Salmon Fishing Guide Charter in Portland Oregon
Portland is Oregon’s largest city as it sits on both the Willamette and Columbia Rivers. With hundreds of thousands of Salmon making their way through the rivers surrounding the Portland area each year, there are many great fishing opportunities throughout the year. We get three runs of Salmon each year, Spring, Summer, and Fall Chinook. All three of these runs offer great fishing opportunities. From the mouth of the Columbia in Astoria, Oregon all the way to the mouth of the Deschutes River in Rufus, these fish are on the move. Knowing where the fish are and what tackle to use is key to a successful day on the water. At the end of our day of fishing after pictures are taken, I will fillet and bag your day’s catch for your convenience. Portland offers great lodging opportunities as well as many other activities to do once we are off the water.The nearby Columbia River Gorge is a must see attraction before you leave Portland. Salmon season in Portland is a wonderful time of year and we look forward to seeing you soon!
Spring Chinook Fishing
Spring Chinook are some of the best Salmon to fish for, these are the fish that everyone wants to catch. Spring Chinook are the most sought after of their species with fillets at the market going for upwards of $35 a pound. These Salmon are so popular due to the high fat and oil content they provide. March is when we begin to see these fish returning to the rivers with peek season being in April. Spring Chinook are aggressive fish and put up a great fight. These are some of the most fun fish to fight as they are unpredictable.
We offer Spring Chinook Fishing trips for up to six people at a time. While fishing for Spring Chinook we will be anywhere from the Multnomah Channel near Sauvie Island in Portland all the way to the heart of downtown. During these trips we will be trolling either 360 flashers and spinners or herring, however, depending on water conditions it is also possible we will be on anchor fishing plugs and spinners. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to catch some Columbia River Gold, book your trip for the upcoming season now!
Summer Salmon Fishing
Summer Salmon fishing typically begins around June and will go through mid July. This is a great time to fish, the weather is usually great and the water conditions are favorable. Summer Salmon are the largest of the Columbia River Salmon, they are often referred to as “June Hogs”. The limit is usually one fish per person this time of year. They put up a heck of a fight and often jump out of the water multiple times.
We will more than likely be fishing on anchor for Summer Salmon, due to high water flows from the snow melt. Plugs and spinners are usually the lures of choice on anchor when looking for a reaction bite. The bite and the fight that June Hogs bring to the table are epic!
Fall Chinook Fishing
Fall chinook fishing in Oregon is the Super Bowl of all our salmon fisheries. This is our biggest and most popular fishery of the year. Our Fall Chinook season starts in August and will remain very good all the way through October. We start our season in Astoria, Oregon and work our way up river following the big push of salmon up the Columbia. We typically end our season either fishing below Bonneville Dam or fishing the mouth of the Deschutes River. These are both holding areas for Salmon!
Trolling is the name of the game when it comes to our Fall Chinook. The water is warm this time of year, so being mobile and covering water is essential in the Fall! In Astoria where we start our season it is primarily a bait fishery. Trolling herring and anchovies is the key when Salmon are fresh out of the saltwater. Once we leave Astoria we troll 3.5 spinners behind Pro-Troll flashers for the rest of the season. This is a great time of year to be on the water, be sure to book your trip today!
Salmon Fishing Season Notes
Getting to Know Salmon Fishing Portland Oregon
Portland, Oregon is a mecca for salmon fishing enthusiasts, drawing anglers from far and wide throughout the year. The allure lies in the abundance and diversity of salmon species that migrate through the region’s rivers. From the mighty Chinook to the elusive coho, the waters around Portland teem with these prized fish.
The Columbia River, a major artery flowing through the area, is a salmon highway. Millions of salmon journey upstream to spawn, creating a feast for anglers. The fishing season is long, with different species running at various times of the year. Whether it’s the thrill of catching a trophy Chinook in the spring or the challenge of landing a feisty coho in the fall, Portland offers something for every salmon fishing aficionado.
