Plunking
Learn to Fish

Spring Chinook Plunking Clinic - Sauvie Island

Every spring, Chinook salmon, also known as ‘springers', begin their migration up the Columbia River. These large and powerful fish are prized for their impressive fight and their reputation as one of the best tasting fish in the world. You've probably seen rows of boats fishing for them, but did you know that a boat isn't necessary to target them? You can catch them right off the beach!

ODFW partners with the Tualatin Valley Chapter of the Association of Northwest Steelheaders (ANWS) to give you a day of hands-on experience fishing for springers on Sauvie Island Beach. During this workshop we'll teach a technique referred to as ‘plunking' to target spring Chinook, but you can use this method to fish for steelhead and other salmonids as well in many Oregon rivers.

We have all the equipment you need, but if you have your own plunking gear, you're encouraged to bring it and we'll show you how to use it.

Sign-in begins at 7:30 AM on April 5th - followed by a brief instructional talk and gear set up, and then we're off to fish! A detailed email of the plan of the day and further instructions will be provided to all registrants 1-2 weeks before the event.

Your workshop fee includes: instruction, use of ODFW equipment and program materials, a bag of plunking gear, lunch, and a one-year membership to ANWS.

*Anglers aged 17 years and younger are eligible to participate, must be accompanied by an adult 21 years or older.

WHAT TO BRING:

  • Appropriate clothing and footwear. This is an outdoor event with potential for cold, wind, and rain. Oregon weather can be unpredictable, so please dress accordingly!
  • Snacks (a sack lunch WILL be provided)
  • Your own water bottle
  • ODFW Wildlife Area Parking Permit: Click here to learn about ODFW Wildlife Area Parking Permits
  • License is required
    • All anglers 12 and older need: a valid angling license, a combined angling harvest tag, and a Columbia River Basin Endorsement
    • All anglers under 12 need: a combined angling harvest tag and a Columbia River Basin Endorsement

ANWS contact email: Don Schaefer - donaldsc1@comcast.net

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