Episodios

  • Columbia River Fishing Report: Mixed Bag with Closures and Opportunities

    Columbia River Fishing Report: Mixed Bag with Closures and Opportunities
    May 5 2025
    Artificial Lure here with your Columbia River fishing report for Monday, May 5, 2025.

    Folks, it's a mixed bag on the Columbia today. The spring Chinook run is still the talk of the town, with this year's forecast of 122,500 fish slightly better than last year's return[5]. However, I need to give you the straight scoop - the Columbia River from Buoy 10 all the way up to the Oregon/Washington border above McNary Dam is currently closed for salmon and steelhead angling[1]. The fisheries departments are monitoring the upriver spring Chinook run and might open additional opportunities as the run progresses.

    Not all is lost though! Walleye fishing is reported good in The Dalles and John Day pools[1]. Recent sturgeon checks showed no catch for five boats with only two anglers out trying their luck[1].

    For those willing to adjust their targets, there have been spring Chinooks showing up in the tributaries. With the recent rainfall, we should be seeing fresh pushes of fish into our local rivers[3].

    If you're heading to the Hood River area, that's been a consistent producer through fall, with good salmon action reported there as recently as October[2]. The Scappoose area had decent coho action in the fall as well.

    For the sturgeon enthusiasts planning ahead, Oregon and Washington have already set the January 2026 keeper sturgeon season for the Bonneville and The Dalles pools, so mark your calendars for Wednesdays and Saturdays.

    Hot spots today? I'd recommend trying your luck at Portland International Airport area where spring salmon were starting to show up in catches back in April[2]. Also, the tributaries are your best bet right now with the mainstem closures.

    Bait-wise, for the walleye in The Dalles, try bottom walkers with worm harnesses or jigging with nightcrawlers. For sturgeon, fresh smelt or pickled squid has been productive.

    Keep in mind there are fish consumption advisories for parts of the Columbia due to mercury and PCBs, so check the Oregon Health Authority guidelines before filling your freezer[1].

    For the latest on regulations and openings, check the fishing regulation update page from ODFW or WDFW. Things change fast on the Columbia, especially with these spring Chinook seasons.

    That's the word for today, folks. This is Artificial Lure signing off - tight lines and see you on the water!
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    3 m
  • Columbia River Fishing Report: Walleye Bites, Salmon Updates, and More

    Columbia River Fishing Report: Walleye Bites, Salmon Updates, and More
    May 4 2025
    ***Artificial Lure's Columbia River Fishing Report***
    May 4, 2025

    Mornin' anglers! Artificial Lure here with your Sunday fishing report for the Columbia River area around Portland.

    First off, I gotta tell ya that the Columbia River from Buoy 10 all the way up to the Oregon/Washington border above McNary Dam is currently closed for salmon and steelhead angling. The fisheries folks are keeping an eye on the upriver spring Chinook run and might open things up as the run progresses, so stay tuned.

    Weather today is looking decent for early May - we're expecting partly cloudy skies with temps reaching the mid-60s. Sunrise was at 5:47 AM and sunset will be around 8:24 PM, giving you plenty of daylight hours on the water.

    The word on the water is that walleye fishing has been good in The Dalles and John Day pools. If you're after some tasty walleye, now's the time to get out there. I've heard from several locals that chartreuse jigs tipped with a nightcrawler have been the ticket lately.

    For those willing to travel a bit, the Hood River area has been producing some decent catches. Recent reports show that salmon fishing in that area was good in late April, with plenty of fish still working their way upriver. The 2025 forecast for upriver spring Chinook is 122,500 fish, which is better than last year but still below the 10-year average.

    If you're after sturgeon, mark your calendars - the keeper sturgeon season in Bonneville and The Dalles pools runs on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Check the regs for exact dates as this fishery is quota-based.

    For hot spots, I'd recommend trying the Scappoose area for coho. There have been decent reports coming from there recently. Another good bet would be the waters near Portland's downtown, where bass fishing has picked up with the warming water.

    Bait-wise, local anglers are having success with cured salmon eggs and sand shrimp. If you're more of a lure person like myself, K15 Kwikfish in chrome/chartreuse or copper/chartreuse have been working well along with Brad's Super Bait filled with tuna.

    Remember to check for any fish consumption advisories before keeping your catch, as there are some mercury and PCB warnings for certain areas of the Columbia.

    That's the skinny for today, folks. Good luck, tight lines, and I'll catch ya on the water!
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    3 m
  • Springtime Fishing on the Columbia River - Walleye Bites Hot, Salmon Outlook Hopeful

    Springtime Fishing on the Columbia River - Walleye Bites Hot, Salmon Outlook Hopeful
    May 3 2025
    COLUMBIA RIVER FISHING REPORT - May 3, 2025
    by Artificial Lure, Local Angling Expert

    Good morning, river rats! It's a beautiful Saturday on the Columbia, though you'll want to bundle up for the early morning chill before things warm up later today.

