What Ilwaco Marina Offers

Ilwaco Marina sits at the mouth of the Columbia River in southwestern Washington, about 90 minutes from Portland. It is the primary launching point for ocean fishing trips targeting salmon, halibut, and rockfish, and also serves as a base for river fishing. The marina operates year-round and handles both private boat launches and charter operations, with fuel, moorage, and tackle shops on-site.

The location matters because Ilwaco sits where the Columbia River meets the Pacific. That geography means you can fish river channels in the morning and ocean waters in the afternoon, or plan a full day in either environment. The marina itself is protected by the North Jetty, which creates calmer water for launching and mooring than you would find on the open coast.

Access is straightforward: the marina is located at 351 Howerton Avenue in Ilwaco, directly off Highway 101. Parking is available for vehicles with trailers, and the launch ramps are maintained by the Port of Ilwaco. There is no launch fee, though moorage, fuel, and services carry standard commercial rates.

Key Takeaways

  • Ilwaco Marina is the main public launch point for ocean fishing in southwestern Washington, with no launch fee and year-round access.
  • Salmon season runs spring through fall, with peak fishing typically May through September; halibut and rockfish seasons vary and require checking current regulations.
  • The marina offers fuel, moorage, and tackle shops, but bring your own food and plan for weather that can close the bar (the river mouth) for days at a time.
  • Charter boats operate from Ilwaco and handle all fishing logistics, making them a practical option if you do not own a boat or want to fish unfamiliar waters.
  • River fishing for sturgeon and walleye is possible from Ilwaco, but requires different tackle and knowledge than ocean fishing, and sturgeon has strict size and season limits.

Salmon and Halibut Seasons at Ilwaco

Salmon fishing from Ilwaco runs from spring through fall, with the strongest fishing typically May through September. Chinook (king) salmon are the primary target, followed by coho (silver) salmon. The exact opening dates and catch limits change year to year based on fish counts, so you must check the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) website before booking a trip or launching your boat.

Halibut fishing is a separate season, usually open June through October, though the exact dates and daily catch limits vary. Halibut fishing requires different tackle than salmon — heavier jigging gear and live or dead bait — and the fish are found in deeper water farther from shore. Most halibut trips depart early morning and spend 4 to 6 hours on the water.

Rockfish (also called rock cod or red snapper) are available year-round in some areas, but seasons and depth restrictions change. The WDFW publishes a detailed recreational fishing guide each year that lists all current seasons, daily limits, and size restrictions. Download it before you fish, because regulations change and enforcement is active.

Launching Your Boat and Marina Services

The Ilwaco Marina has two concrete launch ramps maintained by the Port of Ilwaco. Both ramps are suitable for trailers up to about 30 feet, and the ramps are kept clear of debris. Launching is free, but parking for vehicles with trailers fills quickly during peak season (May through September), especially on weekends. Arrive early or plan a weekday trip if possible.

Fuel is available at the marina fuel dock, with both gasoline and diesel. Prices are higher than inland stations but competitive with other coastal marinas. The marina also has a small tackle shop that stocks basic gear — hooks, weights, bait, and lures — though selection is limited. For specialized tackle or replacement gear, bring what you need or plan to buy in town.

Moorage is available for boats that need overnight or longer-term docking. Rates vary by slip size and season. The marina office can provide current pricing and availability. Restrooms and a fish-cleaning station are on-site, which is essential if you plan to keep your catch.

Weather and Bar Conditions

The Columbia River bar — the shallow, turbulent water where the river meets the ocean — is the main obstacle to fishing from Ilwaco. When ocean swells are large or wind is strong, the bar becomes too rough to cross safely, and the Coast Guard may close it to recreational traffic. This can happen for days or even weeks, especially in winter and early spring.

Check the Columbia River Bar Conditions report before launching. The NOAA website and local marina staff both publish real-time updates. If the bar is closed, you can still fish the river itself — the Columbia has sturgeon, walleye, and other species — but ocean fishing is off the table.

Weather in this region is wet and windy. Summer (June through August) is the most stable season, with calmer seas and more predictable conditions. Fall and spring can be productive but require flexibility and willingness to postpone trips. Winter fishing is possible but demands experience and proper gear.

River Fishing from Ilwaco

The Columbia River near Ilwaco holds sturgeon and walleye, and both are worth fishing if ocean conditions close the bar. Sturgeon fishing requires a separate license endorsement and has strict regulations: a minimum size of 42 inches, a maximum of 60 inches, and a daily limit of one fish. Sturgeon season runs year-round in some areas but is closed in others, so check WDFW regulations before fishing.

