Buoy 10 Opens Sunday!
July 29th, 2010
With more than 600,000 Chinook and 250,000 silvers (rough numbers) expected to show this year, Buoy 10 should be a fishing free-for-all! It opens Sunday and if this year's anything like last it should open with a bang. We caught limits the first weekend out and never looked back.
Already, limits of Chinook are being taken out of Westport on the Washington coast. The season's been fabulous so far in the ocean.
High slack is around 7AM on Sunday and after 8 on Monday. That means the tide will be running out through the morning but the exchanges are minimal, only a couple feet which should make fishing conditions tolerable down in the Ilwaco area where the the heart of the action will most likely be. You'll have an incoming tide all afternoon both days. That's the tide to hit if the wind doesn't blow hard.
Buzz Ramsey is hosting a Buoy 10 seminar this evening at Fisherman's Marine & Outdoor at 6 PM that will provide all the details you need to be successful. If you miss that, Luhr Jensen produces a Tech Report that should be available at Fisherman's and a number of other tackle retailers through the month.
Be sure to check back to this forecast regularly for firsthand reports and updates as the season progresses.
There was a heck of a bite below Bonneville last weekend for summers. Some anglers found fresh steelhead, lots of them, in selected areas between the dam and The Fishery. Small spinners were the ticket. Use a 3' lead line, 5' leader.
The Deschutes was slow for steelhead last weekend but is expected to pick-up considerably with cooler water temperatures this week.
The Cowlitz has been steady and producing limit catches of summer steelhead for most guides. Expect pressure to drop considerably with the opening of Buoy 10. You'll likely have the river all to yourself once you clear the Blue Creek area.
Good fishing and safe boating!
Boating The Willamette
July 22, 2010
Yesterday I was asked to join my friend Grant McOmie of KGW news for a boat ride down the Willamette River for a story Grant's working on. The ride and time on the water reminded me what a special and wonderful place the Willamette is. I put my boat in at Willamette Park about an hour before Grant arrived and motored upriver to Gladstone. At a cruise, maybe 30 mph, at 9 AM the water was flat calm with just a couple other power boats out and the look from the water was enchanting. With thick clouds overhead I needed my jacket on but it was a pleasant and comfortable ride.
I was impressed by the number of kayaks, sculls, sailboats and row boats on the water. Particularly around Willamette Park and Oaks Park, platoon-after-platoon of kayaks launched in groups of 10 to 15 or more all paddling towards Ross Island. At least a couple of the groups were owned by kids, grade-schoolers out to enjoy the river from water-level. I was careful to take my boat off of plane and idle by them so they could enjoy their boating experience like I was enjoying mine.
By the time I slipped below the Ross Island Bridge the river was all mine again. Not a boat in sight...for an hour...not one. Pretty incredible given the fact that the Willamette below the Oregon City Falls is the most popular stretch of boating water in the state. Pretty inredible given the fact that more than a million people live in the area. Pretty incredible given the fact it's the middle of summer. Pretty incredible as thousands of cars rushed around me in morning traffic.
The lesson learned is that this river can be all yours too. Get out during the week, take a day off, go early and just cruise. There's lots of wildlife, sights and quiet water to enjoy. I was impressed, which is no easy feat. I'll be in Alaska soon boating, have boated these waters my entire life and continue to explore new and untamed waters around the country, yet this stretch of water has something none of the others do and you have to experience it firsthand to draw your own conclusions. This trip from the Falls downriver to the mouth and beyond is something special. It's close, diverse and compelling. Put it on your list and treat yourself to a remarkable boating experience and see the world you've grown used to from water level. It's worth the trip and well-worth your time.
Make sure you wear your PFD while underway and keep an eye out for dead heads. They weren't a problem for me but they can be. Also, know the rules of the road. Be aware that there's several in-river hazards, most are marked up and down the river. Finally, there's a helpful guide that's well-worth downloading, it's produced by the Oregon State Marine Board and it's called, "The Willamette River Recreation Guide" you'll find it online at the Marine Board's website, www.boatoregon.com or you can go directly to the publication using this link: http://www.boatoregon.com/OSMB/library/docs/WillametteRiverGuidePDF.pdf
Good fishing and safe boating!
Steelhead Top The List...
July 18th, 2010
Columbia Basin steelhead are still at the top of the prospect list if you live in N.W. Oregon or S.W. Washington. The Columbia's already pushed over 112,000 steelhead past Bonneville Dam at a pace of 5,000 to 7,000 fish a day! With counts outrunning last years totals this year's return could top the 625,000 mark that was set last year! That means lots of fish are still expected and will continue to pour in through July and August.
Steelhead are being caught up by Bonneville Dam but the sleeper fishery that should deliver big results is the area of river between Longview and Cathlamet. I provided details of how to fish this section of river in my previous post last week. This week and next week there's some great morning tides but you'll need to get there early. Check out the NOAA river levels for Longview if you want specific timing. You'll want to fish on the outgoing tide on anchor.
In addition to the details shared in my July 9th post, sandshrimp with a Spin-N-Glo, small spinners, prawn tails with a small spinner blade ahead of it...will all work well while the tide's running out.
The beauty of fishing this area of the Columbia is that it's easy to anchor, you're in relatively shallow water out of the navigation channel and it's close to Portland. There's truly untapped water off the mouth of the Lewis, Kalama and Cowlitz rivers that are worth checking out too. The cooler outflow from these rivers will congregate upriver bound steelhead.
There's sturgeon to catch in the estuary. The season on the Columbia has been extended through July because of slow catches. Guides reported few ocean fish in the estuary because the feed had been flushed out of the river by high flows. With moderating flows the feed is back and sturgeon fishing is picking up. Expect it to improve through the month.
If you're looking to do something a little out of the usual try this. How about trolling for trout in tidewater? Cutthroat trout fishing is open on the coast and there's lots of tidewater options available up and down the coast that produce cutthroat. Indiana or Colorado spinner and worm combos will catch fish. So will trolled streamer flies like Clouser Minnows, Muddler Minnows, Spruce flies, sculpin patterns and leeches. I've done well with Bolo spinners which are out of production...but if you have some, fish them.
