Salmon Fishing near Portland, Oregon
Discover the top places for salmon fishing near Portland, Oregon, in this 2025 guide. Learn about rivers, lakes, gear tips, licenses, and more.
Salmon fishing near Portland, Oregon, is more than just a hobby—it’s a beloved Pacific Northwest tradition. With easy access to iconic rivers, diverse salmon runs, and a strong local fishing culture, anglers of all experience levels can enjoy world-class salmon fishing just minutes from the city.
Whether you're planning your first salmon trip or you're a seasoned pro looking for new hotspots, this guide has everything you need to make the most of salmon fishing near Portland.
Overview of Salmon Fishing in Oregon
Types of Salmon in Oregon
The state of Oregon is home to five main salmon species:
- Chinook (King) Salmon – The largest and most prized catch, running in spring, summer, and fall.
- Coho (Silver) Salmon – Known for their fight and flavor, primarily run in fall.
- Sockeye Salmon – Rare in this region, but occasionally appear.
- Pink Salmon – Appear in odd-numbered years in very limited numbers.
- Chum Salmon – Not common near Portland, but present in some coastal streams.
Peak Salmon Seasons
Each salmon species has its own peak season:
| Salmon Species | Best Time to Fish |
|---|---|
| Spring Chinook | March – May |
| Summer Chinook | June – July |
| Fall Chinook | August – October |
| Coho Salmon | September – November |
Fishing License Requirements
To fish legally in Oregon, you'll need:
- An Oregon Angling License
- A Combined Angling Tag (for salmon, steelhead, sturgeon)
- An Invasive Species Permit (for boaters)
Licenses can be purchased online or at local sporting goods stores.
Top 10 Salmon Fishing Spots Near Portland
1. Columbia River
The Columbia River is Oregon’s crown jewel for salmon fishing. Accessible from multiple points near Portland, this massive river sees robust Chinook and Coho runs.
- Hotspots: Kelley Point Park, Sauvie Island, and near the Bonneville Dam
- Tip: Troll herring or spinners near river mouths for best results
2. Willamette River
Flowing through the heart of Portland, the Willamette offers surprisingly good salmon fishing, especially in spring.
- Hotspots: Sellwood Bridge, Milwaukie Bay Park
- Tip: Target spring Chinook in April and May using back-bouncing techniques
3. Sandy River
A beautiful tributary of the Columbia, the Sandy offers consistent salmon fishing within 30 minutes of downtown Portland.
- Access: Dodge Park, Lewis and Clark State Park
- Target: Both spring Chinook and fall Coho
4. Clackamas River
This river is a local favorite, known for accessible spring Chinook and a reliable Coho run.
- Hotspots: Barton Park, Carver Park
- Gear Tip: Drift fishing with roe or jigs works well
5. Multnomah Channel
This offshoot of the Willamette River is perfect for trolling spring Chinook.
- Locations: Scappoose Bay, near Gilbert River
- Tip: Anchor up and use spinner rigs during low tides
6. Wilson River
About 1.5 hours from Portland, this river near Tillamook is well-stocked with hatchery salmon.
- Access: Milepost pullouts on Highway 6
- Target Species: Fall Chinook and winter steelhead
7. Trask River
The Trask provides a quieter alternative with good bank access and less pressure.
- Location: Near Tillamook
- Gear Tip: Use eggs and bobbers for deeper pools
8. Nehalem River
An estuary-rich environment offering excellent Coho and Chinook fishing.
- Best Time: August to early October
- Boat Launches: Nehalem Bay Marina, Wheeler
9. Tillamook Bay
A legendary fishery for fall Chinook, only 1.5 hours from Portland.
- Best Techniques: Troll herring or plug-cut bait on the incoming tide
- Guides Available: Yes, many charter options exist
10. Nestucca River
Popular among both bank and drift boat anglers.
- Highlights: Near Pacific City, excellent for late-fall Coho
- Fishing Style: Drift fishing with eggs or plugs
Best Times to Catch Salmon Near Portland
Planning your trip around the salmon runs can make or break your success. Here’s a general calendar:
| Month | Species Available |
|---|---|
| March–May | Spring Chinook (Willamette, Sandy) |
| June–July | Summer Chinook (Columbia) |
| August–October | Fall Chinook, Coho (All rivers) |
| November | Late Coho (Clackamas, Nestucca) |
Always check run forecasts and river levels before heading out.
Essential Gear for Salmon Fishing
Rods and Reels
- Rod: Medium-heavy 8'6" to 10'6"
- Reel: Baitcasting or level-wind with a strong drag system
Line and Leaders
- Main Line: 30–40 lb braided
- Leader: 20–25 lb fluorocarbon
Lures and Bait
- Spinners (Blue Fox, Mepps)
- Herring (fresh or plug-cut)
- Salmon eggs or roe
- Kwikfish or Flatfish plugs
Bank Fishing vs Boat Fishing
Bank Fishing Pros:
- Low cost
- Easy access in places like Sandy or Clackamas Rivers
Boat Fishing Pros:
- Greater reach
- Ideal for trolling on big waters like the Columbia
Choose based on your budget, experience, and comfort level.
