Columbia River vs. Willamette River: Where to Catch More Salmon

For avid anglers in the Pacific Northwest, the debate of “Columbia River vs. Willamette River: Where to Catch More Salmon” is an ongoing discussion. Both rivers offer excellent fishing opportunities, but key differences make each location unique. Understanding the strengths and challenges of each river can help fishermen decide where to cast their lines for the best chance at landing a prized salmon.

Overview of the Columbia River and Willamette River

The Columbia River is the largest river in the Pacific Northwest, stretching over 1,200 miles from British Columbia to the Pacific Ocean. It is one of the most productive salmon fisheries in the world, with millions of salmon passing through each year on their way to spawning grounds. The river boasts a diverse range of fishing spots, from deep water near the Bonneville Dam to tidal zones near Astoria. Anglers from all over the region travel to the Columbia River due to its high fish yield and the variety of salmon species present throughout the year.

The Willamette River, on the other hand, is a major tributary of the Columbia River, flowing entirely within Oregon. It runs for about 187 miles and is best known for its accessibility and proximity to Portland and other urban areas. Although smaller than the Columbia, the Willamette still supports healthy salmon runs, making it a popular choice for local anglers. The river’s more manageable size and slower currents make it particularly appealing for those looking for an easier and more controlled fishing experience.

Salmon Species and Their Runs

When considering “Columbia River vs. Willamette River: Where to Catch More Salmon,” the first factor to examine is the variety and timing of salmon runs.

Columbia River

The Columbia River supports all five Pacific salmon species: Chinook, Coho, Sockeye, Chum, and Pink (though the latter two are less common). The most targeted species for anglers include:

• Spring Chinook: Running from March through June, these salmon are highly prized for their rich, flavorful meat. Their high oil content makes them one of the most sought-after salmon varieties.
• Summer Chinook: Arriving in June and lasting through August, these fish tend to be larger than their spring counterparts, often exceeding 20 pounds.
• Fall Chinook: One of the most abundant runs, peaking between August and October, drawing in thousands of anglers who seek high catch rates.
• Coho Salmon: Active in the fall, particularly September through November, and known for their aggressive behavior, making them exciting for sport fishing.
• Sockeye Salmon: A smaller but popular fish for sport anglers, running in early summer, often presenting a challenge due to their speed and agility.

Willamette River

The Willamette River primarily supports runs of Chinook and Coho salmon, with its most famous being:

• Spring Chinook: Typically running from late February through early June, these fish are a highlight of Willamette River fishing, prized for their delicate texture and superior taste.
• Fall Chinook: Less abundant than in the Columbia but still offering good fishing in September and October, particularly in the upper reaches of the river.
• Coho Salmon: Active in fall, peaking in October, and commonly found near the Clackamas River confluence, where they congregate in large numbers before spawning.

Best Fishing Locations in Each River

Columbia River

1. Buoy 10 (Astoria): One of the premier salmon fishing spots, particularly for fall Chinook and Coho. The mixing of salt and freshwater creates ideal conditions for staging salmon before they move upriver, making this location one of the most productive in the region.
2. Bonneville Dam: A prime location for targeting Chinook salmon, especially during peak migration. Anglers can fish from boats or along the shore, taking advantage of the fish ladder bottleneck that concentrates large numbers of salmon in a small area.
3. The Dalles & John Day Dam: Known for its consistent fishing opportunities for Chinook and Coho salmon. The combination of strong currents and deep pools creates the perfect environment for holding fish before they continue their journey upstream.
4. Hanford Reach: The last free-flowing section of the Columbia, where fall Chinook fishing is spectacular. This area offers a pristine natural setting and excellent fishing for those willing to travel to more remote locations.

Willamette River

1. Willamette Falls (Oregon City): A major bottleneck for salmon migrating upriver, making it one of the most productive spots for spring Chinook. Many anglers prefer this location due to its accessibility and high fish concentration.
2. Portland Harbor: A convenient location for urban anglers targeting fall Chinook and Coho. Despite being near an urban center, this spot provides excellent fishing with easy access to docks and boat launches.
3. Newberg Pool: Less crowded and an excellent choice for those targeting spring Chinook. The slow-moving waters make for a relaxing fishing experience, especially for those using bobber and bait techniques.
4. Clackamas River Confluence: A hotspot for Coho salmon, particularly in the fall. This area is known for its relatively clear waters and abundant fish populations, making it a go-to destination for fall salmon fishing.

Fishing Techniques and Regulations

Understanding the best techniques and legal considerations for each river is essential when debating “Columbia River vs. Willamette River: Where to Catch More Salmon.”

Columbia River

• Trolling: One of the most effective methods, especially near Buoy 10, where salmon congregate before moving upriver.
• Drift Fishing: A common approach in deeper sections, allowing anglers to cover more area and reach fish holding in mid-river.
• Plunking: Used in areas with strong currents, where bait presentation is key to attracting fish.
• Regulations: Heavily managed with specific seasons, size limits, and retention rules. Barbless hooks are often required to minimize harm to released fish.

Willamette River

• Back-Bouncing: Effective for targeting Chinook near Willamette Falls, as the technique keeps bait in the strike zone longer.
• Casting Spinners: Great for Coho salmon in slower-moving sections, as these fish are known to aggressively strike flashy lures.
• Bobber Fishing: A popular method, especially in the Newberg Pool, where suspended bait presentations are highly effective.
• Regulations: Similar to the Columbia, with barbless hook requirements and seasonal closures designed to protect spawning fish.

 

The debate of “Columbia River vs. Willamette River: Where to Catch More Salmon” ultimately depends on what factors matter most to an angler. The Columbia River offers unparalleled salmon abundance and diverse fishing opportunities, making it the best choice for those seeking a high-volume experience. Meanwhile, the Willamette River provides excellent fishing with more accessible urban locations and potentially less competition.

For anglers looking to maximize their chances, a strategic approach combining both rivers at different times of the year is ideal. Regardless of which river one chooses, both offer thrilling salmon fishing experiences in the heart of the Pacific Northwest.