5.0(3 Reviews)Washington Fishing Charter | Milton Free-Water
5.0(3 reviews)
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
4hour inshore fishing charter with expert Captain Elmer Hill25 years guiding experience ensures quality catches for all levelsSmall group capacity of 2 guests for personalized fishing experience
When you're looking for a solid day on the water in Milton Free-Water, Oregon, Captain Elmer Hill's 4-hour fishing charter delivers exactly what you'd expect from a seasoned guide with 25 years under his belt. This isn't your typical tourist trap – it's a legitimate fishing operation that puts you on fish while keeping things comfortable for up to 2 anglers. Whether you're chasing blue catfish or hoping to land some Atlantic salmon, Elmer knows these waters like the back of his hand and isn't shy about sharing what works.
You'll meet Captain Elmer bright and early, ready to hit the prime fishing spots while the fish are still active. This 4-hour window gives you plenty of time to work different techniques without feeling rushed, but it's focused enough that you're not sitting around wondering when the action will pick up. Elmer runs a tight operation – his boat is clean, well-maintained, and equipped with everything you need to put fish in the boat. The Columbia River system around Milton Free-Water offers some seriously productive water, and Elmer's spent decades learning every bend, drop-off, and current break that holds fish. You'll spend your time moving between proven spots, adjusting tactics based on what the fish are telling you that day. The beauty of a smaller group size means Elmer can give you real attention – no fighting for rod space or waiting your turn to get help with technique.
Elmer's approach combines old-school knowledge with modern gear that actually works. For catfish, you'll be working bottom rigs with fresh bait, targeting the deeper holes and current seams where these fish like to hold up during the day. He's got the tackle dialed in – heavy enough to handle big fish but sensitive enough that you'll feel every bump and tap. When you're after salmon, expect to be trolling or casting lures that mimic the baitfish these fish are keyed in on. Elmer reads the water constantly, adjusting depth and speed based on what he's seeing on the electronics and what the conditions are doing. The rod selection is spot-on for each technique, and he'll walk you through the setup so you understand what you're doing and why. If you're new to this style of fishing, he'll get you comfortable with the gear quickly. If you know your way around a rod and reel, he'll let you work and offer tips that can make the difference between a good day and a great one.
"Captain Elmer made our fishing excursion unforgettable! His passion for the ocean and dedication to finding the best spots for sturgeon and catfish are truly commendable." - Sarah "Captain Elmer took us on an amazing fishing trip! His knowledge of the best spots for catching sturgeon and catfish was impressive. We had a blast and can't wait to book another trip with him." - Harry "An exceptional day on the water with Captain Elmer Hill. The 8-hour trip targeting walleye, salmon, and shad was a blast. Elmer's guidance and the Alumaweld Columbia made it a memorable adventure." - Heartwell
Blue catfish are the heavyweight champions of these waters, and for good reason – they fight hard and grow big in the Columbia River system. These fish are opportunistic feeders that patrol the deeper channels and slack water areas, especially during the warmer months when they're most active. What makes blue cats so exciting is their size potential and the way they fight. A decent blue cat will test your drag and make multiple runs, and the bigger ones can really put a bend in your rod. They're not picky eaters, but Elmer knows exactly what they're hitting and where to find them holding. The best action typically happens from late spring through early fall, when water temperatures are right and these fish are feeding aggressively. Landing a solid blue cat is one of those experiences that keeps anglers coming back – they're strong, they're smart, and they don't give up easy.
Atlantic salmon bring a completely different energy to the day, with their acrobatic fights and the technical challenge of getting them to bite. These fish are built for speed and endurance, spending their lives in strong current and open water. When you hook into a salmon, you'll know it immediately – they'll often jump multiple times and make blistering runs that'll have your reel screaming. The timing matters with salmon, as they move through these waters following their food sources and responding to seasonal patterns. Elmer tracks these movements and adjusts his approach accordingly, whether that means changing lure colors, adjusting trolling speeds, or moving to different parts of the river system. What makes salmon so addictive is the combination of their fighting ability and the skill required to consistently catch them. They're not always easy, but when everything comes together and you're connected to a strong salmon in good current, it's the kind of fishing that reminds you why you got into this sport in the first place.
Captain Elmer's 4-hour charter gives you a real taste of what quality fishing looks like in the Milton Free-Water area. With his quarter-century of experience and genuine commitment to putting his anglers on fish, you're getting the kind of guided trip that delivers both fish and knowledge. The 2-angler limit means you're not just another face in the crowd – you'll get personalized instruction, proven techniques, and access to spots that produce consistently. Whether you're looking to target blue catfish, chase some salmon, or just spend a morning on the water with someone who knows how to find fish, this charter checks all the boxes. Book your spot now and get ready for some serious fishing with one of the area's most respected guides.
Captain Elmer Hill's 2016 26FT Alumaweld Columbia is built for serious fishing on Oregon's waters. This reliable aluminum boat cuts through the waves at up to 45 knots, getting you to the best fishing spots fast. The onboard fish finder takes the guesswork out of locating your targets, while GPS keeps you on course to productive waters. An icebox keeps your catch fresh and drinks cold during those hot afternoon bites. With space for just 2 anglers, you'll get personalized attention from Captain Hill, who's been guiding these waters for 25 years. The Columbia's sturdy construction handles Pacific conditions with ease, whether you're chasing salmon, lingcod, or rockfish. This fishing machine gets you out to where the fish are biting and back to the dock safely.
Salmo SalarAtlantic salmon run 28-30 inches and 8-12 pounds, with that classic silver shine and forked tail. Unlike Pacific salmon, these fish can spawn multiple times, making each one a true survivor. They start life in freshwater, head to the ocean for 2-3 years, then return to spawn. The fight is legendary - they'll leap and run like nothing else in these waters. Unfortunately, wild Atlantic salmon are protected here due to population concerns, so we focus on other species during our charters. When they were fishable, the swing technique worked best - cast downstream at 45 degrees and let your fly work the current. The meat quality made them a prized catch, with that rich orange flesh that's hard to beat.
Ictalurus FurcatusBlue cats are the giants of North American catfish, averaging 25-46 inches and often hitting 80+ pounds. You'll spot their slate-blue bodies and that distinctive squared-off anal fin that sets them apart from channel cats. These opportunistic feeders love deep holes with muddy bottoms near tidal creeks, following the water movement throughout the day. They're absolutely fearless hunters - crawfish, frogs, baitfish, pretty much anything that moves becomes dinner. The fight is solid and steady, and the meat is excellent eating. Best fishing happens during moving tides when they're actively hunting. My go-to trick? Fresh-cut herring on the bottom and wait for that second tap before setting the hook. They're cautious but once they commit, you're in for a battle.
5.0 out of 5.0Captain Elmer made our fishing excursion unforgettable! His passion for the ocean and dedication to finding the best spots for stu...
Captain Elmer took us on an amazing fishing trip! His knowledge of the best spots for catching sturgeon and catfish was impressive...
An exceptional day on the water with Captain Elmer Hill. The 8-hour trip targeting walleye, salmon, and shad was a blast. Elmer's ...
Columbia River