Columbia River Portland Fishing Report Today

Good morning anglers, this is Artificial Lure with your Columbia River fishing report for May 14, 2025.

We rolled into the day with mostly cloudy skies and temps starting in the mid-50s, warming up into the 60s as the day goes on. Rain is in the forecast again, which could freshen up the bite and bring new runs of fish pushing through the system. Sunrise today was at 5:41 AM and sunset will be at 8:36 PM, so you have plenty of daylight to get after it.

Tidal movement in Portland is moderate today, and with a little rain and those shifting flows, you can expect fish to move, especially during the outgoing tide. Make sure to check a local tide chart for timing if you’re fishing the lower river or around Sauvie Island.

The spring chinook salmon run is picking up but still hasn’t hit its full stride. Recent catches have been scattered, with some springers being reported from the airport stretch downstream and in the Bonneville area, though it’s still on the slow side. The Oregon and Washington fish and wildlife departments are opening select days for spring chinook in the lower Columbia this month, so check regulations before you hit the water. There’s a good forecast for upriver spring chinook this year, so the best could be just around the corner[1][5].

Sturgeon action has been steady, with folks catching good numbers on the lower Willamette and Columbia, especially on catch-and-release trips. Down around the mouth of the Willamette and near the St. Johns Bridge are reliable spots—expect sturgeon to run from shaker size to some real giants in the deeper holes[2].

For baits and lures, trolling herring or prawn spinners behind a flasher is still the best bet for spring chinook. Chartreuse and natural bait colors are working, especially with the water just a bit murky from recent rains. Some anglers are picking up fish on Brad’s Super Baits stuffed with tuna or scent. For sturgeon, fresh smelt or squid is the go-to—especially with smelt still in the system up to the airport[1][5].

Hot spots worth checking today include the Portland International Airport stretch down to Sauvie Island for salmon, especially on a moving tide, and the Willamette-Columbia confluence for both salmon and sturgeon. Meldrum Bar up by Oregon City is also worth a look, especially if the Willamette starts to clear up.

Trout fishing in nearby lakes and rivers is a strong option right now, with good spring hatches and hungry fish if you need a break from the salmon grind[3].

That’s it for today’s Columbia River report. Tight lines, fish smart, and here’s to big bites and bent rods!

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.

Good morning folks, Artificial Lure here with your Columbia River fishing report for May 12, 2025.

Let me tell you, things are looking mighty fine on the Columbia these days. The spring Chinook run is in full swing, and after that hearing last Wednesday, we've got some additional recreational fishing days to look forward to. The upriver adult spring Chinook return is expected to hit that preseason forecast of 122,500 fish, so there's plenty of action to be had.

The fishing has been a bit spotty around Portland lately, but don't let that discourage you. If you're willing to head east toward Hood River, the bite has been much more consistent. Folks in the Gorge have been doing particularly well, and there are still good numbers of fish below Bonneville Dam making their way upriver.

For you walleye enthusiasts, the John Day Pool has been on fire! Recent checks showed 267 walleye kept and 141 released by boat anglers. The Dalles Pool isn't doing too shabby either, with 69 walleye kept and 47 released last week.

Sturgeon fishing is currently closed for retention throughout the Columbia, but the January 2025 keeper sturgeon season dates have been set for Bonneville and The Dalles pools, so mark your calendars for Wednesdays and Saturdays starting January 1.

Weather today is looking decent with temperatures in the mid-60s, light westerly winds, and partly cloudy skies. Sunrise was at 5:42 AM, and sunset will be at 8:34 PM, giving you plenty of daylight to work with.

As for tactics, I'm hearing that sardine-wrapped Kwikfish in red or chartreuse colors are producing well for spring Chinook. Herring and anchovies rigged in a spinner setup are also getting attention from the biters. For walleye, try bottom walkers with nightcrawler harnesses or jigging with 3/8 oz jigheads tipped with a 4-inch grub in motor oil or chartreuse.

Hot spots this week include the area around the I-205 bridge, Government Island for boat anglers, and Sauvie Island for bank access. If you're heading east, try around Cascade Locks or the mouth of the White Salmon River.

The black ant hatch is on too, so fish are looking up! Don't forget to pack some surface lures if the opportunity presents itself.

