Water Recreation in Tualatin Valley
Paddling, Fishing and More Await in Our Waterways
Oregon’s Tualatin Valley is rich in outdoor recreation, and water sports–especially kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding and fishing–are popular pastimes throughout Oregon.
Tualatin River National Water Trail
The Tualatin River, less than a 30-minute drive from downtown Portland, provides cool and calming recreational opportunities, and is one of the best ways to explore the valley. Best of all, no advance planning is necessary for a boat trip, as rentals are available on a drop-in, first-come, first-serve basis at two different locations.
During summer months, Alder Creek Kayak and Canoe’s Tualatin rental location at Brown’s Ferry Park rents canoes and single and tandem recreational kayaks. The Tualatin Riverkeepers rent canoes and kayaks at Tigard’s Cook Park boat launch on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays (on a first come, first served basis) through September. If you’re looking for more guidance along the waterway, Tualatin Riverkeepers also offer paddling events throughout the year.
Traveling with your own kayak? You can launch along the river year-round. The official map lists river access points, as well as places to stop and grab a bite along the trail, will help guide you along the river.
Learn more about the Tualatin River National Water Trail >>>
Download the Tualatin River Water Trail Map >>>
Henry Hagg Lake
In the western part of the valley, Henry Hagg Lake is a go-to spot for anglers looking to hook a rainbow trout or smallmouth bass. In addition to fishing, the lake is ideal for stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, boating and water skiing.
Fishing in Tualatin Valley
Fishing is another popular pastime in Oregon, and visitors can get in on the angling action, as well. Trout, crappie and bass are just three varieties of fish that can be found in the Tualatin Valley’s rivers, lakes and ponds — it’s some of the best and most diverse fishing you’ll find near Portland, Oregon. Find where to fish in Tualatin Valley >>>
Permits
Adults with boats 10 feet long and longer need a Waterway Access Permit. This includes rafts, stand up paddleboards, kayaks, canoes etc. You can buy a permit online through the Marine Board’s Boat Oregon Store or at the ODFW office, ODFW License Agents, or ORFW Electronic Licencing System. Learn more about waterway permits >>>
Frout, crappie and bass are just three varieties of fish that can be found in the Tualatin Valley’s rivers, lakes and ponds — it’s some of the best and most diverse fishing you’ll find near Portland, Oregon.
Hagg Lake is a popular spot for water activities, such as swimming, kayaking, canoeing, sailing, water skiing, jet skiing and motorboating. Fishing also is a popular pastime here.
Imagine paddling down 40 nautical miles of a peaceful, slow-moving river. Hear the sounds of birds greeting the passersby, while enjoying a cool trip through tree-lined waterways.
