Upper Columbia Guided Fishing with Capt. Jack
Private Trip
River Fishing
Expertguided Rainbow Trout fishing on Columbia River watersTarget Brook, Cutthroat, and Rainbow Trout speciesSingleangler expedition with Captain Jack's professional guidance
The Upper Columbia River offers some of the most consistent trout fishing you'll find in the Pacific Northwest, and Captain Jack knows every productive riffle, deep pool, and undercut bank along this storied waterway. This top-rated guided fishing experience puts you one-on-one with a seasoned pro who's been working these waters for decades. You'll be targeting three of the region's most prized trout species in their native habitat, where cold, clear water creates perfect conditions for healthy fish populations. Whether you're a seasoned angler looking to dial in your technique or someone ready to graduate from pond fishing to river action, this personalized trip delivers the kind of focused attention that makes all the difference on the water.
Captain Jack runs a no-nonsense operation that's all about putting you on fish. This single-angler format means every cast, every drift, and every hookset gets his full attention. You'll launch early when the fish are most active, working upstream through classic Columbia River habitat where trout hold in predictable lies. The captain provides all tackle, though you're welcome to bring your favorite rod if you've got one you trust. Expect to cover water methodically, reading current seams and learning to identify the subtle differences between a rock on the bottom and a fish taking your fly or lure. The boat stays mobile, hitting multiple spots based on conditions and what the fish are telling you. Don't worry about bringing snacks – this trip focuses on maximizing your time with a line in the water during prime feeding windows.
The Upper Columbia responds best to traditional river tactics that Captain Jack has refined over years of guiding here. You'll likely be working with both fly fishing setups and conventional spinning gear, depending on conditions and your comfort level. Nymphing through deeper runs produces consistent results, especially with stonefly patterns and small mayfly imitations that match the river's prolific insect life. When fish are rising, dry fly action can be world-class, with Adams patterns and PMD imitations being customer favorites during summer months. For spin fishing, small spinners and spoons work well in faster water, while soft plastics excel in the deeper holes where big trout often hold. The captain carries a full arsenal of terminal tackle sized for Columbia River conditions – think 4X to 6X tippet for flies, and 6-8 pound test for spinning setups. You'll learn to read water like a local, identifying the current breaks and depth changes where trout consistently feed.
Rainbow Trout are the bread and butter of Columbia River fishing, and these aren't your typical stocked rainbows. Wild Columbia rainbows average 12-16 inches but can push well over 20 inches, with broad shoulders and the kind of fight that'll test your drag system. They're most active during morning and evening hours, rising aggressively to mayfly and caddis hatches from May through September. What makes these fish special is their tendency to jump repeatedly when hooked, often clearing the water three or four times in spectacular fashion. They feed heavily on aquatic insects year-round, making them accessible to both fly and spin anglers who know how to present offerings naturally in the current.
Cutthroat Trout represent the native royalty of these waters, and hooking one always feels like connecting with the river's wild heritage. These fish are renowned for their aggressive strikes and their willingness to take larger flies and lures than other trout species. Columbia River cutthroat typically run 10-18 inches, with distinctive red slashes under their jaws that become more pronounced during spawning season in spring. They're opportunistic feeders that won't hesitate to smash a grasshopper pattern or chase down a streamer, making them favorites among anglers who prefer more active fishing techniques. Peak cutthroat action happens from June through October when water temperatures are optimal and terrestrial insects are most abundant.
Brook Trout in the Columbia system are typically found in the cooler tributary mouths and spring-fed areas where Captain Jack knows to look for them. These beautiful fish rarely exceed 14 inches, but their vibrant colors and delicate fins make every brook trout a trophy worth photographing. They're most active during cooler parts of the day and respond well to small flies and lures presented with finesse. Fall brings out the best brook trout colors as they prepare for spawning, with males developing pronounced breeding hooks and brilliant orange bellies. While they're less common than rainbows and cutthroat, landing a Columbia River brook trout represents a special moment that many anglers remember for years.
Captain Jack's Upper Columbia guided fishing trips consistently rank among the best fishing experiences in the region, and the single-angler format means availability stays limited throughout the season. The personalized instruction, prime river access, and proven track record for putting clients on quality trout make this a customer favorite that books up quickly during peak months. You'll walk away with improved skills, better understanding of river fishing tactics, and memories of a day spent on one of the Northwest's most productive trout waters. Just remember to secure your valid fishing license before the trip – Washington State requires it for all anglers over 15. Ready to experience why the Upper Columbia keeps anglers coming back year after year? Give Captain Jack a call and claim your spot for what could be your best day of trout fishing this season.
Salvelinus FontinalisBrook trout are the gems of our smaller tributaries - stunning fish with olive backs, yellow spots, and those signature red spots ringed in blue. Most run 8-14 inches, but don't let size fool you - they're scrappy fighters. These fish need cold, clean water below 68°F, so you'll find them in the higher elevation streams and spring-fed areas. Fall is peak season when they're spawning and more aggressive. What makes brookies special is their beauty and the remote locations where you'll find them. They're also some of the best eating trout around. These fish are spooky and prefer tight cover like fallen trees and deep pools. Here's the key: approach quiet and low, then work small flies or tiny spinners right into their hideouts. They won't move far for a meal, so precise placement beats flashy presentations every time.
Oncorhynchus ClarkiiCutthroats are our native beauties, easily spotted by those distinctive red slash marks under their jaw. These fish range from 8-16 inches in our waters, preferring the cleaner, well-oxygenated sections with rocky bottoms. They're ambush feeders that love hanging around structure - fallen logs, undercut banks, and vegetation where they can dart out at prey. Spring and fall are your best bets when water temps drop and they're more active. What guests love about cutthroats is their aggressive strike and the fact you're catching a true native species. They're also fantastic eating. These fish are picky about water quality, so finding them means you're in pristine habitat. My go-to trick is working small nymphs and dry flies tight to cover - they won't chase far, but they'll hammer a well-placed presentation.
Oncorhynchus MykissRainbow trout are the Columbia's bread and butter fish, running 12-20 inches and averaging 2-6 pounds. You'll find them in the cooler depths during summer, moving to gravelly shorelines and current breaks when feeding. These fish love the 55-65°F water temps we get here, and they're strong fighters known for their acrobatic jumps. Spring through early summer is prime time when they're actively feeding on insects. What makes them special is that beautiful pink stripe and their willingness to hit both flies and lures. They're excellent table fare too with that mild, nutty flavor. Pro tip: fish the evening bite when they move shallow to feed - that's when we see the most action on dry flies and small spinners.
Ellensburg, WA