Raised in the heart of Eastern Washington’s Yakima Valley, Captain James Blair discovered his calling to the Columbia River at an early age. Growing up near Toppenish, he spent countless hours trekking to the Yakima River and I‐82 ponds armed with nothing more than a life jacket, a rod, and a tackle box of Rooster Tails—an early gift from his step‐grandparents. Those solo outings shaped the self‐reliance and fish‐finding intuition he now brings to every guided trip as a leading Columbia River fishing guide.
Adversity refined James’s passion for the water. After losing both parents to addiction and later his grandmother in a tragic accident, fishing became his sanctuary and motivation. Throughout high school and into adulthood, he walked riverbanks, logged catches, and studied seasonal migrations of salmon, sturgeon, and walleye. This hard‐won experience—paired with a deep respect for the river’s ecosystem—forms the backbone of Blair’s Sport Fishing, the guide service he founded to share the healing power of the outdoors.
Today, Captain James is known for blending local insight with patient instruction. Certified, insured, and committed to conservation, he tailors excursions for novices and seasoned anglers alike, teaching reading water, lure selection, and responsible fish handling. His personal journey resonates with guests who value authenticity as much as tight lines, making him one of the most trusted names among Washington fishing guides.
Fish the Columbia River in Comfort Aboard Our Custom Jet Sled
Your day on the water unfolds aboard Captain James’s custom 23‐foot welded‐aluminum jet sled—purpose‐built for the Columbia’s changing depths and swift currents. Powered by a 250 HP outboard with a bow‐mounted electric trolling motor, the boat seats up to six anglers comfortably and features a walk‐through windshield, large fish box, and high‐quality electronics for precise navigation. Safety gear, premium rods, and species‐specific tackle are always on board, ensuring a stable, efficient, and productive platform for chasing Columbia River salmon, oversize sturgeon, or trophy walleye.
Blair's Sport Fishing Available Trips
WHAT'S INCLUDED
Good to Knows
Trip Includes:
- Rods, Reels & Tackle
- Live Bait (When Applicable)
What to bring:
- Hat, Sunscreen, Polaroid Sunglasses
- Wear weather appropriate clothing
- Food & Drinks
-Fishing License
DEPOSIT: A deposit is required for all bookings and will be applied at checkout
BALANCE: The remaining balance is due on the trip date as either Credit or Cash.
GUEST CANCELLATION: In the event that you must cancel your booking, you must do so 3 days prior to your trip date to receive a refund on your deposit. Rescheduling is encouraged and dependent on guide availability.
GUIDE CANCELLATION: In the rare event that your guide must cancel due to inclement weather, health, or equipment issues, you will have the option to reschedule your charter for a later date or receive a refund on your deposit.
TIPPING: Tips to your guide are greatly appreciated for your quality trip.
BOAT
Blair's Sport Fishing
boat Type: Motorboat (engine-powered)
boat Guest Capacity: 6
boat Length: 24
Manufacturer Name: Willies Raptor
Model Year: 2003
Number of Engines: 2
Horsepower per Engine: 150
Maximum Cruising Speed: 38
boat Registration: Not Given