What Hammond Marina Offers

Hammond Marina sits on the Columbia River in Hammond, Oregon, about 10 miles upstream from the river's mouth at Astoria. The facility operates a public boat launch, moorage slips, and fuel dock, making it the primary access point for anglers targeting salmon, sturgeon, and bottomfish in the lower Columbia. The marina is open year-round and handles both trailerable boats and larger vessels that stay moored.

The launch ramp itself is concrete, well-maintained, and typically uncrowded except during peak salmon season (September through November). Parking is available for vehicles with trailers, though spaces fill quickly on weekends during the fall run. The marina charges a launch fee per use; day-use rates vary seasonally, with higher fees during peak fishing periods.

Key Takeaways

  • Hammond Marina is the main public boat launch for lower Columbia River fishing, located 10 miles upstream from the river mouth near Astoria.
  • The facility operates a concrete launch ramp, fuel dock, and moorage slips year-round, with parking for trailered boats and a day-use fee structure.
  • Fall chinook salmon (September–November) and sturgeon (year-round) are the primary target species, though bottomfish and steelhead are also caught from this location.
  • Tides and river conditions change rapidly on the lower Columbia; check current conditions and tide tables before launching, especially in fall when water levels fluctuate.
  • The marina is operated by the Port of Astoria; contact them directly for current launch fees, moorage rates, fuel availability, and any seasonal closures or maintenance work.

Salmon and Sturgeon Seasons at Hammond

Fall chinook salmon are the signature fishery at Hammond Marina. The run typically peaks from mid-September through October, with fish still present into November. Anglers fish from boats using both trolling and anchoring methods, targeting fish in the main channel and side channels near the marina. The average fall chinook weighs 35 to 50 pounds, though larger fish are caught regularly.

White sturgeon fishing is available year-round from Hammond, with the best results typically from April through June and again in September and October. Sturgeon are bottom-feeders; anglers anchor in deeper holes and use fresh herring, shad, or lamprey as bait. Fish range from 3 to 6 feet long, and regulations require a sturgeon tag purchased through Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Bottomfish—primarily lingcod, rockfish, and cabezon—are caught in the deeper water below Hammond, especially during slack tide periods. Steelhead move through the lower Columbia in winter and spring, though they are less commonly targeted from Hammond Marina than from upriver locations.

Tides, Water Conditions, and Safety

The lower Columbia River is tidal to Bonneville Dam, about 40 miles upstream. Hammond Marina sits in the tidal zone, meaning water level and current direction change dramatically with the tide cycle. Slack tide—the brief period when current reverses—is the safest and most productive time to fish. Fishing during strong ebb or flood tide is possible but requires experience and a capable boat.

River conditions change rapidly. Heavy rain in the Cascade Range can raise water levels and increase current speed within hours. Winter storms can make the lower Columbia dangerous for small boats. Check the National Weather Service forecast for the lower Columbia and the NOAA tide tables for Hammond before you launch. Local tackle shops near the marina can provide current conditions and advice on whether the river is fishable that day.

The bar at the river mouth—where the Columbia meets the Pacific—is notoriously rough and should not be crossed in small boats or during poor weather. Stay well upstream of the bar, and be aware that ocean swells can affect conditions even several miles inland during storms.

Launch Ramp Details and Parking

The concrete launch ramp at Hammond Marina has two lanes and is maintained by the Port of Astoria. The ramp is wide enough for most trailered boats up to 30 feet, though larger vessels may require assistance or use of the moorage slips instead. The ramp angle is moderate and suitable for boats with standard trailers.

Parking for vehicles with trailers is available in a dedicated lot adjacent to the launch. Spaces are limited and fill quickly on weekends during fall salmon season. There is no overnight parking for trailers at the day-use area. If you plan to leave your vehicle and trailer for more than a few hours, contact the marina office about parking options or consider using moorage if you are staying longer.

The marina has a fuel dock with gasoline and diesel available during business hours. Restrooms and a small convenience area are on-site. No fish-cleaning stations are provided at the launch area, though some local businesses in Hammond offer cleaning services for a fee.

Regulations and Required Documents

Oregon requires all anglers 12 and older to carry a valid fishing license. A Salmon Stamp is required to fish for salmon in Oregon waters. A Sturgeon Tag is required to keep sturgeon and must be purchased before you fish; tags are limited in number and sold on a first-come basis through Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Boat registration is required for all motorized vessels in Oregon. Carry proof of registration and your boat's documentation on board. Life jackets are required for all occupants, and the boat must have proper navigation lights if you fish at dawn or dusk.

Catch limits and size restrictions change annually and vary by species and location. Check the current Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations before you fish. The lower Columbia has specific rules for chinook and sturgeon; some areas have slot limits or mandatory catch-and-release periods. The Port of Astoria or local tackle shops can provide the current regulations specific to Hammond Marina.

Getting to Hammond Marina and Nearby Services

Hammond Marina is located at 1 Westshore Road, Hammond, Oregon 97121, about 10 miles west of Astoria on US Route 101. From Astoria, take Highway 101 west toward the coast; Hammond is clearly signed. The drive from Portland is approximately 90 minutes via I-5 and Highway 30.

Astoria, 10 miles east, has hotels, restaurants, fuel, and tackle shops. The Astoria-Warrenton area also has a second public boat launch at Warrenton Marina if Hammond is full or closed for maintenance. Camping is available at nearby state parks and private RV facilities. Most services close by early evening, so plan your trip accordingly if you need fuel or supplies.

Cell phone service is available but can be spotty near the river. Download offline maps and tide tables before you arrive. The nearest hospital is in Astoria.

Contacting the Marina and Planning Your Visit

Hammond Marina is operated by the Port of Astoria. Contact them directly for current launch fees, moorage rates, fuel availability, and any seasonal closures or maintenance schedules. The Port's phone number and website are listed on the Port of Astoria's official site.

Call ahead during peak season (September–November) to confirm the ramp is open and to ask about current river conditions. Local tackle shops in Astoria and Hammond can provide real-time information about fish activity, water conditions, and what gear is working that week. Many shops rent boats if you do not have your own.

Plan to arrive early on weekends, especially in fall. The launch lot fills by mid-morning during peak salmon season. If you are new to the lower Columbia, consider hiring a guide for your first trip; guides know the tides, the productive fishing areas, and the safest routes on the river.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the launch fee at Hammond Marina?

Launch fees vary by season and are set by the Port of Astoria. Fees are higher during peak salmon season (fall) than during other times of year. Contact the Port directly for current rates, as they change annually. Day-use parking is separate from the launch fee.

Can I fish for salmon year-round from Hammond?

Fall chinook are the main salmon fishery, running September through November. Spring chinook and coho are present at other times but in smaller numbers and with different regulations. Check Oregon's current sport fishing regulations for open seasons and catch limits before you fish.

Do I need a boat to fish at Hammond Marina?

Yes, Hammond Marina is a boat launch facility. All fishing in the lower Columbia from this location requires a motorized or rowing boat. If you do not have your own boat, several charter and rental services operate from Astoria and Hammond.

What should I do if the launch ramp is closed?

Warrenton Marina, about 5 miles away, has a second public launch on the Columbia. Contact the Port of Astoria to confirm which launch is open before you drive to the river. Closures are usually brief and related to maintenance or extreme weather.

Is it safe to fish the lower Columbia in a small boat?

The lower Columbia is tidal and can have strong currents and rough conditions, especially during storms or when the bar is active. Fish during slack tide, check weather and tide forecasts before launching, and do not cross the bar. If you are inexperienced, hire a guide or fish with someone who knows the river.