Willamette River Steelhead Fishing Tips

Timing

Steelhead run year-round, but the best is time is spring and late fall. The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife's website states that winter steelhead generally return to rivers from November through May. Many of the biggest fish are usually taken in the early part of the spring run.

Locations

A great spot for fishing from shore is the area just below Dexter Dam as the fish are attracted to the area by the hatchery emptying water into the river. The Island Park area has excellent steelhead fishing down to Baker Park, in Springfield, and Whitely Landing, near Eugene, because Oregon Fish and Wildlife stock smolt in the area, which the steelhead feed on, yet get little pressure from fisherman. Pengra Access Ramp is popular with drift fisherman as it has good fishing in both directions.

Bait

Wet flies generally work better than dry as steelhead like to hang on the bottom of the river. Many experienced steelhead anglers on the Willamette use leech and nymph patterns in darker or bright colors such as black, blue and pink.

Artificial spinner baits and spoons or plugs in bright colors have good success as well. For bait fishing, fish eggs used with sand shrimp can be effective.

Method

Fishing from the shore or boat will work equally as well on the Willamette River as you will generally find steelhead in close to shore in shallower water. Drifting a bait along the bottom with a erratic retrieve will trigger the most strikes.

Remember, the Willamette is a big river and the best steelhead method is to find a productive spot that the fish are traveling through and let them come to you. Whatever method you chose, use heavy tackle as steelhead are big, strong fish.