Renowned Columbia River PM Fishing Adventure

Reel in Afternoon Action on the Columbia

Ready for some laid-back fishing with a shot at landing a monster? Our private half-day trips on the Columbia River are just the ticket. We'll set you up with everything you need to chase after salmon, walleye, and even prehistoric sturgeon. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting your feet wet, our guides know all the local hotspots and tricks to put you on fish. Soak in those river views, breathe in that fresh air, and get ready for some quality time on the water with your crew. It's the perfect way to spend an afternoon doing something way more exciting than binge-watching another series.

What to Expect on the Water

We'll meet you at the dock in the early afternoon, usually around 1 PM. After a quick safety rundown and gear check, we'll motor out to where the fish are biting. Our boats are comfy and stable, perfect for relaxed fishing in all conditions. You'll have your pick of techniques - we can troll for salmon, jig for walleye, or set up for sturgeon depending on what's running. Your guide will be right there to help you get dialed in, whether you need a refresher on casting or tips for fighting that big one. We provide all the rods, reels, and tackle, plus we'll take care of cleaning any keepers at the end of the day. Just bring some snacks, drinks, and a good attitude - we'll handle the rest.

Top Catches This Season

Out here on the Columbia, we're all about matching our approach to what's biting. For salmon, we'll often be trolling with downriggers, using cut-plug herring or spinners to entice those big Chinooks. When we're after walleye, light jigging with nightcrawlers or soft plastics is the name of the game. And for those monster sturgeon? We'll set up with heavy gear and chunk bait, ready for a tug-of-war with a living fossil. Your guide will walk you through each technique, showing you how to work your lures and read the bite. It's hands-on learning in a real-world setting - way more fun than watching fishing shows from the couch.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Chinook Salmon: These bad boys are the kings of the Columbia, and for good reason. Chinooks in this river can push 50 pounds or more, giving you an arm-burning fight and some of the best-eating fish around. They start running in the spring, but fall is prime time when these silver missiles are at their biggest and most aggressive. There's nothing quite like the screaming run of a fresh Chinook - it'll have you grinning from ear to ear.

Walleye: Don't let their size fool you - these toothy predators punch well above their weight class. Columbia River walleye average 2-4 pounds, but 10+ pounders aren't unheard of. They're crafty fighters, using head shakes and deep dives to try and shake the hook. Best of all, they're active year-round, so there's always a chance at tangling with these tasty devils. Their white, flaky meat is considered some of the best freshwater fish you can eat.

Lake Sturgeon: If you want a shot at prehistoric power, sturgeon are your target. These armored giants can live for over 100 years and grow to truly massive sizes. The Columbia is home to sturgeon pushing 10 feet long and over 500 pounds. Even an "average" 6-footer will test your strength and endurance like nothing else. We practice catch-and-release for these ancient fish, but the memories of battling one will last a lifetime. Peak season is typically May through July, but they can be caught year-round.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

There's something special about fishing the Columbia. Maybe it's the way the afternoon light glints off the water, or how the surrounding landscape makes you feel tiny in comparison. But mostly, it's the fish. This river has a mix of species you just can't find anywhere else, from hard-fighting salmon to prehistoric sturgeon. Our half-day trips give you a perfect taste of what the Columbia has to offer, without eating up your whole day. It's long enough to really get into the groove and have a solid chance at landing something impressive, but short enough that you won't be completely wiped out afterward. Plus, our guides are locals who've been fishing these waters for decades. They know all the secret spots and little tricks that can turn a slow day into a highlight reel.

Time to Book Your Spot

Look, we could go on all day about why fishing the Columbia is so awesome. But at some point, you've just got to experience it for yourself. Our private half-day trips are the perfect way to dip your toes in (figuratively speaking, of course). Whether you're looking to introduce the kids to fishing, want a relaxed afternoon with your buddies, or are dead-set on landing that personal best, we've got you covered. Remember, we're out there year-round, but some seasons book up fast - especially during prime salmon runs. So don't wait too long to lock in your spot. Give us a call or shoot us an email, and we'll get you set up for an afternoon of Columbia River action you won't soon forget. Trust us, it beats another day of yard work or Netflix, hands down.