Anglers should confirm access before they go. All Metro Parks and boat ramps are now open, but may have modified operations. Check conditions at individual parks on Metro’s website. State parks and recreation areas appear open.

Check Willamette Falls fish counts.

The upstream section between Albany and Harrisburg is open year-round for trout fishing, which can be very good when flows are cooperating. Anglers may keep two trout per day. Smallmouth bass also can be a lot of fun to catch and are plentiful between Salem and Corvallis.

The fish ladder at Willamette Falls has re-opened and salmon are migrating up into the rive4r above, including over 3,700 coho salmon on the first day. 

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.

As of Jan. 6, the instantaneous reading below the falls at Oregon City showed a gage height 19.61 ft. Water temperature in Portland was close to 47F.