Rivers in Pacific County
Bear River
Columbia River
Columbia River/Ilwaco: A large charter fleet operates out of Ilwaco, providing sport fishing opportunities for salmon, sturgeon, bottom fish and albacore tuna. Sturgeon angling can be excellent from spring through fall. Downstream from Bonneville Dam in the Columbia River and all tributaries, the daily limit is one sturgeon between 42 and 60 inches long. Anglers may continue to catch-and-release after they have legally recorded their one fish bag limit. This portion of the Columbia will be closed to sturgeon retention in April and possibly again in the fall this year. Offshore salmon angling may be increased this year. Fall salmon fishing can also be good just upstream from the Astoria-Megler Bridge. The river below Bonneville Dam reopens to shad and steelhead angling May 16. For more information, contact the WDFW Vancouver regional office (phone number listed inside the front cover). Public boat launches at Chinook, Ilwaco and Fort Canby give access to the lower Columbia River and the sport fish mentioned above, plus crabbing. Jetty and surf fishing is available at nearby Fort Canby State Park.
Naselle River
Naselle River: Winter steelhead, chinook, chum and coho salmon, sea-run cutthroat and sturgeon are found in the Naselle River. All wild steelhead must be released. Check the regulations pamphlet for season, gear and size restrictions. Disabled accessibility - Level 3. WCT, lgs.
Nemah River
Nemah River (North, Middle and South): These three small streams support runs of chinook, chum and coho salmon, winter steelhead and sea-run cutthroat. All wild steelhead must be released. Check the regulations pamphlet for season, size and gear restrictions.
North River
North River/Smith Creek: This site has public access for winter steelhead, chinook, chum and coho salmon, and good sea-run cutthroat fishing. All wild steelhead must be released. Check the regulations pamphlet for special size and catch limits and seasons. A good canoe area for bird and estuary viewing. Disabled accessibility Level 2. WCT, up path on hill, gs.
Palix River
Palix River: This small river southwest of South Bend supports runs of salmon, winter steelhead and sea-run cutthroat. All wild steelhead must be released. Check the regulations pamphlet for special size and catch limits and seasons.
Willapa River
Willapa River: A good river for winter steelhead, chinook and coho salmon, and sea-run cutthroat. All wild steelhead must be released. Check the regulations pamphlet for special gear, size and catch limits and seasons. Fishing from any floating device is prohibited November 1 through March 31 from the bridge on Willapa Road (Camp One Bridge) to Fork Creek.
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