Portland Oregon Salmon Fishing Guide

As an Oregon fishing guide licensed since 2000, I offer guided and charter salmon fishing trips near Portland, Oregon, targeting the Columbia River, Willamette River, Buoy 10 near Astoria, and select Oregon Coast fisheries. Whether you’re chasing spring Chinook, fall Chinook kings, or Coho silvers, my goal is simple — put you on fish and give you an unforgettable day on the water.

Guided Salmon Fishing Near Portland, Oregon

Portland sits at the heart of some of the best salmon fishing in the Pacific Northwest. The Columbia River flows directly through the Portland metro area, while the Willamette River provides excellent spring Chinook opportunities right in the city.

I guide anglers of all experience levels, from first timers to seasoned fishermen, customizing every trip to match conditions and salmon runs.

My Fishing Charter Boat

I run a 27-foot Alumaweld Intruder, custom-built for salmon fishing on the Columbia and coastal waters. The boat is fully equipped with top-of-the-line electronics, safety gear, and a comfortable layout for up to six guests.

Contact me with your preferred date and group size to confirm availability and trip arrangements.
👉 Learn more about my fishing charter boat

Spring Salmon Fishing – Columbia & Willamette Rivers

Spring Chinook salmon begin entering the Columbia River in late winter, with peak fishing typically from mid-February through May.

During spring, I guide trips:

On the Columbia River between Portland and Vancouver
On the Willamette River, known for world-class spring Chinook runs

Spring salmon generally range from 10–25 pounds and are prized for their quality and fight.

👉 Book a Portland spring salmon fishing guide today

Fall Salmon Fishing – Columbia River & Buoy 10 (Astoria)

The Columbia River fall salmon run is one of the largest in the country, with over one million salmon returning annually. Beginning in July, Chinook and Coho stage off the coast before entering the river.

Buoy 10 Salmon Fishing Near Astoria

In August, much of the salmon fishing action shifts to Buoy 10 near Astoria, Oregon, at the mouth of the Columbia River. This is one of the most famous salmon fisheries in the Northwest.

At Buoy 10, anglers regularly catch:

Large fall Chinook kings
Abundant Coho salmon

Many of these fish are significantly larger than spring salmon, with kings often exceeding 30 pounds.

👉 August Buoy 10 dates fill fast — book early

Late-Season & Upriver Columbia River Salmon

As the estuary season winds down after Labor Day, fishing shifts upriver toward Portland and the Columbia River Gorge. During this time, we switch to proven freshwater techniques to target aggressive fall Chinook pushing upriver.

Explore Columbia Gorge Fishing Locations

Planning a trip upriver? Visit my Columbia Gorge fishing guide page for an overview, or explore Cascade Locks, Hood River, The Dalles, and Rufus. These location pages cover the seasonal trips I offer in each area. Contact me to confirm the best fishing area for your dates and target species.

Oregon Coast Salmon Fishing – Tillamook Bay

In late fall, I also offer Oregon Coast salmon fishing charters, focusing on Tillamook Bay. October is prime time, with Chinook commonly weighing 25 pounds, and some reaching 50 pounds.

Optional Crabbing on the lower Columbia River

For an additional fee, clients can set crab pots during salmon trips or book full crabbing trips in November and December, making for an incredible seafood experience.