Discover the Cathlamet Area: Fishing Reports & Recreation

---

The Columbia River is a bucket-list destination for anglers, renowned for Chinook salmon, coho salmon, steelhead, and sturgeon. Spring and fall are prime seasons for salmon fishing, with Cathlamet being a key “holding area” where spring Chinook linger, making it ideal for trolling or anchoring. Check the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) for current regulations, as limits vary (e.g., Marine Area 1 allows two salmon daily, but only one may be Chinook, with wild coho release required). Boat launches like Willow Grove, Rainier, and Kalama are popular access points.

This area is a popular staging area for summer Steelhead and can be caught here, way in advance of larger numbers heading over Bonneville.  Fishing Coon Shrimp from bank or boat is the most popular technique.  Focus your efforts on the beginning and end of outgoing tides.

The Elochoman Slough, near Cathlamet, is a hotspot for winter steelhead, peaking in December and early January, with some Chinook and chum salmon opportunities. This smaller river system also supports limited cutthroat trout fishing. The Elochoman Slough Marina offers cabins, yurts, RV hookups, and dry camping, making it a great base for anglers and families. Its proximity to the Columbia River enhances its appeal for both recreational and commercial fishermen.

Recreational Opportunities: 

Kayaking and Paddling Adventures - The region’s waterways, including the Elochoman Slough and Columbia River, are perfect for kayaking and canoeing. A recommended paddle is the 7.5-mile route from Cathlamet Marina to Skamokawa via Elochoman Slough, offering serene views and wildlife sightings like river otters and hawks. Watch tides, as low water can limit passage. Skamokawa’s Vista Campground is a great launch point for trips around Welch and Fitzpatrick Islands.

County Line Park, located along the Columbia River near Cathlamet, Washington, approximately 15 minutes from Longview, is a popular spot for fishing and outdoor recreation in the Cathlamet to Longview region. Situated in Wahkiakum County at the border with Cowlitz County, this park offers a unique blend of accessible riverfront activities and natural beauty 

County Line Park is renowned for its bank fishing opportunities on the Columbia River, particularly for Chinook salmon, coho salmon, and steelhead. The park’s beach access makes it ideal for “plunking” (stationary bait fishing), a favored technique for targeting salmon. Anglers often use setups like those recommended for nearby Willow Grove Beach, such as spin-n-glos or wobblers, to attract fish in the river’s current.

Spring (March-May) and fall (August-October) are peak seasons for salmon, while winter steelhead fishing is productive from December to early February. Sturgeon fishing is also possible, though retention rules are strict and often limited to specific periods (check WDFW regulations for 2025 updates).

Sea lions can interfere with catches, as they’re drawn to salmon runs. Anglers should be prepared for competition from wildlife and follow ethical fishing practices to avoid snagging, which is illegal.

 The park provides easy shore access, making it beginner-friendly for families or anglers without boats. Limited facilities mean visitors should bring their own gear, bait, and supplies, available at nearby shops like Bob’s Sporting Goods in Longview or Metro Tackle in Kelso.

Willow Grove Park, located along the Columbia River in Longview, Washington, is a premier destination for fishing and outdoor recreation in the Cathlamet to Longview region. Situated in Cowlitz County, this park offers easy river access, scenic views, and a range of activities, making it an essential highlight for your recreational guide. Its proximity to Longview’s amenities and Cathlamet’s quaint charm enhances its appeal for anglers, families, and outdoor enthusiasts.

Willow Grove Park is a go-to spot for bank fishing on the Columbia River, particularly for Chinook salmon, coho salmon, and steelhead. The park’s long, accessible shoreline is ideal for “plunking” (stationary bait fishing), with anglers using spin-n-glos, wobblers, or bait like shrimp or herring to target salmon. Its reputation as a productive fishing spot draws both locals and visitors.

Spring (March-May) and fall (August-October) are peak seasons for salmon fishing, with Chinook and coho runs attracting anglers. Winter steelhead fishing is strong from December to early February, and sturgeon fishing is available, though retention is tightly regulated (e.g., specific size limits and seasonal closures). Always check the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) for 2025 regulations.

Boat Launch Access: The park features a well-maintained boat launch, making it a hub for boaters targeting deeper waters of the Columbia River. This is especially popular for trolling for salmon or sturgeon, with nearby “honey holes” known to local guides.

The park offers ample parking and basic facilities, but anglers should bring their own gear and bait, available at nearby Bob’s Sporting Goods in Longview or Metro Tackle in Kelso.