Of course, there's still plenty of opportunity for walleye, smallmouth bass and panfish. Most area lakes in the Willamette valley and coast are filled with warmwater species.
Diamond Lake has reported an outbreak of blue-green algae. There's a health advisory that's been issued. The lake is fine to fish but you're encouraged to not eat the skin. The advisory is expected to be lifted soon. Fishing's been outstanding with limit catches as the norm.
Good fishing and safe boating!
Columbia River Steelhead Are On The Move!
July 9th, 2010
Make no doubt about it, 2010 will go down as a banner year for steelhead. Early returns are outpacing last years counts which resulted in a historic high return of steelhead up the Columbia. That means anglers from Astoria to Lewiston and beyond have something big to look forward to --- and it's just getting started!
This run will continue to build into September so now's a great time to get out, on the front edge of the run, while the water's still relatively cool and take advantage of some burgeoning action.
The place to be this weekend and early next week is anywhere in the lower Columbia from Longview to Cathlamet. Early morning tides are favorable with strong outgoing tides starting on Saturday and continuing through the week. Check the NOAA river level forecast to see when the water's running out but for Saturday and Sunday it's an early morning, morning show. The tide will slow down by noon or earlier and it will be over. As you get into next week, the tides will be later running into the afternoon by mid-week. Coolling outside temperatures should keep the water under 70 next week. If the water temperatures get close to 70 you'll want to fish deeper water (no more than 20').
There are several islands between these two Washington riverside towns. Anchor on the lower end, in 12' to 14' of water with K9 Kwikfish in flourescent red, blue pirate, gold green pirate, gold firetop, black holo glitter or skunk are all good patterns. Hot shots work, so do Wiggle Warts and Wee Warts. Metallics, especially pink, red, green and blue are all good choices.
I use a 30" dropper for my lead line with a 5' leader and enough weight to get it 40' or 50' in back of the boat.
This is pretty easy fishing. Just put it in the rod holder and wait.
There are some details that will improve your odds.
It should go without saying, sharp hooks. Sticky sharp.
Scent. I prefer shrimp scent but anise is fine. I really like the Berkley Gulp scent products. The spray bottle is easy to deal with and it's convenient.
Two plug snaps. Something I learned from Craig Mostul that I practice faithfully...is to use a second plug clip, so two total, on my plugs. It enhances the action and seems to make a difference in take-down ratios.
10' to 12' test line, fiberglass rods and line counter reels are all important elements as well. I make sure all the plugs are running at the same distance from the boat. In fact, I go as far as to account for the difference in distance between the forward and rear rod holders to assure that all the plugs are running together, at the same distance.
Finally, check your plugs every half hour or so, no longer, for any weeds or debris that may find its way onto your lures.
If you've been anchored for an hour or longer with no action, move. Try deeper water, say, 20'...if that doesn't work then move into shallower water, say, 10'.
This fishing should hold up well through the end of the month. I'll keep you posted.
Good fishing and safe boating!
Fishing The High Lakes
July 3rd, 2010
For me, Oregon's high lakes have always been a revered escape. It's the best way I know how to connect in a singularly special and compelling way to the outdoors. Pristine, rugged, varied, clean, quiet and inspired, Oregon's high country reveals skies that are a different and deeper blue, crystal streams and lakes, vast meadows and alpine flower fields set amongst thick forest canopies and foreboding, difficult terrain. The real gems are challenging to reach. They often lie miles away --- in some cases it takes a full day, sometimes two or three days to reach your target. That kind of effort separates the enthusiasts from the crowd, those that are willing to roll the dice on a blue speck on the map to see what swims in the ink black depths.
Not all these jewels require extraordinary effort to find. Some are a short trek, minutes, to find, others a little longer, many you can drive right into --- in the high country there's something for everybody. Know that the easier the lake is to access the more people you'll encounter. That's rule number one. Rule number two is to always go prepared for the worst. Never underestimate the weather, terrain or possibility that things can go wrong. Leaving a trip plan with someone at home, packing ample water, food, fire making equipment, shelter, sleeping gear and the proper clothes is essential.
I can share dozens of firsthand accounts of trips that have gone bad because of poor planning. On one trip into Wahtum Lake years ago, my brother and I were settled in for a week of fishing. Our camp was set and we were enjoying some pretty brisk success when about a dozen hikers showed up at the lake. It was August and even though the temperatures were fine when they left at nearly sea level from I-84 and began their trip up the Eagle Creek trail the temperature plummeted with the elevation change. By the time they made Wahtum Lake, a 14 mile hike uphill, the elevation had changed by 4,000 feet. The weather had also changed and most of the hikers were shivering in their shorts and t-shirts.
All of these hikers thought they'd make the trip up and back in one day but when they arrived it was dinner time and there was no way they were going to make the 14 miles back to I-84 in the light. We ended up shuttling the hikers down to Hood River all night long.
Bottom line, never venture into the backwoods unprepared. Over-prepared is fine.
Fishing the high lakes is pretty straightforward. Most of the fish are found within the first 100' or so of shore. There you'll find rainbow, cutthroat or brook trout. A couple lakes are stocked with brown trout but they're a rare find in the Cascades, Wallowa and other Oregon ranges around the state. Most high mountain lakes have the similar topography. The have a shallow water shoal that reaches out into a deeper water pocket. Trout prefer to roam along the break, that water that breaks from the shoals into the depths. To be effective you need to be able to reach the break with your casts. In the morning and evenings trout will move to the surface and into the shallow areas but during the day they find security in deeper water haunts.
If I had one rig to take the into the high lakes it would no doubt include a 6'6" - 7' ultra light spinning rod, ultra-light spinning reel, loaded with at least 130 yards of 4 pound test, tied to a small ball bearing snap swivel with a size 4 (1/8 ounce) Panther Martin spinner in gold (this color has a black body with green dots on the body and a gold blade). I'd be sure to have at least a half a dozen of these packed for any trout trip I was taking. The longer rod will allow longer casts and staying with a reel that has some adequate line capacity, at least 130 yards --- 150 is even better --- will also facilitate longer casts.
