River levels best for fishing are at or below 3,000 cfs, and the river is currently running at around 1,360 cfs at the gauge in Mehama. These flows should be the norm throughout the summer months. ‌

With the arrival of the first summer steelhead and Spring chinook of the season the fishing is beginning to heat up. This year's summer steelhead run is the strongest since 2016 with over 4,100 adults already counted at Stayton. As of July 7, they have counted over 17,600 adults passing above Willamette Falls.‌

Spring chinook numbers have improved from a relatively slow start. Over 19,500 adults have been counted at Willamette Falls so far. Currently, fish can be found throughout the river from the mouth up to Packsaddle Park near Gates.

There are several large, downed trees in the river creating some dangerous hazards for boaters in the lower river. For more information check out the Oregon State Marine Board website. ‌