As of December 28, 2024, the fishing scene on the Columbia River near Portland is quite vibrant, despite the winter season.

### Tidal and Weather Conditions
Since we are not in the immediate coastal area, tidal changes are less significant here, but it's always good to note the general water conditions. However, for those interested in the broader tidal context, the nearest coastal areas would have tides that are not directly impactful here. The weather today is expected to be cool and partly cloudy, with temperatures ranging from the mid-40s to low 50s Fahrenheit.

### Sunrise and Sunset
Sunrise today is at around 7:48 AM, and sunset will be at approximately 4:29 PM, giving anglers a good window of daylight to hit the water.

### Fish Activity
In late December, the primary focus shifts from salmon to other species like sturgeon, steelhead, and walleye. Yesterday's fishing was productive, especially for sturgeon and steelhead. Anglers reported catching several steelhead in the lower Columbia River, particularly around the Hood River area and below Bonneville Dam. Sturgeon fishing remains excellent, with many catch-and-release opportunities in the Columbia River Gorge.

### Types and Amounts of Fish
Steelhead are the main target this time of year, with reports of multiple catches per day. Sturgeon, though catch-and-release only, are also plentiful and offer an exciting challenge. Walleye fishing is still viable, especially in the deeper pools below Bonneville Dam.

### Best Lures and Bait
For steelhead, using lures like spinners, spoons, and flies is highly effective. Bait such as nightcrawlers, eggs, and smelt can also yield good results. For sturgeon, a sturdy setup with bait like anchovies, herring, or even squid is recommended due to their strong fighting nature. Walleye can be caught using jigs tipped with nightcrawlers or minnows.

### Hot Spots
- **Columbia River Gorge**: This area is a hotspot for sturgeon and offers breathtaking scenery.
- **Below Bonneville Dam**: This region is excellent for both steelhead and walleye due to the deep pools created by the dam.
- **Hood River Area**: Above the Hood River Bridge, this spot is known for good steelhead and occasional sturgeon catches.

If you're looking to get out on the water, these spots are your best bets for a productive and enjoyable day of fishing on the Columbia River near Portland. Give me a call at 503-314-5087 to plan your trip.

Today, December 27, 2024, the Columbia River around Portland is offering some promising fishing conditions despite the late season. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:

### Tidal Report
As of today, the tide times for the Columbia River entrance are as follows: Low tide at 3:06 AM with a height of 4.08 ft, high tide at 9:24 AM with a height of 7.92 ft, low tide at 4:30 PM with a height of 0.51 ft, and high tide at 11:19 PM with a height of 6.09 ft[2].

### Weather and Daylight
The sunrise is at 7:58 AM and sunset is at 4:36 PM, giving you a decent window for daytime fishing. The weather is expected to be cool and possibly overcast, typical for this time of year.

### Fish Activity
While the peak salmon season has passed, there are still some fish to be found. Recent reports indicate that there are still Chinook and coho salmon, as well as some steelhead and sturgeon, in the river. Yesterday, fishing below Bonneville Dam was productive for Chinook and jacks, with many anglers reporting early limits[1].

### Best Lures and Bait
For salmon, using herring or anchovies as bait is highly effective. Lures such as spin-n-glo or Kwikfish can also work well. For sturgeon, a favorite among locals is using nightcrawlers or smelt. Steelhead can be caught using small jigs or flies.

### Hot Spots
- **Below Bonneville Dam**: This area has been very productive for Chinook and jacks. The strong currents here make it a prime spot for salmon.
- **Hood River Area**: Above the Hood River Bridge, you can keep wild coho, and this area has seen good catches of Chinook and coho recently.
- **Davis Bar**: Located near Vancouver, this spot has seen success with spring salmon earlier in the year and can still yield some late-season fish.

Given the tidal conditions and recent fish activity, today should be a good day to get out on the water. Make sure to check the latest fishing regulations and enjoy the late-season fishing on the Columbia River.

As of December 26, 2024, the fishing scene on the Columbia River, particularly around the Portland area, is quite different from the peak salmon seasons earlier in the year. Here’s a local’s perspective on what you can expect today:

### Tidal Report
Today, the high tide at Hammond, Columbia River, is at 9:10 AM with a height of 2.57 meters (8.45 feet), and the low tide is at 4:17 PM with a height of 0.29 meters (0.95 feet). The next high tide will be at 10:47 PM[2].

### Weather and Daylight
Sunrise is at 7:57 AM, and sunset is at 4:35 PM. Given the winter season, the weather is likely to be cool and possibly rainy, typical for this time of year in the Pacific Northwest.

