A Classic Columbia River Experience
My first fishing memory was on my grandpa’s boat on the Rogue River. He was the best fishing guide for Spring Chinook that a kid could ask for. On that hand-built plywood boat I learned the basics of what I still use today. That river was my classroom, he was the teacher, and the subjects were knots, reading water, setting lines, rigging baits and spinners, and dropping the anchor. From that experience I developed a love for Spring Chinook. They are unrivaled on the plate and each one reminds me of that day I reeled in my first fish. I spent years learning how to adapt what I knew for Columbia River Spring Chinook. This is now one of my favorite fisheries and I’m happy to share it with you.
Table of Contents
Basic Columbia River Spring Chinook Techniques
In the earliest part of the Columbia Spring Chinook season, rigging a herring behind a flasher is usually the best bet. The fish hug the bottom and take advantage of the weaker current so triangles generally do better than 360’s. There are many opinions and secret recipes for brine and colors.
Things change once the water begins to warm up. Putting a plug in the path of an oncoming Chinook becomes the first choice tactic. I prefer Brad’s Killer Fish, usually in a size 14 wrapped in either sardine or Tuna. Others will use Kwikfish by Luhr Jensen or Yakima Bait Mag Lips. Just like brine for herring, there are many opinions and secret recipes for wraps and added scents.
Picking the Right Spot for Springers
Figuring out where the fish want to be and where you want to fish is an art form with Springers. This is where having lots of experience and local knowledge can help. There are a few basic rules to help beginners though.
- When the water gets murky, go shallow. The edges of the river slow the current, creating an easier path for the fish. The shallower water also means more light gets to the bottom so the fish can see your gear to attack it.
- If you’re anchored and the boat is rocking the fish will not come knocking. You can be anchored right on top of the fish travel lane and not get bit if your gear isn’t fishing properly. Having the boat swing around in the wind is the number one reason this will happen. Figuring out where the wind is coming from and how to find a spot where you won’t get blown around is key.
- Salmon look for the easy path. They will seek out the edges of eddies, cut corners, and seek out slow water whenever possible. There are a lot of myths about whether they prefer the south side or the north side of the river. The reality is that they generally prefer the easy side.
What to Bring
The Pacific Northwest is famous for cool, wet springs. Dressing in layers is a must, and the outer shell should be waterproof. A good raincoat, rain pants, and waterproof footwear are a must. An insulating middle layer like a sweatshirt can be helpful for keeping warm. Depending on the weather forecast you may want to put on a warm base layer as well. Socks that wick moisture away from your feet will do a lot to help you feel cozy. During the early season the boat will be equipped with a top and a heater to keep things warm, but don’t rely entirely on that. A thermos of coffee or other hot beverage can add to your day. Lunch, non-alcoholic beverages, and snacks are always advised.
Setting Expectations
When I go springer fishing I do my best to catch fish. I use the best bait I can find. I’ve refined my lure selection. I’ve tuned my setup. I pick out the best spot possible. Spring Chinook fishing can be unpredictable though. A large school of herring just off the mouth can distract the fish from entering the river. The annual smelt run can suddenly show up, fill bellies, and cause the fish to be sluggish on the bite. A pod of Sea Lions can set up around the bend from you. Particularly in the early season it is not uncommon to see one fish for every three or four boats. So why do it?
Aside from my own nostalgia, springer fishing is the opportunity to shake off the winter doldrums. There is nothing like sitting under the top and watching the rain on the water while the heater is going. Being anchored gives the opportunity to share stories and conversation. The slower pace allows me to not only be a guide, but be a teacher as well.
Ultimately, the challenge of catching a springer is it’s own reward. When the rod goes down, your heart jumps and the adrenaline starts pumping. Bringing a Spring Chinook over the gunnel is a rare accomplishment for most. Knowing that you’ve done it means you now have a story to tell for life.