The King Has Returned: Wild Columbia River King Salmon Season Is Here

June 2, 2025

With Wild Columbia River King Salmon, it's not about the destination; it's about the journey: a 1,243-mile trek, that is.

The Columbia River runs over 1,200 miles, from Canada through Washington, Oregon and to the Pacific Ocean. It's from here that the Wild Columbia River King Salmon makes its trek - returning from the salt water to the fresh waters of its birth.

Wild Columbia River King Salmon, also known as “Chinook” Salmon, is admired for its marbling, which comes from the fat reserves it builds as the fish travels up one of the longest rivers in North America. The Columbia River starts in the freshwaters of the Rocky Mountains of British Columbia, Canada, and carves its way through Washington and the northern part of Oregon before making it to the Pacific Ocean.

NOAA Columbia River from Harrington Point to Crims Island Map

Since this river passes through multiple states, it creates a unique collaboration when it comes to fishery management. Both Washington and Oregon have a seat at the table when it comes to determining quotas and fishery openings, with the season typically running from May to October.

This isn’t your average river fish. King Salmon are anadromous – meaning they’re born in freshwater before making a migration to the saltwater oceans, where they spend their lives until it's time to spawn again. That’s when they return to the freshwaters of their birth, journeying back up the Columbia River.

King Salmon is the largest of the Pacific Salmon, averaging 15 to 20 pounds. Those fat reserves lead to a rounder mid-section and the highest fat content of all Pacific Salmon.

Wild Columbia River King Salmon at Water Grill

At Water Grill, we serve Wild Columbia River King Salmon grilled with heirloom carrots and vadouvan curry butter. Hungry for more? Check out our daily menus and grab a reservation.

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Congrats, Grad! Celebrate with a Private Dining Experience at Water Grill

May 22, 2025

Your celebration starts with the toss of a cap and the turn of a tassel -- let it continue with the best from the ocean in a private dining room at Water Grill. Whether you’re planning an intimate graduation dinner or an all-out grad party, gather with all those close to you in a Water Grill private dining room that has everything you need to celebrate in style.

Our rooms are equipped with 4K TVs with multiple streaming options, perfect for a slide show to showcase your journey -- from walking into pre-k to walking the stage with a degree. Enjoy the fruits of all your hard work with multiple menus to fit your price range, dedicated waitstaff, customizable seating arrangements and private entrances.

Whether you're planning your own party or a parent organizing a celebration for your child's big day, our event planners are here to help every step of the way. After all, who has time to stress over the details when you’ve got finals to ace or an empty nest to prepare for?

Ready to plan a graduation party that makes a splash? Water Grill is conveniently located near many major high schools and universities. Explore our locations and find the perfect space to honor your graduate in style.

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