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Guides > Captain Hugh Harris

True North Outdoors

Portland OR

True North Outdoors
True North Outdoors
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Guidesly Guarantee

Excellent

(24 reviews)

5

Your Captain

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Hugh Harris

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True North Outdoors Fishing Territory
Guides > Captain Hugh Harris

True North Outdoors

locationPortland OR

Guidesly Guarantee
5 24 reviews

Your Captain

guide pic

Hugh Harris

Identity Verified

Hugh Harris, Captain at True North Outdoors

Captain Hugh is the USCG licensed, insured, and bonded owner/operator of True North Outdoors, bringing a lifetime of experience and a deep passion for fishing to every adventure. From an early age, he developed a love for the outdoors, a strong work ethic, and an insatiable curiosity for fishing—values instilled in him by his father, a fisheries biologist. Fishing is more than just a pursuit for Hugh; it’s a way of life that brings endless joy through the challenge of seeking the elusive yet attainable. He finds peace in connecting with the tides and seasons, embracing the rhythms of nature, and immersing himself in the living world. These experiences are meant to be shared, and Hugh is dedicated to helping people of all ages and backgrounds relish, respect, and conserve the incredible resources of the Pacific Northwest.


Beyond guiding fishing adventures, Hugh has been a featured author for Salmon & Steelhead Journal and a host of numerous fishing seminars in the PNW community. As a devoted husband and father of two, he is raising his family to cherish and protect the great outdoors for generations to come. With over 15 years of experience as a healthcare professional serving Oncology patients and families, Hugh brings his commitment to excellence, integrity, safety, and expertise to every trip, ensuring a top-tier experience for his clients both on and off the water.


Fishing with True North Outdoors offers the opportunity to target Chinook Salmon, Coho Salmon, Lingcod, Black Rockfish, and more, depending on the season. Anglers can engage in spinning, trolling, jigging, bottom fishing, and other techniques across Oregon’s coastal waters and Portland’s Willamette Valley. Any legal catch is yours to keep, cleaned and packaged with care to ensure the highest quality for your table—so don’t forget to bring a cooler!


Trips take place aboard a 26’ River Wild aluminum fishing boat, fully equipped with premium rods, reels, tackle, and custom-tied lures. Families and all ages are welcome, with child-sized life vests available upon request. Bringing along snacks is recommended to keep energy levels up during the trip.

All guests must purchase a local fishing license and salmon tag before the trip, available through ODFW or by consulting with Captain Hugh. Some species may have restrictions, so checking regulations in advance is advised.


Book your next adventure with True North Outdoors, and let Captain Hugh share his passion, and love for the outdoors with you!

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Upcoming Availability

July 2025
August 2025

Fishing Techniques

JiggingTrolling FishingLight TackleDeep Sea / Bottom Fishing

What's Included

Keep your Catch

Keep your Catch

This guide offers trips that you are able to take home your catch.

Good to Knows

Good to Knows

Your Guide has some important details about your trip with them.

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Nature / Wildlife Views

Nature / Wildlife Views

This guide offers trips with nature and wildlife views.

Cancellation Policy

Cancellation Policy

When you book your fishing trip, you will need to first put down a deposit to hold the reservation.

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What's Included

Keep your Catch

Keep your Catch

This guide offers trips that you are able to take home your catch.

Good to Knows

Good to Knows

Your Guide has some important details about your trip with them.

Show More

Nature / Wildlife Views

Nature / Wildlife Views

This guide offers trips with nature and wildlife views.

Cancellation Policy

Cancellation Policy

When you book your fishing trip, you will need to first put down a deposit to hold the reservation.

Show More

Trips Available with True North Outdoors

8 HR Shared Buoy 10 Astoria Trip
Best Price Guarantee
8 HR Shared Buoy 10 Astoria TripTop-Rated
8 HR Shared Buoy 10 Astoria TripInstant Booking
8 HR Shared Buoy 10 Astoria TripFishing - River
8 HR Shared Buoy 10 Astoria Trip

True North Outdoors26'River Wild Max 6 guests (base trip price includes 6 guests)

8 HR Shared Buoy 10 Astoria Trip

From August to September, experience the most anticipated salmon fishery in the Pacific Northwest at Buoy 10, Astoria! This legendary fishery marks the arrival of fresh ocean-run Chinook and Coho Salmon as they enter the Columbia River estuary. Known as “The Super Bowl of Salmon Fishing,” this action-packed season offers an unforgettable opportunity to reel in trophy-sized fish. Prime dates fill quickly, so be sure to book your trip and accommodations in advance!

