The Columbia River is one of the largest rivers in North America, flowing over 1,200 miles from its source in the Rocky Mountains to the Pacific Ocean. The river is home to a wide variety of fish species, making it a popular destination for anglers and a critical resource for commercial fishing. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the fish that inhabit the Columbia River, including their characteristics, habitat, and conservation status.
Salmon and Steelhead
Salmon and steelhead are perhaps the most well-known fish in the Columbia River. These species are anadromous, meaning they are born in freshwater, migrate to the ocean to mature, and return to freshwater to spawn. The Columbia River is home to five species of salmon and steelhead:
Chinook Salmon
Chinook salmon, also known as king salmon, are the largest species of salmon in the Columbia River, with some individuals weighing over 100 pounds. They are prized by anglers for their size and fight, and are also an important food source for predators like orcas and sea lions. Chinook salmon typically spawn in the upper reaches of the Columbia River and its tributaries.
Coho Salmon
Coho salmon, also known as silver salmon, are a smaller species of salmon that typically weigh between 8 and 12 pounds. They are an important food source for humans and predators like eagles and bears. Coho salmon spawn in the middle and upper reaches of the Columbia River and its tributaries.
Sockeye Salmon
Sockeye salmon, also known as red salmon, are a smaller species of salmon that typically weigh between 5 and 7 pounds. They are known for their bright red flesh and are an important commercial fishery in the Columbia River. Sockeye salmon spawn in the upper reaches of the Columbia River and its tributaries.
Chum Salmon
Chum salmon, also known as dog salmon, are the smallest species of salmon in the Columbia River, typically weighing between 4 and 10 pounds. They are an important food source for predators like bears and eagles. Chum salmon spawn in the lower reaches of the Columbia River and its tributaries.
Steelhead
Steelhead are a species of rainbow trout that spend part of their life in the ocean before returning to freshwater to spawn. They are prized by anglers for their size and fight, and are also an important food source for predators like sea lions and eagles. Steelhead spawn in the middle and upper reaches of the Columbia River and its tributaries.
Know more: Is Sturgeon Fishing Open on the Columbia River!
Sturgeon
Sturgeon are a prehistoric-looking fish that can grow to be over 10 feet long and weigh over 1,000 pounds. The Columbia River is home to two species of sturgeon:
White Sturgeon
White sturgeon are the largest freshwater fish in North America and can live for over 100 years. They are an important commercial and recreational fishery in the Columbia River, but have been overfished in the past and are now a protected species. White sturgeon are found in the lower reaches of the Columbia River and its estuary.
Green Sturgeon
Green sturgeon are a smaller species of sturgeon that can still grow up to 7 feet long and weigh over 300 pounds. They are a threatened species and are found in the lower reaches of the Columbia River and its estuary.
Trout
Trout are a popular sport fish in the Columbia River, and the river is home to several species of trout:
Rainbow Trout
Rainbow trout are a popular game fish that are prized for their fighting ability and taste. They are found throughout the Columbia River and its tributaries and can grow up to 20 inches long.
Brown Trout
Brown trout are a non-native species that were introduced to the Columbia River in the early 1900s. They are also popular game fish and can grow up to 20 inches long.
Bull Trout
Bull trout are a threatened species that are found in the upper reaches of the Columbia River and its tributaries. They are prized by anglers for their size and fight, but are protected and must be released if caught.
Walleye
Walleye are a popular game fish that were introduced to the Columbia River in the mid-1900s. They are found throughout the Columbia River and its tributaries and can grow up to 30 inches long.
Catfish
Catfish are a family of fish that are found throughout the Columbia River, and the river is home to two species of catfish:
Channel Catfish
Channel catfish are a popular sport fish that can grow up to 40 inches long. They are found throughout the Columbia River and its tributaries.
Flathead Catfish
Flathead catfish are a non-native species that were introduced to the Columbia River in the mid-1900s. They are found in the lower reaches of the Columbia River and its estuary and can grow up to 50 inches long.
To know more:
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- Is the Satsop River Open for Fishing?
FAQs
Are there any endangered fish species in the Columbia River?
Yes, several fish species in the Columbia River are listed as threatened or endangered, including bull trout and green sturgeon.
Can you eat the fish from the Columbia River?
Yes, many fish species in the Columbia River are safe to eat if they are cooked properly and from healthy populations.
Do I need a license to fish in the Columbia River?
Yes, a fishing license is required to fish in the Columbia River and its tributaries. The requirements may vary depending on where you plan to fish, so be sure to check with your local fishing regulations.
What is the best time of year to fish in the Columbia River?
The best time to fish in the Columbia River depends on the species you are targeting. Salmon and steelhead typically run in the late summer and fall, while trout and walleye can be caught year-round.
Can I catch fish in the Columbia River without a boat?
Yes, there are many places along the Columbia River and its tributaries where you can fish from shore. However, a boat can give you access to more productive fishing spots.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Columbia River is a vital resource for fish species and a popular destination for anglers. The river is home to a diverse range of fish, from iconic salmon and steelhead to prehistoric sturgeon and sport fish like trout, walleye, and catfish. However, it is important to manage and protect these fish populations to ensure their sustainability for future generations.
If you are an angler looking to fish in the Columbia River, make sure to check local fishing regulations and obtain a fishing license before heading out. And for those interested in conservation efforts, there are many organizations dedicated to protecting the Columbia River and its fish populations that you can get involved with. Let’s work together to ensure the continued health and vitality of this important natural resource.