Tight Lines Northwest Guide Service

Spend the day on the water with Capt. Ashton Haight, local expert and owner of Tight Lines Northwest Guide Service, where the Cowlitz River and surrounding Washington waters become your playground for salmon and steelhead action. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just learning how to hold a rod without poking your fishing buddy in the eye, Ashton’s got your back.

He’s not just here to put you on fish—though yes, you will be chasing Chinook, Coho, and Steelhead—he’s here to make sure you enjoy every minute. The rivers he guides on (think: Cowlitz, Columbia, Kalama, Lewis, and Chehalis) are some of the best fisheries in the Pacific Northwest, especially when those salmon runs are hot and the steelhead are biting.

Your adventure starts aboard a 21' Alumaweld SuperVee Pro, a reliable fishing machine with room for up to 5 passengers. It’s perfect for solo fishers, couples, or families looking to unplug and trade screen time for reel time. Ashton provides the rods, reels, and lures—just bring your license, snacks, and good vibes.

Kids are welcome too! Just let Ashton know ahead of time if you need child-sized life vests. It’s the kind of trip that creates core memories—whether it’s their first cast or their first fish. And yep, snacks and drinks are a must. Water and sunscreen (non-spray kind) are also key. You can bring other drinks too—just keep it chill and leave the glass and hard stuff at home.

Depending on the time of year, you could be targeting Spring Chinook, Summer Steelhead, or the legendary Coho runs. You’ll likely use spinning tackle or troll heavier gear to match conditions. Either way, Ashton’s deep knowledge of river currents, run timing, and technique will help put you in the right place at the right time.

Tight Lines Northwest trips are not just about fishing—they’re about enjoying what the Cowlitz River and its surroundings offer: crisp mornings, steady lines, and the buzz of reeling in something big. So whether you're chasing that bucket list Chinook or simply want to enjoy a quiet, productive day on the river, Capt. Ashton delivers.

Ready to fish the legendary Cowlitz and beyond? Book your trip today and see why anglers come back to fish with Tight Lines Northwest year after year.