If you’re a freshwater angler, then nothing quite beats fishing in Portland, Oregon. This quirky city is located right at the meeting point of the Columbia and Willamette Rivers, and boasts a whole host of other smaller waterways. This means one thing – there’s plenty of fish to target!
Salmon are top of many anglers’ wish lists in Portland, and Chinook and Coho varieties are the most popular targets. Chinook kick off the fishing season in March along the Columbia and Willamette Rivers, and stay strong throughout summer. In fall, many anglers head to the waters around the Bonneville Dam for trophy Chinook and Coho. It’s also not uncommon to encounter Sockeye Salmon in the lower Columbia River and its tributaries, especially in summer.
Salmon aren’t all that’s on offer here, though. You can experience two Steelhead runs, taking place during summer and winter in the Columbia and Cowlitz Rivers. The Clackamas River is especially popular for Steelies in winter! Then there’s Portland’s Sturgeon fishing. The Columbia and Willamette Rivers see a steady population of these prehistoric beasts year-round, which means you can catch and release them whenever you visit.
You’ll find a whole host of fishing charters dotted around Portland. Some of the most popular departure points are around the mouth of the Columbia River and at the meeting point of the Columbia and Willamette Rivers. Local guides offer trips running anywhere from a quick half day out on the water to full day trophy-chasing excursions. You’ll have plenty of options to choose from!
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Any angler age 12 and above will need a valid fishing license to cast a line in Portland. If you’re exploring the Columbia River, you’ll also need a Columbia River Basin Endorsement.