What the Columbia River offers anglers

The Columbia River is one of the most productive salmon and steelhead fisheries in North America, running 1,243 miles from the Canadian Rockies to the Pacific Ocean near Ilwaco. The lower Columbia—the section most accessible to anglers fishing from the Washington and Oregon coasts—holds Chinook salmon, coho salmon, steelhead, and white sturgeon year-round, with different species peaking at different times. The river's size, current, and tidal influence create distinct fishing zones: the estuary near Ilwaco where the river meets saltwater, the middle reaches around Portland, and the upper sections toward the Gorge. Most visiting anglers fish the lower river from boats or the bank, targeting salmon during their fall and spring runs or steelhead in winter and spring.

Access varies by location and season. Some sections allow bank fishing from public land; others require a boat. The river's width—often a half-mile or more in the lower reaches—means you can fish from a small aluminum boat, a jet sled, or even a kayak depending on conditions and what you're after. Tides matter here in ways they don't on inland streams: the Columbia's lower 140 miles are tidal, and salmon and steelhead move with the tide, so timing your fishing around slack water or incoming tide can mean the difference between a full day and an empty one.

Key Takeaways

  • Chinook salmon run in spring (April through June) and fall (August through October), with fall fish larger and more abundant in the lower river.
  • Steelhead are most active from November through March, with winter fish concentrated in the lower river and spring fish moving upstream.
  • White sturgeon are present year-round but most catchable from June through September when they feed actively in the lower river.
  • A Washington or Oregon fishing license covers the lower Columbia, but you must check current regulations for species-specific rules, catch limits, and gear restrictions that change seasonally.
  • Tides control fish movement in the lower river, so fishing the incoming tide or slack water is more productive than fighting an outgoing current.

Spring Chinook: April through June

Spring Chinook enter the Columbia in April and peak in May and early June. These are large fish—average 35 to 50 pounds—and they hold in deeper water and current breaks as they move upriver. The lower river from Ilwaco to Longview is the primary zone, though fish continue upstream throughout spring. Most anglers fish from boats, drifting or anchoring in 20 to 40 feet of water near channel ledges, rock piles, and the outside bends where current slows.

Tackle is heavy: 6- to 8-inch plugs, large spinners, and live herring or anchovies work well. Many anglers use jet sleds or drift boats to cover water quickly, stopping to fish likely holding areas. The spring run is shorter and less crowded than fall, but fish are fewer and more scattered. Tides matter: incoming tide concentrates fish and makes them more aggressive. Check current regulations for daily catch limits and any gear restrictions—these change year to year and sometimes mid-season.

Fall Chinook: August through October

Fall Chinook are the workhorse of the lower Columbia. The run begins in August, peaks in September, and tapers through October. These fish average 25 to 40 pounds and are far more abundant than spring fish, making fall the most reliable season for consistent action. The lower river from Ilwaco to Longview holds the densest concentration, and you can find fish in 15 to 35 feet of water near current breaks, channel edges, and rocky structure.

Trolling is the dominant method: anglers pull plugs, spinners, or live bait behind the boat, covering water methodically. Drift fishing with plugs or live herring also works, especially in slower water near the banks. September is typically the peak—water temperatures are still warm, fish are aggressive, and the run is at full strength. By October, fish begin to thin out and move upriver toward spawning grounds. Mornings and evenings are usually more productive than midday, and the incoming tide concentrates fish and triggers feeding.

Steelhead: November through March

Winter steelhead enter the Columbia in November and remain through March, with peak numbers in December and January. These are strong, acrobatic fish averaging 8 to 14 pounds, and they hold in different water than salmon: slower, deeper pools and the inside bends of the river where current is gentler. The lower river from Ilwaco to Longview is productive, but steelhead also hold in the middle reaches around Portland and upstream into the Gorge.

Bank fishing is viable for steelhead, especially from public access points and boat ramps. Drift fishing with roe, sand shrimp, or small plugs is effective. Many anglers also swing flies or spoons on a tight line, letting the current work the fly through holding water. Steelhead are less tide-dependent than salmon but still more active on incoming tide and slack water. Water temperature drops through winter, so fish move slower and hold tighter to structure. Patience and repetition—fishing the same run multiple times—often pays off better than covering new water.

White Sturgeon: June through September

White sturgeon are bottom feeders that live in the Columbia year-round but are most catchable from June through September when water temperatures warm and they feed actively. These are ancient, slow-growing fish that can exceed 100 pounds, though most caught in the lower river run 30 to 60 pounds. Sturgeon hold in deep holes and channel edges, often in 40 to 80 feet of water, and they feed on dead fish, shrimp, and other bottom-dwelling prey.

