For December 21, 2024, the fishing scene on the Columbia River near Portland is looking promising, despite the late season.
First, let's look at the tides. Today, you can expect a high tide at 5:39 AM with a height of 7.55 feet, followed by a low tide at 11:13 AM at 3.59 feet. The next high tide will be at 4:54 PM, reaching 6.96 feet, and the final low tide of the day will be at 11:25 PM at 1.49 feet[2].
The weather is expected to be cool and partly cloudy, with sunrise at 7:55 AM and sunset at 4:32 PM.
Fish activity has been steady, especially for those targeting salmon. Although the peak salmon season has passed, there are still some Chinook and coho salmon making their way up the river. Yesterday, anglers reported catching a mix of Chinook and coho, with some jacks also in the mix. The Hood River area above the bridge and the section below Bonneville Dam have been particularly productive[1].
For lures and bait, it's a good idea to use plugs like the Mag Lip or Blue Fox Vibrax, as well as hoochies or spinners. Live bait such as anchovies or herring can also be effective. If you're targeting coho, using a fin-clipped coho as bait can be a good strategy.
Hot spots include the area below Bonneville Dam, where fishing has been very productive for both Chinook and coho. The Hood River area above the bridge is another good spot, especially for those looking to keep wild coho. The St. Helens area has also seen some good catches recently[1].
Overall, it's a great time to get out on the water and enjoy the late-season fishing on the Columbia River. Just make sure to check the latest fishing regulations and ensure you're aware of any catch limits and restrictions.
This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI
