I cut my teeth on jigs on the Cowlitz 15 years ago...couldn't believe how well they worked and have never looked back. Used to "get in line" at Blue Creek but think the water there is much different now, used to be good jig water in the creek. Never used jigs in the main stem of the Cowlitz, I prefer clear boulder water about 4-6 ft. deep like in the upper Sky. The colors and techniques mentioned here are all good. Most important thing is getting a line in the water!!