The Best Time & Places to Catch Salmon in Portland, Oregon This 2025

 

Portland, Oregon, is a paradise for salmon anglers, offering an abundance of prime fishing locations and a variety of salmon runs throughout the year. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner looking to experience the thrill of salmon fishing, knowing the best time and places to catch salmon in Portland is essential for a successful outing. In this guide, we’ll cover the peak seasons, top fishing spots, and essential tips to maximize your chances of landing a prized catch in 2025.

Best Time to Catch Salmon in Portland, Oregon

Salmon fishing in Portland follows a seasonal pattern, with different salmon species peaking at various times of the year. Here’s what to expect in 2025:

Spring Chinook Salmon (March – June)

Spring Chinook, often called “springers,” are highly prized for their rich flavor. The best time to catch salmon in Portland during spring is from late March through early June. These fish enter the Columbia and Willamette Rivers, making them accessible from multiple fishing spots in and around the city. Anglers use techniques like trolling, drift fishing, and casting to increase their chances. Springers are known for their strength and agility, making them an exciting catch for any angler.

Summer Steelhead & Sockeye (June – August)

Although technically not salmon, summer steelhead and sockeye runs provide excellent fishing opportunities in the summer months. Steelhead are aggressive fighters, making them a fun challenge for anglers. Sockeye salmon, though less common in Portland’s waters, can sometimes be found in deeper channels. This season offers longer daylight hours, making it perfect for both early morning and late evening fishing trips. Anglers often use fly fishing and drift fishing techniques to target these hard-fighting fish.

Fall Chinook & Coho Salmon (August – November)

The fall run is the most anticipated salmon season in Portland. Fall Chinook and coho salmon return in large numbers, offering anglers a high probability of success. Peak fishing occurs from late August through November, with September and October being particularly productive. This is when many anglers flock to the rivers, as these fish are known for their aggressive strikes and large size. Using large spinners, plugs, and baitfish imitations can be very effective. The fall season also provides an incredible opportunity for bank anglers to land trophy-sized salmon.

Winter Steelhead (December – February)

Though not as popular as fall and spring runs, winter steelhead provide opportunities for dedicated anglers who don’t mind braving the colder months. Many rivers around Portland remain open for fishing year-round. These fish are known for their resilience and put up an incredible fight. The winter season requires heavier gear and more patience due to fluctuating water levels. However, for those who persist, the reward is a challenging yet satisfying catch in the cold waters of the Pacific Northwest.

Best Places to Catch Salmon in Portland, Oregon

Portland is surrounded by an extensive network of rivers, providing numerous prime fishing locations. Below are some of the top spots to catch salmon in Portland in 2025.

1. Willamette River

The Willamette River runs through the heart of Portland and is a top destination for salmon fishing. In spring, it hosts a significant run of Chinook salmon, particularly in the lower stretches near the falls at Oregon City. Anglers often have success using trolling techniques with herring or spinners. The river also provides good opportunities for bank fishing, especially in areas with slower-moving water and deeper pools where salmon tend to rest before continuing their journey upstream.

2. Columbia River

The Columbia River is one of the most famous salmon fishing locations in the Pacific Northwest. Several access points around Portland, such as Kelly Point Park and Sauvie Island, provide excellent opportunities to target both spring and fall Chinook, as well as coho salmon. Trolling with baitfish, such as anchovies or herring, is a popular method here. The Columbia’s vast size means that boat fishing is ideal, but there are also plenty of bank fishing spots where anglers can have success. The changing tides and water levels make this a dynamic fishing location that requires adaptability and strategy.

3. Clackamas River

Just a short drive from Portland, the Clackamas River is an excellent place to catch salmon in Portland. It offers both spring and fall Chinook runs, along with coho salmon in the fall. The river is ideal for both bank and boat fishing, with drift fishing being a preferred technique. The Clackamas is known for its relatively clear water, making it easier to spot fish and adjust fishing techniques accordingly. Fly fishing enthusiasts also frequent this river, as salmon here respond well to flies mimicking their natural prey.

4. Sandy River

Another fantastic location near Portland, the Sandy River is particularly well-known for its spring and fall Chinook runs. The river is easily accessible, and anglers often have luck fishing from the banks using bobber and bait setups or casting spinners. The Sandy River’s cooler water temperatures make it an ideal habitat for salmon throughout the year. Fishing near deeper pools, log jams, and bends in the river can significantly increase success rates.

5. Multnomah Channel

This narrow waterway off the Willamette River is a hidden gem for salmon fishing. It is a hotspot for spring and fall Chinook fishing, and because it is less crowded than the main Willamette or Columbia, anglers often find better success here. The slower-moving waters of the channel allow for different fishing techniques, such as back-bouncing bait or casting spinners near submerged structures where salmon tend to congregate.

6. Tillamook Bay (Bonus Coastal Spot)

Although not in Portland proper, Tillamook Bay is a short drive from the city and is one of the best places to target fall Chinook. It provides an excellent opportunity for anglers looking for coastal salmon fishing. The bay’s tidal influences make timing crucial, and many anglers prefer fishing near the mouths of rivers feeding into the bay. Using larger baits and deep-diving plugs can be highly effective in these waters.

For anyone looking to catch salmon in Portland, Oregon, 2025 promises to be an exciting year. With a variety of salmon runs occurring throughout the year and an abundance of fishing locations to choose from, anglers have plenty of opportunities to land their dream fish. By targeting the right locations, using the best gear, and following the proper techniques, you can maximize your chances of success. Whether you’re fishing from the banks of the Willamette or Columbia Rivers or venturing to the nearby Clackamas and Sandy Rivers, Portland’s salmon fishing scene is one of the best in the Pacific Northwest.

So grab your gear, plan your trip, and get ready to experience the thrill of catching salmon in Portland in 2025!