Recreational Opportunities:

Known as the “crown jewel” of Longview, Lake Sacajawea is a 67-acre park with excellent fishing for rainbow trout, brown trout, largemouth bass, and panfish like bluegill and yellow perch. Trout are stocked from January to May, with broodstock added in late winter for bigger catches. The park also offers 3.5 miles of trails, kayaking, canoeing, and family-friendly events like the annual Fishing Derby for kids.

Recreational Opportunities:

Hiking and Wildlife Viewing - The area’s mix of river valleys and forested hills offers great hiking. Lake Sacajawea’s trails, including the Solar System Walk and Frank Willis Arboretum, combine nature with education. For wildlife, expect to see ducks, geese, and cormorants at Lake Sacajawea, or explore WDFW-managed wildlife areas for birdwatching and conservation-focused outings

Cowlitz River: The Cowlitz River, a major tributary of the Columbia River flowing through Longview in Cowlitz County, Washington, is one of the state’s premier fishing destinations. Known for its robust runs of salmon, steelhead, and smelt, the river offers diverse angling opportunities for bank and boat anglers.

Chinook Salmon

• Best Months: Spring (March-May) for spring Chinook; fall (August-October) for fall Chinook.
• Techniques:
  • Bank Fishing: Popular at spots like Hoyer Road and Cook Ferry Road near Longview. Plunking with spin-n-glos, wobblers, or bait (e.g., herring, shrimp) is effective. Use heavy tackle (20-30 lb test) to handle strong currents and large fish.
  • Boat Fishing: Trolling with plugs (e.g., Mag Lip) or cut-plug herring in deeper pools near Kelso and Longview. Back-bouncing with eggs or yarn balls works in riffles.
  • Drift Fishing: Casting spinners or drifting bait (e.g., sand shrimp, roe) from boats or wading in shallower sections.
• Key Notes: Spring Chinook are prized for their size (10-30 lbs), while fall runs offer higher numbers. Check Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) regulations for bag limits (typically 2 salmon daily, only 1 Chinook) and wild fish release rules. The Fishbrain app provides real-time catch reports.

2. Coho Salmon

• Best Months: Fall (September-November).
• Techniques:
  • Bank Fishing: Plunking with spinners or bait (e.g., coon shrimp, roe) at accessible spots like Allen Street Bridge or Blue Creek. Bright-colored lures (pink, chartreuse) attract coho.
  • Boat Fishing: Trolling with wobblers or spinners in the lower river near Longview. Side-drifting with small egg clusters or yarn balls is effective in faster water.
  • Fly Fishing: Swinging streamers or wet flies in riffles for aggressive coho, especially in early fall.
• Key Notes: Coho are feisty (5-15 lbs) and abundant in fall. Wild coho often require release, so check WDFW rules. Bank access is excellent near Longview, making it beginner-friendly.

3. Steelhead

• Best Months: Winter (December-February) for winter steelhead; summer (June-August) for summer steelhead.
• Techniques:
  • Bank Fishing: Drift fishing with jigs, beads, or bait (e.g., shrimp, eggs) under bobbers at spots like Blue Creek or Barrier Dam. Casting spoons or spinners in deeper pools works well.
  • Boat Fishing: Side-drifting or back-bouncing with pink worms, beads, or roe in the lower and middle river. Trolling with small plugs in slower currents is effective for summer runs.
  • Fly Fishing: Swinging flies (e.g., leech patterns, egg imitations) in tailouts or runs, particularly for winter steelhead.
• Key Notes: Winter steelhead (8.nio-8 lbs) are larger and more aggressive than summer runs (4-6 lbs). Hatchery steelhead are planted annually, but wild fish must often be released. Use the Fishbrain app for spot-specific tips.

4. Smelt (Eulachon)

• Best Months: Late winter to early spring (February-March).
• Techniques:
  • Dip Netting: Using long-handled nets (10-25 feet) from the riverbank at spots like the mouth near Longview or Kelso. Smelt school in large numbers, making dip netting highly productive during runs.
• Key Notes: Kelso is known as the “Smelt Capital of the World.” Runs are short and intense, with no bag limit during open seasons, but WDFW closely monitors stocks due to conservation concerns. Check for 2025 season openings, as they vary annually.

