Just got back from Chinook - Bouy 10 and what a blast. Big, fat fighting silvers. Limits everyday, with several native turn-backs. Yesterday took out 2 of my sons friends who have never fished...2 limits! Hooked for life. These aren't your 6 to 8 lbs'ers. These are 12,14 16 lbs fish with get up and go! Only wished i could have stayed longer but had to vacumn seal a cooler full before I go shoot some doves. If ya have a couple days go, you won't regreat it. :

I've never been to the Ilwaco area but have long wanted to go. At last this year I've got a new boat and am planning a trip this month (Sept).

Can you (or someone) recommend a place to stay for a couple of nights (cheap), the better boat launches, etc.,? I've heard horror stories about rough water, crossing the bar, etc. Are there special considerations I need to keep in mind?

Thanks, in advance.

Moochin Man, there is no need for a potentially dangerous bar crossing. The fish are in the river. All you need is a diver (purchase one locally) and herring.

MoochinMan, it's much easier than that. You can launch at Chinook's public launch or at Ft.Canby State Park launch, both very good. You fish the Columbia River and not the ocean. It can get choppy but as always,common sence provades. As to where to go. On a chart find buoy 19,20,21 or fish just outside of Chinook, or just find all the boats--it won't be hard. I stay at Ft.Canby State Park-very clean. My friend fished yeaterday and got 6 nice big silvers between the 2 of them. Fish ON

Moochin Man;
Take a look at Ifish.com . Those Oregon guys are all over it.
GutZ