Winter Steelhead and Monster Sturgeon Action

Experience the fun of the Pacific Northwest with Josh Buttars, a premier fishing guide with over 10 years of professional captaincy and a lifetime of local knowledge. From the fast-moving currents of the Snake River to the expansive reaches of the Columbia River, Josh provides a top-tier guided fishing experience tailored to your skill level. Whether you are chasing a trophy catch or looking for a relaxing day on the water, our service is fully licensed, insured, and dedicated to providing a safe, high-end adventure for every guest. Our calendar is built around the legendary runs that make this region a world-class destination. We specialize in targeting Spring Chinook when they are at their peak of flavor and fight, as well as the massive Fall Salmon runs that draw anglers from across the globe. During the warmer months, we pivot to Summer Steelhead and aggressive Smallmouth Bass, ensuring that no matter when you visit, there is a "killer" bite waiting for you. We also offer specialized trips for Sturgeon and excursions near the Pacific Ocean for those seeking a diverse saltwater-to-freshwater experience. Comfort and speed are essential when navigating the best honey holes. You will fish aboard a 25' Wyatt Water Guide Sled, powered by a Yamaha 250hp main engine and a 9.9hp kicker for precision trolling. This setup allows us to reach speeds of up to 55mph, meaning less time traveling and more time with lines in the water. To ensure the highest quality of service and safety, we offer private trips only—no shared boats—allowing your group of up to six guests to enjoy the undivided attention of your fishing guide. Josh Buttars’ passion for the water began at age seven, a lifelong obsession that led him to save every penny from high school jobs to buy his first boat. That dedication has evolved into a career defined by patience and expertise. As a recent Steelhead Derby winner with a $2,500 grand prize, Josh brings championship-level tactics to every trip. He is a "great teacher" who excels at working with kids and novice anglers, making JB's Killer Guide Service one of the most family-friendly guided fishing options in the region.

EPSG:4269

The 2026 season on the Columbia River is off to a phenomenal start with JB’s Killer Guide Service. Despite the typical winter chill, the "chrome" is running thick and the river monsters are active in the deep holes.

Current Fishing Highlights:

Steelhead: We are seeing consistent action on Winter Steelhead. These fish are aggressive, hard-hitting, and showing off incredible acrobatic displays. We’ve had the most success at first light using light tackle to capitalize on the early morning bite.

Sturgeon: The Sturgeon fishery remains a powerhouse. We are currently hooking into several "dinosaurs" per trip, with some oversize fish testing our heavy-duty gear to the limit. The deep-water haunts near the gorge are producing the most consistent numbers.

Conditions: Water clarity is optimal for this time of year, though the morning temperatures are crisp. Our 25' Wyatt Water sled is keeping clients steady and comfortable as we navigate the current to find the most productive runs.

Pro Tip for Anglers: Dress in layers! The transition from the morning mist to the afternoon sun can be significant. Don't forget your polarized sunglasses to help spot those Steelhead shadows in the shallows.

Booking Outlook: Our calendar for the remainder of January and February is filling up quickly as the Winter Steelhead run peaks. If you're looking to shake off the winter blues with some rod-bending action, now is the time to get on the water.

Chinook salmon caught during fishing tour in Clarkston

Chinook salmon caught on fishing tour in Clarkston

A rainbow trout being caught while fishing in Washington

A single Chinook Salmon being caught while fishing in Washington

Chinook salmon caught on fishing tour in WA

Angler catching a rainbow trout in Clarkston

Coho Salmon caught during fishing tours in WA

Bull Trout being caught during fishing tours in WA

Scenic view of Clarkston, showcasing the great fishing and tour opportunities.

Don't let the trophy of a lifetime swim away—claim your seat on the boat with JB’s Killer Guide Service and experience the heart-pounding thrill of the Columbia River today! Feel the power of a massive Chinook on your line and create legendary memories with the Pacific Northwest's premier guide by booking your private adventure now.

Experience the ultimate Pacific Northwest adventure with JB’s Killer Guide Service, where we specialize in world-class guided fishing on the Columbia River, Snake River, and the Pacific Ocean. Whether you are targeting trophy Spring Chinook, aggressive Fall Salmon, or massive Sturgeon, Captain Josh Buttars utilizes over a decade of professional expertise to put you on the bite. Our family-friendly fishing trips are designed to be approachable for all ages, featuring a patient teaching style that makes it easy for kids and beginners to land their first big catch. By focusing on private trips only, we guarantee your group receives the undivided attention and high-end gear necessary for a successful day on the water. Our service is built on local knowledge and championship-level tactics, ensuring you spend less time searching and more time reeling in Summer Steelhead or Smallmouth Bass. Operating out of a high-speed 25' Wyatt Water Guide Sled, we provide a safe, licensed, and insured environment that prioritizes your comfort and success. With affordable prices and half-day or full-day options available year-round, there has never been a better time to experience the legendary runs of the Northwest. Don't miss out on the peak seasonal bites—book your fishing trip today and secure your date for a premier Columbia River fishing guide experience.

Find answers to all your questions about our private Columbia River fishing charters, including pricing, gear, and seasonal species, to ensure your trip is perfectly planned.

