Oregon and Washington fisheries managers have now twice extended the 2024 Columbia River spring chinook fishing season. It currently will run through Thursday, April 11.
The Columbia River Compact will keep track on the catch rates and run size and could make additional changes.
It’s fairly common for in-season changes as the fish actually return during the spring. At times, fish managers have reopened the fishery on the lower river (below Bonneville Dam), depending on the results of run size updates starting in May.
For now, I’ll be booking springer trips for the prime fishing days of March and early April on the Columbia River.
We also have the option of fishing the Willamette River, even after the Columbia closes. Fisheries managers are forecasting a fairly typical run on the Willamette.
By the way, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife will allow anglers to use a two-rod endorsement on the Willamette River below Willamette Falls starting March 1. You can fish two rods for springers and most other fish, except not sturgeon. (The two-rod rule also will apply to the upper river starting May 1, according to ODFW.)
I offer spring salmon fishing trips on the Willamette River through June. Book your 2024 spring chinook fishing trip by clicking here. Or feel free to call or text me at 503-314-5087 and we can work together to set up the best possible experience for you and your group.
Columbia River chinook salmon
Last Updated on by Marv
