The Astoria Salmon Derby runs each September in Astoria, Oregon, and welcomes anglers of all skill levels to fish the Columbia River for chinook and coho salmon

The Astoria Salmon Derby is an annual fishing event held in early September along the Columbia River in Astoria. The derby draws hundreds of recreational anglers who fish from boats and the riverbank for a chance to catch prize-winning salmon. Entry is open to anyone with a valid Oregon fishing license, and the event typically runs for one week, with weigh-ins at a central location in town.

The derby focuses on two species: chinook salmon (also called king salmon) and coho salmon (also called silver salmon). Both species run the Columbia River in September, making it an ideal time to fish. Prize money and merchandise go to anglers who catch the largest fish in each category, and there are often separate divisions for adults and youth.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a valid Oregon fishing license before you can enter the derby; licenses are sold online through the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife website and at local tackle shops.
  • The derby typically runs for seven days in early September, with specific dates announced by the Astoria-Warrenton Chamber of Commerce each spring.
  • Weigh-in locations and hours are set by the event organizers and posted at local businesses and online; fish must be weighed during official hours to count toward prizes.
  • Chinook and coho salmon are the target species, and both are abundant in the Columbia River during September, though river conditions and weather affect daily catch rates.
  • Entry fees vary by year and are used to fund prize pools and event operations; check the official event page for current costs.

How to Enter and What You Need

To fish the Astoria Salmon Derby, you must have a current Oregon recreational fishing license. You can purchase a license online through the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) website, by phone, or at local tackle shops and sporting goods stores in Astoria. Licenses are available as one-day, three-day, or annual permits; a one-day license is the most affordable option if you plan to fish only during derby week.

Entry into the derby itself requires paying an entry fee, which covers your participation and may be able to access for prizes. The fee is typically modest—usually between $10 and $25—but amounts change year to year. You register at the official weigh-in station or through the event organizers, usually the Astoria-Warrenton Chamber of Commerce. Bring your fishing license and a valid ID when you register.

If you do not own a boat, you can fish from the riverbank at public access points around Astoria, or you can hire a charter boat captain who knows the river and can take you to productive fishing grounds. Charter boats are available through local marinas and tackle shops; booking in advance is recommended, especially during derby week when demand is high.

When the Derby Runs and How to Find Exact Dates

The Astoria Salmon Derby takes place in early September each year. The exact dates shift slightly from year to year because the event is timed to coincide with peak salmon runs in the Columbia River. In recent years, the derby has run from the first Monday through the following Sunday of September, but this can vary.

To find the current year's dates, contact the Astoria-Warrenton Chamber of Commerce directly by phone or visit their website. Local tackle shops in Astoria also post derby information and dates. The chamber announces dates and rules each spring, so checking in late August ensures you have the correct schedule before you travel or book a charter.

Weigh-In Rules and Prize Categories

All fish must be weighed at the official weigh-in station during posted hours to count toward prizes. The weigh-in location is typically at a central Astoria business or the chamber office; the exact location is announced when the derby dates are confirmed. Weigh-ins usually run for several hours each evening and sometimes in the morning as well.

Fish are divided into categories by species (chinook and coho) and often by angler age (adult and youth). The largest fish in each category wins a prize. Some derbies also award prizes for second and third place in each division. Prizes are usually cash or merchandise from local businesses. You do not need to catch a fish to enter the derby, but only weighed fish are may be able to access for prizes.

Salmon must meet minimum size requirements set by Oregon fishing regulations. Chinook salmon must be at least 16 inches long, and coho salmon must be at least 12 inches long. Any fish below the legal minimum cannot be kept or weighed. The weigh-in staff will measure and verify each fish before recording it.

What Salmon Are Running in September

September is prime time for both chinook and coho salmon in the Columbia River. Chinook salmon (king salmon) are the larger species and can weigh anywhere from 10 to 50 pounds or more; they are prized for their size and fighting ability. Coho salmon (silver salmon) typically weigh 8 to 15 pounds and are also strong fighters and excellent eating fish.

