They say the Columbia River holds surprises, and we found plenty on our trip to Buoy 10 with Captain Robert. My wife and I went out expecting a good day on the water, but it turned into something even better. The sun was shining, the river was calm, and we had our lines in the water with high hopes.

Before long, the action began. My rod bent sharply, and I knew I had hooked a big one. The fight was on, and soon enough, I pulled in a hefty coho salmon, followed by my wife reeling in her own impressive catch. These were no small fish—each one was big, strong, and put up a fun fight. Captain Robert guided us like a pro, and Molly, his energetic dog, kept us entertained with her antics between catches.

The day turned into one of those rare outings that exceed all expectations. The fish were big, the company was perfect, and every moment felt like an adventure. By the time we headed back, the cooler was full, our spirits were high, and we were already planning our next trip. It wasn’t just about the fish; it was about the fun, the thrill, and a day that couldn’t have gone any better.

It was a tough day with fog and fish that just didn’t seem to be hungry. Captain Bob didn’t let that dissuade him. He kept at it and found a spot where I caught my very first 2 Cohos ever. We had several take nipped but got away. He was knowledgeable and very helpful. Later in the day my companion caught her first 24” Coho and the other fisherman caught a couple that had to be tossed back , Jack’s. Inevitably got the largest catch of the day. Between the 4 of us and Captain Bob’s expertise and willingness to go above and beyond we caught 8 in total and got to keep 4.

We met Cap’n Bob (Robert) at Hammond Boat Bay and spent the day bottom fishing. The boat is comfortable, and Bob is incredibly knowledgeable about the area, water conditions, and how the currents change with the tides. As a bonus, we were treated to the captain’s dog Beau on this trip which was an unexpected surprise. We fished the Bouy 10 area, local jetties (thus pics of the seals) and even saw wales!  Even though it was a little slow that morning (we think the weather was too good), we still caught enough fish to go back and grill up an incredible lunch with enough leftovers for dinner. There are bigger boats out there, but spending the day with a guide who knows the area and where to look for fish is key. My son and I highly recommend Out Fishin’.  You won’t be disappointed.

We came out to Oregon to experience catch and release sturgeon fishing for the first time.  It was a great day to be fishing and it seemed we were the only boat catching them that morning.  Captain Robert Vernon was was great and his boat was clean.  He brought at least 3 different baits and to ensure we caught some sturgeon.  I think that contributed to us being successful.  Unlike some other charters we have been on in the past, this was one we enjoyed.  My sons are already talking with their friends to come out to do this again.  Thanks for the great day of fishing.

Some friends and I booked this trip hoping to just keep 3 fish. Bob got us on way more than that! We landed 6 keepers and probably let go 12 wild Cohos. We had multiple doubles and complete chaos. It was an absolute blast. Highly recommend if you’re looking for someone who knows the fishery.