Walleye fishing is at its best right now; and will be for the rest of July through the first couple weeks of September. Daily limits are being caught on Hot Lips, plugs, and bottom-walking spinner worm harnesses…. Most of the best fishing is at Umatilla, Irrigon, and Boardman, Oregon and fishing depths of 35 to 38 feet. Trophy walleye are being pulled everyday. The last day we were out, July 20th, we caught 19 walleye of assorted sizes, three over ten pounds and one 13 pounder. All the big fish are putting on their food bags to get ready for fall and winter. With a late spawn this year a lot of the fish haven’t gotten to feed like they normally would in the spring after spawning, so it’s making the fishing easy. The currents in the Columbia River are slowing down as well, which also makes the fishing easier–your presentations of bait are slower and that allows you to keep your bait in the spot you want longer, encouraging more hook ups per day.
Pictured above are some spinner worm harness rigs to view. All of them work well. If you have any questions on what to use contact www.mackslure.com for more details–they have it all when it comes to walleye fishing gear. As far as rods are concerned, I prefer to use Fetha Styx 8 1/2 ft 10-17 lb steelhead rods. Not only can I switch up easily to catch steelhead, but for the size of the walleye we target this rod is the perfect strength, and, furthermore, the sensitivity of the rod allows you to catch more fish.
By Elmer Hill / Mid Columbia River Guide Service
(541) 969-253
Good Morning Elmer—I have a packet for you regarding this years boat show. However, would you please sent me a mailing address. Thanks, take care. Chuck