Report Date:
http://www.dfw.state.or.us
Most salmon effort was below St. Johns Bridge. Oregon City/Gladstone area is good for shad fishing.
Preliminary catch estimates below Willamette Falls (including Multnomah Channel) for June 5 -11: Chinook kept 310; Chinook released 68.
See weekly summaries for more details.
River conditions:
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.
Boaters should be aware that Buena Vista boat ramp in Polk County at River Mile 106 will be closed from June 1 until Oct. 10, 2023, due a construction project. The next nearest boat ramp downstream is Independence Riverview Park at River Mile 95.
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.
