Fishing Guide Near Kalama, WA
Guided salmon, steelhead, and sturgeon trips on the Columbia River
Kalama Fishing Guide
Kalama is a classic Columbia River fishing town — a small community built around its connection to the water. Located at Exit 32 on I-5, Kalama sits directly on the Columbia and is one of the closest river access points for anglers coming up from the Portland metro area. The town’s public boat launch provides direct access to some of the most productive tidal water on the lower Columbia.
Andy launches from Kalama when targeting Columbia River salmon and sturgeon. The stretch of Columbia between Kalama and the Lewis River confluence upstream is particularly productive during the fall chinook and coho runs, when massive schools of returning fish move through the tidal waters.
What You Can Catch Near Kalama
Spring Chinook (March – June) — Kalama is a prime launch point for trolling the Columbia’s tidal waters during the spring chinook run. Cut plug herring behind flashers is the go-to technique for these prized fish.
Fall Chinook (August – October) — The Columbia’s legendary fall king run passes through Kalama’s waters in huge numbers. Andy trolls flashers, spinners, and cut plug herring to intercept them.
Coho Salmon (September – November) — Aggressive coho stack up in the tidal waters near Kalama before pushing into the tributaries. These fish hit hard and fight fast.
Sturgeon (Spring – Summer) — The Columbia’s tidal flats near Kalama hold excellent sturgeon habitat. Andy anchors over structure and fishes the tide changes for catch-and-release battles with these prehistoric giants.
Portland’s Closest Columbia River Access
Kalama is only 35 minutes north of Portland on I-5, making it one of the most accessible launch points for Columbia River fishing. The Lewis River confluence is just upstream, and the Cowlitz River enters the Columbia a few miles downstream near Longview. Andy can easily pivot between these systems based on what’s fishing best, all from Kalama as a starting point.