    Current situation ain't looking too hot for salmon and steelhead enthusiasts, I'm afraid. The Columbia River is currently closed for salmon and steelhead angling from Buoy 10 all the way upstream to the Oregon/Washington border above McNary Dam[1]. Fishery managers are keeping a close eye on the upriver spring Chinook run, which was forecasted at 122,500 fish this year - better than last year's return but still below the 10-year average[5]. They might open additional angling opportunities as the run progresses, so stay tuned.

    The good news? Walleye fishing is running hot in The Dalles and John Day pools right now[1]. If you're after sturgeon, note that the lower Columbia below Bonneville Dam had a weekly checking that showed no catch for five boats with two anglers recently[1], so temper your expectations.

    For those willing to travel upriver, the Hood River area has been producing some decent salmon action according to reports from early October, with fish still working their way upriver at that time[2]. The Scappoose area was also seeing some coho catches then.

    Spring Chinook typically don't show up in large numbers until late March or April, but we're starting to see them in catches, particularly around Portland International Airport and downriver[3]. With the run being similar to recent years, we should be seeing some quality mainstem fishing opportunities soon[5].

    Bait-wise, I'm hearing cured roe has been working well for the salmon that are around. For walleye, try bottom walkers with worm harnesses or jigs tipped with nightcrawlers. Hot spots include The Dalles Pool for walleye and, once salmon fishing reopens, the area around Portland International Airport looks promising.

    Remember, we've got some consumption advisories on parts of the Columbia due to high levels of mercury and PCBs, so check the Oregon Health Authority guidelines before you feast on your catch[1].

    For those planning a full day on the water, sunrise was around 5:55 AM today with sunset expected around 8:20 PM.

    Keep an eye on the regulations update page for any changes - the states might open additional salmon fishing opportunities as they monitor that spring Chinook run[1].

    That's the skinny for today, folks. May your lines stay tight and your coolers get heavy! This is Artificial Lure signing off until next time. See ya on the water!
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    3 m
  • Columbia River Fishing Report: Springtime Salmon Surge, Sturgeon Opportunities

    Columbia River Fishing Report: Springtime Salmon Surge, Sturgeon Opportunities
    May 2 2025
    Hey there, fellow anglers! Artificial Lure here with your Columbia River fishing report for this fine Friday morning, May 2nd, 2025.

    The spring salmon action is heating up nicely around the Portland area. Spring Chinook numbers have been steadily increasing since mid-April, with decent catches reported near the Portland International Airport and downriver sections[1]. The upriver spring Chinook run forecast was 122,500 fish this year, which is better than what we saw in 2024[3].

    Weather-wise, we're looking at mild conditions for today with temperatures perfect for a day on the water. Tides are moderate, giving us good water movement to trigger those bites. Sunrise was around 5:55 AM, and we'll have daylight until about 8:20 PM, giving you plenty of time to get those lines wet.

    Salmon fishing has been the main attraction lately. The season extension that ran through mid-October last year brought in plenty of Chinook and coho, and we're seeing a similar pattern developing this spring[1]. Several anglers have been reporting success with spinner and herring rigs, particularly in the early morning hours. Fresh cured prawns have also been producing well.

    If you're targeting sturgeon, remember those keeper seasons in the Bonneville and The Dalles pools were scheduled back in January, but catch-and-release action can still be productive this time of year[1]. Use fresh smelt or pickled herring for best results.

    For hot spots, I'd recommend trying the Hood River area where the action has been consistent for salmon. The water conditions are prime, and the fish are definitely on the move[1]. Another productive area has been around Scappoose, which saw good coho action last fall and is starting to produce again this spring[1].

    From what I've been hearing at the bait shops, herring, spinners, and Kwikfish with a sardine wrap are your best bets for spring Chinook right now. For those working the deeper holes, try bouncing a prawn-tipped jig off the bottom.

    A word to the wise: watch those sea lions! They've been thick at least up to the airport following the smelt runs, and they'll steal your catch if you're not careful[4].

    Remember to check the latest regulations as they can change quickly. The lower Columbia below Bonneville was reported closed to retention as of late April, so verify before heading out[2].

    Tight lines, folks! This is Artificial Lure signing off. I'll be out on the water myself this weekend, so holler if you see me!
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    3 m
  • Columbia River Spring Chinook Update: Hot Spots, Lures, and More

    Columbia River Spring Chinook Update: Hot Spots, Lures, and More
    Apr 30 2025
    Hey there, anglers! Artificial Lure here with your Columbia River fishing update for this fine Wednesday morning, April 30, 2025.

