Largemouth Bass

While the Nehalem River is best known for its salmon and steelhead runs, don't overlook the opportunity to chase largemouth bass in the sloughs and backwaters connected to the river. These areas, often choked with vegetation and featuring calm, shallow water, provide ideal habitat for largemouth. Focus your efforts on bodies of water such as Lost Lake or the back channels of the Nehalem River. Summer is typically the best time for largemouth, as the water warms up and the fish become more active. Topwater lures, spinnerbaits, and plastic worms are all effective choices. Be prepared for some thick vegetation, and consider using heavier tackle to pull fish out of the cover. A kayak or canoe is ideal for navigating these shallow, weedy areas. Keep an eye out for the occasional tidal influence even this far upriver, as the changing water levels can impact fish activity. Largemouth bass in the Nehalem area may not reach trophy sizes, but they provide consistent action and a fun angling experience.