Springtime Fishing on the Columbia River - Walleye Bites Hot, Salmon Outlook Hopeful

COLUMBIA RIVER FISHING REPORT - May 3, 2025 by Artificial Lure, Local Angling Expert Good morning, river rats! It's a beautiful Saturday on the Columbia, though you'll want to bundle up for the early morning chill before things warm up later today. Current situation ain't looking too hot for salmon and steelhead enthusiasts, I'm afraid. The Columbia River is currently closed for salmon and steelhead angling from Buoy 10 all the way upstream to the Oregon/Washington border above McNary Dam[1]. Fishery managers are keeping a close eye on the upriver spring Chinook run, which was forecasted at 122,500 fish this year - better than last year's return but still below the 10-year average[5]. They might open additional angling opportunities as the run progresses, so stay tuned. The good news? Walleye fishing is running hot in The Dalles and John Day pools right now[1]. If you're after sturgeon, note that the lower Columbia below Bonneville Dam had a weekly checking that showed no catch for five boats with two anglers recently[1], so temper your expectations. For those willing to travel upriver, the Hood River area has been producing some decent salmon action according to reports from early October, with fish still working their way upriver at that time[2]. The Scappoose area was also seeing some coho catches then. Spring Chinook typically don't show up in large numbers until late March or April, but we're starting to see them in catches, particularly around Portland International Airport and downriver[3]. With the run being similar to recent years, we should be seeing some quality mainstem fishing opportunities soon[5]. Bait-wise, I'm hearing cured roe has been working well for the salmon that are around. For walleye, try bottom walkers with worm harnesses or jigs tipped with nightcrawlers. Hot spots include The Dalles Pool for walleye and, once salmon fishing reopens, the area around Portland International Airport looks promising. Remember, we've got some consumption advisories on parts of the Columbia due to high levels of mercury and PCBs, so check the Oregon Health Authority guidelines before you feast on your catch[1]. For those planning a full day on the water, sunrise was around 5:55 AM today with sunset expected around 8:20 PM. Keep an eye on the regulations update page for any changes - the states might open additional salmon fishing opportunities as they monitor that spring Chinook run[1]. That's the skinny for today, folks. May your lines stay tight and your coolers get heavy! This is Artificial Lure signing off until next time. See ya on the water! This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.