Ed Iman Guide Service

Early spring brings serious Walleye fishermen to The Columbia River in pursuit of one of "the finest eating freshwater fish available." This time of year, known as the "pre-spawn" period, also presents the finest fishing action for the species. This is due in part to the availability of larger concentrations of fish in smaller areas.  As water temperatures slowly climb to 36-38 degrees Fahrenheit, Walleye begin their spawning runs from the lower reaches of impoundment's towards the tailraces of dams. It is here where they will find good spawning gravel and rock, aerated water and a good food supply. When the temperature reaches 44-46 degrees, the Walleye will be getting ready for spawning and some may already have. Either way, this is prime time to catch good numbers of fish. Fishing techniques for the early part of runs emphasize vertical jigging. Your choice of jigs may not be as critical as your technique, but some consideration to size and color should be carefully thought out. In the high and muddy waters of February and early March, I usually have better results with high visibility colors, such as chartreuse, fluorescent green or red, or a fluorescent pink and white combination. When the water clears, a myriad of colors will produce fish, but the greens and chartreuse's remain my favorites as the river always has a darker cast to it at the depths we find fish.