Always take extra line. Casting spinners or spoons all day long can/will create line twist no matter how good a swivel you have. That means you'll be losing line as you cut off yards that have become twisted to the point of being a problem.
Some other tried and true high lake lures...
1/8 and 1/6 ounce Roostertails in black or brown are a tried-and-true favorite. So are 1/8 ounce Kastmaster spoons in blue and silver.
I don't use bait...it isn't necessary --- but if you do, plunked powerbait is best.
If you don't have the book, Fishing In Oregon, it's definitely one to get. You'll find useful information that covers the state and answers most of your questions related to Oregon's high lakes as well as a hundreds of other lakes, rivers and streams. Still, it only scratches the surface. There are hundreds more lakes that are missed and that may or may not hold trout.
Always...always...always take a map and a GPS. It's good practice to take a compass as well --- and know how to use it. National Forest maps will reveal all those other blue specks that are missed in the fishing guides that might make for an interesting bushwhack.
I've struck pay dirt as many times as I've struck out hiking to a blue spot on the map with no information. Some are teeming with eager fish while others are little more than a mosquito factory.
If you're looking to get started and want explore some worthwhile areas try the Rock Lakes basin and Frasier Lakes area near Timothy Lake, the Ollalie Scenic area has about 25 lakes in 6 square miles. In many cases it's just a few minutes hike between lakes. There are several in the Jefferson Wilderness and on the east side of the Cascades near Bend.
If you're looking for an even more remote experience head to the northeast corner of Oregon and the rugged Wallowa's --- there you'll find dozens more lakes, some at extreme altitudes but brimming with fish.
In nearly every case a small boat or float tube is a huge advantage. Sevylor makes a one person backpack raft, there's lots of float tube options and in many cases small makeshift rafts have been built that you can use as a casting platform.
From now through fall these lakes make an ideal getaway that are well worth the effort. It's worth a try...even if the fish don't cooperate you can't miss with the splendor and majesty you'll be wrapped in.
Good fishing and safe boating!
Go Fish!
July 2, 2010
There's been a lapse between reports but frankly it's been slim pickin's these past couple of weeks. There was a nice spurt of spring chinook action in the Willamette that lasted a few days a couple weeks ago but it ended as quick as it started.
Summer Chinook fishing has been a bust so far on the Columbia. The fish are there but it's tough to get them to bite. Expect that to pick up this next week --- I should have a fresh report over the long weekend.
Still, there's plenty to do in the world of Oregon fishing this holiday weekend.
Summer steelhead are the main story. While the bite's been slow on the Clackamas, there are lots of fish around. There's also quite a few summers moving through the Willamette. The North and South Santiam Rivers have enjoyed strong returns this year. The North Santiam has fish but presents some challenging boating so beware. The South Santiam is becoming a victim of its popularity so know you won't have the river all to yourself...likely there will be throngs sharing the river with you.
For summer steelhead the lower Columbia is still the best bet. Anchor off one of the islands in 10' to 14' of water and fish K9 Kwikfish or Spin-N-Glo and prawn rigs on a 3' dropper and 6' leader. The best location will be somewhere between Longview and Cathalamet where the river narrows and funnels fish upriver.
You'll see in the NOAA River Levels Forecast (below) that it's a mid-morning and afternoon show with the tide running out from about 9 AM to 5PM on Saturday, etc. You'll want to key in on the outgoing tides if you elect to anchor. Here's the link:
http://water.weather.gov/ahps2/hydrograph.php?wfo=pqr&gage=lopw1&view=1,1,1,1,1,1,1,1
Also, the Cowlitz is producing good catches of summer steelhead from the mouth all the way up to Blue Creek. You'll find fish in the Kalama as well.
Sturgeon fishing's been slow in the estuary --- there's always the catch-and-release option upriver in the Gorge or throughout the lower Willamette. Fresh shad or squid are your two best bait choices in the Columbia; sand shrimp or smelt in the Willamette.
There's loads of trout fishing available this weekend. As reported in an earlier blog, Crane Prairie Reservoir in Central, Oregon and Diamond Lake are both belting out catches of big trout --- and lots of them! Odell Lake's been producing very good catches of Kokanee, so has Wickiup Reservoir and Paulina Lake near LaPine. Up and down the coast there's considerable opportunity. I just made a trip to Coos Bay this past week and counted more than a dozen solid trout lakes between Reedsport and Coos Bay without counting Tenmile Lake or any of the other big names in the area.
There's plenty of access into the high mountain lakes. Lakes like Marion in the Jefferson Wilderness or the Ollalie Scenic Area on the southern-most border of the Mt. Hood National Forest are outstanding options for the weekend. A small lightweight float tube is a huge benefit in fishing these lakes. Sevylor also makes a small lightweight one person backpack raft you can find at area retailers. Casting size 4 Panther Martin spinners and 1/8 ounce black Roostertails are tough to beat in these lakes.
Finally, don't forget about bass and panfish...the opportunities for these fish total into the hundreds with getaways peppered around the state. Close-by the Willamette and Columbia offer outstanding opportunity. For panfish, most backwater areas, like in and around Ross Island, are teeming with opportunity. Better, are the many coastal lakes dotted up and down Hwy. 101 that support strong populations of bluegill, perch and crappie. The same is true for bass.
A trip to the lower John Day River for smallmouth bass is a great way to get introduced to these wonderful fish. It's a terrific fishery that's easily fished by boat, with miles of shoreline to explore. The same holds true for Lake Billy Chinook near Madras.
Make this 4th of July weekend one filled with fishing fireworks...there's plenty of opportunity and the weather's expected to cooperate.
Safe boating and good fishing!
Summer Chinook Fishing Is On!
June 17, 2010
Summer Chinook fishing opened yesterday (June 16th) on the Columbia River. It's expected to run through the end of July at which time Buoy 10 will be opened and another season will begin.
Some fish were caught yesterday. The Columbia's running high and fast which makes fishing below the dam treacherous and only for seasoned, highly experienced boaters and anglers familiar with the area. Give it some time to settle down...I'm thinking a week.
