Columbia Park is a small-water fishery on the Columbia River with walk-in access and year-round opportunity
Columbia Park sits along the Columbia River in Richland, Washington, about 120 miles southeast of Seattle. It is a day-use facility with paved parking, restroom access, and a boat launch — making it one of the more accessible spots on this stretch of the river. The park itself does not require a fee to enter, though Washington's fishing license and any required catch record cards are mandatory.
The fishery here is mixed. Smallmouth bass are the most reliable target, with fish present year-round and best action in spring and fall. Walleye show up in summer and fall, and the river also holds white sturgeon, though sturgeon fishing is tightly regulated and requires a separate endorsement. Crappie and bluegill are present but not the draw. Most anglers fish from the bank or from boats launched at the park's ramp.
Key Takeaways
- Columbia Park offers free day-use access with parking and a boat launch on the Columbia River near Richland.
- Smallmouth bass are available year-round; walleye peak in summer and fall; white sturgeon require a separate endorsement and have specific season windows.
- Bank fishing is productive along the park's shoreline, and the boat launch accommodates both trailered boats and hand-launch craft.
- Washington fishing license and current catch record cards (if required for your target species) are required before you fish.
- Water levels and current speed vary with dam operations upstream; spring runoff and summer drawdown both affect where fish hold.
Seasons and what fish are active when
Smallmouth bass fishing is steady from April through October, with peak action in May and June when water temperatures climb into the 60s. Fall (September through November) brings another strong window as fish feed before winter. Winter fishing is possible but slower; bass are less aggressive in cold water, though they do not disappear entirely.
Walleye fishing improves as water cools in late summer and peaks from September through November. Early morning and evening hours are most productive. Summer walleye are present but scattered and harder to locate. White sturgeon seasons vary by year and are announced by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife; seasons typically open in spring and again in fall, with specific dates and catch limits set annually.
Crappie and bluegill are present spring through fall but are incidental catches for most visitors. If you target them deliberately, early morning in May and June produces the most consistent results.
Bank access and boat launch details
The park has a paved parking area with spaces close to the water. Bank access runs along a developed shoreline with some vegetation and rocky structure — good holding water for smallmouth. The bank is walkable and relatively safe, though the river current is always present and water temperature stays cold even in summer.
The boat launch is a single-lane concrete ramp suitable for trailered boats up to about 25 feet. There is no fuel dock or rental service at the park itself. The launch can get crowded on weekends, especially in spring and fall. Hand-launch kayaks and small rafts are also common. Parking for boat trailers is available but limited; arrive early on busy days.
The park has restroom facilities and picnic tables but no food service or tackle shop. Bring water and any supplies you will need. Cell service is generally available but not may provide in all areas of the park.
What to bring and how to prepare
Bring your Washington fishing license and any required catch record cards before you arrive. If you plan to fish for sturgeon, you must have a separate sturgeon endorsement on your license. Check the current regulations on the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife website for the most recent season dates and bag limits — these change annually.
For smallmouth, medium-action spinning rods with 6- to 8-pound test line work well. Crankbaits, soft plastics, and live shiners all produce. For walleye, similar tackle works, though live bait (shiners or crawfish) often outperforms artificials. Sturgeon fishing requires heavier gear and live bait (usually shad or herring) fished on the bottom.
Bring polarized sunglasses to read the water, especially in spring when visibility is good. A net is useful if you plan to land larger fish. Sun protection, a hat, and water are essential — the park offers little shade. If you are launching a boat, check the water level and current speed before you go; dam operations upstream can change conditions rapidly.
Regulations and licensing requirements
Washington residents and non-residents both need a valid fishing license. Licenses are sold online through the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife website, at sporting goods stores, and at some local retailers. A one-day license is available for non-residents; annual licenses are cheaper if you plan multiple trips.
Catch record cards are required for certain species and are included with your license purchase or sold separately. Check which species require a card before you fish — requirements change and vary by water body. Smallmouth bass do not require a separate card in most areas, but walleye and sturgeon do.
Bag limits and size restrictions vary by species and are updated annually. Smallmouth bass typically have a 5-fish daily limit with no size restriction, but confirm current rules before you fish. Walleye limits and sturgeon seasons are more restrictive and change year to year. The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife publishes a complete fishing pamphlet each year; download it or pick one up at a license vendor.
Getting there and nearby services
Columbia Park is located at 2 Volunteer Drive, Richland, Washington 99352. From Interstate 82, take the Richland exit and follow signs toward the Columbia River. The park is on the east bank of the river, clearly marked. Parking is free. The drive from Seattle is about two hours; from Portland, about three hours.
Richland has gas stations, restaurants, and a grocery store within a few miles of the park. There is no tackle shop directly at the park, but Richland has at least one sporting goods retailer that stocks fishing supplies. If you need specialized gear or live bait, call ahead to confirm availability. The nearest lodging is in downtown Richland, about 10 minutes away by car.
The park is open year-round during daylight hours. There is no overnight camping at Columbia Park itself, but the Tri-Cities area (Richland, Kennewick, Pasco) has RV parks and hotels if you want to stay longer.
How water conditions affect where fish are
The Columbia River is managed by dam operations upstream, which means water level and current speed change throughout the day and season. Spring runoff (April through June) brings high water and strong current; fish often move to slower water near the bank or behind structure. Summer drawdown (July through September) lowers the river and slows the current, spreading fish across a wider area but also concentrating them in deeper holes.
Water temperature is coldest in winter (40s) and warmest in August (low 70s). Smallmouth are most active when water is in the 60s to 70s. Walleye prefer cooler water and become more active as temperatures drop in fall. Check the water temperature before you fish — it affects both where fish hold and how aggressive they feed.
Visibility changes with water clarity. Spring runoff brings silt and reduces visibility to a few feet; fall and winter water is usually clearer. Cloudy water favors darker lures and live bait; clear water favors smaller, more natural presentations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I fish at Columbia Park without a boat?
Yes. Bank access is good along the park's shoreline, and smallmouth and walleye are catchable from shore. You will not reach as much water as you would from a boat, but the developed bank has structure and current breaks that hold fish year-round.
What is the best time of year to fish Columbia Park?
May through June and September through November are most productive. Spring brings active smallmouth; fall brings both smallmouth and walleye. Summer is slower but still fishable. Winter is possible but requires patience and slower presentations.
Do I need a separate permit for sturgeon fishing?
Yes. You need a sturgeon endorsement on your Washington fishing license, plus a catch record card. Sturgeon seasons are announced annually and are often short (a few weeks). Check the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife website for current season dates before you plan a sturgeon trip.
Is there a fee to use Columbia Park?
No. Day-use access is free. You pay only for your fishing license and any endorsements required for your target species.
What should I do if the boat launch is crowded?
Bank fishing is a solid alternative and often produces as well as boat fishing for smallmouth and walleye. If you must launch a boat, arrive early (before 8 a.m.) on weekends, or fish on weekdays when traffic is lighter.