Willamette River Watertrail

The Willamette River Watertrail of Oregon, almost 200 river miles of class 1 & 2 waters, is a paddle destination most Oregonians have never tried nor even heard of. This link takes you to the guide and a video of the water trail. I’ve run several sections of the river with a jet sled and drift boat, but never in a kayak or canoe.

Early season trout fishing near Eugene, during the March Brown hatch is phenomenal. Some of the riffles hold Native Rainbow trout (AKA Red sides) that go well over 20 inches, and then drop down a little to slacker waters and catch Mountain Whitefish in the same sizes. Summer run Steelhead on their way to the McKenzie River and runs of Salmon are targeted by anglers as well. As the river runs through the valley Smallmouth Bass and Sturgeon are available. Make sure to scroll down to see the entire page.
Photo is of a McKenzie River Red Side Rainbow Trout (not my catch).

At the top of the page you’ll see “Explore the River” “Plan your Trip” “Itinerary Inspiration” “About the Water Trail” These are active links. The itinerary page is all about short runs others have completed. On the Itinerary page the heading of the trips I.E. “Portland Boathouse to Cathedral Park” are live links to take you to more information. Side note: I've run the “Middle Fork, Dexter Launch to Springfield’s Clearwater Boat Ramp” many times to target Spring Chinook, Trout and Steelhead.
http://willamettewatertrail.org/

After checking out the Willamette River Trail visit the following link to watch some videos of waterfall kayaking and other Northwest adventures and projects at the PBD Oregon Field Guide page:
http://watch.opb.org/program/oregon-field-guide/

Both of these links are good ones to save in your archives just in case you get the opportunity to visit the Willamette River.

I've ran from Pengra boat launch all the way to Alton Baker park. There are a few hazards to watch for and prepare to avoid, and definitely not a Mirage Drive run.

Another strip I've done a couple of times and want to do more of is the Coast Fork of the Willamette that runs from Cottage Grove to Springfield. I've only done it for a pleasure paddle a couple of times, but in 2012 they re-introduced Chinook in the river and are expected to return this year! I haven't heard any reports, but anxious to try this more.
http://www.dfw.state.or.us/news/2012/February/022412.asp

Hit me up if someone wants company and/or help doing a shuttle!