Further downriver, reports trickled in on some healthy catches. Commercial gillnets went in today which will simmer the bite for a few days but it should be good to go by the weekend with Sunday being the better day to give it a whirl.
Look to anchoring on the lower river islands. Sardine-wrapped K14 and K15 Kwikfish in chrome and chartreuse should do the trick. The area between Longview and Cathlamet is a good bet where the river funnels down concentrating the run. Look to about 18' of water. I like a 5' leader and 28" to 30" lead line. Make sure your hooks are needle sharp and change your sardine wrap every hour to hour and fifteen minutes. Don't soak them any longer. Fresh bait is a key.
The limit's two clipped adult chinook and the river's open from the Astoria-Megler Bridge upriver to Bonneville Dam. If you anchor in the lower river you'll want to gbe aware of the tides and anchor on the outgoing tide. It looks like the tide runs out pretty nice all afternoon both Saturday and Sunday...so there's no need to get up early and kill yourself getting your spot. Chances are you'll have anywhere you select in the lower-Columbia all to yourself.
There's also some summer steelhead in the same areas so don't be surprised if one of those rascals grabs your Kwikfish. Some anglers are fishing both, summer steelhead and salmon. On the shallower side of the boat they're running K9 Extreme Kwikfish and in the 18' water they're running the larger Kwikfish.
There's also some decent springer fishing available in the Clackamas River right now along with summer steelhead. The Wilson River is another good bet for summer steelhead and spring Chinook. Even with sketchy weather expected this weekend there's plenty of opportunity to enjoy. Good luck!
Good fishing and safe boating!
Weekend Opportunities Aplenty
June 10th, 2010
It will probably be a week before the Willamette is fishable. It's a brown torrent laced with dead heads and debris that no boater, or bank angler wants to tangle with. Still even with the Willamette blown out there's still some outstanding fishing to found around the local area, and more broadly, the state.
The hot fishery last week and this week has been Tillamook Bay. In my June 6th report I provide quite a bit of detail on how to fish it and right now, the Bay appears to be holidng up nicely. I hope so, I'm headed there Sunday.
The Clackamas should fish perfectly this weekend. Expect to find a mix of summer steelhead and spring Chinook. Reports have been scarce but there should be a good slug of fish available.
Central Oregon's been very good for trout. Wickiup kokanee fishing has been dynamite. Crane Prairie rainbow trout seem to have rebounded this year and catches have been brisk with some really nice big trout showing in the catch. Also, Diamond Lake is off to another great start belting out limits of hefty rainbows. Paulina Lake's worth a shot. This time of year you can troll the edges of the lake for big browns...it's a morning and evening show trolling big trout-patterned Rapalas or other trouty looking swim baits. Paulina browns are spooky so make sure your lure's at least 100' feet behind the boat. Paulina kokanee grow big and early in the season are suckers for vertical jigging. If you haven't caught kokanee vertical jigging it's a ball and well worth the investment in a handful of pink pearl Crippled Herring jigs. It's pretty simple, find the fish on your fish finder and pull off the appropriate amount of line to get down to the fish and start jigging. "Jigging" is simply putting your rod tip close to the water, snapping it up quickly in a 3' (or so) arc and allowing the jig to flutter back down. The fish will generally bite the jig on the fall and you'll feel a "tick" --- when that happens set the hook and enjoy. This is a productive and fun way to catch lots of kokanee.
Odell Lake's been very good as well. The kokanee have been on the smallish side this year but there's lots of them. Lake Billy Chinook is a great bet to catch scads of small smallmouth bass. Great for the kids.
Here's a couple "sleeper" fisheries...
Most of the north coast rivers and streams are open to cutthroat. You'll want to focus on the smaller streams that are clearing and on the fall. Most of the larger streams may still be running high. This is a rare treat. These are wild fish and can grow to 20" or more. Be sure to review the regulations carefully and exercise good sense and best practices when fishing for these trout --- populations are in good shape now but it wasn't long ago that this streams were closed to cutthroat fishing and stayed closed for some time due primarily to over-fishing.
I like the lower Cowlitz this weekend. That's the Cowlitz down by Longview. If you have a boat and can launch in Longview you should find some pretty good fishing available in the lower area, sometimes called the "dunes". It's been a little slow upriver for most (around I-5 upriver to Blue Creek) but this recent freshet should have pulled in a bunch of fish. I've heard that at least one other S.W. Washington river has been producing though it's been tough to pin down just which one for sure.
When the Willamette clears...watch out --- it should be loaded with summer steelhead and maybe a late springer or two!
Good fishing and safe boating!
Springers & Summers
June 6th, 2010
If springer season is over the coast apparently wasn't notified. This past weekend solid catches were made along the jetty in Tillamook Bay. Fresh fish are still on their way...I'm planning a trip out next Sunday with Pro Guide John Krauthoefer and my expectations will be high given how good fishing's been lately.
The key to fishing Tillamook Bay for Chinook is pretty much the same with any Chinook fishery. Keep your bait in the strike zone, which means close to the bottom. That's the number one rule. Of course, you're herring needs to be spinning. It should be of the highest quality, brined, green label size with clear eyes. Scent can be an important element. More and more I'm seeing the value of garlic scents. It just keeps paying off when fishing's tough. Long leaders seem to be important when trolling the jetty area. 8' leaders are the norm. Some fish up to 10' leaders. In other parts of the bay it's 5' and 6' leaders. I'm becoming a big believer in smaller, three hook rigs. Two 4/0's and a 3/0 on the bottom (stinger) for cut plug. I'm definitely using this rig at Buoy 10 this year. Still, if you're not in the lunch room, where they live and feed it doesn't matter what you have tied on or how you're rigged. Lots of fish have been caught in Tillamook Bay and every other Chinook fishery on the planet with poor bait, goof-ball riggings and half-baked techniques simply because those people had their wares in the strike zone. The standard at Tillamook Bay is a 24" to 30" lead/dropper line. Slowly (so the herring doesn't run up and wrap around your main line) drop your gear to the bottom, reel up a crank or two and keep it there. Seasoned Tillamook Bay anglers are constantly checking to make sure they're in that zone. They check their fish finder continuously and work to stay close to the bottom. The ideal timing is the last hour of the tide into the slack tide and on the turn of the tide. When the tide's running hard (especially if it's a large exchange) most anglers vacate the area and move up into other areas of the bay.
