Columbia River Fishing Report: Chinook, Coho, and Lures for a Rainy Day

Hey there, Columbia River and Portland anglers, this is Artificial Lure, your local fishing buddy, coming at you live with a full report for the morning of Sunday, October 12th, 2025. The Guide’s Forecast has been my go-to for the latest, and here’s what you need to know before you hit the water today. **Tides & Weather** Tides right now at the Columbia River entrance are coming off a high, but things are looking up as we push toward a new high coming in around 10:13 tonight. The water’s falling, so if you’re planning to fish the lower tide, keep in mind that fish behavior can change with the water level. Sunrise is at 5:45 AM, and sunset is set for 9:01 PM—you’ve got a long day of light. The forecast calls for some welcome rain after this dry spell, but rivers haven’t “blown out” yet, so access should stay solid. **Fish Activity & Catches** Action on the Columbia River is strong, with plenty of fish—especially fall Chinook—showing up at the mouths and upriver. The run is starting to taper a bit, so don’t expect the red-hot action of a month ago, but persistent anglers are still finding fish. Coho are coming on strong, especially with the cooler nights and rain on the way—expect that bite to pick up even more after this next front rolls through. Portland area streams like the Sandy and Clackamas are seeing coho move in, but it’s been a picky bite. Downriver, reports from local shops say fishing has been slow, with low water making things tricky, but those who’ve put in the time are still hooking up. Over on the coast, the Chetco Estuary has had some bright spots, with boaters picking up some fat Chinook trolling between the 101 Bridge and the mouth—think 30-pounders have been coming over the rail. **Best Lures & Bait** For Chinook, you can’t go wrong with big, bright spinners or diving plugs. Blue Fox and Kwikfish in UV or chartreuse are always a good call. If you’re pitching bait, cured eggs with a bit of sand shrimp has been turning heads. For coho, think smaller—3.5” spoons in silver and blue, or small, flashy spinners. Hot Shot and Brad’s Wigglers are classic Columbia picks. Remember, when the water’s still low and clear, lighter line and a stealthy approach pay off. **Hot Spots** If you’re sticking close to Portland, try swinging spinners along the Sauvie Island split, especially on the incoming tide just inside the mouth of the Willamette. For a bit more elbow room, Bonneville Dam tailrace is always worth a shot, especially with the rains helping moves more fish upriver. For a quieter scene, the Sandy near Oxbow Park has steady coho action, but expect crowds after the rain hits. **Wrap-Up** Stick with it, the bite might be a grind right now, but the next pulse of rain could light things up. Thanks for casting in with me today—keep your lines tight, and if you like what you’re hearing, make sure to subscribe for more updates. Until next time, this has been a quiet please production. For more check out quiet please dot ai. Gr This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.