Josh Buttars is more than just a captain; he is a lifelong student of the Pacific Northwest’s complex river systems. His obsession with guided fishing began at the age of seven when he first felt the pull of a Salmon on the line. That early passion fueled a relentless work ethic, leading Josh to save every cent from his high school years to purchase his first vessel. Today, with over a decade of professional experience navigating the Columbia River, Snake River, and the coastal reaches of the Pacific Ocean, Josh has turned that childhood dream into a career defined by local expertise and a deep respect for the water. As a recent grand prize winner of a prestigious Steelhead Derby, Josh brings a competitive edge and championship-level tactics to every outing. However, his true specialty lies in his role as a patient and dedicated educator. Whether he is explaining the nuances of a Spring Chinook run or demonstrating the best techniques for Summer Steelhead, Josh excels at making high-level angling accessible to everyone. His reputation as a "great teacher" makes him a preferred choice for families and novice anglers, ensuring that every guest feels confident and capable regardless of their prior experience. Beyond the technical skills, Josh’s approach is rooted in meticulous preparation and a calm, friendly demeanor. He understands that a successful day on the water is as much about the environment and the company as it is about the catch. Being fully licensed and insured, he prioritizes the safety and comfort of his guests above all else. His goal is to share the legendary diversity of the region—from the aggressive Fall Salmon migrations to the prehistoric power of Sturgeon—while providing a relaxed atmosphere where memories are made and skills are sharpened under the guidance of a true professional. The Vessel: Our 25' Wyatt Water Guide SledTo provide the ultimate platform for Northwest angling, we operate a custom-built 25' Wyatt Water Guide Sled. This high-performance vessel is specifically engineered to handle the varying conditions of the Columbia River and its tributaries with ease. Equipped with a Yamaha 250hp main engine, we can reach speeds of up to 55mph to get you to the "honey holes" quickly, while the Yamaha 9.9hp kicker provides the whisper-quiet precision needed for effective trolling. This boat is designed for both comfort and utility, accommodating up to six guests for private trips only. By maintaining a no-shared-boat policy, we ensure that you have the space, safety, and undivided attention required for a premium day on the water.

Experience the Best of the Pacific Northwest with Captain Josh Buttars

Planning a trip to the Columbia River? Get the 2026 guide to Washington fishing licenses, non-resident fees, and youth rules. Book your guided trip today!

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Common Questions How much does a full-day guided fishing trip on the Columbia River cost?At JB’s Killer Guide Service, our pricing is designed to be straightforward and competitive for the region. Trips start at $250 per person, with a minimum booking of $500 for the first two anglers. Whether you choose a half-day or full-day excursion, you are booking a private boat for your group of up to six people, ensuring you get the best value and the captain's undivided attention. What is included in a JB's Killer Guide Service fishing trip?We provide a premium, all-inclusive gear experience so you can focus on the fishing. Your trip includes the use of high-end rods, reels, and all necessary tackle specifically rigged for the species we are targeting. We also provide the fuel and expertise to navigate our 25' Wyatt Water Guide Sled to the best producing spots on the Columbia and Snake Rivers. What is the best time of year to fish the Columbia River?The "best" time depends on your favorite species, as we offer fishing year-round. For the finest eating fish, the Spring Chinook run from March to May is unbeatable. If you want high-volume action, the Fall Salmon run in August and September is legendary. Summer months are perfect for Steelhead and Bass, while Sturgeon provides a thrilling challenge throughout much of the year. Do I need to bring my own fishing gear or tackle?No, you do not need to bring your own gear. Captain Josh Buttars provides professional-grade equipment tailored for the specific conditions of the Columbia River and Pacific Ocean. However, if you have a "lucky" rod you'd like to use, feel free to bring it along—just let us know in advance so we can ensure it’s rigged correctly for the day's target species. Is fish cleaning and filleting included in the service?Yes! Part of the "Killer" experience is ensuring your catch is ready for the table. At the end of our guided fishing trip, Captain Josh will professionally clean and fillet your Salmon or Steelhead. We recommend bringing a cooler with ice in your vehicle so you can transport your fresh fillets home safely. Where do we meet for our Snake River or Columbia River fishing charter?Because we follow the bite to ensure the best results, meeting locations can vary. Most of our Columbia River trips depart from local marinas near the best seasonal honey holes. Once your trip is booked, Josh will contact you directly to confirm the exact boat launch and meeting time—usually at first light or 7:00 AM for morning departures. What should I bring on my JB's Killer Guide Service trip?To stay comfortable on the water, you should bring weather-appropriate clothing (layers are best), a hat, sunscreen, and polarized sunglasses to help see into the water. Since we do not provide catering, please bring your own food and drinks. Most importantly, you must have a valid fishing license with the appropriate tags for the species we are targeting that day. Is JB's Killer Guide Service family-friendly for young children?Absolutely. We pride ourselves on being a family-friendly fishing guide. Josh has been fishing since he was seven and has a lot of patience when teaching kids and new anglers. Our 25' Wyatt Water sled is a safe, stable platform with a 250hp Yamaha engine that gets us to the fish quickly, keeping the kids engaged and having fun. Do you offer shared boat options with other groups?No, we exclusively offer private trips only. We believe that to provide the very best experience, our guests shouldn't have to share a boat with strangers. This allows us to tailor the pace of the trip to your group, whether you are advanced anglers looking for a technical challenge or a family looking for an easy-going day on the water. What happens if the weather is bad on the day of my trip?Safety is our top priority. Captain Josh monitors the conditions on the Columbia River and Pacific Ocean daily. If the weather is deemed unsafe for our 25' Wyatt Water Guide Sled, we will work with you to reschedule your trip to the next available date or provide a full refund. We are fully licensed and insured to ensure your peace of mind.

Prime Salmon & Steelhead Waters from River to Ocean

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Silhouette of angler fishing with rod at sunset over calm water

Silhouettes of anglers fishing from rocky shoreline during sunset over calm water

Angler holding large black drum fish on boat with ocean and blue sky in background

Angler holding freshly caught black drum fish on boat with ocean backdrop

Majestic snow-capped mountain peaks rising behind dense evergreen forest with calm reflective water in foreground during golden hour lighting

Mountain peaks with orange alpenglow reflected in calm water surrounded by evergreen forest

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