Tucked away in the roaring confluence of the Columbia River and the Pacific Ocean lies one of the most exhilarating and productive fishing locations in the Pacific Northwest—Fishing Buoy 10. For anglers in the know, it’s more than just a spot on the map; it’s a seasonal phenomenon that draws fishermen from all corners of the country.
But navigating these fertile waters isn’t for the faint of heart. That’s where Reel Time Fishing, owned and operated by the seasoned and passionate Toby Wyatt, comes in. Specializing in Steelhead, Salmon, Sturgeon, Smallmouth Bass, Walleye, and Kokanee fishing, Reel Time Fishing offers an experience that goes far beyond casting a line. It’s a professionally guided journey into one of nature’s greatest arenas—where the fish are huge, the stories are even bigger, and the memories last a lifetime.
Fishing Buoy 10 refers to a specific navigational marker located at the mouth of the Columbia River, near Astoria, Oregon. Each year, from early August through Labor Day, this area becomes a hotspot for anglers seeking the legendary Chinook and Coho salmon runs. With nutrient-rich currents swirling from the ocean and upriver, this zone becomes a perfect storm of opportunity—a migratory highway teeming with fish.
This fishery is so legendary that "Buoy 10" has evolved into shorthand for adrenaline-pumping, rod-bending, salmon-chasing adventure.
The primary draw of Fishing Buoy 10 is its sheer abundance of salmon, especially Chinook and Coho. This migration is one of the most significant on the West Coast, and thousands of fish pass through daily during peak season. When the bite is hot, it’s not uncommon for every boat in sight to be reeling in fish simultaneously.
Fishing Buoy 10 is not a calm, lazy river excursion. With strong tides, shifting currents, and the raw energy of the Pacific Ocean clashing with river water, this is a high-action experience. It's fast-paced, physical, and thrilling.
Besides the explosive fishing, the scenery is unmatched. Surrounded by craggy coastlines, seabirds, and the occasional sea lion, Buoy 10 is nature’s amphitheater—an immersive environment that adds to the magic of the catch.
No one knows these waters quite like Toby Wyatt. With decades of experience under his belt and a reputation for excellence, Toby has built Reel Time Fishing into one of the most trusted and respected charter operations in the region.
Expertise: Toby and his team aren’t just guides; they’re anglers with an instinctive understanding of fish behavior, tides, weather, and safety.
Targeted Species Mastery: From Steelhead and Kokanee to Sturgeon and Walleye, every trip is tailored to the fish you dream of catching.
Top-Notch Equipment: Clients fish from state-of-the-art boats, using high-quality gear that makes all the difference in the challenging conditions of Buoy 10.
Customer-Focused: Whether you're a seasoned angler or it's your first time holding a rod, Reel Time Fishing ensures a welcoming, personalized experience.
Guests meet early, often before sunrise, to beat the rush. Toby gives a quick safety and strategy briefing, tailored to the day’s tide and weather.
Once lines are in the water, the real fun starts. Chinook can easily top 20–30 pounds, and Coho are known for their fierce fighting spirit. The action can be non-stop, with double or even triple hookups common during peak bite times.
By the end of the day, guests not only go home with fresh, delicious fish but also with stories that’ll be retold for years. Many return annually, drawn back by the thrill, camaraderie, and the legendary fish of Buoy 10.
While Fishing Buoy 10 is world-renowned for salmon, Reel Time Fishing’s offerings go far beyond a single species.
Steelhead Trips: Famed for their acrobatics, Steelhead provide a challenging and rewarding experience.
Sturgeon Excursions: These prehistoric giants can grow up to 10 feet long—catching one is a bucket-list event.
Smallmouth Bass & Walleye: For freshwater action, Reel Time knows the best hidden gems in the Pacific Northwest.
Kokanee Adventures: These landlocked salmon are great for family outings, offering consistent action and tasty rewards.
Booking early is key, especially during Buoy 10’s short but intense season. Reel Time Fishing provides:
Online and phone reservations
All gear and tackle
Fish cleaning and packing options
Advice on licensing, lodging, and what to bring
For those who want to combine sport, nature, and relaxation, few trips rival this one.
In a world dominated by screens, noise, and daily stress, there’s something profoundly healing about spending a day on the water. Fishing at Buoy 10 isn’t just about the fish—it’s about reconnection: with nature, with tradition, and with the people you’re sharing the boat with.
Whether it’s a father-son bonding day, a solo escape, or an annual trip with old friends, these moments remind us what’s truly valuable.
Fishing Buoy 10 with Reel Time Fishing is more than a recreational activity—it’s a powerful encounter with the natural world, expertly guided by professionals who live and breathe the sport. As climate and conservation challenges loom, supporting sustainable, ethical, and experiential tourism like this becomes more than a choice—it’s a statement.