Another critical detail and one I learned from John Krauthoefer is to change bait frequently. John doesn't allow his bait to marinate in bay water any longer than about 20 minutes. He's constantly changing bait which also means he's checking his gear to make sure it's free of weeds.
I talked to Clancy Holt this week. He's bracing for a great summer steelhead season on the Cowlitz. Prime time is the end of June and the month of July. Clancy's recognized as one of the best guides in the country and he's certainly earned a sterling reputation on the Cowlitz. If you want to treat yourself to some phenomenal fishing book a trip with Clancy. I plan to spend a day with him and my brother in July free-drifting (the technique that Clancy pioneered) for steelhead on one of the most storied steelhead rivers in the west. Clancy's number is 360-262-9549.
Once the Clackamas drops and clears...watch out. It should be loaded with summer steelhead. I'll be drifting the "Clack" at least a couple times this month. It's pretty much a one rod show. My jig rod...period.
You'd be well-advised to book a guide now for Deschutes summer steelhead in the fall. Already, the top guides are booked completely for October and most of September. It should be another huge year on the Deschutes with big runs expected on the Columbia.
Of course, on the heels of spring Chinook will be summer Chinook which opens on the 16th. I'm itching to pull the trigger on that fishery and take in some big fish fishing opportunity.
Good fishing and safe boating!
Summer Chinook Season Set
June 5th, 2010
The Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission officially set the season for summer Chinook a week and a half before the opening yesterday. What was widely believed to be a season that would run from June 16th to July 31st from the Astoria-Megler Bridge to Bonneville Dam was confirmed. Certainly, this late decision begs the question, "why so late"? A question we may never know the answer to. The Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission had set the same season months ago. Still, it's official and it's an outstanding opportunity. Water conditions should be optimum with peak fishing the last two weeks of June and first two weeks of July. A two fish limit on adipose-clipped Chinook is in place.
Summer Chinook are a particularly special salmon. They migrate into Canada by way of the Okanogan River and are chunky, big fish with a high fat content. This makes these salmon excellent table fare --- some say, better than spring Chinook with more fight than any other run of salmon in the region.
This fishery can be quite good throughout the river from Astoria to Bonneville Dam. In the lower river, between Longview and Cathlamet, Kwikfish are primarily used by boats anchored on the outgoing tide. Below Bonneville, it's primarily a spinner fishery. 88,000 fish are forecast for this run.
The Columbia was closed to the harvest of summer Chinook for 29 years until its reopening in 2000. Seasons since its' reopening have been sporadic. Last year, only an 8 day season was allowed. Several sportfishing groups led by the N.W. Sportfishing Industry Association worked closely with fish and wildlife agencies in both states to set selective harvest seasons on these fish. The goal was to extend the season using selective harvest as the primary tool. After several years of prodding the agencies have agreed to allow the sportfishing community to selectively harvest these salmon. Commercial fisheries continue to be non-selective --- taking both hatchery and wild fish bound for Canada.
You're encouraged to take full advantage of this unique and special opportunity. Also, don't forget summer steelhead season is also open from Tongue Point to Bonneville Dam. This is another productive fishery that gets better and better through the month of June and into July. Already, more than 10,000 steelhead have been counted at Bonneville Dam --- about the same number of summer Chinook have been counted as well.
More reports coming early next week.
Good fishing and safe boating!
Sorry About The "Glitch"
June 4th, 2010
If you haven't had a chance to check out this website completely you should. It's a marvel of programming acumen and product depth designed to make your viewing experience and understanding of Stevens Marine's commitment to you, their products and the sports of fishing and boating exceptional.
Unfortunately, when you pack this much programming into a site things go wrong. My blog fell victim to one of these unanticipated "glitches" and I lost all of May's information I produced. I apologize. We've put other safeguards in place to prevent that in the future.
Expect to see some notification today --- late afternoon probably --- of the Summer Chinook season. This will be the official announcement, not the speculation that we've all labored under for months. I'm expecting the news to be good --- hopefully, very good --- as we line up for a summer of incredible fishing opportunity.
I'll check back later with the news.
Good fishing and safe boating!
Boats "On The Hook" Catching Fish Too
April 24th, 2010
I admit to being predisposed to trolling and backtrolling for salmon. I like to move around, cover water...it could be that I'm just anxious but I like to think it's a more effective way to catch fish. Clearly, I have a strong bias but to be fair fish are being caught by boats on the hook aka anchored up.
Liz Hamilton and her husband Art Martin have spent the past three days anchored up on the Willamette in the Gladstone area, catching salmon. Thursday was downright blistering, Friday was good and today's been very good. I've fished with Liz a few times and she has this strategy down. When you boat as many as a dozen fish in a day that's great fishing for trollers and anchored boats.
Liz likes to fish spinners and prawn spinner rigs but you'll find a number of tactics used in the platoon of hoglines that form on the Willamette from just above the I-205 bridge downriver to Gladstone.
Just a few weeks ago I sat anchored downriver of the Kalama launch with K14 and K15 Kwikfish swimming behind the boat. We went 4 for 5...it was a great day of fishing as I packed a fresh springer home to enjoy with friends and family.
Generally, the rigging relies on a 2' lead line/dropper and a 5' leader. I always throw an overhand knot in the lead line. It reduces the line strength by 50% so if it gets hung up I don't lose everything. More than one angler has hooked up on a hot springer only to have the lead line snag up resulting in a lost fish and boiling frustration.
The areas you're looking for are places where fish move into to take a break on their upriver migration. You're looking for pockets, drop-offs and current breaks. In the right place at the right time and you'll be in the way of a steady stream of fish...that's the goal.
Once anchored the fishing's pretty easy. Use enough lead so you can back your offering about 50' in back of the boat...no further. You want to be sure you're presentation is anchored to the bottom and in the strike zone.
