Fishing in Columbia River Gorge, Oregon
Key Insights :
- Water Type : Freshwater
- Fishing Type : Shore Fishing, Boat Fishing, Fly Fishing, Kayak Fishing
- Best Time : Early Morning, Midday, Evening
- Difficulty : Intermediate, Moderate, Advanced
- Common Species : Sturgeon, Smallmouth Bass, Walleye, Salmon, Steelhead
- Amenities : Boat Ramp, Bait Shop
- Accessibility : Child-Friendly, Easy Access
- Season : Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter
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The Columbia River Gorge is a scenic canyon of the Columbia River that forms the border between Oregon and Washington. It stretches for over 80 miles, from the confluence of the Columbia and Deschutes rivers in the east to the eastern suburbs of Portland in the west. This area is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and excellent fishing opportunities.
Various fishing techniques are effective in the Columbia River Gorge:
- Trolling with lures or bait for salmon and steelhead.
- Bottom fishing for sturgeon.
- Casting artificial lures for smallmouth bass.
- Fly fishing for steelhead in tributary rivers.
Anglers visiting the Columbia River Gorge can expect a diverse and rewarding fishing experience. The area offers both boat and bank fishing opportunities, with several species available throughout the year. The Gorge is particularly famous for its salmon and steelhead runs, as well as sturgeon fishing.
The Columbia River Gorge is home to a variety of fish species, including:
- Chinook Salmon (Spring, Summer, and Fall runs)
- Coho Salmon
- Steelhead (Summer and Winter runs)
- White Sturgeon
- Smallmouth Bass
- Walleye
- American Shad
Fishing in the Columbia River Gorge is productive year-round, but certain seasons offer better opportunities for specific species:
- Spring (March to May): Excellent for spring Chinook salmon and steelhead.
- Summer (June to August): Good for summer Chinook, sockeye salmon, and steelhead.
- Fall (September to November): Prime time for fall Chinook and coho salmon.
- Winter (December to February): Winter steelhead fishing can be productive.
The Columbia River Gorge features diverse habitats, including deep pools, rocky shorelines, and swift currents. The area is known for its scenic beauty, with towering cliffs and numerous waterfalls. Weather conditions can change rapidly, so anglers should be prepared for various conditions
- Both Oregon and Washington fishing licenses are valid on the main stem of the Columbia River.
- Numerous boat launches and fishing access points are available throughout the Gorge.
- Popular fishing spots include areas near Bonneville Dam, The Dalles, and Hood River.
- Use a fish finder to locate underwater structures and fish schools.
- Pay attention to water flows and temperatures, as these can affect fish behavior.
- Consider hiring a local guide, especially for salmon and sturgeon fishing
- Be aware of shipping traffic on the river and follow all boating safety regulations.
The Columbia River Gorge offers a unique combination of world-class fishing opportunities and breathtaking scenery. Its diverse fish population, including prized salmon and sturgeon, attracts anglers from around the world. Whether you’re targeting trophy Chinook salmon, battling a massive sturgeon, or enjoying scenic bass fishing, the Columbia River Gorge provides an unforgettable fishing experience in one of the most beautiful settings in the Pacific Northwest.
