The Oregon Recreation Report (fishing, hunting, viewing), updated Wednesday, Feb. 14, by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife:

WILLAMETTE ZONE

FISHING

Steelhead counts over Willamette Falls picked up a little last week. The spring reservoir refill has begun and river flows below the dams will be varying with shower activity. A few fresh steelhead have been picked up in the Willamette near Salem and in the lower reaches of the North and South Santiams.

CLACKAMAS RIVER: The river conditions have been steady for the past week but unfortunately that means the water is running low and clear. Monday's flows were at 2,010 cfs (12.02') and the water temperature at the hatchery was 36°. Some warmer, wetter weather later this week could signal an improvement is coming.

Angling has been slow to fair due to the cold, clear water conditions. Winter steelhead are distributed throughout the river from McIver down to Gladstone, but hooking into fish is a challenge right now. There have been some fair catches below Carver, but most of the success is coming to the more experienced anglers. Due to the low water, the river above Carver is primarily accessible by drift boat or inflatable craft.

Bank anglers can find access to the river in the Gladstone/Cross Park area, at Carver near the mouth of Clear Creek, along Clackamas River Rd, at Barton Park, at Bonnie Lure Park, at McIver Park near Dog Creek, and from the McIver Park boat ramp on up to River Mill Dam.

Boat anglers can find access to the river from boat ramps located at McIver Park (both upper and lower), Feldheimer's, Barton, Carver, Riverside, or Clackamette.

Boaters should be aware that early winter high water events have made changes to the river that could surprise unsuspecting boat anglers. Be very cautious in unfamiliar areas, particularly during these low flow periods

EAGLE CREEK: The creek remains unchanged with very low flows and crystal clear visibility. An expected change in the weather pattern to showery, warmer weather should provide relief and improve angling conditions. The water temperature was 36° on Monday morning as the cold nights continued to affect the creek. Fish movement has nearly stopped due to the cold, clear water.

Winter steelhead can be found throughout the creek and reports are that a few fish have been caught in different areas. However the cold, clear water has slowed the effort and the catch as both anglers and fish await some warming rainfall. When the conditions change expect to see the catch improve dramatically.

The water conditions on Eagle Creek can play an important part in deciding the type and color of gear to choose. Be prepared with both bright and subtle colors of jigs or spinners. Anglers may also have success with sand shrimp or small egg clusters and yarn.

The most popular spots to try include the Bonnie Lure area, the water above and below the lower fish ladder, Eagle Fern Park, and up near the hatchery. Much of the creek meanders through private property so pay attention to your location and secure permission before fishing from private property.

EE WILSON POND: Will be stocked with legal and larger trout. Angling is allowed by free self-service permits, available at EE Wilson Pond. Check station.

Detroit, Foster, and Green Peter reservoirs are all near low pool and carrying good populations of holdover trout and kokanee. Cold water will bring the fish closer to the surface and they should be responsive to an offering of bait, especially in combination with a flasher attractant.

JUNCTION CITY POND: Will be stocked with legal trout.

SANDY RIVER: The Sandy has continued to drop due to the dry weather. Flow readings for Monday showed 1,310 cfs (9.04') and a water temperature near 38°. The river was a decent color over the weekend and very fishable, but the cold water is having an impact. The temperature for Cedar Creek was up to 42° but angling was still slow.

Winter steelhead anglers in the mainstem had some improved success over the weekend with wild fish dominating the catch. Angling effort was fairly light due to the water conditions. Movement of steelhead into the hatchery has been very slow this past week but rain and warmer weather will make a significant difference.

The Sandy fish are now a later returning stock versus what anglers were used to a few years ago. This is a result of the wild broodstock program initiated under the current Sandy River fish management plan. Angling should get better heading into late January and decent catch rates should continue through March.

Anglers can access the river from many parks including Lewis and Clark, Dabney, Oxbow, and Dodge. Bank access is also available to the Cedar Creek area at the Sandy Hatchery. When fishing the Oxbow Park area, remember that there is no angling from a floating device upstream from a point that is 200 feet below the Oxbow Park boat ramp.

