River visibility was poor last week and not much effort.  Preliminary catch estimates for March 13-19, below Willamette Falls to mouth (including Multnomah Channel) are: Chinook- 18 Kept, 0 Released / Steelhead- 0 Kept, 4 Released.

See weekly summaries for more details.

• 2023 Chinook
• 2023 Steelhead
• 2023 Sturgeon

River conditions:

• March 23 Willamette River Portland-Temperature/Visibility: 47°F, Visibility: 2.7ft
• Willamette Falls Counts as of 3/20/22: Chinook-7, Winter Steelhead- 1,241, Summer Steelhead-56
• Link to Willamette River Morrison Bridge Hydro Data
• Link to NOAA-Willamette River Forecast (Salem)

The upstream section between Albany and Harrisburg is open year-round for trout fishing, which can be very good when flows are cooperating. Look for deep slot pools and the tail-end of long riffles and the head of pools where the fish are likely stacked up in feeding lanes.

Smallmouth bass can be a lot of fun to catch and are plentiful between Salem and Corvallis during the spring and summer. Trout prefer the cooler temperatures upstream of Corvallis. From Salem downstream there are plenty of largemouth bass in the deeper, quieter sections.

The river is ideal for small boats such as canoes and kayaks, but there are enough public access points for bank anglers as well. Consult Oregon Parks and Recreation Department for specific locations. 

The Willamette often gets overlooked because it is so close. But this river offers convenience, fairly good access and variety.