized fish.

• Where to find them: Early in the season, the lower river near Portland and the confluence of the Willamette River are hotspots. As the water warms, the fish move toward the dams.
• The Experience: Hooking a 20-pound Springer is an adrenaline rush unlike any other. They are fast, powerful, and their meat is a culinary delicacy.

Steelhead and Walleye Bonuses

While the Chinook get the headlines, the spring also sees the tail end of the winter Columbia River steelhead run and the beginning of the summer run. Additionally, this is a prime window for walleye. As the water temperature rises into the 40s and 50s, walleye become increasingly active, moving into shallower flats to spawn.

Summer: The Grand Slam Season (June – August)

If you love variety and sunshine, summer is the time to visit Columbia River Oregon. This is the only time of year when you can realistically achieve a “Grand Slam”, catching three or more major species in a single day.

Summer Chinook: The “June Hogs”

In June, a second wave of Chinook enters the river. These are often referred to as “June Hogs” because of their massive size. These fish are headed for the upper reaches of the Columbia and provide spectacular mid-summer action.

Sockeye Salmon: The Summer Surprise

July often brings a massive influx of Sockeye Salmon. While smaller than Chinook, Sockeye are prized for their deep red meat and sheer numbers. In a good year, hundreds of thousands of Sockeye move past the dams, providing fast-paced action that is perfect for families.

The Peak of Columbia River Sturgeon

Summer is the undisputed king of Columbia River sturgeon fishing. While most of the river is managed as a catch-and-release fishery to preserve these prehistoric giants, the action is non-stop.

• The Giants: It is not uncommon to hook sturgeon ranging from 3 feet to over 8 feet long.
• The Fight: Sturgeon are known for their acrobatic jumps and long, powerful runs. Fighting an 8-foot fish is a full-body workout that you will never forget.

Summer Steelhead

The “summer-run” steelhead start appearing in June and stay throughout the summer. These fish are known for their surface-oriented behavior and aggressive strikes, making them a favorite for those who enjoy active fishing styles.

Fall: The Mighty “Upriver Brights” (September – November)

When the leaves begin to turn, the Columbia River transforms into the most productive salmon fishery on the planet. The “Fall Run” is the largest migration of the year, bringing a mix of Chinook and Coho salmon in staggering numbers.

The Buoy 10 Phenomenon

In late August and early September, the action starts at the mouth of the river near Astoria. This is the famous “Buoy 10” fishery. Here, the fish are coming straight from the saltwater, meaning they are at their strongest and most aggressive.

Fall Chinook and Coho

As the run moves upriver, we target the “Upriver Brights”, Chinook that remain silver and firm even miles inland. Alongside them are the Coho (Silver) salmon, known for their erratic fighting style and willingness to strike lures.

The Legendary B-Run Steelhead

The fall also marks the arrival of the B-Run Steelhead. These fish are specifically headed for the Clearwater and Snake River tributaries but pass through the mainstem Columbia during October and November. B-Run fish are significantly larger than standard steelhead, often weighing 15 to 20 pounds.

Winter: The Season of the Trophy (December – February)

Many people think fishing shuts down when the temperature drops, but for Columbia River Fishing Adventures, winter is one of our favorite times to be on the water.

Winter Steelhead

Winter steelhead are the “ghosts” of the river. They are elusive, beautiful, and often larger than the summer runs. Fishing for them requires patience and expert knowledge of the deep, slow-moving holes where they hold during the cold months.

World-Class Walleye Fishing

Winter is arguably the best time to catch a “Wall-Hanger” walleye. The Columbia River is home to some of the largest walleye in the United States. During the winter, these fish congregate in deep structures. While you have to brave the cold, the chance of catching a 10-to-12-pound walleye is at its highest during this window.

Winter Sturgeon

Even in the winter, the Columbia River sturgeon are present. They move into the deeper, more stable waters of the Columbia River Gorge. It’s a quieter time on the river, offering a peaceful but productive experience for those looking to avoid the summer crowds.

Here’s a client review from a recent fishing trip

Why Local Expertise Matters

Understanding what fish are in the Columbia River is only half the battle. The Columbia is a massive, powerful river with complex tides, dangerous wing walls, and shifting sandbars.

Safety and Success

Navigating these waters safely requires a professional vessel and years of experience. Our Columbia River fishing guides are licensed, insured, and equipped with the latest technology to ensure you are safe while you’re on the fish.

The Right Gear for the Job

Different species require vastly different gear. One day, we might be using heavy-duty rods and 80-pound test for sturgeon, and the next, we are using sensitive side-drifting rods for steelhead. We provide all the top-tier gear, bait, and tackle needed for your specific trip.

FAQ: What Fish Are in the Columbia River?

What is the best time of year to catch a trophy sturgeon?

While you can catch them year-round, the summer months (June–August) offer the most consistent action and the best weather for handling these large fish.

Do I need to be an expert to fish the Columbia?

Absolutely not! We love teaching beginners. Our guides will show you everything from how to hold the rod to the best way to land a fish. We make sure everyone, from kids to seasoned pros, has a great time.

What is the difference between a Chinook and a Coho?

Chinook (King) salmon are larger, have black gums, and are known for long, powerful runs. Coho (Silver) salmon are smaller, have white gums, and are famous for their “acrobatic” fights, often jumping out of the water repeatedly.

Is walleye fishing good in the Columbia River, Oregon?

Yes! The Columbia is a premier walleye destination. The stretch of river between Boardman and The Dalles is particularly famous for producing trophy-sized fish, especially in the late winter and early spring.

How do I know which license to buy?

Fishing licenses can be purchased through the Oregon (ODFW) or Washington (WDFW) websites. Since the river is a border, many areas allow either license, but you must have the Columbia River Basin Endorsement. We recommend checking with us a few days before your trip so we can tell you exactly which one you need based on where the fish are biting!

Book Your Fishing Adventure Today!

The Columbia River is a bucket-list destination for any angler. No matter the season, there is always something biting. Whether you want the table fare of a Spring Chinook, the prehistoric power of a Columbia River sturgeon, or the technical challenge of a winter walleye, we have the expertise to make it happen.

Don’t leave your memories to chance. Join the best Columbia River fishing guides for a day of tight lines and big smiles.

Ready to get on the water? Contact Columbia River Fishing Adventures to check our availability and book your trip today. Let’s go fishing!