Portland Fishing Reports

Real-Time Columbia River & Willamette River Fishing Updates

Stay ahead of the bite with the latest reports from JT’s NW Guide Service. Whether we are navigating the tidal flows of the Columbia River, the scenic bends of the Willamette River, or the rugged Pacific Ocean, our reports provide real-time data on water temperatures, clarity, and active runs. As of January 2026, we are seeing excellent winter conditions with a strong push of Steelhead and consistent catch-and-release Sturgeon action near Portland and Astoria. These updates are designed to help you time your booking perfectly, ensuring you are on the water when the fish are most active.

Trophy Fish Caught

Recent excursions have yielded spectacular results, including several "dinosaur" class White Sturgeon measuring over six feet in length. On the Columbia River, our guests have been battling these prehistoric giants, often referred to as the "Tarpon of the Northwest" for their acrobatic leaps and sheer power. Additionally, we are seeing the first signs of the 2026 Spring Chinook run, with early "Springers" starting to show in the lower river. Landing a trophy fish in these waters is a bucket-list experience, and our gallery is constantly updated with "chrome" bright Salmon and massive Sturgeon that prove why this region is a world-class fishing destination.

Family-Friendly Fishing Adventures

At JT’s NW Guide Service, we believe the best memories are made together on the water. Our family-friendly fishing trips are specifically designed to be approachable and fun for all ages, from young children catching their first fish to grandparents enjoying a comfortable day on our 28-foot vessel. Safety is our top priority; we provide all necessary USCG-approved life jackets and a stable, high-sided boat that ensures a secure environment for kids. Our guided adventures are educational and easy-going, focusing on the joy of the catch rather than high-pressure tactics, making us the preferred choice for a memorable family outing in Oregon.

Fishing Year-Round in Oregon

One of the greatest advantages of the Pacific Northwest is the ability to enjoy fishing year-round. From the peak Summer Salmon runs in July and August to the winter Steelhead and Walleye bites in January, there is never a "down" season. During the winter months, we focus on the resilient Sturgeon and the arrival of winter Steelhead, while spring brings the highly-coveted Chinook Salmon. In late autumn and early winter, our Pacific Ocean crabbing trips offer a bounty of Dungeness crab. Because we operate across multiple waterbodies, we can pivot our location based on current regulations and fish migrations, ensuring your trip is successful regardless of the month.

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The Salmon Are Running—Chrome Bright Action on the Mighty Columbia fishing report coverpicture

January 20, 2026

Columbia River - Clatsop, OR Inshore Report on 20th Jan, 2026

The current season on the Columbia River is delivering exactly what Pacific Northwest anglers dream of: consistent action and hard-fighting fish. We are seeing a strong push of Salmon moving through the system, with many fish showing that distinctive "chrome" brightness that indicates they are fresh from the salt. Our recent Oregon guided fishing trips have been focusing on key transition zones where the current stacks these fish up, leading to multiple-hookup mornings and very happy clients. Water temperatures and flow rates have stabilized, creating ideal conditions for trolling. We’ve had the most success using a mix of traditional flasher setups and localized bait scents that the local Salmon simply can't resist. Whether we are launching early to catch the first light bite or timing our drifts with the tide, the 28-foot Nemesis has been putting our guests right on top of the schools. In addition to the Salmon excitement, the Sturgeon catch and release fishery remains a reliable powerhouse. We are encountering massive fish that provide an incredible battle for anyone looking to test their strength. For those looking ahead, our crabbing trips are just around the corner, and the early scouting reports look promising. With all gear included and Todd’s expert navigation, now is the perfect time to get on the water before the peak season dates are completely filled.