Columbia River
Oregon · river · approx 45.60, -121.80
Located in Oregon, Columbia River is classified as a river with approximate coordinates 45.600, -121.800. Sturgeon and salmon. Anglers target Sturgeon, Salmon here, and the links below open the regulations, stocking, and license details you need for a compliant trip.
About this water
Sturgeon and salmon.
Fishing characteristics
As a river, Columbia River is shaped by current, clarity, and flow. Species use seams, eddies, and slack water, and dam releases or rainfall can quickly change where fish hold.
Target species
- Sturgeon — Sturgeon are ancient, armored bottom fish of large rivers and bays, often catch-and-release trophies.
- Salmon — Salmon are anadromous gamefish that run from the ocean into rivers to spawn; tactics vary by species and run.
Access notes
River access at Columbia River ranges from wade-in banks and bridges to boat ramps; check flow, private-property boundaries, and put-in and take-out points. Confirm current access, any required permits, and local closures with Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) before you travel.
Applicable regulations
Oregon size/bag limits, seasons, and gear rules apply to this water.
View Oregon license & limits →
Print a compliance checklist (PDF) →
Waterbody-specific rules
No special waterbody-specific regulation is on file for Columbia River. It is governed by the general Oregon fishing regulations (statewide size/bag limits, seasons, and gear rules). Always confirm with the state agency before fishing.
View Oregon license & limits →
Print a compliance checklist (PDF) →
Stocking notes
Stocking totals for Oregon are pending verification. See the Oregon stocking profile →
More public waters in Oregon
Plan beyond Columbia River. These public waters are also in Oregon and fall under the same state rules.
Planning your trip to Columbia River
A valid Oregon fishing license is generally required to fish public waters — buy it from Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) before you go, and check seasonal closures and any gear restrictions for river waters. The links above open the official Oregon license, limits, and stocking pages.
When to fish Columbia River
Rivers fish best with stable, clear flows; spring runoff and dam releases change conditions fast.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a license to fish Columbia River?
Public waters in Oregon generally require a state fishing license for anyone past the minimum age; check Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) for exact rules and any free-fishing days.
What species can I target here?
This water is associated with Sturgeon, Salmon.