That's it for today, folks. Get out there and wet a line. This is Artificial Lure signing off until next time. Tight lines!

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.

This is Artificial Lure, your local angling expert reporting on the Columbia River fishing scene in and around Portland for Sunday, May 11, 2025.

Let’s start with river conditions and the bite. The Columbia’s in great shape, with a promising push of spring Chinook salmon showing up around Portland and into the lower river. Recent reports from the Davis Bar areas and the head of Multnomah Channel show the action heating up, especially later in the morning once the water starts to warm. According to the latest forecasts, this year’s spring salmon run is looking strong, with an estimated 217,500 fish predicted to move upstream, which is better than most recent years. We’re right in the heart of the run, so odds for hooking up are the best they’ve been all spring[1][4].

Weatherwise, the forecast is for cloudy skies with scattered showers throughout the day, but a little rain never keeps the locals off the water around here. Expect temps in the mid-50s to low 60s, with moderate winds picking up in the afternoon—so pick your spots with some shelter if you’re in a smaller boat. Sunrise today was about 5:40 am, and sunset will be at 8:25 pm, giving you a solid window to fish both ends of the day.

As for what’s being caught and what’s working: local boats have reported spring Chinook are being picked up trolling cut plug herring or spinners in the main river, especially on tide changes. Plugs like Mag Lip 3.5s in metallic finishes or chartreuse are also hot. If you’re targeting salmon from the bank, plunking cured roe or sand shrimp under a Spin-N-Glo is always a Portland standby. Moving upriver, some folks are still chasing sturgeon, though retention is closed in most pools, so it’s catch and release only[2][1][3].

Walleye fishing has been fantastic upriver from The Dalles east through the John Day Pool, with recent checks showing high numbers—over 260 walleye kept and 140 released last week alone for boat anglers up that way. Blade baits and worm harnesses in chartreuse or perch patterns are getting the most bites, especially when worked along current seams and drop-offs[2].

For those looking for a couple of hot spots, Davis Bar and the head of Multnomah Channel are both seeing consistent Chinook catches. For a chance at some epic catch-and-release sturgeon action, try near the I-205 Bridge or the mouth of the Willamette.

To recap: Salmon are the main draw now; herring, spinners, and cured roe are your best bets. Try Davis Bar or Multnomah Channel early or late, and if you want steady action for walleye, head upriver toward The Dalles or John Day Pool.

That’s your Columbia River report for today. Tight lines and see you on the water[1][2][3][4].

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.

Good morning fishers, this is Artificial Lure checking in with your Columbia River fishing report for May 10, 2025, covering the Portland area and surrounding waters.

First light hit at 5:39 a.m. today and we’re looking at a sunset around 8:29 p.m., so there’s plenty of daylight to wet a line. Weather’s cool and mostly cloudy with some rain expected later, which should give the water a welcome bump and help push some fresh fish upriver. The Columbia is running typical spring flows and still a bit high, but those in the know are saying the water clarity is improving by the day.

Let’s talk fish. Spring Chinook are the main game in town right now. The state has added open days for spring Chinook above Bonneville Dam, including today, so if you’re on the east side of town, you’ve got a good shot. Catches so far are pretty scattered with anglers picking up a few springers here and there, mostly upriver from Bonneville through the Tower Island stretch. Down around Portland International Airport and below, folks are starting to tangle with some salmon, but it’s still a little on the slow side. Best bet with Chinook is trolling herring or plug cut bait behind a flasher, or running a 360 flasher with a Pro-Troll and spinner. Chartreuse and gold have been working, especially when there’s a little color in the water. Bank anglers are still picking up a few using bobber and eggs, especially on Bonneville off the deadline.

If Chinook aren’t biting, the walleye bite is heating up just east of Portland, especially in The Dalles and John Day pools. This week, guides checked in with over 330 walleye kept and nearly 200 released in John Day alone. Jigs tipped with nightcrawler or soft plastics in fire tiger and perch patterns are pulling fish in 20 to 40 feet of water. Early mornings and evenings have been best.

Sturgeon retention is still closed throughout the Portland stretch and below Bonneville. That said, catch and release fishing is excellent if you’re after a tug; Willamette sloughs and the lower river are giving up some big ones, especially on smelt and squid baits. Remember, check the regs before you go.

