My dad is in from the east coast and recovering from chemo. I want to take him on the Columbia to hook some sturgeon. I have a 16' Lund. Anyone willing to help with some ideas, location, launch, bait setup? I've heard Baker Bay might be a good start. Thanks

Some freinds and I went out a few weeks ago, and did pretty well 50/ 50 for keepers, caught alot of 42'' to 44'' throw backs. We launched out od chinook, and did catch fish right out front of the reststop/park. Smelt soaked in herring/ shrimp oil did the trick...
GOOD LUCK

If you want to relax and have some unbelievable fishing, check out the Frasier. Here is a giuide I used, and I highly recommend. the drive is about the same distance.

GUIDE SERVICE

I would launch at the John Day launch just upriver of Astoria. Then I'd run out until I seen the boats. Cruise around until you mark fish. Get just above them and anchor up. Use anchovies. You have to call ahead. The bait truck is called Free willy's bait. (sorry I don't have the number handy) I had my best days this year on the incoming tide.

Good Luck to ya

Thanks for the info! Any others appreciated.

Hire a guide for right below Bonneville, you shouldn't have any problem getting into several oversized sturgeon that will pull until you and dad are sick of it!

RM

run out of chinook early am (at sunlight) go upstream & across the river, end up on the Oregon side about 1/4 to 1/2 mile from the bridge, start in 20' of water, use smelt, spray some of the with Bang crab scent & some not, use anchovies sprayed & not, fish for15- 20 minutes, no bites, move in 2-3' shallower water, fish for 15-20 minutes, keep doing this until you find the fish, its easier than it sounds... keep a close eye on the wind because in the afternoon, it get choppy!