The Columbia River is a living force, its currents shifting with the pulse of seasons, daring anglers to adjust and thrive. On Oregon’s stretch, fishing is an engagement — a tactical dance — requiring keen observation and adaptability to the river’s seasonal moods. Spring’s thaw swells currents, flushing salmon upriver, while summer’s warm shallows coax sturgeon near the shores. Staying successful here hinges on reading water temperature, flow, and fish behavior with precision.

Spring (March to May) presents aggressive spring Chinook runs. The river pushes harder with snowmelt, and fish hug faster currents and deeper holes. Trolling deep with heavier tackle and anchoring in eddies near rocky points will up your catch rate. Use cut plug herring or roe clusters to mimic eggs releasing into the flow. Early morning and late evening are prime times when fish feed actively between temperature swings.

Summer months (June through August) warm the river’s surface; steelhead retreat to cooler tributaries. The main river slows, letting lake-run fish and sturgeon inhabit slower waters. Shallow jigs and drifting bait near underwater structures become effective. The Columbia’s changing shoreline exposes sandbars and submerged logs where fish shelter. Water clarity improves, so finesse lures in natural tones outperform flashy ones.

Fall (September to November) marks the return of fall-run Chinook and coho migration. Fish move closer to riverbanks, staging for upriver runs. This window demands precise timing—early fall sees fish in deeper pools, while late fall they press near spawning grounds. Adjust your approach to softer currents and consider float fishing with egg sacs or flies mimicking emerging insects. Cooler air and colder water slow fish metabolism; pauses in retrieval mimic natural movement.

Winter (December to February) chills the river, pushing most salmon upriver or into holdover pools. Sturgeon become prime targets, their sluggish feeding patterns favoring larger, scent-heavy baits like prepared shrimp or bloodworms. Ice risk near shorelines and fast currents require extra caution. Tackle choices lean towards durability to withstand cold and icy strikes.

Understanding these seasonal shifts isn’t just about gear; it’s about respecting the Columbia River’s rhythm. It tests anglers to observe, adapt, and engage with a force fiercely itself. Freshwater giants will reward those with patience, preparation, and respect.

Before heading out, check local regulations—seasonal closures and catch limits protect these species. Carry layered clothing for rapidly changing weather and waterproof boots for slippery banks. A quality fish finder helps decode murky depths. And always plan for safe riverbank access points; some spots demand short hikes through uneven terrain.

For any angler keen to ride these seasonal waves, mastering the Columbia is a challenge that pays dividends, blending adventure with the practicality of survival tactics. The river demands more than just bait and line—it requires you to move with it, mind and gear in sync with every seasonal turn.