Full Day Trip

8 HR Shared Buoy 10 Astoria TripMaximum 6 persons allowed
(base trip price includes 6 guests)
8 HR Shared Buoy 10 Astoria Trip8 Hours
8 HR Shared Buoy 10 Astoria Trip5:30 AM
$500

Pick Your Date

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8-Hour Fall Salmon Fishing Trip
Best Price Guarantee
8-Hour Fall Salmon Fishing TripTop-Rated
8-Hour Fall Salmon Fishing TripInstant Booking
8-Hour Fall Salmon Fishing TripFishing - River
8-Hour Fall Salmon Fishing Trip

True North Outdoors26'River Wild Max 6 guests (base trip price includes 6 guests)

8-Hour Fall Salmon Fishing Trip

From September to October, follow the massive fall salmon migration up the scenic lower and mid-Columbia River for an action-packed fishing experience. This season is ideal for targeting big Chinook and Coho Salmon using a variety of proven techniques. Depending on conditions, we may also fish the North Coast bays and rivers, where salmon return in strong numbers. Don’t miss this productive and exciting time of year—book your trip today!

Full Day Trip

8-Hour Fall Salmon Fishing TripMaximum 6 persons allowed
(base trip price includes 6 guests)
8-Hour Fall Salmon Fishing Trip8 Hours
8-Hour Fall Salmon Fishing Trip5:30 AM
$500

Pick Your Date

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8-Hour Spring Salmon Fishing Trip
Best Price Guarantee
8-Hour Spring Salmon Fishing TripTop-Rated
8-Hour Spring Salmon Fishing TripInstant Booking
8-Hour Spring Salmon Fishing TripFishing - River
8-Hour Spring Salmon Fishing Trip

True North Outdoors26'River Wild Max 6 guests (base trip price includes 6 guests)

8-Hour Spring Salmon Fishing Trip

From March to July, chase the renowned Spring Chinook, celebrated for their exceptional flavor and rich quality. This season offers an exciting opportunity for both locals and visitors to target these prized fish in the Willamette and Columbia Rivers. Fishing out of the Portland Metro area, we’ll use proven techniques to hook into some of the best-tasting salmon in the Pacific Northwest. Don’t miss out—book your trip today!

Full Day Trip

8-Hour Spring Salmon Fishing TripMaximum 6 persons allowed
(base trip price includes 6 guests)
8-Hour Spring Salmon Fishing Trip8 Hours
8-Hour Spring Salmon Fishing Trip6:00 AM
$500

Pick Your Date

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8 HR Ocean Salmon & Rockfish Trip
8 HR Ocean Salmon & Rockfish TripTop-Rated
8 HR Ocean Salmon & Rockfish TripInstant Booking
8 HR Ocean Salmon & Rockfish TripFishing - River
8 HR Ocean Salmon & Rockfish Trip

True North Outdoors26'River Wild Max 6 guests (base trip price includes 6 guests)

8 HR Ocean Salmon & Rockfish Trip

From June to August, experience the thrill of ocean salmon and bottom fishing along the stunning Oregon coast, when weather and conditions allow. These trips offer an exciting opportunity to target hard-fighting Chinook and Coho Salmon, as well as Lingcod and Black Rockfish, using a variety of proven techniques. Combo trips provide the chance to reel in a bounty of fresh seafood, making for an unforgettable day on the water. Along the way, enjoy a front-row seat to Oregon’s diverse marine wildlife. Book now for an epic summer fishing adventure!

Full Day Trip

8 HR Ocean Salmon & Rockfish TripMaximum 6 persons allowed
(base trip price includes 6 guests)
8 HR Ocean Salmon & Rockfish Trip8 Hours
8 HR Ocean Salmon & Rockfish Trip5:30 AM
$600

Pick Your Date

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8HR Private Buoy 10 Fishing Trip – Astoria
8HR Private Buoy 10 Fishing Trip – AstoriaTop-Rated
8HR Private Buoy 10 Fishing Trip – AstoriaInstant Booking
8HR Private Buoy 10 Fishing Trip – AstoriaFishing - River
8HR Private Buoy 10 Fishing Trip – Astoria

True North Outdoors26'River Wild Max 6 guests (base trip price includes 6 guests)

8HR Private Buoy 10 Fishing Trip – Astoria

Experience the thrill of Buoy 10 with a private 8-hour fishing trip in Astoria, one of the most sought-after salmon fisheries in the Pacific Northwest. Target Chinook and Coho Salmon as they enter the Columbia River estuary, using expert techniques to land these prized fish. Enjoy a personalized, crowd-free experience with premium gear and top-tier guidance. Book early to secure your spot for this high-demand fishery!

