Fishing Report 9/26

Columbia River 

The Columbia has been kicking out both Coho and Chinook from Buoy 10 all the way up to Pasco. Different sections of the river have been open at different times, so be sure to check regulations before heading out. Currently, our Pro Staff fishing in Astoria have been reporting good Coho action. 360 flashers with small spinners, hard plastic spinning baits, and fresh bait have all been producing well. 

 Tillamook & Nehalem Bay 

Both bays have been giving up quality Chinook and Coho this past week. Pro Terry Mulkey has been catching fish trolling 360 flashers with 3.5-size Minnie Mulkey Spinners, while Pro James Skaar has also been successful trolling flashers with spinners. 

 Bottom Fishing 

Coastal bottom fishing remains a solid option. Anglers have been finding a wide mix of species, with Lingcod and Cabezon being the most sought-after. Vertical jigs, shrimp flies, and large curly-tail grubs have all been very productive. 

 Tributary Coho 

Tributary Coho fishing is ramping up across Oregon and Washington. The Sandy and Clackamas are giving up fish daily, as are the Lewis and Cowlitz. These fisheries should only improve with rain bringing in fresh pushes of fish. Spinners, spoons, beads, bait, and twitching jigs are all working well right now. 

 Surf Perch 

Fall is a great time to target surf perch along the coast. As we move into more favorable low tides, forage gets churned up when the tides roll back in, which pulls perch into the shallows. Sand shrimp, clam necks, and Berkley Gulp Sandworms are excellent baits to use. 

 Albacore Tuna 

Late September can be one of the best times for Albacore as the fish have been feeding all summer and are at their heaviest. Vertical jigging is one of the most effective ways to get them up from the depths and create a feeding frenzy. Once the frenzy starts, it’s possible to plug the boat in short order. Vertical jigs, swim baits, and live bait are top options. 

 Trout 

Trout fishing remains strong across the region, with some of the largest fish of the year being caught now as they feed heavily before winter. Larger fish that were elusive all summer are now leaving cover to seek easy meals. Trolling works well with Mag Lips, Flatfish, and wedding rings. Bank anglers can find success with PowerBait or nightcrawlers, while spinners or Kastmasters are effective early and late in the day. When trout are rising in the evenings, a bubble-and-fly setup can be the perfect trick.