We operate Columbia River Fishing Adventures with a singular focus: delivering premier guided fishing experiences throughout the Columbia River system. Fishing from the mouth of the river near Astoria upriver to The Dalles Dam and Rufus, we guide anglers through every major salmon run as well as renowned sturgeon and walleye fisheries. Our background spans more than three decades on these waters, and as licensed and insured professionals certified in CPR and First Aid, we prioritize both safety and performance. Each trip reflects our deep understanding of seasonal patterns, river conditions, and fish behavior, allowing us to consistently provide productive and rewarding outings.
Our services include targeted trips for Spring Chinook, Summer Chinook, and Fall Chinook, in addition to year-round sturgeon and walleye charters. From keeper sturgeon seasons in the Bonneville Pool and near Astoria to expansive catch-and-release opportunities across more than 150 miles of river, we tailor each excursion to our clients goals. Walleye trips from Rufus offer exceptional table fare and trophy potential, particularly during the pre-spawn period. We supply top-tier boats and equipment, welcome anglers of all experience levels, and strive to ensure every guest enjoys a successful, well-organized, and thoroughly professional day on the water.
Highlights and features
- Year-round guided fishing trips on Columbia River
- Expert U.S. Coast Guard licensed captains
- High-success trips for salmon, sturgeon, walleye
- Over 20 years of professional fishing experience
- Catch and release or keeper sturgeon options
- Family-friendly adventures with top-rated local guides
Payment methods
- Cash
- Debit cards
- Credit cards
Services
We specialize in fully guided salmon fishing adventures across the Columbia River, covering waters from the mouth at Buoy 10 upriver toward the Snake River. Throughout spring, summer, and fall, we target Chinook and Coho during their peak runs, focusing on proven locations such as Bonneville Dam, The Gorge, and key river mouths. Our service is tailored to your goals, whether you seek steady action or trophy-class fish. By supplying gear and expert guidance, we create a seamless and professional fishing experience. 
Our Sturgeon Fishing Guide service delivers an unforgettable experience on the Columbia River, where we pursue both keeper and catch-and-release trophy sturgeon. With years of experience on our home waters, we know where these prehistoric giants hold and how to put you on the fish. We supply the expertise and equipment so you can fully enjoy the excitement of landing these powerful fish. 
We specialize in delivering exceptional walleye fishing experiences on the Columbia River, targeting some of the largest and most abundant populations in the Pacific Northwest. Our guided trips emphasize both quality and quantity, from keeper-sized fish to potential record contenders. By adapting to seasonal patterns and river conditions, we ensure consistent action and rewarding days on the water.
People
Buddy Dupell
Fishing Guide for Salmon, Sturgeon, Walleye
I spent my childhood fishing for salmon and sturgeon in the Willamette River in northwest Oregon. As a youngster, I recall observing a few fishing guides on the Columbia River and feeling that they had the most desirable job. At just 8 years old, I already knew what I wanted for my future.
I am now a professional fishing guide, many years later. Honestly, after guiding for years, I still feel fortunate to make a living from fishing. It feels like a dream. I am passionate about my work, and those who have fished with me can attest to the enthusiasm and energy I bring to the river every day. I cannot imagine a more enjoyable way to spend the day than catching a large sturgeon or salmon.
I am now a professional fishing guide, many years later. Honestly, after guiding for years, I still feel fortunate to make a living from fishing. It feels like a dream. I am passionate about my work, and those who have fished with me can attest to the enthusiasm and energy I bring to the river every day. I cannot imagine a more enjoyable way to spend the day than catching a large sturgeon or salmon.
Reviews (14)
Evo Gene
Nov 10, 2025
Anthony Smith
Sep 16, 2025
Betsy Leavitt
Jun 17, 2025
Wow - What a great experience!!! Sturgeon fishing was incredible. Buddy and Travis were amazing and the fishing was great. We will be talking about this fishing adventure for years to come. It was a wonderful day on the water, creating memories that will last a lifetime. We will definitely be back for a different fishing season.
Kirk Neerings
Jun 03, 2025
Ryan Heintz
May 02, 2025
Two buddies and I went on back to back fishing day trips (walleye/sturgeon) with CRFA, and I can say without reservation they were some of the best experiences Ive had on the water. Travis and Buddy were amazing guides that put us on fish, kept us on fish, and were awesome to talk to and gave fantastic instruction on how to be successful throughout the day.
Professional in every sense of the word, yet easy going to the point that you felt you were out there with another one of your friends. I would absolutely recommend them and our crew is already thinking another trip for other species should be in the works sooner rather than later.
Also shout out to Dug the Dog, chillest first mate Ive had on a boat.
Professional in every sense of the word, yet easy going to the point that you felt you were out there with another one of your friends. I would absolutely recommend them and our crew is already thinking another trip for other species should be in the works sooner rather than later.
Also shout out to Dug the Dog, chillest first mate Ive had on a boat.
David DeFillipo
Jan 11, 2025
My group of buddies and I have always dreamed about catching sturgeon but we just didnt know how to make that dream a reality. We came across Buddys website online and saw all of the positive reviews, and we knew that he was the guide we needed to use!
Buddy went above and beyond all of those positive reviews and gave us the fishing day of a lifetime. Our 6 guys tagged out on keeper sturgeon in an hour, and we are so so happy with the trip!
We will definitely be booking with them again for the other trips and could not recommend Buddy any more! Amazing guide!
Buddy went above and beyond all of those positive reviews and gave us the fishing day of a lifetime. Our 6 guys tagged out on keeper sturgeon in an hour, and we are so so happy with the trip!
We will definitely be booking with them again for the other trips and could not recommend Buddy any more! Amazing guide!
Amanda Gibbs
Nov 08, 2024
We had an amazing day salmon fishing with Buddy! My dad, my sister and I celebrated Father's Day and my dad's 70th birthday on the river, and my dad called it "the trip of a lifetime." We each brought back a 20+ lb king salmon (and one tasty sockeye). I highly recommend spending a day with Buddy--he's an expert guide and great guy to spend a day with on the river!
Jessica Schempf
Oct 02, 2024
We had a great time fishing with Buddy on the Columbia for Walleye. He was easy to communicate, super knowledgeable and friendly. His dog Dug was out with us as well which was a great bonus. Buddy got us on some walleye and even a handful of bass and perch. His boat is nice and spacious, comfortable too. Well definitely be booking another trip with Buddy and Dug.
David Gardner
Jul 04, 2024
Me and 5 friends went fishing with Buddy at Columbia River Fishing Adventures yesterday. The trip was wonderful, exciting and the best fishing guide Ive ever gone out with. We all caught large keeper Sturgeon. Buddy is amazing, he knew exactly where the fish were and we all tagged out in about an hour. Buddy and all his equipment is all top notch, and we plan to go fishing with Buddy (CRFA) in the near future. Thanks Buddy for a great trip.
Sabyasachi Mallick
Jan 07, 2024
We had an amazing experience. Hit our limit in no time. Buddy knows exactly what he is doing and the real fact - how to get fish for you
He is an excellent guy, someone who is honest and friendly as well.
I am looking forward with my friends for the next adventure with Buddy sometime soon again.
Thanks Buddy!!
He is an excellent guy, someone who is honest and friendly as well.
I am looking forward with my friends for the next adventure with Buddy sometime soon again.
Thanks Buddy!!
Melinda Watson
Dec 29, 2023
We have fished with Buddy and Travis 5 times now and every trip has been amazing!! We started with a couple sturgeon trips which absolutely exceeded our expectations. If you have never caught a sturgeon before I highly recommend you get yourself a trip booked! Its an experience of a lifetime! We have also done a salmon trip and most recently a walleye trip. Every time we get on the boat with them it feels like we are just out fishing with some friends! Buddy and Travis are some of the kindest, hardest working guides we have ever met! They will forever have a returning client with our family.
Jeromy Taylor
Nov 03, 2023
Guided Fishing trip Columbia River. Buddy is amazing, good time on the boat no stress of a guide yelling or pressure to do the right thing, entertaining, friendly and FINDS.. the FISH. When others are struggling to find the fish, CRFA makes it happen. Puts in the work before and during the trip. Reccomend 100% and will continue to use for all fishing thru the entire Columbia River fishery. 6 stars!
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Rob Jodsaas
Oct 12, 2023
CRFA guided my group on both Walleye and Salmon adventures. The guides Buddy and Travis were extremely knowledgeable of the area and what the fish were biting on. Travis and buddy went out of there way to make our trip as successful as possible and the results showed. We each caught our limit on Salmon as well as a pile of Walleye each day on the water. Their professionalism and company was a joy the entire time on the water, not to mention top of the line boats and gear! If your looking for a incredible fishing experience on the Columbia River, this is the outfit for you. I will definitely return for more Columbia River Fishing Adventures!!!! Thanks again Buddy and Travis, it was the BEST!
Kyle Pinter
Aug 18, 2023