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    Marvin's Guide Service

    4.5 (37 reviews)
    Open 7:30 am - 9:00 pm

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    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.
    Gary S.

    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!

    Thanks Marvin for a great day on the Columbia River.. So much fun catching this salmon..
    Thyra K.

    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..

    Alan W.

    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!

    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.

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    13 years ago

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

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    Thank you look forward to fishing with you again and again

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    Ask the Community - Marvin's Guide Service

    Review Highlights - Marvin's Guide Service

    . At the end of the day we had over 50 sturgeon to the boat, including oversized fish and keepers to take home for dinner

    Mentioned in 8 reviews

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    Progress Lake

    Progress Lake

    5.0(2 reviews)
    15.1 mi

    Im not sure how successful folks are with catching fish in this large pond, but sitting by the dock…read moreis very peaceful. The lake is centered around the shopping mall so there are a few restaurant that overlook the lake. There are also ducks that live there.

    Came here today with fishing friend who did some actual fishing. Nothing was caught (fish 1 -…read morehumans 0), but it was really OK, and I thoroughly enjoyed sitting in my camping chair and watching the fish jump in the air and the world passing by. A few other people were down on the dock casting for fish, others sat on the various rock formations sort of zoning out, and it was a real pleasure to see the children and parents sharing something they really loved. If the youngsters aren't interested in the fishing, they can come down and feed the ducks - such fun. The water is so clear you can see down to rocks and plants on the bottom and also nearest the dock flashes of the goldfish as they glide along (these goldfish eventually grow into some very large carp). There are evidently some sturgeon as well along with the rainbow trout, and also lots of ducks and other water birds (a few still with babies). Oh yes, lots of dragonflies - flashes of black and fiery orange red - add to the charm. People who fish welcome you right into their society and talk readily about their fishing experiences and how the big one got away and even why. This is a terrific family experience and for those who want to come out alone. The best time is to come early, before 7, and especially after the lake has been re-stocked, if you want to catch some fish. But like I said, it's a wonderful experience whether fish are caught or not. Give it a try. And remember if you don't catch any fish, you can hike back up to the shopping center above and get some breakfast. Not a bad day at all, in fact a damn fine one if you ask me.

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    EastFork Outfitters

    EastFork Outfitters

    5.0(24 reviews)
    6.5 miOld Town - Chinatown

    We had such a fantastic day on the water with Matt! From start to finish, he made the experience…read morefun, stress-free, and incredibly rewarding. His knowledge of the area, the fish, and the best techniques was unmatched, and he was patient in explaining everything to beginners while also offering great tips to more experienced anglers. Not only did we catch plenty of fish, but we also learned so much along the way. Matt went above and beyond to make sure everyone felt comfortable, safe, and excited throughout the trip. You can he loves what he does, and that passion makes the experience even more memorable. If you're looking for a knowledgeable, friendly, and professional fishing guide who will make your trip both successful and enjoyable, I can't recommend Matt enough! We'll definitely be booking again.

    My boyfriend and I had a once in a lifetime experience fishing with Matt. Unfortunately salmon…read moreseason was cut short, so we fished for only sturgeon. However, we had the opportunity to catch and keep sturgeon only if it was between 44-50 inches; which occurs twice in a year. From beginning to start, Matt was super helpful with providing gear for me as it was my first time fishing. His boat was top of the line compared to the rest on the river that day. It had a hot water sink and very comfy chairs to sit in. He also had beers, waters on dec and had anti-nausea meds on board which was great for me since I was feeling sick. After 5 minutes, my boyfriend caught his first sturgeon that was 47 inches. And I caught one four hours later that was 45 inches. He allowed us to reel it in (which was a struggle for me, but worth it) and he took great photos after. We were the only 2 people that day to catch and keep our sturgeon. We couldn't have had a better experience and we got so lucky that day thanks to Matt! He ended up filet-ing our sturgeons and took 15 pounds of it home. It was the highlight of our trip to Portland. And we plan to come back in the spring once salmon season starts. If you're thinking about booking a trip with him, DO IT. You won't regret it!

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    EastFork Outfitters
    EastFork Outfitters - The biggest sturgeon of the day fishing with EastFork Outfitters.

    The biggest sturgeon of the day fishing with EastFork Outfitters.

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    Westmoreland Park Casting Pond

    Westmoreland Park Casting Pond

    5.0(2 reviews)
    5.5 miSellwood, Southeast Portland

    So far as I know this is the only public casting pond in the entire city. It's the perfect place…read morefor practicing casting your fly fishing rod. There are no fish to catch, and you do NOT want to Use this for swimming or boating. It's for casting only. It's drained in the winter, so only used in spring/summer/fall.

