Portland's Best Spring Salmon Trip | True North

Spring Chinook Fishing: Portland's River Gold

Ready to chase some of the tastiest salmon in the Pacific Northwest? Our 8-hour Spring Chinook fishing trip puts you right in the action on Portland's legendary rivers. From March to July, we're targeting these prized "springer" salmon known for their rich, buttery flavor. Whether you're a local looking for your annual fix or a visitor hoping to land the catch of a lifetime, this trip delivers world-class fishing right in Portland's backyard.

What to Expect on the Water

We'll launch early, hitting either the Willamette or Columbia River depending on where the bite's been hottest. Our comfortable, well-equipped boat has room for two anglers plus your guide. We provide all the top-notch gear you'll need, from rods and reels to the latest fish-finding tech. No need to pack lunch – but feel free to bring snacks and drinks to keep you fueled up during a full day of fishing. Spring weather can be unpredictable, so dress in layers and don't forget rain gear just in case.

Hooking Into Springers

Targeting Spring Chinook takes skill, patience, and the right techniques. We'll likely be trolling with a mix of hardware (like Kwikfish or spinners) and bait (usually herring or sardine-wrapped plugs). Depth control is crucial – we'll be constantly adjusting our gear to stay in the strike zone where these salmon are holding. Don't be surprised if we switch spots a few times. Reading the water, finding current seams, and locating those perfect holes is all part of the game when chasing springers.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

"We had an amazing time on the river! Hugh was extremely well-prepared and went above and beyond to ensure we caught fish. His boat was not only well-equipped but also very comfortable. Overall, it was a fantastic experience, and we would highly recommend booking a trip with him!" - Danielle

"An all-around fantastic experience! Captain Hugh is a great guide with top-quality gear and a clean, comfortable boat. On a tough fishing day when only one other boat landed a fish, we managed to catch three! Highly recommend booking a trip with him!" - Teresa

"Hugh is an exceptional guide, and I can't recommend him enough! He's been fishing for his entire life, and it shows - he knows what the fish are thinking, where they're sitting, and what they're looking to eat. His boat is clean and spacious, he's got a huge variety of gear & bait (some of it custom designed), and he provided a safe & exciting experience that would be fun for all ages." - Henry

The Mighty Spring Chinook

Spring Chinook salmon, affectionately known as "springers," are the crown jewel of Pacific Northwest salmon fishing. These fish are prized for their incredibly rich, oil-packed flesh – a result of storing up energy for their long upstream journey. Averaging 10-20 pounds (with some monsters pushing 40+), springers give an impressive fight on the line. They're notoriously picky eaters, which makes fooling them all the more rewarding.

What sets Spring Chinook apart is their timing. These early-run fish enter the river system in peak condition, often with a tell-tale blue-green back and bright silver sides. Their flesh has a higher oil content than any other salmon, period. This makes them not only the best-tasting salmon you'll ever have but also ideal for smoking or grilling. Ask any Pacific Northwest angler – landing a springer is the ultimate prize.

Time to Book Your Spot

Spring Chinook season is a big deal in Portland, and prime dates fill up fast. Whether you're looking to fill the freezer with some of the best-eating fish around or just want to experience the thrill of hooking into a hard-fighting springer, this trip delivers. We've got the local knowledge, the right gear, and a passion for putting clients on fish. Don't miss your chance at landing the king of Northwest salmon – book your Spring Chinook trip today!