Collection/recycling receptacles for discarded or lost fishing gear can now be found along the Sandy River. Look for them near boat ramps at Lewis and Clark, Dabney, Oxbow, and Dodge parks. Any tangled fishing line or old gear can be collected and disposed of in these canisters as an effort to maintain a healthy, clean Sandy River. Please use nearby garbage cans for any other types of trash.

The ponds in Salem, Walter Wirth Lake and Walling Pond have been stocked recently with catchable sized rainbow trout.

WILLAMETTE RIVER: The Willamette River flows are unusually low, approaching levels often seen in early summer. Monday's readings were at 11,000 cfs, the visibility was 4.0 feet, and the temperature was very cold at 38°. Fish counts at Willamette Falls totaled 1,387 winter steelhead through February 3rd. Fish movement has been very slow this past week due to the cold water conditions.

Winter steelhead anglers had some good days in early January, but the current cold water conditions are holding back the bite somewhat. Anglers can expect the Meldrum Bar and Dahl Park areas to provide the greatest opportunity. Steelhead will usually hug the bank in this area, many trying to get into the Clackamas River water as it flows into the eastern side of the Willamette. Most of these fish are destined for the Clackamas River and Eagle Creek.

There has been a small number of spring chinook caught in the Oregon City area with fish landed by both boat and bank anglers. The Sellwood area and Multnomah Channel have yet to produce any confirmed springer catch. It's early to expect spring chinook in good numbers, particularly with the cold water, but spring chinook angling has now definitely been brought into the picture.

Please note that the Willamette River, including Multnomah Channel, is open for the retention of sturgeon under recently modified rules. Effective February 1, 2007 the retention of sturgeon is allowed Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday of each week until July 31, 2007. Monday through Wednesday of each week angling for sturgeon is allowed, but on a catch and release basis only. Please also note that anglers are limited to the use of only one single-point barbless hook while angling for sturgeon.

There continue to be good reports of both keeper and sublegal sturgeon catch in recent days. The sections of river both above and below the St Johns Bridge have been very productive, as has Multnomah Channel. Boat anglers might also try the Oregon City/Gladstone area. Bank fishing for sturgeon can be found at Meldrum Bar and at the wall in downtown Oregon City. Sturgeon anglers have used fresh smelt or herring as effective bait.

HUNTING

Game bird seasons are now closed.

E.E. WILSON WILDLIFE AREA (Monmouth): Open to rabbit hunting and deer hunting for those with Willamette deer tag (except Coffin Butte tract). Rabbit hunting is slower than other years, with overall population numbers down as part of a natural cycle, but opportunities still exist until the season ends at the end of February. Angling pond opens Feb. 1; stocked with rainbow and brook trout of various legal sizes.

VIEWING

SAUVIE ISLAND WILDLIFE AREA: Sauvie Island Wildlife Area had over 1,000 participants this past Saturday for the third annual Raptor Road Trip, a self-guided tour of the Island's birds of prey (Raptors). The event was open to the public and cosponsored by Metro, Portland Audubon, Hawk Watch and Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife.

There have been sightings of a Black Phoebe on Sauvie Island, just outside the Wildlife Area near the intersection of Gillihan and Reeder Roads. The Black Phoebe is a medium-sized song bird; mostly black with a white chest and undertail. Black Phoebes are few in Oregon and primarily reside in Northern California and the Southwestern United States. They are members of the flycatcher family and their diet consists mainly of insects.

FERN RIDGE WILDLIFE AREA: Royal Avenue and the trail to the Fisher Butte viewing platform remain open daily. During winter, the populations of Dusky Canada Goose, Northern Pintail, Great Egret, Ring-billed Gull, Black-bellied Plover increase. Peak counts each winter reach 15,000 to 27,000 birds. Many Tundra Swans that roost on the lake during the night and fly out to the surrounding fields at daybreak. Source: Oregon's Important Bird Areas website.

