River levels best for fishing are at or below 3,000cfs, and the river is currently running at 1,670cfs at the gage in Mehama. Fishing for chinook is now closed until mid-October. Fishing for steelhead remains open year-round. At this time only a few coho have migrated above Willamette Falls, however another strong run is expected this year, and numbers should increase markedly over the next few weeks. Spin cast with lures or swing large streamer flies through the pools.

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.

Fishing for hatchery steelhead is open year-round. Bait is allowed between April 22 and October 31.