Fishing across Southwest Washington is showing strong signs of seasonal transition. Coho are still active in tributaries and parts of the Columbia, while Chinook have mostly moved on. Recent rains have helped rivers recover, bringing many into prime shape for the weekend. Merwin is fishable again, though results are mixed, and Yale continues to produce small kokanee. WDFW has also approved clam digs for the first week of November, adding more opportunity for anglers.
Lewis River
Flows on the Lewis have held steady around 2,600 cfs this week. The B-run coho have finally arrived in strong numbers, with anglers reporting mixed success. Some nearly limited out, while others found only a few fish. Coho are bright and aggressive, and most techniques are working. Chinook fishing has slowed considerably, with few fresh fish and most turning dark.
Kalama River
The Kalama is coming into excellent shape this week with great color and flow. Rain is on the way, but current conditions are stable. Anglers have had some success at Beginners Hole, especially before work hours. Spinners, twitching jigs, and bobber fishing eggs are all productive as water temperatures drop. The coho run should peak soon, though low numbers could signal a weak year.
Washougal River
Flows are up but recovering quickly, and the river is in great shape. Coho are present from the mouth to the deadline, with several readers spotting fish on the move. Afternoon outings after hunting yielded sightings but few bites. The saturated ground from last weekend’s rain means incoming precipitation won’t cause a blowout. Focus on traveling lanes and use spinners or wiggle warts as fish push upstream.
Cowlitz River
The Cowlitz continues to improve daily, with fresh coho arriving steadily. Rain this weekend shouldn’t impact flows much due to dam control. Anglers are seeing a mix of bright and slightly colored fish, with steady morning bites. Spinners, wiggle warts, twitching jigs, and eggs are all working well. Bank anglers are finding consistent action near the barrier dam, while boat anglers are spread throughout the river.
Drano Lake
No creel reports this week, but fish are still being caught. Many are being released, likely due to dark coloration or being hooked outside Drano. Coho will continue migrating through for the next few weeks. Catchable numbers remain, though effort appears light. Expect sporadic success depending on timing and location.
Columbia River
Fishing on the Columbia has been limited this week. A few reports came from Camas Slough, the mouth of the Sandy, and the mouth of the Lewis. Trolling is the dominant method, with 360s, spinners, and superbaits being the go-to setups. No single hotspot emerged, but persistent anglers found a fish or two. Conditions remain challenging but not impossible.
Merwin and Yale Lakes
Lake levels at Merwin have risen enough to allow boat launches again. Angler turnout was low, with one trusted source reporting near limits of kokanee both days. Yale is producing similarly, with limits for one angler but not two. Flat-lined dodgers are the top producers, though downriggers are also effective. No standout color—just tip your gear with corn or Gulp! Maggots for best results.
Long Beach / Buoy 10
WDFW has approved a full week of razor clam digging starting November 3. Digs will occur across Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Mocrocks, and Copalis depending on the day. Tides range from -0.1 to -2.0 feet, offering excellent conditions. Evening times vary, so plan accordingly. This is a great chance to add some shellfish to your catch list.
Stay fishy,
Seth Kolshinski
There is A LOT more for SW Washington Members here, and SW Washington members can find our complete Columbia River reports here.