Hot spots for the day: Try the waters around Government Island for Chinook, especially if you’re trolling. Walleye chasers should focus on The Dalles Pool east of Hood River, or closer to Portland, target above the I-205 bridge on a good tide exchange.

Tidal swing is modest today, with slow incoming tide through the morning, peaking in the early afternoon. Plan to cover the outgoing tide if you’re after Chinook downstream.

That wraps it up for today. Dress for rain, keep an eye on the weather, and as always, handle fish with care. Tight lines out there and good luck!

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.

Fishing report for Friday, May 9, 2025, here in the Portland stretch of the Columbia River. This is Artificial Lure with your daily rundown.

First up, if you’re chasing salmon or steelhead, you’ll be disappointed—salmon and steelhead angling is closed throughout the Columbia River from Buoy 10 up past Portland, as managers monitor the spring Chinook run size. Be sure to check the regulations before heading out, as these can change with the run progress, but for now, stay off salmon and steelhead in this section.

On the bright side, walleye and trout fishing have been strong. Walleye are biting well in The Dalles and John Day pools upriver, but some folks are picking up nice catches around Camas Slough and the mouth of the Willamette on the Portland side. If you’re after walleye, try trolling with worm harnesses, chartreuse or silver blade spinners, or jigging soft plastics in 15 to 35 feet. Early morning and just before sunset are the best windows.

Rainbow trout have turned on aggressively as well, especially in the cooler stretches and backwaters. Anglers are reporting good action on nightcrawlers, PowerBait, and small spoons or spinners. Rainbows are feeding heavy right now and the bite is best at first light.

Weather-wise, today starts out mild with patchy clouds and a steady west breeze. Expect rain in the afternoon, which may push a fresh run of fish upriver and stir up the bite. Sunrise hit at 5:43 am, and sunset will land at 8:27 pm, giving you a solid window on both ends.

For bait, bring nightcrawlers and soft plastics for both walleye and trout. For lures, go with bright chartreuse or silver for walleye and smaller spinners or spoons in metallic finishes for trout.

If you’re looking for the hottest spots, try the mouth of the Willamette for walleye and rainbows, especially where the current slows and baitfish gather. The Multnomah Channel can produce too, and the back eddies at Sauvie Island are always worth a shot this time of year.

Quick note for all anglers: the Oregon Health Authority has active consumption advisories in place for parts of the Columbia. Some fish contain elevated mercury or PCBs, so stay informed and check guidelines before you cook your catch.

That’s today’s report, direct from the banks of the Columbia. Good luck out there, and keep those lines tight[1][4][3].

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.

Hey folks, Artificial Lure here with your Columbia River fishing report for Wednesday, May 7, 2025.

The big news today is that the Columbia River from Buoy 10 all the way upstream to the Oregon/Washington border above McNary Dam remains closed for salmon and steelhead angling[1]. Fisheries managers are monitoring the upriver spring Chinook run size and might open additional opportunities as the run progresses, so stay tuned.

But don't put away your gear just yet! We've got a mixed bag of opportunities despite these closures. Walleye fishing is reporting good action in The Dalles and John Day pools[1]. If you're after these tasty fighters, now's your time to shine.

For you sturgeon enthusiasts, the keeper season in Bonneville and The Dalles pools that opened January 1st has wrapped up, but catch-and-release is still providing some excitement.

Shad fishing is starting to pick up as we move into May. Some prime spots include just below or above the mouth of the Sandy River in the Troutdale area, which is popular and easily accessible from the boat ramp[5]. If you're willing to venture a bit farther, the "Shad Rack" just up from Beacon Rock in the Columbia River Gorge is where the locals head for consistent action[5]. Use light tackle for these fighters - small bright-colored jigs work wonders.

We're also seeing some spring Chinooks starting to show in our rivers[4], though you'll need to target them in areas where fishing is permitted given the Columbia closure.

For hot spots today, I'd recommend trying Oregon City on the Willamette River for shad - anchor up in 10 to 20 feet of water, but be careful as the current is moving pretty fast this time of year[5]. Always make sure you have enough anchor rope!

Weather-wise, we've had some recent rain which should be pushing fresh fish into our systems[4]. If you're heading out today, bundle up for the morning chill but expect things to warm nicely by midday.

For those wanting to mix it up, crabbing has been decent, and interestingly, those Columbia River shad make excellent crab bait if you want to double-dip on your outing[5].

Remember to check the latest regulations before heading out as in-season changes are common this time of year[1]. And be aware of fish consumption advisories for parts of the Columbia due to mercury and PCBs[1].

Tight lines, everyone! This is Artificial Lure, signing off until next time.

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.

Artificial Lure here with your Columbia River fishing report for Monday, May 5, 2025.

Folks, it's a mixed bag on the Columbia today. The spring Chinook run is still the talk of the town, with this year's forecast of 122,500 fish slightly better than last year's return[5]. However, I need to give you the straight scoop - the Columbia River from Buoy 10 all the way up to the Oregon/Washington border above McNary Dam is currently closed for salmon and steelhead angling[1]. The fisheries departments are monitoring the upriver spring Chinook run and might open additional opportunities as the run progresses.

Not all is lost though! Walleye fishing is reported good in The Dalles and John Day pools[1]. Recent sturgeon checks showed no catch for five boats with only two anglers out trying their luck[1].

For those willing to adjust their targets, there have been spring Chinooks showing up in the tributaries. With the recent rainfall, we should be seeing fresh pushes of fish into our local rivers[3].

If you're heading to the Hood River area, that's been a consistent producer through fall, with good salmon action reported there as recently as October[2]. The Scappoose area had decent coho action in the fall as well.

For the sturgeon enthusiasts planning ahead, Oregon and Washington have already set the January 2026 keeper sturgeon season for the Bonneville and The Dalles pools, so mark your calendars for Wednesdays and Saturdays.

Hot spots today? I'd recommend trying your luck at Portland International Airport area where spring salmon were starting to show up in catches back in April[2]. Also, the tributaries are your best bet right now with the mainstem closures.

Bait-wise, for the walleye in The Dalles, try bottom walkers with worm harnesses or jigging with nightcrawlers. For sturgeon, fresh smelt or pickled squid has been productive.

Keep in mind there are fish consumption advisories for parts of the Columbia due to mercury and PCBs, so check the Oregon Health Authority guidelines before filling your freezer[1].

For the latest on regulations and openings, check the fishing regulation update page from ODFW or WDFW. Things change fast on the Columbia, especially with these spring Chinook seasons.

That's the word for today, folks. This is Artificial Lure signing off - tight lines and see you on the water!

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.

***Artificial Lure's Columbia River Fishing Report***

May 4, 2025

Mornin' anglers! Artificial Lure here with your Sunday fishing report for the Columbia River area around Portland.

First off, I gotta tell ya that the Columbia River from Buoy 10 all the way up to the Oregon/Washington border above McNary Dam is currently closed for salmon and steelhead angling. The fisheries folks are keeping an eye on the upriver spring Chinook run and might open things up as the run progresses, so stay tuned.

Weather today is looking decent for early May - we're expecting partly cloudy skies with temps reaching the mid-60s. Sunrise was at 5:47 AM and sunset will be around 8:24 PM, giving you plenty of daylight hours on the water.

The word on the water is that walleye fishing has been good in The Dalles and John Day pools. If you're after some tasty walleye, now's the time to get out there. I've heard from several locals that chartreuse jigs tipped with a nightcrawler have been the ticket lately.

For those willing to travel a bit, the Hood River area has been producing some decent catches. Recent reports show that salmon fishing in that area was good in late April, with plenty of fish still working their way upriver. The 2025 forecast for upriver spring Chinook is 122,500 fish, which is better than last year but still below the 10-year average.

If you're after sturgeon, mark your calendars - the keeper sturgeon season in Bonneville and The Dalles pools runs on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Check the regs for exact dates as this fishery is quota-based.

For hot spots, I'd recommend trying the Scappoose area for coho. There have been decent reports coming from there recently. Another good bet would be the waters near Portland's downtown, where bass fishing has picked up with the warming water.

Bait-wise, local anglers are having success with cured salmon eggs and sand shrimp. If you're more of a lure person like myself, K15 Kwikfish in chrome/chartreuse or copper/chartreuse have been working well along with Brad's Super Bait filled with tuna.

Remember to check for any fish consumption advisories before keeping your catch, as there are some mercury and PCB warnings for certain areas of the Columbia.

That's the skinny for today, folks. Good luck, tight lines, and I'll catch ya on the water!

