10 Reasons To Buy A Boat This Year

February 2, 2012

I generally steer away from overt pitches in this blog but with so much fishing ahead of us, and a lull in the action right now, sharing the top opportunities for 2012 seems like an appropriate, worthwhile topic.

As a dedicated boater, I don't need to be sold on boating.  I've long enjoyed piloting boats of all sizes and descriptions.  Truth be told I'm a trailerable boat guy.  I've run a couple of yacht-sized boats and it wasn't for me.  That certainly doesn't mean its not worth trying but for me, it wasn't the kind of boating I enjoy.

For me, there's something magical about small boat boating.  It's a unique perspective, singular experience, it gives me a sense of freedom and independence and I can feel the water in a way that bigger boats can't.  Whether I'm rowing a drift boat, running a jet sled, barreling down the Columbia or trolling the Willamette or some mountain lake it's all good.  But as much as I enjoy boating I enjoy fishing even more and it's largely the reason I boat.  There's a long list of fabulous fishing opportunities across the N.W. --- enough to keep you going nearly every weekend - year around.

So here are my reasons to buy a boat this year.

1.  Spring Chinook.  The Columbia in March and Willamette from mid-April through the second week of June. Another record run is expected on the Columbia and a strong return is anticipated on the Willamette.  If last year was any indication of what this year will bring...be sure you're ready early because it should provide some steady, reliable and very good fishing!

2. Willamette smallmouth.  As Oregonian outdoor writer extraordinaire Bill Monroe has shared with me, and I agree, smallmouth bass have "exploded" in the Willamette.  It's a productive and exciting fishery.  Starts in early April and continues strong into October.

3.  Columbia River Summer Chinook.  This season gets going around the middle of June and will peak in early July.  Great fish and fishery.  Lots of opportunities close to Portland.

4.  Columbia River summer steelhead.  Another homerun hit!  Last year delivered some really exceptional fishing, particularly through the months of July and August.  Find a spot to anchor in shallow water (8' or so) where the river narrows and plunk Flatfish, Spin-N-Glos or spinners and you're in business.

5.  Wallowa Lake Kokanee.  With kokanee salmon in excess of 8 pounds landed from this lake early in the season (May), it's become one of the top kokanee fisheries in the world.  You'll have to work hard to hook and land this lake's big fish but there's enough rainbows and lake trout to keep you happy if you want to take a break and catch a mess of fish.

6.  Buoy 10 salmon.  Another strong year for Chinook is forecast and there will be plenty of silvers around thanks to the SAFE areas that provide good fishing in August and September.  An iconic fishery and one that delivers year-in and year-out.

7.  Nehalem Bay salmon.  Starts in July ends in October with peak fishing in August and early September. Last year was outrageously good after a two year dry-spell.  Expect it to be good again this year.

8.  Tillamook Bay spring Chinook.  Mid-May through the first week or so in June is when this fishery is peaking and it can be very very good.  Light pressure, lots of water and terrific fish.

9.  Columbia River fall Chinook.  A personal favorite, this can be somewhat technical but once you "figure it out" it's one of the most rewarding and exciting trips around.  End of September through the first week or two of October below Bonneville Dam.  Bring lots of Hawg Nose FlatFish and sardines!

10.  Columbia River crabbing.  October and November provide incredible opportunity to catch loads of tasty Dungeness crab out of Hammond.  Put out a few pots just before high slack tide, let them soak for 30 to 45 minutes and you'll likely have plenty of crab for a nice feed.

These are 10 great reasons to buy a boat this year but you can add another 50 or 60 to this list easily and lots and lots more if you do a little homework.  Fortunately, we live in an area filled with fishing.  To this list can be added sturgeon, walleye, more trout, halibut, largemouth bass, panfish and dozens of highly productive lakes and rivers.

Just sayin...if you need some good reasons to buy a boat this year --- well here they are.

 

A Great Time To Get Organized

January 19, 2011

There's always something to do when it comes to fishing right? Yes...but is it worth it?  Torrential rains have blown out most rivers with opportunities confined to some sturgeon fishing and coastal lakes for trout.  My recommendation...stay home and get your gear ready for all the fishing that's headed your way.

I'll probably put some time into my boat this weekend.  I've already made a number of welcome upgrades --- added a couple rod holders, a couple cup holders, new inflatable life vests, and a new place to rest my rods when I'm under power.  Now, I'll go through my boat with a fine tooth comb.  I'll get it cleaned up and completely ready so when it clears and opporutnity calls I'll be ready to roll. 

Fresh line on the reels, clean the herring scales off the rods, put new hooks on the plugs that need it, go through my salmon spinners, divers, pre-tied rigs, lead...everything...and make sure it's all ship-shape and ready to go.  I'll be sure to have a note pad handy so I can create a list as I find things that need to be fixed or purchased.  I noticed both of my fire extinguishers for my boat need to be replaced.  The gauge read "recharge".  That's a spendy little ticket if I'm checked by law enforcement. I'll double check to make sure my boat has a couple mooring lines; a tow rope; small anchor and rope...just in case; paddle; horn; whistle...again, just in case; wool gloves; extra hat; a couple flashlights with fresh batteries; a couple sets of new spark plugs; some two-stroke oil and four stroke oil; fish bags; garbage bags; fishing regulations; first aid kit;cloth towels; paper towels; several large and small Zip Loc bags; a bottle of Joy for soap; some small boat brushes for clean-up; a couple lighters; and several extra drain plugs.  Frankly, the drain plugs are less for me (I keep a couple spares in the glove box of my tow vechicle at all times) and more for other people I meet at the ramp.  It's an expensive goodwill measure if someone needs one.

Be sure the hubs on your trailer are lubed and all your lights are working.  A friend of mine's trip was cut short when he was trailering his boat out of town, or trying to, when he got pulled over and the cop cited him for trailer lights that were out and then instructed him to take his boat home until he got them fixed.

For my boat, I've created areas in my garage where all my boat stuff lives.  It's all right there, my soft and hard coolers, life vests, rain gear, everything I generally pack the day of the trip. That way I don't forget a thing.  I also have my lists that allow me to double check...especially, those easy to overlook items like boater's card, boat registration and fishing licenses. 

