Columbia Steelhead

Salmon Stryker · 06-25-2002, 06:01 AM

I've always been very busy at work during the summer months and have not experienced the summer steelheading on the Columbia. The weekend of July 12 my wife and kids are flying to New Mexico to visit my wife's grandmother and I'm going to the Columbia! Would anyone be willing to tell me where and how to fish as well as any idea's on where to camp? Anything would be helpful as I am a newbie to this fishery. [img]graemlins/1zhelp.gif[/img]

crabbait · 06-25-2002, 09:29 AM

Man, this is a big topic. You need to be a little more specific in order for us to help with an answer.

Are you going to be bank bound or do you have a boat?

There have been many recent posts on this subject. A little more info and we will be able to help you out.

Salmon Stryker · 06-25-2002, 09:58 AM

I'm sorry. I will be fishing from a boat. I am familiar with the water around the fishery and Rooster Rock from sturgeon and springer fishing. Haven't been down around I-205 or above Bonniville but I guess I am wondering where the Hot spot will be in mid July. Once I get out there I think/hope I can figure out how to catch em. Any suggestions or help from you guy's would save me a lot of time though I'm sure.

Spoons · 06-25-2002, 10:11 AM

I had good success last year around the Goverment Island area, which is also a good place to camp as well. I would usually put in at Chinook landing or the 42nd street boat ramp. orange u-20 flatfish and about 35' of water was pretty good success for us.

Have fun. This is one my favorites as you just anchor with 80deg. days, good tan, cold beverage and usually a chrome fish to add!

Have fun.

crabbait · 06-25-2002, 10:11 AM

There is a lot of fishing around the mouths of the Lewis, Kalama, and Cowlitz rivers. Most people are either anchored fishing flo. red flatfish or trolling.

Plunking spin'n glos from the sandy beaches is another great technique for summer steelies. Camping on an island is always a great experience.

Good luck.

Drachir · 06-25-2002, 08:19 PM

My suggestion would be to fish the North side of Government Island. Fish outgoing tide in 15'-18' of water with a good current flow. My best lure has been an X-4 Flourescent Red Flatfish. Use a 5' leader, and a 4' dropper. If the fish are there you should have success with this set-up. Good Luck!!!