Pursuing the Big One: Fishing for Walleye in the Columbia
Pursuing the Big One: Fishing for Walleye in the Columbia River
The majority of anglers know that walleye are best in the Midwest and Eastern regions. However, walleye are gradually making the Western waters their home. These days, some of the best fishing reservoirs are found here, producing trophy-sized walleye and offering anglers endless fishing opportunities. This is because many of these locations are virtually undiscovered and therefore untouched by walleye fans. This makes Columbia River an excellent location to fish for walleye.
According to A. Steven Payne, who writes for a website dedicated to fishing, trophy-sized walleye fished from the Columbia River don't weigh in at just 10 or 12 lbs. Here in this river that snakes between Washington and Oregon, walleye frequently reach a good 15 lbs.
Walleye are also spread across from one shore to the next and will be excellent for beginner anglers or those who aren't looking for trophy fish. For the more competitive ones, guides can point to locations known for producing walleye you'll be proud to be seen in a photo with. Currently, the walleye record in Washington is over 18 lbs. In Oregon, it's at 19 lbs., 15 oz.
Incredibly enough, a few years back, walleye weren't measured and were largely ignored due to the popularity of other fish species such as the smallmouth and largemouth bass, steelhead, sturgeon and Chinook salmon. These days, however, that has begun to change.
Where to fish for walleye in the Columbia River
A great place to start both for beginner and experienced anglers is the area below the McNary Dam. This was where the biggest walleye in Washington was caught. Big walleye frequent this location.
Simply keep the dam to your left and start fishing on the water directly on your right side. If current is too strong, look for an area behind the dam where the current is milder. Walleye frequent the area above the shelves mid-river.
Another dam you can try is the John Day Dam, whether you're coming from Oregon or from Washington. Find the bridge just after Highway 97. This is where a nice population of walleye like to congregate. Do this in daytime if you're a beginner. If you're highly skilled and experienced, a nighttime fishing adventure in this area will yield great results.
Miller Island is also an excellent spot. The island splits the river in two. On the northern side, you will find a channel where walleye also come in large schools. Another great location is Boulder Alley, if you have the time and the patience. This area is rock-strewn and quite a challenge to work but big walleye are frequently found here.
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