Everything About Walleye Fishing on the Columbia River

Crazy about walleye fishing? The Columbia River is believed to be the best walleye fishing spot in the Pacific Northwest. That means you’re sure to find excellent catches up and down this magnificent river. And the great thing about walleye fishing on the Columbia River is that you can catch them year-round! You can schedule a trip whenever you want and find some good catches in the waters. 

So, whether you’re fishing for fun or fishing to eat, this blog is for you. You’ll need to know all this crucial information that can help you make those catches. From where to go, how to do it, and how to spot the walleye – we’ve got it all for you! So keep reading to find out everything you need to know about Columbia River walleye fishing.

All About Walleye

The walleye is one of the most popular freshwater gaming fish, named after its distinctive eye position. Both eyes on a walleye point outward – as if staring at opposite walls, hence the name. These unique eyes give walleyes a characteristic shine in the dark, making it easier for anglers to spot and catch them. 

Walleyes are sometimes called pickerel or yellow pike, but they are the same species no matter what you call them. They can grow to be 30 inches in length and 20 lbs in weight. But there have been numerous records broken by walleyes found in the Columbia River.

Columbia River Walleye Fishing Tips

Because of a walleye’s distinct eyes, catching them takes a little bit of strategy. Walleye have excellent vision in low lights, and they often take advantage of this by hunting for prey only when conditions are darker. This is when their competitors will often lay low, so walleyes have the best position.

Anglers looking to catch walleye should know about their eyes so that they can plan their trips accordingly. Seasoned experts will usually look out for what they call “walleye chop,”, referring to winds of about 6 to 16 mph. In these conditions, the water is rougher and darker. These conditions suit walleye really well, so it becomes easier to catch them there. But even without walleye chop conditions, you can still find walleye in areas that are overcast, rough, or by fishing for them at dusk and dawn.

But if this all sounds too complicated for you, there are loads of options for hiring a Columbia River fishing charter to make the trip more manageable and convenient.

Walleye Fishing Regulations

Fishing for walleye is generally permitted on the Columbia River year-round. But the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife still has numerous regulations to protect both the fish and you, as well as the river itself. Typically, there is no bag limit for walleye, unlike other fish like salmon. However, it is important to check regularly with the ODFW to make sure your information is up to date.

You will also need to acquire a license in Oregon before you can start fishing on the Columbia River. You can check this page for more information on who needs a permit, how much it will be, and how to get it.

Because of the many regulations that surround walleye fishing on the Columbia River, many people prefer to hire a fishing charter service. These fishing charters take care of these things for them. Fishing charters are an excellent choice for beginners and experienced anglers alike because they make things much easier. But besides understanding regulations in the area, fishing charters have so many benefits!

Why You Should Hire a Fishing Charter

If this is your first time hearing about fishing charters, you might be wondering, “what is a fishing charter?” 

Fishing charters offer a more convenient fishing experience to groups and individuals. Though it typically differs from company to company, that generally includes providing a fishing boat, the equipment, bait, and a fishing charter guide. They usually also clean and pack your fish. Some even offer photography services, so you always remember your trip!

By providing these things, you are assured of a stress-free and convenient fishing trip. Say goodbye to worrying about hiring your own boat, finding all the right equipment and bait, and taking care of things on your own. Instead, you only have to do one step to get the fishing experience you want.

And because fishing charter services have specific packages for specific fish and locations, you can choose what you want to fish with a click of a button. For walleye fishing on the Columbia River, you will have an experienced guide with you to help you out along the way. From selecting the best spots to fish to choosing the right bait, your fishing guide will make catching walleye so easy!

So what are you waiting for? Pastime Fishing Adventures offers several packages for groups looking to experience fishing on the Columbia River. Book a fishing charter today to reserve your spot!