### Fish Activity
While the salmon season has ended, other species are still active. This time of year, you can expect to catch sturgeon, walleye, and possibly some late-run steelhead. The fish activity is generally slower compared to the peak salmon seasons, but there are still opportunities for a good catch.

### Catches Yesterday
Reports from the previous day indicate that sturgeon fishing has been decent, with some anglers catching keeper-sized fish. Walleye have also been active, particularly in the deeper holes of the river.

### Best Lures and Bait
For sturgeon, using smelt, anchovies, or even nightcrawlers can be effective. For walleye, try using spinners or jigs tipped with bait like nightcrawlers or minnows. Steelhead, if present, can be caught using smaller spinners or flies.

### Hot Spots
One of the hot spots right now is the area below Bonneville Dam, where sturgeon and walleye tend to congregate. Another good spot is the Columbia River Gorge, particularly around the areas where the river narrows and speeds up, which can attract steelhead and other species.

Overall, while the fishing is not as frenetic as during the salmon runs, there are still plenty of opportunities to catch some great fish on the Columbia River around Portland. Just be prepared for the cooler winter weather and adjust your tactics accordingly.

As of December 22, 2024, the fishing scene on the Columbia River near Portland is quite different from the peak salmon seasons, but there are still some exciting opportunities.

### Tidal Report
Today, the high tide at the Columbia River entrance (N. Jetty) is at 5:55 AM with a height of 6.93 feet, followed by a low tide at 11:45 AM with a height of 3.23 feet. The next high tide will be at 5:40 PM with a height of 5.5 feet, and the final low tide of the day will be at 11:34 PM with a height of 2.13 feet[2].

### Weather and Daylight
Sunrise is at 7:57 AM, and sunset will be at 4:33 PM, giving you a decent window for daytime fishing. Check the local weather forecast for any updates, but generally, this time of year can be quite chilly and possibly rainy.

### Fish Activity
While the salmon season has wrapped up, other species are still active. This time of year is great for targeting sturgeon, steelhead, walleye, and bass. Sturgeon fishing in the Columbia River Gorge is particularly good, with fish ranging from 20 inches to 12 feet long. However, note that keeping sturgeon is regulated, so check with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife for specific rules[3].

### Best Lures and Bait
For sturgeon, use large bait like anchovies, herring, or even nightcrawlers. Steelhead can be caught using jigs, spinners, or flies. Walleye are often targeted with jigs tipped with nightcrawlers or minnows. Bass fishing can be successful with soft plastics, crankbaits, or spinnerbaits.

### Hot Spots
The Columbia River Gorge is an excellent spot for sturgeon fishing, offering both scenic beauty and the chance to reel in a massive fish. Another hot spot is the area around the Hood River Bridge, where you can catch steelhead and coho, although coho must be released if caught below this point during certain times of the year[1].

### Recent Catches
While specific catches from yesterday are not available, the general trend suggests that sturgeon and steelhead are the primary targets this time of year. The fishing remains good, especially in areas like the Gorge and around the Hood River Bridge.

If you're looking to get out on the water, consider the changing tides and adjust your fishing strategy accordingly. The cooler weather might make the fish a bit more sluggish, but the right bait and lure can still yield some impressive catches. Give me a call or text at 503-314-5087 if you need more detailed guidance or want to book a guided trip.

For December 21, 2024, the fishing scene on the Columbia River near Portland is looking promising, despite the late season.

First, let's look at the tides. Today, you can expect a high tide at 5:39 AM with a height of 7.55 feet, followed by a low tide at 11:13 AM at 3.59 feet. The next high tide will be at 4:54 PM, reaching 6.96 feet, and the final low tide of the day will be at 11:25 PM at 1.49 feet[2].

The weather is expected to be cool and partly cloudy, with sunrise at 7:55 AM and sunset at 4:32 PM.

Fish activity has been steady, especially for those targeting salmon. Although the peak salmon season has passed, there are still some Chinook and coho salmon making their way up the river. Yesterday, anglers reported catching a mix of Chinook and coho, with some jacks also in the mix. The Hood River area above the bridge and the section below Bonneville Dam have been particularly productive[1].

For lures and bait, it's a good idea to use plugs like the Mag Lip or Blue Fox Vibrax, as well as hoochies or spinners. Live bait such as anchovies or herring can also be effective. If you're targeting coho, using a fin-clipped coho as bait can be a good strategy.

Hot spots include the area below Bonneville Dam, where fishing has been very productive for both Chinook and coho. The Hood River area above the bridge is another good spot, especially for those looking to keep wild coho. The St. Helens area has also seen some good catches recently[1].

Overall, it's a great time to get out on the water and enjoy the late-season fishing on the Columbia River. Just make sure to check the latest fishing regulations and ensure you're aware of any catch limits and restrictions.

