Types of Fish to Catch On Your Columbia River Fishing Trip

Popular Columbia River Game Fish

Most people who visit Oreon for fishing are interested in catching popular species like salmon, trout, and sturgeon. Luckily, Columbia River fishing has great options throughout the year.

Though it is relatively easy to catch them, it is important to know that the Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife has very strict regulations regarding the fish. For example, what times of the year they can be caught, how big they need to be, and other things that can affect your catch. 

If you’re unsure of all the regulations, you can hire a local guide to help you navigate all the rules. When you hire a fishing charter in Oregon, they often come with a local guide who can help you fish safely.

Chinook salmon

There’s a reason why Chinook salmon is known as the “King” of salmon – it is the largest of all salmon varieties. You can find them in the Columbia River in the spring, summer, and fall seasons. Chinook salmon are often at their largest during the summer, but you’ll find more to catch in the fall. 

Chinook salmon is among the tastiest fish out there, so they’re a “must catch” if you’re coming to Columbia River!

Coho salmon

You’ll begin to see some coho salmon intermingling with chinook salmon in the summer, but fall is where they really start to pick up in number. If you want to fish for coho salmon, Columbia River is undoubtedly the best place to fish.

Coho salmon are a little shy when trying to lure them in, so you will have to be more patient with this fish.

Sockeye salmon

If you’re fishing for salmon in the summer on the Columbia River, it is likely that you’ll pick up one or two Sockeye salmon. With red bodies, these eye-catching fish are a great way to open the salmon season if you’re in town!

Steelhead

The Steelhead is among the biggest and most exciting catches you can make on the Columbia River. If you want to catch this beautiful fish, you’ll have better chances in the summer when they have higher numbers.

Just make sure you’re ready to put the work in to reel this strong fish in!

Trout

Trout might be Oregon’s most popular fish. And because there are so many varieties in the Columbia River, you can catch a trout all year round.

When fishing in the Columbia River, make sure you check what varieties are available and where you can find them. There may also be some additional regulations regarding fishing for trout in Oregon.

Sturgeon

There are two varieties of sturgeon you can find in the Columbia River: the White sturgeon and the Green sturgeon. While you can easily catch a sturgeon in Oregon all year long, you’re more likely to come across the White variety. These exceptionally long and bony fish make for an exciting catch on any fishing trip! 

Smallmouth bass

These small fish can be found up and down the Columbia River. If you’re familiar with fishing for Largemouth bass, Smallmouth bass should be easy. You’ll find that many of the same tips for catching Largemouth bass also apply to catch its smaller cousin. They are harder to catch in the winter and tend to crowd around ledges and boulders. If you plan on catching some Smallmouth bass, it will be useful to use smaller lures than usual. 

Why Hire a Fishing Charter 

It can be a complicated task to organize a fishing trip on the Columbia River. That’s true whether it’s your first time or your 100th time. Finding the right boat, organizing the right permit, putting together all your equipment, and finding the best spots to fish are all complicated tasks. That’s why we recommend that you hire a Columbia River fishing charter to make your trip easier and simpler.

Advantages of Hiring a Fishing Charter

With a hired fishing charter, many of the things you’ll need to do are taken care of. For example, you won’t have to shop around for the best price on a boat – instead, you’ll have full access to a boat that’s given in the package. Equipment, lures, and even bags are also provided. Beyond that, you’ll love having a local seasoned guide to help you find the best fishing spots and help you make the catch you want!

Fishing charters on the Columbia River are popular throughout the year. So don’t miss out on your chance and book one now.