Amazing trip with Marvin! He is a great guide, tons of knowledge, and fun to be around. My son and I came up for an oversized sturgeon trip and Marvin got me the biggest sturgeon I've ever seen. Fishing died off, but he went to another spot and stayed later than planned to get my son a fish too. We couldn't be happier and it was worth every penny. Looking forward to booking my next trip with him. read more

Marvin's Guide Service - 6 footer - Fishing Near Me - Portland, Oregon

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Had a great time out with Marvin a week ago limited out he showed professionalism in the way he ran his boat to how knowledgeable he was this was my 2nd time fishing with him and I'm already planning my next trip out with him read more

Choosing to go out with Marvin is one of the best decisions you will ever make. He will do everything he can & to use his best abilities to get you after some fish! His years of knowledge, experience, passion, and fun personality will have you coming back for more. I booked my 30th birthday trip with Marvin in Astoria and had many bites and put fish in our freezer. I spoke with Marvin for months determining when I should go. He was helpful, professional, responsive, and easy to work with. Coming back for more fishing and crabbing soon. Thanks Marvin! read more

I've fished with a a lot of guides and Marvin and his son Austin are some of the best. What makes them different is the effort they put into giving their customers what they want. I've always wanted to land a gigantic Sturgeon and I had a great time on this trip. We ended this trip short of the monster we were after but no guide would have done more to get us there and we had a great time doing it! Unfortunately for Marvin he's now stuck with us as we'll keep coming back! read more

We had a great time fishing for giant sturgeon with Marvin yesterday. He's knowledgeable, patient, and well prepared to introduce the novice or experienced angler to fishing for giant sturgeon in the Columbia river. Be prepared to pull HARD on BIG fish that can and do easily surpass 300 lbs! Marvin is out on the water an hour or more before you meet him at the landing, finding bait. When you meet him at the boat ramp, he'll be ready for you. He'll instruct you on how these monsters are hooked and fought, which (to be successful) requires careful coordination between the angler(s) and captain (Marvin). Pay close attention, as some of the techniques used to fight these fish differ from how similar tackle is used in other regions. When hooked, sturgeon will jump occasionally, but most of the fight is done deep in the 100 foot waters. A rod butt belt was available, but its condition and design made it minimally helpful. A better set up might have been more comfortable to use, but most anglers just skip it and use the rod without one. Rubber end covers for the fishing rods wear out quickly and Marvin didn't have replacements, so anglers had to use rods with metal butts which were more applicable for use with gimbals. It's an easy fix that I hope Marvin will address, as it does help somewhat during a long fight (45 minutes in my case, but which could take more than an hour). This is a very physical endeavor and anglers that are used to fishing in "blue water" for big game fish such as tuna, marlin, etc..., should plan on putting just as much effort into fighting these big fish. Many (if not the majority) of Marvin's customers will "tag team" the fight out of necessity, and that's all right. When the fish is finally tired out, it's brought alongside the boat for measuring and release. If an angler or observer wants to enter the water and pose next to the sturgeon, Marvin will accommodate him/her, after insuring a personal floatation device is used. Note that even in "calm" waters, a PFD is mandatory as the river current is extremely strong. I'm sure anglers will really enjoy fishing with Marvin and in all probability get the leviathan of their dreams. It's hard to believe that such huge fish are found in our rivers, but Marvin is a pro at enabling his clients to see they really exist, IF the anglers do their part. Note that Marvin has bottled water on board, but doesn't supply a lunch or other amenities. If you want soft drinks or beer, you'll have to bring that too. *Edited to add: Marvin's comments are completely understandable. Equipment issues arise with such a heavy schedule and we charted him for fishing not a "foodies' tour" or "booze cruise"! No problem Marvin! read more

Marvin's Guide Service - Fishing with Marvin was a VERY physical challenge, but lots of fun for our group in July of 2017. This is an 8 1/2 footer. - Fishing Near Me - Portland, Oregon

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I would recommend if you're trying to get ahold of Marvin, text him. Today on the boat there where two couples, each one landed about a 20 pound salmon Several got hooked but got away, one eaten by a sea lion while reeling it in At first I had mixed emotions about Marvin, he came across like a know it all. At the end of the day, I would say he is a man that knows it all, especially when it comes to fishing! Marvin, I hope Teresa and I will see you the end of August next year. Happy Trails John. read more