E.E. WILSON WILDLIFE AREA: Hunting season is over so opportunities to see view waterfowl and shorebirds on the area are improving. Some unique birds that have been seen recently include loggerhead shrike, white-tailed kite, swamp and white-throated sparrows.

NORTHWEST ZONE

FISHING

Mid Coast Lakes Stocking Schedule: The following water bodies will be stocked with catchable rainbow trout during the week of February 12th. In the Newport area: Big Creek Reservoir 2, Olalla Reservoir. In the Florence area: Alder, Buck, Cleawox, Dune, Elbow, Lost, North Georgia, Perkins, Siltcoos Lagoon, and Munsel lakes. In the Waldport area: Thissel Pond.

ALSEA RIVER: Winter steelhead fishing has picked up with recent rains for both drift boat and bank anglers. Good harvest levels of hatchery fish should remain steady throughout the week. Current river levels and forecasts can be found at http://www.nwrfc.noaa.gov/river/station/flowplot/flowplot.cgi?TIDO3.

BIG CREEK: Winter steelhead angling is slow. Water levels have dropped, and are low and clear. Use small baits or lures for best success. Call 503-458-6529 for recorded fishing information.

GNAT CREEK: Gnat Creek is a small, short stream located 18 miles east of Astoria on Hwy 30. The 3.5 miles upstream from tidewater to Barrier Falls (1000 feet upstream from Gnat Creek Hatchery) is all public access with angler parking along Hwy 30. Steelhead fishing has been slow with the low clear water. Call 503-455-0701 for recorded water conditions and steelhead fishing information.

KILCHIS RIVER: Winter steelhead angling is slow. The river level is very low, and the river is extremely clear. A tree has fallen across the river just below Kilchis Park. Although partially cleared, boaters should use extreme caution in this stretch until the tree is cleared.

NECANICUM RIVER: Winter steelhead angling is slow. Water is low and clear. Anglers should be persistent, and concentrate on the lower river.

NORTH FORK NEHALEM RIVER: Winter steelhead angling has been slow to fair. Fishing has slowed as the stream has dropped and cleared. There are still a fair number of hatchery fish available. Call the Nehalem Hatchery recorded information line at 503-368-5670 for updated reports. ODFW is conducting voluntary creel surveys on the North Fork. There are kiosks located at several locations along the river for anglers. Please stop and fill out a survey form.

NORTH FORK KLASKANINE RIVER: Hatchery winter steelhead are available throughout the system up to Klaskanine Hatchery. Fishing has been slow. Water level is low and is very clear. Public access is available at the hatchery and downstream off of Hwy 202.

NESTUCCA RIVER AND THREE RIVERS: Water levels are low and streams are clear. Angling for winter steelhead has been slow to fair. The catch is a mixture of hatchery and wild fish. Anglers should concentrate on the lower river system for the best chance of catching fresh fish. Some fish are available throughout the river system. Side drifting small baits has been the most productive for boaters. Before fishing, check river levels at http://ahps2.wrh.noaa.gov/ahps2/hydrograph.php?wfopqr

NORTH COAST LAKES: Trout stocking will begin in March. Coffenbury Lake, Sunset Lake, Town Lake, Cape Meares Lake, Tahoe Lake, Spring Lake, and Lorens Pond have been stocked with surplus hatchery steelhead.

SALMON RIVER: Winter steelhead catch and release fishing is slow.

SILETZ RIVER: Winter steelhead fishing is good for the drift boat fishery and for bank fishing near Moonshine Park and above. The fishery is expected to remain good for the week and through the weekend. Current river levels and forecasts can be found at http://www.nwrfc.noaa.gov/river/station/flowplot/flowplot.cgi?SILO3

SIUSLAW RIVER: The winter steelhead fishery is good. The fishery is anticipated to remain steady throughout the weekend. Current river levels and forecasts can be found at http://www.nwrfc.noaa.gov/river/station/flowplot/flowplot.cgi?MPLO3

TILLAMOOK BAY: Angling for sturgeon has slowed recently. Use sand shrimp on the bottom near the channel edges on the outgoing tides for best success. Move often until you locate some fish.

