Sandy River Fishing Guide

Why Pacific Drifter Guide Service Is the Top Choice for Your Sandy River Fishing Guide

Pacific Drifter Guide Service is your premier choice for a Sandy River fishing guide. Why? I’ve been fishing the Sandy River since I was a young boy, and now, living just 10 minutes from the river, I consider it my home river. Over the years, I’ve dedicated countless hours to fishing and studying the Sandy River system — from the confluence of the Salmon River, where it meets the Sandy, to the mouth of the Sandy where it enters the Columbia River. I know this river inside and out.

The Sandy River holds a special place in my heart, as it was the river my uncle introduced me to when I was a child. It was one of the rivers that made me want to become a Portland fishing guide in the first place. What sets me apart from other Sandy River fishing guides is my extensive experience on the river and my deep understanding of its unique features. From the timing of the various fish runs to knowing precisely what to use in different river conditions and seasons, my knowledge ensures a more successful and enjoyable fishing experience.

Book Now

What You Can Catch While Fishing on the Sandy River

Chinook Salmon

Chinook salmon fishing on the Sandy River offers an incredible way to spend the day in one of the most scenic tributaries of the Columbia River, just minutes from the Portland metro area. The Sandy River is home to spring- and fall-run Chinook salmon, making it a year-round fishing destination.

Spring Chinook salmon begin entering the Sandy River in April and continue through October, with peak spawning occurring from mid-September to mid-October. The fall run starts in September and lasts through December. Fishing typically occurs from a drift boat or raft, with prime stretches of water ranging from Revenue Bridge above Cedar Creek Hatchery to Lewis and Clark State Park.

The Sandy River is the perfect spot if you enjoy fishing in a beautiful, glacier-fed river surrounded by lush vegetation and battling hard-fighting spring salmon. After years of experience, I’ve learned precisely what these salmon want to eat and the best techniques to get them to bite. There’s nothing more thrilling than reeling in a chrome-fresh spring salmon as it peels the line off your reel.

The Sandy River’s spring run consists of native and hatchery fish, with Cedar Creek Hatchery releasing 200,000 smolts into the system annually. The fall Chinook run, however, is made up exclusively of native salmon. With such a robust spring run, both native and hatchery, and a fall run, the Sandy River is an excellent destination for targeting salmon in a unique tributary setting conveniently located near the city.

Coho Salmon

Coho fishing on the Sandy River is outstanding in the fall. The coho run begins in September and continues through December, with peak fishing occurring in October and November.

We will target coho on the Sandy River from Dodge Park down to Lewis and Clark State Park, using either a drift boat or a raft. This fishery offers a fun and accessible experience just a short distance from the Portland metro area. Fishing for coho with light tackle gear is an adrenaline-filled thrill, as every encounter offers an exciting challenge.

When the first fall rains arrive, coho flood into the Sandy River system on their journey upstream to spawn. With my years of experience on this river, I know exactly how to entice these coho to bite, which can sometimes be tricky. However, with the right tackle, I’m able to get these fish to open their mouths and take our bait.

The Sandy River’s coho population consists of both native and hatchery fish. The Sandy River Hatchery supplements the run with 200,000 coho smolts yearly, and peak spawning occurs during the first few weeks in November. The Sandy River is consistently packed with coho in the fall, making it an action-packed fishery. With my deep familiarity with the system and the best gear and bait, we’re sure to have an exciting and successful fishing trip.

Coho Salmon

Coho fishing on the Sandy River is outstanding in the fall. The coho run begins in September and continues through December, with peak fishing occurring in October and November.

Steelhead

Sandy River steelhead fishing is a must-do for any angler, whether you're an avid steelhead fisherman or visiting the Oregon Coast area. We can target the winter-run steelhead from late December through April and the summer-run steelhead from March through November.

Fishing will occur from Revenue Bridge above Cedar Creek Hatchery to Lewis and Clark State Park, using either a drift boat or raft. With both winter and summer runs of steelhead, the Sandy River offers year-round opportunities to catch these incredible fish.

If you’re passionate about steelhead fishing, the Sandy River should be at the top of your list. With my expertise, extensive experience on the river, and knowledge of steelhead fishing, you can be confident that I know exactly where to fish and the best methods to use to maximize our chances of success.

