Top-Rated Buoy 10 Salmon Fishing in Astoria

Buoy 10: Astoria's Salmon Super Bowl

Get ready for the fishing trip of a lifetime at Buoy 10 in Astoria, Oregon. This isn't just any old day on the water – it's the Pacific Northwest's most anticipated salmon run, drawing anglers from all over. From August to September, the Columbia River estuary lights up with fresh ocean-run Chinook and Coho salmon, and you'll be right in the thick of the action. Our 8-hour shared trip puts you on the hottest spots where these trophy fish are charging through. It's called the "Super Bowl of Salmon Fishing" for a good reason, and trust me, once you've experienced it, you'll see why die-hard anglers block off their calendars year after year for this.

What to Expect on the Water

When you step aboard our boat, you're in for a day of non-stop fishing action. We'll cruise out to the mouth of the Columbia, where the river meets the Pacific. This mixing zone is like a salmon highway, and we know just where to set up shop. You'll be working with top-notch gear, trolling or mooching depending on the conditions. Don't worry if you're new to this – our guides will show you the ropes and have you fishing like a pro in no time. The boat's limited to just two guests, so you'll get plenty of personal attention and room to work those rods. Fair warning: when a chrome-bright Chinook hits your line, hold on tight – these fish fight like freight trains!

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

Buoy 10 isn't just another fishing spot – it's the big leagues of salmon angling. The sheer numbers of fish moving through here are staggering. On a good day, you might see your rod double over every few minutes. It's not uncommon for anglers to limit out early, giving you a chance to target both Chinook and Coho in the same trip. But it's not just about filling the fish box. There's something special about being out there when the bite is on, surrounded by other boats, everyone hooked up at once. The energy is electric. And let's not forget the scenery – with the rugged Oregon coast as your backdrop, even a slow day of fishing beats a good day at the office.

Top Catches This Season

At Buoy 10, we're talking serious salmon. Chinook (or "Kings" as we call 'em) can push well over 30 pounds, with some monsters topping 50. These are ocean-fresh fish, full of fight and swagger. Coho (or "Silvers") might be a bit smaller, but what they lack in size they make up for in acrobatics – expect aerial shows when you hook into these guys. Our tactics change with the tides and conditions. Some days we're dragging herring close to the bottom, other times we're working the rips with cut-plug herring or spinners. Whatever's working, we'll dial it in to put you on fish. And hey, don't be surprised if we hook into some other Columbia River residents like sturgeon or steelhead – it's all part of the Buoy 10 experience.

Customer Stories

"Hugh was amazing. Super knowledgeable, and he kept us moving if we went to a spot and were not catching. We would often be reeling in fish when boats around us were not catching anything. We went with Hugh on a small guided trip with a few of our company leaders and he made the experience really great! I would highly recommend Hugh and True North Outdoors LLC if you are looking for a guide for your fishing adventures!" - Connor

Species You'll Want to Hook

Chinook Salmon: The king of the Pacific, Chinook are the heavyweights of the salmon world. These bruisers enter the Columbia River packed with ocean-fed muscle, often weighing 20 to 40 pounds. August is prime time for Chinook at Buoy 10, with the bigger fish typically showing up early in the run. They're known for their deep, powerful runs and stubborn fights. When you hook a Chinook, you'll feel the difference – it's like trying to stop a subway train with a piece of string. Their flesh is prized for its high oil content and rich flavor, making them a favorite for the grill or smoker.

Coho Salmon: Also known as Silvers, Coho start showing up in good numbers by late August and peak in September. While generally smaller than Chinook (averaging 6 to 12 pounds), what Coho lack in size they make up for in feistiness. These acrobatic fish are known for their spectacular aerial displays when hooked. They're aggressive biters, often hitting lures with reckless abandon, which makes for exciting visual strikes. Coho flesh is a bit milder than Chinook but still packed with that distinctive salmon flavor. They're excellent for canning or cooking fresh, with a delicate texture that's hard to beat.

Time to Book Your Spot

Alright, let's cut to the chase – Buoy 10 is the real deal, and spots fill up faster than a salmon swims upstream. This isn't just fishing; it's a chance to be part of one of the most exciting angling events in the Pacific Northwest. Whether you're a seasoned pro or it's your first time chasing salmon, our 8-hour shared trip is your ticket to the action. We provide the expertise, the gear, and the hotspots. All you need to bring is your game face and maybe a cooler for your catch. Remember, we're talking about a limited window here – this fishery peaks from August to September, and prime dates vanish quicker than free beer at a boat launch. So don't wait around – grab your spot now and get ready for a day of rod-bending, drag-screaming action at Buoy 10. Trust me, your future self will thank you when you're battling a chrome-bright King with the Columbia River as your arena. Book now, and let's make some fishing memories that'll have you coming back year after year!