Captain Hugh is the USCG licensed, insured, and bonded owner/operator of True North Outdoors, bringing a lifetime of experience and a deep passion for fishing to every adventure. From an early age, he developed a love for the outdoors, a strong work ethic, and an insatiable curiosity for fishing—values instilled in him by his father, a fisheries biologist. Fishing is more than just a pursuit for Hugh; it’s a way of life that brings endless joy through the challenge of seeking the elusive yet attainable. He finds peace in connecting with the tides and seasons, embracing the rhythms of nature, and immersing himself in the living world. These experiences are meant to be shared, and Hugh is dedicated to helping people of all ages and backgrounds relish, respect, and conserve the incredible resources of the Pacific Northwest. Beyond guiding fishing adventures, Hugh has been a featured author for Salmon &amp; Steelhead Journal and a host of numerous fishing seminars in the PNW community. As a devoted husband and father of two, he is raising his family to cherish and protect the great outdoors for generations to come. With over 15 years of experience as a healthcare professional serving Oncology patients and families, Hugh brings his commitment to excellence, integrity, safety, and expertise to every trip, ensuring a top-tier experience for his clients both on and off the water. Fishing with True North Outdoors offers the opportunity to target Chinook Salmon, Coho Salmon, Lingcod, Black Rockfish, and more, depending on the season. Anglers can engage in spinning, trolling, jigging, bottom fishing, and other techniques across Oregon’s coastal waters and Portland’s Willamette Valley. Any legal catch is yours to keep, cleaned and packaged with care to ensure the highest quality for your table—so don’t forget to bring a cooler! Trips take place aboard a 26’ River Wild aluminum fishing boat, fully equipped with premium rods, reels, tackle, and custom-tied lures. Families and all ages are welcome, with child-sized life vests available upon request. Bringing along snacks is recommended to keep energy levels up during the trip.All guests must purchase a local fishing license and salmon tag before the trip, available through ODFW or by consulting with Captain Hugh. Some species may have restrictions, so checking regulations in advance is advised. Book your next adventure with True North Outdoors, and let Captain Hugh share his passion, and love for the outdoors with you!

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A lone lake trout, a 36-inch trophy catch, in Portland

Salmon Fishing

Photograph of a fisherman holding a large rainbow trout in Portland, Oregon

Coho Salmon caught while fishing in Portland

Angler with a big fish caught in Portland

4 big chinook salmon caught while fishing in OR

Chinook Salmon, 32 inches, caught fishing in OR

Chinook Salmon caught while fishing in OR

A group of 8 coho salmon and chinook salmon caught while fishing in OR

Captain Hugh, owner and operator of True North Outdoors, is a USCG-licensed, insured, and bonded guide with a lifelong passion for fishing and the outdoors. Growing up with a fisheries biologist father, he developed a deep respect for Pacific Northwest fisheries, conservation, and sustainable angling. With years of experience and a strong work ethic, he is dedicated to providing anglers of all skill levels with an exceptional fishing experience. His knowledge of seasonal fish migrations and proven techniques ensures a successful and enjoyable day on the water. Fishing with True North Outdoors means targeting some of the PNW’s most sought-after species, including Chinook Salmon, Coho Salmon, Lingcod, and Black Rockfish. Whether you're fishing the Willamette River, Columbia River, Buoy 10, or the Oregon Coast, Captain Hugh uses top-tier gear and a fully equipped aluminum fishing boat to give you the best chance at landing your catch. From spring and fall salmon runs to ocean fishing adventures, every trip is designed to be both exciting and memorable.

Captain Hugh, owner and operator of True North Outdoors, is a USCG-licensed, insured, and bonded fishing guide with years of experience navigating Oregon’s premier fishing waters. Raised with a deep passion for the outdoors and a strong work ethic instilled by his father, a fisheries biologist, Hugh has dedicated his life to sharing the thrill of fishing with anglers of all skill levels. His expertise spans from the Columbia and Willamette Rivers to the rugged Oregon Coast, where he skillfully guides guests to some of the region’s most sought-after fish species, including Chinook and Coho Salmon, Steelhead, Sturgeon, Lingcod, and Rockfish. With a commitment to conservation, education, and excellence, Captain Hugh ensures each trip is both successful and memorable. Guests will fish aboard a top-of-the-line 26’ River Wild aluminum fishing boat, built in 2021 for ultimate comfort and performance. Designed specifically for Oregon’s diverse waterways, the boat is powered by a 250HP Yamaha engine, allowing for a smooth, efficient ride to prime fishing spots. Equipped with premium rods, reels, and tackle, as well as state-of-the-art electronics for navigation and fish-finding, this vessel provides the perfect platform for an unforgettable fishing adventure. Whether battling Salmon in the Columbia River or chasing Lingcod off the Oregon Coast, Captain Hugh’s boat is ready to get you on the fish in style and safety.

