The Columbia River Compact just announced another opener that begins tomorrow. The Columbia River will be open for Summer Chinook and Steelhead fishing from July 16th through July 31st. This decision lengthens the Summer Chinook opener that was scheduled to close today, and re-opens Summer Steelhead, which was closed last month to protect the Sockeye Salmon run. Now that the Sockeye have moved farther upriver, we’re excited to be back out on the Columbia River to chase some silver.
Summer fishing on the Columbia River can provide a fun experience for everyone on board, especially when we’re able to fish for both Summer Chinook and Steelhead during the same trip. We target Steelhead with a Spin n Glo and coonshrimp combination, while Chinook prefer a Kwikfish and sardine combination. Sometimes we’ll have half of the group fishing for Chinook while the other half fish for Steelhead. We’ll switch it up depending on conditions and what’s working to bring fish to the boat. However you look at it, it’s a fun way to spend a day with your friends or family.
The Columbia River is open from Tongue Point upstream to Pasco, Washington, which allows us to launch from the Portland area and also farther west toward Astoria. Bag limits are 2 adult fish, one of which may be a Steelhead. Only hatchery Steelhead and Chinook Salmon may be retained. 2 jack Chinook Salmon may also be retained. We have some warmer weather heading our way over the next week, making it a great time to be on the water.
Let us know if you have any questions or would like to book a trip. We’re always happy to help.