Late Fall Fishing on the Columbia River Around Portland

As of December 1, 2024, the Columbia River around Portland is transitioning into its winter fishing season, though some fall activities are still viable. **Weather and Tides:** Today, the weather in Portland is expected to be partly cloudy with a high of around 48°F and a low of 38°F. The tidal conditions are crucial for fishing; today's high tide is at 10:04 AM and the low tide at 4:17 PM. Fishing is often more productive around the changing tides, especially during the incoming tide. **Sunrise and Sunset:** Sunrise is at 7:28 AM, and sunset is at 4:28 PM, providing a decent window for daytime fishing. **Fish Activity:** The fall salmon season is winding down, but there are still some coho salmon and steelhead to be caught. Yesterday, anglers reported catching a few coho salmon, particularly in the areas around the Hood River and near Buoy 10, although the action has been somewhat spotty. **Types and Amounts of Fish:** While the peak salmon season has passed, coho salmon are still present, especially in the upper sections of the river above the Hood River Bridge. Hatchery coho can be retained, but wild coho must be released below the Hood River Bridge. Steelhead are also starting to show up in the river, particularly in the lower sections. **Best Lures and Bait:** For coho salmon, trolling herring with divers or lead is highly effective. The use of spinners and spoons can also attract these fish. For steelhead, using small jigs, spinners, or bait like nightcrawlers and eggs can be productive. **Hot Spots:** - **Hood River Area:** This section has been one of the better spots lately, with a mix of coho and some Chinook still present. - **Buoy 10:** Although the peak season here has ended, it's still worth a try, especially during the incoming tide. - **St. Helens Area:** This area has also seen some fish caught recently, making it a good spot to check out. If you're planning to head out today, make sure to check the latest regulation updates, as they can change frequently. Enjoy your time on the water This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.