What would you recommend to anglers fishing in Portland, Oregon for the first time?

Salmon was a total miss for us on the day we went, but pivoted to sturgeon where we caught shad bait that were fun to reel in and then we did catch a big sturgeon that was a monster! Columbia river can be windy and cold ad it was the day we went.

Fishing the Columbia River late in the season does not produce as many fish as earlier in the season. But it's a wonderful time on the river with great scenery. For us it was a time to spend with family enjoying the day together. The fish we caught were a bonus!

Nice heavy jacket and long sleeves to shed off when fishing in the morning. We had a 7 to 11 trip to Timothy Lake♡ Absolutely loved the peacefulness of the morning though drive was great! But service is spotty so make sure to write down your directions.

To Look on fishingbooker.com to select the right fishing. It was great. Only the way to get a licence+harvest list is too complicated. It is still paper required. I think everything must go digital. Iam a German and I needed to go around to find a place where these papers could be printed out.

Springers are not easy to catch so I would recommend if you want a better chance to catch fish, try the fall

Might not be the best time to get them, lots of folks were on the water and a few caught some hatchery's but not us. Winter and fall are better times to get those salmon and Steelheads.

Make sure to go in the morning if it’s a warmer day. The fish are lethargic in the heat of the day

Bananas on a boat is considered bad luck. Wear layers because it's cold in the morning but warms up by the afternoon.

Ok one never knows the exact day the fish are going to bite so. Watch the fish count and plan a trip when the count is above 500

Be prepared for cold days/mornings and be ready to be up early. Hit the weight room if your going for the Chinock!!

It depends on rain and how many fish enter river during the run. Also if they start to let netting of drag boats it decreases your chance of a big fish. August to first week of September

Allow plenty of time to get from the airport to the coast. The best salmon fishing is near the mouth of the Columbia River or just offshore.

I had never been fishing for Sturgeon and now I’m glad we did! Great suggestion by the Captain. Great action all day. Big fish!

Not bitting too much - lots of food in that period so salmon is not interested in the bait

Dress for the weather and unexpected weather. Bring snacks and beverages and a great attitude!

Bring your rain gear! Even in late May we still had a few showers throughout the day.

Find the right location, time of year, and the right captain for the best chance at great fishing.

If you are fishing for sturgeon it is great (though it is catch and release in Jan).

Talk to the charters and find out exactly what they can fish for at different times of the year.

Get a Good Captain. Captain Taylor was knowledgeable, prepared, & accommodating.

Consider how to get to and from the designated pick up spot.taxi was the only way back.cost$80

Yes. I went for the experience, not just the fish. The Columbia River and Portland are beautiful.