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Ready for a fantastic fishing experience in Portland, OR? Perfect for all skill levels—book your charter today!

Fishing License

Oregon Fishing License

14 year old Josh with his first ever steelhead! He tied on his own leader, picked out his own bead and sent it right into this 34" hens mouth!


First Steelhead Success for 14-Year-Old Josh

After a super fun and challenging Winter Steelhead season, I am excited to turn the page to Spring Chinook after I get back from Alaska in early May!


Spring Chinook Season Starts Strong in May

I have an open boat August 22,23 and a seat or  2 left to fill some other days in Astoria. Come fish and you can be as happy as Cole with his Salmon!
Call, text or DM me.
971-209-5308


Seats Open in Astoria—Catch Salmon Like Cole!

Winter Steelhead fishing season is in full swing! I have a few days left in March before we switch over to Springer fishing. Projections for springers are looking better than last year which was fantastic!

Coho salmon, 27 inches, fishing in Aumsville

Columbia River Fishing Report

Oregon Coast Fishing Report

Read expert Fishing articles, travel insights, and local stories from Matt Halseth Guide Service in Portland, OR. Stay informed and inspired for your next adventure.

Portland, OR Fishing Articles & Insights | Matt Halseth Guide Service

Are you ready to experience the ultimate fishing adventure along the breathtaking Oregon Coast and the picturesque Columbia and Willamette Valley rivers? Look no further than Matt Halseth Guide Service, where your journey into the heart of Oregon’s premier fishing spots is led by none other than the seasoned and skilled angler, Matt Halseth. With a deep passion for fishing and a commitment to delivering unparalleled fishing experiences, Matt ensures that each trip is not just a fishing expedition but a memorable adventure that will have you coming back for more. As you join Matt on this remarkable adventure, you’ll step aboard one of his meticulously maintained Willie or Clackacraft boats, each equipped with the latest and most advanced angling gear available. These top-of-the-line boats are designed for comfort and efficiency, allowing you to reach the best fishing spots quickly and comfortably. Whether you’re an experienced angler or a novice excited to learn the ropes, Matt’s boats are fitted with state-of-the-art equipment, including premium G Loomis rods and Shimano reels, ensuring you have the best tools at your disposal for an exceptional fishing experience. Once aboard, you will find yourself in the midst of a truly exciting fishing experience. Matt Halseth, with his extensive knowledge and over 20 years of guiding experience, is dedicated to helping you catch trophy Salmon and Steelhead. He brings a wealth of expertise and a range of techniques to the table, from drift fishing and spinner fishing to fly fishing and trolling. Matt’s personalized approach means that he takes the time to teach you various methods and strategies tailored to the conditions of the day and your personal fishing goals, enhancing your chances of success on the water. We take care of all your fishing needs, so you can focus on enjoying the experience. All you need to bring is your valid fishing license, weather-appropriate clothing, and your favorite snacks and beverages to keep you refreshed and energized. Matt will handle the rest, from providing top-quality gear to selecting the best fishing spots and techniques for a successful day on the water. So, what are you waiting for? Dive into the stunning natural beauty of Oregon’s waterways and challenge yourself to catch some of the finest fish in the Pacific Northwest with Matt Halseth Guide Service.&nbsp;Book your trip today and get ready for a day full of excitement, learning, and the joy of fishing!

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Coho salmon caught in Aumsville by fishing

Chinook salmon caught in Aumsville during fishing

4 big fish caught during fishing in Oregon

Three pink salmon being caught while fishing in OR

Two great barracuda and rainbow trout caught in Aumsville

5 big fish caught by 3 people while fishing in OR

14 year old Josh with his first ever steelhead! He tied on his own leader, picked out his own bead and sent it right into this 34" hens mouth!

After a super fun and challenging Winter Steelhead season, I am excited to turn the page to Spring Chinook after I get back from Alaska in early May!

I have an open boat August 22,23 and a seat or  2 left to fill some other days in Astoria. Come fish and you can be as happy as Cole with his Salmon!


Premier Fishing Guide in Portland, Oregon

Stop dreaming of the perfect catch and start living the adventure of a lifetime with Matt Halseth Guide Service in beautiful Northern Minnesota. Secure your spot today to feel the adrenaline of a screaming reel and create legendary memories on the water that will last forever!