Marvin's Guide Service - Fishing Near Me - Portland, Oregon

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Marvin was great! We went a while ago ...5/30/2018... but I thought it was finally worth a review. My son and I are both experienced fisherman. That's why when we are fishing in a new place we get a guide so we don't waste a lot of time trying to figure it out. The first day we went for Salmon & Steelhead... needless to say it was slow and we didn't catch any. There was another father and son on board and were kinda pissed. I explained to the father that it is called fishing and not catching fish... he didn't think it was funny. We did end up catching a bunch of shad that we used for bait the following day. The next day we went out and were targeting Sturgeon. OMG... What a day! We caught a bunch, lost a few but had an incredible time! It's not always about catching fish, but enjoying the time spent with good people. ( maybe I fish too much) When I am back in Portland, I am definitely going to set it up again. I have been following on Facebook and enjoy all of you adventures! read more

This was an amazing fun adventure.. I highly recommend Marvin as your go to guide.. I had an incredible time fishing.. 8 on our lines 3 in the boat all by 9:30 in the morning.. Marvin knows were to do to get your fish.. read more

Marvin's Guide Service - Thanks Marvin for a great day on the Columbia River.. So much fun catching this salmon.. - Fishing Near Me - Portland, Oregon

We had a great day on Marvin's Guided tour on Tuesday. It was so comfortable and fun! Marvin and his "deck hand" Austin, really know the navigation of the water ways of the Columbia and Willamette and other water ways. Marvin gave us such valuable tips regarding fishing for salmon. We would highly recommend Marvin's Guided Tour for salmon fishing. Thank You Marvin! We are hoping to make the Salmon and Crapping tour this September. read more

Marvin's is a great guide service that we really enjoyed fishing with. Marvin and his deck hand son worked hard to make our trip fun and successful. Caught a 9.5 foot sturgeon in the Columbia below The Dalles dam. I will definitely be fishing with him again. read more

We caught our limit and had a great time doing it. My son and I always felt safe and made some awesome memories. We'll be back!!! Thanks Marvin! read more

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We showed up a bit late, but Marvin didn't mind. In fact, for some reason, while I'm usually an on-time guy, whenever I book a trip with Marvin, I tend to end up late. I've fished with Marvin 5 or 6 times now, and it's always a good time, even when the fish aren't around. My most recent trip included my dad, whom I haven't fished with since the '90s. It was great to get out and fish with my dad again. Marvin got us on the fish and it just wouldn't quit. My dad brought the first fish to the boat within minutes of getting the lines in the water. At the end of the day we had over 50 sturgeon to the boat, including oversized fish and keepers to take home for dinner. Marvin also had our fish filleted out quickly when we got back to the launch. Fishing with Marvin is never disappointing. read more

Buyer Beware!! I would only recommend this service to hardcore Trump supporters who are packing heat and are more concerned about political objectives than catching fish. I booked this trip in the hopes of seeing my parents catch a salmon. The service fee is equal or greater than most in the area so I expected professionalism and a full day on the water if nothing else. Within 10 minutes of being onboard the governor, government, and political sides were brought up making everyone feel extremely uncomfortable. An hour into the trip Marvin was excited to show off the pistol he was carrying on his hip and wanted to discuss gun laws. All the while we caught not a single fish. This continued until 1:30 when we were informed we had a "long drive back home" to Bend and headed back to the marina. On the way back he let his 14 year old child drive the boat - he thought it would be fun to jump the waves and not only soaked us but almost capsized the boat and risked our lives. This was a fishing trip that turned into politics, the showing off of weapons, near death and not a bite or any effort to catch fish. Not recommended - there are better quality, more professional guide services available. read more

Marvin was great. He was really fun and knowledgeable. We flew in from California, and had a ton of fun. I would recommend him to any friends visiting Portland. read more

Been out twice with Marvin. Both times he has put us on fish. Once for Salmon and once for sturgeon. He's easy going and instructive. He's the only guide I'll use around Portland and Columbia River. read more

