The Dalles

Thinking of heading out to the Dalles tomorrow (Monday). Not sure why exactly other than I have not fished the Columbia this far up before. Have a doctors appt. AM so will probably not hit the water until noonish. Anyhow, a few questions.

1. What am I looking for, or have the best chance of catching this time of year? Walleye, Smallmouth, Chinook, or whatever?
2. Does it matter that I wont be out at first light?
3. Any suggestions for boat ramps for put in or pools to fish?
4. Since I will be fishing alone any safety tips (aside form usual kayak practices) or hazards I should be aware of?

Thanks

Hey TX I suggest you go to the county ramp just below the bridge in The Dalles.  You can fish for smallmouth by paddling up river toward the bridge.  There is a stretch of rocky structure on the Oregon side.  The rocky rip-rap allows you to fish structure and gives a wind break.  The head of the rocks up river ends in a nice hole where the current is quite strong.  This is called the shaker hole (sturgeon).  The smallmouth fishing is supposed to be good, and the baby shad might be everywhere.  I would use motor oil gitzits on a 3/4oz jighead.  You should google earth it, you get a good view of the fishery and the ramp. There is good parking and it is patrolled.  If you go, your fishing in water about 12 feet deep (25ft is deepest at the hole).
-Scott