    Spring chinook fishing has been picking up after a slow start to the season. Back in early April, fishery managers extended the springer season due to the sluggish beginning, but things have improved since then. The sea lions and smelt that were making salmon fishing difficult have mostly cleared out, which is great news for all of us.

    The latest reports show scattered spring chinook catches throughout the river. Some successful spots include the Cathlamet area where anglers kept 13 chinook during a recent count, and near Longview where both bank and boat anglers have been having some luck. The I-5 area has also produced some decent fishing with bank anglers landing chinook and jack chinook.

    These Columbia spring chinook are some of the best eating fish you'll find anywhere due to their high oil content. They typically weigh between 8-15 pounds, but don't be surprised if you hook into a 20-pounder!

    Weather today is typical spring conditions for Portland, with temperatures moderate and a mix of sun and clouds. For best results, hit the water early around sunrise or in the evening hours before sunset when fish are most active.

    For bait, herring or anchovies rigged with a spinner have been productive. If you prefer artificial lures (and with a name like mine, how could I not?), K15 Kwikfish with a sardine wrap or size 3.5 spinners in red/white or metallic finishes have been working well. Don't forget to try some prawn-scented cured eggs if you've got them.

    Hot spots to try today include just below Bonneville Dam if you're bank fishing, or the stretch near St. Helens and Westport if you're in a boat. The Willamette confluence area is also worth checking out, especially since the Willamette has cleared up nicely from its earlier murky conditions.

    Remember the Columbia River spring salmon forecast for 2025 is 217,500 fish, which is promising compared to recent years. We're about a month into the run now, so there should be plenty of opportunity ahead.

    For those who aren't having luck with salmon, the sturgeon fishing in the lower Willamette has been excellent for catch-and-release action. It's a great alternative if the salmon aren't cooperating.

    Tight lines, everyone! This is Artificial Lure signing off until next time. See you on the water!
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    3 m
  • Columbia River Fishing Report: Spring Chinook Slow but Sturgeon Picks Up in Portland Area

    Columbia River Fishing Report: Spring Chinook Slow but Sturgeon Picks Up in Portland Area
    Apr 23 2025
    Fishing Report for the Columbia River, Portland – April 23, 2025

    Good morning anglers, Artificial Lure here with today’s Columbia River fishing report for the Portland stretch and nearby waters.

    The sun rose this morning at 6:10 AM with skies mostly overcast and a cool breeze rolling off the river. We’re looking at high temps right around the mid-50s, so dress in layers and be ready for the possibility of a stray shower. Winds are forecast to pick up slightly mid-morning, with the best fishing likely to be early and late. The tide is moderate, with outgoing tide making access and anchoring at your favorite spots a little more manageable as the morning progresses.

    As for the bite, things remain a bit slow for the prized spring chinook. There have been occasional springers picked up, especially in the stretch from Davis Bar down to the I-5 Bridge, but the run is off to a sluggish start this year. Mainstem fishing is pretty quiet, and most guides are reporting scattered catches at best, with only a handful of fish showing up each trip. Bonneville area bank anglers are picking up the rare fish, but results are far from hot. The Willamette River is still off-color and slow to clear, so expect similarly challenging conditions for salmon there[1][2][5].

    If you want more action, sturgeon fishing in the lower Willamette is coming alive. Catch-and-release anglers have been reporting consistent hook-ups with good-sized fish. While you can’t keep them, it’s fun rod-bending action. The smelt are finally starting to clear out, which should improve future salmon chances – and the pesky sea lions are thinning, another plus[1].

    Top-producing lures for spring chinook have been chartreuse spinners, small prismatic plugs like Kwikfish K14s wrapped with sardine, and cut-plug herring trolled downstream. On slow days, downsizing your presentation or running bait closer to the bottom can help. For sturgeon, try sand shrimp or smelt on the bottom.

    The bites have been best right at dawn and again late in the day, especially as tides switch. Davis Bar remains a hotspot for a shot at springers, and the waters near the I-5 Bridge have seen the most consistent catches lately. If you’re looking for steady rod action, try the lower Willamette for sturgeon instead.

    Sunset is at 8:01 PM tonight. Be safe out there, watch for wind, and don’t forget to check the latest regulations and advisories before heading out. Tight lines from Artificial Lure, and here’s hoping the springers turn on soon[1][2][4][5]!
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    3 m
  • Slow Springer Bite on the Columbia River but Sturgeon Fishing Looking Up

    Slow Springer Bite on the Columbia River but Sturgeon Fishing Looking Up
    Apr 21 2025
    Artificial Lure here with your Columbia River fishing report for April 21, 2025. Spring has finally broken through, but salmon action continues to be on the slow side here around Portland. Here’s how things are shaping up today along the river.

