The Strongest Fish
Fall kings come in fresh and heavy. Pound for pound this is the hardest sustained fight of any salmon we target, and the one guests talk about afterwards.
The Trip
GuidedFall Chinook
Fall Chinook are the reason a lot of people book a guide in the first place. From August through October the kings push in chrome-bright and full of fight, and the Columbia and the coastal rivers turn into the best pure salmon fishery we run all year.
These are big, powerful fish. A hooked fall king will take line whether you are ready or not, and the fight tends to last long enough that everyone on the boat stops what they are doing to watch. If you are going to do one salmon trip, do this one.
Why This Trip
What Makes It Worth The Drive
Peak Numbers
Late August through October is the densest stretch of the salmon calendar. More fish in the system means more chances at a good one.
Water That Suits The Day
We run the Columbia and seven coastal rivers. Ryan picks the one fishing best on your dates rather than fishing the same stretch regardless.
Filled Coolers
A good fall day sends guests home with real weight in the cooler. Cleaning, filleting and bagging are handled before you leave the ramp.
How The Day Runs
Ramp To Cooler
Early launch
Fall Chinook fish best in the first light. We start early, with rods rigged and the boat already on the water when you arrive.
Work the run
Trolling, back-bouncing or anchor fishing depending on the river and the stage of the tide. Ryan runs the gear and coaches the hookset.
Fish cleaned and bagged
Your catch is filleted, bagged and iced at the ramp. You drive off with it ready for the freezer.
What's Included
Gear Handled,catch handled
Every trip is fully outfitted. Bring a valid fishing license, dress for the weather, and the rest is covered.
- All rods, reels, tackle and bait
- Safety gear and licensed, insured captain
- Cleaning, filleting and bagging of your catch
- Coaching for every experience level
- Flexible launch points across Oregon waters
What To Bring
- Layers, mornings on the water in October run cold
- Rain gear for the back end of the season
- Non-slip footwear
- A cooler with ice for the drive home
Questions
Fall Chinook FAQ
When is the best time to book a fall Chinook trip?
Late August through October is the peak of the run. September dates go first, so book early if you want a weekend inside that window.
How big do fall Chinook run?
Fall kings are the largest salmon we target. Sizes vary year to year with the return, so ask when you call and we will tell you honestly how the run is shaping up.
Which river will we fish?
We fish the Columbia plus the Rogue, Umpqua, Wilson, Trask, Nestucca and Nehalem. Ryan picks the water running best on your dates and confirms the launch point ahead of the trip.
What does a fall Chinook trip cost?
Full day trips are $250 per person and half days are $150 per person. A $50 per person deposit reserves your date, with the balance settled on the day.
