Fall Chinook action is beginning to taper off across Southwest Washington, but anglers are finding renewed success with the B-run coho. Catch rates are strong on the Columbia River and its tributaries, and Yale Lake is producing excellent results despite low water levels. Merwin remains inaccessible due to launch closures, but razor clam digging has been outstanding along the coast. Overall, conditions are shifting, but opportunities remain strong for those targeting coho, Chinook, kokanee, and clams.
Lewis River
The Lewis River is holding steady at around 1,300 cfs. While B-run coho haven’t arrived in significant numbers yet, the A-run coho are still producing, with a few bright fish in the mix. Chinook fishing has been excellent, and wild fish are currently retainable. Early mornings continue to offer the best bite window. With rain in the forecast but low reservoir levels, don’t expect major flow changes—side drifting and hover fishing eggs remain top tactics.
Kalama River
Reports from the Kalama River are sparse this week. The weir remains in place, limiting fish movement and catch rates below Camp Kalama. Coho are just beginning to trickle in, and the upcoming rain could improve conditions. While no removal date for the weir has been announced, it’s expected soon. Anglers may want to keep an eye on this system for a potential uptick.
Drano Lake
Hover anglers at Drano Lake are seeing mixed results. Chinook are still being caught, though bright fish are becoming less common. Coho success varies day to day, but cured eggs alone seem to be working well. Bait-tipping isn’t necessary right now. Overall, anglers are still finding fish, especially those sticking to hover techniques.
Klickitat River
The Klickitat River delivered impressive results this week. Multiple reports described “epic” fishing for both Chinook and coho. Drift boat anglers found success back trolling with diver and eggs for Chinook. Coho responded well to spinners and twitching jigs. Conditions appear ideal for targeting both species.
Columbia River
Columbia River reports were limited, but those who ventured out found excellent coho fishing. Camas and Vancouver produced strong results, especially in the Camas Slough. Anglers trolling 360 flashers with spinners, cut plugs, or super baits all reported success. Wiggle warts also worked well throughout the slough. Despite fewer reports, the bite remains hot for those dialed in.
Merwin and Yale Lakes
Merwin Lake continues to struggle due to launch closures, but Yale Lake has flipped into high gear. Limits or near-limits of kokanee are common for those putting in the time. Flat-lined dodgers have outperformed downriggers this week, with most success coming 100–130 feet out. Downrigger anglers are finding fish 20–30 feet down with a 50-foot setback. Color hasn’t mattered much—everything tipped with corn is getting crushed.
Long Beach / Buoy 10 Razor Clams
The first opener of the 2025–2026 razor clam season has been outstanding. Limits have been fast and easy across all open beaches. Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Copalis, and Mocrocks are all producing well. Tidal conditions are favorable through the weekend. Clammers should take advantage of this early-season surge.
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.