Astoria is one of my favorite places to guide salmon fishing trips. Every summer, Chinook and coho salmon enter the Columbia River from the Pacific Ocean. I fish the lower river around Astoria, Hammond, Warrenton, and Buoy 10, following the fish as tides and conditions change.

I’m Marvin Henkel, owner of Marvin’s Guide Service and your Astoria salmon fishing guide. To ask about an Astoria salmon trip, call or text me at 503-314-5087, or send me a trip inquiry.

Astoria Buoy 10 Salmon Season

The Buoy 10 fishery is near the mouth of the Columbia River. August is usually the main month for Chinook fishing, while coho fishing often gets especially exciting in late August and September. When ocean salmon seasons are open and conditions are safe, I may also fish in the Pacific Ocean west of Astoria.

Seasons and retention rules can change during the year. As your Astoria salmon fishing guide, I plan each trip around the fishing conditions and regulations in effect on that day. You can follow what I am seeing on the water in my Buoy 10 fishing report.

What Is Salmon Fishing Near Astoria Like?

The lower Columbia River is a large fishery, and salmon move with the tides. On some days I find the best fishing near Hammond or Buoy 10. On others, I may fish closer to the Astoria-Megler Bridge or farther upriver. I watch the current, wind, bait, and fish activity before deciding where to begin.

Chinook are known for their size and powerful runs. Coho often strike aggressively and can provide fast action when schools move through the estuary. Every trip is different.

How I Fish Buoy 10 for Salmon

Trolling is one of the main ways I target salmon near Astoria and Buoy 10. Depending on the tide and what the fish are responding to, I may use herring, Brad’s Super Bait, or SpinFish behind flashers. I adjust the depth, trolling speed, direction, and presentation throughout the day.

For a closer look at my equipment and methods, read my article on how to fish Buoy 10 for salmon.

Where We Meet for an Astoria Salmon Trip

During the Buoy 10 season, I commonly keep my boat at Hammond Marina, a short drive from Astoria. Sometimes I use another lower Columbia River launch because of the fishing, weather, tides, or ramp conditions. I will confirm the exact meeting place and departure time before your trip.

You do not need to bring a boat, rods, reels, bait, or tackle. Visit my fishing trip meeting locations page for more information.

Salmon and Dungeness Crab Trips

Later in the season, it may be possible to combine salmon fishing with Dungeness crabbing. Whether we can do both depends on the tides, weather, fishing, and regulations that day. If catching crab is a priority, ask me about my Astoria and Oregon Coast crabbing trips.

Check the Current Salmon Regulations

Buoy 10 salmon rules can change during the season. Chinook retention, coho limits, and other requirements depend on the date and fishing area. Before fishing, check the latest Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife regulation updates. You can also ask me about the rules for your guided trip.

Things to Do Around Astoria

After fishing, you can visit the Astoria Column, explore the riverfront, or spend time in nearby Hammond and Warrenton. I have put together lists of things to do around Astoria and restaurants I enjoy in the area.

Book Your Astoria Salmon Fishing Guide Trip at Buoy 10

I guide salmon anglers aboard my 27-foot covered and heated boat. Beginners are welcome, and I provide the fishing gear and instruction.

Call or text Marvin at 503-314-5087, or send a trip inquiry to check available dates. For more details about the trips and what to bring, visit my main Buoy 10 salmon fishing guide page.