Visit in the middle of January, and you’ll be in good company – this is when the Steelhead make their annual winter run to the river!

Sturgeon can be found in these waters year-round, so if you want to battle these prehistoric beasts when the river is quieter, February is the perfect time to visit.

A larger number of anglers start flocking to the Willamette River – the Chinook Salmon spring run is almost upon us, after all! This month is peak season for Steelhead, and Sturgeon can be found throughout the river.

It’s time to hook yourself some Chinook! April is considered to be far and away the best month to hook these freshwater favorites. Steelhead can still be caught all throughout April in the lower part of the river.

 Although they can be found in these waters year-round, May signals the real start of Sturgeon season. Come hook yourself a prehistoric beast! You’ll still be able to battle Chinook and Steelhead, too.

Depending on water and weather conditions, you may still be able to target the last remaining Chinook Salmon – head to the waters close to Downtown Portland for the best chance. Sturgeon fishing remains strong.

As temperatures rise on land, why not head to the Willamette River to experience another kind of heat – the bite of a majestic Sturgeon! You’ll find this prehistoric fish all throughout the river.

This is the perfect time to battle some summer Steelhead – this species is particularly feisty during this month! Sturgeon fishing remains strong, too.

If you’re looking to hook the river’s small but mighty population of Coho Salmon, September is the time to do it! Head to the lower section of the river, near the Tulatin and Santiam tributaries, for your best shot.

Head to the lower section of the river for a Sturgeon bonanza – this is considered one of the best months to target them, thanks to their love of muddy waters. You can hook the last of the Coho around this area, too.

Sturgeon fishing remains seriously strong in November – and the wetter the weather, the better! Stay close to the lower Willamette River, where you’ll find this species gathering in large numbers.

Why not finish your year off with some incredible freshwater fishing? Sturgeon fishing is still some of the best you’ll find in the northwest, and midway through December, you’ll be able to target the Steelhead winter run.