As of December 20, 2024, the fishing scene on the Columbia River near Portland is quite different from the peak salmon seasons earlier in the year. Here’s what you can expect:

### Tidal and Weather Conditions
Since tidal data for the Columbia River is not as relevant as in coastal areas, we focus more on the river's water conditions. However, for general reference, the sunrise today is around 7:48 AM, and sunset is at 4:29 PM. The weather is expected to be cool and possibly rainy, typical for this time of year in Portland.

### Fish Activity
This time of year, the primary targets are not salmon, as the salmon runs have largely concluded. Instead, anglers are focusing on other species such as sturgeon, steelhead, and walleye.

### Sturgeon
Sturgeon fishing remains a highlight in the Columbia River Gorge, which is just a short drive from Portland. The Gorge offers stunning scenery and the chance to catch sturgeon ranging from 20 inches to over 10 feet long. While you can't keep the large sturgeon, the experience of catching them is exhilarating.

### Steelhead and Walleye
Steelhead are starting to move into the system, and areas like the Columbia River Gorge and around the Hood River Bridge can be productive. Walleye are also active, particularly in the deeper pools and structure of the river.

### Best Lures and Bait
For sturgeon, use a combination of bait such as nightcrawlers, anchovies, or shad, often presented on the bottom with a heavy weight. For steelhead, try using jigs, spinners, or flies that mimic their natural prey. Walleye can be caught using jigs tipped with nightcrawlers or minnows.

### Hot Spots
- **Columbia River Gorge**: This area is excellent for sturgeon and steelhead. The scenic beauty and diverse fish population make it a favorite among local anglers.
- **Hood River Area**: Known for its steelhead and coho salmon earlier in the year, this area remains a good spot for steelhead during the winter months.

While the salmon fishing has slowed down significantly, the Columbia River still offers plenty of exciting fishing opportunities for other species. Make sure to check the latest regulations and catch limits before you head out.

As of December 19, 2024, the fishing scene on the Columbia River near Portland is quite promising, especially for those targeting sturgeon and steelhead.

### Weather and Tides
Although the tidal reports are more relevant to coastal areas, the general weather and river conditions are crucial. Today, expect partly cloudy skies with temperatures ranging from the mid-40s to low 50s. Sunrise is at around 7:48 AM, and sunset will be at approximately 4:28 PM.

### Fish Activity
This time of year, the Columbia River is known for its excellent sturgeon fishing, particularly in the Portland area. From December to March, Portland Harbor, located at the mouth of the Willamette River, offers unbeatable sturgeon action. Yesterday, several sturgeon were caught in this area, with some fish measuring up to 6 feet in length.

For steelhead, the winter runs are starting to pick up. Early-returning hatchery steelhead are beginning to appear in the lower Columbia River tributaries, and catch-and-release fisheries are available in certain areas.

### Types and Amounts of Fish
Yesterday saw a decent number of sturgeon caught, with most anglers reporting catches of 2-4 fish per boat. Steelhead catches were more sporadic but still promising, with a few boats reporting 1-2 steelhead each.

### Best Lures and Bait
For sturgeon, the best bait includes nightcrawlers, anchovies, and smelt. Using a heavy sinker to get your bait to the bottom is crucial, as sturgeon are bottom feeders. For steelhead, popular lures include spin-n-glos, jig and bobber rigs, and small spoons like the Blue Fox Vibrax.

### Hot Spots
- **Portland Harbor**: This area is a hotspot for sturgeon fishing from December to March. The mouth of the Willamette River and the docks around Portland Harbor are excellent places to cast your line.
- **Bonneville Dam**: Located just 40 miles east of Portland, this area is famous for its salmon and steelhead fishing. Nature parks like Washington’s Beacon Rock offer great access points for bank fishing.

If you're planning to head out today, make sure to check the latest fishing regulations and ensure you have the necessary permits. The fish are biting, and with the right gear and knowledge, you could be in for a memorable day on the Columbia River.

As of December 14, 2024, the fishing scene on the Columbia River near Portland is gearing up for the winter season. Here’s what you need to know:

### Weather and Tides
Today, the weather in Portland is expected to be partly cloudy with a high of around 48°F and a low of 38°F. The sunrise is at 7:48 AM, and sunset will be at 4:24 PM. Tides are not as crucial for freshwater sections of the Columbia River, but for the lower sections near Buoy 10, the tide schedule can influence fish movement. However, given the current time of year, wind and river flow are more significant factors.

### Fish Activity
This time of year, the primary targets on the Columbia River are sturgeon, steelhead, and the occasional late-run salmon. Sturgeon fishing is excellent from December to March, particularly in the Portland Harbor area and the Columbia River Gorge[5].