Marvin's Guide Service - Fishing Near Me - Portland, Oregon

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My first trip out on a charter boat was with Marvin's guide service! I also caught two green sturgeon! I felt very safe and relaxed on the river with him. It truly was so much fun! The best ! He gets my vote for a get day on the river. I will be retuning in august to fish for salmon with him ! read more

I was in town on a business trip and had a few days for fun so I decided to go fishing. After reading all the reviews I decided to go with Marvin and it was a great choice. He was very professional and worked hard to put us on the sturgeon. The morning started with a few small ones and then the fun began. We were lucky enough to hook, fight and land an 8-9' sturgeon. It only took about 45 minutes to get it in the boat. We also caught another 5' sturgeon before they decided to stop biting. I highly recommend that you use Marvin's guide service if you want a great day. I hope that I am lucky enough to go out on his boat again. read more

I am updating my review. I have read other reviews and Marvin receives high marks. He has stopped using the guy he used the day I went. Try using him yourself and be honest about your experience. His business has my best wishes going forward. read more

Had an awesome time out with Marvin and Josh today caught my very first spring Chinook salmon what a great service he provides already booked 2 trips to buoy 10 in August!! read more

Very professional, open and honest. I would recommend his fishing services to anyone and to all my friends.

Myself and 3 other guys went sturgeon fishing with Marvin this week. Marvin right away got us in a spot where we easily hooked 30 fish that day! Fishing with Marvin, felt like fishing with a family member or good friend. We couldn't of asked for a better day of fishing, but the laughs and interaction with him made the trip! Thanks Marvin! read more

First time out with Marvin. He was easy to get a hold of to confirm time and location of our trip. When we arrived at the dock in the AM he was ready to go. Spent the day out there learning everything that I could from Marvin and he was happy to share his knowledge of fishing in the Pacific NW. He was engaging and entertaining, even though we went home empty handed it was a trip I will always remember. I would recommend Marvin to anyone who wants a fun day on the river (fish or no fish). read more

Marvin is fabulous. Caught our limit in a couple of hours. Pleasant company as well. Knows his stuff and is feared by fish the world over. Go with the best!! read more

I have fished several times with Marvin over the years. He is always prepared, knows where the fish are, and puts us on them. I whole heartedly recommend Marvin's guide service! Can't wait to fish with Marvin again! read more

Really enjoyed my trip with Marvin. I took my older sons out sturgeon fishing last January. Caught lots of fish. No keepers but that isn't Marvin's fault. Awesome experience for me and my sons. :-) read more

Had a wonderful time on the water . Would definitely recommend his charter. Would like to go out again. He knows his stuff read more

Marvin's Guide Service - Fishing Near Me - Portland, Oregon

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I have known Marvin now for 2 August. My husband got to fish with him the first year. I was left to work. Thankfully this year I got to go out with Marvin 2 times. Once with my husband, father, and son. What stood out on this fishing trip wasn't the fish. My son was a bit sea sick at first and not really having any fun. Marvin made it fun for my son. It was a beautiful day on the water and he made my 14 year olds day! The second trip was with my husband and two other clients. Both trips were a great Success with the fish. And it was a fun and entertaining day as well. Lots of fish, lots of laughs, lots of great times. Can't wait for next season so I can go fishing with Marvin again.... THANK YOU MARVIN! read more

I have known Marvin for over 30 years. And have gone out with him many times. Excellent knowledge, and work to ake sure you have a successful trip. If you don't catch fish it will not be because he didn't try to get you on them. His equipment it great too. read more

We had a fantastic time fishing for sturgeon today with Marvin! He was fun, awesome and knowledgeable! We had a great time laughing and reeling in some big ones! I would def recommend this trip and Marvin as a guide. We already want to come back! Those fish really fight! What a great time! read more

Booked our first trip to Tillamook, with Marvin! he was amazing! I was so nervous, but he made me feel at ease. Although, had I known not to say, I don't like Coho much! that's all I kept catching, it was so much fun, like a Dance on the boat. Mind you, everyone else loved the Coho. Chinook and crab were brought in as well. I am ready to go again. best Dang trip EVER! you can't go wrong with Marvin's Guide Service. Just remember, if you love Coho, say you don't, when your on the boat! (lmao) Marvin knows his stuff! He'll get you on the fish for sure! read more

