Outdoor Report 1/25

Once again, we have more rain in the forecast. Just as our rivers dropped into fish-able conditions they are on their way back out. Considering all the rain we have gotten finding clear water seams will be your best bet for discovering fish-able water. These seams are typically found at the mouths of small feeders, creeks or streams. Bobber and pink worm or bobber and BnR Steelhead Scampi are both great options when probing the dirty waters of a high-water river. Another great option that is typically overlooked is bobber and bait. Bobber and sand shrimp, coon stripe shrimp or eggs are all good choices. You can add a little yarn and load up your bait with your favorite scent to help steelhead find your offering. For those fishing out of a boat, finding slow seams along the bank are usually a great place to start. Fish will be taking the path of least resistance and that usually means close to the shoreline. Backtrolling plugs can be a very deadly presentation as you are allowing the fish to see your offering for a longer amount of time. Drift fishing is also a preferred technique when wanting to slow down your offering. Rags, large corkies, big yarn balls and pink worms are all perfect options to drift fish in high off-color water. We have a 4-day clam opener in Long Beach, Washington coming up. January 31, February 1,2,3 Long Beach will have clam digs for the evening low tides. Make sure you have all your gear ready for this short but usually very productive clam dig. Catch and release sturgeon fishing has been a very consistent fishery. These fish don’t care how dirty the water is so it’s always a great alternative when the rivers are blown. Smelt, herring, sand shrimp and squid have all been great baits and lately the Portland harbor area has been one of the most productive spots.