Mid Columbia River Fishing Report

Sturgeon Fishing

Written by Toby Wyatt

Toby has been a fishing guide for 32 years. Toby grew up chasing big fish on area rivers. Toby was voted one of the top 25 guides on the west coast by Salmon & Steelhead Journal. He has also been featured in numerous magazine articles, radio programs, T.V. fishing shows on the Columbia River to the Clearwater River.

Posted April 9, 2023

Mid Columbia Fishing Report

In early summer, the mid-Columbia River becomes a haven for fishing enthusiasts, with the elusive coho and the majestic chinook salmon darting through its currents. Walleye are also a popular fish, known for its delicious taste and let’s not forget the giant Sturgeon A successful day on these waters is not just a matter of chance but a craft that requires skill, timing, and a dash of intuition. Some of our popular fishing destinations are; Hanford Reach, John Day Dam, and The Dalles.

 

Updated | April 9th, 2023

Location | Mid-Columbia River

Exciting updates from our Mid-Columbia River Keeper on the Sturgeon and Walleye fishery! This season has been nothing short of phenomenal, prompting us to expand our fleet with a couple of additional boats. The Sturgeon fishing was so exceptional that the Dalles pool had to close for retention just a few days after opening. Undeterred, our skilled captains swiftly navigated upriver to the John Day pool, ensuring continued Sturgeon harvest opportunities for our avid anglers.

The John Day pool remains open, presenting fantastic prospects for both Sturgeon and Walleye fishing. Whether you’re interested in a dedicated Sturgeon trip, Walleye adventure, or a delightful combo, our expert captains are ready to make your experience unforgettable. Cast your lines near Irrigon, Umatilla, and Boardman, Oregon, and witness the bountiful catches. Check out some highlights from this week’s remarkable haul in the attached pictures!

large chinook salmon caught on the columbia river
large number of walley caught near the dalles on the columbia river

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.