Get ready for the ultimate walleye fishing experience on the mighty Columbia River. This full-day trip is tailor-made for serious anglers looking to maximize their time on the water and land some trophy-sized walleye. With Spectrum Lures Outfitters, you'll have a seasoned captain at the helm, guiding you to the best spots and sharing insider tips to improve your technique. From dawn to dusk (and beyond), you'll be immersed in prime walleye habitat, giving you the best shot at hooking into some real beauties.
Your walleye adventure kicks off bright and early at 7 AM, so come caffeinated and ready to fish! This 24-hour private trip means you've got the boat and guide all to yourself, allowing for a truly customized experience. We run these trips on Mondays, Saturdays, and Sundays during peak walleye season, giving you flexibility to fit it into your schedule. What sets this trip apart is the chance to fish through changing conditions – from the morning bite to the evening feed and even into the night. It's a non-stop walleye pursuit that'll push your skills to the limit and potentially reward you with the catch of a lifetime.
Walleye fishing on the Columbia is all about adapting to the river's moods. In the morning, we might start off pitching jigs along rocky shorelines or trolling crankbaits through deeper channels. As the day progresses, we'll switch up our tactics, maybe drifting live bait rigs or working blade baits in the current seams. When night falls, that's when things can get really exciting. We'll break out the glow-in-the-dark lures and target walleye as they move into shallower water to feed. Throughout the trip, your guide will be right there, helping you fine-tune your presentation and teaching you how to read the river like a local.
The Columbia River is a world-class walleye fishery, but it can also be a challenging environment. Expect to encounter everything from calm pools to fast-moving currents and even the occasional barge wake. We'll be fishing from a well-equipped boat designed for these conditions, with plenty of room to cast and fight fish. Weather can change quickly out here, so dress in layers and be prepared for sun, wind, or even a bit of rain. Don't worry though – your guide knows all the best spots to tuck into if things get rough. And remember, this is a marathon, not a sprint. Pace yourself, stay hydrated, and get ready for some of the best walleye action you've ever experienced.
While this trip is laser-focused on walleye, it's worth knowing a bit more about these fascinating fish. Columbia River walleye are known for their size and fighting spirit. These golden-brown predators can grow to impressive sizes here, with fish over 10 pounds not uncommon. What makes walleye such a prized catch is their combination of challenging behavior and excellent table fare. They've got keen eyesight, which makes them wary, but also allows them to feed actively in low-light conditions. That's why our extended trip gives you such an advantage – we'll be on the water during prime feeding times at dawn, dusk, and through the night. Walleye tend to school up, so when you find one, you've often found a bunch. They prefer cooler water and will move around the river system seasonally. In the Columbia, we typically see peak walleye activity in the late spring and early summer, but good fishing can be had year-round if you know where to look.
There's something special about walleye fishing on the Columbia that keeps anglers coming back year after year. Maybe it's the thrill of feeling that distinctive 'tap-tap' on your line as a walleye samples your bait. Or perhaps it's the rush of reeling in a fat 'eye' as it bulldogs near the boat. For many, it's the camaraderie that develops over a long day on the water, swapping stories and learning new tricks from your guide. And let's not forget – at the end of the day, you might just have some of the best-tasting fillets you've ever had waiting to hit the grill. This trip offers the chance to fully immerse yourself in the walleye angler's lifestyle, even if just for a day. It's an experience that'll have you checking your calendar for your next free weekend before you even get off the boat.
While every trip is different, we've been seeing some impressive walleye come aboard this season. Just last week, one of our guests landed a chunky 12-pounder that put up a fight worthy of a much larger fish. We've also been consistently putting clients on good numbers of 'eater-sized' walleye in the 15-20 inch range – perfect for a fish fry if you're planning to keep a few. Remember, conservation is key to maintaining this fishery, so we always encourage selective harvest and proper catch-and-release techniques for the big ones.
For a 24-hour trip, proper preparation is crucial. Here's a quick checklist to ensure you're ready for a full day (and night) of walleye action: - Valid fishing license (we can help you get a temporary one if needed) - Layered clothing (it can get chilly on the water, especially at night) - Rain gear (just in case) - Sunscreen and sunglasses - Hat or cap - Snacks and drinks (we'll be out there a while!) - Camera or smartphone for photos - Any personal medications you might need Don't worry about rods, reels, or tackle – we've got you covered with top-notch gear specifically chosen for Columbia River walleye.
If you're serious about walleye fishing and want to experience the best the Columbia River has to offer, this 24-hour trip is calling your name. It's a chance to fish like the pros do – putting in the time, working different techniques, and reaping the rewards. Remember, we only run these extended trips on select days, so spots can fill up fast. Whether you're looking to learn new skills, target a personal best, or just enjoy a full day of world-class fishing, we've got you covered. Give us a call or book online to reserve your date. Just a heads up – deposits are non-refundable, but trust us, this is one fishing trip you won't want to miss. See you on the river!
Walleye are a prized catch on the Columbia, typically running 15-30 inches and up to 20 pounds. These golden-olive fish with distinctive reflective eyes thrive in our deeper, cooler waters. You'll find them hanging near rocky structure, drop-offs, and weed edges. Spring and fall are prime seasons, but night fishing can be productive year-round. Walleye put up a good fight and make excellent table fare with their firm, flaky white meat. To entice a bite, try slow-trolling a nightcrawler harness along the bottom. Keep your bait just off the river bed - walleye often sit right on the bottom waiting to ambush prey. Patience and precision are key, but landing one of these toothy predators is well worth the effort.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 4
Manufacturer Name: Mercury
Maximum Cruising Speed: 50
Number of Engines: 1
Horsepower per Engine: 200