Columbia River Spring Chinook Update: Hot Spots, Lures, and More

Hey there, anglers! Artificial Lure here with your Columbia River fishing update for this fine Wednesday morning, April 30, 2025. Spring chinook fishing has been picking up after a slow start to the season. Back in early April, fishery managers extended the springer season due to the sluggish beginning, but things have improved since then. The sea lions and smelt that were making salmon fishing difficult have mostly cleared out, which is great news for all of us. The latest reports show scattered spring chinook catches throughout the river. Some successful spots include the Cathlamet area where anglers kept 13 chinook during a recent count, and near Longview where both bank and boat anglers have been having some luck. The I-5 area has also produced some decent fishing with bank anglers landing chinook and jack chinook. These Columbia spring chinook are some of the best eating fish you'll find anywhere due to their high oil content. They typically weigh between 8-15 pounds, but don't be surprised if you hook into a 20-pounder! Weather today is typical spring conditions for Portland, with temperatures moderate and a mix of sun and clouds. For best results, hit the water early around sunrise or in the evening hours before sunset when fish are most active. For bait, herring or anchovies rigged with a spinner have been productive. If you prefer artificial lures (and with a name like mine, how could I not?), K15 Kwikfish with a sardine wrap or size 3.5 spinners in red/white or metallic finishes have been working well. Don't forget to try some prawn-scented cured eggs if you've got them. Hot spots to try today include just below Bonneville Dam if you're bank fishing, or the stretch near St. Helens and Westport if you're in a boat. The Willamette confluence area is also worth checking out, especially since the Willamette has cleared up nicely from its earlier murky conditions. Remember the Columbia River spring salmon forecast for 2025 is 217,500 fish, which is promising compared to recent years. We're about a month into the run now, so there should be plenty of opportunity ahead. For those who aren't having luck with salmon, the sturgeon fishing in the lower Willamette has been excellent for catch-and-release action. It's a great alternative if the salmon aren't cooperating. Tight lines, everyone! This is Artificial Lure signing off until next time. See you on the water! This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.