Anglers should confirm access before they go. All Metro Parks are closed due to fire danger. State parks and recreation areas appears open as of Sept. 16. 

Check Willamette Falls fish counts.

The upstream section between Albany and Harrisburg is open year-round for trout fishing, which can be very good when flows are cooperating. Anglers may keep two trout per day. Smallmouth bass also can be a lot of fun to catch and are plentiful between Salem and Corvallis.

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. And if fishing is slow, folks can take a dip to cool off.  

As of Sept. 16, the instantaneous reading at Portland was 21,200 cfs, and the water temperature has dropped to 60.6F