Matt Halseth Guide Service, led by Captain Matt Halseth, is your premier choice for unforgettable fishing adventures in the Pacific Northwest. As one of the top-rated Oregon fishing guides, Captain Matt brings extensive local knowledge and a passion for the area's world-class waters. Specializing in salmon and steelhead trout, he offers expert-guided trips tailored to both novice and experienced anglers. Whether you’re looking for a fishing charter in Portland, Oregon, or targeting the famed salmon runs of the Columbia and Willamette or Coastal Rivers, Matt Halseth Guide Service guarantees a exciting and productive day on the water. With years of experience as a Portland, Oregon salmon fishing guide, Captain Matt ensures clients have the best chance at landing prized fish. His dedication to providing high-quality fishing experiences, paired with the breathtaking scenery of Portland’s waterways, makes every trip unforgettable. If you're looking for a top-tier fishing charter in Portland, Oregon, to experience the excitement of salmon fishing or pursue trophy steelhead trout, Matt Halseth Guide Service is the perfect choice for your next fishing adventure. Matt Halseth Guide Service will make your fishing the best fishing experience we can provide. We target Chinook Salmon, Coho Salmon, Winter and Summer Steelhead. See the maps below for various guest meeting locations and to plan your fishing trip!

Matt Halseth Guide Service

Matt Halseth Guide Service is the premiere guiding service for the Oregon Coast and Willamette Valley  - Book your fishing trip today.

Growing up with the river as his backyard, Captain Matt Halseth has turned a lifelong obsession with Oregon’s waterways into a premier guiding career. Based in the heart of the Willamette Valley, Matt has spent years decoding the complex migrations of local salmon and steelhead. His approach to guiding is rooted in a deep respect for the ecosystem and a genuine desire to share the "river life" with others. Rather than just focusing on the catch, Matt prioritizes the narrative of the trip—teaching guests how to read the water, understand fish behavior, and master the techniques that lead to a successful day on the river. What truly sets Matt apart is his ability to connect with anglers of all skill levels. Whether he is helping a novice cast their first line or swapping stories with a seasoned pro, his approachable and professional demeanor creates a relaxed atmosphere on deck. He understands that a day on the water is an investment of time and trust, which is why he remains a student of the local rivers, constantly scouting conditions to ensure his guests are always in the best position to hook into a trophy. His reputation as one of Oregon’s top fishing guides is built on this foundation of transparency, patience, and local expertise. Beyond his technical knowledge, Matt is known for his commitment to a safe and educational experience. Every trip with Matt Halseth Guide Service is an opportunity to learn the nuances of the Pacific Northwest's most iconic fisheries. He takes pride in providing a high-end service that feels like fishing with an old friend who happens to know every hidden hole and current break in the valley. By focusing on the details—from the quality of the gear to the timing of the run—Matt ensures that when you step off his boat, you leave with more than just a limit; you leave with a deeper appreciation for Oregon’s incredible natural resources. The Fleet: Specialized Boats for Every RiverTo provide the ultimate fishing experience, Matt operates a diverse fleet of four specialized vessels, each meticulously maintained and chosen for specific river conditions. For larger groups of up to six, the 25' RiverWild Pro-Steelheader offers a spacious, stable platform powered by a 250hp Yamaha, perfect for covering vast stretches of water in comfort. When precision is required in swifter currents, Matt turns to his 21' Willie Boats Fuzion jet boat, a nimble craft ideal for four-person teams chasing salmon. For those seeking the quiet rhythm of the river, the 18' Clackacraft Clackamax drift boat provides a stealthy approach for up to three anglers, while the 2025 RecreTec STLHD Raft opens the door to "off-the-beaten-path" whitewater adventures in remote, secluded canyons. No matter which vessel you board, you are equipped with the best tools in the industry to ensure a safe and successful journey.

Enjoy A Legendary Escapade With No Other Than The Best

Target trophy Chinook salmon on Oregon's premier rivers with expert trolling techniques. Book now.

River Salmon

World-Class Salmon Fishing on Oregon Rivers

Target Chinook and Coho salmon plus bottom fish on Oregon's open ocean. Book your charter today.

Ocean Hooks

Oregon Coast Fishing: Premium Offshore Charters

Book an 8-hour premium steelhead fishing trip on Oregon's renowned rivers. Expert guide, world-class waters, unforgettable experience.

River Rush

Expert-Guided Steelhead Fishing in Oregon Rivers

Experience world-class river fishing at Astoria's Buoy 10. Catch migrating Chinook and Coho salmon with expert guides. Book now!

Buoy Bonanza

Astoria's Legendary Buoy 10 Salmon Fishing

Target trophy Chinook and Coho salmon on inshore Oregon Coast waters. Book your fall fishing trip.

Coast Catch

Oregon Coast Salmon Fishing: Fall Tidewater Trips

Expert-guided raft fishing for salmon, steelhead and trout on Oregon's premier rivers. Book now.

Raft Catch

Premier Salmon & Steelhead Rafting in Oregon

Fish Oregon's top rivers for salmon and steelhead with expert guides. Book your river adventure today.

