The Columbia River has long been a legendary destination for anglers chasing massive salmon runs and prehistoric sturgeon. Whether you’re a seasoned local or planning your first trip to the Pacific Northwest, 2025 is shaping up to be a promising year for both salmon fishing and catch-and-release sturgeon adventures.
Here’s what you need to know before hitting the water.
Columbia River Salmon Fishing 2025: A Run to Remember?
Each year, the Columbia River welcomes multiple salmon runs, including Chinook (King) and Coho (Silver). Forecasts for 2025 suggest strong returns, especially in the spring and fall Chinook runs, making it a prime time to plan your trip.
Key Salmon Seasons to Watch in 2025:
- Spring Chinook: March through May
- Summer Chinook: June through July
- Fall Chinook & Coho: August through October
The Bonneville Dam fish counts and real-time data provided by state fish & wildlife departments will be crucial tools this year. Bookmark those sites and keep an eye out for early season closures or extensions, especially during peak migration periods.
Gear & Tactics: Dialing in Your Setup for Columbia River Salmon
For 2025, expect a mix of tactics depending on your location and target species. Below are some go-to strategies:
- Trolling herring or spinners below Bonneville Dam during the spring Chinook run.
- Anchor fishing with Kwikfish in the deeper channels during cooler water temps.
- Backtrolling eggs or shrimp in tributary mouths where salmon stage before heading upriver.
Having quality gear dialed in is key. Strong currents, big fish, and rocky bottoms mean braided mainline, fluorocarbon leaders, and durable terminal tackle are musts.
Columbia River Sturgeon Fishing: Catch-and-Release Giants
Sturgeon fishing on the Columbia remains one of the most exciting freshwater challenges in the U.S. These prehistoric giants can stretch over 10 feet long and put up a fight that’s unforgettable. While retention is limited and tightly regulated, catch-and-release sturgeon fishing in 2025 is expected to remain open across many stretches of the river.
Best Time to Target Sturgeon in 2025:
- Late spring to early fall (May–September) when water temps rise and the fish are active.
Top Tips for Catching Columbia River Sturgeon:
- Focus on deep holes and current breaks near Bonneville, The Dalles, and John Day pools.
- Use fresh bait like smelt, squid, or sand shrimp.
- Heavier tackle (80-100 lb braid) with circle hooks to protect the fish during release.
Sturgeon are a catch-and-release species in many areas, so proper handling is critical. Keep the fish in the water whenever possible and avoid dragging them onto rocks or boat decks.
What’s New in 2025 for Columbia River Anglers?
Increased attention is being given to conservation, river flows, and fish passage improvements. These ongoing efforts continue to support sustainable fishing on the Columbia, but they can also affect season timing and access points. Stay connected with ODFW and WDFW for regulation updates.
Final Thoughts: Plan, Prepare, Respect the River
Fishing the Columbia River in 2025 offers some of the best opportunities in the West, whether you’re chasing chrome-bright springers or battling monster sturgeon. But as always, respect the resource, follow local regulations, and practice ethical catch-and-release.
And remember—it’s not just about the fish. It’s about the stories, the sunrises, and the memories made on the river.
