Siuslaw River
The Siuslaw River is one of Oregon’s top spots for Big King Salmon fishing. During peak runs, anglers harvest 3,000 to 5,000 Chinook salmon. It’s a prime location, especially in September and October. The Siuslaw River is an easy drive from Eugene and Springfield, making it accessible for a day of fishing.
These waters are Captain Chad’s home turf. If you’re looking for the best salmon and steelhead experience, you’ve found it. Captain Chad’s expertise ensures you’ll be on the fish, ready to reel in those trophy catches. The thrill of catching fall salmon and winter steelhead here is unmatched. With On the Line Guide Service, you’re guaranteed a memorable day on the Siuslaw River.
Willamette River
The Willamette River is Oregon’s largest river, running entirely within the state. Known as a prime spot for anglers, it offers a variety of fishing opportunities throughout the year. Whether you’re after salmon, sturgeon, or other species, the Willamette has something for every fisherman.
Portland, Oregon
For those in or visiting Portland, the Willamette River couldn’t be more convenient. Flowing right through downtown, it’s one of the best urban fishing spots in the state. Just 10 miles from downtown, the river meets the Columbia, creating a productive fishing area. This section of the river is teeming with salmon, especially during their runs, and is also known for its sturgeon population. Whether casting from the bank or trolling from a boat, you’re likely to find plenty of action here.
St. Helens, Oregon
Located downstream from the mouth of the Multnomah Channel, St. Helens is a top spot for spring Chinook fishing. This area is on the main travel route for these prized salmon, making it a popular choice for anglers looking to hook into one of Oregon’s most sought-after fish. The currents and structure here create ideal conditions for both Chinook and other species that thrive in these waters.
Columbia River
Salmon fishing is the main draw to the Columbia River, which stretches from the Oregon coast all the way to Portland. This mighty river is home to some of the healthiest salmon populations in the region, making the fishing seasons fairly reliable year after year. While salmon fishing is popular throughout the year, the winter months are often the peak season, offering some of the best chances to reel in these prized fish.
Cathlamet, Washington
Cathlamet is a top spot on the lower Columbia River, known as a prime “holding area” for salmon. In this stretch of river, Spring Chinook often slow down their migration and linger. Making Cathlamet an excellent choice for anglers looking to catch salmon along their journey.
Vancouver, Washington
Located just minutes from Portland, Oregon, and Vancouver, Washington, the Columbia River offers fantastic recreational fishing opportunities. Whether you’re a local or visiting, you won’t want to miss out on these prime angling spots. The river’s proximity makes it easy to enjoy a day of fishing without needing to venture far from home or your hotel.
McKenzie River
The McKenzie River is one of Oregon’s most stocked rivers, thanks to several trout fish hatcheries. Spanning 1,300 square miles, the McKenzie is a vast network of tributaries, streams, and lakes, providing diverse habitats for a variety of fish species. Anglers can expect to find both wild and hatchery trout, as well as spring Chinook, summer steelhead, sturgeon, and more. Whether you’re fly fishing for trout or targeting larger game fish, the McKenzie River offers something for everyone in the heart of Oregon.
Depoe Bay
Depoe Bay is home to a variety of fish such as lingcod, coho salmon, chinook salmon, halibut and more. It is also a great place to spot whales, go crabbing, and bottomfish.
Siletz River
The Siletz River houses spring summer and winter runs of Steelhead and fish can be caught year round. Anglers on the Siletz River take home about 4,00 hatchery fish in a calendar year. The Siletz River enters the Pacific Ocean at Lincoln City, a popular beach town within easy reach of Salem and Portland.
Umpqua River
The Umpqua River is located near Roseburg, Oregon and is a great river for catching salmon and steelhead. The rapids, rocks and willows make this river a fun challenge in the winter months.
Newport, Oregon
Newport is a premier spot for fishing charter tours along the Oregon coast. Here you will catch a variety of ocean delicacies such as salmon, halibut, and cod. Newport is also known as the “Dungeness Capital of the World”.
Winchester Bay
Winchester Bay is on the Central Oregon Coast. It’s a top spot for salmon fishing in the Pacific Northwest. Fishing here is best from July to September. During this time, you can find Chinook salmon and Coho. These fish are in waters less than 300 feet deep. Winchester Bay offers accessible and rewarding fishing for all anglers.
Santiam River
The Santium River is a 92-mile tributary in western Oregon and is host to a variety of native fish species such as Rainbow Trout, Winter Run Steelhead, and Spring Chinook Salmon. The Winter Steelhead use the unimpeded tributaries for spawning and rearing habitat.