I do the same thing with all my gear.  It's marked and ready.  I have Spring Chinook tackle boxes; fall Chinook boxes; Buoy 10 boxes; bass boxes (several); trout boxes; sturgeon, etc.  Everyone of them is locked and loaded...that is, they're all ready to go.  I don't need to double check them because after decades of use they're as dialed in and complete as any you'll find anywhere.  I can just grab and go.  The reason I can is because of the organization I applied earlier...like getting everything ready now when the rivers are blown out, the weather's awful and we're still a couple weeks away from the sport show. 

Yes indeed, it's a great time to get organized...and trust me, it will pay big dividends when the seaon gets underway.  You'll be glad you did it now instead of waiting when there's a hundred other things to do OTHER than get organized.

 

It's Showtime!

January 11th, 2012

The Portland Boat Show comes to town this week, opening on the 11th and running through the weekend at the Portland Expo Center.  It's a wonderful way to get your year off on the right foot and take advantage of special boat show pricing and specials available only at the show.  For complete details visit: http://www.otshows.com/ 

Stevens Marine will again have the largest display of fishing boats in the show along with new Bluewater and Reinell models for 2012.  Make a point of stopping by and saying "hi" as you make your rounds.

Water conditions are very favorable right now for steelhead in many area tributaries including the Cowlitz, Clackamas, Sandy and most coastal streams.  It's expected to be somewhat dry this week which will drop rivers into low, clear condition which may make for tough fishing by the weekend.  Right now's prime time as conditions are optimum.  Cooler temperatures make drifting bait or backtrolling diver/bait combinations the best.

There's some catch-and-release sturgeon opportunity on the Willamette and Columbia...bundle up, it's cold in the mornings. 

 

Happy New Year!

January 3rd, 2012

Just back from the Wilson River...there's steelhead to be caught!  It's not "red-hot" but there's some decent fishing available from Siskeyville to Sollie Smith Bridge.  If you're new to the river I don't recommend you launch at Siskeyville.  First, just getting your boat down the slide requires some experience.  Next, there's a few sets of rapids that are a bit tricky to the uninitiated.  If you're new to the river the easier (and it can be very productive) drift is from Mills Bridge to Sollie Smith Bridge.  It's a good half day drift with lots of water to pull plugs, drift fish, side drift and fish jig and bobber combinations.

The Necanicum has been putting out its fair share of steelhead as well.  Not much buzz about it and for good reason...small stream that feels crowded with just a few people fishing it.

The Portland Boat Show opens next week on the 11th.  If you get to Stevens Marine this week you'll likely find what you're looking for at the "show special"....just sayin'. 

Keep an eye on area rivers.  When they fall back into shape it should be lights out fishing for fresh winter steelhead.  Both the Clackamas and Sandy Rivers were enjoying their first solid few days of fishing before the rains came and blew them out.  Expect both to be solid prospects the moment they begin to fish.

Good fishing and safe boating!

After The Rain...Steelhead!

December 28th, 2011

A number of northwest Oregon and southwest Washington rivers were producing steelhead but river levels were so low that getting a boat down the river (drift boat/rafts), let alone up the river (jet boats) was a virtual impossibility.  That's going to change this week.  Heavy rains are sure to blow area rivers out for a few days but by the weekend these rivers should be dropping into shape and plenty fishable.  Certainly, by early next week they'll be fishing beautifully. 

I made the rounds with a number of top pros today and learned volumes.  Pro Guide Clancy Holt has been on fire on the Cowlitz.  The fishing's been very good for him and his son Ron.  If you haven't fished the Cowlitz and you're curious Clancy's the guide you'll want to hire.  Clancy shared that limit catches have been the norm and the Cowlitz is living up to its reputation as a premium December / January river. 

Pro Guide Jack Glass shared that a few fish were being caught in the Sandy but it was so low that getting a drift boat from Oxbow Park down to Dabney or Lewis and Clark State Park were a real challenge.  That will end with these rains.  River levels are expected to climb dramatically but fall into shape by the weekend.  Fishing should be red hot.

Jack also let me know that he'd been testing the new Mag Lip 3.5 that's due to land in stores by February. He was trolling it in the Columbia and within 20 minutes of fishing this prototype a fresh 9 pound winter steelhead jumped on it.  He landed the fish and sent me a picture.  The new Mag Lip 3.5 dives to 14' with 70' of line out...and features Yakima Bait's unique "skip beat darting action".  This lure is the product of legendary steelhead and salmon angler Buzz Ramsey who developed the new size, and Professional Guide Bob Toman who was essential in testing and refining the new lure.  Bottomline --- this one's a winner.  I have a couple prototypes to test...hopefully it will be soon.

The Clackamas has been yielding a few fish as well.  Just like the Sandy expect this river to explode with action when it drops into shape.  Again, by the weekend more than likely.

There should be good fishing by the weekend up and down the coast.  I haven't received any fresh reports but there were fish being caught in a few streams pretty consistently a couple weeks ago.  My guess is there should be a nice shot of steelhead coming into the rivers this week.

The importance of boating safety can never be overstated. Please wear your PFD if you're boating...they only work if you wear them.

Good fishing and safe boating!

Last Minute Ideas + Weekend Opportunity

December 21, 2011

A trip to the Willamette River this morning proved to be pretty enlightening.  I watched one angler boat a steelhead free-drifting just upstream of the Clackamas River.  A gorgeous 8 to 10 pound hatchery fish that was so fresh it looked black-and-white as the elated anglers admired the fish before putting in the fish box.  Just downstream a boat was anchored enjoying the day-off as a couple other boats backtrolled plugs alongside the island.  There are fish to be caught and with decent weather forecast it's certainly worth a half day trip to do a little fishing. 

In another boat, a couple friends launched from Cedar Oaks headed downstream to Hog Island for sturgeon.  With 41 degree water they were somewhat hopeful that they'd find some fish to catch and release. "It's better than the 36 degree water I thought we were going to fish", one of the anglers shared.

There's been a steady stream of stories coming from the Cowlitz.  There's steelhead to be caught for sure...the closer you are to Blue Creek fish hatchery the better the catching is. Year-in and year-out, the Cowlitz, Sandy, Kalama, Elochoman and Lewis Rivers are all dependable winter steelhead prospects around Christmas.

