Top-Rated Oregon Shared Fishing Charter | BJ's Guide

Oregon's Finest: Salmon, Sturgeon & Trout Adventure

Get ready for a full day of non-stop fishing action on Oregon's legendary waters! BJ's Guide Service is offering an 8-hour shared charter that'll have you casting for some of the Pacific Northwest's most prized catches. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting your feet wet, this trip is tailored to give you the best shot at landing Chinook and Coho salmon, sturgeon, and rainbow trout. We'll be hitting up prime spots on the mighty Columbia River and nearby coastal waters, depending on where the fish are biting. No need to fuss with gear – we've got you covered with top-notch tackle and bait. Just remember to pack your fishing license, rain gear (because, well, it's Oregon), and some grub to keep you fueled up for a day of reeling in the big ones.

What to Expect on the Water

Climb aboard for an early morning start as we set out to chase the bite. Our experienced guides know these waters like the back of their hand, so you'll be in prime position to hook into some serious fish. We'll be targeting different species throughout the day, adapting our techniques to match what's running. Expect to try your hand at trolling for salmon, bottom fishing for sturgeon, or drifting for trout. Don't worry if you're new to this – our guides are patient teachers and will have you casting like a pro in no time. The Columbia River is known for its powerful currents and scenic beauty, so even when the fish aren't jumping, you'll be soaking in views of the gorge and maybe spotting some local wildlife. Be ready for anything from calm waters to choppy conditions – that's part of the adventure!

Top Catches This Season

Fishing in Oregon is all about knowing what's running when. In spring and early summer, we're often chasing after the legendary Chinook salmon, also known as King salmon. These bruisers can tip the scales at over 30 pounds, so hold on tight! As summer progresses, we shift gears to target the acrobatic Coho salmon, famous for their wild leaps and runs. Fall brings opportunities for both salmon species, plus some stellar trout fishing. And let's not forget about sturgeon – these prehistoric-looking fish are available year-round and can grow to massive sizes. We use a mix of techniques depending on our target species. For salmon, we might be trolling with herring or running plugs. Sturgeon fishing often involves anchoring up and using heavy tackle with bait like squid or sardines. Trout fishing can be more finesse-based, using lighter gear and drifting with bait or lures. No matter the technique, we'll make sure you're comfortable and ready to set the hook when that big one bites!

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

There's something special about fishing in Oregon that keeps folks coming back year after year. Maybe it's the thrill of battling a chrome-bright salmon fresh from the ocean, or the anticipation of what monster sturgeon might be lurking in the depths. Or perhaps it's the camaraderie that develops on the boat, swapping fish stories and sharing in the excitement of each catch. Our trips are designed to be inclusive – whether you're a solo angler looking to join a group or planning a day out with friends, you'll fit right in. And let's be honest, there's nothing quite like the satisfaction of bringing home some of the freshest, wildest salmon you'll ever taste. Just remember, fishing isn't just about what you catch – it's about the whole experience. The early morning mist on the river, the bald eagles soaring overhead, and the peaceful moments between bites all add up to a day you won't soon forget.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Chinook Salmon: The king of Pacific salmon, Chinook are prized for their size and fighting ability. These powerhouses can reach over 40 pounds, with the average catch in the 15-25 pound range. They're known for their deep, powerful runs and are considered by many to be the ultimate salmon fishing experience. Spring and fall are prime times to target Chinook, with the spring run often producing the largest fish. When you hook into one of these, be prepared for an arm-wrenching battle!

Coho Salmon: Also known as silver salmon, Coho are the acrobats of the salmon world. They're famous for their spectacular aerial displays when hooked, often leaping clear of the water multiple times. While typically smaller than Chinook, averaging 6-12 pounds, what they lack in size they make up for in feistiness. Late summer and fall are the best times to target Coho, and their firm, orange flesh makes for excellent eating.

Lake Sturgeon: These living fossils are like nothing else you'll catch in freshwater. Sturgeon can live for decades and grow to truly massive sizes – fish over 100 pounds are not uncommon, and the occasional monster topping 300 pounds is possible. Sturgeon fishing is often a game of patience, waiting for these bottom-dwellers to take the bait. But when they do, hold on tight! The initial run of a big sturgeon can strip line from your reel faster than you can imagine. While they're available year-round, winter and early spring often produce the best action.

Rainbow Trout: For many anglers, rainbow trout represent the classic fishing experience. These beautiful fish are known for their colorful spotted patterns and the vibrant pink stripe along their sides. In the Columbia River system, you can find both resident rainbows and sea-run steelhead (which are essentially rainbow trout that migrate to the ocean). Rainbows typically range from 1-5 pounds, though larger specimens are possible. They're aggressive feeders and great sport on light tackle, often putting on acrobatic displays when hooked. Fall through spring is usually the best time to target rainbows, especially when water temperatures are cooler.

Time to Book Your Spot

Alright, folks, if you're not itching to get out on the water by now, check your pulse! This full-day charter with BJ's Guide Service is your ticket to experiencing some of the best fishing Oregon has to offer. Whether you're dreaming of battling a trophy Chinook, testing your skills against a high-flying Coho, feeling the raw power of a sturgeon, or finessing some beautiful rainbow trout, we've got you covered. Remember, our experienced guides will be there every step of the way, from rigging your gear to netting your catch. All you need to bring is your sense of adventure (and maybe a camera to capture the moment you land that fish of a lifetime). Spots on these trips tend to fill up fast, especially during peak seasons, so don't wait to lock in your date. Give BJ's Guide Service a call today and get ready for a fishing trip you'll be bragging about for years to come. Trust me, there's nothing quite like the feeling of that first big hit of the day – and it's waiting for you right here in Oregon's fish-rich waters!