    I enjoyed the park. I had a good time walking around the park. After my walk I took my r/c replica…read moreof the USS Missouri battleship sailing out on the casting pond. I got lots of compliments and lots of kids gathered to see her sail by. Spent about an hour sailing her til the batteries went dead. And the she sat in the middle of the pond with no motors to speak of and no breeze to blow her ashore for about 30 minutes til this young man came to the shoreline where I stood and said sir I just happened to have an r/c speedboat at home. I live just across the street. I said please go get it and I will make it worth your efforts. Lol my ship cost me 100 bucks...this kid comes back with a 600 dollar Sonic Wake super catamaran speedboat capable of doing over 120 mph on the water. I just about had a cow. So he let me putt his speedboat out and gently nudge my ship to the dock. I said thanx and he said go ahead take mine for a spin. That cleared from 1 side of the pond to the other in less than 15 seconds!! It woulda took my ship about 15 minutes to sail it. What a fun day. I offered the boy 10 bucks and he said naw it was worth to see me giggle like a little kid as I drove his boat passed 3 girls spraying them with the rooster tail his boat makes.

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    Westmoreland Park Casting Pond
    Westmoreland Park Casting Pond
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    Sellwood Riverfront Park

    Sellwood Riverfront Park

    4.2(55 reviews)
    6.5 miSouthwest Portland

    let me weave a little magic into your Selwood Riverfront Park love letter! Picture this: you park…read moreyour car at Selwood Riverfront Park, that hidden gem tucked along Portland's Columbia Riverfront. It's not just a spot to leave your wheels-it's your gateway to paradise. The air hums with possibility, crisp river breeze carrying whispers of adventure. I swear, every visit feels like stepping into a painting where the Willamette and Columbia collide in a glorious, shimmering embrace. You're not just starting a walk; you're embarking on a love affair with the city's heartbeat. From here, Selwood's charm sets the stage-grassy lawns stretch lazily toward the water, perfect for a quick dog stretch or a stolen moment of calm before the loop begins. It's like the park winks at you, saying, Ready to fall for Portland all over again? Now, you hit the path toward the Steel Bridge, and holy wow, it's a sensory overload in the best way. The Columbia River stretches out, vast and majestic, like nature's own IMAX screen. Sunlight dances on the water, turning ripples into liquid gold while sailboats glide by like elegant swans showing off. Buildings tower on the horizon-sleek, historic, and everything in between-framing Portland's skyline like a postcard you didn't know you needed. People bustle past: joggers in neon, dog walkers with wagging sidekicks, and maybe a kid chasing dreams (or bubbles). It's grand, alive, and somehow intimate, like the city's letting you in on its secrets. I get chills just thinking about it-this loop isn't a hike; it's a front-row seat to Portland's soul. You'll catch fishermen casting lines, kayakers slicing through waves, and that one guy on a tandem bike who always looks thrilled (and slightly terrified). Halfway through, the dog park at Selwood steals the show-trust me, it's a riot. Pups of every shape zoom around like caffeinated rockets, yipping and wrestling in clouds of grass dust. Your own furry friend dives into the fray, tail wagging like a metronome on overdrive, and suddenly you're grinning at strangers who get it-these dogs don't care about your day; they just want zoomies! Kids laugh, owners sip coffee from overpriced but worth-it mugs, and the whole scene feels like a community hug. It's messy, joyful chaos that grounds you after the river's grandeur. This park isn't just a pitstop; it's where the loop's magic lingers, reminding you why you keep coming back. Pro tip: bring treats, and you'll be everyone's hero (especially the golden retrievers). By the time you circle back to Selwood, sweaty, happy, and probably craving tacos, you realize it's not just a walk-it's Portland's love letter to you. The Steel Bridge loop, starting from your favorite parking spot, isn't nice; it's life-affirming. Grand views, goofy dogs, and city swagger all wrapped in one two-mile hug. Do it at golden hour for sunset sorcery, or midday when the river sparkles like it's flirting. Either way, Selwood Riverfront Park is your launchpad to Portland's best-kept secret. I'm booking my dog for a playdate-join me?

    Visited this place for the first time today after an impromptu extended run that exceeded my…read moreinitial expectations. I followed the spring water path until I reached Sellwood Riverfront Park. The weather was lovely, and I am considering returning with my child and dog in the future.

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    Marvin's Guide Service - fishing - Updated May 2026

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