Looking for some last minute Christmas ideas for your favorite boater or angler?  You'll never miss with a Ragg Wool stocking cap...great stocking stuffer!  The Guide to Fishing In Oregon by Flying Pencil Publications is another must-have for Oregon anglers.  Stevens Marine offers gift certificates...just go to the parts counter at either store and they'll get you set up for whatever amount you choose.  Giving a Stevens Marine gift certificate will put a smile on your favorite boaters face for sure.  Whether you're new to salmon and steelhead fishing or a seasoned veteran you'll appreciate Robert Campbell's book, "Illustrated Rigging: For Salmon, Steelhead and Trout."  You can find copies of this wonderful and complete rigging and fishing guide at any Fisherman's Marine & Outdoor location.  Another great stocking stuffer...LED lights that go on the bill of a baseball cap.  I recieved one of these last year and I've used it dozens of times since.  Handwarmers are always a good idea.  First aid kits, especially those really nice ones for use in a boat, are a great gift.  Inflatable PFD's (life vests) make a perfect gift for the boater in your life.  At $130 or so, they're not cheap but they'll get used which is what boating safety is all about. 

So with just a couple days left until the big guy begins sliding down chimneys there's plenty to do.  Merriest of Christmas'. 

 Good fishing and safe boating!

It's Good News For 2012!

December 14, 2011

The long-awaited run forecast was held yesterday --- our first collective peek at what lies ahead with NW Oregon / SW Washington fisheries.  The news is good...in some cases, very good.

Willamette spring Chinook, for example, are expected to be slightly up from last year --- another very solid run.  A bumper crop of Columbia River spring Chinook is forecast with the 4th largest run since 1938 predicted.

Summer steelhead should be as good or better than last year.  Buoy 10 should be about the same, maybe slightly down for silvers but still very good for kings. There's more, but the outlook at a glance is pretty rosy.

A couple important reminders.  There's good steelhead fishing ahead of us.  From Christmas until April the run will ebb and flow but mostly flow.  Participation is relatively low through the month of January but fishing is generally pretty good on the Clackamas, Sandy and most coastal rivers.  Just a week ago the Elochoman River in S.W. Washington was turning out some hefty numbers of steelhead...I mean incredible! Expect it to hold up all month long.  The Cowlitz has been good too.  Just ask Pro Guide Clancy Holt if you want a good report.

There's a decent run of springers on the Mollala and it's virtually unfished.  Enough said there.

And while I'm mentioning "springers" --- make 2012 the year you fish past May 10th.  Some of the best springer fishing is coming later in the season from mid-May to mid-June --- down in the Portland harbor on trolled herring. 

Summer chinook fishing should be very good again this year.  That's a mid-June to mid-July fishery with peak fishing occurring the last week of June and the first two weeks of July. 

After last summer I know I'll be spending more time anchored for steelhead in mid-July and through the first week or two of August.  It was really good last year when the fish finally arrived in July and stayed good for a couple of months.  There's plenty of great fishing close to Portland and I'm going to do my level-best to take full advantage of it.

So the news is good --- it was good last year and so was the fishing.  It probably wouldn't hurt to start making plans early, looking at tides and carving out the time you'll need to enjoy what should be another banner year of fishing in the Northwest.  Ah yes...so much to do and so little time to do it all....

Good fishing and safe boating!

Steelhead or salmon?

December 3rd, 2011

Now that the monsoon season has passed...at least for near future...rivers around N.W. Oregon and S.W. Washington are quickly dropping back into shape.

In a week they'll be low and clear.

There's a bumper crop of Chinook salmon down on the coast and spread through all the typical rivers --- Wilson, Trask, Nestucca --- and others.  All late arrivals, just like most of the salmon runs the past couple of years.  Also, expect to find some fresh, winter Chinook available down in Tillamook Bay.

Yakima Bait's new Hawg Nose Flatfish, a strapping 5 1/2" plug tailormade for fall Chinook that features bait wrap grooves, dives quickly and sports a unique "skip beat" action that salmon are inhaling, has proved particularly effective in a number of coastal rivers this past month.  If you buy only one color, make it the chrome and chartreuse, the gold standard among wigglers.

There's been some early reports of steelhead being caught down on the coast and some interior rivers and even a mention from ODFW that this year's steelhead run could be a boomer.  Although predicting steelhead run abundance is often a shot in the dark, Fish and Wildlife managers are optimistic given recent reports and early catches.  The North Fork Nehalem has been one early bright spot.  Fish have also been caught on the Sandy and Clackamas...although it's very early for both rivers. 

There's been a couple boats out on the Willamette backtrolling plugs in the area of the Garbage Hole down to Meldrum Bar. 

The signs are there...although I'd probably wait a couple more weeks before I'd spend much time chasing steelhead.  But that's just me....

A useful tip...morning temps can get downright bone chilling.  The same's true for salmon and steelhead.  Also, launching a boat locally or driving across the coast range can be downright dangerous if roads or launches ice up.  You're much better served to wait until it warms up. A sunny day can raise the water temp a degree or two which is all these fish need to wake up and start biting.  I like to start late this time of year.  I'll miss the crowds and often times enjoy better fishing.

If you plan to fish the Willamette, follow the same advice.  Wait until things warm up and if possible, time your trip to the turn of the tide from high tide to when it begins to run out.  Most days that outgoing tide is more productive than the incoming.  And yes, there is a tidal influence on the Willamette. 

A couple useful tips if you're plug fishing...sharp hooks, lots of scent and use colors the fish can see.  I really like the cerise with black bill Fatfish in the 1/4 ounce size.  Metallic gold is good, so is Mother of Pearl Black, Metallic Silver Red Herringbone, Pearlescent Pink and Cerise.

There's some fish around and fishing should continue to pick up through the month.

We'll keep an eye on it and let you know as opportunity improves.

Good fishing and safe boating!

 Happy Thanksgiving!

November 22nd, 2011

Heavy rains are expected to turn area rivers into raging torrents this week.  We'll see...

High water and rain won't affect the bite of sturgeon.  You can always go east to the Grande Ronde for steelhead...dress warm. You might want to spend a couple hours on a coastal lake fishing for trout between squalls.  What I'm saying is that if you look hard enough and far enough there are fish to catch.  The best bet in high water close to Portland is the Columbia River for sturgeon.  You'll still want to be mindful of debris that may be coming down the river if the water comes up as much as expected. Have a knife close-by in case you need to cut your anchor line.

