Fishing report 2-12

Winter Steelhead Fishing Report 

Winter steelhead fishermen were delighted to see some rain in the forecast last week. However, it wasn’t enough to cause significant changes in river conditions. That didn’t stop anglers from heading out, though. Despite the cold and clear conditions, fishing has remained decent. 

Pro angler Terry Mulkey has found success fishing small egg clusters, either under a float or by drift fishing in deeper water pockets. Similarly, pro angler Robert Kratzer has been using a float-fishing approach, focusing on a variety of jigs and beads. He has had success switching up colors to give the fish a different look. 

With snow in the forecast last week, followed by rain, rivers should start to rise. If they do, fishing conditions could improve significantly! 

Spring Chinook Update 

Springers, anyone? We’re still waiting to hear about the first few Spring Chinook being caught, but once they start showing up, you can be sure more will follow! Trolling plug-cut herring in either red or green is always a solid go-to option, as well as prawn spinners behind a flasher. In cold water, it often takes a well-scented, spinning bait to pique the interest of a purple-backed spring Chinook. 

Sturgeon Fishing 

Catch-and-release sturgeon fishing has been good, and the low flows in the Willamette River have created ideal anchoring conditions. Cold water tends to slow down sturgeon activity, but once you locate one, you’ve usually found a group. Squid, sand shrimp, herring, and prawns are all excellent bait choices. Bringing a variety of scents can help create a stronger scent trail, increasing your chances of attracting fish. 

Bottom Fishing 

Bottom fishing has been productive for those able to make it over the bar. Pro angler Andy Martin continues to split his time between winter steelhead and bottom fishing. On his most recent trip, he encountered fantastic lingcod action, along with limits of bass. Vertical jigs, scampi tails, and Farallon feathers have all been producing great results. 

Razor Clamming 

Razor clamming reopened last week for seven days along many Washington beaches. With more tentative dates scheduled in the near future, there will be plenty of opportunities to load up on fresh razor clams. 

Trout Fishing 

Trout anglers are starting to see local waters being stocked, including Henry Hagg Lake, which recently received 1,000 trophy-sized trout. Trolling small plugs like Mag Lips, Flatfish, and Hot Shots is an effective way to target the most aggressive fish in the area. Fishing bait under a bobber or off the bottom remains a tried-and-true technique. PowerBait, Berkley Gulp products, and nightcrawlers continue to be top bait choices. 

Kokanee Fishing 

Kokanee anglers have been finding success at Lake Merwin, with some nice-sized fish in the mix! Fishing high in the water column has been the key, as kokanee are actively seeking the warmest water available. Many anglers are having success flatlining a dodger and lure, sometimes adding a slight amount of weight, but a downrigger hasn’t been necessary lately. Using shoepeg corn and experimenting with different scent options has been keeping anglers on the fish!