Willamette River Salmon Fishing Charter
Private Trip
River Fishing
Guided salmon fishing with Captain Ej Snyder on Willamette RiverFull and half day charters available May through JulyMaximum four guests per trip with expert instruction provided
Captain Ej Snyder knows the Willamette River like the back of his hand, and he's ready to put you on some of the best salmon fishing Portland has to offer. From May through July, when the Chinook are running strong, you'll have your pick of full-day adventures (up to 8 hours for $560 for two) or half-day trips (4 hours for $280 for two). With a maximum of four guests per charter, you're getting personalized attention that bigger operations just can't match. Whether you're a seasoned angler or picking up a rod for the first time, Captain Ej's hands-on instruction and deep local knowledge will have you fishing like a pro by the end of the day.
Your day starts early at Fred's Marina with a 6:00 AM departure – prime time when the salmon are most active and the river traffic is light. Captain Ej runs a tight ship with all the safety gear you need, plus he'll walk you through everything from reading the water to setting your drag properly. The Willamette offers some unique fishing opportunities right in Portland's backyard, with deep pools, current breaks, and structure that hold fish throughout the season. You'll be working productive stretches where the salmon stage before heading upstream, and Captain Ej knows exactly where to position the boat based on water levels, weather conditions, and recent fish movement. The intimate group size means everyone gets plenty of rod time and individual coaching – no crowded boat decks or fighting for the captain's attention here.
Captain Ej specializes in proven salmon techniques that work consistently on the Willamette system. You'll likely be pulling plugs, running spinners, or drifting bait depending on conditions and what the fish are responding to that day. He'll set you up with quality gear that can handle these powerful fish – medium-heavy rods with smooth drags and line heavy enough to turn a hot Chinook away from structure. The boat is rigged with downriggers and all the terminal tackle you need, from fresh herring and prawns to the specific lures that produce on this river. Captain Ej takes the guesswork out of presentation, adjusting your setup based on water clarity, current speed, and fish behavior. He's also big on teaching proper fish handling techniques, especially important when you're targeting wild salmon that need to be released quickly and safely.
Chinook salmon are the undisputed kings of the Pacific Northwest, and the Willamette River runs produce some seriously impressive fish. These powerful salmon can range from 15 to 40+ pounds, with the occasional monster pushing even bigger numbers. May through July is peak season when mature Chinook are moving through the system, staging in deeper holes and ambush points before continuing their upstream journey. What makes targeting Chinook so exciting is their incredible strength and unpredictable behavior – one minute you're fighting a bulldogging fish that wants to stay deep, the next it's cartwheeling across the surface in spectacular jumps. These fish have spent years in the ocean building muscle and attitude, and they don't give up easy. The Willamette's Chinook are known for their broad shoulders and chrome-bright sides when fresh from the ocean. ODFW regulations allow two fish per person per day, and Captain Ej stays current on all the rules to ensure you're fishing legally and ethically. The combination of technical fishing and raw power makes every hookup a heart-pounding experience that'll have you planning your next trip before this one's over.
Captain Ej's salmon charters fill up fast during peak season, and for good reason – his local expertise and commitment to putting clients on fish has built a solid reputation among Portland anglers. At $140 per person for a half-day or $280 for a full day, you're getting incredible value for guided salmon fishing in one of Oregon's premier fisheries. The personalized instruction alone is worth the price of admission, especially if you want to come back and fish these waters on your own. Plus, with only two guests per trip, you're guaranteed the individual attention that makes the difference between a good day and a great day on the water. The salmon won't wait around – they're only here for a limited window each year. Book your dates now and get ready to experience some of the best salmon fishing the Pacific Northwest has to offer, right in Portland's backyard with a captain who knows how to make it happen.
Captain Ej takes you salmon fishing aboard his 2020 Alumaweld Blackhawk 180, a sturdy 18-foot aluminum fishing boat that's perfectly suited for navigating the Willamette River's currents and eddies. Twin 90 HP Yamaha engines deliver reliable power to reach prime salmon holding water quickly, while the boat's stable design keeps you comfortable during long fights with Chinook salmon. The onboard fish finder helps locate schools moving through deeper pools, and GPS navigation ensures efficient travel between productive spots. An icebox keeps your catch fresh and drinks cold during those warm summer days on the water. Built to handle up to 5 anglers comfortably, this fishing platform offers plenty of room to land and net salmon without crowding. The low-profile design makes it easy to cast and maneuver your gear while drifting through salmon runs or anchoring in holding water.
Portland, Oregon