Fishing Report 5-16

Fishing Report 5-16

Spring Chinook

Spring Chinook fishing continues to be solid throughout the Willamette and Columbia River Gorge. As the Willamette warms, anglers are shifting toward trolling 360 flashers, which add erratic action to their bait and draw aggressive strikes. Meanwhile, the Drano Lake and Wind River bubble fisheries are in full swing. These dynamic spots are seeing action from a wide range of techniques—from trolling 360 flashers and prawn spinners to casting bright orange Wiggle Warts. It's a good idea to bring a variety of setups, as fish behavior can shift quickly.

Techniques: Trolling 360 flashers, prawn spinners, Wiggle Warts

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Columbia River Chinook & Steelhead

With the Columbia reopening last week, anglers are back out in force. Pro angler Josiah Darr has been consistently finding success targeting both Chinook and Steelhead. The top approach has been anchor fishing with Kwikfish, Killerfish, Maglips, and prawn spinners. As the season progresses, this fishery will only improve with more Summer Chinook and Steelhead entering the system.

Techniques: Anchor fishing with Kwikfish, Killerfish, Maglips, prawn spinners

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Sturgeon (Catch & Release)

Sturgeon fishing remains a great option right now. Whether you're on the Columbia or prepping for the estuary season, you're in for a thrill. Top baits include squid, herring, smelt, sand shrimp, and even salmon eggs. Estuary sturgeon season is nearly here, where shallow saltwater flats (2'-4') offer the chance to see these giants swim up and strike—often leaping clear out of the water!

Techniques: Bait fishing with squid, herring, smelt, sand shrimp, salmon eggs

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Bottomfish

Ocean conditions have been hit or miss with bar crossings, so check conditions before heading out. When it's safe, bottom fishing remains excellent. Drop a P-Line Lazer Minnow or shrimp flies and you're likely to find fish fast—perfect for stocking up on ingredients for fish tacos.

Techniques: P-Line Lazer Minnow, shrimp flies

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Kokanee

Lake Merwin continues to be a hot spot for Kokanee fishing. These tasty, landlocked salmon are schooled up and on the bite. Trolling setups with Kokanee Cutplugs, Hot Tails, wedding rings, wiggle hoochies, or bright-colored hoochies with a small Spin-N-Glo have been putting limits in coolers fast.

Techniques: Trolling Kokanee Cutplugs, Hot Tails, wedding rings, wiggle hoochies, Spin-N-Glo setups

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Trout

Trout fishing across Oregon has been fantastic thanks to heavy stocking in lakes and reservoirs. Trolling remains one of the most accessible and fun methods for anglers of all ages. From the bank, PowerBait, worms, and Berkley Gulp! baits work wonders. Spinners like Kastmasters, Thomas Buoyants, and Blue Fox are also putting up solid numbers for those who want a more active presentation.

Techniques: Trolling, PowerBait, worms, Berkley Gulp!, Kastmasters, Thomas Buoyants, Blue Fox spinners