If you're willing to travel a little further, I'd recommend the lower John Day River for steelhead.  There's also a few salmon around as well but steelhead are the primary target right now.  I like trolling Yakima Bait FatFish above the marine park.  The river is wide but the channel narrows as you continue upriver so be mindful of where you are and fish the channel. I like to run my plugs about 100' in back of the boat. Best Fatfish plug colors are purple, black with silver flake, cerise black bill, glitter pink and metallic red/black. Sharp hooks and scent (shrimp) are essential.  Be sure to keep your rods in the holder and parallel to the water. 10 pound test is ample.  Bobber and coon shrimp are also popular in this stretch as well. Be sure you keep your bait near the bottom...within a foot or two.

We'll certainly keep an eye on things and let you know if anything changes...if it does there should be loads of fish down on the coast and in the rivers.  Just this past weekend some dandy fish were caught.  Pro Guide Andy Martin boated a 65 pound King on the Chetco fishing a new Hawg Nose FlatFish by Yakima Bait.  It was one of several fish they caught on those plugs.  The Willapa River in the southwest corner of Washington produced some silvers and a very early winter steelhead for a gentleman casting spinners.

In looking at area river forecasts, NOAA is forecasting that coastal rivers are expected to crest Wednesday and begin dropping back into shape quickly going into the weekend.  The same for the Clackamas River where the river level will rise minimally but drop quickly going into the weekend.  Again, we'll watch it closely and let you know what we learn. 

Happiest of Thanksgivings!

Good fishing and safe boating!

Tillamook Bay Chinook

November 11, 2011

I've recieved several very dependable reports that Tillamook Bay is seeing a steady parade of Chinook coming into the bay.  Last week's North Coast Rendevous yielded over a hundred fish making it one of the most productive ever.  Trolled cut plug herring along the jetty, Coast Guard Hole, Ghost Hole, Bay City, Sheep's Corral and Memaloose are all good bets...that is --- fish can be found throughout the Bay and up into tidewater. Heavy rain is expected this weekend and will bring river levels up pulling fish into the rivers next week.  Expect some very good fishing by midweek in the Wilson, Trask and Kilchis Rivers.

Good fishing and safe boating!

What's Up For The Weekend?

November 9, 2011

With the forecast set for rain this weekend, it may be enough to dampen the spirits of the most hardy enthusiasts.  But there's honestly good fishing opportunity to tout as we close in on the last hurrah for many fisheries around the region.

Crabbing is peaking right now and will continue to peak until Thanksgiving.  Shortly thereafter it's the commercial crabbers turn and they're pretty good at catching, making it tough on us non-commercial crabbers.  So get it while the gettings good.  I like the area out of Hammond.  Be prepared for inclement weather and be sure to wear your PFD at all times.  with a 1:00 PM high tide forecast that makes for a pretty easy day.  There's a 6' exchange from low to high tide and then a much bigger tide (over 9') on the outgoing.  That means you'll want to time your trip to start about 11:30 and crab no later than about 2 PM.  When the tide starts to run out it's going to be strong.  I prefer to use chicken thighs for bait...they work great.

There's still some fish (Chinook) being caught in Tillamook Bay.  The season's just about over but it's still worthwhile.  Cut plug herring anywhere you're fishing in the bay is the top bet.

I saw one of the most impressive catches of largemouth bass I've seen in a long time this past week.  This will likely be the last weekend for any productive bass fishing but now is the time!  Lakes like Dorena Reservoir are ripe right now for lots of big bass. Fish deep diving or lipless crankbaits where it breaks into deep water.  At Dorena there's a distinct creek channel on the east side of the lake and a stump field just to the south of that channel.  There should be fish feeding up for winter there.  The same is true for Fall Creek and Cottage Grove Reservoirs as well.  In the Portland area there may still be some life left in the smallmouth fishery this weekend...but this weekend should be the end of it.

The Columbia from Wauna Powerlines to Bonneville is open to the take of sturgeon Thursday, Friday and Saturday.  Double check the regs before setting out.  The Willamette is closed to retention.

Good fishing and safe boating!

Winterize Now

November 2nd, 2011

The frost is on the pumpkin and it won't be long before the first hard freeze hits us.  You're well-advised, if you haven't already, to fully winterize your boat now. If you plan to use it through the winter there are still some steps you should take to protect your boat and power.  Small things like removing the drain plug and making sure all the water is drained out of the bilge of your boat.  Freezing weather can damage your bilge pump, stringers, floorboards and other infrastucture if water's left standing in your boat.  Opening the petcocks on your inboard is essential to allow water to drain from the manifold and storing your outboard in a vertical position so that water has fully drained from the lower unit is an important precaution. 

The good folks at Stevens Marine can certainly help you and provide full winterization services and supplies.  Give them a call if you need advice or assistance.

Also, there are plenty of online resources to help guide you through basic boat maintenance.  For example, www.takemefishing.org is one valuable resource you may want to check out.  Go to the "boating" tab, then "boat basics" and finally, "storage and maintenance" area...you'll find everything you need there.

When it comes to winterization and basic boat maintenance, "an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure" is so true.  Don't wait, at least check either the petcocks or the position of your outboard motor today and then plan to complete the entire maintenance/winterization regimen as soon as possible.

Good fishing and safe boating!

Weekend Update

October 28th, 2011

Salmon, crab, trout and sturgeon top the fishing opportunity list going into the weekend.

Expect good to very good crabbing this weekend just out of Hammond.  Some words of caution first then detailed info to follow.

Last weekend, a group of guys went out crabbing in a small boat out of Hammond, got caught by some strong waves, capsized and fought for their lives.  Fortunately, no one was killed but they spent hours in the water, and several more on an island on the Washington side waiting for help.  The lesson they ALL learned was they were never going out in the Columbia again without wearing their life vests.  None of them had them on, it made their ordeal even more critical and they all feel lucky and fortunate to have survived it.  Lesson 1 - if you come out of the Hammond Harbor and it's whitecapping it 's probably not a good idea to go crabbing.  Lesson 2 - you don't need to go far from the harbor to catch crab. Lesson 3 - ALWAYS wear your PFD's in the Columbia...no exceptions.  Lesson 4 - small boats and big water don't mix.  Even a 16' open boat is under-gunned when there's chop...when it's flat it's fine but still, stay close to the harbor just in case the wind comes up and the river gets rough. Lesson 5 - ALWAYS file a float plan.  Let people know where you're going and when you're going to be back.  It's important they know where you're launching, how many people are in the boat and any important/relevant details regarding the boat (i.e. length, make, etc.).  It only takes a couple minutes and it's cheap insurance if anything goes awry.

