Gearing Up for Sturgeon and Walleye on the Columbia River: Tidal, Weather, and Fishing Forecast for January 2, 2025

As of January 2, 2025, the fishing scene on the Columbia River near Portland is gearing up for the new year, particularly with the sturgeon season in full swing. ### Tidal Report Today, the tide is expected to be an incoming tide in the morning, which is typically one of the best times to fish. The tide will start rising around 9:30 AM and peak by 3:30 PM. This rising tide brings in cooler, oxygen-rich water that encourages fish to be more active[3]. ### Weather The weather is forecasted to be partly cloudy with a high of around 48°F and a low of 38°F. Light winds will be blowing at about 5 mph, making for a comfortable day on the water. ### Sunrise and Sunset Sunrise is at 7:53 AM, and sunset will be at 4:30 PM, giving you a good window for both morning and afternoon fishing trips. ### Fish Activity Yesterday saw some promising activity, especially for sturgeon. The January 2025 keeper sturgeon season has just begun, with the season open on Wednesdays and Saturdays until January 29 or until the quota is reached. Anglers reported catching several sturgeon in the Bonneville and The Dalles pools, with some fish measuring up to 6 feet in length[4]. ### Types and Amounts of Fish Caught The primary catch has been sturgeon, with a few walleye also being reported. The sturgeon fishing has been particularly good in the Columbia River Gorge, where the water flow from the dams creates ideal conditions for these giant fish[2][5]. ### Best Lures and Bait For sturgeon, the best bait is usually a combination of nightcrawlers, anchovies, or shad. Using a heavy sinker to get your bait to the bottom is crucial, as sturgeon are bottom feeders. For walleye, jigs tipped with nightcrawlers or minnows work well, especially in the deeper pools below Bonneville Dam[2][5]. ### Hot Spots - **Columbia River Gorge**: This area is a hotspot for sturgeon fishing due to its scenic and fertile waters. The gorge offers numerous spots where the water flow from the dams creates perfect conditions for sturgeon. - **Below Bonneville Dam**: This area is excellent for both sturgeon and walleye. The deep pool created by the dam attracts a lot of fish, making it a reliable spot for a good catch. Overall, today looks like a great day to hit the Columbia River, especially if you're after sturgeon or walleye. Make sure to check the latest regulations and catch limits before you head out. This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.