Columbia River Sturgeon Fishing | Josh Sutch Guide

Sturgeon Fishing on the Mighty Columbia

Ready to tangle with prehistoric giants? Josh Sutch Guide Service has you covered with our private Sturgeon fishing charters on the Columbia River. We'll put you on the fish for a full 8 hours, departing right from Astoria, Oregon. Whether you're a seasoned angler or it's your first time wetting a line, we've got the know-how and gear to make your day on the water unforgettable. Our focus is on Lake Sturgeon, those living fossils that can grow to mammoth proportions. We practice catch-and-release to keep the population thriving, so bring your camera to capture the memories!

What to Expect on the Water

When you step aboard, you're in for a day of serious fishing action. We'll cruise out onto the Columbia, where the backdrop of rugged Pacific Northwest scenery sets the stage for your Sturgeon adventure. Our expert guides know these waters like the back of their hand, and we'll use every trick in the book to put you on the fish. You'll learn the art of bottom fishing, feeling for that telltale bump that signals a Sturgeon has found your bait. When you hook up, hold on tight – these prehistoric powerhouses can give you the fight of your life. And don't worry about bringing gear; we've got top-notch rods, reels, and bait all ready to go. Just bring your game face and maybe a cooler for snacks and drinks.

Sturgeon Fishing 101

Fishing for Sturgeon isn't your average day on the lake. These bottom-dwellers require some specialized techniques. We typically use heavy-duty rods and reels spooled with braided line to handle the weight and power of these fish. Our go-to setup involves a sliding sinker rig with a circle hook, baited with fresh squid, shad, or salmon eggs – whatever the Sturgeon are biting on that day. We'll anchor up in likely holding spots, often near deep holes or along channel edges where Sturgeon like to hang out. Patience is key; sometimes you're in for a waiting game, but when that rod doubles over, you'll be glad you stuck it out. The fight can be intense, with Sturgeon known for their powerful runs and even spectacular jumps. It's all catch-and-release, so we'll make sure you get a quick photo before sending these magnificent fish back to fight another day.

Species You'll Want to Hook

The star of the show on our Columbia River charters is the Lake Sturgeon, and boy, are they something special. These living fossils have been around since the time of the dinosaurs, and they look the part with their armored plates and shark-like tails. They can grow to truly massive sizes, with some specimens topping 10 feet and weighing over 300 pounds. The average catch is more modest, typically in the 3-6 foot range, but still impressive enough to get your heart racing. Sturgeon are slow-growing and long-lived, with some individuals believed to be over 100 years old. They're bottom feeders, using their extendable mouths to vacuum up small fish, shellfish, and other goodies from the river bed. The best time to target them is usually from late spring through early fall when the water warms up and they become more active. Anglers love Sturgeon for their sheer size and the epic battles they put up – it's not uncommon for a fight to last 30 minutes or more. Plus, there's just something awe-inspiring about coming face-to-face with a creature that's been swimming these waters since before your great-grandparents were born.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

Folks who fish with Josh Sutch Guide Service tend to get hooked themselves. It's not just about the fish – though let's be honest, those Sturgeon are pretty darn impressive. It's the whole package. You've got the stunning scenery of the Columbia River Gorge as your backdrop, the wealth of knowledge our guides bring to the table, and the thrill of potentially landing a fish bigger than you are. We keep our trips small and personalized, with a max of two guests per charter. That means you get plenty of one-on-one attention and the flexibility to tailor the day to your preferences. Whether you're looking to hone your Sturgeon fishing skills or just want to spend a relaxing day on the water with a shot at a monster fish, we've got you covered. And let's not forget the stories you'll have to tell – there's nothing like describing the battle with a 6-foot Sturgeon to make your fishing buddies jealous.

Time to Book Your Spot

If you're itching to test your mettle against the mighty Sturgeon of the Columbia River, now's the time to lock in your date. Our private charters book up fast, especially during peak season. Remember, we're talking about a full 8 hours on the water, giving you plenty of time to find the fish and hopefully land a few monsters. We provide all the gear you need, so all you have to bring is your sense of adventure (and maybe a sandwich or two). Keep in mind that deposits are non-refundable, so make sure you're good to go before you book. But trust us, once you feel that first Sturgeon on the line, you'll be glad you made the commitment. So what are you waiting for? Give Josh Sutch Guide Service a call and let's get you out on the Columbia for a Sturgeon fishing experience you won't forget. Who knows? You might just end up with the fish story of a lifetime.