These "lessons" apply to any of the bays...hard running tides along the Oregon Coast are deceptively dangerous. Be prepared and exercise good sense, caution and the respect these waters are due.

Now for the details...

I like taking a left out of Hammond and going downriver just a few hundred yards.  There's a small wing dam/row of cut-off pilings and I throw my traps in 30' of water.  If it's 32' or 35' that's fine.  I've found that I catch fewer undersized in deeper water.  Pitching your traps in 10' to 15' of water often yields lots of undersized crab.  Over the years I've used all kinds of baits.  I've come to rely on chicken thighs.  They're oily, cheap and effective.  A "value-pack" of thighs is often under $6.  Two value packs of thighs will bait 4 or 5 traps two or three times.  Crab seem to run to the trap when they're baited with fresh chicken thighs (another misgiving is that the bait has to be gross and rotten...not true).  Next, I begin soaking my traps about an hour to an hour and a half ahead of high tide.  So if the tide is around 3:00 PM, the traps will go in at 1:30, I'll check them at 2, 2:30, 3:00, 3:30 and then I'm done...if I'm lucky I'll get one more soak to 4 until the tide turns and starts to run out.   My goal is to be out of the water when the tide turns.   So yes, I try to check my traps every 30 minutes or so.  This has proved to be ample time with traps, if I'm using rings then it's every 15 minutes or so.  I've had 30 minute soaks where a generously baited trap was picked clean!  Be sure to use plenty of bait...that's the key to catching crab.

There's some good tides this weekend in Tillamook Bay.  Fish the incoming along the jetty and in the front of the bay to the Ghost Hole. When the tide turns and starts to run out then it's up to Bay City, the Picket Fence, Sheep's Corral, West Channel and Memaloose.  Cut plug herring's been working well.

Fish are still being caught below Bonneville Dam.  You may have to sort through a few to find a bright one but they're still around even though the run is winding down fast.  Yakima Bait's new Hawg Nose has been wildly effective.  Be sure to use a sardine wrap and dress the hooks to a needle sharp point with a file. 

Most lakes around the state close on October 31st to trout so you may want to take advantage of the last weekend to bag some late season rainbows.  Diamond Lake, east of Roseburg, continues to be the state's trout factory. Lots of big fish continue to be taken.  There are dozens and dozens of great lakes to choose from including Detroit, Fall Creek, Dorena, Crane Prairie and many others.

Plenty to do this weekend...take advantage of it before winter sets in, slows things down and limits the opportunities.

Whatever you choose to do or wherever you go always make a point of reviewing the regulations before soaking your traps or wetting a line.

Good fishing and safe boating!

 

No Let Up In Outstanding Opportunities

October 24th, 2011

Crabbing continues to be "excellent" out of Hammond.  You won't have to go far.  Come out of the harbor, take a left, head west about half a mile or so, and drop your traps on the end of the incoming tide and let them soak (if they're traps and not rings) for about 30 minutes in 30' to 35' of water.  If you're using rings you'll want to check them every 15 to 20 minutes.  Chicken works great.  Buy the cheap family pack of thighs and you'll be go to go.  Ideally, you'll want to have your traps soaking about an hour to an hour and a half ahead of high tide, through the high tide and into the first 15 minutes to half hour of the outgoing.  After that, especially if there's a tidal exchange of more than 5 feet, you'll want your traps out, otherwise they can either get buried or lost to the tide. 

Be sure to wear your PFD's when setting traps or pulling them.  Accidents happen and if they do you'll want to be prepared.

Salmon fishing has been very good down in Tillamook. Several boats found limits this past weekend.  A great sign that this season's forecast for a larger return is materializing as planned.

The Deschutes is still producing steelhead.  You'll find fresh fish in the lower river but in a week or so the attention will turn upriver above Shearer's Falls all the way to Warm Springs.  Still, bright steelhead will be availalble in the lower river all the way to Christmas. 

Remember, it's open for retaining sturgeon above Wauna Powerlines to Bonneville Dam, Thursday, Friday and Saturday.  I haven't received any fresh reports from late last week but the week before, fishing had been very good.  Double check the regulations before heading out.  The lower Willamette River is closed to sturgeon retention but open to catch-and-release.

This very well may be the last good week for catching bass in the Willamette and Columbia Rivers.  I'm giving serious consideration to taking some time to check a few of my favorite fall spots in the lower Willamette later this week.  Water temperatures are still favorable but with chilly evenings forecast this week that will change quickly and it won't be long until the bite shuts down as bass slow down and go into their winter mode until next spring.

Last, but certainly not least, if you're considering storing your boat for any length of time be sure to stabilize the fuel.  Now is a great time to winterize your boat...don't wait until everything freezes and run the risk of damaging your engine or boat.

Good fishing and safe boating!

Fall Fishing Action Continues

October 13th, 2011

I've made the rounds this week talking to fisherman from around the region and there's still plenty going on to satisfy any self-respecting N.W. angler.

The weather's expected to moderate and even warm a little going into next week.  That should stabilize rivers and make for excellent crabbing in coastal bays and estuaries this weekend.  Crabbing's been very good in the Columbia out of Hammond, Tillamook Bay, Nehalem Bay and I've even had a few good reports come in from Netarts Bay.  Tides look O.K. for the weekend with a mid-afternoon high.  That means you'll need to get your crab, get them cleaned/processed and get them home for your dinner crab feed.

Tillamook Bay is fishing and now's the time to get out there and wet a line.  Fish are spread throughout the bay.  I prefer fishing herring everywhere in the bay except in the shallow water areas (6' deep or less) where I'll switch to spinners.   If you opt for spinners be sure to hold the rod and set the hook if the line goes slack (aka - "slack line bite). Also, you'll want to get the spinners away from the boat, at least 20' or 30' feet, so adjust your lead accordingly.  Generally and ounce or two is all that needed depending on the tide.

The Cowlitz has some fish in it.  So does the Lewis which is an outstanding October fishery for silvers and silver jacks. Free-drifted or backtrolled eggs are both top tactics.

