Drano Lake Fishing Report
Written by Toby Wyatt
Posted April 14, 2024
It’s Time to Get the Rods Out, Because Drano Lake is Teeming with Fish!
Drano Lake is a beautiful tributary of the Columbia River nestled just downstream of Hood River, Oregon. Situated on the Washington side of the river, this scenic spot is fed by the enchanting Little White Salmon River.
Drano Lake has a thriving fish hatchery that releases an impressive 9.4 million salmon and steelhead smolt each year. This ensures a sustainable fish population not just in the lake, but throughout Washington. If you’re an angler, this is the place to be! People from all over the Northwest flock to this popular destination during the spring and fall seasons to enjoy the abundance of salmon and steelhead.
Updated | April 14th, 2024
Location | Columbia River, Drano Lake
2024 Drano Lake Fishing Report Update
Spring Chinook Are Here
Mark your calendars from April 20th through May for an angling adventure like no other! Join us as we set our sights on Drano Lake and the Wind River in pursuit of the legendary Spring Chinook. Renowned for their exquisite taste, these prized Salmon are the crown jewels of the Pacific Northwest.
With the 2024 forecast projecting a staggering 121,000 upriver spring Chinook, anticipation is at an all-time high. Picture it: the majestic Chinook commencing their annual migration up the Columbia River, surging over Bonneville Dam in a magnificent display of nature’s grandeur. And guess what? The reports are in, and Chinook sightings in our targeted area are already making waves!
But here’s the kicker: the best is yet to come! Brace yourselves for a surge in Chinook numbers over Bonneville Dam in the upcoming week, marking the peak of the run through the Drano Lake region. Trust us, you don’t want to miss out on this exhilarating spectacle of nature in motion!
Prepare for an angling odyssey like no other as we embark on a quest to reel in these prized Chinook amidst the stunning backdrop of Drano Lake and the Wind River. With each cast, you’ll be one step closer to culinary bliss, savoring the unmatched flavor of these delectable Spring Chinook.
Updated | January 22th, 2024
Location | Columbia River, Drano Lake
Drano Lake Fishing Report for 2024
Calling all fishing enthusiasts! It’s time to set your sights on the Pacific Northwest’s most coveted catch – the spring Chinook. Renowned for their abundance of omega-3 fats, these magnificent fish are highly sought after and can fetch upwards of $50 per pound at Pike Place Market.
Join us as we target these prized Chinook in the prime fishing grounds of Wind River and Drano Lake, where an impressive concentration of these exceptional fish awaits. Wind River is predicted to see a return of 4,200 fish, while Drano Lake is expecting a staggering 5,300. Though official limits have not been set by the WDFW, it’s likely to be 1 fish at Wind River and 2 at Drano.
Make your way to the picturesque towns of Stevenson, Washington, and Hood River, Oregon, and let our new travel agent capabilities take care of finding and booking a delightful room for your stay. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the Columbia River Gorge as you set out to reel in the Pacific Northwest’s most prized salmon.
Don’t miss this exclusive opportunity to be part of an unforgettable angling experience. Book your adventure today and get ready to make memories that will last a lifetime! The cost for this amazing fishery is $275 per angler.
Updated | April 14h, 2023
Location | Columbia River, Dalles and John Day Dam
Ready to Cast Your Line Near the Wind River Area Or The Dalles and John Day Dam?
We also fish the Wind River area just down river of Drano and the main stem of the Columbia between Dalles and John Day dams. If the fishing is better in one of the other areas, we will take you there. We suggest motels in Hood River or Dalles OR.
This fishery requires a Washington state fishing license with Salmon tag (not provided). We provide poles, bait, tackle and look forward to 8hrs of fishing.
Frequently Asked Questions about our fishing trips
HOW MANY PEOPLE CAN I BRING ON MY TRIP?
The legal max boatload is six anglers, but with six full time guides available we are able to accommodate large groups of more than six people.
IS LUNCH/DRINKS PROVIDED ON MY TRIPS?
We do provide a BBQ lunch and drinks on all Clearwater, Snake, and Dworshak trips. Lunch and drinks ARE NOT provided on any of our Columbia River or Grande Ronde river trips.
HOW MANY HOURS ARE WE ON THE WATER?
Look forward to at least 8 hours of fishing unless you book a half day trip, then look forward to 4 hours of fishing
DO YOU PROVIDE ALL THE GEAR WE NEED TO FISH?
Yes, each guide is fully equipped with top-notch rods, reels and bait to ensure success on your trip.
DO I NEED TO PRE-PAY OR PLACE A DEPOSIT DOWN TO HOLD MY SPOT?
We require a 50% deposit at the time of booking, final payment must be made in full 10 days prior to your trip. We do not offer refunds for cancellations or head-count changes made inside 10 days of your trip.
DO YOU CLEAN AND FILLET OUR CATCH?
Yes, all of our guides will clean and fillet your catch unless otherwise specified.