Sturgeon fishing requires patience and heavy tackle: a sturdy rod, a heavy sinker to hold bottom in current, and fresh bait—herring, shad, or roe. You anchor or drift slowly, keeping your bait on the bottom where sturgeon feed. The fight is slow and powerful rather than acrobatic; many anglers describe it as arm-wrestling a truck. Check regulations carefully: sturgeon have strict size and catch limits, and some sections of the river are closed to sturgeon fishing. Regulations vary between Washington and Oregon, so confirm which state's rules apply to where you're fishing.

Licenses, regulations, and seasonal closures

You need a Washington or Oregon fishing license to fish the lower Columbia. A non-resident license costs roughly $30 to $40 for a one-day permit or $80 to $100 for a multi-day pass, depending on the state and current pricing. Both states offer online purchase, and licenses are also sold at tackle shops and sporting goods stores near the river.

Regulations change seasonally and sometimes mid-season based on run strength and conservation needs. Chinook and coho have daily catch limits that vary by month and location. Steelhead limits also change. Sturgeon have strict size requirements and daily limits, and some river sections close to sturgeon fishing entirely. Gear restrictions—what hooks, weights, and bait you can use—also vary by species and season. Before you fish, check the current regulations on the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife website or the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife website. Tackle shops in Ilwaco and nearby towns also post current rules and can tell you what's open and what's closed.

Boat access and public ramps

The lower Columbia has numerous public boat ramps, most near Ilwaco, Longview, and smaller towns along the river. Ramps range from simple concrete launches to full-service facilities with parking, restrooms, and fuel. Popular ramps near Ilwaco include the Port of Ilwaco ramp and several smaller county launches. Launching fees vary—some are free, others charge $5 to $10 per day. Parking is usually available, though it fills quickly during peak salmon season.

If you don't have a boat, charter services operate out of Ilwaco and other lower-river towns. A half-day charter typically costs $200 to $300 per person, and a full day runs $300 to $500 or more, depending on the season and what you're targeting. Charters provide tackle, know the current productive water, and handle navigation and tides—a good option if you're unfamiliar with the river. Bank access is also available at several public areas, though it's more limited than boat access and often requires walking from parking areas.

Water conditions and safety

The Columbia is a large, powerful river with strong currents, tidal swings, and weather that can change quickly. The lower river's tidal influence means water levels rise and fall 3 to 5 feet daily, and current speeds vary from slack to 3 or 4 knots depending on tide and season. Fog is common, especially in fall and spring, and can reduce visibility to a few hundred feet. Wear a life jacket at all times on the water—the river is cold year-round, and hypothermia sets in quickly if you go overboard.

Check weather and tide forecasts before you launch. Tide tables are available online and at tackle shops; many anglers plan their fishing day around slack water or incoming tide. Wind can make the river rough and dangerous, especially in the wider lower sections. If you're new to the river, fishing with a guide or experienced local angler is worth the cost—they know the hazards, the productive water, and how to read conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best time to fish the Columbia for a first-time visitor?

September is usually the safest bet: fall Chinook are abundant, water conditions are stable, and weather is generally mild. If you're interested in steelhead, December and January offer peak numbers but colder, more variable conditions. Spring (May and June) is also good for Chinook and has pleasant weather, though fish are fewer and more scattered than in fall.

Do I need a boat to fish the Columbia?

No, but a boat gives you access to more productive water and lets you fish with the tide. Bank fishing is possible at public access points, especially for steelhead in winter. If you don't own a boat, charter services are available, or you can fish from the bank and focus on steelhead or sturgeon in deeper holes accessible from shore.

How do tides affect fishing on the Columbia?

Tides control water movement in the lower river, and fish are most active and aggressive during incoming tide and slack water. Outgoing tide pushes fish downstream and makes them less likely to feed. Plan your fishing around tide tables—many anglers fish the two hours before and after slack water, when fish are concentrated and feeding.

What's the difference between spring and fall Chinook?

Spring Chinook are larger (35 to 50 pounds average), fewer in number, and more scattered. Fall Chinook are smaller (25 to 40 pounds average) but far more abundant, making fall more reliable for consistent action. Spring fish are also more sluggish and harder to trigger, while fall fish are aggressive and eager to eat.

Can I keep sturgeon, and what are the size limits?

Yes, but regulations are strict and change year to year. Most seasons allow one or two sturgeon per day, with a minimum size (usually 42 inches) and sometimes a maximum size. Some river sections close to sturgeon fishing entirely. Check current regulations on the Washington or Oregon fish and wildlife website before you fish—penalties for violating sturgeon rules are steep.