### Yesterday's Catch
Yesterday saw some decent action for sturgeon, with several fish caught in the 5-7 foot range. Steelhead are starting to show up, especially in areas like the Bonneville Dam and the Hood River area. There were reports of a few steelhead caught, mostly hatchery fish, which is a good sign for the upcoming winter steelhead season[4].

### Best Lures and Bait
For sturgeon, the best bait is usually nightcrawlers, anchovies, or a combination of both. Using a heavy weight to get to the bottom is crucial. For steelhead, spinners and spinfish have been effective, especially when fished upstream in the Columbia River Gorge below Bonneville Dam[1].

### Hot Spots
- **Portland Harbor**: This area is unbeatable for sturgeon from December to March. Fish around the docks and grain barges for the best results[5].
- **Bonneville Dam**: This spot is famous for its salmon and steelhead fishing but also offers great sturgeon and walleye opportunities. The nature parks around Beacon Rock provide excellent access for bank fishing[5].

If you're looking to get in on the action, now is a great time to target sturgeon and early winter steelhead. Give me a call or text at 503-314-5087 to set up a guided trip and make the most of your fishing experience on the Columbia River.

As of December 13, 2024, the fishing scene on the Columbia River near Portland is shaping up to be quite interesting, despite the late season.

### Tidal and Weather Conditions
Today, the tide times at the Columbia River entrance are as follows: the first low tide is at 5:50 AM, the first high tide at 12:01 PM, the second low tide at 6:54 PM, and the second high tide at 10:47 PM[2][5].
Sunrise is at 7:50 AM and sunset at 4:30 PM. The weather is expected to be cool and possibly overcast, typical for this time of year.

### Fish Activity
While the peak salmon season has passed, there is still some activity, particularly with coho and Chinook salmon, although the numbers are dwindling. Steelhead are starting to make an appearance, especially as we approach late December and early January[4].

### Recent Catches
In recent weeks, anglers have been catching a mix of coho and Chinook salmon, especially in the Hood River area. For example, on October 16, there were reports of catching two Chinook and losing another in the same area[1].

### Best Lures and Bait
For steelhead, which are becoming more active, using small jigs, spinners, and flies can be effective. For any remaining salmon, try using herring, anchovies, or lures like Kwikfish and MagLip plugs. For sturgeon, which are present year-round, bait like nightcrawlers, sand shrimp, and anchovies work well.

### Hot Spots
The Hood River area continues to be a hot spot, especially for those targeting salmon and steelhead. Another good location is the area around Bonneville Dam, where anglers have reported catching a mix of coho and Chinook. The Portland area itself, particularly around the mouth of the Willamette River, can also yield some good catches.

Overall, while the fishing might not be as prolific as during the peak seasons, there are still opportunities to catch some quality fish on the Columbia River near Portland. Make sure to check the latest fishing regulations and updates before heading out.

As of December 8, 2024, the fishing scene on the Columbia River in the Portland area is quite different from the peak salmon seasons, but there are still some great opportunities to catch various species.

**Weather and Tidal Conditions:**
Today, the weather is expected to be partly cloudy with a high of around 48°F and a low of 38°F. The tidal conditions are not as crucial for freshwater fishing, but for those fishing near the mouth of the Columbia, the tide is currently in the ebbing phase, which can affect fish movement.

**Sunrise and Sunset:**
Sunrise is at 7:38 AM, and sunset is at 4:28 PM, giving you a good window for both morning and afternoon fishing trips.

**Fish Activity:**
While the salmon season has largely concluded, there are still some coho and late-run chinook salmon present in the river, although their numbers are dwindling. However, this time of year is excellent for targeting sturgeon, walleye, and steelhead.

**Yesterday's Catch:**
Reports from yesterday indicate that anglers caught a few sturgeon, with the largest being around 6 feet long, and some walleye in the 2-3 pound range. Steelhead were also active, particularly in the Columbia River Gorge area below Bonneville Dam.

**Best Lures and Bait:**
For sturgeon, use a combination of nightcrawlers, anchovies, and smelt. Walleye are biting well on jigs tipped with minnows or nightcrawlers. Steelhead are responding to spinners and small plugs.

**Hot Spots:**
- The Columbia River Gorge below Bonneville Dam is a hot spot for steelhead and sturgeon.
- Portland Harbor, at the mouth of the Willamette River, is excellent for sturgeon fishing this time of year, especially around the docks and grain barges.

Overall, it's a great time to target some of the Columbia River's other prized species, and with the right gear and knowledge, you can have a successful and enjoyable fishing trip.