Full Day Trip

8HR Private Buoy 10 Fishing Trip – AstoriaMaximum 6 persons allowed
(base trip price includes 6 guests)
8HR Private Buoy 10 Fishing Trip – Astoria8 Hours
8HR Private Buoy 10 Fishing Trip – Astoria5:30 AM
$1,000

Pick Your Date

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8-Hour Private Fall Salmon Fishing Experience
8-Hour Private Fall Salmon Fishing ExperienceTop-Rated
8-Hour Private Fall Salmon Fishing ExperienceInstant Booking
8-Hour Private Fall Salmon Fishing ExperienceFishing - River
8-Hour Private Fall Salmon Fishing Experience

True North Outdoors26'River Wild Max 6 guests (base trip price includes 6 guests)

8-Hour Private Fall Salmon Fishing Experience

Enjoy an exclusive, full-day salmon fishing adventure during the prime fall season. This private 8-hour trip takes you to the best fishing spots along the Columbia River and North Coast bays, where Chinook and Coho Salmon are making their seasonal return. With expert guidance, top-quality gear, and a personalized experience, you’ll have the best chance at landing these hard-fighting, prized fish. Book your trip today and make the most of the fall salmon run!

Full Day Trip

8-Hour Private Fall Salmon Fishing ExperienceMaximum 6 persons allowed
(base trip price includes 6 guests)
8-Hour Private Fall Salmon Fishing Experience8 Hours
8-Hour Private Fall Salmon Fishing Experience5:30 AM
$1,200

Pick Your Date

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8Hour Private Ocean Salmon & Rockfish Fishing Trip
8Hour Private Ocean Salmon & Rockfish Fishing TripTop-Rated
8Hour Private Ocean Salmon & Rockfish Fishing TripInstant Booking
8Hour Private Ocean Salmon & Rockfish Fishing TripFishing - River
8Hour Private Ocean Salmon & Rockfish Fishing Trip

True North Outdoors26'River Wild Max 6 guests (base trip price includes 6 guests)

8Hour Private Ocean Salmon & Rockfish Fishing Trip

Experience the ultimate private fishing trip on the Oregon coast, targeting Chinook and Coho Salmon, along with hard-fighting Lingcod and Rockfish. This 8-hour adventure offers the excitement of ocean fishing while enjoying a personalized experience with top-tier gear and expert guidance. Reel in a bounty of fresh seafood while taking in breathtaking coastal views and diverse marine wildlife. Book your private trip today for an unforgettable day on the water!

Full Day Trip

8Hour Private Ocean Salmon & Rockfish Fishing TripMaximum 6 persons allowed
(base trip price includes 6 guests)
8Hour Private Ocean Salmon & Rockfish Fishing Trip8 Hours
8Hour Private Ocean Salmon & Rockfish Fishing Trip5:30 AM
$1,000

Pick Your Date

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8 HR Private Spring Salmon Fishing Trip
8 HR Private Spring Salmon Fishing TripTop-Rated
8 HR Private Spring Salmon Fishing TripInstant Booking
8 HR Private Spring Salmon Fishing TripFishing - River
8 HR Private Spring Salmon Fishing Trip

True North Outdoors26'River Wild Max 6 guests (base trip price includes 6 guests)

8 HR Private Spring Salmon Fishing Trip

Experience the thrill of spring salmon fishing on this exclusive 8-hour private trip. Target the highly prized Chinook Salmon, known for its exceptional flavor and fight, in the Willamette and Columbia Rivers. With expert guidance, premium gear, and a personalized experience, you'll have the best chance at landing these sought-after fish. Book your private adventure today and enjoy the peak of spring salmon season!

Full Day Trip

8 HR Private Spring Salmon Fishing TripMaximum 6 persons allowed
(base trip price includes 6 guests)
8 HR Private Spring Salmon Fishing Trip8 Hours
8 HR Private Spring Salmon Fishing Trip6:00 AM
$1,200

Pick Your Date

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8 HR Shared Buoy 10 Salmon Fishing Trip
Best Price Guarantee
8 HR Shared Buoy 10 Salmon Fishing TripTop-Rated
8 HR Shared Buoy 10 Salmon Fishing TripInstant Booking
8 HR Shared Buoy 10 Salmon Fishing TripFishing - River
8 HR Shared Buoy 10 Salmon Fishing Trip

True North Outdoors26'River Wild Max 6 guests (base trip price includes 6 guests)

8 HR Shared Buoy 10 Salmon Fishing Trip

Join an exciting 8-hour shared fishing trip at Buoy 10, one of the most famous salmon fisheries in the Pacific Northwest! Target Chinook and Coho Salmon as they make their way into the Columbia River, using proven techniques to hook these hard-fighting fish. This trip offers a fun, social experience while still providing expert guidance and top-quality gear. Book your spot today and be part of the legendary Buoy 10 fishery!

