I've seen drift boats at Buoy 10. I think that's nuts. The Columbia is only the 5th largest river in the world and that makes it big water. You can use a drift boat near shore and ramp almost anywhere on the river, but if the wind picks up (and it does almost daily) it could be tough getting back. I've had days in my open 19' sled where I got caught taking 15 minutes to get there, and over an hour to get back and wet besides.

When the tide is running and there is alot of water in the river, I've seen 2-3 knots going under the boat at anchor. Not sure if an electric can buck that and a head wind with a 2-3' chop.

That said, plenty of drift boats fish the Columbia and catch fish. You just have to pick your spots and pick your days... and wear a life jacket.