Looking for a Rufus, Oregon fishing guide? I’m Marvin Henkel, owner of Marvin’s Guide Service, and I offer guided walleye fishing trips on the Columbia River near Rufus and the John Day Dam area. Whether you’re learning to fish for walleye or planning another trip to the Columbia River Gorge, I’d be happy to help you get out on the water.
Rufus sits along Interstate 84 roughly two hours east of Portland, just downstream from John Day Dam. It’s a convenient destination for anglers coming from Portland or staying in the Gorge. My focus here is helping you plan a guided walleye trip that fits your dates and the river conditions.
Ready to plan your trip? Call 503-314-5087 or request a Rufus walleye fishing trip.
Rufus, Oregon Walleye Fishing Guide
Walleye are a big reason anglers come to this stretch of the Columbia River. The Dalles and John Day pools are established Oregon walleye fisheries, and Rufus puts you close to the John Day Dam area.
On my walleye trips around Rufus, I’ve used bottom walkers and worm harnesses to cover water and locate fish. Current, depth and wind affect how we can fish each day. Having a guide familiar with the area helps you spend your time fishing rather than figuring out an unfamiliar stretch of river.
Walleye are also one of my favorite eating fish. In my opinion, Columbia River walleye make some of the best fish tacos around! I also like releasing the bigger fish to help keep this fishery strong.
Columbia River Walleye Fishing Near Rufus
Rufus is part of the larger Columbia River walleye fishery. If you’re comparing locations or looking for more information about guided trips, visit my Columbia River walleye fishing guide page. This Rufus page focuses on planning a trip near town and the John Day Dam area.
Nearby The Dalles, Oregon offers another starting point for a Gorge fishing trip. You can also explore my Columbia Gorge fishing guide page for more about the areas and species I fish.
Planning Your Guided Walleye Trip
When you contact me, let me know your preferred dates, how many people are coming and whether you’re staying near Rufus or driving from Portland. We can discuss trip availability, the fishing location and where to meet before you make travel arrangements.
The Columbia River Gorge can get windy. On past Rufus walleye trips, I’ve had to cancel days because of wind, so conditions are an important part of planning your day on the river. Contact me to discuss your dates rather than assuming every day will be fishable.
For general launch and meeting information, visit where we meet for fishing trips. I’ll confirm the meeting location for your specific trip.
Fish With Marvin’s Guide Service
I’m a full-time fishing guide with more than 27 years of experience. I guided 240 trips last year, and I enjoy helping both new anglers and returning clients spend a day fishing Oregon’s waters.
The John Day River also has a personal connection for me: I grew up fishing there. Spending time in this part of Oregon brings back great memories, and I enjoy introducing clients to fishing in the Columbia River Gorge.
Learn more about Marvin Henkel and Marvin’s Guide Service.
Other Fishing Opportunities Around Rufus
Walleye are the main focus of this page, but anglers also come to the Columbia River for salmon, steelhead, sturgeon and bass. Opportunities depend on the location, season and current regulations. If you’re interested in another species, call me and we can discuss the trips available for your dates.
You can learn more on my salmon fishing, sturgeon fishing and bass fishing pages.
Fishing Regulations Near Rufus and John Day Dam
Before fishing, check the current ODFW Columbia River fishing report and regulation updates. Rules can vary by species and river section, and areas near dams have additional restrictions. Check the rules for the exact water you plan to fish rather than assuming a season or access area is always open.
Walleye Fishing Photos From Near Rufus
A father and son proudly holding a walleye caught on the Columbia River near Rufus, Oregon.
A client with walleye caught while fishing with Marvin’s Guide Service on the Columbia River near Rufus, Oregon.
Book Your Rufus, Oregon Fishing Trip
If you’re looking for a Rufus, Oregon walleye fishing guide, I’d be happy to talk with you about a day on the Columbia River. Call 503-314-5087 or send a trip inquiry to discuss dates and availability.