Both species migrate upriver from the Pacific Ocean in late summer and early fall to spawn in freshwater tributaries. The Columbia River is a major migration corridor, which is why September fishing in Astoria can be productive. Water temperature, river flow, and recent rainfall all affect how many salmon are in the river on any given day. Local tackle shops can tell you about current conditions and where fish have been caught recently.

Fishing Techniques and Tackle for the Derby

The most common method for catching salmon in the Columbia River near Astoria is trolling—slowly moving a boat while dragging lures or bait behind it. Trolling covers more water and is effective for both chinook and coho. Anglers use medium to heavy spinning rods or baitcasting rods with 15- to 30-pound test line. Popular lures include spoons, plugs, and spinners in silver, chartreuse, and orange colors.

Bank fishing is also productive, especially near current breaks and deeper holes. From shore, you can cast spinners or spoons, or fish with live bait like herring or smelt under a bobber. A 7- to 8-foot medium-heavy rod works well for bank fishing. Bring a net or gaff to land larger fish safely.

If you hire a charter boat, the captain will provide tackle and know the best techniques for the current conditions. Charter fishing takes the guesswork out of where to fish and how to fish, making it a good choice if you are new to salmon fishing or unfamiliar with the Columbia River.

Preparing Your Catch for the Weigh-In

Once you catch a salmon, handle it carefully to keep it fresh until weigh-in. If you are fishing from a boat, place the fish on ice immediately in a cooler. If you are bank fishing, a stringer or a small cooler with ice will keep the fish in good condition. Do not let the fish sit in the sun or in warm water, as this degrades the meat and can affect the weight.

Keep the fish whole and intact until weigh-in; do not clean or fillet it beforehand. The weigh-in staff will weigh the whole fish as caught. After weigh-in, you can take the fish home to clean and cook. Many anglers bring their catch to a local fish processor or tackle shop to have it filleted and packaged for the freezer.

Local Resources and Where to Get Information

The Astoria-Warrenton Chamber of Commerce is the primary source for derby information, including dates, entry fees, rules, and weigh-in locations. They can be reached by phone or through their website, and they maintain an email list for derby updates.

Local tackle shops in Astoria carry fishing licenses, tackle, and bait, and the staff can answer questions about current river conditions and where fish have been caught. Shops often have derby flyers and entry forms on hand. Charter boat captains are another excellent resource; they fish the river daily and know where salmon are holding and what techniques are working.

The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife website has current fishing regulations, license information, and river condition updates. The ODFW also publishes weekly fishing reports for the Columbia River that describe what species are being caught and in what numbers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a fishing license if I am under 18?

Oregon requires a fishing license for all anglers 12 and older. Children under 12 can fish without a license if they are supervised by a licensed adult. Youth licenses are less expensive than adult licenses and are available for one day or longer periods.

Can I fish the derby from shore, or do I need a boat?

You can fish from shore at public access points along the Columbia River in and around Astoria. Bank fishing is productive during the derby, especially near deeper holes and current breaks. A boat is not required, though many anglers use boats to reach more productive areas.

What happens if I catch a fish that is too small to keep?

Fish below the legal minimum size must be released immediately. Chinook must be at least 16 inches and coho at least 12 inches. Measure your fish before bringing it in, or release it gently if it is undersized. Undersized fish do not count toward prizes.

How much does it cost to enter the derby?

Entry fees typically range from $10 to $25 per angler, though the exact amount varies by year. The fee covers your participation and may be able to access for prizes. Check with the Astoria-Warrenton Chamber of Commerce for the current year's fee before you register.

Can I hire a charter boat for the derby?

Yes, charter boats are available through local marinas and tackle shops in Astoria. Charter captains know the river well and can increase your chances of catching salmon. Book in advance during derby week, as demand is high. Charter costs vary but typically range from $150 to $300 per person for a full day.