columbia river

salmon, sturgeon and crabbing

The Columbia River plays a vital role in providing life to the greater Pacific Northwest. For over 10,000 years now humans have gathered on her banks dependent on the bounty she provides. Every year anadramos fish such as Chinook, Coho, and Sockeye Salmon, return from the Pacific Ocean to the fresh water systems where they were born to start this cycle all over again. Steelhead and White Sturgeon return as well and pattern a similar lifecycle to the mighty Columbia River Salmon and provide angling opportunities second to none. Join me on a fishing trip you wont soon forget. From pulling crab pots for delicious Dungeness Crab, trolling cut plug herring at the famous Buoy 10 for Chinook and Coho Salmon, and action packed White S turgeon fishing, the Lower Columbia is hard to beat.

buoy 10 salmon fishing

There is no better Salmon fishing in the world than at the mouth of the Columbia River near Astoria, Oregon during the Buoy 10 salmon season in August and September. Salmon arrive every year congregating in the lower river devouring bait fish as they prepare for their journey upstream. Fishermen also flock to the Lower Columbia River with high hopes at filling their coolers with fillets of salmon. August is typically the best month for targeting Chinook or “King” Salmon with Coho or “Silver” Salmon arriving in early september and comprising most of the catch through the end of the season. Trips typically start on the docks of the Hammond Marina near the rivers mouth where we will depart for a full day of Salmon fishing or at least until our daily catch limit is meet. You will need a valid Fishing License with Salmon Harvest Tag, Rain Gear and warm clothing are also a must, as well as a lunch. Top of the line fishing equipment f rom Shimano, G.Loomis, Gamakatsu, and Puget Sound Herring will be provided.

Buoy 10 Salmon Fishing - $1,000 (2-4 Anglers)

ASTORIA STURGEON FISHING

Catch and Release sturgeon fishing the Lower Columbia River has gained in popularity because of the action provided by incredibly hard fighting fish in shallow water. Sturgeon between 4-6 feet are common daily and will test any anglers skills. Fishing for Sturgeon takes place in the months of June and July on the Lower Columbia, some years the Department of Fish and Wildlife open a restricted catch and keep season until quotas are meet. These short seasons open to Sturgeon Retention will be posted as advised but primarily plan on these trips being catch and release. Fish the tidal channels and islands above Tongue Point or the tidal flats on the Desdamona Sands with light tackle for these prehistoric beasts. Trips start at the Astoria East Mooring Basin Dock where we depart for a full day fishing. You will need a valid Fishing License with Harvest Tag, Rain Gear! and warm clothing are also a must, as well as a lunch. Top of the line fishing equipment from Shimano, G.Loomis, Gamakatsu, and fresh bait anchovies and sand shrimp will be provided.

Astoria Sturgeon Fishing - $1,000 (2 - 4 anglers)

dungeness crab

Pulling a string of crab pots loaded with fresh Dungeness Crab and sorting through the bounty for only the largest male crabs to keep makes for an exciting day on the water. Crabbing trips are great for large groups and families to get out on the Columbia River for just a few hours to harvest their own dinner. These trips are arranged according to the tide and typically start 3 hours before high tide at the Hammond Marina. Once you have arrived back to the dock with a boat load of crab your catch will be cooked and clean for your transportation home. You will need a valid Shellfish License, rain gear, and a cooler left in your vehicle at the boat ramp to transport your catch. Crabbing trips are offered September, October and November depending on weather and tides.

Crabbing Trips - $600 (2 - 4 Anglers)

Included

Professional Guide with top of the line fishing equipment, tackle, and bait. A comfortable clean boat with a fully licensed and insured captain, life jackets and safety equipment, proper care and handling of your fish with cleaning and processing services at the end of the day.

Not Included

Valid Oregon Fishing license and Salmon/Steelhead Tag, waders, or rubber boots and rain gear to keep you dry even on nice sunny days, snacks and beverages for a full day on the water, a cooler to transport your catch back home, and gratuity for your guide. (typically 15-20% of total trip cost).