Columbia River Fishing Guides offers guided fishing trips throughout Washington and Oregon, led by Christian Witt and based in Kalama. The business targets salmon, steelhead, sturgeon, and kokanee across the Columbia River and its tributaries, fishing from Bonneville Dam all the way to Buoy 10 near Astoria, where the Columbia meets the Pacific Ocean.
The seasonal calendar runs nearly year-round: Columbia River sturgeon in May and June, Columbia River spring Chinook from March through May, Columbia River fall Chinook in August and September, Lewis River spring Chinook in April and May, Lewis River fall Chinook from September through December, Lewis River steelhead in summer and winter, and Cowlitz River steelhead in both winter and summer windows. Buoy 10 is highlighted as one of the hottest fisheries in the world, known for fast-paced, high-energy salmon fishing as fish stage before heading upriver.
The fleet includes five 24-foot Alumaweld boats that comfortably seat up to six clients, along with a recently added custom 31-foot open guide sled for larger groups or rougher conditions. Every trip includes G-Loomis rods, Shimano reels, and all bait, giving guests access to some of the best gear available without needing to bring their own. Guides share hands-on knowledge of the river’s techniques, productive depths, and hot spots throughout the trip.
Reviews consistently highlight the guides’ passion, professionalism, and ability to deliver a memorable day on the water, even for anglers flying in from out of state for a single day of fishing. A minimum $100 per-person deposit, payable online via PayPal or credit card, secures a booking, and the business is set up to welcome elderly and handicapped guests.
For anglers looking to fish salmon, steelhead, sturgeon, or kokanee across the Columbia River system with an experienced, well-equipped guide service, Columbia River Fishing Guides offers a five-boat fleet covering some of the Pacific Northwest’s most productive fisheries out of Kalama.
