Sturgeon Fishing Guide
Guided catch-and-release sturgeon trips on the Columbia River
Sturgeon Fishing on the Columbia River
White sturgeon are living dinosaurs — prehistoric fish that have inhabited the Columbia River basin for over 200 million years. These massive bottom-dwellers can exceed 10 feet in length and live over a century, making them the largest freshwater fish in North America. Hooking into a big sturgeon on the Columbia River is a bucket-list experience that Andy’s clients come back for year after year.
The Columbia’s tidal waters between the mouth and Bonneville Dam hold one of the healthiest white sturgeon populations on the West Coast. Andy has been guiding sturgeon trips on this stretch for over two decades, and his knowledge of the holes, ledges, and current seams where these fish stage makes for consistently productive days on the water.
Catch-and-Release Fishery
Columbia River sturgeon fishing is primarily catch-and-release, with occasional retention seasons for hatchery-origin fish when population targets are met. Even without keeping a fish, the experience is unforgettable — battling a 6- to 8-foot sturgeon on heavy tackle is some of the most intense freshwater fishing available anywhere. Andy ensures safe handling and quick releases so these ancient fish continue to thrive for future generations.
Techniques & Tackle
Sturgeon fishing is an anchor-and-wait game — but it’s far from passive. Andy positions the boat over productive structure using his knowledge of bottom contours and tidal flow, then deploys heavy rods rigged with sand shrimp, smelt, or squid on sliding sinker setups. When a sturgeon picks up the bait, the rod loads slowly before the fish realizes it’s hooked — then all hell breaks loose. These fights can last 20 minutes or more, with powerful runs and headshakes that test every knot and connection.
Best Season
Sturgeon fishing on the Columbia runs from spring through fall, with the strongest bite typically from May through August as water temperatures rise and baitfish move through the system. Tidal influence plays a major role — Andy times trips around incoming tides that push bait and scent into holding areas. Spring and early summer trips often coincide with excellent salmon and steelhead fishing, making multi-species days a possibility.