NW Steelheader volunteers assisting with winter trout fry release, part of the Fish Eggs to Fry Program that brings salmon or trout eggs into 700+ Oregon classrooms for students to observe and raise while learning about one of our state’s most significant keystone species. Learn more about this amazing classroom program on our website. A record 201 classrooms participated in fall salmon rearing in 2025 in the greater Portland-Metro region!
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This February, the Sandy and Tualatin Valley chapters each hosted Steelhead 101 classes, welcoming more than 50 new anglers into our community. These events were memorable and rewarding for both participants and the dedicated volunteers who made them possible. READ ON
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Once you’ve finished the Steelhead 101 clinic, it’s time to put those skills to work! Join us for our March Fish-Along on the coast. This is our favorite way to bridge the gap between learning and catching, as seasoned members and 101 graduates team up for a weekend of fishing. We’ll be staying at the Tillamook 4-H dorms at the fairgrounds(optional), making it easy to hit the river early and share tips over dinner. It’s a fun, social environment and the best way to gain real-world experience on the water.
REGISTER NOW |
Commonwealth Lake, Cedar Hills Neighborhood Saturday, March 14, 2026
The Cedar Hills Recreation Center has invited the Northwest Steelheaders to once again help make their Commonwealth Lake Free Family Fishing Event a success.
Organizers are hoping to rally volunteers for three one-hour fishing sessions (9:00–10:00 AM, 10:30–11:30 AM, and 12:30–1:30 PM). This is a wonderful opportunity to introduce kids and families to fishing in a supportive, hands-on environment.
If you’re interested in volunteering and representing the Northwest Steelheaders at this community event, please email Cohner Davis. |
NEW EVENT: Plunking Clinic with Brian West and Tualatin Valley Chapter March 28th Sauvie Island (Reeder Beach Area)
During this workshop you'll learn a technique referred to as ‘plunking’, a versatile fishing technique that can be used to fish for steelhead and other salmonids in many Oregon rivers. This is a great, hands-on opportunity to learn the specific rigs, gear, and river-reading skills needed to successfully plunk for steelhead. Whether you're new to the bank or just want to refine your setup, Brian's expertise is not to be missed.
Get out there and fish for Spring Chinook! SAVE THE DATE REGISTRATION OPENS SOON ON VEM.MYODFW.COM |
We are excited to announce the return of Family Fish Camp in 2026, hosted at Camp Angelos May 1st through 3rd.
What is Family Fish Camp(FFC)? Hosted by the Association of Northwest Steelheaders (ANWS), FFC includes an overnight outdoors camp experience designed to share lifelong skills and create positive experiences for outdoor recreation, remove barriers to accessing the outdoors, promote a diverse community in the outdoors and further a collective goal of conservation and stewardship resulting in a greater interest in protecting the environment, wildlife, and their habitat.
NW Steelheaders volunteers share the fundamentals of fishing so that families can go forth and explore the Pacific Northwest confidently and responsibly. This event needs volunteers to ensure success and enjoyment for all. If you are interested in volunteering, please fill out the registration form below.
SIGN UP |
Registration is now open for the June Springer Derby!
Join us on Saturday, June 20th for a full day of fishing on the Willamette River, Multnomah Channel, and—if open—the Columbia River, with prizes awarded for both the winning team and the biggest fish. All members are welcome (valid fishing license required), with a $40 entry fee and free participation for volunteer boat captains. Fishing runs from daylight to 2:00 p.m., followed by an awards gathering at Fultano's Pizza. Don’t miss this fun day on the water—be sure to register and secure your spot!
REGISTER NOW |
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Winter Steelhead Egg Collection @ Letz Creek Hatchery February-March Lorane, Oregon To get on the volunteer email list, contact
Emerald Empire Chapter President Rod Fosback. Sandy River Clean Up April 18th Meet at Glen Otto Park
1102 E Historic Columbia River Hwy, Troutdale, OR 97060 Contact Rob Bitney, Sandy River Chapter President Rob Bitney Columbia Chapter Garage Sale SAVE THE DATE: April 25 Sportsman's Warehouse 11505 NE Fourth Plain Blvd, Vancouver, WA 98662
All are welcome to attend. To reserve a table for sales, contact Columbia Chapter President Don Hyde
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Want to get more involved in the Steelheaders?
Are you looking to learn more about local fisheries? ATTEND A CHAPTER MEETING |
MID-VALLEY CHAPTER
First Wednesday at 7:00pm @ The Santiam Place, 139 N Main, Lebanon, OR 97355 SANDY RIVER CHAPTER
First Thursday September through June 7:00pm @ Glenn Otto Park, 1102 E Historic Columbia River Hwy, Troutdale, OR 97060
EMERALD EMPIRE CHAPTER First Thursday September though June 6:30pm@Sizzlers Steakhouse 1010 Postal Way, Springfield, OR 97477
COLUMBIA RIVER CHAPTER Second Tuesday of each month 6:30pm @ Prairie Tavern 14925 NE Caples Road Brush Prairie, WA 98606
TUALATIN VALLEY CHAPTER Second Tuesday 7:00pm @ Hillsboro Elks Lodge #1862, 7553 NE Quatama St, Hillsboro, OR 97124
SALEM CHAPTER Third Tuesday 7:00pm @ Keizer City Hall, 930 Chemawa Rd N, Keizer, OR 97303
CLACKAMAS RIVER CHAPTER Fourth Tuesday - September through May 7:00pm @ Round Table Pizza,16550 SE McLoughlin Blvd, Milwaukie, OR 97267 |
Want your catch featured in the next newsletter?
Send your pictures with species, waterbody, and angler name details to office@anws.org. |
SANDY RIVER SLAM UPDATE: Brayden Craig - Barlow HS with a great fish! 31" Buck - and takes the lead in the Slam! Fish was caught in Stage 1( Between Dodge and Oxbow) Learn more about this fun fishing derby for high schoolers here.
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Steelhead 101 student, and brand new NW Steelheaders member, Milo hooked this Steelhead during the field day on the Wilson River |
Emerald Empire chapter member Carlos Villagran and friend on the Nestucca River. Way to go Carlos!
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Sandy River Chapter Treasurer and Association Board Secretary Brad Garrett, and Kaj Christensen with a quick picture of a Sandy River chromer before a safe release.
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A friend of Stephen Widdecomb, Sandy River Chapter, caught this hog while out fishing the Sandy. |
ARE YOU A FRED MEYER'S SHOPPER?
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Now you can do your holiday shopping and support the NW Steelheaders all at once.
Link your rewards card to the Northwest Steelheaders. Every time you shop, Freddy's will donate to the Steelheaders. |
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Association of Northwest Steelheaders P.O. Box 55400 Portland, OR 97238 United States |
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