Fishing across SW Washington is heating up in several key areas, with Buoy 10 leading the charge as anglers report consistent limits. Steelhead action remains strong throughout the Columbia River system, while tributary steelhead is beginning to taper off. Chinook are starting to show in multiple rivers, and lake fishing continues to produce kokanee despite the summer heat. Below is a breakdown of conditions and highlights by location.
Lewis River
The Lewis has held steady this week at 1,300 cfs, just above its yearly low, so caution is advised. Chinook numbers are climbing, especially near Cedar Creek, with anglers reporting solid catches. Steelhead remains hit or miss, with early mornings and deeper holes producing best. Hover fishing with eggs and shrimp continues to be the top technique.
Kalama River
Effort was minimal on the Kalama this week, with few anglers spotted and little action reported. A handful of Chinook were seen rolling near Camp Kalama, but catches were scarce. Rain in the forecast should push more fish into the system, especially on incoming tides. Bobber and eggs are the go-to, though spinners and twitching jigs also perform well.
Washougal River
Reports from the Washougal were sparse this week, with only a few locals chasing summer steelhead. No confirmed catches were noted, and Chinook have yet to arrive in numbers. Crowds at the river mouth remain light, suggesting the run is still pending. Conditions may improve with the upcoming weather changes.
Cowlitz River
Tacoma Power reported strong returns this week, including hundreds of Chinook and steelhead across multiple release sites. Blue Creek is producing well for both bank and boat anglers using bobber dogging and back trolling techniques. Massey Bar plunkers saw mixed success, while lower river anglers struggled to find fish. Flows remain steady below Mayfield Dam at 2,380 cfs.
Drano Lake
Drano Lake is producing Chinook and steelhead, with limits not uncommon. Trollers are finding success with coon shrimp spinners and 360 flashers, while bobber anglers are hooking Chinook with eggs and shrimp. Steelhead are responding well to single coon shrimp presentations. Pressure is moderate, and action is steady.
Columbia River
Buoy 10 is in full swing, though Chinook limits remain elusive in many areas. Steelhead fishing is excellent throughout the system, with standout action near the Lewis River mouth and Bonneville Dam. Ridgefield anglers are battling weeds, while Vancouver’s Glass Beach is producing steelhead on triple spin glow setups. Bonneville saw the season’s first coho this week, signaling a shift in species.
Merwin & Yale Lakes
Kokanee fishing continues to be productive at both lakes, though anglers are working hard for limits. Fish are holding deep—60 to 70 feet—and responding best to downriggers. Orange and pink gear tipped with tuna-soaked corn is the top producer. Early morning boat traffic is heavy due to the heat, so plan accordingly.
Long Beach / Buoy 10
Buoy 10 continues to improve, especially near Church Hole on the Washington side. Chinook are being found in warmer water near the bridge, with cut plugs and hooded anchovies performing best. Rain is expected to slow the bite soon, so anglers should take advantage while conditions hold. Pressure is high, and success varies by tide and location.