OREGON CITY GUIDED TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Kayak the Upper Clackamas: Learn to Fish beneath Willamette Falls
A guided kayak-fishing excursion out of Oregon City that pairs hands-on instruction in rigging, safety, and river hydrology with scenic runs on the Willamette — ideal for anglers learning to fish from a kayak.
Kayak the Upper Clackamas: Learn to Fish beneath Willamette Falls.
Paddling out of Oregon City, this guided outing threads the Willamette River beneath the shadow of Willamette Falls. The trip blends instruction — basic kayak nomenclature, river hydrology, rigging and fishing techniques — with drifting and trolling through likely fishing spots while keeping an eye out for herons, geese and osprey.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Willamette Falls and River Wildlife
Scenic stretches of the Willamette and the approach to Willamette Falls set the backdrop; expect frequent sightings of river birds such as herons, geese and osprey as you travel and fish.
Hands-on Kayak Fishing Instruction
The operator teaches the fundamentals — kayak nomenclature, basic rigging and common kayak-fishing techniques — alongside essential safety information so anglers build confidence on the water.
Drift, Troll and Learn the Best Holes
Paddlers drift and troll sections of the Willamette from the Oregon City shop, learning river secrets and where to target species such as salmon, steelhead, shad and smallmouth bass depending on season and interest.
What the day feels like
What this trip feels like
The outing moves at a deliberate teaching pace: launch, learn basic boat handling and nomenclature, then spend time drifting and trolling while instructors demonstrate rigging and fishing techniques. Interspersed with instruction are stretches of scenic paddling past river features and birdlife, all aimed at getting anglers confident in kayak-based methods.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who gets the most out of this trip — and who should check first.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The excursion runs for up to 3 hours on the water.
Bring water, sunscreen and clothing that can get wet; add extra warm layers or a change of clothes depending on the weather.
Meet at the Moore Creek Boat Ramp near Oregon City for launch and check-in with the operator.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the trip?
The guided kayak-fishing excursion runs for up to 3 hours.
Where do we meet?
Meeting and launch take place at the Moore Creek Boat Ramp.
What should I bring?
Bring water, sunscreen and clothing that can get wet; plan for additional warm layers or a change of clothing based on weather.
What will I learn on the trip?
Instruction covers basic kayak nomenclature, river hydrology, common kayak-fishing techniques, rigging and essential safety information.
What species might we fish for?
Depending on season and interest, instruction and fishing may target salmon, steelhead, shad and smallmouth bass.