The Sandy River’s steelhead population consists of both native and hatchery fish. Cedar Creek Hatchery annually produces 160,000 winter steelhead smolts and acclimates an additional 75,000 summer steelhead. Combined with a strong native steelhead run, the Sandy River provides an exceptional setting for pursuing both steelhead runs. The Sandy River is my home river, and steelhead is my favorite fish to target, so let’s go catch a steelhead on the Sandy!

Book Now

Envision Your Sandy River Fishing Excursion

What Previous Anglers Have To Say About Fishing With Pacific Drifter on the Sandy River

“Had a great day of fishing on the Sandy River today with Jordan. No one was more surprised than us when we hooked four steelheads. He gave us a lot of guidance and help, which was much appreciated. Would definitely like to go again, had a great time.”

– Lorrie H.

“My sister and I had an awesome time with Captain Jordan! He was professional, patient, prepared, and kept in touch with me daily concerning the weather. It was touch and go for a while, but he made the right call to get us out there on the water. He also provided two heaters that came in very handy. He was determined for us to catch fish and as excited as we were when we caught four big steelhead, but lost one out of the 4. We would highly recommend him as a guide and plan to go again.”

– Chris P.

“My son and I had the fishing trip of a lifetime with Jordan Rose and Pacific Drifters. From start to finish, everything was top-notch. Jordan’s expertise, patience, and deep knowledge of Oregon’s rivers made all the difference, especially when targeting steelhead. A legendary fish and a legendary trip with Jordan!

The scenery was breathtaking—crystal-clear waters winding through rugged landscapes—but the real highlight was the fishing. Jordan put us right on the fish, teaching us the best techniques and giving us every opportunity to land these powerful, elusive fish. We were thrilled to hook into numerous steelhead, and by the last day, we had literally lost count.

Beyond the fishing, Jordan was an outstanding guide—professional, friendly, and truly passionate about what he did. Whether you're an experienced angler or new to the sport, Pacific Drifters and Jordan deliver an unforgettable experience. We can’t say enough great things! I highly recommend it.”

– Jeffery R.

“The hardest working guide I have ever met, this guy knows and teaches his clients how to fish, he is the best.”

– Randy B.

“Thanks for sharing your in-depth knowledge of the river and techniques on how to fish for steelhead on the Trask River in your drift boat. As a newbie, your instruction gave me the confidence to be able to cast and fish the right way. Your passion for sharing what you do makes you a great fishing guide. I can't wait to go on a charter again. Thanks for everything!”

– Aaron B.

See More 5-Star Reviews

Sandy River Fishing FAQs

Do You Provide Equipment?

I Have Kids That Are Interested in Fishing. Are They Allowed on Your Sandy River Fishing Charters?

What Should I Wear?

Always bring a layering system with rain gear when fishing on the Sandy River, even on hot, sunny days. While waders are preferred, they are not required. Rain gear is essential. The layering system is particularly useful because it allows you to adjust your clothing as needed — if it gets too warm, you can easily remove a layer. However, if you don’t bring warm clothes, you won’t have the option to add layers if the temperature drops.

What Is the Best Time To Fish on the Sandy River?

What Kind of Boat Will We Be Fishing With on the Sandy River?

Book Your Sandy River Fishing Adventure With Pacific Drifter Guide Service Today!

BOOKING REQUEST FORM:

BOOKING DEPOSIT:

A $55 per person non-refundable deposit is required to secure your reservation.

Deposits are non-refundable if canceled within 14 days of the trip.

Guide Services

Winter Steelhead
Spring Chinook Salmon
Summer Chinook Salmon
Fall Chinook & Coho Salmon
Sturgeon

Sandy River Fishing Guide

Why Pacific Drifter Guide Service Is the Top Choice for Your Sandy River Fishing Guide

What You Can Catch While Fishing on the Sandy River

Chinook Salmon

Coho Salmon

Coho Salmon

Steelhead

Envision Your Sandy River Fishing Excursion

What Previous Anglers Have To Say About Fishing With Pacific Drifter on the Sandy River

Sandy River Fishing FAQs

Book Your Sandy River Fishing Adventure With Pacific Drifter Guide Service Today!

BOOKING REQUEST FORM:

BOOKING DEPOSIT:

Guide Services

Popular Links

Find, Follow, Connect