Fishing
Whether you are looking for world-class fly fishing or just want to bait a hook and sit on the bank in the sunshine, you'll find what you're looking for in the Willamette Valley.
There are many rivers and streams in the area to choose from, with rainbow, cutthroat and brook trout, as well as steelhead and salmon in season, and ponds and lakes with trout, bass, catfish and bluegill for the catching.
Along with the normal planting of legal keeper-sized fish (8-inch minimum), the Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife plants a few large brood fish used to collect eggs for spawning more trout at hatcheries at several lakes including Waverly and Timber-Linn to give the public a shot at landing "the big one."
To check the stocking schedule for your area, go to the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife for a searchable list of where and when fish will be planted.
The ODFW website provides a breakdown of how-to and where to go at its Seasonal Opportunities page. Find out what species are available for each time of year and how and where to catch them.
The latest information about fishing in the Willamette Zone can also be found on their website.
Fly Fishing
If you are planning a fly fishing trip and need some gear, or just a few ideas about where to go and what fly to use, stop in at Two Rivers Fly Shop in historic downtown Albany, 204 1st Ave. SW. The staff there are knowledgeable and ready to help. Contact the shop at 541-967-9800 or trfs@live.com.
Fishing License
Fishing licenses are required for any person 14 years of age or older and can be purchased at most sporting goods stores in the area or find licensing information on the ODFW website.
Free Fishing Days
On four weekends during the year, the Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife offers Free Fishing Days. On those days you don't need a license, tag or endorsement to fish, crab or clam anywhere in Oregon.
Fishing report
For a weekly fishing report, visit the ODFW Fishing page. For more information, go to the Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife site, or call 541-757-4186.
Other Links
Here is another site that features fishing in Albany:
