Columbia River Summer Steelhead Fishing Guide
Columbia River summer steelhead fishing is my personal favorite fish to catch. This is another fishery where you can expect to get double digit hook-ups on most trips. These highly acrobatic fish put up a great fight on light tackle making for an exciting trip with a fishing guide. Fishing for Columbia River summer steelhead takes place from late May through August. We usually launch from Westport or Beaver Boat Ramp located in Clatskanie, Oregon.
The Summer Steelhead Fishery
Columbia River summer steelhead begin their migration upstream starting in May. These highly prized fish are unique in that they will not spawn until February and March the following year. This is what makes the meat quality so good. The large amount of oils and fats in the meat is what sustains them for so long in a freshwater environment. Many of these fish are headed up to the furthest reaches of the Columbia River and its tributaries hundreds of miles from the river mouth. Depending on how far upriver they have to travel some of these fish have to pass through at least 8 hydroelectric dams! Intercepting them in prime travel lanes on their journey upstream is the most effective way to catch these fish.
How We Catch Summer Steelhead on the Columbia River
The primary technique utilized to catch these fish is anchor fishing in popular well known travel lanes. While on anchor we deploy plugs, diver and bait as well as small coon shrimp and sand shrimp plunked a foot or so off the bottom. Bobber fishing small baits is also utilized here and can produce great results in the right conditions. We target these fish out of our River Wild 22’ power boat and can accommodate up to five people.
Book a Summer Steelhead Fishing Trip with an Experienced Oregon Fishing Guide
Your charter Columbia River Summer Steelhead fishing trip will start out around first light or later in the day depending on the tides. We usually fish the outgoing tide which generally lasts 6-9 hours. The length of time the tide is running out is dependent on the main river flow and tidal exchange difference. You’ll want to bring lunch and snacks, your Oregon Fishing license and species tag, and weather appropriate clothing. Even during the summer the weather can change in an instant so be prepared to dress in layers. Most days, however, require sunglasses, sunscreen, shorts, and flip flops. You definitely want to bring a cooler with ice to transport your catch home. Hot summer days can spoil your catch rather quickly if not properly taken care of.
Summer Steelhead Fishing is Fun for the Whole Family and Groups Too!
Pleasant summer weather and our roomy 22′ power boat make Summer Steelhead fishing lots of fun for the whole family, groups, and kids of all ages. It also makes a great corporate team building activity for your employees. Many grooms find Steelhead bachelor parties a fun option to get their friends together before the big wedding day. Of course, we can’t leave the bride out, we love to take bachelorette parties out fishing too! Ladies are always good luck on the boat!!
Pro Tip: Did you know that booking a guided fishing trip several times a year can actually save you money?
It’s true! Owning a boat and investing in gear can be expensive. By booking a guided fishing trip, you can enjoy all the benefits of fishing without the high costs. Save some cash and book your trip today!
