August 4 – October 7, 2017
Though angling developed centuries ago, the rise of recreational fishing as a popular pursuit took on a new dimension in the years after World War II. Towns such as Ilwaco and Chinook began to see new potential in recreational salmon fishing as an opportunity for business development. Salmon derbies were begun as a way to exploit rising interest in recreational fishing. Over time, other fishing derbies took hold on the Peninsula including the Surf Perch Derby and the Black Lake Fishing Derby.
In the early years, commercial fishing companies took sport-fishing customers out in their boats. Eventually, recreational fishermen arrived by the hundreds with their own small boats and launched right off the shore at what was called “Derbyville” (between Point Ellice and McGowan). Soon, knowledgeable fishermen took advantage of expanding opportunity by offering charter services. Thus emerged the charter-boat fishing industry, which has been a mainstay of the business landscape of Ilwaco for decades.
There will be an opening reception for this exciting new exhibition Friday, August 4th from 5-7pm. The exhibition will be on view through October 7, 2017. The Columbia Pacific Heritage Museum wishes to thank Saturday Market at the Port of Ilwaco, Chinook Marine, and the Port of Ilwaco for their sponsorship of this exhibition.