Oregon Salmon Fishing

chinook identifier
The Columbia River is one of the most popular salmon fishing destinations in the world. Every year, millions of salmon return to the river to spawn, providing anglers with a chance to catch some of the most prized fish in the Pacific Northwest.

Oregon is home to some of the best salmon fishing on the Columbia River. The state's diverse landscape offers anglers a variety of fishing opportunities, from the mouth of the river to the headwaters in the Cascade Mountains.

Spring Chinook

The spring Chinook salmon run is one of the most popular on the Columbia River. These fish typically arrive in Oregon in March and April, and they can be found from the mouth of the river to Bonneville Dam. Spring Chinook are known for their large size and fighting ability, and they can make for an exhilarating fishing experience.

Summer Chinook

The summer Chinook salmon run is one of CIA Outfitters most popular seasons. These fish typically arrive in Oregon in June and July, and they can be found from Bonneville Dam to the mouth of the river. Summer Chinook are not as large as spring Chinook, but they are still a challenging and rewarding fish to catch.

Fall Chinook

The fall Chinook salmon run is the largest on the Columbia River. These fish typically arrive in Oregon in August and September, and they can be found from the mouth of the river to the headwaters in the Cascade Mountains. Fall Chinook are known for their excellent table fare, and they are a popular target for both recreational and commercial anglers.

Coho Salmon

Coho salmon are another popular species of salmon found on the Columbia River. These fish typically arrive in Oregon in September and October, and they can be found from the mouth of the river to Bonneville Dam. Coho are known for their silver coloration and their acrobatic fighting style.

Where to Fish

There are many great places to fish for salmon on the Columbia River in Oregon. Some of the most popular spots include:

The mouth of the river near Astoria
The Buoy 10 fishery
The Bonneville Dam area
The John Day Pool
The Deschutes River
The Sandy River

What to Use

The best bait and tackle for salmon fishing on the Columbia River will vary depending on the species of salmon you are targeting and the time of year. However, some general tips include:

Use bright-colored baits, such as pink or chartreuse, to attract salmon.

Use large hooks, such as 4/0 or 5/0, to land salmon.
Use heavy line, such as 12-pound test, to prevent salmon from breaking your line.
Use a downrigger to get your bait down to the depth where salmon are feeding.

Regulations

It is important to be aware of the fishing regulations before you head out to fish for salmon on the Columbia River. These regulations can change from year to year, so it is always best to check with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) for the most up-to-date information.

Conclusion

Salmon fishing on the Columbia River in Oregon is a great way to experience the beauty of the Pacific Northwest and catch some of the most prized fish in the world. With its diverse landscape and abundant salmon runs, Oregon offers anglers a variety of fishing opportunities to choose from.

So what are you waiting for? Get out there and start fishing!