{"id":28376,"date":"2021-06-17T14:57:00","date_gmt":"2021-06-17T12:57:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/fishingbooker.com\/blog\/?p=28376"},"modified":"2026-03-10T03:57:48","modified_gmt":"2026-03-10T03:57:48","slug":"columbia-river-salmon-fishing","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/fishingbooker.com\/blog\/columbia-river-salmon-fishing\/","title":{"rendered":"Salmon Fishing on the Columbia River: The Complete Guide for 2026"},"content":{"rendered":"Reading Time: <\/span> 8<\/span> minutes<\/span><\/span>

The Columbia River is the largest waterway in the Pacific Northwest, but that’s not the only thing that’s brag-worthy about it. It’s also home to some world-famous fish. And top of the list? Salmon, of course! Chasing this species on a Columbia River Salmon fishing adventure<\/a> has achieved legendary status among anglers. It’s no surprise that visitors flock from all over North America to experience it.<\/p>

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As well as boasting 1,000+ miles of water, the Columbia River is home to multiple varieties of this species and sees a whopping five Salmon runs each year. This means that you have ample opportunity to target these fish – and plenty of water to cast a line in. Before you grab your rods and reels and head out to this fishing mecca, you probably have a few questions. Which Salmon, exactly, are on offer here? And how can you go about catching ’em?<\/p>

Don’t worry – we’ve covered all of this and more below, so you’ll be fully prepared to head out on the Salmon fishing adventure of your dreams. Without further ado, let’s dive in…<\/p>

What Salmon can I catch on the Columbia River?<\/h2>

Chinook Salmon<\/h3>

We had to start off our list with Salmon royalty! Also known as “Kings,” Chinook are definitely the cream of the crop when it comes to the Columbia River’s fishing scene. These waters are graced by three Chinook runs each year and boast some of the biggest and tastiest variations in the world.<\/p>

Chinook Salmon season generally kicks off in March, when the spring run enters the river. These fish usually average between 15–25 pounds, and while they may not be the biggest specimens around, they’re often considered the best for eating! A visit during this time is a must if you want to potentially take home something tasty for the table. <\/p>

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The season continues through summer, with the second run of Kings entering these waters in June. They reach huge sizes, usually between 40–50 pounds, and are known as “June Hogs” because of this. Their size means that the action they put up on the end of a line is even more noticeable, so get ready for some hard fighting!<\/p>

The final run takes place in the fall, usually beginning in August. Returning Chinook make their way from the ocean into the Columbia River. These specimens are the perfect combination of big (usually 25–50 pounds) and delicious. No matter when you visit, the most popular way to fish for Chinook is by trolling the river, although some local anglers prefer to bounce roe clusters off the bottom of the riverbed. <\/p>

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Coho Salmon<\/h3>

This species of Salmon may not grow as big as Chinook, but they put up an incredible fight pound-for-pound. Coho are beloved by anglers along the Columbia River for their acrobatic leaps – so much so that their numbers have declined over time. That doesn’t mean you can’t target them, though, although we’d recommend catching and releasing your fish.<\/p>

Unlike Chinook, the Columbia River sees only one run of Coho Salmon, occurring during the fall. They make their way from the ocean along the river, and can be found in especially large numbers around the Bonneville Dam. During this time of year, they’re at their biggest and toughest, which means trolling is a popular technique. It allows you to get a handle on your opponent but still experience rod-bending action!<\/p>

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That’s not the only way to fish for Coho, though. Using light tackle is also a favored way to reel ’em in. It really allows you to feel the action these fish cause at the end of a line. They’re especially attracted to live or cut herring and sardines, no matter whether you’re trolling or spinning. <\/p>

And More…<\/h3>

When it comes to Salmon fishing along the Columbia River, it’s fair to say that Chinook and Coho are the species that everyone’s talking about. But that doesn’t mean they’re the only Salmon on offer here! This waterway sees a smaller run of Sockeye during the summer months, and they’re especially plentiful in the Upper Columbia River. They usually grow up to 25 inches, but what they lack in size they make up for in taste.<\/p>

