About Your Trip
Everything you’ll need to go fishing is provided—from rods, reels, and tackle to bait, rain gear (upon request), and even fish cleaning and packaging at the end of the day. Whether you're new to fishing or a seasoned pro, Captain Elmer has you covered. The species you can target are as legendary as the waters they swim in: Columbia River Spring Chinook Salmon, hard-fighting keeper Sturgeon, Trophy Walleye, and massive Oversize Sturgeon. During the warmer
months, summer Walleye offer fast-paced action, and when fall rolls in, don’t miss your chance to chase trophy Fall Chinook Salmon in the lower Columbia River or up at Hanford Reach—one of the most iconic salmon fisheries in the Northwest.
Trips run on a custom 24-foot vessel designed for safety, comfort, and performance. With over 25 years of guiding experience, Captain Elmer brings deep knowledge and year-round dedication to every outing. All trips are fully licensed, insured, and Coast Guard approved. He’ll adjust each trip to the time of year, water conditions, and what you’re looking to catch—whether it’s a meat haul, a shot at a personal best, or just a fun, relaxing day on the river.
You’ll be fishing some of the most productive and scenic water in Oregon and Washington. From the Columbia and Snake Rivers to the John Day, Deschutes, Klickitat, and beyond, each stretch of river offers a new adventure—and new chances to hook into something worth bragging about. Launch locations are flexible and depend on what’s fishing best, with common areas including Astoria, Bonneville, The Dalles, Vernita Bridge, and the Hanford Reach.
Here’s what you can expect throughout the year:
Fishing Calendar
January – Keeper Sturgeon, Steelhead
February – Keeper Sturgeon, Steelhead
March – Keeper Sturgeon, Spring Chinook Salmon, Trophy Walleye
April – Keeper Sturgeon, Spring Chinook Salmon, Trophy Walleye
May – Keeper Sturgeon, Spring Chinook Salmon, Trophy Walleye, Shad
June – Keeper Sturgeon, Walleye, Shad, Oversize Sturgeon
July – Keeper Sturgeon, Walleye, Shad, Oversize Sturgeon, Steelhead
August – Oversize Sturgeon, Walleye, Summer Steelhead, Fall Salmon
September – Fall Chinook Salmon, Sturgeon, Walleye, Coho (Silvers)
October – Fall Chinook Salmon, Sturgeon
November – Coho (Silvers), Winter B-Run Snake River Steelhead
December – Winter B-Run Snake River Steelhead
Each species brings a different kind of thrill—Spring Chinook test your patience and technique, Walleye deliver heavy hits and big rewards, and Sturgeon, especially the oversize ones, give you a battle that’ll leave your arms burning and your adrenaline pumping. Even in the off-season, there’s always something biting in these rich waters.
To prepare, bring along your fishing license and harvest card, snacks and drinks, layers for the weather, polarized sunglasses, sunscreen, and a cooler to bring home your cleaned catch. Captain Elmer provides the rest.
Book early—especially during peak seasons—to lock in your preferred dates. Whether you're chasing a bucket-list fish or just looking for a great time on the water with an experienced guide, this Columbia River fishing trip is the real deal.
Amenities
Skill Levels
Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced
Tackle
All rods, reels, and tackle are included.
Beer
Feel free to enjoy responsibly, but please no glass.
Location
This guide can be flexible with the departure location.
Weather
You won’t lose your deposit if the trip is canceled due to weather
Kid Friendly
This trip can cater to small children.
Flexible Cancelation
This trip can be canceled up to 14 days before the trip.
Fish Cleaning
No cleaning service provided.
Boat Restroom
No, this boat does not have a bathroom on board.
Live Bait
Live bait is not used on this trip.
Disability Friendly
This trip is not suited for those with disabilities.
Lunch
Please provide your own food / snacks.
