If you love fishing in Portland, living in the metro area means you have no excuse not to get out and cast a line. With countless fishing destinations within an hour’s drive, newcomers moving to Portland will find an abundance of opportunities to reel in some of the best fish the Pacific Northwest has to offer. Before heading out on your angling adventure, be sure to review the Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations, available through the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, to ensure you’re compliant with local laws and seasons.
The Pacific Northwest is home to some of the most sought-after fish in the world—salmon and halibut—found along the 360+ mile Oregon coastline. In addition, fishing in Portland provides opportunities to catch steelhead, sturgeon, kokanee, trout, and panfish in the region’s rivers, lakes, and streams. Shellfish such as clams and crabs also add to Oregon’s status as a true seafood haven. Whether you’re an experienced angler or a beginner, newcomers to Portland will quickly find that the city is a dream destination for fishing enthusiasts.
Already baiting your hook? Here are some of the top fishing spots near Portland. Visit Oregon State Parks for more details.
Top Fishing Spots Near Portland
- Haldeman Pond – Sauvie Island
Target species: Trout, crappie, bass, catfish - Lewis & Clark State Park
1 Jordan Road, Troutdale, OR 97060
Target species: Steelhead, salmon - Milo McIver Park
24101 South Entrance Road, Estacada, OR 97023
Target species: Steelhead, Chinook, coho, fin-clipped trout - Oxbow Park
3010 SE Oxbow Parkway, Gresham, OR 97080
Target species: Steelhead, salmon - Rooster Rock Slough Fishing
Exit 25 & Highway 84, Corbett, OR 97019
Target species: Brown bullhead, white crappie, black crappie, largemouth bass, yellow perch - Smith and Bybee Lakes
5300 N Marine Drive, Portland, OR 97217
Target species: Crappie, bullhead, largemouth bass, bluegill, yellow perch - Willamette Park
1100 12th St., West Linn, OR 97068
Target species: Crappie, bass, perch - Benson Lake
Exit 28 & Highway 84
Target species: Trout, largemouth bass, crappie, sunfish, bullhead
Why Newcomers Moving to Portland Love Fishing Here
For those moving to Portland, the city’s fishing scene is a true gem. Whether you prefer fly fishing in pristine rivers, casting for bass in hidden lakes, or taking on the challenge of reeling in salmon from the Columbia River, there’s something for every angler. The close proximity of these fishing spots to the city means that even after a long workday, a relaxing fishing trip is just a short drive away. Portland’s outdoor culture and appreciation for sustainability make it a haven for those looking to experience the best fishing in the Pacific Northwest.
So grab your fishing rod, get your bait ready, and discover the incredible fishing in Portland—one of the many reasons why this city is a dream destination for newcomers and longtime residents alike.
Request your free Portland Relocation Guide here