The Clearwater River in Idaho (it enters the Snake at Lewiston) is on fire.  Just received a report a few minutes ago of 25 fish in the boat yesterday and today by friends of mine fishing up there right now.  Free-drifting eggs has been lethal, bobber jig fishing is good and backtrolled plugs work well too.  The river follows the road so there's lots of bank access from Lewiston to Orofino. 

"It's some of the best oversize sturgeon action I've ever had", commented one angler I talked to.  They were fishing up in the gorge by Beacon Rock and had hooked a number of oversized that they quickly got to the boat and released.  Smelt works great if you can find it, squid has been a strong choice for bait too.  The Columbia is now open to the retention of Sturgeon, Thurs. - Sat. above Wauna Powerlines to Bonneville Dam.  Check the regs for complete details related to limits, measuring and size.

Both the Clackamas and Sandy Rivers have silvers in them.  All methods work but I enjoy fishing eggs under a bobber in the long pools.  It can be very good when the water's on the fall like it is right now.  When it gets low and clear I like drift fishing small, trout-sized, Dick Nite spoons in the 50/50 finish (brass/nickel).

Yakima Bait's new Hawg Nose is a winner.  If you can find them (they've just landed in local tackle stores) buy them...they work.  We've been fishing them below Bonneville Dam with good results.  You should be able to flatline backtroll them in the Wilson, Trask, Siletz and Nestucca --- they dive to 20'.  Be sure they're wrapped with fresh sardine.

The lower Deschutes is still pumping out fresh, chrome bright summer steelhead.  Spinners, jigs, plugs, spoons and drift fished Corkies or Spin-N-Glo's are all producing. 

The Grande Ronde from Troy downstream to Boggan's Oasis is loaded with steelhead.  All the regular methods produce here and there's ample bank access.  Be sure your gas tank's full...there's no gas (at least there wasn't last time I was there) for about 30 miles.

And to think, this is just the tip of the iceberg...there's fall bass, walleye and trout fishing a plenty as well! With moderating temps the Willamette and Columbia should produce some nice late season action for smallmouth bass and walleye. There's probably another week or two of great trout fishing in store around the state. 

Good fishing and safe boating!

More Good News!

October 5th, 2011

Sturgeon season re-opens this week from Wauna Powerlines to Bonneville.  Thursday, Friday and Saturdays from October 1st to December 31st.  Sturgeon fishing's been very good!  Lots of oversize fish were caught and released over the weekend which should make for some interesting opportunity these next few weeks and through the end of the year.

Tillamook Bay's picked up considerably.  I just receieved a report from a top guide saying, "the fish have arrived and fishing's good."  The incoming is still the best tide to avoid excessive weed problems.  Cut plug herring is far and away the bait of choice.

Crabbing has been outstanding and there appears to be no-end in sight.  My brother and a couple of his friends were out Monday and boated dozens of crab in just a couple hours in Astoria. They used salmon heads and the crab came running!  I understand the same is true in Tillamook and Nehalem Bays.

Chinook fishing continues to plod along below Bonneville Dam.  There's been some very good days and some stinkers...just depends if you're there the day those fish are in a mood to bite.  Yakima Bait's new Hawg Nose is quickly earning a reputation as a premium king salmon catcher...guides and enthusiasts are racking up some pretty impressive numbers backtrolling these new plugs.

Finally, expect the Deschutes to be the go-to river for steelhead this month.  It should be very good through the entire month.  Cast spinners, drift jigs or toss plugs...they'll all work right now.

Good fishing and safe boating!

Fall Fishing In Full Swing

October 2nd, 2011

The fishing's changing with the seasons.  Silvers are in the Cowlitz, Lewis, Sandy and Clackamas.  The best fishing seems to be in the Cowlitz right now but expect a mix of jacks and adult silvers to flood into the Lewis any day.  Drifted or back-trolled eggs are a top choice for these fish.

Crabbing continues to be outstanding in Hammond (Columbia estuary), Tillamook and Nehalem Bays. 

There's some great late season trout fishing to be found at Diamond Lake.  Plunked powerbait is best but all tactics work.  There should be some rightouesly big rainbows available.

There's still a couple weeks of really good smallmouth fishing in the lower Willamette and Columbia Rivers.  Crankbaits and plastics are top bets.  Use red crawdad crankbaits to find active fish and then follow-up with 4" and 6" plastic worms or 4" grubs in pumpkinseed, smoke, silver sparkle or blue Ringworms with a chartreuse tail.

Salmon fishing's held up well below Bonneville Dam.  Anchored boats and backtrollers are finding fish on Yakima Bait's new Hawg Nose fished on a 5' leader behind a Jumbo Jet Diver.  Sardine-wraps are the standard in this fishery.  Be careful, there's lots of water and strong current.  If you anchor be sure you know how in this speed of water...it's definitely not for novices. 

Tillamook Bay has been best on the incoming tide...the further into the tide the better.  The outgoing has been nearly impossible to fish with all the weeds coming through the bay.  The jetty, Garibaldi and Ghost Hole have all been productive but there are fish throughout the bay.

There's still lots of steelhead around.  The best fishing continues to on the Deschutes.  Several jet boaters have had some serious problems on the Deschutes this season.  Several serious impacts with the bottom.  This is not a river for new jet boaters or one that you should run without some training by a guide or highly experienced Deschutes jet-boater.  Expect the fishing to hold up all the way to Christmas with peak fishing through the month of October.

If you're boating season is over now's the time to winterize.  It should be awhile before the first hard freeze but getting your fuel stabilized is important if your boat will be out of action for more than a couple months.  If it is, you're well-advised to have it winterized now and get it done.

Good fishing and safe boating!

Fishing & Crabbing At The Coast

September 26, 2011

There's quite a bit of fishing available around the state.  If you've kept up with recent posts not much has changed with the exception of Buoy 10 which appears to be winding down.  Still, it was an amazing season that produced some exceptional fishing right up until late last week.  Crabbing's still outstanding out of Hammond and there's likely to be a few more pushes of fresh salmon coming into the Columbia but it's going to be hit and miss for most.

When the weather breaks and winds subside Nehalem Bay and Tillamook Bay should be red hot.  There's still quite a few in the Nehalem system (crabbing's really good there too) and I recevied some very good reports this morning on Tillamook Bay with solid catches logged over the weekend (primarily Friday/Saturday).

