Top-Rated Columbia River Fishing | Ken's Adventures

Reel in the Big One: Columbia River Fishing

Ready to chase some serious salmon on the mighty Columbia? This full-day trip with Ken's Fishing Adventures puts you right where the action is. We're talking prime fishing grounds in the Portland Metro area, where trophy-sized Chinook and feisty Coho are waiting to test your skills. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting your feet wet, our expert guides will have you dialed in on the hotspots and using the right techniques to land that fish of a lifetime.

What to Expect on the Water

We'll kick things off bright and early at 6:30 AM, because that's when the fish are biting and the river's calling our name. You and up to three buddies will hop aboard our fully-rigged fishing boat for a solid 8 hours of non-stop action. Don't sweat the gear - we've got top-notch rods, reels, and tackle all ready to go. Our guides know these waters like the back of their hand, so we'll be hitting all the prime holes where the big ones like to hang out. Expect to try your hand at different techniques throughout the day, from trolling to plunking, depending on what's working best.

Insider Tips for Landing the Big One

Out here on the Columbia, it's all about reading the water and knowing where those fish are holding. We'll be using a mix of tactics, from back-bouncing roe to running plugs, to entice those wily salmon and steelhead. Keep an eye on your rod tip - when it starts bouncing, it's game on! Our guides will show you the ropes on proper hooksets and how to play these powerful fish. And here's a pro tip: when that Chinook decides to make a run, let it go. These bruisers can easily snap your line if you try to muscle them in too quick.

Top Catches This Season

The Columbia's been on fire lately, with anglers pulling in some real beauties. We're seeing Chinook in the 20-30 pound range, with some lucky folks even breaking the 40-pound mark. Coho have been running a bit smaller but feistier than ever, putting up epic fights on lighter tackle. And don't even get me started on the steelhead - these sea-run rainbows are the stuff of legend, known for their acrobatic jumps and blistering runs.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Chinook Salmon: These are the kings of the Columbia, and for good reason. Chinook can grow to monster sizes, with some topping 50 pounds. They're known for their rich, flavorful meat and powerful fights. Spring and fall are prime times to target these beasts, as they make their way upriver to spawn. When you hook into a big Chinook, hang on tight - these fish will put your arms and your gear to the test.

Coho Salmon: Also called silvers, these salmon might be a bit smaller than Chinooks, but what they lack in size they make up for in attitude. Coho are known for their acrobatic leaps and lightning-fast runs. They typically show up in good numbers from late summer through fall. Pound for pound, many anglers consider Coho the hardest fighting salmon out there. Plus, their bright orange flesh makes for some killer table fare.

Steelhead Trout: The Columbia's steelhead are the stuff of angling legend. These sea-run rainbow trout are prized for their fierce fights and their delicious meat. We target them year-round, but winter and summer runs offer the best action. Steelhead are notorious for their long, screaming runs and their ability to throw hooks with spectacular jumps. Landing one of these chrome-bright beauties is a true badge of honor for any angler.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

There's something special about fishing the Columbia that keeps folks coming back year after year. Maybe it's the rush of battling a monster Chinook in the shadow of the Cascade Mountains. Or the camaraderie of swapping fish stories with your buddies as we cruise to the next hotspot. Whatever it is, one thing's for sure - once you've experienced the world-class fishing these waters have to offer, you'll be hooked for life.

Time to Book Your Spot

Look, I could go on all day about the epic fishing we've got here on the Columbia, but the only way to really understand is to experience it yourself. For just $250 a head, you can get in on some of the best salmon and steelhead action in the Pacific Northwest. We've got all the gear you need, the knowledge to put you on fish, and a passion for making sure you have a day on the water you'll never forget. So what are you waiting for? Give Ken's Fishing Adventures a call and let's get your next big fish story started. Trust me, the only thing you'll regret is not booking sooner. Tight lines!