Columbia River Sturgeon Fishing Regulations 2026
My name is Captain Larry Kesch and I have been fishing Oregon waters for the majority of my life. For those looking to fish for Columbia River sturgeon in 2026, this post will explain how the rules work, the meaning of catch and release in Portland, and the ideal time of year to fish! We are a dad & son duo who operate Portland Fishing Trips (Hook’em Up Guide Service). My son, Colby, grew up fishing with me, and he is right by my side now. We have devoted a great deal of time together to these waters, and we know the regulations for sturgeon fishing inside and out so that our guests can fish legally and the proper way.
What are the Columbia River sturgeon regulations for 2026?
The majority of sturgeon fishing in the Columbia River in 2026 is catch and release. Sturgeon are not commonly kept, and can only be kept in certain zones in brief periods of time each year in Oregon and Washington. The water below Bonneville Dam, including the Portland area and the water down to Astoria, is catch and release only. The Columbia River is an inter jurisdictional water body. This implies that the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) and the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) jointly determine and modify the rules. They annually check the sturgeon population and determine who and when may catch a fish. The rules are subject to change annually and may even alter during the season. Please always check current 2026 regulations with ODFW and WDFW prior to fishing or booking.
Captain Larry’s quick take
I would sum it up like this. At this time, all anglers have to only fish for sturgeon to release them all near Portland on the Columbia River. It continues to be the fishing of the century, and a large white sturgeon will provide you with a fight you won’t soon forget. My role is to be aware of the rules on the day we go out, so you don’t have to guess. When the rules shift, I shift with them.
How is white sturgeon managed on the Columbia River?
Columbia River sturgeon are heavily managed and protected because of the need to protect the population. The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) and the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) monitor fish and carefully manage populations to ensure the long-term health of the species. Sturgeon are slow to grow and live a very long time. A legal size fish may be a many years old. Due to this, the agencies retain the majority of the fishery catch and release, and only have short periods of retention when numbers permit. The numbers of younger fish below Bonneville Dam have been low in recent years, and the rules have remained stringent. I always communicate this to guests when taking them out around Portland. We care for each fish, because we want this fishery to be here for our children and grandchildren.
Is Columbia River sturgeon fishing catch and release, or can you keep one?
As of 2026, the sturgeon fishing on the Columbia River off the coast of Portland is catch and release. A few pools upstream, such as above The Dalles, are open for a shorter time in the winter, but have already closed for the year. Downstream Bonneville Dam has also been catch and release only. Handling the fish right and catch and release is a great option. In my boat, we don’t lift the biggest fish out of the water at all, they are the real giants. We unhook them boatside and let them go off strong. We use barbless hooks, we work quickly and we release fish healthy. There’s one thing I always say to people and it’s that anybody who says a clean release is not a lot of fun is lying. It’s still the same photo, fight, and story.
When is the best time of year for Columbia River sturgeon fishing near Portland?
Columbia River sturgeon fishing is greatest during the warmer months, and is good in late spring and summer near Portland. This is when the fish are in good numbers in the lower river and the estuary and the catch and release catch is excellent. The seasons and conditions are important. When fishing the Columbia River, I always check the tide, current, water temp and where the bait is. The lower Willamette River is also catch and release and has sturgeon. I choose the water and the day according to the river and not just the calendar.
What should you expect on a Portland Fishing Trips sturgeon charter?
This is a guided and hands-on day with local guides who are knowledgeable of the river. We provide the boat, gear, bait, and the instruction. All you need is the desire to fish. This is for people who are new to fishing and children, feel free to come and I will guide you through! This is a father/son guide service operated by Colby and myself and we can have two boats out on the water. With two boats we have increased flexibility in the event of a fish move. If one stretch is silent, we can move on to another and discuss what is working. We observe the tide, the current, the weather and the bite all day and adapt to your group experience accordingly. Safety is paramount, it’s a relaxed pace and we want everyone to feel comfortable.
What should you bring on your Columbia River sturgeon trip?
Pack layers, clothes that can get a bit fishy, and rain gear. Weather in Oregon is unpredictable and rapid, so it’s best to be prepared. Bring snacks, beverages, sun protection, sun glasses, and a camera and/or cell phone to take pictures. A few more tips. Never take a motion sickness medicine after you get on the boat, remember to take it before! Shoes that are soft soled, such as flip flops, are best on deck. A valid Oregon fishing license will be necessary and it is recommended that Columbia River fishermen also obtain a Columbia River Basin Endorsement. Please check with ODFW prior to your trip regarding license and rule requirements, as these can change. We’ll let you know what you need to bring and what to take care of before you book with us.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Columbia River sturgeon regulations for 2026? Most Columbia River sturgeon fishing in 2026 is catch and release, with only short retention windows in limited zones. Rules are set each year by ODFW and WDFW and can change mid-season, so confirm the current rules with both agencies before you fish.
Can you keep a sturgeon on the Columbia River in 2026? Not near Portland in 2026, where it has been catch and release only. A few short keep days opened in upstream pools earlier in the winter, but those are closed for the year. Always check the current ODFW and WDFW rules first.
Do I need experience to book a sturgeon trip? No. New anglers, families, and kids are all welcome. We provide the gear and coach you through everything on the boat.
Do I need a fishing license for sturgeon fishing in Oregon? Usually yes. Most adult anglers need a valid Oregon fishing license, and Columbia River trips often require a Columbia River Basin Endorsement. Confirm the current requirements with ODFW before your trip.
When is the best time to fish for sturgeon near Portland? Late spring and summer are usually the strongest for catch and release action, especially in the lower Columbia River and down toward Astoria.
Is white sturgeon fishing on the Columbia River good even when it’s catch and release? Yes. White sturgeon grow huge and fight hard, so a catch and release day can be one of the most exciting trips you’ll take on the river.
Ready to book your Portland fishing trip?
It would be awesome to get you out on the water! Whether you’re considering Columbia River sturgeon fishing in 2026 or a guided fishing day near Portland, please give us a call and find a day that suits you. Colby and I will take care of the rules, gear and boat, you’ll be concentrating on the fish. Make a booking with Portland Fishing Trips and let’s go and create some memories on the river.