Outdoor Report 8/30

Fishing in the Astoria area has been improving for fishermen targeting Coho. These aggressive fish are typically found higher in the water column riding the temperature difference between the cool ocean and warm Columbia water, as opposed to Chinook who like to hug the bottom on outgoing tides. Anchovies or herring will work when angling for Coho, and spinners are another good option. The first few fish you encounter in a decent size pod will attack a well-placed spinner with reckless abandon. Fishermen will use spinners ranging in size from 3.5 to 7, having a variety on hand can pay dividends. Chinook fishermen are starting to see better fishing along the lower Columbia all the way up to Bonneville. These fish are on the move, so making sure you get your gear in front of these fish will be paramount. Trolling spinners or anchor fishing wobblers will be the most popular choices for the lower river anglers. As you get closer to Bonneville you will see many fishermen switching over to anchoring with Kwikfish. The fish are in hard currents, so plugs are a terrific way to target these Chinook. Wrapping your plugs with herring, sardines, anchovies or tuna will greatly improve your success. Anglers have had good success with catch and release sturgeon this last week using herring, anchovies, squid or sand shrimp as bait. Having several different baits on board will allow you to key in what these fish want on a particular day. Bottom fishing has still been excellent for those targeting the saltwater species. SeaBass, Lingcod and even near-shore Halibut have been making up most of the fish being caught. Crabbing has also been good lately. The crab are starting to fill out and put on some weight, it looks like those crabbing this fall will be in for some quality sea spiders. Always be sure to check local regulations at ODFW and WDFW before heading out. Find reports and information on the Fisherman's Community page.