Top-Rated Columbia River Salmon Fishing Trip

Half Day Columbia River Salmon Fishing

Ready for some world-class salmon fishing without the all-day commitment? Our 6-hour trip on the Columbia River and Pacific Ocean is the perfect mix of action-packed angling and stunning scenery. Whether you're a seasoned pro or it's your first time holding a rod, we've got you covered. You pick the start time, we'll bring the know-how and all the gear you need. It's all about landing those prized Chinook salmon while soaking in the views of the mighty Columbia as it meets the vast Pacific.

What to Expect on the Water

From the moment you step aboard, you're in for a treat. We'll cruise out from the Columbia, passing under the iconic Astoria-Megler Bridge, and hit some of the best fishing spots where the river meets the sea. The beauty of this half-day trip is its flexibility - want to focus on the calmer river waters? No problem. Feeling adventurous and want to try your luck in the ocean swells? We can do that too. Our experienced crew knows exactly where the salmon are biting, and we'll get you right in the action. Don't worry about bringing anything but your enthusiasm - we've got top-notch rods, reels, and bait all ready to go.

Techniques That Land the Big Ones

On this trip, we'll be using a mix of trolling and mooching techniques - the bread and butter of Columbia River salmon fishing. We'll set up with downriggers to get our lures down where the salmon are cruising. You'll learn how to work a herring rig like a pro, enticing those big Chinooks to strike. Keep an eye on the fish finder - when we mark a school, it's game on! We might switch it up and do some drift fishing if the conditions are right. The key is staying flexible and reading the water, which is where our years of local experience really pay off.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

"Brock did a great job getting us a good fishing experience on a day where the fish weren't biting (for anyone) as much as usual. We still got a fish for everyone on board, which was better than most of the boats on the water that day. Nice guy and a great guide." - Mark

Species You'll Want to Hook

Chinook Salmon, or "Kings" as we call them, are the stars of the show on this trip. These powerful fish are the largest of the Pacific salmon species, known for their fierce fights and delicious meat. In the Columbia, you can expect to tangle with Chinooks ranging from 10 to 40 pounds, with some real monsters pushing 50+ pounds not unheard of. They're most active in the early morning and late evening, which is why our flexible start times are so handy.

Chinooks are famous for their deep, powerful runs and tendency to sound (dive deep) when hooked. You'll need to be on your toes and ready for a workout when one of these beauties takes your bait. The best time to target them is usually from late spring through early fall, with peak season often hitting in August and September. There's nothing quite like the thrill of battling a big King salmon as it tries to throw your hook - it's an experience that keeps anglers coming back year after year.

Time to Book Your Spot

Look, there's a reason why our half-day salmon trips are customer favorites. You get all the excitement of hooking into some serious salmon, the breathtaking views of the Columbia and Pacific, and the flexibility to fit it into your schedule. Whether you're a local looking for a quick fishing fix or a visitor wanting to experience the best of Pacific Northwest angling, this trip delivers. Our experienced crew, top-notch gear, and insider knowledge of the best spots mean you're in for a top-rated fishing adventure. Don't miss out on your chance to land the catch of a lifetime - spots fill up fast, especially during peak salmon runs. Give us a call or book online to secure your spot on one of the best fishing charters the Columbia has to offer. Just remember, deposits are non-refundable, so make sure you're ready to commit to an awesome day on the water. See you out there!