What You'll Find at Maylor Point

Maylor Point is a public access site on the Columbia River in central Washington, located near the town of Vantage in Grant County. The site sits along a stretch of river known for smallmouth bass and walleye, with occasional catches of crappie and perch. The point itself juts into the river and offers bank access from a developed parking area, making it straightforward to reach without a boat.

The Columbia River here flows through semi-arid landscape — sagebrush and basalt cliffs — and the water is relatively clear compared to lower-river sections. Maylor Point works best in spring and early summer when smallmouth are active in shallower water, and again in fall. Summer can be productive for walleye if you fish deeper holes or after sunset.

Key Takeaways

  • Maylor Point offers bank access to smallmouth bass and walleye in the Columbia River, with a developed parking area and no boat required.
  • Spring through early summer is the most reliable season for smallmouth; walleye fishing improves in fall and during low-light hours in summer.
  • You will need a Washington fishing license and must follow current Columbia River regulations, which vary by species and season.
  • The site is day-use only and has limited facilities — bring water, sunscreen, and a hat, as shade is minimal on the point itself.

Seasons and What to Expect

Spring (March through May) brings the most consistent smallmouth action at Maylor Point. Water temperatures climb into the 50s and 60s, and bass move into shallower areas to feed and spawn. You can catch fish from the bank using crankbaits, soft plastics, and live crawfish. Early morning and late afternoon are most productive, though overcast days can produce all day.

Summer (June through August) slows the bite for smallmouth as water temperatures exceed 70 degrees and fish move deeper. Walleye become the better target, especially from dusk into the night. If you fish during the day, focus on deeper holes and drop-offs near the point. Bring plenty of water — the site offers no shade and afternoon temperatures regularly exceed 90 degrees.

Fall (September through October) brings cooler water and renewed smallmouth activity. Fish move back into shallower zones and feed aggressively before winter. This is often the second-best season at Maylor Point. Walleye also remain catchable through October, particularly in the hour before sunset.

Winter (November through February) is slow. Water temperatures drop into the 40s, and fish are less active. Some anglers target walleye in deeper holes, but success is inconsistent. The site remains open, but weather and wind can make bank fishing uncomfortable.

Access, Parking, and Facilities

Maylor Point is reached from Highway 90 near Vantage. From Interstate 90, take the Vantage exit and follow signs toward the Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park area — Maylor Point is a separate public access site nearby. The drive from Seattle is roughly two hours; from Spokane, about three hours.

The site has a paved parking area with room for 15 to 20 vehicles. There is a vault toilet but no running water, no fish-cleaning station, and no covered shelter. The point itself is a short walk from the parking area. The site is day-use only — no overnight camping.

Bring your own water, sunscreen, and a wide-brimmed hat. The landscape offers almost no natural shade. In summer, plan to fish early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat. The site is open year-round, but winter wind can be strong and unpredictable.

Regulations and Licensing

You must have a valid Washington fishing license to fish at Maylor Point. Licenses are sold online through the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) website, at sporting goods stores, and at many convenience stores. A one-day license is available if you do not want to purchase an annual permit.

Smallmouth bass have a year-round season in this section of the Columbia River, with a daily limit of five fish and a minimum size of 12 inches. Walleye season and limits vary — check the current WDFW regulations before you fish, as rules change seasonally. Crappie and perch have their own seasons and limits.

The Columbia River is managed jointly by Washington and Oregon, and regulations can differ slightly by location. Maylor Point is on the Washington side, so Washington rules apply. Always verify current regulations on the WDFW website or call their regional office before your trip.

What Tackle and Bait Work Best

For smallmouth, bring a medium-action spinning rod with 8- to 10-pound monofilament or braided line. Crankbaits in shad patterns work well in spring, as do soft plastics like 4-inch tubes and creature baits in brown or green. Live crawfish are excellent if you can obtain them. Cast along the rocky shoreline and near any visible structure — fallen trees, rocks, or deeper ledges.

Walleye fishing calls for slightly heavier tackle — 10- to 12-pound line — and slower presentations. Live minnows (shiners or shad) fished on a simple slip-sinker rig work well, especially at dusk. Jigging with small spoons or soft plastics tipped with minnow can also produce. Fish deeper water and be patient; walleye are often less aggressive than smallmouth.

Crappie and perch are incidental catches but can be fun on light tackle. Small jigs, spinners, and live minnows will take them. The best crappie fishing is usually in spring when they move into shallower water to spawn.

Nearby Alternatives and Considerations

If Maylor Point is crowded or the bite is slow, the Columbia River has other public access points in the same region. Vantage Bridge area and the Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park boat launch are within a few miles. These sites offer similar species and seasons but may have different facilities and access styles.

If you have a boat, launching at Vantage or at the Priest Rapids Dam area (upstream) opens up more water and deeper holes where walleye concentrate. Bank fishing at Maylor Point is productive, but a boat gives you more flexibility to find active fish, especially in summer.

The Yakima River, about 30 miles south, offers different species (steelhead, rainbow trout) and seasons. If you are planning a longer trip to central Washington, combining Maylor Point with a visit to the Yakima or other nearby waters can make the drive worthwhile.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of day to fish at Maylor Point?

Early morning (sunrise to mid-morning) and late afternoon through dusk are most productive for smallmouth. Walleye bite better in low light — the hour before sunset through full dark is ideal. Midday in summer is usually slow for both species.

Do I need a boat to fish Maylor Point?

No. The site is designed for bank access and you can catch smallmouth and walleye from shore. A boat is not required, though it does allow you to reach deeper water and cover more ground, especially in summer when fish move away from the shallows.

Can I keep fish I catch at Maylor Point?

Yes, within the daily limits set by Washington regulations. Smallmouth have a five-fish daily limit with a 12-inch minimum size. Walleye limits vary by season — check WDFW regulations before you fish. All fish must meet size and season requirements to be kept.

Is Maylor Point crowded?

It is moderately used, especially on weekends in spring and early summer. Weekday mornings are usually quieter. The parking area can fill on popular days, but the site rarely reaches capacity. If you arrive early, you will have plenty of space and fewer anglers nearby.

What should I bring to Maylor Point?

Bring a fishing license, your rod and tackle, water (at least two liters in summer), sunscreen, a hat, and any snacks you want. The site has a vault toilet but no other facilities. In summer, arriving early and leaving by mid-afternoon helps you avoid the heat.