Clackamas River - Estacada, OR
River Information
| Fish Species: | Chinook Salmon, Coho Salmon, Cutthroat Trout, Steelhead |
The Clackamas River, near Estacada, Oregon, is a significant and highly valued system, renowned for its anadromous fish runs. It offers diverse angling for winter and summer steelhead, spring and fall Chinook salmon, Coho salmon, and resident rainbow/cutthroat trout. This makes it a prime destination within reach of the Portland area.
Fishing conditions are variable, influenced by seasonal flows; optimal periods occur when water levels are favorable. While recent reports indicate slow spring Chinook and summer steelhead, fish are still being caught. Anglers primarily use drifting bait, casting lures/spinners, or bobber and jig setups for salmon and steelhead. Fly fishing is also a very effective method, particularly for steelhead and trout.
Access to the Clackamas River is extensive, with numerous public points and boat ramps, including ADA-accessible facilities. Conservation is crucial for its valuable fisheries. Anglers must strictly adhere to all Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife (ODFW) regulations, which include complex rules on seasons, bag limits, and gear restrictions (e.g., artificial flies and lures only in certain sections). The Clackamas River offers a rewarding and diverse angling experience in a beautiful, accessible setting.
Fishing conditions are variable, influenced by seasonal flows; optimal periods occur when water levels are favorable. While recent reports indicate slow spring Chinook and summer steelhead, fish are still being caught. Anglers primarily use drifting bait, casting lures/spinners, or bobber and jig setups for salmon and steelhead. Fly fishing is also a very effective method, particularly for steelhead and trout.
Access to the Clackamas River is extensive, with numerous public points and boat ramps, including ADA-accessible facilities. Conservation is crucial for its valuable fisheries. Anglers must strictly adhere to all Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife (ODFW) regulations, which include complex rules on seasons, bag limits, and gear restrictions (e.g., artificial flies and lures only in certain sections). The Clackamas River offers a rewarding and diverse angling experience in a beautiful, accessible setting.
Latest Fish Reports
| Date | Report | Author |
| 12-4-2025 | Winter steelhead are finally on the horizon Though there are still some late returning coho... more » |
OR Department of Fish & Wildlife Staff |
| 12-4-2025 | Anglers can expect to find greater numbers in the system with each passing rain event throughout the winter Though there are still some late returning coho... more » |
OR Department of Fish & Wildlife Staff |
| 8-8-2025 | Clackamas River Updates Summer steelhead and spring Chinook can be found... more » |
OR Department of Fish & Wildlife Staff |
| 7-17-2025 | Summer steelhead can now be found Summer steelhead can now be found in the... more » |
OR Department of Fish & Wildlife Staff |
| 4-3-2025 | Winter steelhead are still being caught throughout the system Winter steelhead are still being caught throughout the... more » |
OR Department of Fish & Wildlife Staff |
Detailed Map
