Fishing Report 05-28-2021
Angler Ben Braun fished recently with Fisherman’s Pro Guide, Eric Baird, and caught this awesome Spring Chinook from the lower Willamette River, showing that, while it has certainly been a challenging Spring Chinook season, there are still some quality fish available. Savvy Salmon anglers are keeping their fingers crossed that we see a late-season push of fish, as we have in recent years, to provide some good action to finish up the Willamette fishery. Nice fish, Ben!
(Play ‘N’ Hooky Guide Service: 503-504-1822.)
Fishing Report 5/28
Spring Chinook fishing on the Willamette has still been going with the majority of anglers focusing their efforts in the lower Harbor and Multnomah Channel. Trolling with either 360 or triangle flashers has been the most popular technique.
The Columbia River opened up last weekend for a three day opener and anglers found success. Throughout the lower river, anglers found success anchor fishing with Kwikfish, Mag Lips and Killerfish. And anglers closer to Bonneville Dam were finding success with spinners as well. Find a good traveling lane or choke point and put out your favorite Kwikfish, kick back and wait for the fish to find you.
Summer Steelhead fishing in local tributaries has been slower than expected. Anglers have been finding some fish but fishing should improve with this past week's rise in water height. These fish love to move up river with any bump on the river graph. Spinners, spoons, jigs and bait have all proven to be good bait options.
Sturgeon fishing down in the estuary has improved, with this week being better than the last. Squid, sand shrimp, anchovies and herring have all been working. Look for the last few retention days to be the best bet at a keeper Sturgeon.
Shad fishing is just getting started and this fast-paced fishery is a fun one for all anglers. These plentiful fish like to bite a variety of things like Dick Nites and Baby Simons. Small curly tail grubs in chartreuse or pink, as well as bright colored jig heads all work well.
Walleye fishing throughout the Columbia River Gorge has been good and anglers have been finding the best success trolling worm harnesses and bottom walker rigs. Finding long flat sections of river bottom have been the best option for finding success.
Trout fishing is picking up and folks have been finding success all throughout the Willamette Valley. St. Louis Ponds and North Fork Reservoir have both been stocked this week and should provide anglers with great opportunities. Casting spinners, Kastmasters and spoons have all been working as well as fishing bait off of the bottom or under a float.
Wherever you point your truck, boat or RV this holiday weekend, Fisherman's wishes you and your family safe enjoyment of our national freedom as we remember those who paid the ultimate sacrifice to ensure that freedom. Have fun, be safe, and may God Bless America!
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.
