Where We Fish

Fishing Guide in Ilwaco, Washington

Head out from Ilwaco for a premier saltwater salmon and steelhead fishing adventure where the Columbia meets the Pacific.

On the Water

Fishing Ilwaco, Washington

Ilwaco sits at the mouth of the mighty Columbia River, offering a unique blend of freshwater and saltwater fishing opportunities. We target migrating salmon, including Chinook and Coho, as they make their final run upriver. Steelhead also pass through these waters, especially during their fall and winter migrations. Trips from Ilwaco often involve heading out into the ocean for salmon or working the rich waters of the Columbia River estuary. The bite can be fast and furious when the fish are running, with prime times typically in the late summer and fall for salmon, and the fall through spring for steelhead.

Trip Options

Important information

What We Provide

  • A boat rigged and ready for the day's fishing
  • Rods, reels, and tackle for every angler
  • All bait, ice, and terminal tackle
  • Bottled water and cold drinks
  • A licensed captain who knows the water

What to Bring

  • Sunglasses, sunscreen & a hat
  • Food and drinks in a soft cooler
  • Weather-appropriate clothing and a light jacket
  • Non-marking, closed-toe shoes
  • Your camera — and a sense of adventure
  • Your fishing license for the day
Have a custom trip in mind? Call and we'll set it up.

Fishing Ilwaco, Washington with Go Fishing With Dave

Local Knowledge

We know Cowlitz & Columbia River waters and how the bite changes with the season and conditions.

On the Water Daily

Based in Cowlitz & Columbia River and running trips all season long.

All Experience Levels

From first-timers and kids to seasoned anglers, we tailor the trip to your crew.

4.2★ Google Rating

Rated 4.2 out of 5 on Google from 20 reviews.

Rated 4.2 stars on Google

What Anglers Say

“Dave and Bodie gave us a great trip. Very friendly and knowledgeable. Top of the line equipment and service including deck hand Bodie. I would recommend him/them, no need to look anymore. Thanks Dave and Bodie”
Bill Eaton
Verified Google Review
“Great guide, really worked hard to get us opportunities . Clean well organized boat, very knowledgeable and showed up on time. I would not hesitate to recommend Dave to friends and family!”
Pat Hobbs
“Great guide, helpful and friendly. Will be going back for years to come.”
Benjamin Richins
“Been fishing with Dave going into third year multiple times a year. To date he has never failed to impress, and he has always put us on the fish. With alot of the trips going into “Absolutely epic status”And some absolutely great memories with my friends and my family Just had…”
Scott Macgowan
“One of the best steelhead fisherman in Southwest Washington”
Scott Stulgis
“Had a great time fishing steelhead with dave for steelhead on the Cowlitz great guy with alot of knowledge”
Andy Zuanich

Fishing Ilwaco, Washington FAQ

What is the best time of year to fish out of Ilwaco?
For salmon, late summer through fall is generally best. Steelhead fishing is good from fall through spring.
What kind of fishing experience can I expect from Ilwaco?
Expect a dynamic experience, potentially fishing the ocean for salmon or working the Columbia River estuary for both salmon and steelhead.
Do you offer Sturgeon fishing near Ilwaco?
While salmon and steelhead are our primary focus out of Ilwaco, Sturgeon are abundant in the Columbia River, and we can arrange trips targeting them when conditions are right.
Book your trip with Go Fishing With Dave today.

Ready to Get on the Water?

Dates fill up fast in season. Reach out to Go Fishing With Dave to lock in your charter.

Fishing trip photo from October 10, 2026