Spring Chinook Fishing: When and Where (March-June)
We are currently fishing for Spring Chinook and will be on into June. We will be fishing on the Columbia River until it closes in early April plus any possible extensions that we may get further into April. After that we will be moving to the Willamette River. The Columbia River is expected to get back over 120k Spring Chinook and the Willamette River is expected to get about 50k back for the Spring of 2024. The Columbia typically re opens in May after enough fish have went over Bonneville dam to make it up to spawn. We have great fishing opportunities from now into June for Spring Chinook. When we fish the Columbia we typically fish near the Portland Oregon airport or up near Bonneville dam. When we fish the Willamette we typically fish in Oregon city or a little further down near Sellwood on into downtown Portland OR.
Spring Chinook Methods
When fishing for Spring Chinook we use a variety of methods. We “forward troll” with flashers and bait which can be very effective because we cover a lot of water and go to the fish. We “Back troll” using a diver with a bait of Salmon eggs. This can be very effective once the fish are stacking up in the system and the water temperatures are ideal. Lastly we “anchor” fish or Still fish…this is a sit back drink coffee and tell stories type of fishing. We have certain proven spots in travel lanes of these fish that are typically very productive. The Anchoring method is used more into late May and June when the fish are more channeled into the travel lanes.
Why Spring Chinook?
Pacific Northwest Spring chinook are hands down the best eating fish out of all the Salmon in the world. They are full of omega 3’s and protein that are great for your body and taste amazing. These fish are right out of the ocean and as bright and as fresh as you can get. You can only purchase Spring Chinook at specialty markets or fish markets. They often sell for over $50/lb! Other salmon will sell for $10-$15/lb so that tells you how sought after and amazing they are! Whether you cook them on the BBQ or in the oven they are unbelievably tasty!
When fishing for Springers you generally have to work harder to catch them than the Summer or Fall chinook, but when you get them it is all worth it! If I had to pick my favorite fish to catch it is most definitely Springers. While being a bit harder to catch, the satisfaction of knowing what’s for dinner is totally worth the wait!
Call text or email now and don’t miss out! 503-310-5724 or benparkerfishing@gmail.com
P.S I have days available sometimes as soon as then next day so don’t hesitate to call and check. If I can’t get you out on the day you’re looking for I work with several of the local guides that I can refer you to!