Getting anchored is a different story. Always use extreme caution. Be sure to never let your anchor rope drift in back of the boat --- you can sink in a blink of an eye if your anchor line gets tangled around your engine. Please be sure to wear your PFD when anchoring up. Pulling anchor is equally as dangerous. If you've never done it you're well advised to practice prior to anchoring. Also, if you're new to anchoring start in lower velocity water. Always have a knife ready when anchoring. If something goes wrong you may have to cut your anchor line immediately.
The EZ Marine anchor system is the most widely used on the river. I highly recommend this system which is available at Stevens Marine and every well-stocked sporting good and marine dealer in the area.
As I've mentioned in previous posts, the best bite has been on the outgoing tide. You can check the river level forecast here http://water.weather.gov/ahps2/index.php?wfo=pqr to best determine when the river level is going to be on the fall. Plan your trip accordingly.
Finally, there's been a rumor of a closure on the Willamette River...it's untrue. In fact, the ODFW is hedging that the run may come in stronger than expected on the Willamette. It was expected to be around 62,400, now managers are thinking it may come in substantially higher. This means you can expect excellent fishing for Spring Chinook on the Willamette for another month! Enjoy!
Good fishing and safe boating!
The Willamette's Producing!
April 23, 2010
There's some pretty hot fishing right now on the Willamette...there's also some very good opportunity for trout, sturgeon and steelhead locally that's well worth the effort.
Just minutes ago I recieved a report from Craig Mostul, one of the sales professionals at Stevens Marine's Milwaukie location, who by 10 AM had 8 spring Chinook in his boat and was headed home! Craig was fishing the Oregon City - Gladstone area. The fact is, fishing's good from Multnomah Channel and St. John's all the way to Oregon City.
Craig's not the only report to come in...the fact is the past few days have been "epic". Now, if you haven't landed any fish this week "epic" may be a stretch but for some it's been really good catching these past few weeks.
The water's cold making bait a great choice. The beauty of the Willamette is there's a two fish limit and nearly 28 miles of river to fish from Oregon City to the mouth...and that doesn't count the miles of river available in Multnomah Channel!
If you're brand new to this fishery there's some tried and true areas you can fish and have a fair shot at success. Downtown Portland from Ross Island downriver to Cathedral Park has plenty of river to fish. Just cut plug a herring (they'll show you how to do this at Fisherman's Marine and Outdoor), use a 5' leader with a mooching rig and a 20" lead line (they'll show you this too) --- use 6 ounces of lead and try 17 pulls (pulling line from the face of your reel to the first guide on your rod). Troll with the current and troll just fast enough that you put about a 60 degree angle in your line to the water and no more than a 45 degree angle. Make sure your herring is spinning.
Brining your herring is critical too. You'll get all the advice you need at Fisherman's.
For the seasoned pro's --- back bounced eggs are producing in Oregon City...so are trolled and backtrolled cured prawns.
Fish are spread through the river right now and conditions are optimum for catching. There's a good outgoing tide Saturday and Sunday morning...all morning. The bite should be good.
I had the opportunity to fish Henry Hagg Lake yesterday. Fishing was good flatline trolling size 6 Panther Martin spinners in the black body / gold blade pattern; black 1/6 ounce Roostertail spinners; and crushed orange Crippl-lures by Shasta Tackle all caught fish. To flatline troll all you need to do is tie a small ball bearing snap swivel to your line (4 lb. test is plenty) and attach the lure. I like to fish two or three different patterns and I try to find fish by trolling close to shore on the first pass --- generally 25' to 35' of water and then work my way out into the lake until I find eager biters.
I prefer fish near Boat Ramp A...it just seems to produce quite a bit better than anywhere else in the lake.
Steelhead fishing continues to hold up on the Clackamas. Now, summer steelhead are beginning to show in the lower river...a good sign for May and June fishing in the Clackamas.
Looking ahead there's lots to get excited about. Tillamook Bay spring Chinook in May, Sandy River springers in May, summer steelhead, trout, smallmouth bass...the list is long and impressive and the season's just getting its head of steam!
Good fishing and safe boating!
"The Bite's On"
April 9th, 2010
No doubt about it...game on in the Columbia River! Springer fishing has been wide open for some the past couple of days. Our boat had 7 by noon --- 5 keepers/2 that needed to be released. All were caught on herring and in deep water. Fishing's been good from the deadline at I-5 downriver with reports of fish being caught as far downriver as Puget Island right across from Cathlamet.
Here's the key details to pay attention to.
Troll with the tide.
Make sure your herring's spinning.
Wear rubber gloves to keep your scent off the bait.
Try fishing deeper water, say, 30' to 45'. There's less pressure in these areas and the fish seem to be biting better in the deeper water.
Add a drop (one drop no more) of pure anise oil (not anise exract) to your herring brine the night before and brine your herring overnight (you can get pure anise oil at Fisherman's Marine and Outdoor).
When you've made your trolling pass, motor back to the top of wherever you started and do it again...don't try turning around and trolling agains the tide --- you'll cover less water, need more lead and likely your baits will go bad more quickly.
Make sure your baits close to the bottom. Fish a lead/dropper line that's 18" to 24", drop down to the bottom with your lead, reel up a crank and troll. These fish are pressed tight to the bottom and if your bait's running at 3' to 4' off the bottom you'll likely be out of the strike zone.
Wait for the fish to fully take the bait. This means, set the hook only when the rod's doubled over the salmon's taking line off your reel. Too many anglers set the hook too early and end up "missing" fish.
The Columbia River season closes on the 18th so take advantage of the good weather and great fishing with the time that's left. If we're lucky we'll get an extension but it may only be a few days.
If you want to beat the crowds and do a little pioneering don't forget that the river's open all the way to Buoy 10! There's likely some pretty good fishing alongside Desdemona Sands up to Tongue Point.
Good fishing and safe boating!
"The River's Full Of Fish"
April 7th, 2010
Just recieved a report from a very credible source saying, "the river's full of fish...we've been getting limits every day --- they're really catching them up in the Woodland area today." This is one of several reports I've been privy to the past couple of days. Spring salmon have arrived in the Columbia! It's open right now from I-5 downriver to the take of one adipose-clipped chinook per angler per day. They're catching fish on a variety of methods, mostly trolled herring but if you read a couple of my previous reports you'll glean some useful information on how to enhance the look and effectiveness of your presentation.