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What anglers said about Salmon Fishing in Columbia River<\/h3>\n <\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/p>

How to Go Salmon Fishing on the Columbia River<\/h2>

Before we delve into techniques, it’s important to know that you can target the Columbia River’s impressive Salmon population either from a boat or on foot. One thing to be aware of, though, is this river’s sheer size. Hop on a local fishing charter<\/a>, and you’ll be able to cover more ground than if you’re setting up your rod on the riverbank. You can also ask your guide to try out some of the techniques below that may seem a little trickier.<\/p>

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Trolling<\/h3>

This is by far the most commonly used technique when it comes to chasing Salmon here. It’s easy to see why, too. Trolling allows you to drop multiple lines and cover a larger span of water, which means you’ll get to potentially entice more fish into biting. You’ll need to step aboard a vessel to troll, but it’s well worth it.<\/p>

One of the most effective ways to lure your target fish into biting is by trolling herring. Some anglers prefer to use the whole bait fish, combining it with a bait clip that has a fin. This allows your bait<\/a> to move under the water. Other anglers implement cut herring, which spins well in the water and attracts the attention of Salmon. Combine this with a plug to give the appearance of an injured bait fish. If you’re into artificials, you can also troll with spinners. <\/p>

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When it comes to your rods and reels, opt for a longer rod, usually around 9–10 feet. You also want your rod to be able to withstand a lot of weight, so make sure it can handle weights between 12–20 ounces. Pair this with your stand 30 lb monofilament line, which is able to cope with the bite of a big fish, or a 65 lb braided line if you prefer tougher tackle. Salmon like to travel deep, especially large Chinooks, so make sure you have some 12–16 oz weights handy!<\/p>

Spinning<\/h3>

“Spinning” has become somewhat of a catch-all term for any fishing technique that involves your basic rod, reel, and a casting motion. This means there’s a variety of ways for you to experience it! A popular technique among Columbia River Salmon anglers is plunking. When using this method, the aim is to cast your line in an area that is on your Salmon of choice’s migratory route and wait it out.<\/p>

Plunking involves setting up an 8–9′ extra-heavy rod, paired with a 40–60 lb braided line topped off with bait fish. A kwikfish lure wrapped in herring is a popular choice. You’ll need a three-way swivel, which will let you add your lure or bait fish on one side and your weight on the other. <\/p>

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This weight can be anywhere between 2–10 lbs. Your 40–60 lb line will be your main “tie” line to the swivel, with a snap link tied to the end of it. You can then add a 12–15 lb dropper line of about 15-20 inches. Add a snap link to the end of this, too, and you’re good to go. If you’d rather use monofilament for your main line, opt for the 25-pound mark.<\/p>

You can also choose to backbounce. This technique generally takes place from a boat, which allows you to reach deep waters. It involves using a medium-heavy 8–9′ rod, usually a specific model made for backbouncing or “hovering.” Pair this with braided line weighing between 30–50 pounds.<\/p>

When it comes to the setup, you’ll want to attach a swivel to your main line. Then, attach a 3–5′ leader weighing between 25–60 pounds. Finally, tie a 6–25″ test line weighing around 12 pounds that will function as your dropper line, with a dropper or cannonball-style sinker at the end. You can use whatever bait or lure you prefer, but roe clusters are especially successful. From there, cast your line until you feel your dropper or sinker hit the riverbed! <\/p>

Columbia River Salmon Fishing Spots<\/h2>

With Salmon varieties inhabiting the majority of the Columbia River, there isn’t really a bad place to start your angling adventure. However, depending on when you visit, stretches of the river may be closed for fishing, so make sure you check with the Wildlife and Fishery department of your chosen state first. Here are a few of our favorite Salmon-chasing locations to get you started…<\/p>

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Bonneville Dam<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>