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.

Coho salmon have arrived and are now available to anglers. As of Oct. 1, over 9,400 adults have been counted at the Willamette Falls fish ladder. While the river is still low, these fish tend to concentrate at the mouths of tributary rivers such as the Yamhill, Mollala, Rickreall, Luckiamute, and the Santiam, waiting for the fall rains. Anglers who can get out on a boat will have the advantage, but they can also be caught from the bank. Daily bag limit is 2 adult fish per day.

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