Bob&Jilly
R27-OB Portland OR Lynnsanity II
- Joined
- Mar 13, 2025
- Messages
- 189
- Location
- Fargher Lake WA
- Fluid Motion Model
- R-27 (Outboard)
- Hull Identification Number
- FMLT2757*818
- Vessel Name
- Lynnsanity II
We recently cruised upriver from Portland to Umatilla. Three locks, incredible scenery, and surprisingly easy docking made for a wonderful trip.
The major concern, however, is the hundreds of gill nets deployed in the river. These nets can bring a boat to an abrupt stop if they become entangled with the propulsion system. Some extend halfway across the deep-water channel and are extremely difficult to see, particularly in a 3- to 4-foot chop.
These nets are in Zone 6 of the Columbia River, a 147-mile stretch between Bonneville and McNary dams. The fishery is managed by the four treaty tribes under the U.S. v. Oregon framework, with the Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission (CRITFC) playing a key role. At times, more than 250 nets may be deployed, creating a significant navigational hazard for recreational boaters.
Check current fishing announcements before departing, maintain a sharp lookout for nets and their markers, and give any suspected nets a wide berth. Nets can be difficult to spot in rough water, so be prepared to adjust your plans or postpone the trip when conditions make safe navigation difficult.
I have been cruising from east to west for many years, and this was one of the most exciting cruises I have ever taken. The Columbia is a magnificent river, and the trip to Umatilla is well worth considering. However, it requires serious planning, particularly for anyone unfamiliar with locking through dams.
The river also has numerous microclimates, and conditions can change dramatically over the course of a single day. You can go from calm water to 4-foot standing waves in a matter of hours. Careful weather monitoring, preparation, and a willingness to adapt your plans are essential.
It's an unforgettable adventure, but one that demands respect for the river and an awareness of the hazards along the way.
The major concern, however, is the hundreds of gill nets deployed in the river. These nets can bring a boat to an abrupt stop if they become entangled with the propulsion system. Some extend halfway across the deep-water channel and are extremely difficult to see, particularly in a 3- to 4-foot chop.
These nets are in Zone 6 of the Columbia River, a 147-mile stretch between Bonneville and McNary dams. The fishery is managed by the four treaty tribes under the U.S. v. Oregon framework, with the Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission (CRITFC) playing a key role. At times, more than 250 nets may be deployed, creating a significant navigational hazard for recreational boaters.
Check current fishing announcements before departing, maintain a sharp lookout for nets and their markers, and give any suspected nets a wide berth. Nets can be difficult to spot in rough water, so be prepared to adjust your plans or postpone the trip when conditions make safe navigation difficult.
I have been cruising from east to west for many years, and this was one of the most exciting cruises I have ever taken. The Columbia is a magnificent river, and the trip to Umatilla is well worth considering. However, it requires serious planning, particularly for anyone unfamiliar with locking through dams.
The river also has numerous microclimates, and conditions can change dramatically over the course of a single day. You can go from calm water to 4-foot standing waves in a matter of hours. Careful weather monitoring, preparation, and a willingness to adapt your plans are essential.
It's an unforgettable adventure, but one that demands respect for the river and an awareness of the hazards along the way.