Columbia River White Sturgeon Fishing: What Anglers Need to Know
Keeper and oversize white sturgeon on the Columbia: what the fish are, the pools they live in, how they are caught and when to go.
Salmon vs Sturgeon Fishing: Which Columbia River Trip Is Best?
Both trips are classics, and they feel very different. Here is how to choose.
Pace
Salmon fishing is active. The boat is moving, lines are being checked and the rods are always doing something. Sturgeon fishing is patient. You set up, wait and then everything happens at once.
Size
Chinook average around 22 pounds, with fish of 40 pounds and up possible. Sturgeon are in another class: keepers run roughly 4 to 5 feet, and oversize fish can be around 10 feet.
Season
Salmon follow the runs: spring, summer and fall. Sturgeon fish in winter for keepers (January to March) and summer for oversize (June to August), with fish in between. Check the seasons and runs page for your month.
Skill
Neither needs experience on a guided trip. Salmon rewards good boat work and presentation, which your guide handles. Sturgeon takes patience and a steady hand when the fish runs.
Which suits you
- First trip, want action: salmon.
- Want the biggest fish you may ever catch: sturgeon.
- Cold-weather date: keeper sturgeon, in a heated cabin.
- Group or family: talk to us. Shad or walleye may fit better.
- Can not decide: the combo trip mixes fish. See trip rates.
Learn more
Read about salmon fishing trips and sturgeon fishing trips, then reserve your date.
Questions anglers ask
Which is more active, salmon or sturgeon fishing?
Salmon fishing is usually faster, with moving boats and more bites. Sturgeon is a slower build with a very big fish at the end.
Which is better for beginners?
Either works with a guide. Salmon keeps first-timers busy; sturgeon suits people who want a very large fish and do not mind waiting.
When can I fish each one?
Salmon run in spring, summer and fall. Keeper sturgeon fish January to March and oversize from June to August.
Keep reading
More from the river
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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.
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Best Columbia River Fishing Trips for Families
What makes a good family fishing day on the Columbia: which fish suit kids, which season to pick and what to ask before you book a guided trip.
