Coho salmon and tuna are currently abundant in the Columbia River, according to recent reports. Anglers are experiencing a bountiful fishing season, with coho catches soaring and tuna sightings on the rise. The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife has noted a significant increase in coho salmon catches, with a healthy fish-per-rod average of 1.5 between Leadbetter Point and Cape Falcon. This abundance is attracting not only salmon anglers but also tuna skippers, who are eagerly awaiting the arrival of the nomadic "chickens of the sea."
The Columbia River's warm plume, where the water cools below 60 degrees and the depth falls off the 40-foot shelf, is a prime location for these fish. The presence of gray and humpback whales, sooty shearwaters, murres, brown pelicans, and a US Coast Guard cutter further adds to the vibrant ecosystem. The fishing fleet is bustling, with anglers reeling in coho salmon and tuna skippers scouting for the elusive "chickens of the sea."
One notable anecdote involves a thrilling fishing experience where multiple anglers, including Josh Taylor, Marshall Strutz, Ray Hobizal, Greg Finley, and Joel "Six-Pole-Joel" Young, found themselves in a chaotic 45-minute beehive of salmon. The crew's efforts resulted in a successful catch, with Strutz using cutplug herring and Spin-N-Fish catching the majority of the fish. This incident highlights the excitement and unpredictability of fishing in the Columbia River.
The abundance of coho salmon is not limited to the Columbia River. Anglers in smaller boats are also crossing their fingers, hoping that the warming waters will attract the nomadic tuna. Mike Colbach, a tuna skipper and crew member, humorously noted the difference in mindset between salmon and tuna anglers, with salmon fishermen asking 'how close?' and tuna fishermen asking 'how many?'.
However, it's important to remember that razor clam digging in Clatsop County is currently closed due to the protection of this year's "set", baby clams that will grow quickly. The annual closure, which runs until October 1, is enforced by the Oregon State Police's fish and wildlife division troopers. All other razor clam digging is open north of Cape Blanco, with beaches around Cannon Beach, Newport, Florence, and Coos Bay also offering opportunities for clamming, crabbing, and mussel gathering.
In summary, the Columbia River is currently experiencing a fishing boom, with coho salmon and tuna abundance attracting anglers and tuna skippers alike. The vibrant ecosystem and the thrill of the catch make this a memorable season for fishing enthusiasts in the region.