WARM WATER ANGLING: The mid coast has many lakes which have a variety of warm water species. Fishing for these species is typically very good from late spring to late fall using a variety of baits and lures. The following is a list of accessible lakes with some of the warm water fish species. In the Lincoln City area - Devils Lake (large mouth bass, perch, bluegill); in the Newport area n Big Creek Reservoir 1 and 2 (large mouth bass, brown bullhead); in the Toledo area n Olalla Reservoir (large mouth bass, bluegill); in the Waldport area n Eckman Lake (large mouth bass); in the Florence area n Sutton, Mercer, Munsel, Woahink, Siltcoos and Tahkenitch Lakes (large mouth bass, perch, bluegill, crappie, brown bullhead).

WILSON AND TRASK RIVERS: Winter steelhead are available throughout the Wilson and Trask rivers, but the best chance for fresh fish is in the lower river areas. Angling has been slow to fair, with the river getting low and clear. The catch has been a mix of hatchery and wild fish. Fish are spread throughout the river systems. Check river levels at http://ahps2.wrh.noaa.gov/ahps2/index.php?wfopqr prior to fishing.

YAQUINA RIVER: Winter steelhead fishing is slow to fair. The fishery in the Big Elk should be fair to good throughout January. The best fishing in the Big Elk is typically from the fishing deadline and downstream a few miles.

HUNTING

COUGAR season is open on the north coast. These secretive animals are difficult to hunt in an active sense, by stalking or glassing areas. They are best hunted from a stand with a predator call and an aggressive calling technique.

VIEWING

The OREGON COAST BIRDING TRAIL GUIDE www.oregoncoastbirding.com is a website that highlights great birding opportunities all along the Oregon coast. It's divided into sections of coastline, and the north coast is only a click away from the main home page. On the north coast page, you can find key areas with a summary of birds typically found there along with a legend of services found nearby. Links to checklists and sponsors can be found on the home page as well.

GRAY WHALES are migrating south from the Bering Sea on their way down along the Pacific coast to the Baja area. Late December and early January is the peak of the migration season, but the migration continues through March. There are a number of excellent places to view the whales from. From north to south, places include Ecola State Park and Silver Point near Cannon Beach, Oswald West State Park and Neah-Kah-Nie Mtn. near Manzanita, Cape Meares and Cape Lookout State Parks west of Tillamook, and Cape Kiwanda near Pacific City. Be sure to bring your binoculars for best viewing!

ROOSEVELT ELK are common in the fields at Jewell Meadows Wildlife Management Area, located in central Clatsop County off of Hwy. 26. The larger bulls are generally found in fields on the west end of the main refuge tract (Fishhawk) along Hwy 202, and the cows, calves and smaller bulls usually occupy the larger fields on the eastern end. Elk can also be seen on the Beneke Tract along Beneke Road and on the Humbug Tract near Camp 18 along Hwy 26.

STELLAR SEA LIONS have been seen in large numbers on Seal Rock, which is one of the smaller rocks within the Three Arch Rocks National Wildlife Refuge, located just west of Oceanside. Unlike their smaller cousin, the California Sea Lion, Stellars are far less numerous and actually federally listed as a threatened species. The large pinnipeds can be seen there almost any month of the year.

MIGRATING WATERFOWL are in north coast estuaries, including the lower Columbia River, in good numbers. These include geese, dabbling, diving and sea ducks as well as grebes, loons and rails. Tillamook Bay is an excellent place to see this large variety of seasonal birds.

TWILIGHT EAGLE SANCTUARY, located east of Astoria off of Hwy 30 near Svensen, and is an excellent place to see wintering birds in and around the Columbia River. Not only do bald eagles frequent the adjacent Wolf Bay area, but a wide assortment of water loving birds, including swans, geese, ducks, grebes and rails as well as song birds. There is a handicap accessible platform located just off of the road. Be sure to bring your binoculars and spotting scope.

