thats true, beginner hole has the big pull out (where the hatchery outlet dumps in to the river )and alot of people. but go down to the bend into the deeper water on those big rocks and bounce big eggs. I usually see a boat pick one up there. it can be harder to cast with the rocks right behind you but it is a good spot.
red barn is just up from there past prichards store. that is a good hole to hit if you just have an hour or so and wanna wet a line.

sometimes I will hit the very bottom boat launch in the frog water and throw k-10's thru 16's. if i only have an hour and dont want to leave the hwy on my way back to seattle from ptld.
the kalama is a beautiful river worth checking out