Get ready to test your skills against some of Oregon's most prized game fish on this action-packed 4-hour trip. We're talking serious fishing here - no touristy stuff. If you know your way around a rod and reel, you're in for a treat on the mighty Columbia. Depending on what's running, we'll be targeting monster sturgeon, hard-fighting salmon, or feisty trout. The river changes by the day, so we'll play it by ear and go where the fish are biting. Pack light, bring your A-game, and let's make some memories on the water.
This ain't no pleasure cruise, folks. We're here to fish, and fish hard. The captain knows these waters like the back of his hand, and he'll put you on the hotspots. You'll be using top-notch gear - we're talking quality rods, reels, and the freshest bait. But here's the kicker: you need to know what you're doing. This trip is tailor-made for anglers who've got some experience under their belts. We're not here to teach you how to tie a knot or bait a hook. Come ready to cast, set hooks, and land some lunkers. The Columbia's got a reputation for big fish, and we aim to keep it that way.
Alright, let's talk tactics. Depending on what we're chasing, we might be backtrolling for salmon, bottomfishing for sturgeon, or drifting for trout. The Columbia's a big, powerful river, so be ready for some heavy-duty fishing. We might be using planer boards to cover more water, or dropping lines straight down for those bottom-dwelling sturgeon. If the salmon are running, get ready for some serious battles - these fish don't give up easy. The captain will clue you in on what's working, but be ready to adapt. Fish aren't predictable, and that's half the fun. We provide all the gear, but if you've got a lucky lure, by all means, bring it along. Just make sure you've got your license squared away - we don't mess around with regs on this boat.
Chinook Salmon: The king of the Pacific Northwest, Chinooks are the heavyweights of the salmon world. These bruisers can tip the scales at over 40 pounds, and they fight like their lives depend on it - because they do. Spring and fall are prime time for Chinooks on the Columbia. When you hook one, hold on tight and get ready for the fight of your life. There's nothing quite like the rush of a big king taking your line.
Rainbow Trout: Don't let their size fool you - these Columbia River 'bows are some of the feistiest fish you'll ever tangle with. We're talking acrobatic leaps, lightning-fast runs, and more attitude than you'd think possible in a fish this size. They're here year-round, but fishing really heats up in spring and fall. Whether you're a fly fishing purist or prefer spinning gear, landing one of these beauties is always a thrill.
Lake Sturgeon: Now we're talking prehistoric. These living fossils can grow over 10 feet long and live for decades. Sturgeon fishing is all about patience and power. We'll be dropping baits to the bottom and waiting for that telltale thump. When it comes, be ready for a marathon. These fish don't come up easy, but the fight is half the fun. Just remember, it's catch and release for these gentle giants - we want to make sure they're around for future generations to enjoy.
Look, if you're reading this, you know fishing isn't just a hobby - it's an obsession. This trip is your chance to scratch that itch and maybe land the fish of a lifetime. Four hours might not sound like much, but trust me, it's plenty of time to make some serious memories on the Columbia. The fish are out there, the gear's ready to go, and the captain's itching to put you on some monsters. All that's missing is you. So what are you waiting for? Grab your spot on the boat, and let's show those fish who's boss. The Columbia's calling, and the fish are waiting. You in?
The king of Pacific salmon, Chinooks are the heavyweights anglers dream about. These bruisers can top 30 pounds, with trophy fish pushing 50. Look for them in deep holes and current seams as they migrate upriver to spawn. Spring and fall runs offer prime fishing, but timing varies by river. Chinooks put up an epic fight - be ready for screaming reels and acrobatic jumps. Their rich, orange flesh makes fantastic eating too. To improve your odds, try backtrolling plugs in deeper water or drifting roe under a float near the bottom. Keep an eye on water temps - Chinooks prefer it cool, around 55-64°F. When conditions align, hooking into one of these monsters will test your skills and equipment to the max.
These living fossils are the true giants of freshwater. Lake sturgeon can live over 100 years and grow to 300 pounds, though most you'll catch are 3-6 feet long. They cruise along the bottom of deep rivers and lakes, using barbels to find food. Spring offers the best fishing as they move shallow to spawn. Sturgeon fight like a freight train - be ready for a battle that can last hours. While not known for taste, the thrill is in the catch and release. Look for them near deep holes, eddies, and drop-offs. Use heavy tackle and a glob of nightcrawlers on the bottom. Be patient - sturgeon bites are subtle. When you feel a tap, wait to set the hook until the fish moves off with the bait. Landing one of these prehistoric beasts is an unforgettable experience for any angler.
These colorful acrobats are a fly fisher's dream, but they'll hit just about any lure or bait. Typically 1-5 pounds, rainbows inhabit cold, clear rivers and lakes across Oregon. Look for them near riffles, pools, and undercut banks where they ambush insects and small fish. Spring and fall offer great fishing as water temps cool. Rainbows are known for their spectacular fights - expect drag-screaming runs and airborne leaps when you hook one. They're also delicious, with firm pink flesh perfect for the grill. To up your odds, try drifting a nymph under an indicator through likely holding water. Keep your casts short and precise - these trout can be line-shy in clear water. Landing a feisty rainbow is always a thrill, whether you're a seasoned angler or just starting out.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6
Manufacturer Name: Mercury
Maximum Cruising Speed: 25
Number of Engines: 2
Horsepower per Engine: 200