Beyond the abundant fish populations, Portland’s natural beauty adds to the appeal. The stunning landscapes, including the Columbia River Gorge, provide a picturesque backdrop for unforgettable fishing experiences. The city offers a vibrant atmosphere with a strong fishing culture, making it a welcoming destination for anglers from all walks of life.
How is Spring Chinook Fishing in Portland, Oregon?
From March to June, Spring Chinook fishing in Portland, Oregon, is a thrilling experience for anglers. This period marks the peak season for these prized fish as they embark on their annual migration up the Columbia and Willamette Rivers. The Columbia River, typically opening for Chinook fishing in late March, provides anglers an excellent opportunity to catch these magnificent fish. The fishing season in Columbia often lasts until early April, which is contingent upon fish counts, which are carefully monitored to ensure sustainable fishing practices.
As the season on the Columbia River winds down, the focus shifts to the Willamette River, extending the fishing excitement into May and even June. The Willamette River presents diverse fishing opportunities, catering to various angling preferences. From the fast-paced action near the river mouth to the more tranquil atmosphere in the upper reaches, there is something for everyone. Anglers utilize techniques to target these large, powerful fish, including trolling, bait fishing, and jigging, each offering unique challenges and rewards.
Spring Chinook are renowned for their impressive size and fighting ability, making them a coveted catch for experienced and novice anglers. The thrill of battling a robust Chinook, known for its strength and tenacity, adds an exhilarating dimension to the fishing experience.
Additionally, the chance to land a trophy-sized fish amidst the stunning natural surroundings of Portland enhances the adventure, providing a picturesque backdrop of lush greenery and flowing waters.
Fishing in the Willamette River not only offers the excitement of the catch but also allows anglers to immerse themselves in the serene and scenic beauty of the Pacific Northwest. The region’s rich biodiversity and the river’s dynamic ecosystem create an engaging environment where wildlife sightings and the tranquility of nature complement the fishing activity.
Overall, Spring Chinook fishing in Portland during this period is not just about the sport; it’s about embracing the entire experience. From anticipating the first bite to the adrenaline-pumping fight and the satisfaction of a successful catch, every moment contributes to an unforgettable adventure. Whether fishing from a boat or the riverbank, the combination of skill, patience, and Oregon’s natural beauty makes Spring Chinook fishing a truly remarkable and memorable pursuit.
How is Fishing for June Hogs in Portland, Oregon?
June Hogs are the legendary summer Chinook salmon that migrate up the Columbia River in June and July.
These fish are renowned for their size and fighting prowess, making them a coveted catch for anglers.
Portland offers prime access to the Columbia River, putting anglers in the heart of June Hog territory. While the fishing window is relatively short, the excitement is intense. These massive fish are often found near the river’s mouth and in deeper channels, requiring specialized techniques and equipment. Trolling with large plugs or downriggers is a popular method to target these behemoths.
Landing a June Hog is a testament to an angler’s skill and patience. The experience is unforgettable, and the stories shared among fishing enthusiasts often become local legends. While fishing can be challenging, the potential rewards make it an adventure worth pursuing for any serious salmon angler.
How is Fall Salmon Fishing in Portland, Oregon?
Fall salmon fishing in Portland, Oregon, from August to November, is a dynamic and exciting time for anglers. The arrival of cooler weather signals the beginning of the coho salmon run, a species known for its spirited fight. The Chinook salmon also go upstream as the season progresses, providing anglers with various targets.
The Columbia River is the main attraction during these months. The lower river offers excellent opportunities for trolling and jigging for both coho and Chinook. As the fall deepens, fishing often shifts to the upper river, where anglers can employ various techniques, including bait fishing and spinning.
Hiring a professional fishing guide for Chinook and salmon fishing in Portland is an intelligent decision. These experts possess in-depth knowledge of the river’s changing conditions, fish behavior, and the best fishing spots. They have the right equipment and techniques to maximize your chances of catching a trophy fish.
Guides can save you time and frustration by taking you directly to productive fishing areas. Their local expertise ensures you’re fishing at the optimal times and using the most effective methods. Whether a seasoned angler or a beginner, a guide can provide valuable tips and instruction, enhancing your overall fishing experience.