Fishing Charters in Washington
Browse fishing charters in Washington that can help you catch channel catfish.


Morenot Usa/Nafs
Seattle, Washington
Mørenot is a global provider of solutions and services to the global fishing, aquaculture and seismic industries. We are present with departments within sales-, service- and production all parts of the world, and we are around 800 dedicated employees worldwide.


Fin Natic Fishing
La Push, Washington
Experience the thrill of deep sea fishing with Fin-natic Fishing. Book your offshore fishing charter today and catch the fish of your dreams!


Becharof Rapids Camp
Hoquiam, Washington
We are the premiere remote fly-in fishing camp located on the outlet of Becharof Lake on the Egegik River in Southwestern Alaska (Bristol Bay region). Becharof Lake is the second largest lake in Alaska. One of the largest run of Sockeye salmon in the world swim by our front door, among other species to be caught are silver salmon, king salmon, lake trout, grayling, artic char, and rainbow trout. The camp has private cabins, hot running water, toilets, showers and home cooked meals.


Another Adventure Outdoors
Olympia, Washington


Washington Tuna Charters
Snoqualmie, Washington


Faraway Fly Fishing
Lynden, Washington
Faraway Fly Fishing specializes in connecting worldwide anglers with the finest fly fishing trips, guides and lodges around the world!


Falls Creek Outdoors
Kennewick, Washington
Home


Rs Outdoors
Yakima, Washington


Cascade Fishing Guides
Snohomish, Washington


Hng Outdoors
Othello, Washington


Home Water Guide Service Fishing
Kalama, Washington


Waters West Guide Service
Vancouver, Washington
columbia river fishing guide, columbia river spring chinook,Homepage for Waters West Guide Service located in Western Washington on the Wynoochee River famous for winter and summer run steelhead, washington state fishing guides, cowlitz river fishing guides, washington state river guides, washington state fishing salmon, cowlitz river, fishing cowlitz river, steelhead, cowlitz river springers, cowlitz steelhead
Best Time to Catch Channel Catfish
Channel Catfish can be caught year-round in Vancouver. Right now in February, activity is Slow.
Seasonal Activity Chart

Channel Catfish
If you're after channel catfish near Vancouver, Washington, the Columbia River is your primary destination. This large river system holds a healthy population of catfish, offering anglers a chance to hook into some sizable fish. The warmer months of summer and early fall are prime time for catfishing, as the fish become more active and feed aggressively. Focus your efforts on areas with deep holes, submerged structure, and slower currents. Look for areas near the mouths of tributaries or around bridge pilings, as these spots often hold catfish. Popular baits include nightcrawlers, chicken liver, and commercially prepared catfish baits. A sturdy rod and reel are essential, as channel cats can put up a strong fight. Try fishing near Frenchman's Bar Regional Park, which offers good bank access and boat launch facilities. Be mindful of the river's strong currents and boat traffic. Local tip: a slip-sinker rig with a circle hook is a popular and effective setup for targeting catfish in the Columbia.
How to Catch Channel Catfish
Detailed fishing techniques coming soon for Channel Catfish in Vancouver.
Channel Catfish Fishing Regulations in Washington
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
No limit
Size Limit
No size limit
License Required
Freshwater fishing license
No closed season or size/catch limits, but check specific water body regulations for exceptions.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the Washington state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in Washington
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best bait for catching channel catfish in the Vancouver area?
Channel catfish are known for their diverse diet, but common and effective baits include nightcrawlers, chicken liver, stink baits, and cut bait. Experiment to see what the catfish are biting on that day.
Are there any limits on the size or number of channel catfish I can keep in Washington?
No, in Washington, there are currently no size or bag limits for channel catfish. You can keep as many as you catch.
Do I need a fishing license to catch channel catfish near Vancouver, WA?
Yes, you need a valid Washington freshwater fishing license to fish for channel catfish in the Vancouver area. Be sure to have it with you while fishing.
Where are some good places to fish for channel catfish around Vancouver?
The Columbia River is a popular spot for channel catfish near Vancouver. Look for areas with deep holes, submerged structure, and slower currents.
Is there a specific time of year that's best for catching channel catfish in the Vancouver area?
The best time to fish for channel catfish is generally during the warmer months, particularly in the late spring and summer. They tend to be more active when the water temperatures are higher.
More Channel Catfish Fishing in Washington
Other Species to Fish in Vancouver
Ready to Catch Channel Catfish in Vancouver?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.