5. Cutthroat Trout

• Best Months: Year-round, with peak fishing in spring (March-May) and fall (September-November).
• Techniques:
  • Bank Fishing: Casting small spinners, spoons, or bait (e.g., worms, salmon eggs) in slower pools or eddies. Lightweight tackle (4-8 lb test) is ideal.
  • Fly Fishing: Using dry flies (e.g., Adams, elk hair caddis) or small streamers in riffles and runs, especially in upper sections near Castle Rock.
• Key Notes: Cutthroat trout are smaller (8-16 inches) and often catch-and-release only to protect wild populations. They’re less common than salmon or steelhead but offer a fun, light-tackle experience.

Elochoman River: A relatively short river originating in the Willapa Hills, flowing into a slough and then the Columbia River northwest of Cathlamet. It’s a key fishing stream in Wahkiakum County.   Known for winter steelhead fishing (peaking December to early January), with limited catches of fall Chinook salmon and cutthroat trout. The Elochoman Slough Marina provides access for anglers and paddlers, with kayaking routes to Skamokawa.  

Abernathy Creek: A small stream entering the Columbia River in western Cowlitz County, near the Abernathy Fish Technology Center.   Offers modest, mostly catch-and-release fishing for trout, steelhead, and salmon. It’s less crowded than larger rivers, appealing to anglers seeking a quieter experience. Kayaking is limited due to its size, but it’s good for nature walks and wildlife observation.  

Coweeman River A smaller stream with headwaters at Coweeman Lake in the mountains east of Kelso, flowing into the Columbia River.  Supports fishing for wild cutthroat trout and a small plant of hatchery winter steelhead. Its scenic setting is ideal for short hikes or peaceful fishing outings, though it’s less productive than the Cowlitz.  

Recreational Opportunities at Willow Grove: Willow Grove’s sandy and gravelly beach is perfect for picnicking, beachcombing, or relaxing by the river. The open space is family-friendly, with room for kids to play or for groups to set up for a day out.

• Kayaking and Boating: The park’s boat launch supports kayaking, canoeing, and motorized boating. While the Columbia’s currents can be strong, calmer areas near the shore are suitable for paddlers exploring the river’s edge or nearby sloughs. Wildlife like river otters, eagles, and waterfowl are often spotted.
• Walking and Scenic Views: The park’s open layout and riverfront setting offer stunning views of the Columbia River and distant Mount St. Helens on clear days. Informal walking paths along the shore provide a relaxing way to enjoy the scenery.
• Community Events: Willow Grove occasionally hosts local events or serves as a gathering spot for fishing derbies and outdoor activities, tying into Longview’s vibrant recreational scene, such as events at nearby Lake Sacajawea.

Birdwatching and Wildlife Tours:

• Why It’s Great: The Lower Columbia River region is a hotspot for wildlife, with wetlands, sloughs, and forests hosting bald eagles, great blue herons, river otters, and migratory waterfowl. The Julia Butler Hansen Refuge for the Columbian White-Tailed Deer, near Cathlamet, is a prime spot for wildlife observation.  
• Tip: Bring binoculars and visit the refuge’s trails or the Elochoman Slough for birdwatching. Guided tours, like those offered by Lower Columbia Fish Enhancement Group, provide insights into local ecosystems. Check WDFW’s Life Outdoors Report for seasonal wildlife events.  
• Pro Tip: Early morning or late afternoon visits maximize sightings, especially during spring and fall migrations.

Biking Along the Columbia River:

• Why It’s Great: The flat terrain along Highway 4 and local roads in Cathlamet and Longview makes for scenic, low-impact cycling. Routes like the path from Willow Grove Park to Longview’s industrial waterfront offer river views and easy access.  
• Tip: Rent bikes in Longview or bring your own for a leisurely ride to County Line Park or Cathlamet’s riverfront. The Longview area has paved paths, like those near Lake Sacajawea, ideal for families or casual cyclists.  
• Pro Tip: Combine biking with a stop at local cafes or breweries in Cathlamet for a full day out.

Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP) on Lake Sacajawea 

• Why It’s Great: Lake Sacajawea in Longview is a calm, urban oasis perfect for stand-up paddleboarding, offering a serene contrast to the Columbia River’s stronger currents.  
• Tip: Rent SUP boards from local outfitters in Longview or bring your own for a relaxing paddle. The lake’s 3.5-mile trail system allows for combined paddling and walking outings.  
• Pro Tip: Visit during summer evenings for free concerts at the lake, combining SUP with Longview’s community vibe.