Ocean Salmon Fishing
Every time I cross the Columbia River Bar to chase ocean salmon I know I’m in for a treat. The tidal dance between the river and ocean creates a network of current seams. These gather bait fish and provide final feeding frenzy for these salmon before they begin their epic trek upriver.
Peak Season: Late June through Mid August
Full Day: $250/Seat, $1,100 Private Boat (max 5)
Trip Includes:
✓ All Fishing Gear
✓ Bait and Lures
✓ Fish Filleting and Cleaning
✓ Ice and Bags for Fish
Fish Freezing and Shipping Available
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Trip Details
Departure Locations
What Do I Bring on an Ocean Salmon Fishing Charter?
Weather appropriate clothing
Drinks
Snacks and lunch
What License Do I need?
Annual Option
Oregon Fishing License with Salmon Tag (Free with license)
Washington Saltwater Fishing License with Salmon Catch Record Card
Daily Option
Oregon Daily Combination Fishing License with Salmon Catch Record Card
OR
Washington Daily Combination Fishing License with Salmon Catch Record Card (Free with license)
What Other Species Can an Ocean Salmon Charter be combined with?
This trip can be combined with Bottom Fishing and Crab for an additional charge
How do I get my Catch Home?
Vacuum sealing, freezing, and shipping is available through Gezellig Seafoods and European Groceries in Downtown Astoria.
What to Expect During an Ocean Salmon Fishing Charter
I will let you know the exact meeting time and location a day or so ahead of time. Weather and tides decide the schedule for a safe bar crossing and biting fish. Once loaded up and the safety briefing is done we will head downriver to the ocean. Plan to enjoy seeing some wildlife, including seals, sea lions, birds, porpoises, and possibly some whales.
We will typically fish near the mouth of the Columbia River, trolling current seams. We may pick up and move several times. This lets us find the depth and seams the fish are schooling on.
Salmon Rodeo, the main event(s)!
Once we find the fish, the bites usually come fast! A school of coho can get multiple rods on at the same time. Big heavy Chinook can take a little bit to bring in. Schools of bait trigger a feeding frenzy and we take full advantage of it! The typical limit is 2 salmon, 1 of which can be a Chinook. When we get coho early, you can choose to drop our gear down deeper to specifically target Chinook. It’s not uncommon to have early limits and spend extra time doing sightseeing. A combination trip for bottom fish is also a great way to spend the extra time!
