Columbia River Fall Fishing
The Columbia River reopened for fall salmon fishing on September 19th, four days earlier than planned. We took advantage of the extra days, and enjoyed some great days on the river. Today 3 additional Keeper Sturgeon dates were announced, adding more fishing opportunities on the river.
Columbia River Gorge Fall Salmon
The Columbia River Gorge provides some nice Fall Salmon opportunities near the mouth of the Deschutes River and the mouth of Klickitat River. This fishery is my favorite of the year for so many reasons. Although we’re only about an hour east of Portland, the landscape and climate change as we move east of the Cascades. The Columbia River Gorge is well known for its waterfalls, hiking trails, various water sports, and multiple fishing opportunities. Experience a fall day of salmon fishing and create memories with your family or friends.
Portland Area Fall Salmon
In the Portland area we’re fishing for fall salmon on the Columbia River and the Lewis River. Fishing has been good, with fish averaging about 18-20 lbs. We landed a 30 lb fish over the weekend, which was pretty fun. On the Columbia River we can retain native and hatchery Chinook, and hatchery Coho. Only hatchery Chinook and Coho can be retained on the Lewis right now, and while we may have to release native Chinook, there are a lot of fish in the river which provides an action-packed day. Beginning October 1st native Chinook can also be retained, making it a very popular fishery in October and November.
Columbia River Keeper Sturgeon
Today the Columbia River Compact announced three additional Keeper Sturgeon dates on the Columbia River. Sturgeon retention will be allowed on September 26th, 29th, and October 3rd, from the Wauna powerlines upstream to Bonneville Dam. While we enjoy sturgeon fishing on the Columbia River year-round, Keeper Sturgeon days are special. The legal catch size for sturgeon is 44-50”, measured from the nose of the fish to the fork of the tail, which is a lot of fish! What could be better than battling a huge fish and then taking it home at the end of the day? The firm, white, boneless flesh can be prepared in countless ways… from smoked sturgeon to fried sturgeon to sturgeon kabobs on the grill.
Fall fishing is in full swing and there are many days of fishing ahead. Contact us with any questions you may have or to book your trip. We’re always happy to help.
COVID Precautions
Lance Fisher Fishing is taking COVID very seriously. Preparations have been made to be able to allow all of us to experience the 2020 fishing season. We’re thankful for the outdoors and that it is one of the safer places to be right now. That being said, we still want to be vigilant and respectful. You will need to bring a face covering with you. You can bring what you typically use, or purchase one of the many options readily available on Amazon. We have lots of room in our boats and many times 6’ of distancing is no problem. For the times that people and guides must get close, simply pull the gaiter or mask up. Know that part of being good at what we do is providing clean boats for your trip. While this is already SOP for our operation, know that extra steps are being taken so that we can enjoy our fishing experience and remain safe.