Columbia River Spring Chinook Charter
Spring Chinook are my first love. 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 one of my favorite fisheries and I’m happy to share it with you.
SPECIAL NOTE: Spring Chinook Seasons can be announced on short notice. Use the subscribe button to get updates right away.
Spring Chinook Peak Season:
Late March-May
Spring Chinook Fishing Trip Pricing:
Full Day: $250/Seat
Trip Includes:
✓ All Fishing Gear
✓ Bait and Lures
✓ Fish Filleting and Cleaning
✓ Ice and Bags for Fish
Fish Freezing and Shipping Available
Latest Spring Chinook Fishing Updates
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Frequently Asked Questions
Depending on where the fish are biting, Spring Chinook trips leave from:
Westport County Park
John Day County Park (Parking fee required)
Annual Option
Oregon Fishing License with Columbia River Basin Endorsement and Salmon Tag
OR
Washington Fishing License with Columbia River Endorsement and Salmon Harvest Card
Daily Option
Oregon Daily Fishing License with Columbia River Basin Endorsement and Catch Record Card (Free with License)
OR
Washington Daily Combination License with Columbia RIver Salmon and Steelhead Endorsement and Catch Record Card (Free with License)
Yes. I supply all of the needed fishing gear and bait
The boat will be covered and heated during from the beginning of the season through mid-May.
Bring weather appropriate clothing, snacks, drinks, and lunch.
If you are driving home, I supply plastic bags and ice. Bringing a cooler is recommended.
Vacuum sealing, freezing, and shipping is available through Gezellig Seafoods and European Groceries in Downtown Astoria.
Check out more tips for getting ready for your trip
What to Expect During a Spring Chinook 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 out to the fishing spot.
During the early season, our destination will be upriver near Puget Island, Washington, Cathlamet, Washington, and Clifton, Oregon. Later in the season I tend to fish lower near Altoona, Washington, and Rice Island. Depending on the tide and wind we will either troll or anchor up with plugs. Springer fishing can be slower paced and it’s a great time to catch up with old friends. The ultimate reward is an amazing tasting fish and a chance to break off the winter doldrums.
What is Spring Chinook Fishing Action Like?
Whether we’re trolling or on anchor, we’re waiting for a rod to bend over with the force of a fish. For this early fishery each bite is precious and we’ll want to make the most of it. No mater what you do, DO NOT SET THE HOOK. The fish will hook themselves on either the plug or the bait. Salmon are naturally acrobatic but cooler water can shift their strategies. Early on, expect runs and switchbacks, especially near the boat. As the water warms the fight will pick up with jumping and longer runs being more common. Your job is to get the fish turned and guide it to the net. Do not let their slower action deceive you though. Once near the boat, even an early Spring Chinook can wake up and tap a tremendous reserve of energy.
Book a Trip
Discounts Available for Multi-day trips, First Responders, Active Duty Military and Veterans (includes Coast Guard), First Responders, and Foster Families. E-mail or call (657)378-1939.
Shared Trip, Reserve 3 seats to guarantee private trip
Departure times are approximate and may vary depending on weather and tide