Full Day Trip

8 HR Shared Buoy 10 Salmon Fishing TripMaximum 6 persons allowed
(base trip price includes 6 guests)
8 HR Shared Buoy 10 Salmon Fishing Trip8 Hours
8 HR Shared Buoy 10 Salmon Fishing Trip5:00 AM
$500

Pick Your Date

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8 HR Private Spring Salmon Fishing Experience
8 HR Private Spring Salmon Fishing ExperienceTop-Rated
8 HR Private Spring Salmon Fishing ExperienceInstant Booking
8 HR Private Spring Salmon Fishing ExperienceFishing - River
8 HR Private Spring Salmon Fishing Experience

True North Outdoors26'River Wild Max 6 guests (base trip price includes 6 guests)

8 HR Private Spring Salmon Fishing Experience

Enjoy a premier private fishing experience during spring salmon season, targeting the prized Chinook Salmon in the Columbia and Willamette Rivers. This 8-hour adventure offers expert guidance, top-quality gear, and a personalized trip tailored to your fishing goals. With peak-season action and breathtaking river scenery, this is the perfect opportunity to land one of the best-tasting salmon of the year. Book your private trip today for an unforgettable day on the water!

Full Day Trip

8 HR Private Spring Salmon Fishing ExperienceMaximum 6 persons allowed
(base trip price includes 6 guests)
8 HR Private Spring Salmon Fishing Experience8 Hours
8 HR Private Spring Salmon Fishing Experience5:00 AM
$1,000

Pick Your Date

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Vehicle

True North Outdoors

Boat Type:

Boat Guest Capacity:

6

Boat Length:

26 ft

Manufacturer Name:

River Wild

Model Year:

2021

Engine Manufacturer Name:

Yamaha

# of Engines:

1

Horsepower Per Engine:

250

Maximum Cruising Speed:

40

Features: Ice-Box Trolling Motor Fish Finder GPS

True North Outdoors River Wild Boat

This 2021 River Wild skiff offers room for 6 passengers and top-tier performance. Powered by a 250HP Yamaha, it reaches speeds up to 40 knots, perfect for Oregon’s fishing adventures.

Boat

True North Outdoors River Wild Boat image 0

True North Outdoors

Boat Type:

Boat Guest Capacity:

6

Boat Length:

26 ft

Vehicle Details

FAQs about True North Outdoors

Reports and Expert Articles

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Summer Fishing Action Heats Up Around Portland Waters

The summer bite around Portland is heating up, with great action across multiple waterways. The Willamette and Columbia Rivers are both producing solid catches, especially for anglers targeting warm-weather species. Willamette River: Smallmouth bass are the main draw right now. They’re hitting hard on soft plastics, crankbaits, and topwater lures in the early morning and evening hours. Areas near rocky structures and docks are holding the most fish. Some decent-sized catfish are also being caught by anglers soaking bait near deeper holes.

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Salmon Fishing

These Kingslayers flew in from Germany to get the #bestofthepnw @hanfordreachoutdoors customs

Ratings & Reviews Summary

5.00
out of 5
Based on 24 ratings
100%
recommended
recommended
Based on 24 recommendations
5
24
4
3
2
1
Our Captain is loved for...
Best Boat
Great Guide
Best Spots
Great For Novices

July 26, 2025

Captain Hugh put us on the fish early and kept the action going all day. He is incredibly friendly, knowledgeable, professional, and patient. The planning and communication were excellent—he checked in multiple times before the trip, ensuring we knew the details of where to be, when to arrive, and what to expect. His boat is top-notch, well-maintained, and equipped with high-end gear. We can’t wait to book another trip with him and highly recommend Captain Hugh to anyone looking for an amazing fishing experience!

July 26, 2025

We had an amazing time on the river! Hugh was extremely well-prepared and went above and beyond to ensure we caught fish. His boat was not only well-equipped but also very comfortable. Overall, it was a fantastic experience, and we would highly recommend booking a trip with him!

July 26, 2025

An all-around fantastic experience! Captain Hugh is a great guide with top-quality gear and a clean, comfortable boat. On a tough fishing day when only one other boat landed a fish, we managed to catch three! Highly recommend booking a trip with him!

July 26, 2025

Captain Hugh goes above and beyond to get you on the fish! His dedication, expertise, and top-quality gear make for an unforgettable fishing experience. Highly recommend!

July 26, 2025

The fish weren’t biting that day, but Captain Hugh put in the extra effort to find them. That’s fishing! His dedication and hard work made for a great experience regardless.

July 26, 2025

Took my Dad out for his 87 B-day. Hugh does a great job explaining what you have to do. We caught two spring chinooks. Dad said it was a great Bday gift. Highly recommend fishing with them.

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