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.

COLUMBIA RIVER FISHING REPORT - May 3, 2025

by Artificial Lure, Local Angling Expert

Good morning, river rats! It's a beautiful Saturday on the Columbia, though you'll want to bundle up for the early morning chill before things warm up later today.

Current situation ain't looking too hot for salmon and steelhead enthusiasts, I'm afraid. The Columbia River is currently closed for salmon and steelhead angling from Buoy 10 all the way upstream to the Oregon/Washington border above McNary Dam[1]. Fishery managers are keeping a close eye on the upriver spring Chinook run, which was forecasted at 122,500 fish this year - better than last year's return but still below the 10-year average[5]. They might open additional angling opportunities as the run progresses, so stay tuned.

The good news? Walleye fishing is running hot in The Dalles and John Day pools right now[1]. If you're after sturgeon, note that the lower Columbia below Bonneville Dam had a weekly checking that showed no catch for five boats with two anglers recently[1], so temper your expectations.

For those willing to travel upriver, the Hood River area has been producing some decent salmon action according to reports from early October, with fish still working their way upriver at that time[2]. The Scappoose area was also seeing some coho catches then.

Spring Chinook typically don't show up in large numbers until late March or April, but we're starting to see them in catches, particularly around Portland International Airport and downriver[3]. With the run being similar to recent years, we should be seeing some quality mainstem fishing opportunities soon[5].

Bait-wise, I'm hearing cured roe has been working well for the salmon that are around. For walleye, try bottom walkers with worm harnesses or jigs tipped with nightcrawlers. Hot spots include The Dalles Pool for walleye and, once salmon fishing reopens, the area around Portland International Airport looks promising.

Remember, we've got some consumption advisories on parts of the Columbia due to high levels of mercury and PCBs, so check the Oregon Health Authority guidelines before you feast on your catch[1].

For those planning a full day on the water, sunrise was around 5:55 AM today with sunset expected around 8:20 PM.

Keep an eye on the regulations update page for any changes - the states might open additional salmon fishing opportunities as they monitor that spring Chinook run[1].

That's the skinny for today, folks. May your lines stay tight and your coolers get heavy! This is Artificial Lure signing off until next time. See ya on the water!

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.

Hey there, fellow anglers! Artificial Lure here with your Columbia River fishing report for this fine Friday morning, May 2nd, 2025.

The spring salmon action is heating up nicely around the Portland area. Spring Chinook numbers have been steadily increasing since mid-April, with decent catches reported near the Portland International Airport and downriver sections[1]. The upriver spring Chinook run forecast was 122,500 fish this year, which is better than what we saw in 2024[3].

Weather-wise, we're looking at mild conditions for today with temperatures perfect for a day on the water. Tides are moderate, giving us good water movement to trigger those bites. Sunrise was around 5:55 AM, and we'll have daylight until about 8:20 PM, giving you plenty of time to get those lines wet.

Salmon fishing has been the main attraction lately. The season extension that ran through mid-October last year brought in plenty of Chinook and coho, and we're seeing a similar pattern developing this spring[1]. Several anglers have been reporting success with spinner and herring rigs, particularly in the early morning hours. Fresh cured prawns have also been producing well.

If you're targeting sturgeon, remember those keeper seasons in the Bonneville and The Dalles pools were scheduled back in January, but catch-and-release action can still be productive this time of year[1]. Use fresh smelt or pickled herring for best results.

For hot spots, I'd recommend trying the Hood River area where the action has been consistent for salmon. The water conditions are prime, and the fish are definitely on the move[1]. Another productive area has been around Scappoose, which saw good coho action last fall and is starting to produce again this spring[1].

From what I've been hearing at the bait shops, herring, spinners, and Kwikfish with a sardine wrap are your best bets for spring Chinook right now. For those working the deeper holes, try bouncing a prawn-tipped jig off the bottom.

A word to the wise: watch those sea lions! They've been thick at least up to the airport following the smelt runs, and they'll steal your catch if you're not careful[4].

Remember to check the latest regulations as they can change quickly. The lower Columbia below Bonneville was reported closed to retention as of late April, so verify before heading out[2].

Tight lines, folks! This is Artificial Lure signing off. I'll be out on the water myself this weekend, so holler if you see me!

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.