Springers in the Columbia like to hug the bottom as they migrate upriver so keep your baits close to the bottom. Focus on water that ranges from 15' to 30' deep --- no deeper. Keep your lead line at 16" to 24" and only reel your lead a crank off the bottom (just a few inches). 7' and 8' leaders are the norm when fishing cut plug herring on the Columbia. The outgoing tide is in the afternoon all week long starting at 1:00 today and adding roughly an hour each day through the week. By Saturday the water will start running out around 5:00 PM but will be running all morning on Saturday and Sunday as well.
A few will no doubt venture downriver and explore lower-Columbia opportunities...not a bad choice if you want to avoid the crowds and get on the leading edge of the fish. The river's open from the estuary upriver to I-5...that's 70 miles of river that's open for business!
An interesting report trickled in yesterday that there were some summer steelhead already showing in the Clackamas. Fishing's been really good for steelhead this year in the Clackamas and an early return of summers bodes well for some bonus catches in the Willamette AND Clackamas in May.
There are several useful publications available online through the Oregon State Marine Board website (www.boatoregon.com) one is "Boating Guide To The Lower Columbia & Willamette Rivers" that's available in the "Library & Publications" section of the site. The "Willamette River Recreation Guide" and "Boating Facilities Guide" are two others well-worth having on hand if you plan to boat/fish these areas.
If you've been waiting...wait no longer --- the fish are here, they're biting and the "river's full of fish"!
Safe boating and good fishing!
More Tips For Your Springer Season
April 3rd, 2010
As reported earlier, springer fishing is in full swing! Unfortunately, water conditions in the Willamette are far from ideal right now. Hopefully, that will change inside the week and we'll be off and running again with great fishing in the Willamette and Columbia.
Be sure to check the regs before fishing the Columbia. The area from Buoy 10 to I-5 is open 7 days a week through April 18th. That said, regulations on the Columbia can change with little notice so be sure to double check.
Herring is the bait of choice right now out in the Columbia. If you're not fishing Kwikfish anchored on the outgoing tide you're probably fishing herring during slack tide and trolling the incoming tide. 99% of the trollers are using brined cutplug herring. A much smaller percentage are putting 4 to 6 beads ahead of their herring and a medium sized Thin Twin Spinner above their beads. This lightweight spinner resembles a propeller and adds flash and fish-catching vibration to your presentation. There are several different colors available...they all work so take your pick. You can find Thin Twin Spinners at Fisherman's Marine & Outdoor.
Also, a few anglers are fishing herring while anchored. They're still running Kwikfish but if they have 4 anglers in the boat, one rod's fishing a herring. That's been working too.
With improving dam counts over Bonneville it looks like this run is going to be a boomer. Just how big remains to be seen but it should be sizeable...good news if it plays out as forecast.
Finally, the Association of N.W. Steelheaders is celebrating 50 years at their upcoming annual banquet slated for April 10th. This is a don't miss event that will feature Buzz Ramsey as the keynote speaker. Beyond the auction and terrific buys to be had on everything from artwork and trips to knick knacks and all-things-fishing, the biggest names in N.W. sportfishing will be in attendance. Support the Association that's supported N.W. salmon, steelhead and trout fishing for so long...make a point of attending this wonderful event this year. You can get complete details on the Association website at www.nwsteelheaders.org
Good fishing and safe boating!
Wet & Wild Springer & Sturgeon Fishing!
March 28th, 2010
By any standard the past week has delivered some epic springer fishing for some. There's been some great bites starting as far west as Cathlamet right up into Oregon City. The Hawgs-N-Dogs tournament this past Saturday saw some solid catches of sturgeon and salmon. Lots of boats were blanked but a few came in with strong showings.
What's clear is the season's off to a good start. We'll see if it materializes into a "great" year in the next few weeks, but there's plenty of cause to be optimistic.
Here's one of several tips this report will be sharing over the next few weeks. Whether you're brand new to the springer scene or be fishing them for decades you'll appreciate these recommendations.
Kwikfish have been working. Our team went 3 for 5 fishing Kwikies on Saturday so I know firsthand how good the Kwikfish bite is right now.
For Springers go armed with K14 and K15 sizes. Ideally, these are Kwikfish that you've already fished and know Proper tuning is critical to success, if the plug's not running straight it won't catch fish.
Springers run tight to the bottom. Unlike fall chinook that can be found in water as deep as 60', spring Chinook prefer 18' to 30' of water. In the Columbia we've been anchoring in 24' to 28' depths. Last year, the Willamette Salmon Quest was won backtrolling Kwikfish in 8' of water. Right now though, 24' to 28' should have you in the zone.
First, you'll want to find an area that springers will be moving into and holding. Small depressions and pockets where fish either come up over a shelf and into a pocket or have to move over a ridge and into a pocket are prime holding areas. You'll want to anchor above these areas so you can back the plugs down into these holding areas.
Whether you're fishing the Columbia or the Willamette fish these baits on an outgoing tide. You'll be best served checking the river levels to determine how the tide's running in the area you'll be fishing. These riverl level forecasts show when the river's expected to run out and when it should be turning and running back in on the high tide. Here's the NOAA link to local river levels: http://ahps2.wrh.noaa.gov/ahps2/index.php?wfo=pqr
If you're fishing 4 rods try running two with K15's and two with K14's to see what the fish prefer. Chrome and chartreuse are good standard colors but most will tell you that any one of a half a dozen colors work, it's all about the rigging, scent, where you're fishing and how well the lure's tuned and swimming.
Ideally, you'll want to wrap your Kwikfish the day before. Using small chunks of sardine wrapped on to the bottom of the plug and then marinating them in a sardine scent bath the day before is a good practice. If you don't know how to wrap a Kwikfish just query it online and you'll find lots of tips.
