Sturgeon and Steelhead Bonanza: Fishing the Columbia River Near Portland

As of December 19, 2024, the fishing scene on the Columbia River near Portland is quite promising, especially for those targeting sturgeon and steelhead. ### Weather and Tides Although the tidal reports are more relevant to coastal areas, the general weather and river conditions are crucial. Today, expect partly cloudy skies with temperatures ranging from the mid-40s to low 50s. Sunrise is at around 7:48 AM, and sunset will be at approximately 4:28 PM. ### Fish Activity This time of year, the Columbia River is known for its excellent sturgeon fishing, particularly in the Portland area. From December to March, Portland Harbor, located at the mouth of the Willamette River, offers unbeatable sturgeon action. Yesterday, several sturgeon were caught in this area, with some fish measuring up to 6 feet in length. For steelhead, the winter runs are starting to pick up. Early-returning hatchery steelhead are beginning to appear in the lower Columbia River tributaries, and catch-and-release fisheries are available in certain areas. ### Types and Amounts of Fish Yesterday saw a decent number of sturgeon caught, with most anglers reporting catches of 2-4 fish per boat. Steelhead catches were more sporadic but still promising, with a few boats reporting 1-2 steelhead each. ### Best Lures and Bait For sturgeon, the best bait includes nightcrawlers, anchovies, and smelt. Using a heavy sinker to get your bait to the bottom is crucial, as sturgeon are bottom feeders. For steelhead, popular lures include spin-n-glos, jig and bobber rigs, and small spoons like the Blue Fox Vibrax. ### Hot Spots - **Portland Harbor**: This area is a hotspot for sturgeon fishing from December to March. The mouth of the Willamette River and the docks around Portland Harbor are excellent places to cast your line. - **Bonneville Dam**: Located just 40 miles east of Portland, this area is famous for its salmon and steelhead fishing. Nature parks like Washington’s Beacon Rock offer great access points for bank fishing. If you're planning to head out today, make sure to check the latest fishing regulations and ensure you have the necessary permits. The fish are biting, and with the right gear and knowledge, you could be in for a memorable day on the Columbia River. This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI.