Idaho Fish Report

For week of March 25-31 preliminary catch/effort: estimated 1,449 boats and 128 bank anglers.‌

• Chinook- 101 kept, 26 released,
• Steelhead- 10 kept, 4 released.

See summaries for more details. ‌

• Spring Chinook
• Steelhead

River conditions and fish counts:‌

• April 1Willamette River Portland-Temperature/Visibility: 50 F, Visibility: 2.9 ft
• Willamette Falls Counts as of 3/31/24: 37 Chinook – 7,430 Winter Steelhead - 604 Summer Steelhead
• 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.