Hiring a Salmon Fishing Guide
If you're new or want a higher success rate, consider hiring a licensed guide:
- Average Cost: $200–$350 per day
- Benefits: Local knowledge, gear provided, safety
Search for guides near Portland or in coastal towns like Tillamook.
Salmon Fishing Regulations and Permits
Oregon has strict conservation rules. Here's a summary:
- Daily Bag Limit: Varies by river and season
- Barbless Hooks: Required on some rivers
- Check ODFW: Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife for up-to-date regulations
Violating fishing laws can result in steep fines or license suspension.
Family-Friendly Fishing Locations
If you're planning a salmon fishing trip with the whole family, consider spots that offer safe, accessible banks and nearby amenities.
Top Family-Friendly Locations:
- Dabney State Recreation Area (Sandy River) – Great bank access, restrooms, and picnic spots.
- Barton Park (Clackamas River) – Well-maintained trails and a boat launch for drift fishing.
- Sauvie Island (Multnomah Channel) – Quiet fishing areas with plenty of space for kids.
Tips for Fishing With Kids:
- Choose locations with minimal current.
- Pack snacks, water, and sunscreen.
- Use simple setups like bobber and bait for young anglers.
- Prioritize safety gear like life jackets near the water.
Tips for a Successful Salmon Fishing Trip
Even the best location won’t guarantee success without the right preparation.
Plan Around the Tides and Weather
- Incoming tides are best for estuary fishing.
- Overcast days often lead to more aggressive bites.
Use Fresh Bait
- Fresh or brined herring is often more effective than frozen.
- Carry backup lures like spinners or Kwikfish.
Practice Patience and Observation
- Watch for surface activity like jumping fish or rolling salmon.
- Look for seams in the current or underwater structure where salmon rest.
Handle Your Catch Properly
- Bleed the fish immediately.
- Keep it cold using a fish bag or cooler with ice.
- If releasing, keep the fish in the water and support it gently until it swims away.
Nearby Camping and Lodging Options
For anglers wanting an overnight trip, there are plenty of campgrounds and lodges near prime salmon rivers.
| Location | Type | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Barton Park (Clackamas) | Campground | Riverside sites, boat ramp |
| Wilson River (Tillamook) | Campgrounds | Tent and RV sites, fish cleaning station |
| Nehalem Bay State Park | Campground | Near estuary, family amenities |
| Jetty Fishery Marina | Lodge & Camping | Cabin rentals, boat rentals |
| Tillamook Bay City RV Park | RV Park | Full hookups, close to marina |
Local Fishing Stores and Tackle Shops
Get advice, gear, and updates from these trusted local shops:
- Fisherman’s Marine & Outdoor (Portland & Oregon City) – Large selection, helpful staff.
- Northwest Outdoor Store (Clackamas) – Great for tackle and licenses.
- Tillamook Sporting Goods – Essential stop for coastal anglers.
- Bob’s Sporting Goods (Longview) – Useful for Columbia River setups.
These shops often have up-to-date fishing reports and insider tips.
Sustainability and Ethical Fishing Practices
As more people enjoy salmon fishing, it’s vital to protect the resource for future generations.
Catch-and-Release Techniques
- Use barbless hooks.
- Minimize air exposure.
- Wet your hands before handling fish.
Respect the Rules
- Stay updated with regulations from ODFW.
- Don’t exceed catch limits.
- Report tagged fish if requested.
Support Hatcheries and Clean Rivers
- Volunteer for stream cleanups or hatchery programs.
- Pack out all trash, including fishing line and bait containers.
FAQs About Salmon Fishing Near Portland
1. Do I need a boat to catch salmon near Portland?
No, many rivers like the Sandy and Clackamas offer excellent bank access. However, boats are ideal for larger bodies like the Columbia.
2. What’s the best time of year to catch salmon near Portland?
Late spring (April–May) and fall (September–October) are the most productive times, depending on the salmon run.
3. Can I fish for salmon with kids?
Absolutely! Many spots like Barton Park and Sauvie Island are family-friendly and safe for young anglers.
4. Are there fishing guides near Portland?
Yes, numerous professional guides operate out of Portland and nearby coastal towns like Tillamook and Nehalem.
5. What bait works best for salmon in Oregon?
Fresh herring, cured salmon eggs, and spinners are all effective. Choice depends on the river and time of year.
6. How do I get an Oregon fishing license?
You can purchase a license online at myodfw.com, or at local fishing and sporting goods stores.
Conclusion
Salmon fishing near Portland, Oregon, offers an unforgettable outdoor experience, whether you’re casting from the bank of the Sandy River or trolling Tillamook Bay. With a little preparation, the right gear, and respect for local regulations, your next fishing trip can be not just successful—but legendary.
So pack your tackle box, grab your fishing license, and head out to discover the magic of Oregon’s salmon-filled waters.