Goble ramp or Kalama ramp?

Waterfish · 03-30-2004, 03:40 PM

I am planning to go after springers in the Kalama area for the first time this Friday and Saturday. I've never been to either of the ramps that access this area (Goble ramp on the Oregon side; Kalama ramp on the Washington side). I plan to moor and sleep on my boat. Not considering the driving distances to either ramp, which ramp is nicer ... fewer break-ins, better mooring area, etc? Also, if it's not too much of a zipperlip question, is the Kalama area primarily a trolling area, or is it a trolling and anchor fishing area?

Lured In · 03-30-2004, 03:43 PM

I have never launched at Goble, but Kalama is a pretty decent ramp. I understand there is RV/Camping next to the launch also. If you are going to stay on the river, I really couldn't speak to the break in issue.

Tyeebuster · 03-30-2004, 04:01 PM

Kalama is a very nice launch and has a guest dock. As stated earlier it also has a camp gound very close to the launch, less than 0.5 miles away. The area is well lighted and patrolled. There is both trolling and anchor fishing in the area. They are easy to find, just follow the boats!Hope this helps.

chynook · 03-30-2004, 04:10 PM

I prefer to use the Kalams ramp when we spend the night - I usually show up about 8pm on Friday night, and I always stop and talk to the security patrol before launching. It gives me a little extra peace of mind, and it also keeps them from wondering why my truck and trailer are still in the lot, and not having to wonder if there is a stranded boater out there.

fishchaser · 03-30-2004, 04:14 PM

I have launched at both and I prefer the Kalama launch. It's bigger, People are nicer, and you don't HAVE to pay to launch. I do believe the Goble ramp you must pay. If you don't have to pay it's because they have gone public.

Good Luck

Fshklr · 03-30-2004, 04:17 PM

Never been to the goble launch but the kalama is nice..be prepared for long lines at launch and take out and the ramp is STEEP! be sure to have good parking breaks and trans.
there is an r.v campground with hook ups and bathrooms just up the road from the marina right on the CR.

There is also a private campground (camp kalama) just after the I-5 bridge crossing the kalama river.

Waterfish · 03-30-2004, 06:07 PM

Thanks for the great replies - this was just the kind of information I was looking for. You guys have me leaning towards the Kalama ramp, but on the other hand, the long lines at the Kalama ramp are something I try to avoid. In fact that is one reason why I would sleep on my boat, so that in a two day trip I would only have to launch and pull out once. Maybe the Goble ramp would be less crowded...?

Thumb Burner · 03-30-2004, 08:28 PM

Goble ramp is a little steep and the dock need some work. It is narrow and only room for one rig at a time. There isnt much parking there so you have to get there early. Its a ways to drive if you dont have a parking spot. Not sure if your allowed to park up on the highway if it gets full. There is $3 put in fee. Nice owner tho.

SS