Columbia River gorge fall run chinook
August 20 – September 13 Big Bright Chinook
If you’re after world-class Chinook salmon fishing, the Columbia River Gorge this late summer / early fall is one of the premier king salmon destinations you can find.
This fishery — running from about August 20 through September 13 — targets the fall run Chinook, often called upriver brights once they’ve begun their migration upstream. These are some of the largest and brightest Chinook you’ll see all year, with fish commonly pushing into the 20–30+ lb range and strong fighters worthy of any angler’s dream.
🌊 Why This Time Is Special
Peak Fall Chinook Migration: Starting in late August, big Chinook begin pushing upriver from the ocean and through the gorge.
Low Columbia River Flow: Typically lower river levels this time of year concentrate salmon and make for excellent fishing conditions throughout the mainstem and Drano Lake.
Big, Bright Fish: These Chinook are ocean-fresh, chrome-bright kings putting on a spectacular show and offering outstanding hook-to-boat action.
📅 Dates: August 20 – September 13
📍 Location: Columbia River Gorge around Stevenson Wa. — prime salmon water from the river mouth upriver through the gorge.
🎯 Target Species: Fall Chinook (“brights”), with aggressive strikes and memorable fights.
🎣 Techniques: We will be mostly trolling in our 26’ Willie’s Nemesis boat comfortably seating 6 people. We will also hover fish as conditions support.`
🛥️ Guided Trips & What to Expect
Our guided fall run Chinook trips run throughout this season and are tailored to maximize your chance at landing big kings. You’ll be fishing with an experienced guide on a well-equipped boat, fully rigged for Chinook salmon action. All you need is a valid fishing license and your excitement for big fish!
📌 Quick Tips for Anglers
Licenses & Regulations: Always carry the current state fishing license, Salmon punchcard, and check local emergency fishing rules before heading out (regulations can vary by section and change in-season).
Best Times of Day: Early morning and late afternoon bites are often most productive as fish move with low light and temperature shifts.
Fish Handling: Upriver brights are prime table fare — bright, firm flesh and rich flavor make them a favorite for both smokehouses and dinner plates. You leave with your fish in bag and filleted.
On these trips as with all our trips we supply all the gear, including top quality fishing rods, and custom made baits for each situation. All you need is your fishing license with salmon punchcard, and your own food and drink. Dress for the weather should include sunglasses and sunscreen, just NOT the aerosol kind. The cost for these trips are $250 a person for one to five anglers and $1400 for 6 people . These trips are a 2 person minimum, any party under 4 people will have others added to the boat, but also will have the option to buy out the boat. Deposit of half is required and if the trip is cancelled less then 90 days before the date, the deposit is forfeited. Come join us for some of the fast and furious action, a trip that you remember for years. These are very popular trips, so book early to ensure the date you want. Click below to pick your date and book your trip.
Claim your seat today…..