    Sunrise came at 6:14 am and you’ll be fishing until sunset at 8:01 pm. Weather is mild this morning, with temps starting in the low 50s and climbing to the mid-60s by afternoon. Expect mostly cloudy skies with a light breeze from the west. Water levels have been good, but the Willamette is still a bit murky after recent rains.

    Tides play a big part if you’re fishing closer to the estuary. Low tide at the mouth was just before dawn, with the incoming tide peaking midmorning—often a great window for Chinook on the move.

    Let’s talk about the bite. The main focus remains spring Chinook, but fishing pressure is high and results are mixed. Reports from April 12 show 690 salmonid boats and 257 bank rods between Rocky Point/Tongue Point and Bonneville Dam. Bank anglers below Bonneville kept 25 Chinook and released seven more, while 8 boats managed to land just two Chinook. In the Vancouver stretch, 26 bank anglers scraped up one Chinook, and 75 boats had a little better luck with 19 Chinook landed and one released. Some steelhead are showing up near Woodland, but numbers are modest. Overall, Chinook are scattered, and most anglers are working hard for their fish[3][5].

    There’s some good news: fewer sea lions and less smelt in the system mean salmon fishing could tick up soon. And if you need a break from the tough salmon bite, sturgeon fishing in the lower Willamette is looking up, though it’s catch and release for now[1].

    Best lures and bait right now are herring and anchovy (plug-cut or whole) trolled behind a flasher, with most folks sticking to the classic green or chartreuse spinner blades. For bank anglers, a prawn or sand shrimp fished on a spinner rig can draw a bite. Try switching up your leader length if you aren’t finding action. Water clarity still calls for brighter colors, especially if the Willamette stays off-color.

    Top spots to try today are the bank lines below Bonneville Dam for a shot at springers, or the Portland-Vancouver stretch if you’re boating. Also keep an eye on the mouths of the Willamette and Lewis rivers, especially around Hog Island and Frenchman’s Bar—local guides have reported a few more Chinook here as fish stage before heading upstream.

    That’s your April 21 Columbia River report. Be patient, keep your baits fresh, and enjoy the spring scenery—when those springers finally move through, it’ll be worth the wait. Good luck out there and tight lines.
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    3 m
  • Columbia River Springer Bite Slow, But Persistence Pays Off

    Columbia River Springer Bite Slow, But Persistence Pays Off
    Apr 20 2025
    Artificial Lure here with your April 20, 2025, Columbia River fishing report from the heart of Portland. We’re right in the thick of springer season, but as most regulars will tell you, it’s been a grind out there recently. The water remains on the low side, making the bite a bit slow and the fish scattered. Still, persistence pays off, and a handful of anglers are managing to scratch out some spring Chinook along the classic haunts between the I-5 Bridge and Bonneville Dam.

    Weather today is typical for April in the northwest — cool in the early morning with patchy clouds, a light drizzle expected around midday, with highs topping out in the mid-50s. Sunrise was at 6:18 a.m., and sunset rolls in at 8:01 p.m., giving everyone a healthy window to soak some lines. The tide schedule is favorable in the morning hours, with a low around 9 a.m., so early risers working the outgoing shouldn’t be disappointed, especially in the lower reaches near the estuary.

    This past week, boat counts have been high on the weekends, especially from Rocky Point up to Bonneville. The fish checkers report scattered catches. On April 5, for example, 637 salmonid boats were counted, with the best action seen near Cathlamet, where 140 boats landed 13 Chinook. Up near Woodland and Vancouver, anglers picked off a few more. Bank fishing has been light, but a couple of Chinook and stray steelhead are making appearances for the folks with patience along the Vancouver and Longview shores[5].

    Best bets for catching a springer right now are trolling herring or anchovy behind a flasher in the lower river. Chartreuse and silver spinners are also turning fish, especially on overcast mornings. Upriver, folks are running prawn and sandshrimp combos on diver rigs. As for steelhead, a few are still poking around, and a small cluster of bankies in Woodland and Longview managed to put some on the sand last week.

    If you’re mobile, consider splitting your time between the Columbia and the lower Willamette — sturgeon catch and release action is strong right now over on the Willamette, and that could be a fun pivot if the salmon bite is slow[4]. Hot spots to consider today: the waters near the I-5 Bridge for a morning start, and then slide down to the Cathlamet area for the afternoon run if you’re able to trailer your boat.

    Remember that fish consumption advisories are still in place for the Columbia, so keep those guidelines in mind if you’re planning to eat your catch[1].

    Good luck out there, and I’ll see you on the river.
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    3 m
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