This blog series features top fishing guides sharing their experiences, insights, and advice to help anglers improve their skills on the water. Each installment highlights a different guide, showcasing their expertise while preserving their unique voice and approach to the sport. This time around we caught up with Captain Tony Fisher from Fishers Catch Outfitters!
Captain Tony Fisher - Fisher's Catch Outfitters
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“My goal is for you, your family, and your friends to have a fishing experience that will never be forgot.” Tony has quickly established himself as one of the top guides on the Columbia River with clients around the country. As a licensed captain through the United States Coast Guard and licensed fishing guide in Washington and Oregon, Tony spends upwards of 300 days a year on the water. Sturgeon fishing is one of his top passions due to their immense power and prehistoric bodies that grows to over 13 feet in length. The rush of line being pulled off a spool! We look forward to spending a day or two with you on the water. |
1. What inspired you to become a fishing guide, and how long have you been in the industry?
I was born and raised in the Tri-Cities, and fishing has always been a part of my life. Growing up in West Richland, I spent many years fishing the Yakima River, and my passion for fishing never faded. In 2016, I decided to follow that passion—leaving a 28-year career to start Fisher's Catch Outfitters.
2. What's one key piece of advice you'd give to anglers looking to improve their success on the water?
When targeting walleye—or fishing in general—be open to making changes. A simple color swap, speed adjustment, or depth shift can make all the difference. Don’t get stuck using the same technique that worked yesterday if it’s not working today. Conditions change daily, from weather patterns to fish behavior.
3. What are your go-to lure types or presentations you use the most?
With walleye being my primary target throughout the year, my top three presentations are - Vertical jigging, Trolling deep-diving crankbaits, and using worm harnesses. Jigging for walleye is definitely one of my favorite ways to fish.
4. What's a memorable guiding experience that stands out in your career?
The easy answer is that they’re all special, but the moments I enjoy the most are with first-time anglers. Seeing someone—young or old—experience the excitement of fishing and landing their first fish is truly rewarding.
5. What common mistake do you see anglers make, and how can they correct it?
One of the biggest mistakes I see is sticking to a plan that isn’t working. Anglers hit the water with a strategy in mind, and when it’s not producing, the usual response is, "The fish just aren’t biting today." Most of the time, it’s not that the fish aren’t there—it’s that they’re not interested in what you’re presenting. Adjust your approach and keep experimenting.
Also, don’t forget your fishing license, and make sure you’re familiar with the regulations for the body of water you’re fishing.
6. What factors do you consider most important when planning a successful fishing trip (e.g., weather, water conditions)?
Safety and comfort—for both the crew and clients—always come first. After that, key considerations include location, weather conditions, the types of tackle we use, and the techniques/presentation.
7. For someone booking a guided trip for the first time, what should they expect and how can they prepare?
Any guide worth fishing with should know the local waters, regulations, and safety protocols. At Fisher's Catch Outfitters, we provide everything you need to fish—all you have to bring is a valid fishing license.