Columbia & Willamette River Spring Chinook Salmon Fishing
March kicks off the Columbia River Spring Chinook Salmon fishing season. Springers—particularly Columbia River Springers—are some of the most valued Chinook salmon, and for good reason! Their higher omega-3 fatty acid content makes them healthier and tastier than their fall-season counterparts. And by tastier, I mean to say that Spring Chinook Salmon are some of the tastiest salmon in the world. Try it for yourself, you won’t be disappointed! While this fishery usually only lasts through the first week of April, the end of the Columbia fishery coincides with the beginning of the Willamette River run.
Beginning in April, the Willamette River Spring Chinook Salmon fishery is very temperature dependent, with good fishing lasting well through May. However, in recent years, good fishing has lasted until the end of June. As a general rule, this is dependent on water temperature. When fishing here I keep you moving throughout the day, stopping by numerous pinnacles and shelves along the river. These areas are where the Spring Chinook often seem to enjoy hanging out and grabbing a bite to eat. It’s an enjoyable trip down the river, with a variety of locations and techniques to keep you on your toes. For bait, we fish herrings, prawns, plugs and eggs. Techniques vary from trolling to bouncing. Needless to say, this fishery never gets boring!
For more information on each of these fisheries visit the links below. Of course you’re always more than welcome to send us a request. I’d love to help you find an answer to whatever question you may have.
Columbia River Spring Chinook Salmon Fishing
Willamette River Spring Chinook Salmon Fishing
For other Salmon fishing options, visit my Salmon fishing homepage.
If you have any questions, feel free to call or contact us.