Stream Snag

Top-Rated Oregon Salmon Fishing with Matt Halseth

Team Shimano G Loomis Power ProClackacraft Boats

Willie BoatsLured ProOregon Lure

Dinger Jigs Factory TeamOregon Rod Reel and Tackle Pro

Guided Fishing Trips Willamette Valley, Oregon Coast

High Demand Winter & Spring Fishing Charters

Deposit: A 20% deposit is required for all online bookingsBalance is due in cash or credit card on the day of the trip.

Tips: Tips are greatly appreciated for a job well done

Guest Cancellation: &nbsp;In the event that you need to request a cancellation, you must do so&nbsp;14 days before your charter date in order to receive a refund for your deposit.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Guide Cancellation: In the rare event that your guide must cancel due to inclement weather, equipment issues or health, you will have the option to reschedule for a future date or cancel and receive your deposit back in full.

Things To Remember

Air Fee

Bait Fee

Mate's Fee

Nitrox Fee

Service Fee

Trimix Fee

Matt Halseth Guide Service offers an incredible 8-hour, full-day winter steelhead fishing experience on Oregon’s renowned Siletz, Umpqua, Santiam and Nestucca Rivers. These scenic rivers, celebrated for their thriving steelhead populations during winter, provide prime locations for steelhead fishing along Oregon’s beautiful coastline. With extensive experience as an Oregon fishing guide, Matt Halseth, based near Portland, is committed to ensuring a rewarding and unforgettable fishing trip. Don’t miss the opportunity to book your adventure with Matt Halseth Guide Service!

Steelhead Trout

Clackamax

8 hours

Steelhead River Fishing Oregon

Divemaster Fee

State Taxes

For an unforgettable Oregon fishing adventure, Matt Halseth Guide Service is the ultimate choice. Specializing in trolling and back trolling trips for Chinook salmon on the Willamette and Columbia Rivers, Matt Halseth provides a customized experience designed for every skill level. Whether you're interested in salmon fishing in Oregon, targeting steelhead, or exploring top Oregon fishing guides, this service offers more than just a day on the water. With expertise and a passion for fishing, Matt and his team ensure a fun, successful trip where every angler has the chance to reel in!

Chinook Salmon

Riverwild

Willamette and Columbia River Salmon Fishing

Get ready for an exciting fishing trip on Oregon's iconic rivers, including the Willamette, North and South Santiam, McKenzie, and Nestucca. Depending on water conditions, we’ll choose between the agility of a Jet Boat or the classic Driftboat to enhance your fishing experience. We’ll use techniques like bobber dogging, back trolling, and back-bouncing bait to target spring Chinook, Fall Chinook, Summer and Winter Steelhead. As always, all bait, tackle, and safety equipment are provided!

Cutthroat Trout

Rainbow Trout

Willie Fuzion

Small River Fishing for Salmon and Steelhead

Come fish the iconic Buoy 10 Fishery and experience an incredible sight! As over 1 million Chinook and Coho Salmon surge through the mouth of the Columbia River on their journey upriver, we position ourselves right in the heart of the action. Get ready for an exciting trip as we skillfully catch these impressive fish, taking in the energy of one of nature's most remarkable migrations. Don't miss your chance to be part of this unforgettable experience at the legendary Buoy 10 Fishery!

Coho Salmon

Astoria Bouy 10 Salmon Fishing

Chinook and Coho fishing on the beautiful Oregon Coast! Immerse yourself in the scenic wonders as we set out on an exciting fishing trip utilizing a variety of techniques such as trolling and bobber fishing Chinook and Coho Salmon in Tidewater. Get ready for exciting battles, stunning coastal views, and the opportunity to reel in some impressive catches. Join us for a fishing experience that combines the beauty of the Oregon Coast with the excitement of pursuing these prized salmon species.

Oregon Coast Fall Chinook and Coho

Enjoy a whitewater fishing trip in our 2025 RecreTec 14' Raft for Salmon, Steelhead and Trout on the upper North Santiam River, Nestucca and Siletz rivers.

2025 Recretec STLHD

1 day 

Raft Fishing Salmon and Steelhead

Bait's fee

Mate's fee

Start your day with an exciting fishing trip targeting the mighty Kings and Coho Salmon, enjoying the experience of Oregon’s open ocean. As the morning unfolds, we’ll transition to the productive bottom fishing grounds, where a variety of catches await, ensuring a plentiful haul. This action-packed trip combines the best of both fishing worlds, creating lasting memories on Oregon’s shimmering waters. Perfect for anyone looking for premier salmon fishing in Oregon.