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As the memories of chinook fishing fade away it’s time to change gears and with winter approaching that means steelheading time. Shane Magnusen of Upper Columbia Guide Service invited Aaron and I to give the Columbia River a try. I’d read of the good steelhead fishing on the Columbia but had a hard time visualizing drifting the river in a boat, ala’ Cowlitz River side drifting. So I was excited to learn a new location and technique.

We stayed at the Lake Pateros Motor Lodge which couldn’t be more convenient, just a couple blocks from the launch and the River’s Restaurant. Meeting Shane at 6am, we sat down to a nice, warm breakfast and lazy 7am start.

Our technique couldn’t be easier – side drifting a jig and cured prawn under a float. The water is deeper – we fished from 10 to 15 feet deep, but unlike what I expected, there was a steady current that moved us down river. Shane used his electric bow mount to keep the boat on track and we worked a couple spots. The plan had been for him to show us several spots, but we never got that far because the fishing is so good.

So good as in the three of us had our limits in just a few hours of fishing. Watching the floats dip under the water is always a cool thing to see. We caught six hatchery steelhead and released a wild fish with ridiculous ease. The fish are running 3 to 8 pounds on average, with occasion 10-12 pound fish out there. They have a pretty blush to them and the meat as you can see from the picture is great.

Best of all, we had the drift entirely to ourselves for the first couple hours, and then only had to share with two other boats after that. So if you are looking to get in on some great winter steelhead fishing give Shane a call at (509) 264-7684 or visit Upper Columbia Guide Service

mickeybland

10/26/2015 6:30:00 PM

some nice fish, I watched your video frome awile back on fishing the Green river and I was wondering if you can tell me if its leagel and all good to fish the green river near Tukwila and kent in mid November? some most Awsome fishing you have done posted. Iv seen you in many pics and videos of your trips and hope to see you on the water some time. TIGHT LINES!!!!!!!!

Mike Carey

10/26/2015 7:46:00 PM

I don't know current regs for the Green, but I'm guessing it may be closed. Glad you enjoy the videos.

Matt

10/27/2015 8:25:00 AM

This is a very fun fishery, and one I would love to try again some day.

Another item I can add about the Pateros Motor Lodge is that their prices are very affordable. For anyone bringing their own boat the launch is directly adjacent to the hotel, as well, and the patrons are happy to accommodate boats and trailers in their parking lot.

Mike Carey

10/28/2015 8:37:00 AM

Also, you can moor your boat overnight on their docks for free, how nice is that?

Goldrigger1

10/28/2015 1:37:00 PM

I've stayed there 4 times and love the docks. Not a whole lot of spots, but I'm usually fishing. Not a glamorous place, but good for fishermen. Like the meals at the other motel and there used to be a bakery. Good lure and bait store too.

I usually fish the Methow which is right there. One time I hooked one under the bridge that took off like I'd hooked a seal. I've never felt that kind of power from a fish. Maybe a sturgeon.

The deep slow water makes the lake kind of hard to read. You'd need a guide. Only bad thing is the awful drive.

Mike Carey

10/28/2015 4:41:00 PM

The bakery is still thrre. Lol, I'm getting used to the drive.

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