Columbia River Sturgeon Fishing | Josh Sutch Guide

Columbia River Sturgeon: 8-Hour Private Trip

Ready for a shot at landing one of the Columbia's prehistoric giants? Our 8-hour private sturgeon trip out of Astoria puts you right in the heart of some of Oregon's best sturgeon fishing. We're talking massive fish that can stretch longer than your boat, with the fight to match. Whether you're a seasoned angler or it's your first time chasing these river monsters, our guides know every bend and hole where these bottom-dwellers like to hang out. Pack your camera and get ready for some serious rod-bending action!

What to Expect on the Water

We'll meet you bright and early at the Astoria marina, where your guide will have the boat prepped and ready to go. After a quick safety rundown, we'll hit the water and make our way to some prime sturgeon spots. The Columbia's a big river, but we know where these fish like to hang out. You'll be using heavy-duty tackle designed to handle these powerful fish – we're talking stout rods, braided line, and circle hooks baited up with fresh offerings that sturgeon can't resist. Your guide will show you the ropes on how to detect those subtle bites and set the hook just right. When a sturgeon decides to run, hold on tight! These fish are known for their acrobatic leaps and powerful fights that can last up to an hour for the big ones. It's catch-and-release for these prehistoric fish, so we'll make sure to get you some great photos before sending them back to fight another day.

Sturgeon Fishing 101

Sturgeon fishing is all about patience and reading the river. We'll be anchoring up in deeper holes where these bottom-feeders like to cruise. Your guide will set you up with a rig that's designed to keep your bait right in the strike zone – usually a sliding sinker setup with a leader and a circle hook. We'll be using fresh bait like salmon roe, sand shrimp, or even chunks of lamprey – whatever's working best that day. The bite can be subtle, sometimes just a light tap or a slow pull. That's where your guide comes in, helping you recognize when it's time to set the hook. Once hooked, it's all about managing the fight. Sturgeon are known for their powerful runs and even jumping clear out of the water. You'll be using heavy-duty gear, but it's still a test of skill and endurance to bring one of these giants boatside. Don't worry if you're new to this – your guide will be right there coaching you through every step of the fight.

Target Species Breakdown

The star of the show on this trip is the white sturgeon, and let me tell you, these aren't your average fish. White sturgeon are living fossils, virtually unchanged for over 200 million years. They're the largest freshwater fish in North America, with some monsters in the Columbia reaching lengths of over 10 feet and weights pushing 1,000 pounds. Now, the really big ones are protected, but we regularly hook into fish in the 3-6 foot range that'll give you the fight of your life. These fish are bottom-feeders, using their vacuum-like mouths to suck up food from the river bed. They've got a great sense of smell, which is why using fresh, stinky bait is key.

Sturgeon are slow-growing and can live for over 100 years, which is why we practice strict catch-and-release to protect the population. The best time to target them is usually spring through fall, with some of the biggest fish showing up in the early season as they move upriver to spawn. What makes sturgeon so exciting to catch, besides their size, is their fighting style. They'll often make several powerful runs, and then when you think you've got them beat, they'll leap completely out of the water in a spectacular display. It's a sight you won't soon forget, and it's why anglers from all over the world come to the Columbia for a chance at these river giants.

Why Anglers Keep Coming Back

There's something special about sturgeon fishing on the Columbia that keeps folks coming back year after year. Maybe it's the thrill of never knowing just how big the next fish might be. Or the way time seems to stand still when you're locked in a battle with a fish that could be older than your grandparents. Our repeat customers often talk about how each trip is a new adventure – the river's always changing, and so are the fish. Plus, there's just something about being out on the water, surrounded by the stunning scenery of the Pacific Northwest, that feeds the soul. Whether you're here for the fishing, the views, or just to disconnect from the daily grind for a while, a day chasing sturgeon on the Columbia is hard to beat.

Time to Book Your Spot

If you're itching to test your skills against some of the biggest, baddest fish swimming in freshwater, our 8-hour private sturgeon trip is calling your name. We provide all the gear and expertise – you just need to bring your sense of adventure and maybe a few snacks for the day. Remember, we're limited to just two anglers per trip, so you'll get plenty of one-on-one time with your guide to hone your skills. These trips fill up fast, especially during peak season, so don't wait to lock in your date. Give us a call or book online, and get ready for a fishing experience you'll be talking about for years to come. Just a heads up – deposits are non-refundable, but trust us, once you're out there battling a monster sturgeon, you'll be glad you committed. See you on the river!