This week’s fishing activity across SW Washington has been a mixed bag. The Columbia River remains closed for Chinook but has reopened for hatchery coho, offering a glimmer of opportunity. Tributary fishing has slowed, though fish are still present in good numbers. Drano Lake continues to be a standout, producing consistent catches. Meanwhile, Yale Lake is outperforming Merwin, and the first round of razor clamming has been approved, adding a coastal option for anglers.
Lewis River
Flows on the Lewis remain steady at 1,400 cfs, unchanged from last week despite recent rainfall. Anglers reported seeing plenty of coho and Chinook in the river, but getting them to bite has been a challenge. Only one dark Chinook was caught and released during a full day of fishing. The low reservoir levels may prevent any bump in flows, even with more rain. Side drifting or hovering eggs remains the best bet until the bite picks back up.
Kalama River
The Kalama continues to fish slow, largely due to the weir still being in place. Anglers below the weir are reporting minimal action. Most have not seen or caught any fish this week. With no signs of improvement, expectations remain low for the coming days.
Washougal River
The Washougal has been productive this season but is beginning to slow. Fewer fresh fish are entering the system, though the lower river remains active. Anglers using twitching jigs found success, while eggs and spinners were less effective. The upper stretch was quiet, but the lower river is still stacked with Chinook and starting to see coho. Cooler weather and recent rain should make bobber-and-egg setups a solid choice heading into the weekend.
Cowlitz River
Anglers on the Cowlitz are still waiting for coho to arrive in stronger numbers. A few are being caught, but the action is far from consistent. Spinners are working best right now. As more fish push through in the coming weeks, twitching jigs and eggs should become more effective. River flows below Mayfield Dam are currently at 2,410 cfs.
Drano Lake
Drano Lake remains red hot, with anglers consistently landing Chinook. Both trolling and hover fishing are producing, though trollers using Pro Trolls and spinners have had an edge. Cut plugs and tuna-stuffed super baits are also performing well, especially in the early morning. Once the sun hits the water, spinners tend to take over. Hover anglers are seeing mixed results, with scent additives and salted eggs making a noticeable difference.
Merwin & Yale Lakes
Yale Lake continues to outshine Merwin this week. Low water levels and better catch rates have drawn more anglers to Yale. While limits are still possible, most fish are smaller one-year-olds. Downriggers are most effective, with the bite zone between 45 and 55 feet. Pink and green presentations paired with silver or moon jelly dodgers are producing best.
Long Beach Razor Clamming
WDFW has approved the first seven days of razor clamming for the fall season. Digging opportunities span Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Mocrocks, and Copalis, with tides ranging from -0.2 to -1.5 feet. The season kicks off October 6 and runs through October 12. This marks a welcome return for coastal diggers eager to get back on the sand.
There is A LOT more for SW Washington Members here, and SW Washington members can find our complete Columbia River reports here.
I caught two steelhead above the weir on the kalama this past 2 weeks
Thanks for sharing!