Cold Weather Fishing Ideas

Yes, temps have been in the 20s today.

Yes, it is really hard to fish in the ice and snow. I am not talking about going out today, but soon!

Did you know that you can head out to do some sturgeon fishing already? A short drive down to the Columbia is all it takes this month as the fishery opened Feb. 1 for retention of one legal-size fish a day.

This is a great time to go, especially if you like the river to yourself. It's cold, after all.

According to the Washington Fish and Wildlife Department, the section that opened extends from McNary Dam upstream to Priest Rapids Dam on the Columbia River. Don't forget the short section upstream to Ice Harbor Dam on the Snake River, but there are closer launch options if you stick to the Columbia. Fishing had already opened downriver from Bonneville Dam to McNary Dam. So far according to WDFW, the cold weather has kept catch rates low with fewer brave souls willing to brave this big bad winter.

The best time to fish is NOW before the quotas are met. Especially if you waited and got burned last year.

Of course, don't forget that we will all be headed to the Sundome for the Central Washington Sportsmen Show, Feb. 17-19. WDFW always does clinics and you can always find the areas best guides throughout the event, plus lots of outfitters bring clearance gear. See you there, and tight lines!