Top-Rated Columbia River Fishing Trip | Blair's

Columbia River's Ultimate 8-Hour Fishing Trip

Get ready for a full day of non-stop action on the mighty Columbia River! Guide James knows these waters like the back of his hand, and he's itching to put you on some monster walleye, salmon, and sturgeon. This 8-hour shared trip is perfect for anglers of all skill levels – whether you're looking to land your personal best or just want to spend a day soaking up the scenery and feeling the tug on your line. At $275 per person (with a two-person minimum), you're in for a world-class fishing experience without breaking the bank. Let's dive into what makes this trip a can't-miss adventure for any serious angler.

What to Expect on the Water

When you hop aboard James' boat, you're in for a treat. He runs a tight ship, but keeps things fun and relaxed. You'll start the day by going over safety basics and getting the lowdown on the day's game plan. James is a master at reading the river, so he'll adjust tactics based on conditions to maximize your chances of success. Expect to cover a good stretch of water as you target different species throughout the day. You might start off trolling for salmon, switch to jigging for walleye, and then anchor up for some sturgeon action. The variety keeps things exciting, and there's rarely a dull moment. Don't worry if you're new to these techniques – James is a patient teacher and will have you fishing like a pro in no time.

Top Catches This Season

The Columbia River is famous for its diverse fishery, and this trip gives you a shot at some real trophies. Walleye fishing has been on fire lately, with lots of chunky 3-5 pounders coming to the boat. If you're lucky, you might even tangle with a 10+ pound wall-hanger! Salmon action depends on the run, but when it's good, it's spectacular. Chinook (king) salmon in the 15-30 pound range are not uncommon, and they fight like freight trains. As for sturgeon – hold onto your hat! These prehistoric beasts can top 10 feet and give you the fight of your life. Even if you don't land a monster, the sheer power of these fish will leave you with stories for years to come. James uses top-notch gear and proven techniques to put you in the best position for success, whether you're drop-shotting for walleye or working a plug for salmon.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

There's a reason James' trips book up fast – he delivers results and a great time on the water. His local knowledge is second to none, and he's always willing to share tips and tricks to help you become a better angler. But it's not just about the fish. The Columbia River gorge is a stunning backdrop for your day on the water, with towering cliffs, lush forests, and maybe even a bald eagle sighting or two. James keeps the mood light with fishing stories and local lore, making the day fly by even when the bite is slow. And let's be honest – there's nothing quite like the camaraderie that develops when you're sharing a boat and the thrill of the catch with fellow anglers. By the end of the day, you'll have new friends and hopefully some epic fish photos to show for it.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Walleye: These tasty predators are a Columbia River staple. Known for their excellent table fare and challenging fight, walleye typically range from 1-5 pounds, with trophy specimens pushing 10 pounds or more. They love to hang out near drop-offs and current seams, often in schools. James is a master at finding these fish, using a combination of electronics and good old-fashioned river reading. Walleye fishing is great year-round, but spring and fall tend to be prime time for numbers and size.

Salmon: The Columbia's salmon runs are legendary, and for good reason. You'll be targeting primarily Chinook (king) salmon, with the occasional coho mixed in. These silver bullets are prized for both their fighting ability and their rich, flavorful meat. Spring and fall are the peak seasons, with fish averaging 10-20 pounds. But don't be surprised if you hook into a 30+ pound bruiser – it happens more often than you'd think! Trolling with herring or plugs is the name of the game, and when you get that first bite, hold on tight!

Sturgeon: Often called the "dinosaurs of the river," white sturgeon are an angler's dream. These ancient fish can live for over 100 years and grow to truly massive proportions. While you're not allowed to keep the big ones, catch-and-release fishing for sturgeon is an experience you'll never forget. Using heavy tackle and strong bait like pickled squid or fresh salmon parts, you'll anchor up in deep holes where these behemoths lurk. When a sturgeon takes your bait, be ready for an arm-wrenching battle that can last anywhere from 15 minutes to over an hour for the real giants. It's not uncommon to hook fish in the 6-8 foot range, with true monsters topping 10 feet!

Time to Book Your Spot

Look, if you're still on the fence about this trip, let me put it plainly – you don't want to miss out. James' 8-hour Columbia River adventure is the real deal. You're getting a seasoned guide, top-notch equipment, and a shot at three of the most sought-after game fish in the Pacific Northwest. All this for $275 per person is an absolute steal. Whether you're a die-hard angler looking to add to your trophy wall or a casual fisherman wanting to experience the best the Columbia has to offer, this trip checks all the boxes. But here's the kicker – spots fill up fast, especially during prime seasons. So don't wait around and risk missing your chance at the catch of a lifetime. Grab a buddy (remember, there's a two-person minimum), give Blair's Sport Fishing a call, and lock in your date. Trust me, the only thing you'll regret is not doing it sooner. Tight lines, and we'll see you on the river!