Sturgeon Fishing Columbia River - 8-Hour Charter
Shared Trip
River Fishing
Target white sturgeon, North America's largest freshwater fishEighthour shared charter departing weekends at 7 AMAll gear provided, catchandrelease conservation fishing
Picture this: you're anchored on the Columbia River near Rainier, Oregon, and your rod suddenly doubles over as something massive takes your bait. That "something" could be a 200-pound white sturgeon—North America's largest freshwater fish. Jesse's Guide Service runs these shared 8-hour charters every Saturday and Sunday, departing at 7 AM sharp. It's just you, one other angler, and Captain Jesse hunting these prehistoric giants in some of the most productive sturgeon water on the West Coast. We're talking catch-and-release only here, which keeps the fishery healthy and ensures future generations can experience what you're about to feel.
Your day starts early at the Rainier boat launch, just a short drive from Astoria. Jesse provides all the heavy-duty gear you'll need—and trust me, you want the good stuff when you're targeting fish that can live over 100 years and weigh more than you do. We're talking premium rods with serious backbone, reels with smooth drag systems, and tackle designed specifically for Columbia River sturgeon. The boat heads to proven holes where these bottom-dwellers cruise the deeper channels, often in 30-60 feet of water. You'll spend most of your time anchored up, feeling for those telltale taps and runs that signal a sturgeon has found your bait. The shared charter format keeps costs reasonable while still giving you plenty of room to fight these fish properly. With only two anglers aboard, you're not elbow-to-elbow with a crowd—just pure fishing focus.
Sturgeon fishing is all about patience and heavy tackle. We use sliding sinker rigs with 8-12 ounce weights to hold bottom in the Columbia's current, paired with circle hooks and fresh bait. Jesse knows which holes are producing and adjusts techniques based on tide, current, and recent catch reports. The key is keeping your bait right on the bottom where sturgeon feed, and being ready when they decide to cooperate. These fish don't always announce themselves—sometimes it starts as a gentle tap-tap-tap before your rod nearly gets yanked out of the holder. The fighting technique is crucial: pump and wind, use the fish's momentum against them, and be prepared for multiple runs. A big sturgeon can take 20-30 minutes to bring to the boat, and Jesse will be right there coaching you through every step. Don't worry about bringing your own gear—the provided rods and reels are specifically chosen for this fishery and maintained to handle whatever the Columbia throws at you.
White sturgeon are the undisputed kings of Columbia River fishing, and for good reason. These living dinosaurs can reach lengths over 12 feet and weights exceeding 500 pounds, though most fish you'll encounter run 3-8 feet long. What makes them special isn't just their size—it's their fight. A sturgeon doesn't give up easily. They'll make multiple runs, sometimes jumping completely out of the water, testing both your tackle and your endurance. Peak season runs from late spring through early fall, with summer months offering the most consistent action. Water temperature plays a huge role in their feeding behavior, and Jesse tracks these patterns religiously. The Columbia River population is one of the healthiest in the Pacific Northwest, thanks to strict catch-and-release regulations and habitat protection efforts. When you hook into a fish that might be older than your grandparents, it puts things in perspective. These sturgeon have survived ice ages, dam construction, and decades of fishing pressure. The fact that we can still target healthy populations speaks to the success of conservation efforts and the importance of responsible angling practices.
This top-rated Columbia River sturgeon charter fills up fast, especially during peak summer months when conditions are most favorable. With only two spots available per trip, you're getting a semi-private experience at a shared charter price. Remember to secure your Oregon fishing license and Columbia River endorsement before your trip—Jesse can help you figure out what's needed, but it's easier to handle online beforehand. Pack layers since river conditions can change quickly, bring snacks for the long day, and don't forget your camera for those mandatory catch photos. The 8-hour format gives you real time to connect with these giants, not just a quick taste. Whether you're a seasoned angler looking to check sturgeon off your bucket list or someone ready to step up from trout fishing, this Columbia River adventure delivers the kind of fishing stories you'll be telling for years. Jesse's Guide Service has built a reputation on putting clients on fish while maintaining the highest safety and conservation standards. Book your weekend spot now and get ready to test your skills against North America's largest freshwater fish.
Your fishing platform for this Columbia River sturgeon adventure is a well-built 24-foot North River boat that handles these big waters with confidence. Designed specifically for serious angling, she's got room for six but keeps groups intimate for better fishing action. The wireless trolling motor lets you position quietly over prime sturgeon holes without spooking fish, while the GPS keeps you on productive spots and the fish finder shows what's moving below. When those legendary Columbia River white sturgeon hit your bait, you'll appreciate having a stable deck under your feet and quality gear in your hands. This boat's built for the long haul of an 8-hour charter, with enough space to fight fish properly and stay comfortable between bites. Everything's set up for catch-and-release fishing that protects these ancient giants while giving you the full experience of tangling with North America's largest freshwater fish.
Astoria