Is there someone out there that can tell me what the anchoring setup is on the columbia. I have seen a few different ways they are doing it, 1 way is they are running two buckets out the back I am asuming to keep the boat from swinging back and further. I dont really need to know gear set ups but anchoring info would be helpful.

The buckets hanging off the stern is to keep you from swaying in the wind. I only used them (haven't fished down there for a while) when the wind was pretty severe. Also won't be as much of an issue if your boat doesn't have that much side area, say, if you have an open sled.

Am going to go down late this month, let me know if you want to team up. Am planning on heading for the Bonneville area.

I fish that area all the time. I also live in Renton so E-mail me and I will show you all you will need to know.

I fished out of Longview (Willow Grove) a few times last year. We just used a normal anchor on my buddy's sled, with no buckets... his is an open boat.

If I were to bring my boat down there I'd use a sea anchor or a couple of buckets while anchored, mine has a big top on it.

To tell you the truth, we had better luck trolling. Everyone trolls on the incoming tide, then anchors up on the outgoing when the current picks up. We trolled both times, and used conventional saltwater gear... flasher and hootchie or spoon. Did OK, got a couple, but no one else was knocking them dead then, either.

-N.

Anchoring on the Columbia needs caution, it's easy to learn but MUST be learned right. First you can use a dansfoth anchor around Longview cause it is mostly sand BUT if your going to fish it you really should get a break free rock anchor. GI Joe's has them. They are a 4 prong anchor that has a chain attached to the main shaft. This allows for the achor to break free when pulling up when it maybe stuck in some rocks. Next you need an anchor pulley w/buoy, also at GI Joes, and 300' of rope. Around Longview the current isn't as bad as the Gourge but it can be on a big tide. Lots of rope so your bow doesn't get sucked into the current and you do a seal immitation. As already said the buckets (or windsocks) keep the boat from swinging, usually when in a hog line.Once you've done it it a piece of cake, Just do it right. Fish on