NESTUCCA BAY NWR is home to a variety of Canada Geese, including the Aleutian, Dusky, Cackler, Western and others. Located along Hwy 101 near Pacific City, the refuge also fronts Nestucca Bay, where many other types of water-loving birds can be observed as well.

SOUTHWEST ZONE

FISHING

APPLEGATE RIVER: The Applegate is still low and clear despite recent rains, and fishing has been slow. A few steelhead have been caught on 1/3 and ¼ oz spoons. Outflows from the reservoir are averaging 120 cubic feet per second and the river temperature is 39F. The Applegate River is open for adipose fin-clipped steelhead between January 1 and March 31. The Applegate is also open for trout fishing with a limit of 2 adipose fin-clipped rainbow trout per day, 8 inch minimum length. Non-adipose fin-clipped rainbow trout and all cutthroat trout must be released unharmed. The use of bait is allowed.

APPLEGATE RESERVOIR: Rainbow trout and land-locked juvenile spring chinook salmon are available. Bank anglers will likely fish either floating bait or worms, while trollers can do well fishing a spinner and worm combination. The low water ramp at French Gulch is open.

CHETCO RIVER: Fishing conditions have dramatically improved over the weekend. Increased flows should make for excellent steelhead fishing all week. Fishing has been good for both bank and boat anglers.

COOS COUNTY LAKES: Trout stocking scheduled for late February has been pushed back to late March. Cold water temps slowed trout growth this winter and delaying the stocking will allow trout to put on additional size prior to stocking. Nice holdover trout are available though. Warmwater fish can still be caught but require a slow presentation with the low water temperatures.

COOS RIVER BASIN: Rain brought up river levels some and fish are moving but more rain will improve fishing. Steelhead runs typically peak through February. Anglers still have time to get out for some great steelhead fishing. The West Fork Millicoma has good public access on the Elliott State Forest where many steelhead are caught. The Nesika Park area on the East Fork also has good public access. Access to the South Fork above Dellwood requires a permit from Weyerhaeuser Co., available at Airport Heights and TNT Markets. Weyerhaeuser is no longer issuing these permits at their Dellwood office. The stretch of river above Dellwood has good bank access and an acclimation site near mile 5 where many fish are caught.

COQUILLE RIVER BASIN: Water conditions came up some and fishing has improved in the Coquille basin. During the lower water conditons experienced this year, anglers have been more successful above Myrtle Point around the South Fork/Middle Fork confluence. Fishing should be good through February when water conditions cooperate. The South Fork and North Fork Coquille provide good opportunities for anglers to catch steelhead. Laverne Park on the North Fork provides good bank access for anglers.

EMIGRANT RESERVOIR: If water clarity is good, early season trout anglers might want to try Emigrant for holdover rainbow stocked last year. As of Tuesday morning visibility was 1-2 feet. Bass and panfish are also available. Anglers should be aware that recent testing by the Department of Human Services has found elevated levels of mercury in smallmouth bass at Emigrant, and a health advisory has been issued recommending limits on consumption of all fish from Emigrant except rainbow trout. Information on the Emigrant Reservoir advisory, along with general information on mercury and fish can be found on the DHS website at www.healthoregon.org/fishadv.

EXPO POND: Adult summer steelhead are available in Expo Pond located immediately adjacent to the access road at Gate 5 at the fairgrounds. These fish, stocked in January, are excess to broodstock needs at the hatchery and are in good condition, averaging 4 to 5 pounds. Anglers have had success casting spinners and spoons. Fly anglers casting leech or wooly bugger-type streamers should do well, while bait anglers might try either nightcrawlers or a small piece of salmon roe either below a bobber or off the bottom. Trout bag limits for lakes are five per day, 8 inch minimum length and one fish over 20 inches.

FISH LAKE: Rainbow and brook trout are available. Anglers should be prepared for winter conditions and varying levels of ice coverage.

ILLINOIS RIVER: The Illinois River up to Pomeroy Dam is open for adipose fin-clipped steelhead and trout between Jan. 1 and March 31. Tackle is limited to artificial flies and lures only.

