Sturgeon fishing on the lower Columbia River
OPTION ONE: The Columbia River estuary produces some of the best sturgeon fishing and catches of quality white sturgeon for anglers to enjoy. Often caught in the shallows of the estuary, these fish provide an excellent fight for anglers of all ages. Catch and keep sturgeon fishing is a thing of the past, at least below Bonneville Dam. Catch and release fishing is world-class, however, making for an incredible day of fishing in the lower Columbia River.
OPTION TWO: Experience world-class sturgeon fishing in the majestic Columbia River estuary! This incredible waterway is renowned for its thriving white sturgeon population, offering anglers the chance to hook into some truly impressive fish. Imagine the thrill of battling these powerful giants in the estuary’s shallows – a memorable experience for anglers of all ages and skill levels. While catch-and-keep fishing is no longer permitted below Bonneville Dam, the world-class catch-and-release fishery provides an unparalleled opportunity to connect with these magnificent creatures. Create lasting memories and enjoy an unforgettable day on the lower Columbia River!
Where to fish for Sturgeon on the lower Columbia River
There are scores of locations that are productive for sturgeon in the Columbia River estuary. There is no real pattern for sturgeon activity in this section, but here we will outline some of the most popular areas to target sturgeon below and above the Astoria/Megler Bridge.
Easiest to reach from Hammond Boat Basin
Estuary sturgeon fishing in the Columbia River is the entire lower river downstream of Tongue Point on the Oregon side. This section of the river is by far the most productive section of the river, accounting for three-quarters of the total lower Columbia River catch below Bonneville Dam.
Trestle Bay (are these a subset of the easiest to reach…?)
This shallow water bay is located just downstream of Hammond on the Oregon side.
Desdemona Dolphin
This is the single piling structure located north of the Hammond entrance. It marks a sandbar at the west end of Desdemona Sands.
Desdemona Light
Another dolphin is about three-quarters of a mile downstream. It is the light that marks the bottom end of Desdemona Sands.
Seal Island
Along Desdemona Sands across from Point Adams Packing Plant is a seal haul-out. It is only exposed on an outgoing tide.
Desdemona Sands
Desdemona Sands is a large sandbar that runs from above the Astoria/Megler Bridge downstream below Hammond.
Easiest to reach from Warrenton Boat Basin
Below Astoria/Megler Bridge, WA side of the shipping channel
Below A/M Bridge, Oregon Shoreline “Port Docks”
Mouth of Youngs Bay “Stink Hole” – It really does not stink here but this spot has maintained its name for a long time.
Downtown Astoria
This is deep water and close to the shipping channel.
Taylor Sands
This big sand bar is located north of the East End Mooring Basin.
Below Bridge
Oregon side of the Washington channel – To get to this spot, you must either cross Desdemona Sands near high tide or go around the sands from below Hammond or upstream of the bridge.
Blind Channel
This is the channel on the Washington side.
Incorporate our Columbia River fishing reports with the recorded online webinar below to make your fishing trip as productive as possible.
How to fish for sturgeon on the Columbia River
Sturgeon are primarily bottom feeders, and they have a diverse diet that includes fish, crustaceans, and other aquatic organisms. Some common baits used for sturgeon fishing include squid, herring, salmon eggs (roe), sand shrimp, and nightcrawlers. It’s a promising idea to use scent to attract them, as sturgeon have a keen sense of smell.
You’ll need to keep the bait on the bottom, so use enough weight to accomplish this. With the river moving, you will have to adjust accordingly.
In the lower part of the Columbia River, smaller fish in the 24″ – 36″ range were more common. These days, fish under 40″ are rare, and fish up to 6 feet are quite common. Using lighter gear makes catching them a lot more fun, but you also don’t want to stress the fish (or you) out by engaging in a long fight. If you are hunting the big ones, be sure your gear is heavy enough to manage things safely.
Sturgeon are known to have a delicate mouth, so it’s important to use the right rigging. One popular rig for sturgeon fishing is a sliding sinker rig. Attach a heavy sinker on the mainline, followed by a swivel to prevent the sinker from sliding down to the bait. Tie a leader (usually 3 to 5 feet long) to the other end of the swivel, and then add a strong, sharp hook at the end.
Remember that sturgeon fishing is always highly regulated, and seasons and size limits can vary depending on the location. Be sure to check local fishing regulations and guidelines to ensure you’re fishing responsibly and sustainably.
The technical report below goes into a great amount of detail on lower Columbia River sturgeon fishing. If you want more information on the topic, detailed maps, and an understanding of how to actually hook and bring a sturgeon to your boat, this is a must-have.
When to go fishing on the Columbia River
The big question is when? Start with the regulations. Fishing regulations are modified with some regularity as current information is gathered throughout the season. So, pay attention! The Guide’s Forecast provides updates as they become available, but even then, they can be updated between the time they are updated and the time you read them.
The Oregon Fish & Wildlife fishing section has the basics. As of today, you can find regulation updates on the Oregon Fish & Wildlife site here.
Keep up to date on the seasons and when to head out by reading our Columbia River fishing reports regularly. Subscribe to our weekly fishing reports here. Or get the deep reporting our members get, including our Columbia River fishing reports and FORECAST, by becoming a member. Our Oregon and SW Washington members get access to our complete reports and forecasts for the Columbia River.
Columbia River guided fishing trips
For those who are new to the area or want some expert guidance, numerous fishing guides and charter services operate along the Columbia River. These guides can offer insights into the best fishing spots and techniques. The Guide’s Forecast’s own Bob Rees and many of the reporting sources are professional fishing guides. You can find out more about Bob here. Book a trip or find another guide by filling out the contact form at the bottom of this page.
What can I fish for on the Columbia River?
The Columbia River is known for offering diverse and exciting sport fishing opportunities. The river stretches over 1,200 miles and flows through multiple U.S. states and Canadian provinces, providing ample space for a variety of fishing experiences. In addition to the salmon and sturgeon fishing we have already discussed, here are some of the key highlights of sport fishing on the Columbia River.
Walleye Fishing: The Columbia River offers excellent opportunities for catching walleye. This species is a favorite among anglers for its delicious flesh and challenging fight.
Bass Fishing: Smallmouth and largemouth bass can be found in various sections of the river. Bass fishing is particularly popular in the lower reaches of the Columbia River.
Trout and Steelhead Fishing: Aside from the anadromous steelhead that migrate to the ocean and return to spawn in the river, there are also resident trout populations that can be targeted by anglers in certain areas.
What is the forecast for the Columbia River salmon and steelhead?
Here are some resources for sturgeon fishing and Columbia River fishing forecasts.
- Columbia River reports, forecasts, returns, and fishery plans
- States set 2025 Columbia River summer/fall salmon and steelhead seasons
- Columbia River Adult Salmon & Steelhead Returns: Actual and Forecasted
Visit The Guide’s Forecast website to access a wealth of resources, including webinars, technical reports, and weekly fishing reports. Start by signing up for our free fishing report to stay updated on the latest fishing information and improve your chances of success. Visit this link to sign up.