Escapee
I can only share my experience. I started fishing Bouy10 in a 15 foot wood Bryant in 1963. I don't recommend small boats like that. It is a matter of picking your conditions to go or not go. I took my two sons out to fish it with a 16 foot alumacraft and we did very well, but I picked the conditions as to go or not go. There are days when it is flat and zero chop. I have seen a man row the bar in a wooden rowboat that looked smaller than anything I had ever been out in. To use good sense is the key. The further up-river from the mouth the less dangerous it is as a general rule. If you fish out of Chinook Wash you should be in OK water most days. The incoming tide gives you the best water. The high slack and first 90 min of outgoing will usually be the best
king bite. Staying with the pack of boats usually makes the most sense. Be sure you have a cell-phone and radio if you need help. The Astoria Coast Guard will come to your aid by calling 503-642-2381.
Troll with fresh herring you can get at the bait shop in Chinook. Use a standard mooching rig, weight will depend on were you are and how fast the water is. Three to six ounces will do the trick. I fish from 10 to 20 pulls.The fish will be following schools of bait.
You can watch for nets being used for landing and try to position your boat to get into the schools. Again use good sense and don't crowd your way into position, the next school may be were you just moved from. I prefer to stay out of the pack and seem to limit as well as anybody else. You should be aware that B10 has been poor to-date. My feeling is that it's a little early and another week will be better. Others will be better at giving you tips and I offer this info as a starting point. Have a safe and fun time!