Really, most anywhere you go in the state there's good fishing available.  Get it while the gettin's good because change is in the air and the full force of fall is upon us. 

The kokanee fishery is over as these little salmon turn color in preparation for their migration out of area lakes and into small streams to spawn.  They're certainly fun to watch though.  The streams that feed Odell Lake make for some great viewing of this annual event.

There's still several good weeks of fishing left in Central Oregon.  Crane Prairie, Lava and Davis Lakes are all good choices.  I like Davis (fly only) for its bass fishing which should be excellent right now as these fish sense the onset of winter and feed heavily and with reckless abandon.  Crane Prairie is a good choice for big trout and Lava for really nice fat rainbows.

Further east to the Grande Ronde you'll find steelhead, lots of trout and an occasional smallmouth...but mostly trout and steelhead. The area from Boggan's Oasis to Troy has considerable bank access. The Deschutes should continue to deliver some very good steelhead fishing as well.

I like the lower John Day right now for smallmouth bass. In fact, from "The Narrows" in the John Day to the mouth of the John Day and upriver in the Columbia to Arlington...right now is prime time for catching trophy-sized smallmouth.  Cover water with a crankbait fishing points, boulder patches, old roadbeds and backwater areas.  When you find fish, slow it down with either a small brown jig or 4" plastic worm in pumpkinseed, smoke, chartreuse or red.  I like to use lots of crawdad scent with whatever I fish.

Finally, be careful out there. If you're in a boat, particularly in the bays, near the jetties and in the Columbia be sure to wear your PFD.  I watched a guy this past weekend standing on the bow of a boat, taking pictures of his friend landing a salmon while the boat pitched from side-to-side --- he wasn't wearing a life vest.  Things happen fast and that's how lives are lost.  I frankly couldn't believe what I was watching.  Another boat was nearly capsized as they ventured too close to big curling swells that broke across their boat.  Please be careful and don't underestimate the power and danger of our rivers and lakes in the N.W.

Good fishing and safe boating!

Pick Your Pleasure!

September 20, 2011

There's some pretty incredible fishing opportunities available right now.  If you've been following the previous posts you know about the smallmouth fishing in the Columbia and Willamette; and trout in the upper Willamette and Cascades. In either case you'll enjoy some premium, uncrowded fishing right now. 

The Columbia remains the focal story though.  Fish are STILL being caught at Buoy 10.  Pro Guide David Johnson continues to log quick limits with full boats of customers.  It's open to Chinook and Coho which makes this a particularly attractive fishery.  Crabbing's been very good too.

Upriver, below Bonneville, fishing continues to pick up with steady catches coming from anchored boats and backtrollers.  This is a very challenging fishery because the velocity of the water is so strong.  It requires specialized anchoring knowledge and gear if you elect to plunk, and for backtrollers it's equally challenging knowing where to fish and how to fish the area.  Still, for those in the know expect the fishing to get better with each passing day.

Yakima Bait's new Hawg Nose is winning favor among backtrollers and anchor fishermen.  Designed by Buzz Ramsey this Chinook salmon-sized plug is ideal for fall salmon as it dives deep and has a unique action that appears to be a hit with fall Chinook.  Local tackle stores are just getting their first shipments of Hawg Nose Flatfish.

The Deschutes has been very good for steelhead.  Both for trollers off the mouth and up in the canyon.  In the river, cast Fatfish plugs in metallic red, gold, pink and purple.  Some prefer a Side Planer which is another effective way to fish plugs, cover water and catch steelhead on the Deschutes. Certainly, spoons, spinners, jigs and even small Spin-N-Glo's or drift fished Corkies (no bait is allowed on the Deschutes) work as well.  It's nearly fall and with the changing season comes peak fishing on the Deschutes.  If you elect to troll out in the Columbia, tie on a Fatfish in the referenced colors and pay out about 100' of line. Be sure to use lots of shrimp/steelhead scent.

Crabbing's been very good too in Tillamook Bay and Nehalem Bay.  Expect it to stay that way from now until the commercial season starts in December. There's fish to be caught in Nehalem Bay and Tillamook Bay's just getting started but expect a good return this year.

No doubt, there's plenty to do right now...pick your pleasure and enjoy!

Good fishing and safe boating!

"Salmon Everywhere" & More!

September 15, 2011

It could easily be a page out of a Batman comic, "holy smoked reel drags Batman"!

Salmon are everywhere right now! Buoy 10 is on fire as guides and the few remaining recreational anglers that are fishing have been racking up some big numbers. Red and white spinners on divers or lead along Desdemona Sands on either the Washington or Oregon side has been the ticket.  In some cases, once the fish turn-on and bite, it's been a free-for-all as coho jump on the first spinner they see often making it difficult to get all the rods out.

September in Astoria is, without a doubt, one of the most overlooked and unsung fishing opportunities you'll find anywhere.  It's epic fishing but most ignore the opportunity thinking the season's over. And now that Buoy 10 re-opens to the harvest of Chinook on the 16th the ante's been upped considerably with this year's strong run of kings throughout the system.

The season is far from over.

Not great tides for this weekend. If the wind lays down it's a late morning and afternoon show for sure.  With a trip planned for Saturday further upriver I'm trying to figure when I'm leaving Tualatin for the coast and the right tide.  I figure if I'm in the water at Hammond around 10 I'll be fine...even 11 will work --- no rush, the bite's best on the turn of the tide which is in the afternoon.

Lower Nehalem Bay opens today and should provide some excellent opportunity this weekend.  Fish are spread throughout the system but right now is prime time and there's been some good catches upriver.  Use anything just so long as it's blue label cut-plug herring.

Crabbing continues to be outstanding in Tillamook and Nehalem Bays as well as the Columbia estuary.

If you're looking for some off-the-beaten path fishing opportunity you may want to try your hand at Willamette or Columbia River smallmouth.  Depending on what the wind does I'd look to Cascade Locks upriver to Hood River as an option.  It can be very good right now.  Also, anywhere above The Dalles Dam.  Crawdad crankbaits in red, trout crankbaits and shad patterned Rattle Traps are all good bets.  Of course plastics are fine, topwaters and jigs but you'll want to cover water and a crankbait can be just the ticket.

The Lower Columbia Re-Opens On The 16th!