First time out with Marvin. Salmon were a little scarce (we had three on but couldn't land 'em) but had a blast! Marvin really seems to know what he's doing. He's also a really nice guy. Think I'll try sturgeon next time if he's got any room on the boat. read more

We went on a white sturgeon fishing trip with Marvin in early April. We caught 23 sturgeon in 7 hours ranging from 30" to a 7 and a half footer. It was an awesome time and if we are ever in the Portland area again I would not hesitate to book with marvin again. Great Rates, Great Fishing, very knowledgeable and the heated covered boat saved us from the cold, wet Portland weather. read more

Went out on 9*8/17 ......the eagle creek fire was in full burn. The CG closed down the river above reed island.....about 6 miles short of where we wanted to start fishing..... but I hope they get it contained. With that we still had a great time....1 on the boat one lost.....it was a very slow day but that is fishing. What made the trip so fun was that Marvin is a total character and just a lot of fun.......there were 4 of us and if anything he is certainly entertaining. As for the one fish......BBQ Sunday was great.....feel sorry for all those folks that caught nothing (which) was the majority so I would definitely say as a guide he did his job..... read more

What a wonderful way to spend a day in Portland. Marvin is a terrific guide and was especially good with our 12 year old son! He's got a great sense of humor -- and patience, after I forgot our printed licenses, despite his VERY clear instructions! The boat is the perfect size, the gear is easy to use. We caught enough fish to tire us out before the day was over. We fished for sturgeon which were a blast to catch. I loved the care Marvin took to keep the fish healthy. We'll definitely go out with Fast Action Fishing again! read more

Worst experience possible for someone who isnt a experienced fisherman. Caught a fish but the line broke so he started yelling like a mad man. Then he goes and complains behind your back to the other people on the boat. I will never go back to him and I will not recommend him ever. read more

I've been on Marvin's boat twice and we caught fish on both occasions. He is the kind of guy who knows his stuff and if anyone can lead you to the fish, Marvin can. He's a great guy who is very personable and easy to deal with. His boat is well maintained, he knows the areas he fishes and the other guides respect him. His prices are reasonable and his years of experience will put you in the right spot to catch a fish. Thanks again Marvin for another great trip! read more

Marvin is definitely The Man!!! Went fishing with him and his son in June and they put us on sturgeon for the day. We caught 19 for the day with three oversize...6,7,and 8 foot fish. He and his son were perfect hosts. Marvin is worth every cent. I recommend him highly and look forward to doing some salmon fishing with him soon. read more

went fishing with marvin on 30 June caught 6 sturgeon total 5 small ones and one oversize. had a great time Marvin was very knowledgeable and a good conversationalist. Will be going with him again Don read more

Ever watch River Monsters and wonder how and where you could catch a Big Daddy that will fight you up and down the river, too big to bring into the boat? If you live near Portland, its right in your backyard, on either the Willamette or Columbia Rivers depending on the time of year. Do you have the gear and boat needed? Most people don't so why not find a great guide who works his hind end off to make sure you have a great experience and is a good fisherman to boot. That's Marv Henkle. Whether its out for the big boys, or keeper Sturgeon; Buoy 10 or Tillamook Bay Salmon, my friends, family, and I haven't been disappointed. Not every trip is successful and no guide can promise that you'll fill the freezer but fish or no, we've always had a good time on Marvin's boat. On a recent trip, three of us caught 8 Sturgeon before 11 AM, 2 shakers and 6 over 6-feet in length, 3 of which were over 8 feet and a big monster that hit 10 feet. We were arm tired, bruised, and ready for a nap, but it was a blast for my son and father in law. I've already got my Buoy 10 trip booked later in the year. You want a nice fishing trip for a group of buddies, family members or just yourself? Give Marvin a call and ask what's biting. Check him out on Facebook and see what other clients say - you'll see pictures from our trip and good reviews from others. Tight lines. Update 10/16/13 - not sure why my review was removed because its legit. I enjoy fishing with Marvin and will do so again. read more

I feel Marvin has no professional boundaries. He should be able to know the lines of banter and when to stop. 2 days of this was enough for this girl. The last thing I want to hear is sex talk for 16 hours nonstop. I felt I spent a lot of money for a guide that could not put on fish. My would not recommend him to anyone. read more