When I was on my way to Rocky Ford a week ago, I noticed that there were some boats out on the Columbia River. The first ones I spotted were fishing just above the launch at Hydro Park (Billingsley) on the way to Rock Island. I know this is a popular winter walleye spot, and there were two boats on the water when I passed by. I understand that most anglers like to fish this in the dark. I have seen some photos of walleye of 12 pounds taken in this area. I have fished this myself with bottom walkers and spinners, but it was later in the day and I didn’t get a bite. I know that it is worth exploring as I have seen anglers here in the winter year after year. The other spot that I saw a boat was at the small islands below Rock Island Dam. This has been a good spot for big walleye for years. I have fished it in the past with my brother Rick Graybill and we have caught some dandies in here. I would approach this area with extreme caution if you are not familiar with it. Sometimes these islands are not visible when the water is up