Captain Hugh Harris & True North Outdoors

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Things To Do in Oregon

Oregon Fishing License

Coho vs. Chinook Salmon Fishing: What’s the Difference?

Common Questions: What types of fishing trips does True North Outdoors offer?True North Outdoors provides a variety of guided fishing adventures, including trips targeting Chinook Salmon, Coho Salmon, Lingcod, and Black Rockfish. Depending on the season, you can choose from river fishing on the Willamette and Columbia Rivers or ocean fishing along the Oregon Coast. Each trip is designed to offer a memorable experience for anglers of all skill levels. Who is Captain Hugh?Captain Hugh is the owner and operator of True North Outdoors. He is a USCG-licensed, insured, and bonded guide with a lifelong passion for fishing and the outdoors. Raised by a fisheries biologist father, he has a deep respect for Pacific Northwest fisheries and conservation. With years of experience, Captain Hugh is dedicated to providing exceptional fishing experiences. What is the Buoy 10 Fishery?The Buoy 10 Fishery refers to the area at the mouth of the Columbia River, known for its abundant runs of Chinook and Coho Salmon during August and September. Often called "The Super Bowl of Salmon Fishing," this is one of the most anticipated fisheries in the Pacific Northwest. True North Outdoors offers guided trips during this peak season, providing anglers with an opportunity to experience this renowned fishery. What equipment is provided on a True North Outdoors fishing trip?True North Outdoors supplies all necessary fishing gear, including rods, reels, tackle, and custom-tied lures. Their 26-foot River Wild aluminum fishing boat is fully equipped to ensure a comfortable and successful fishing experience. Anglers are encouraged to bring personal items such as weather-appropriate clothing, hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Do I need a fishing license for trips with True North Outdoors?Yes, all anglers are required to have a valid Oregon fishing license and appropriate tags for specific species. Licenses and tags should be obtained prior to the trip and are available through the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW). If you have any questions about licensing, Captain Hugh is available to assist. Are children allowed on fishing trips?Absolutely! True North Outdoors welcomes anglers of all ages and skill levels. Captain Hugh is committed to providing a family-friendly environment and offers child-sized life vests upon request. Introducing children to fishing can be a rewarding experience, fostering a lifelong appreciation for the outdoors. How can I book a trip with True North Outdoors?Booking a trip is straightforward. You can visit the True North Outdoors website and navigate to the "Book Trip" section to view available dates and trip options. For personalized assistance or specific inquiries, feel free to contact Captain Hugh directly through the contact information provided on the website What measures are in place for safety and conservation?Safety is a top priority at True North Outdoors. Captain Hugh maintains his vessel to the highest standards and ensures all safety equipment is up-to-date. As a steward of the environment, he practices and promotes sustainable fishing methods, adhering to all regulations to conserve fish populations for future generations. What types of fish can you catch with True North Outdoors in Oregon?With True North Outdoors, you can target a variety of sought-after species throughout the year, including Chinook and Coho Salmon in the Willamette and Columbia Rivers, as well as Lingcod and Rockfish on ocean trips along the Oregon Coast. Seasonal opportunities allow for diverse fishing experiences, whether trolling for Salmon or bottom fishing for aggressive deep-water species. What should I bring on my fishing trip with True North Outdoors?﻿For a successful trip, bring weather-appropriate clothing, including waterproof layers, sunglasses, a hat, and non-spray sunscreen. You’ll also need a valid Oregon fishing license and any required tags for your targeted species. Snacks and drinks are recommended to keep you comfortable, and if you plan to keep your catch, bring a cooler for easy transport.

A fisherman with a big catch at an unknown location

Four anglers with a small fish during a fishing trip

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