Deschutes River Salmon Fishing: Where, When and How It Works
Fall Chinook and steelhead around the Deschutes River mouth near The Dalles, how the fishery works and how a guided day on the Columbia fits in.
Hanford Reach Salmon Fishing: Seasons, Techniques and What to Expect
The Hanford Reach is the last long stretch of the Columbia in the United States that still runs free, with no dam holding it back. Fish that migrate here find real gravel, real current and deep channels, and that is why it holds some of the strongest fall Chinook fishing in the Northwest.
Why the Reach fishes differently
Most of the Columbia is a chain of reservoirs. The Reach is moving water, so salmon do what they do in a natural river: they hold in channels and behind current breaks, and they move with the light and the flow. That makes reading the water matter more than anywhere else on the system.
When the fish are here
Fall Chinook are the main event. On our seasons and runs calendar, fall salmon run from August through October, and the Reach follows that pattern. Early and late light are usually best, and a steady river with stable weather fishes better than a river that is rising or dropping fast.
Run size, open dates and bag limits change every year. They are set by WDFW, so read the current rules before you book, or call us and we will tell you what is open.
How guides fish the Reach
- Trolling. Plugs and spinners cover water and find the fish. It is the usual starting point.
- Back-trolling. In strong current, the boat holds the lure in the strike zone. It takes a skilled hand on the motor, which is a good reason to fish with a guide.
- Drifting bait. Working bait through seams and along edges where salmon rest.
- Casting. Spinners and spoons when fish are stacked in a known spot.
The right choice depends on flow and water clarity. Clear, low water calls for natural colours and lighter presentations. Stained water lets you go brighter.
Why go with a guide
The Reach changes from week to week and sometimes from day to day. A guide has been on the water recently, knows which holding water is producing and runs a boat built for the conditions. You show up with a licence and warm clothes; rods and tackle are provided on our trips.
Plan your day
See salmon fishing trips for how a salmon day works, trip rates for prices, and the seasons and runs page to pick your month. When you have a date in mind, you can reserve it online.
Questions anglers ask
What salmon can you catch in the Hanford Reach?
Fall Chinook are the main target. They run through the Reach in late summer and fall, and the Reach is also known for naturally spawning fish.
When is the best time for Hanford Reach salmon fishing?
The fall run is typically August through October. Exact open dates and limits are set by WDFW each year, so check the current rules before you book.
Is the Hanford Reach good for beginners?
Yes, with a guide. The guide runs the boat, handles the gear and tells you when to reel, so first-timers fish the same water as experienced anglers.
Which techniques work best for Chinook here?
Trolling plugs and spinners, back-trolling in current and drifting bait through the seams. Your guide picks the method for the day from flow and water clarity.
Keep reading
More from the river
-
-
Best Time for Columbia River Salmon Fishing: Spring, Summer and Fall
Which month is best for Columbia River Chinook: how the spring, summer and fall runs differ, what moves the timing and how to pick your date.
-
Salmon vs Sturgeon Fishing: Which Columbia River Trip Is Best?
Salmon or sturgeon on the Columbia? How the two trips differ in pace, season, skill and size, and which one fits you, your group or your first trip.
