Private Spring Chinook Fishing | Willamette River

Spring Salmon Fishing: 8-Hour Private Adventure

Get ready for the fishing trip of a lifetime on the Willamette and Columbia Rivers! Our 8-hour private spring salmon fishing adventure puts you right in the heart of Chinook country. With expert guides, top-notch gear, and a personalized experience, you'll be set up for success in landing these prized fish. Whether you're a seasoned angler or trying your hand at salmon fishing for the first time, this trip offers the perfect blend of excitement, relaxation, and the chance to reel in some of the best-tasting fish in the Pacific Northwest.

What to Expect on the Water

When you hop aboard one of our custom-rigged fishing boats, you're in for a treat. We'll cruise the scenic Willamette and Columbia Rivers, known for their healthy runs of spring Chinook. Our seasoned captains know these waters like the back of their hand, so we'll hit all the prime fishing spots. You'll learn the ins and outs of salmon fishing, from reading the water to perfecting your technique. And with a maximum of 6 guests, you'll get plenty of one-on-one attention. Don't worry about bringing any gear – we've got you covered with top-of-the-line rods, reels, and all the tackle you'll need. Just bring your excitement and maybe a lucky fishing hat!

Hooking Into Spring Chinook

Spring Chinook fishing is all about finesse and patience. We typically use a method called trolling, where we'll slowly cruise downstream, presenting our bait or lures at just the right depth. You might hear us talking about "back-bouncing" or "back-trolling" – that's when we use the boat's motor to hold position in the current, allowing our offerings to dance enticingly in front of hungry salmon. We'll be using a mix of bait like herring or sardine-wrapped plugs, as well as artificial lures like Kwikfish or spinners. Each has its day on the water, and we'll adjust our tactics based on what the fish are biting. Keep an eye on those rod tips – when a spring Chinook hits, it's game on!

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

There's something special about spring salmon fishing that keeps folks coming back year after year. Maybe it's the anticipation of that first big hit of the season, or the way the mist rises off the river in the early morning light. Could be the thrill of battling a chrome-bright Chinook as it makes a run for the next county. Or maybe it's just the simple pleasure of being out on the water with good company, swapping stories and soaking in the beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Whatever it is, once you've experienced it, you'll understand why spring Chinook fishing is the highlight of many anglers' year.

Species You'll Want to Hook

Chinook Salmon, often called King Salmon, are the stars of our spring fishing trips. These magnificent fish are the largest of the Pacific salmon species, known for their rich, flavorful meat and impressive fighting ability. Spring Chinook are particularly prized for their high oil content, which makes them arguably the best-tasting salmon you'll ever have the pleasure of eating.

In the spring, these fish are returning from the ocean to their natal rivers to spawn. They're at their peak condition – fat, feisty, and full of fight. A typical spring Chinook might weigh anywhere from 10 to 30 pounds, but don't be surprised if you hook into a 40-pounder! These fish are known for their powerful runs and acrobatic leaps, so be prepared for an arm-wrenching battle when you hook one.

The best time to target spring Chinook in our area is typically from March through June, with peak fishing often occurring in April and May. Water conditions, temperature, and run timing can all affect when the fishing is at its best, but that's where our local knowledge comes in handy. We'll put you on the fish when they're biting!

Top Catches This Season

While every fishing trip is unique, we've been having a stellar spring season so far. Just last week, one of our guests landed a beautiful 35-pound Chinook after an epic 20-minute fight. The week before, a father-son duo each caught their limit of hatchery fish, with the biggest topping out at 28 pounds. And let's not forget about Mary from Portland, who had never been salmon fishing before but managed to land a gorgeous 22-pounder on her very first cast! These are the kinds of memories we love helping our guests create.

Time to Book Your Spot

If you're itching to get out on the water and try your luck with these legendary spring Chinook, now's the time to lock in your trip. Our 8-hour private charters book up fast, especially during peak season. Remember, with a private trip, you've got the whole boat to yourself and up to 5 of your fishing buddies. It's the perfect way to celebrate a special occasion, bond with family, or just treat yourself to a day of world-class fishing.

Don't forget to ask about our fish cleaning and packaging services when you book. There's nothing quite like bringing home your catch to share with friends and family. And if you're new to preparing salmon, we'd be happy to share some of our favorite recipes!

So what are you waiting for? The Chinook are running, the gear is ready, and the river is calling. Book your spring salmon fishing adventure with True North Outdoors today, and get ready to make some unforgettable fishing memories. Tight lines, and we'll see you on the water!