The ideal rigging right now requires a 2' to 28" sliding lead line and a 5' leader. Make sure the hooks are needle sharp. You'll want to use just enough weight to back the bait down behind and away from the boat. Ideally, no more than 50' behind the boat. For us, the lures that were closest to the boat caught the fish and the K15's were the lure of choice. The day before it was K14's. Generally 4 to 6 ounces of lead in a hard tide is all that's needed but be prepared to go as heavy as 10 ounces if the current warrants it.
With rain expected all week long it looks like the Columbia will be the best bet. Fishing should be good all week long from the mouth of the Willamette downriver to Astoria. Remember the Columbia's closed to sport fishing on Tuesday. Also, make a point of checking the regulations before setting out. You'll find complete information on the season in an earlier post in this report.
I'll have other updates posted by Tuesday so check back for the latest info on the season and other opportunities.
Good fishing and safe boating!
"Crazy Good" Fishing Right Now!
March 18th, 2010
Don't walk...run! Get there before the weekend because it will likely be wall-to-wall, bring-your-own-rock fishing on a number of area fisheries.
The Wilson River has been posting some phenomenal days of steelhead fishing. So has the Nestucca. The Cowlitz is producing and as one angler put it, "The Clackamas has been crazy good." For the most part, these reports haven't been widely circulated on popular forums, websites and print resources but they're far from a secret. Just ask anyone who fished the Clackamas last weekend --- it was packed! There's been some fish to catch in the upper river but the better fishing's been from Barton down to the mouth.
One guide admitted to "waves" of steelhead coming in on every tide at the coast...on the Wilson. Another stalwart said, "Hurry, it's some of the best steelheading I've had on the Nestucca."
Those aren't the only rivers producing either.
The Willamette's been good too. Just ask Craig Mostul at the Milwaukie Stevens Marine location and he'll tell you last weekend the Willamette was particularly giving as his boat landed 5 spring Chinook in Multnomah Channel! For this time of year that's an incredible result.
For steelhead try free-drifting eggs. This time of year, with some native fish around as well, free-drifting is ultra-effective and generally results in hook-ups that are right in the corner of the jaw. This makes the fish easy to release unharmed if it's wild yet gives you the edge you need to cover lots of water effectively. Backtrolled plugs also work well. Stay away from diver/bait combinations as steelhead tend to inhale these presentations making a safe release difficult.
Today, the Willamette is in perfect shape. The water level is ideal, the color is near-perfect, the temperature is a good too. For spring Chinook it means all the stars have aligned for a productive few days of fishing. Today and tomorrow should be good days to find some water you'll only be sharing with a few people. My guess is this weekend it's going to be the beginning of salmon fever and lots of traffic on the river. From Oregon City down to the Milwaukie trestle and even Milwaukie proper, prawns are the go-to bait for sure. From Sellwood to downtown Portland, it's a mix of herring and prawns. Down in the Portland harbor, it's herring and Multnomah Channel I'd recommend either herring (first) or wrapped Kwikfish.
If you're using prawns take a couple different colors. Purple, yellow and red are all good bets right now. Fish have to see it to bite it so go with something visible. Putting a small spinner blade ahead of the prawn helps. I like red and white or chartreuse (yellow) and flame red blades.
These aren't the only rivers producing right now. It's prime time on the Siletz (steelhead), a few fish (Spring Chinook)are being caught on the lower Columbia and some of the tributaries above Willamette Falls have fish in them (more steelhead). If you have a favorite winter steelhead river in the Willamette Valley chances are very good it's got fish.
Even though it's exceptionally good right now locally...the best steelheading is a mere 7 hour drive from here. The Imnaha River has been producing steelhead like they're being shot out of a Pez dispenser. The average amount of time to catch a steelhead on the Imnaha right now is a little more than an hour a fish! Bobber and jigs --- if you take sand shrimp or eggs you'll need to stand behind a tree to bait up to keep the fish from taking it out of your hands before it hits the water.
So east, west, north or south there's plenty of great fishing opportunity right now. 2010 is shaping up to be one heck of a good year for fishing in Oregon.
Good fishing and safe boating!
Steelhead In The Cowlitz...Crab At The Coast
March 7th, 2010
Just in! Craig Mostul, of Stevens Marine, along with his dad and brother found fresh winter steelhead fishing the Cowlitz River yesterday. Together, they boated 6, all about midway between Blue Creek and Mission Bar. The Cowlitz is overlooked this time of year as a steelhead fishery but can be quite good this time of year. Soon, it will play host to both steelhead and spring Chinook. Guides like Clancy Holt will be targeting both later this month and next.
Craig caught his fish free-drifting eggs and avoided the crowds by fishing downriver of Blue Creek and the Blue Creek launch.
Also, just in...crabbing's been pretty good down in the area of Hammond. Surprisingly, limits are being caught on the low slack tide which is due around 12:30 PM tomorrow, Sunday. Look to deeper water areas downriver of Hammond, between 25' and 30' of water but out of the main channel of navigation (inside the green or red buoys). If you venture downriver be careful around Clatsop spit. That's a particularly dangerous piece of water. You shouldn't have to venture far from Hammond to find crab...a mile or two at the most. Tuna heads, shad and bait bags filled with clams are all terrific baits. Also, turkey parts work well and seals and sea lions won't touch them.
This is the beginning of some hot fishing and a bounty of outdoor opportunities so check in to this report frequently to stay abreast of developments in local and regional prospects and tips. I should have some reliable updates soon on lower Columbia spring Chinook fishing. I'll be sure to pass them along as soon as I get them.
Good fishing and safe boating!
Chinook Continue To Dominate Locally
March 4th, 2010
Sure, it's prime time for steelhead on a number of N.W. rivers. Some, like the Wilson, seem uncharacteristically slow right now. The surprise though has been in the Willamette and recent catches of fresh Spring Chinook. This early in the season to find fish moving over Willamette Falls and Bonneville Dam (albeit just a few) is remarkable news and a positive sign for local anglers.
Improving weather should make fishing Friday and Saturday a treat. Sunday's still a bit sketchy right now.
The Willamette's open 7 days a week to the harvest of TWO adipose clipped chinook OR steelhead. It's the best game in town! If you can find good herring buy it, brine it and fish it this weekend.
If you elect to fish down in