Oregon Opens Rivers and Streams to Spearfishing for Bass and Walleye in 2026

If you've been paying attention to freshwater spearfishing news, Oregon just made a major move. Starting January 1, 2026, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife officially expanded spearfishing access for bass and walleye in rivers and streams across the state. This is big news for divers who have been waiting for more freshwater opportunities out West.

Why Oregon Expanded Spearfishing Access

The Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission adopted this change at their September 2025 meeting, and it went into effect as part of the 2026-27 Sport Fishing Regulations. The reasoning behind the expansion is twofold.

First, public demand. Oregon divers have been requesting expanded spearfishing opportunities for years. Spearfishing has grown in popularity as a sustainable, selective harvest method, and the community made its voice heard through public comment periods and direct advocacy.

Second, conservation. Bass and walleye are non-native species in most Oregon waterways. They compete with and prey on native fish like salmon, steelhead, and trout. By opening rivers and streams to spearfishing for these species, ODFW is giving divers a tool to help manage invasive populations while doing what they love. It's a rare situation where harvesting more fish is actually the right thing to do for the ecosystem.

What the New Oregon Spearfishing Regulations Allow

Here is what you need to know about the 2026 rules. Smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, and walleye are all fair game for spearfishing in Oregon rivers and streams. The season is year-round with no specified closure, effective January 1. In most waters where spearfishing is allowed, there are no bag limits and no size limits for bass and walleye. That means you can harvest as many as you can find.

The regulation applies to rivers and streams that are open for bass and walleye harvest with no limits. This covers a significant portion of the state, particularly in central and eastern Oregon, the Willamette Valley, and southern Oregon river systems. However, you cannot spearfish for any freshwater game fish in Oregon, including salmon, steelhead, trout, or sturgeon. If you are in the water with a spear, target only bass and walleye.

Best Oregon Rivers for Freshwater Spearfishing

Oregon has some incredible river systems with healthy populations of bass and walleye. The John Day River is one of the longest undammed rivers in the lower 48 and is loaded with smallmouth bass. The clear water and rocky structure make it ideal for spearfishing in the summer months. The Willamette River and its many tributaries hold good numbers of both smallmouth and largemouth bass, with plentiful access points throughout the valley.

The Columbia River system is home to significant walleye populations, especially in the pools behind the dams. The Columbia and its tributaries offer some of the best walleye opportunities in the Pacific Northwest. The Umpqua River, both North and South forks, hold smallmouth bass in their warmer sections with beautiful country and solid visibility in the right conditions. The lower Deschutes River also holds smallmouth bass that are legitimate spearfishing targets under the new rules.

Gear Tips for River Spearfishing in Oregon

River spearfishing is a different game than ocean diving. A compact 75-90cm speargun or a polespear is ideal for river work. You do not need the range you would use offshore. Shots are typically close in rivers, and a shorter setup is easier to maneuver around rocks and structure.

Oregon rivers are cold. Even in summer, most rivers run 50-65 degrees Fahrenheit. A 5mm wetsuit minimum is recommended, and in spring or fall you might want a 7mm or a hooded vest underneath. A low-volume mask reduces drag and makes equalizing easier if you are diving into pools. Many river divers prefer a simple mask-and-snorkel setup without full scuba gear. Freshwater is less buoyant than saltwater, so you will need less weight than you are used to. Start light and adjust.

Always bring a float with a dive flag. It is always smart to let boaters and other anglers know you are in the water. A bright-colored float also helps your dive buddy track your position in a river current.

Safety Considerations for River Spearfishing

River spearfishing comes with unique hazards that ocean divers might not expect. Current is the big one. Rivers move, and even calm-looking stretches can have strong undercurrents near bends, rapids, and dam structures. Always scout the section you plan to dive before getting in, and never dive alone.

Freshwater visibility is highly variable. One rain event upstream can turn a clear river to zero visibility overnight. Check conditions before you drive out, and have a backup spot in mind. Below the surface, watch for submerged logs, fishing line, old fencing, and sharp rocks. Move carefully and always have a knife accessible.

Hypothermia is a real risk in Oregon rivers. Know your limits, take breaks, and get out of the water before you start shivering. And this should go without saying, but never dive alone. River environments change fast, and having a dive buddy can save your life. If you are not already familiar with freediving safety protocols, check out the free course at freedivingsafety.com.

Why This Matters for the Spearfishing Community

Oregon's decision to expand freshwater spearfishing is part of a larger trend. Michigan made headlines with the biggest freshwater spearfishing expansion in North American history, opening the Great Lakes to spearfishing for walleye, pike, and lake trout. Now Oregon is adding to the momentum. Every time a state opens new waters to spearfishing, it validates what our community has known for decades. Spearfishing is a sustainable, ethical, and effective way to harvest fish.

If you are thinking about making the trip to Oregon this summer, start planning now. The best conditions for river spearfishing are typically July through September when water levels drop, visibility improves, and bass are actively feeding in the shallows.

Want to sharpen your skills before you hit the river? Check out the SpearFactor Master Class at spearfactor.com for comprehensive training that covers everything from breath-hold techniques to shot placement. And do not forget to download the free Emergency Procedures checklist. It is essential gear for any dive, saltwater or freshwater.