Walleye fishing is less regulated but less predictable. Walleye are present in the Columbia but are not the primary target for most anglers. They bite best at dawn and dusk, and require live bait or small lures. The river is wide and deep, so you need a boat to fish effectively.

River fishing requires different knowledge than ocean fishing — you need to understand tides, current, and where fish hold in moving water. If you are new to river fishing, a guide or charter captain familiar with the Columbia is worth the cost.

Charter Boats and Guided Fishing

If you do not own a boat or prefer not to launch your own, charter boats operate daily from Ilwaco. Most charters carry 4 to 12 passengers and fish for salmon, halibut, or rockfish depending on the season. The captain and crew handle navigation, tackle, and fish handling, so you show up with a fishing license and willingness to fish.

Charter trips typically run 6 to 8 hours and cost between $150 and $250 per person, though prices vary by season and target species. Halibut charters are usually more expensive than salmon charters because they fish farther offshore. Most charters provide basic tackle, but bring your own if you have preferences. Food and drinks are not always included, so ask when booking.

Charters are booked through individual operators or through the Ilwaco Chamber of Commerce, which maintains a list of licensed captains. Book in advance during peak season, especially for weekend trips. Cancellation policies vary, so read the terms before paying.

Licenses, Regulations, and Permits

You need a Washington Recreational Fishing License to fish in state waters, whether from a private boat or a charter. Licenses are sold online through the WDFW website, at the marina, and at sporting goods stores. A one-day license costs less than a full-year license, so day-trippers can buy short-term permits.

Some species require additional endorsements. Sturgeon fishing requires a separate endorsement, and salmon fishing in certain areas may require a Puget Sound endorsement or other designation. The WDFW website lists all requirements, and the marina staff can answer basic questions.

Catch limits, size restrictions, and seasonal closures change annually. The WDFW publishes a recreational fishing guide each year that covers all current rules. Download it before you fish, and check the WDFW website for any in-season changes or emergency closures.

Getting There and Planning Your Trip

Ilwaco is located at the southwestern tip of Washington, about 90 minutes from Portland, Oregon, and 2.5 hours from Seattle. From Portland, take I-5 north to Longview, then Highway 432 west to Ilwaco. From Seattle, take I-5 south to Longview, then Highway 432 west. The drive is straightforward but passes through rural areas with limited services, so fuel up before leaving town.

Plan to arrive at the marina at least 30 minutes before your intended launch time, especially if you are unfamiliar with the ramps or if it is a busy weekend. Parking for vehicles with trailers is limited, and the ramps can have a queue during peak hours. If you are taking a charter, arrive 15 minutes before departure and confirm the meeting location with the captain.

Bring more water and food than you think you will need. The marina has limited food options, and once you are on the water, you cannot leave to get supplies. Sunscreen, rain gear, and a hat are essential year-round. In summer, the sun reflects off the water and burns quickly. In other seasons, rain and wind are the main concerns.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fish the Columbia River from shore near Ilwaco?

Yes, but access is limited. Some areas near the marina allow shore fishing for sturgeon and walleye, but most productive fishing requires a boat. The river is wide and deep, and fish are scattered across the channel. Check WDFW regulations for current shore-fishing areas and any seasonal restrictions.

What should I do if the bar is closed when I arrive?

Call the marina or check the NOAA bar conditions report before you drive. If the bar is closed, you can fish the river itself for sturgeon and walleye, or postpone your trip. Some anglers keep a backup plan for river fishing in case ocean conditions deteriorate.

Do I need to clean my fish at the marina?

The marina has a fish-cleaning station, but you can also clean your catch at home. If you keep fish, bring a cooler with ice. The cleaning station is free to use, but bring your own knife or ask the marina staff if they have one available.

What is the best time of year to fish from Ilwaco?

Summer (June through August) offers the most stable weather and the longest fishing window. Salmon fishing peaks May through September. Halibut season runs June through October. If you want fewer crowds and do not mind variable weather, spring (April and May) and fall (September and October) are productive and less busy.

Can I rent a boat at Ilwaco Marina?

The marina itself does not rent boats, but charter boats are available for hire. If you want to fish from your own boat but do not own one, renting from a private operator or fishing club may be an option — ask the marina office for referrals. Charter boats are the most straightforward option for visitors.