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Yes, catch-and-release sturgeon fishing is open in the John Day Pool below McNary Dam outside designated sanctuary closures; keeping sturgeon is closed. The seasonal sanctuary closure period listed by Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW)—May 1 through August 31—has passed for 2026, but verify the exact location and current rules before fishing.
Which side of McNary Dam do you mean?
ODFW defines the John Day Pool as the mainstem Columbia River from John Day Dam upstream to McNary Dam, including adjacent tributaries. The rules summarized here apply to that downstream reach. “At McNary Dam” can also mean the reservoir above the dam; the available ODFW material does not establish the current rule for that distinct upstream location, so check its regulations separately before fishing.
For the downstream reach, ODFW’s current update says sturgeon retention is closed in the Columbia River mainstem and reservoirs from Buoy 10 to McNary Dam. Catch-and-release is allowed except in sanctuary closure areas. Check ODFW’s current Columbia River regulations and updates before heading out, since in-season actions can change fishery rules.
Can you keep a sturgeon in the John Day Pool?
No. ODFW closed the 2026 John Day Pool white sturgeon retention fishery effective January 10. Its closure notice said managers projected that kept catch through January 9 would reach 101 fish, or 96 percent of the guideline. Those figures explain the 2026 closure decision; they are not a current population estimate.
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- Professional Grade Fishing Reel: The Chaos XS round baitcasting reel features a CNC caved, anti-line skip aluminum spool, this makes spooling much easier. The Chaos XS is built with a 7075 aircraft grade aluminum frame which reduces the weight of the reel by 10% without sacrificing strength and durability. It features precision cut brass gears and stainless steel ball bearings which will help ensure long lasting performance
- Innovative Cast Technology: The Chaos XS features a centrifugal brake, delivering superior casting performance. The innovative cast technology ensures a smoother & longer casting distance while reducing the chance of backlash
- Hight Performance: Designed to meet the demands of the most hardcore angler. The recessed reel foot helps the Chaos XS round reel keep a low profile on the rod making it easy to palm and cast. The oversized nonslip Rubber grips, clicker alarm, and the easy access thumb-bar all make using the Chaos XS a great experience
- Powerful: The Premium Carbon Fiber Drag System paired with a Japanese Haimai-Cut brass main gear provides up to 22 pounds of stopping power to stop trophy fish in their tracks
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Columbia River sturgeon retention fisheries are generally closed unless opened through an in-season action. The closure of retention does not itself prohibit catch-and-release fishing in waters where angling remains allowed.
Where are sturgeon fishing closures in effect?
Sturgeon angling is prohibited from May 1 through August 31 in designated sanctuary areas below dam tailraces. ODFW’s January 8, 2026 closure notice states: “Catch-and-release sturgeon fishing remains open in the mainstem Columbia, but all angling for sturgeon is prohibited May 1– Aug. 31 within sanctuary areas below each of the dam tailraces.” The 2026 seasonal window has ended, but this does not mean every place immediately around McNary Dam is open: sanctuary boundaries and any later rule changes still matter. Read ODFW’s closure notice and confirm the specific location you plan to fish.
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- PENN WARFARE LEVEL WIND 6’6” FISHING ROD AND REEL CONVENTIONAL COMBO: A versatile all-rounder made for winning battles with crappie, bass, catfish, and more. Level wind system keeps lines tidy and ready for battle.
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What tackle rule applies?
Oregon’s 2026 sport fishing regulations allow only one single-point, barbless hook when fishing for sturgeon. Use that tackle configuration and consult the 2026 Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations for the full rules; temporary regulations can supersede the annual booklet.
Quick Recap
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- Lightweight graphite frame and sideplates
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- High-carbon fiber blank with integrated one-piece molding eliminates weak connection points found in multi-piece assembly — delivering a more responsive, stronger rod. The solid carbon tip transmits even the lightest nibble directly to your hand, while the blank provides the backbone for hard hooksets on catfish and bass. Sensitivity you can trust.
- The metal spool lays line evenly, while the precise drag system helps prevent line breaks on sudden runs. 3+1 stainless steel ball bearings deliver smooth cranking, and the 3.8:1 low gear ratio generates massive winching power – ideal for dragging big fish out of deep holes or strong currents.
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- Durable Metal Construction：Built with a metal reel seat, stainless steel guide rings, and anti-corrosion components, this combo is designed to withstand harsh environments. The spiral-textured EVA handle offers a secure, non-slip grip in wet conditions.
- Easy to Carry, Built to Fight：The 2-piece combo design breaks down for easy transport and storage, making it a great choice for bank fishing, road trips, or boat adventures. With a line rating of 15-25 lb and a lure rating of 1-10 oz, this combo provides enough power for catfish, bass, and other big game fish. We offer a worry-free 2‑year service – contact us first for any issue, and we will solve it promptly.
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- 【25LB Carbon Drag & 3.8:1 Gear Ratio – Dominate Big Cats】Multi-disc carbon drag delivers 25 pounds of smooth, consistent stopping power. The 3.8:1 gear ratio provides the torque needed to turn big flatheads and blues away from heavy cover. Power where it counts
- 【Medium Heavy Two-Piece Rod – Power Meets Portability】15-30lb line rating, 1-4 oz lure weight. Expertly crafted with a blend of S-glass and carbon fiber for the perfect balance of backbone for big fish and sensitivity to detect light bites. Breaks down to fit in a car trunk or boat locker
- 【Corrosion-Resistant Construction – Saltwater Ready】One-piece graphite frame and sideplate with 3+1 stainless steel bearings. Double-wrapped stainless steel guides and a corrosion-resistant aluminum reel seat with stainless steel cover—built to withstand catfish slime, mud, and saltwater
- 【EVA Grips & 3D Stainless Steel Reel Seat – Secure & Convenient】Catfish casting rod handle grip made of EVA for a non-slip grip; 3D Stainless Steel reel seat with double lock ensures your reel is secure and stable.Integrated stainless steel hook keeper keeps your rig ready for the next castDesigned for long days on the water
- 【Versatile Performance – From Rivers to Offshore】Perfect for bottom fishing, bank fishing, drifting, and trolling. Target flathead catfish, channel catfish, blue catfish, salmon, steelhead, and other big game. Available in multiple lengths to match your style
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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