Striped Bass

While Washington State might not be the first place that comes to mind for striped bass, the fishery near Ilwaco at the mouth of the Columbia River is a unique and burgeoning one. Stripers here are typically found in the brackish waters of the lower river and near the jetties at the river's mouth. The best time to target them is during the late summer and early fall when the river is lower and the water is warmer. Focus your efforts around structure, such as pilings, riprap, and submerged logs. Casting swimbaits, crankbaits, or even live bait like anchovies can be effective. Given the strong currents of the Columbia, be sure to use appropriate weights to keep your bait in the strike zone. Access is readily available from the Ilwaco Marina, and there are several fishing piers along the river. The striped bass population here is relatively new, so practicing catch and release is highly encouraged to help the fishery thrive.