Fishing Report 01-08-2021

This particular Steelhead Worm from Mad River Manufacturing can be extremely effective in the higher, murkier flows that we are currently seeing in Northwest rivers. On sale now at Fisherman’s Marine and Outdoor!

Fishing report 1-8

We had some serious rain this past weekend and rivers came right back up to un-fishable conditions. With that said, this week we are having far less rain and rivers look to be dropping into shape for the coming weekend. Rivers will still be high, but keep your fingers crossed that we will get a shot at chasing these beautiful Steelhead. Backtrolling small Mag Lips, Hot Shots, K-11 Kwikfish or Wiggle Warts is a great way to get your gear in front of fish. Drift fishing bright colored corkies, yarn, worms or rags are all great choices to slow down your presentation and give fish more time to find your offering.

This past week the upper Columbia opened up for a catch and keep Sturgeon season with anglers finding great success between Bonneville and the Dalles. With temps being mild and the river temps being mild the fish responded very well. Sand Shrimp, Herring, Smelt and Shad were all baits that worked well. However, due to the high catch rate, both the Dalles and Bonneville pools have closed to Sturgeon retention. Catch and release remains open.

Trout fishing in low elevation lakes is an opportunity that is virtually always there. These fish get stocked regularly throughout the Spring, Summer and Fall months and offer great opportunity for larger Trout through the winter. These fish have put on weight for months and are going to be looking for an easy meal as they are more sluggish in the cooler water. Fishing bait such as salmon eggs, nightcrawlers, Powerbait or shrimp are always go-to options.Spinners, spoons, Kastmasters and small plugs are also great choices when chasing these hard fighting fish.

Once we get a break in the weather, look for bottom fishing to become a good option for anglers wanting to fill the freezer. Large curly tail grubs, Shrimp Flies and Rock Cod Rigs are all good bait choices this time of year. Always check the wind and wave predictions and plan your trip accordingly.

Always be sure to check local regulations at ODFW and WDFW before heading out. Find reports and two most widely used baits, information on the Fisherman's Community page.