Happening Now: Coastal Conservation Association’s Salmon Derby

Already underway, the Columbia County Chapter of Coastal Conservation Association (CCA) Oregon is holding its annual Joe Schwab Memorial Fishing Derby on the Columbia River, Willamette River and Multnomah Channel. The two-month long salmon derby ends Saturday, May 11.

“This derby not only recognizes Joe’s legacy as an Oregon State Trooper, but it provides a friendly competition with some impressive prizes,” derby director Mindy Sass said.

First prize is $2,000 for the largest salmon caught followed by $1,000 for second place and $500 for third place. One cash prize of $300 will be awarded to the angler who is closest to the pre-determined mystery weight.

Only salmon caught in the Willamette River, Multnomah Channel and Zones 1 through 6 of the Columbia River during the tournament dates are eligible.

Derby ticket are $75 per entry. All tickets include a one-year membership to CCA. Tickets must be purchased prior to entering the derby. Fish must be gilled and gutted for weigh-in.

Those interested in participating can sign up using the website below. Derby rules can be found there as well. https://ccaoregon.ejoinme.org/2024ColCounty.

The awards dinner will be held on Saturday, May 11, at the Columbia County Chapter’s annual banquet beginning at approximately 6:30 p.m. at the Columbia County Fairgrounds, 58892 Saulser Rd., St. Helens, Oregon, 97051. Along with presenting the winners with their prizes, the banquet will include live and silent auctions, plus an extensive raffle and fundraising games.

Last year’s derby winner was Preston Johnson, who entered a 14.36-pound spring chinook on the last day of the derby.

Weigh-in sites from March 15 to May 10, 2024 include:

• Northwest Plumbing Services, 58105 Columbia River Hwy, Suite B, St. Helens, Oregon from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. Noon to 4 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays.

• Cul-Mar Outdoors, 565 South Columbia River Hwy, St. Helens, Oregon from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day and Saturdays.

• Pour House, 2098 Old Portland Rd., St. Helens, Oregon from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays.

• Crooked Creek Brewery, 343 1st Street St. Helens, Oregon from 11:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesdays through Mondays (closed on Tuesdays).

Weigh in site May 11, 2024:

• Columbia County Fairgrounds, 58892 Saulser Rd., St. Helens, Oregon from 3 p.m. - 5 p.m.

For more information, contact Mindy Sass at sass.mindy@gmail.com or call 503-396-0533.