Summer Fishing Trips in Oregon

Steelhead can be elusive and challenging, so anglers need to muster their patience and persistence. The prize is catching a fish that’s famous for putting up a spectacular, line-peeling fight. There are two main runs of steelhead in Oregon, in summer and in winter. Steelhead returning to rivers east of the Cascade mountains are considered the summer run. They begin migrating in March near the Oregon coast and as late as October or November in eastern Oregon. Summer steelhead remain in Oregon rivers for several months before spawning, offering plenty of opportunities for anglers on guided fishing trips. While the Winter run spawns soon after they enter their home streams.

If you’re planning one of your first summer fishing trips in Oregon, steelhead fishing offers a thrilling introduction to what the state’s waters have to offer. These powerful fish require both skill and patience, making them ideal for anglers who enjoy a rewarding challenge.

Many guided fishing trips for steelhead are available throughout the summer, particularly in rivers like the Clackamas, Deschutes, and John Day. With the help of a professional fishing guide, even novice anglers can have a successful and memorable day on the water.

For those unfamiliar with the terrain, guided fishing is highly recommended. These trips are not only more efficient, but they also provide valuable local knowledge that can dramatically improve your chances of success.

Though walleye can be caught year-round, in the Lower Columbia and Willamette rivers, around Portland, walleye fishing is best in the summer months, late June through September. These toothy predators can be aggressive feeders at times, and a lot of fun to catch. The Columbia River and Willamette Rivers have yielded record Oregon Walleye at more than 18 lbs.

Walleye are a favorite among many anglers on summer fishing trips in Oregon due to their size and the challenge they pose. Because they’re known for biting in low-light conditions, early morning or evening guided trips can offer the best results.

Hiring a fishing guide who specializes in walleye fishing can help you locate underwater structures and temperature breaks—prime spots to find fish. Advanced techniques such as trolling with bottom bouncers or jigging with soft plastics are often employed during these outings.

Whether you’re an experienced angler or just getting into the sport, guided fishing can make your time on the Columbia River both productive and educational.

One of Oregon’s better steelhead rivers is the Clackamas River, right outside Portland. It flows from the Cascade Mountains to the Willamette River just upstream from Portland and is open for steelhead fishing from the mouth up to the North Fork Reservoir. The first summer steelhead is usually caught in March, then peak between May to July, and decline in August. However, anglers can catch a fair number of summer steelhead into the fall.

The Clackamas River is popular for guided fishing trips because of its accessibility and the quality of the fishing experience. Whether you’re booking a half-day or full-day outing, many fishing charters provide all the gear, bait, and expertise needed to ensure you have a great time.

The river’s proximity to Portland makes it an ideal location for those looking to escape the city and enjoy a few hours of high-quality angling. For residents and visitors alike, this river is a go-to destination for relaxing and action-packed summer fishing trips in Oregon.

Summer anglers target steelhead in the Columbia River before they can get to tributaries, like the Clackamas, Sandy, and Deschutes rivers. The section of the river below Rainier begins producing good runs of summer steelhead in May or June and continues through mid-summer. From June to August steelhead are abundant between Portland and Rainier. In July and August, fishing peaks above Portland, up to the Dalles Dam.

In addition to steelhead, the Columbia River is a prime location for a salmon fishing trip, especially during the summer months. Chinook and coho runs offer fast-paced action and the opportunity to land trophy fish. These salmon are not only fun to catch, but they’re also delicious when grilled or smoked.

Fishing charters along the Columbia River often offer multi-species guided fishing, targeting salmon, steelhead, sturgeon, and walleye, depending on the season. These guided trips are an excellent way to explore one of the most iconic rivers in the Pacific Northwest.

A knowledgeable fishing guide can help you understand river flow, fish migration patterns, and the best bait and tackle for the time of year. Many guides are licensed captains who operate high-end boats equipped with top-tier technology to help you find fish with precision.

The Willamette River flows through Oregon’s major cities, carrying one of Oregon’s richest Shad runs. The Willamette Shad run is the Largest run of fish to enter the River and provides great action for those wanting to get out and Catch some fish close to the city. In addition to an Oregon fishing license, steelhead anglers need to purchase a Combined Angling Tag (steelhead, salmon, sturgeon and Pacific halibut). You also can purchase Hatchery Harvest Tags that authorize the harvest of additional hatchery fish.

The Willamette also sees good numbers of summer steelhead and smallmouth bass, offering a mixed-bag experience ideal for families. Many fishing charters operate in this river system, especially during weekends when recreational fishing is at its peak.

Fishing guides along the Willamette often provide useful instruction for beginners, making it a fantastic starting point for first-time anglers interested in summer fishing trips in Oregon. Even seasoned anglers can benefit from local insights and advanced gear provided during guided fishing excursions.

Some guides even offer nighttime or twilight trips for species like catfish and bass, expanding the adventure well beyond the typical day outing.

Ready to plan your next fishing adventure? Call Buddy at Columbia River Fishing Adventures today at (503) 490-3099 to book your trip or get expert advice on the best summer fishing trips in Oregon!