LAKE SELMAC: Trout stocking in the Rogue basin will begin this week at Lake Selmac, which will be stocked with 4,100 legalsized rainbow. Largemouth bass and panfish are also available. Bank anglers should try floating bait off the bottom.

LOST CREEK RESERVOIR Rainbow trout and land-locked juvenile spring chinook salmon are available. Bank anglers will likely fish either floating bait or worms, while trollers can do well fishing a spinner and worm combination.

PACIFIC OCEAN & BEACHES: Bottom fishing has been good with the recent calm conditions. Winter bottom fishing can be good when ocean conditions permit but anglers should be cautious of bar and ocean conditions that can turn dangerous quickly this time of year. The minimum size for lingcod retention dropped to 22 inches on January 1. The limit remains 2 legal lingcod. Some surfperch are being caught. Good spots for surfperch are around Horsfall Beach and Bullards Beach.

REINHART PARK POND: Reinhart Park Pond in Grants Pass, formerly called All Sports Pond, is stocked with 60 adult summer steelhead. The fish are excess to broodstock needs at the hatchery and are in good condition, averaging 4 to 5 pounds. Fishing success should pick up as the water warms. Bait anglers using nightcrawlers have had some success. Other techniques include casting small spinners or spoons. Fly anglers may want to try casting leech or wooly bugger-type streamers. Trout bag limits for lakes are five per day, 8 inch minimum length and one fish over 20 inches.

ROGUE RIVER, LOWER: Steelhead fishing turned on this week as Rogue River flows increased. Plunkers fishing Coyote, Huntley Park, Orchard, and Lobster Creek Bars all reported fair success. As waters drop and clear this week, expect fishing to improve all week.

ROGUE RIVER, MIDDLE: River levels are up and off-color following last week's rains, but fishing has improved. Anglers have been successful side-drifting roe to catch winter steelhead. Corkies and nightcrawlers are still effective. Some fish have been taken on plugs and bright yarn balls. Flows are averaging 4,590 cubic feet per second at Grants Pass as of Monday morning.

The Rogue from Hog Creek boat landing to Cole Rivers Hatchery is now open for non-adipose fin-clipped steelhead, at least 24 inches long; 1 fish per day, 5 per year as part of the daily or annual salmon/steelhead catch limit. The river is open to the harvest of adipose fin-clipped steelhead year-round.

Bank access for steelhead can be found at Chinook Park, Matson Park, Griffin Park and Robertson Bridge. Additional access is available below Hellgate Canyon. Gold Hill to Rogue River and Robertson Bride to Hog Creek are popular drifts for boat anglers.

The Rogue is also open for trout fishing with a limit of five adipose fin-clipped trout per day, 8 inch minimum length. All non-adipose fin-clipped rainbow and all cutthroat trout must be released unharmed.

ROGUE RIVER, UPPER: A total of 505 winter steelhead have been counted at Gold Ray Dam as of February 8. Outflows from Lost Creek Reservoir are averaging 39F and 729 cubic feet per second as of Monday morning; the surface temperature of the reservoir is 41F.Both winter steelhead and trout have been caught using worms and flies.

The Rogue from Hog Creek boat landing to Cole Rivers Hatchery is now open for non-adipose fin-clipped steelhead, at least 24 inches long; 1 fish per day, 5 per year as part of the daily or annual salmon/steelhead catch limit. The river is open to the harvest of adipose fin-clipped steelhead year-round.

Anglers are reminded that even during high water and turbid conditions along most of the Rogue, conditions are usually good between Big Butte Creek and Cole Rivers Hatchery where reservoir outflows predominate.

The Rogue is also open for trout fishing with a limit of five adipose fin-clipped trout per day, 8 inch minimum length, but all non-adipose fin-clipped rainbow and all cutthroat trout must be released unharmed. Bank anglers can enjoy good success between the hatchery and the Highway 62 Bridge, and at public access points such as Casey State Park, Rogue Elk Park, and Touvelle State Park.