September 13, 2011

Get your rods and reels ready to go...Buoy 10 to Tongue Point will re-open to Chinook on September 16th!  This is huge news as king salmon continue to pour into the system.  Fishing should be very good this coming weekend and beyond.  Tongue Point to Warrior Rock also has a short re-opener.  It's due to re-open September 16th, 17th, and 18th! The limit is two salmon or steelhead in combination.  Silvers have to be adipose clipped, Chinook do not.  More fish and a longer season!

There's also been good news coming in from other areas.  Great crabbing continues in Tillamook and Nehalem Bays.  Chinook fishing is good in Nehalem and getting started in Tillamook.

Deschutes River steelhead fishing has picked up considerably...now's the time to be fishing the lower 10 miles.  Plugs, spinners, spoons and jigs are all working.

And if you want to escape the crowds head to the high country...falling temps should have those fish biting nicely through the month. Cover water with black 1/6 ounce Roostertails.

Good fishing and safe boating!

Buoy 10 Rolls On & More!

September 6th, 2011

There's certainly no shortage of fishing opportunity.  The Columbia's producing from one end to the other. Nehalem Bay crabbing is on fire.  Deschutes steelhead have finally arrived in what appears to be big numbers. And there's plenty of lowland lake fishing available throughout the state.

Buoy 10, though a little slow a week ago picked up over the weekend posting good catches of silver and Chinook salmon.  The Chinook had to be released as the river closed below Tongue Point to the take of kings. Silver salmon can be kept and there seemed to be good action for those who worked the tides.  The best tide to key in on is the last two hours of high through high slack and about 2 hours on the outgoing.  Toman hoochie spinners in red and white have been outstanding.

Upriver, anglers were having a hey day as thousands of boats descended on the river to stake their spot and fish wobblers in the hopes of finding a willing Chinook on the outgoing tide.  Several were very successful.  Oregonian outdoor writer, Bill Monroe, had a fabulous day with his son, wife and friends as they limited out.  Many others followed suit.  The stronger the current on the outgoing tide the better the bite.

Upriver, below Bonneville Dam, a few anglers found fish using Yakima Bait's new Hawg Nose Flatfish wrapped with a sardine.  This is a difficult fishery to master but those that have do well in this challenging water.

Still further upriver, steelhead are being caught at the mouth of nearly every tributary.  Cool evening temps have lowered the temperature of many rivers pulling steelhead into their refreshing plume as they migrate up the Columbia.  Trolled Fatfish in metallic pink, metallic red, metallic copper and black with silver glitter are all good choices. I highly recomend the liberal use of scent products for this, or any steelhead fishery.

Nehalem Bay was fair for fishing but red hot for crabbing.  Lots of limits this past weekend which bodes well for fall crabbing up and down the coast.

The Deschutes is producing very well right now.  Hard to believe that just a month ago guides and anglers were having difficulty catching anything in the river...now, it appears that it's full of fresh, hard-fighting Deschutes steelhead.  Spinners, spoons, jigs and plugs all work.

And while fires ravage the Cascades you might be well-served to enjoy some of the fishing that's available in the Willamette Valley.  Lakes like Foster, Fall Creek, Detroit and others all hold trout and can be ultra-productive this time of year. Maybe a float down the Willamette is more your speed --- there you'll find bass in the lower reaches from Salem downriver to Newberg and from Eugene to Peoria it's a haven for trout. 

As is always the case...please be careful and wear your PFD (life vest) if you're going boating or wading in any river system.  Recent drowning deaths are an unfortunate but vivid reminder of just how dangerous local waters can be. 

Good fishing and safe boating!

Weekend Update...

September 1st, 2011

If you're like me you may be still be narrowing down your options for the weekend.

Chinook fishing in the Columbia downriver of St. Helens should be very good.  This is a wobbler fishery where names like Alvin, Clancy, Brad's, Corn and others dominate. The trick here is going to be traffic.  Expect long lines at the launches in Rainier, Longview, Westport, John Day and any of the other put-ins up to St. Helens.  Anglers that know this fishery will get in the water at dark, motor to their spot (be sure to have your navigation lights on), drop anchor and wait until the tide turns hours later.

Tides look good through the weekend with a good morning outgoing to fish. 

You'll want to fish deeper water with wobblers.  You'll see many favoring water 30' to 40' deep.  The challenge here is that in many places that will put you in the main channel of navigation and right in the way of freighter traffic.  Be careful! These large ocean-going transports take a mile or more to stop and they have the right-of-way. 

Sharp hooks (I prefer Gamakatsu trebles), scent and "tuning" your wobbler are essential. Tuning requires that you adjust the spoon by bending it slightly to assure it has a strong back-and-forth swimming motion in the current you're fishing.  That's critical.  If it's spinning, it won't get bit. If the wobble is tight or slight...not good either.  A wobbler should wobble --- a lot --- proper tuning assures it's running right and effectively.

Ideally, you'll find a spot that's relatively open and available.  In reality, you'll see the "good spots" occupied by hundreds of boats lined up in hoglines across the river in row-after-row of boats.  The mouth of the Cowlitz is one such spot.

If you're interested in beating the crowds you may want to drop your pick upriver closer to St. Helens.  There's a few launches in the area that will require a short boat ride to the fishing but it's more likely you'll avoid crowding in this area than you will downriver.

Steelhead are also being caught in Drano Lake, Wind River and the mouth of the White Salmon.  I've had some outstanding days fishing this time of year in the lower White Salmon slow trolling flourescent red U20 Flatfish.  It's an easy rig.  Pinch a size 7 split shot about 20" to 24" ahead of your Flatfish, douse the Flatfish in scent and troll so slow that the rod tip pulses at a rate of about two a second.  You'll have to launch in Hood River to fish there (right across the river) but it's worth it when the fish cooperate.

Who knows, I may pull together a trip to Astoria and target silvers. It's been slim pickin's but this time of year you never know.  A wad of fish can come in on the tide and it's gang-busters for a few days. 

I'm still weighing my options and you may be doing the same.  The good news is there's plenty of outstanding fishing to pursue.

By the way...just got word that a few Chinook have shown in Tillamook Bay...

Good fishing and safe boating!

Round Two

August 30th, 2011

Anyone that caught the afternoon tide this past week and weekend at Buoy 10 p