Solid Multi-Species Action from Chinook to Walleye

Steelhead Fishing

At Vern’s Fishing Experience, we are committed to providing an unforgettable fishing adventure across the Pacific Northwest. With over 20 years of experience, Guide Vernon Cross has spent a lifetime mastering the region’s waters, specializing in walleye, sturgeon, salmon, steelhead, and shad. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned angler, Vernon’s passion and expertise ensure an exciting and productive day on the water. Operating a 2016 River Wild Boats(25’ x 90’) powered by a Yamaha VMAX 250 hp engine, we accommodate up to six guests per trip, offering a comfortable and efficient ride at speeds up to 55 mph. We fish top destinations like the Columbia River, Snake River, Drano Lake, and Wind River, targeting Chinook and Coho salmon, walleye, sturgeon, and steelhead in some of the most productive waters in Washington and Oregon. Customers are responsible for providing their own fishing licenses, which can be purchased at various locations in Washington and Oregon. A 50% deposit is required upon booking, and if cancellations are made with at least 14 days' notice, we will refund all but 10% of the deposit. Our goal is to make your experience stress-free, so you can focus on enjoying a day filled with exciting fishing action. If you're looking for a knowledgeable, experienced guide who truly loves what he does, Vern’s Fishing Experience is the perfect choice. Book a trip today and discover the thrill of fishing the Pacific Northwest with Guide Vernon Cross—where every cast is a new adventure!

EPSG:4269

Chinook Salmon

Fishing on the Columbia River is heating up as we move into early June. Anglers are seeing solid action across several sections of the river, with a mix of spring Chinook, sturgeon, and walleye keeping lines tight.

Spring Chinook Salmon:
The spring Chinook run is still active, especially near Bonneville Dam and up through the Hanford Reach. Trolling herring behind flashers in 30–50 feet of water has been productive. Anchor fishing with wobblers is also working well in slower current zones.

Sturgeon:
Catch-and-release sturgeon fishing is strong around the Portland/Vancouver stretch and up through The Dalles. Most anglers are targeting deep holes with smelt, squid, or sand shrimp. Keep in mind the slot limits and seasonal regulations — always check WDFW updates before heading out.

Walleye:
Walleye fishing has been consistent near the Tri-Cities and upstream around Umatilla. Blade baits, jigs tipped with nightcrawlers, and crankbaits along ledges and drop-offs are producing. Early mornings and late evenings have been the best bite windows.

Smallmouth Bass:
The bite is on for smallmouth. Rocky shorelines and submerged structure are holding fish. Soft plastics and crankbaits in natural patterns are getting plenty of attention.

Water Conditions:
Flows are steady, and water clarity is fair to good depending on location. Surface temps are rising into the mid-50s to low 60s, which has helped activate feeding behavior in both gamefish and baitfish.

9 coho salmon and chinook salmon caught in WA

4 rainbow trout caught while fishing in WA

Two people fishing for chinook salmon in WA

8 chum, chinook, atlantic, and coho salmon caught in WA

Chinook salmon caught while fishing in WA

5 rainbow trout caught while fishing in Kennewick

Three big fish caught while fishing in WA

A group of 3 fishing enthusiasts enjoying their catch in Washington state.

Make your next adventure unforgettable with Vern's Fishing Experience in Washington—where every cast brings excitement and lasting memories. Book your trip today and let Vern guide you to the best fishing spots in the Pacific Northwest!

For an unforgettable fishing adventure, Guide Vernon Cross and Vern’s Fishing Experience offer some of the best fishing charters in Washington. With years of experience navigating the region’s top fisheries, Vernon specializes in guided trips on the Columbia River, Snake River, Drano Lake, and Wind River, ensuring anglers have access to the best fishing spots in Washington. Whether you’re after trophy walleye, hard-fighting steelhead, massive sturgeon, or prized salmon, our Washington guided fishing tours provide expert knowledge and top-tier equipment to help you land the catch of a lifetime. As one of the top Washington salmon fishing guides, Vernon provides action-packed trips targeting spring, summer, and fall Chinook, as well as coho salmon in the region’s most productive waters. Our Columbia River fishing guides lead anglers to the best fishing spots on the Columbia River, while our Snake River fishing trips offer thrilling opportunities to reel in walleye, steelhead, and sturgeon. For those searching for a true challenge, our Washington sturgeon fishing guides will put you on legendary fish that test your strength and skill. Book a trip today and experience the best of Washington State fishing trips with Vern’s Fishing Experience!

