Best Bonneville Dam Salmon Fishing Adventure

Published Date: September 9, 2025
Fishing

Columbia River
Updated Date: November 16, 2025

Summary

The Columbia River is home to some of the best salmon fishing in the Pacific Northwest. Our guided trips focus on targeting both Coho and Chinook salmon as they make their way upstream. You'll be joining an experienced guide from DG Columbia Adventures who knows the river's hotspots and seasonal patterns. We'll use tried-and-true techniques like trolling with downriggers or casting from the boat, adjusting our approach based on river conditions and fish behavior. The Columbia's scenery is pretty spectacular too – you might spot bald eagles or ospreys hunting along the banks. This trip is perfect for anglers of all skill levels, from first-timers to seasoned pros. We provide all the gear you need, so just bring your enthusiasm and maybe a camera to capture your catch. It's a great way to spend a day on the water, whether you're hoping to land a trophy Chinook or just enjoy some time outdoors.

Best Bonneville Dam Salmon Fishing Adventure

Salmon on the Line

Two anglers fishing in Oregon, enjoying a great catch

Two people fishing for Chinook Salmon in Milwaukie

Fishing in the beautiful state of Oregon

6 fish caught by 3 people during a fishing tour in Milwaukie

Epic Columbia River Salmon Run Adventure

Ready to chase some of the Northwest's most prized fish? Our Columbia River salmon fishing trip puts you right in the action as Chinook and Coho make their annual journey upriver. Whether you're a seasoned angler or it's your first time wetting a line, you'll have a blast battling these hard-fighting fish in one of America's most iconic waterways. Let's get you hooked up!

What's the Deal?

Picture this: You're on the mighty Columbia at dawn, sipping hot coffee as the mist lifts off the water. Your guide's dialing in the perfect trolling spread, and suddenly – BAM! A chrome-bright Chinook slams your bait and the fight is on. That's what we're talking about. This trip is all about putting you on fish, plain and simple. We'll target both Chinook (aka King) and Coho (Silver) salmon using tried-and-true local techniques. It's just you and the guide, so expect plenty of personal attention and a chance to really hone your skills. Fair warning though – once you've tasted fresh-caught Columbia River salmon, you might be spoiled for life.

How We Roll on the River

We'll be trolling from a comfortable, fully-equipped boat designed for these waters. Think downriggers, fish finders, and all the gear you need to land the big one. We use a mix of cut-plug herring, spinners, and sometimes even good old-fashioned eggs to entice those salmon. Depending on the time of year and water conditions, we might focus on back-trolling near the banks or running deeper water out in the main channel. Your guide's been doing this for years and knows every nook and cranny where salmon like to hold. Be ready to switch up tactics – what worked yesterday might not be the ticket today, and that's half the fun of fishing.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Chinook Salmon: The king of the Pacific salmon world, Chinook (or Kings) are the heavyweights of the Columbia. These brutes can top 50 pounds, though 15-30 pounders are more common. They're known for bulldogging runs and epic battles that'll test your arms and your drag. Chinook have a rich, oily flesh that's prized by anglers and chefs alike. Fall is prime time for these beauties, but we see decent runs in the spring too.

Coho Salmon: Don't let anyone tell you Coho (also called Silvers) are the "lesser" salmon. What they lack in size compared to Chinook, they make up for in acrobatics and fight. These sleek, silver torpedoes are famous for their wild aerial displays when hooked. They typically range from 6-12 pounds, with some pushing 20. Coho flesh is a bit milder than Chinook, but still packed with that classic salmon flavor. We see the bulk of our Coho run from late summer into fall.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

Let's be real – the Columbia isn't some secret spot. Plenty of folks fish here. But there's a reason it's world-famous, and it's not just the salmon. It's the whole package. You've got snow-capped volcanoes in the background, bald eagles soaring overhead, and a river steeped in history. Throw in the chance at a cooler full of premium salmon, and you've got yourself a day you won't forget. Our regulars tell us it's the perfect combo of relaxation and heart-pounding action. Plus, there's nothing quite like grilling up your catch at the end of the day – talk about satisfaction!

Time to Get Your Fish On

Look, we could go on all day about why this trip rocks, but the proof is in the pudding (or in this case, the salmon). If you're itching to tangle with some of the Pacific Northwest's most iconic fish in a stunning setting, this is your chance. Our calendar fills up fast, especially during peak salmon runs, so don't wait to book. Grab your spot now, and let's make some fish stories you'll be telling for years to come. Trust us, once you've felt that first big hit on your line, you'll be hooked for life. See you on the water!

Learn more about the animals

Chinook Salmon

Columbia River's prized catch, Chinook salmon, are the giants of the salmon world. These beauties typically run 20-30 pounds, with some monsters pushing 50+. You'll find them hugging the bottom in deeper runs and pools. Spring and fall are prime time, when they're heading upstream to spawn. Chinooks are famous for their hard-fighting spirit – when one hits, hold on tight! Their rich, flavorful meat is considered top-notch eating. To boost your chances, try trolling with herring or large plugs near the river bottom. Keep an eye on water temperatures; these fish prefer it cool. When you hook one, be ready for some serious action. Chinooks will test your gear and your skills, making them a favorite target for anglers looking for a real challenge on the Columbia.

Coho Salmon

Coho, or silver salmon, are the acrobats of the Columbia. Smaller than Chinooks, they typically weigh 8-12 pounds but pack a punch. Look for them in calmer areas, often near debris or in estuaries. Late summer to fall is prime Coho time as they head upriver. These fish are known for their spectacular aerial displays – when hooked, they'll leap clear out of the water, giving you a show. Cohos are prized for their bright orange meat and excellent flavor. To target them, try swinging spinners in faster water or twitching jigs in holes where they're holding. Here's a local tip: on sunny days, go with bright lures like hot pink or chartreuse. Cohos can be finicky, but when they're on, the action is non-stop. It's hard to beat the excitement of a silver salmon going airborne on your line.

About the DG Columbia Adventures

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6

Manufacturer Name: Mercury

Maximum Cruising Speed: 40

Number of Engines: 2

Horsepower per Engine: 250

Hop aboard for an exciting day of salmon fishing on the mighty Columbia River. We'll be targeting prized Coho and Chinook salmon as we navigate the river's currents. This trip is perfect for anglers of all skill levels looking to land some impressive catches. The Columbia offers diverse fishing grounds, from calm stretches to more challenging spots where the big ones like to hide. You'll have the chance to try different techniques and learn some local fishing secrets along the way. Keep your eyes peeled for bald eagles, ospreys, and other wildlife that call the river home. Don't forget to bring a camera to capture your proudest catches! Whether you're a seasoned pro or trying salmon fishing for the first time, you're in for a great day on the water. Just remember to pack some snacks, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure. Who knows? You might even reel in the catch of a lifetime on the legendary Columbia.

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