Anglers should confirm access before they go. All Metro Parks and boat ramps are now open but may have modified operations. Check conditions at individual parks on Metro’s website. State parks and recreation areas appear open.

The upstream section between Albany and Harrisburg is open year-round for trout fishing, which can be very good when flows are cooperating. Flows are settling down nicely after a prolonged wet spring and fishing for smallmouth bass and trout should be excellent. Look for deep slot pools and the tail-end of long riffles and the head of pools where the fish are likely stacked up in feeding lanes.

Water temperatures have warmed up considerably this past week, generally in the low to mid 70s at Albany and upper 60s reported at Harrisburg. Smallmouth bass also can be a lot of fun to catch and are plentiful between Salem and Corvallis during the spring and summer. Trout prefer the cooler temperatures upstream of Corvallis. From Salem downstream there are plenty of largemouth bass in the deeper, quieter sections.

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.

Notice for Boaters: Buena Vista Park boat ramp between Albany and Independence will be closed to all access starting May 23 and continuing through the end of September.  This will affect boaters floating down from Albany, and the I-5 rest stop boat ramp on the Santiam.  The next take out downstream is at the city of Independence about 10 miles downstream.