DL / Grandpa,
You don't need to anchor on the out going tides to catch fish. I have been fishing down there for 15 years and I as well as all in our group always troll and catch plenty of fish. Herring in the Rhys Davis herring hood (re-tied so there is a trailer hook that sits just off the tail. The hoods are nice because you can adjust your roll easily by changing the bend of the herring. As far as where to go, just look for the boats anywhere between I-5 bridge and tongue point.

If you do use a river anchor system, it's not just a matter of getting the right one, it's knowing how to use it and retrieve it.

Since the nets didn't go in this week I'll be heading down this weekend for my first trip of the year. I know it's a bit early but I got my first springer last year on March 10th, and one of our Longview buddies picked up his first this year over a week ago. So there are a few fish in the river.

Good Luck!