Epic Buoy 10 Salmon Fishing on Columbia River

Published Date: August 19, 2025
Fishing

Columbia River
Updated Date: November 16, 2025

Summary

Ready for some epic salmon fishing? This Buoy 10 trip in Astoria is your chance to chase Chinook and Coho during the prime August run on the Columbia River. We'll get an early start to make the most of our day on the water, fishing for up to 8 hours or until we hit our limit. Don't worry if you're new to this - our experienced guide's got you covered with all the gear and know-how you'll need. Just remember to grab your Oregon or Washington fishing license and salmon tag before you hop aboard. With room for up to 6 people, it's a great day out whether you're flying solo or bringing some buddies. The Columbia's legendary for its salmon runs, and Astoria's the perfect spot to get in on the action. We'll be right in the thick of it at Buoy 10, where the river meets the Pacific. It's a full day of casting, reeling, and hopefully landing some impressive fish to take home. Let's see what we can catch!

Epic Buoy 10 Salmon Fishing on Columbia River

Salmon Strikes at Buoy 10

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

Reel in Salmon Gold at Buoy 10 in Astoria

Get ready to chase some of the biggest salmon runs on the West Coast with DG Columbia Adventures. Our Buoy 10 guided trip puts you right in the heart of the action as Chinook and Coho salmon make their annual migration up the Columbia River. Whether you're a seasoned angler or it's your first time wetting a line, this full-day charter is your ticket to world-class salmon fishing in one of Oregon's most scenic spots.

What to Expect on the Water

We'll meet up bright and early in Astoria - the exact time varies to hit peak fishing windows, but count on an dawn departure. Our seasoned captains know every eddy and dropoff where salmon like to hold, so we'll waste no time getting to the hot spots. You'll be trolling with downriggers, using tried-and-true setups that entice even the wariest kings and silvers. The Columbia can get choppy, so come prepared with layers and rain gear. We fish for up to 8 hours or until limits are reached. With room for 6 anglers max, there's plenty of elbow room to work those trophy fish.

Gearing Up for Buoy 10

No need to stress about tackle - we provide all the rods, reels, and terminal gear you'll need to put fish in the box. Our boats are decked out with top-notch electronics to find those bait balls and ledges where salmon stack up. We use a mix of cut-plug herring, hoochies, and flashers to match what the fish are keying in on. The only thing you need to bring is a valid Oregon or Washington fishing license with a salmon tag. Don't forget snacks, drinks, and a camera to capture your catch of the day.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Chinook Salmon: Also known as kings, these are the heavyweight champs of the Columbia. Buoy 10 Chinooks average 15-25 pounds, with 40+ pounders not unheard of. They hit like freight trains and put up an epic fight. Look for that telltale black mouth when you bring one boat-side. Peak season is mid-August through Labor Day.

Coho Salmon: Don't sleep on these silver bullets. While typically smaller than kings, cohos make up for it with acrobatic leaps and blistering runs. They average 6-12 pounds at Buoy 10, with some pushing 20. Coho numbers usually peak in late August and September. Their chrome-bright sides and spotted tails are a sight to behold.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

Buoy 10 isn't just a fishery - it's a bucket list experience for salmon addicts. The sheer number of fish funneling through this stretch of the Columbia is mind-blowing. On good days, double and triple hookups aren't uncommon. Even when the bite is tough, the backdrop of cargo ships, historic lighthouses, and misty coastal mountains makes for an unforgettable day on the water. Plus, there's nothing like the rush when your rod doubles over and line starts screaming off the reel. It could be the fish of a lifetime on the other end.

Time to Book Your Spot

Don't miss your chance to be part of one of the Pacific Northwest's most legendary salmon runs. Our Buoy 10 charters book up fast, especially for prime August and September dates. Whether you're looking to fill the freezer or just want to tangle with some hard-fighting Columbia River kings and silvers, DG Columbia Adventures has you covered. Give us a call or book online to lock in your spot. We'll see you on the water!

Learn more about the species

Chinook Salmon

Chinook, or King Salmon, are the heavyweights of the Pacific Northwest. These bruisers typically run 15-30 pounds, but don't be shocked if you hook into a 40+ pounder. They're bottom-huggers, so we'll be fishing deep with weighted gear. August is prime time for Chinooks in the Columbia, when they're heading upriver to spawn. Anglers love 'em for their hard-fighting spirit and rich, flavorful meat. To up your chances, try trolling with herring at first light – these big boys are suckers for baitfish at dawn. Just remember, Chinooks can be finicky. If they're not biting, don't be afraid to switch up your presentation. Sometimes a bright-colored lure on a cloudy day can turn the tide. Keep your drag set right, and get ready for some serious action when a King decides to run.

Coho Salmon

Coho, or Silver Salmon, are the acrobats of the salmon world. These medium-sized fighters usually clock in at 8-12 pounds, but they punch well above their weight class. You'll find them in the calmer spots of the Columbia, often hanging out near debris or in deeper pools. They're not as deep-dwelling as Chinooks, so we'll fish a bit higher in the water column. Cohos are known for their spectacular leaps and runs, making them a blast on light tackle. Their meat is prized for its bright orange color and delicate flavor. Late summer into fall is prime Coho season here. If you're looking to hook one, try casting a bright pink or chartreuse spinner near cover – these fish can't resist a flashy lure zipping by their hideouts. Just be ready for some airborne action when they strike. It's not uncommon to see a Coho clear the water by several feet during a fight.

About the DG Columbia Adventures

Vehicle Guest Capacity: 6

Manufacturer Name: Mercury

Maximum Cruising Speed: 40

Number of Engines: 2

Horsepower per Engine: 250

Ready to reel in some big ones? Hop aboard our Buoy 10 salmon fishing charter in beautiful Astoria, Oregon. We'll hit the Columbia River at the crack of dawn to chase after prized Chinook and Coho salmon during their peak August run. Our seasoned guide knows all the hotspots and will set you up with top-notch gear to maximize your chances of landing a trophy fish. Whether you're a first-timer or an experienced angler, you'll feel right at home on this full-day adventure. We'll spend up to 8 hours on the water or until everyone's caught their limit. Just remember to bring your fishing license and salmon tag – we'll take care of the rest. With room for up to 6 guests, it's the perfect outing for a group of friends or family looking to make some unforgettable fishing memories on the mighty Columbia.

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