Smallmouth Bass

Happy Valley, Oregon, offers some surprisingly good smallmouth bass fishing within easy reach of the Portland metro area. While not as famous as the John Day River, the Clackamas River is a reliable option. Focus your efforts on the lower Clackamas, below Oregon City, where the river widens and offers ideal smallmouth habitat: rocky bottoms, submerged structure, and plenty of riffles and pools. Late spring through early fall is prime time, as the water warms and the smallies become more active. Summer evenings can be particularly productive. Be aware that the Clackamas can be subject to swift currents, so wading anglers should exercise caution. A good access point is Barton Park, which offers boat ramps and ample shoreline access. Local tip: Smallmouth in the Clackamas tend to be opportunistic feeders, so try a variety of lures, including crankbaits, spinners, and jigs, until you find what they're hitting. Don't overlook crayfish imitations, as these are a staple of their diet.