Get salmon in the Gorge

The most popular spot to buy salmon in the Gorge is in Cascade Locks, but I prefer the mysterious salmon sellers in White Salmon across from the fish hatchery (go left off the Hood River Bridge). Sometimes there is a sign that says “Fresh Fish Here” and other times you just have to go wonder around until you see someone who looks like he/she might have a catch.

Yes, the fishing encampment looks sketchy, but the fish is fresh and cheap. I’ve even made steelhead trout sashimi from a catch of the day. Just check that the fish’s eyeballs are clear and look alive and that it smells like water, not like fish.

Roast the fish hole at 425 degrees for about 10 minutes with some lemons, thyme and salt & pepper stuffed in the cavity.