Captain Vernon Cross is the experienced guide behind Vern’s Fishing Experience. With more than two decades of fishing expertise throughout Washington’s rivers and lakes, Vernon has built a deep, intuitive understanding of the Columbia River, Snake River, Drano Lake, and Wind River. His calm, confident approach on the water comes from years of learning what makes these fisheries unique—from changing river conditions to the seasonal movements of salmon, sturgeon, and walleye. When you fish with Vernon, you're fishing with someone who knows every bend, back eddy, and hidden pocket worth exploring. Vernon’s experience goes beyond just knowing the rivers—he’s dedicated to making every trip comfortable, safe, and educational. Whether you’re new to fishing or have a lifetime of experience, Vernon meets you where you’re at. He’s patient, approachable, and always ready to share insight, whether it's reading water conditions or teaching the best technique for landing steelhead. His guests often say that fishing with Vernon feels more like being on the water with an old friend than a typical guided trip. One thing that stands out about Vernon is how much pride he takes in every part of the day—from the rigging of the rods to the stories shared between bites. He believes the best fishing experiences are built on trust, shared excitement, and a focus on making meaningful memories. Many of his clients return year after year, not just for the fishing, but for the genuine connection and consistent results Vernon brings to every outing. <h2>About the Boat</h2>Vern’s Fishing Experience is powered by a 25-foot 2016 River Wild boat, built for both comfort and performance in Washington’s dynamic river systems. Outfitted with a powerful 250-hp Yamaha VMAX engine, the boat cruises smoothly at 50–55 mph, getting you to prime fishing spots quickly and efficiently. It's spacious enough to host up to six guests comfortably, with plenty of room to fish, relax, and enjoy the river views. With its stable design and top-tier equipment, this vessel provides a reliable, safe, and enjoyable ride—perfect for chasing spring Chinook in the Columbia or tracking walleye in the Snake River.

Meet Guide Vernon Cross & Vern's Fishing Experience

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Common Questions: What types of fish can I catch with Vern's Fishing Experience?At Vern's Fishing Experience, we target a variety of species, including Chinook salmon, coho salmon, steelhead, walleye, and sturgeon. Our guided trips cover prime locations such as the Columbia River, Snake River, Drano Lake, and Wind River, offering diverse fishing opportunities throughout the year. What is the typical duration of a fishing trip with Guide Vernon Cross?We offer flexible trip durations to suit your preferences, including half-day (approximately 4 hours) and full-day (approximately 8 hours) excursions. Our goal is to provide an enjoyable and memorable fishing experience tailored to your schedule. Do I need a fishing license for the trip?Yes, all anglers are required to have a valid fishing license for Washington State. Licenses can be purchased online through the Washington Department of Fish &amp; Wildlife or at various authorized retailers. Please ensure you obtain the appropriate license before the trip. What should I bring on the fishing trip?We recommend bringing weather-appropriate clothing, rain gear, sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, and any personal items you may need. Feel free to bring your own snacks and beverages as well. We provide all necessary fishing equipment, including rods, reels, tackle, and bait. What is the cost of a fishing trip with Vern's Fishing Experience?Our rates vary depending on the type and duration of the trip. For detailed pricing information, please visit our Rates page or contact us directly to discuss your specific needs. How do I book a trip with Guide Vernon Cross?Booking a trip is easy! You can reach out to us via email at vernoncross1988@gmail.com or visit our Contact page to fill out an inquiry form. We'll respond promptly to confirm availability and finalize your reservation. What is your cancellation policy?We understand that plans can change. Deposits are non-refundable; however, we strive to accommodate rescheduling requests when possible. Please contact us as soon as possible if you need to change or cancel your booking. Are your fishing trips suitable for beginners?Absolutely! Guide Vernon Cross welcomes anglers of all skill levels, including beginners. We provide instruction and support throughout the trip to ensure a fun and successful experience for everyone. What areas do you primarily fish in?Our fishing adventures primarily take place in the Columbia River, Snake River, Drano Lake, and Wind River. These locations are renowned for their abundant fish populations and scenic beauty, offering an exceptional fishing experience. Can I keep the fish I catch?Catch policies depend on current regulations and conservation efforts. In many cases, you can keep certain species within legal size and bag limits. Guide Vernon Cross will inform you of the applicable rules during your trip and assist with proper handling and storage of your catch

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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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