Premier Salmon Fishing in Columbia River Gorge

Reel in Trophy Salmon on the Columbia River

Get ready for a full day of chasing monster salmon in one of the Pacific Northwest's most iconic fishing spots. Our 8-hour trip on the Columbia River Gorge puts you right in the action where trophy Chinook and Coho salmon run thick. Whether you're a seasoned angler or it's your first time wetting a line, you'll have a blast hauling in these hard-fighting fish against a backdrop of jaw-dropping scenery. We've got all the gear and know-how - you just bring your game face and be ready to land some serious salmon.

A Day on the Water

We'll meet up bright and early at the marina, load up the boat, and hit the water as the sun's coming up over the Gorge. The morning bite can be hot, so we waste no time getting lines in. You'll be using top-notch gear and learning pro techniques as we troll, cast, and jig for salmon. Your guide knows all the honey holes where big fish like to hang out. Between catches, soak in those postcard-worthy views of towering cliffs and evergreen forests. We'll stop for a quick lunch break (bring your own grub), then it's back to the action. By the time we head in, your arms will be sore from reeling in salmon after salmon. Fair warning: this trip tends to spark lifelong fishing addictions!

Hooking Into Trophy Salmon

To target these hard-fighting fish, we use a mix of trolling and casting techniques. We'll often start by slow-trolling with downriggers, using flashers and cut-plug herring to entice strikes. When we mark fish on the finder, we might switch to casting spinners or twitching jigs. Your guide will show you the ropes on working these lures just right. The key is matching your presentation to what the fish want on any given day. We use stout rods and reels spooled with heavy line - trust me, you'll need it when a 30+ pound Chinook decides to make a run for it! Don't sweat it if you're new to salmon fishing. Your guide will be there every step of the way to help you set the hook and land that trophy catch.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Chinook Salmon: Also known as King salmon, these are the heavyweight champs of the Columbia. Chinooks in the 20-40 pound range are common, with some real giants pushing 50+ pounds. They hit hard and fight like freight trains, often making blistering runs and acrobatic leaps. Fall is prime time for these brutes as they push upriver to spawn. There's nothing quite like the heart-pounding thrill when a big Chinook slams your bait and starts peeling line.

Coho Salmon: While not as large as Chinooks, what Cohos lack in size they make up for in numbers and fight. These sleek, silver missiles typically run 6-12 pounds and are known for their acrobatic leaps and speedy runs. They often travel in schools, so when you find them, the action can be non-stop. Coho flesh is prized for its rich flavor and orange-red color. Late summer through fall is the peak season as they make their spawning run. Pound for pound, many anglers consider Cohos the hardest fighting salmon species.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

The Columbia River Gorge isn't just a world-class fishery - it's a feast for the eyes. As you're battling fish, you'll be surrounded by towering cliffs, evergreen forests, and snow-capped peaks in the distance. Bald eagles soaring overhead and the occasional sea lion popping up add to the wild feel. The sheer volume of salmon that funnel through this river system during peak runs is mind-blowing. It's not uncommon to limit out on multiple species in a day. Plus, you're fishing waters that have drawn anglers for thousands of years - there's a real sense of connection to the land and its history. Whether it's your first time or your fiftieth, that rush when a big salmon hits never gets old.

Time to Book Your Spot

If you're itching to tangle with some trophy Columbia River salmon, don't wait to lock in your trip. Prime dates during peak runs fill up fast, especially in late summer and fall. This full-day adventure is perfect for seasoned anglers looking to tick some bucket list fish off their list, or newcomers wanting to learn from the pros. You'll come away with new skills, unforgettable memories, and probably a good fish story or two. Plus, there's a good chance you'll be bringing home some of the tastiest salmon you've ever had. So grab your fishing buddy (or make it a solo trip) and get ready for an epic day chasing salmon in one of the most beautiful settings imaginable. The big ones are waiting - let's go catch 'em!