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!

About Our Company

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!

Top Spots for Summer Chinook Fishing on the Snake River

Top Spots

Are you ready to experience the thrill of summer Chinook fishing on the legendary Snake River? Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting started, this river offers some of the best fishing opportunities in the Pacific Northwest. Here's a guide to the top spots you should check out for an unforgettable fishing adventure.Heller BarLocated near the confluence of the Snake and Grande Ronde Rivers, Heller Bar is a prime location for targeting summer Chinook. The deep pools and swift currents make it an excellent spot for both trolling and bank fishing.Lower Granite Dam TailraceThe area just below Lower Granite Dam is known for holding large numbers of Chinook as they migrate upriver. Anglers have great success here using plugs, spinners, and drifting bait.Lyons FerryThis hotspot near the Lyons Ferry Marina provides excellent access to migrating Chinook. Trolling with herring or prawns can be highly productive, and the nearby boat ramps make it a convenient choice.Little Goose DamJust below Little Goose Dam, you'll find another productive fishing location. The turbulent waters help concentrate fish, making this an ideal place for both boat and shore anglers.Clarkston AreaFor those looking to fish closer to town, the stretch of river near Clarkston, WA, offers easy access and steady fishing action. Try back-trolling with sardine-wrapped plugs or drifting eggs to entice bites.Tips for Success<ul><li>Best Time to Fish: Peak season typically runs from June through early August.</li><li>Gear Up: Heavy-duty rods and reels with 30-50 lb test line are recommended to handle these powerful fish.</li><li>Regulations: Be sure to check current fishing regulations for limits, retention rules, and barbless hook requirements.</li></ul>Whether you're fishing from a boat or the shore, the Snake River is a premier destination for summer Chinook. Plan your trip, get your gear ready, and prepare for an incredible fishing experience!

Our Gallery

Guide Vernon Cross is the passionate and experienced angler behind Vern's Fishing Experience. With over 20 years of fishing knowledge, Vernon has honed his skills across Washington's top fishing destinations, including the Columbia River, Snake River, Drano Lake, and Wind River. He specializes in guiding anglers to target Chinook salmon, coho salmon, steelhead, walleye, and sturgeon, providing expert techniques for both beginners and seasoned anglers. Vernon is committed to offering personalized, hands-on experiences that ensure every guest has an unforgettable time on the water. Vern's Fishing Experience operates out of a well-equipped 2016 River Wild boat, designed for comfort and performance. With a length of 25 feet and a 250-hp Yamaha VMAX engine, this boat cruises at speeds of 50-55 mph, ensuring quick access to the best fishing spots. The boat is spacious, accommodating up to 6 guests, and provides a stable and safe platform for fishing. Whether you're chasing spring Chinook in the Columbia River or targeting walleye in the Snake River, Vern’s Fishing Experience ensures a top-tier fishing adventure tailored to your needs.

Meet Guide Vernon Cross & Vern's Fishing Experience

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Fishing License

Washington Fishing License

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

Top Spots for Summer Chinook Fishing on the Snake River

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