SMITH RIVER: Winter steelhead fishing opened on Dec. 1. 125 winter steelhead have been passed through Smith River Falls. Catch and release fishing for wild steelhead has improved with the increased flows. There are a few hatchery strays that can be caught. Wild steelhead must be released unharmed from the Smith River. Hatchery clipped steelhead only may be retained.

SOUTH COAST LAKES AND PONDS: Boat and bank anglers fishing Garrison Lake have had fair success with carry over trout. In addition boat anglers have been picking up a few cutthroat.

SOUTH COAST STREAMS: Rains this weekend put the steelhead on the move. Anglers will have numerous options for catching a steelhead this week. Look for some of the best action to come from Elk and Sixes River. Anglers can keep on eye on Elk River flows by calling Elk River Hatchery. The best flow is 5 feet and dropping.

SOUTH COAST BEACHES: No report.

TENMILE BASIN: Steelhead are in Tenmile Creek and angling has been good. Watch for catches to improve following the next rain storm. Spinreel Park is a popular spot for anglers who fish within the park or walk downstream. Eel Creek is open for steelhead angling below Eel Lake, but the creek is small and brushy, and requires special techniques to hook and land fish from small pockets.

UMPQUA ESTUARY: Sturgeon fishing is slow as clear water continues. Crabbing has been excellent.

UMPQUA RIVER MAINSTEM: Winter steelhead fishing was very slow for the majority of last week. Fishing did pick up over the weekend and should remain good. The new storms have increase river flows and water temperature, causing steelhead that had been holding to move. Bank fishing will improve with the increased flows, and boat fishing may not be as effective. Side drifting roe was the most effective fishing method last week. Spin-n-glos are the favored lure and can be used effectively with or without bait. Anglers may now retain one wild winter steelhead per day and five for the year.

UMPQUA RIVER, NORTH: Steelhead numbers are slightly above average through Winchester Dam. The best bank fishing is occurring at the Idleyld Park area. Boat fishing improved late last week and more boats are floating the North with the increased flows in the main Umpqua. Winchester Dam counts show that 1,262 winter steelhead have passed over the dam through February 6th.

UMPQUA RIVER, SOUTH: Winter steelhead fishing opened Dec. 1. Wild steelhead must be released unharmed in the South Umpqua River. Fishing was slow through the Thursday of last week. On Friday stream flows and water temperatures increased causing steelhead to begin moving. Fishing should be good this week and the increased flows mean fewer hazards for drift boats. The drift boat slide at Rummel bar is nearly inaccessible and requires a good four-wheel drive. Bank fishing near Canyonville remains slow but there are fish to be caught as hatchery steelhead continue to keg up waiting for flows to increase allowing fish access into Canyon Creek. Hatchery clipped steelhead only may be retained.

WINCHESTER BAY: Crabbing was good for most of last week in Winchester Bay. Increased freshwater flows may slow crabbing. Sturgeon fishing should improve, when the estuary becomes fishable, with the large amount of food being washed downstream to the estuary from the high winter flows.

SHELLFISH

The entire Oregon coast is now open for razor clams, bay clams, and mussels. ALWAYS CHECK FOR HEALTH ADVISORIES by calling the Oregon Department of Agriculture's Shellfish line at 1-800-448-2474 for updates. For more information about razor clams and current status of particular areas see the ODFW razor clam web page at http://www.dfw.state.or.us/MRP/shellfish/razorclams

Crabs in Coos Bay and the Coquille are mating now which creates slow crabbing conditions. The crab are there and should be active again after mating is complete. Winter crabbing can be excellent when the weather and water conditions cooperate. The COOS BAY shoals (20-30 feet deep) along the inside of the North Spit from Empire to Charleston is a good area for crabbing. Public crabbing docks can be found in Winchester Bay, Bandon, Charleston, and Empire.

HUNTING

DOUGLAS COUNTY

Elk n All general seasons have passed, and only controlled hunts remain for the rest of the hunt year. Hunters are being asked to drop off their elk heads at the local ODFW office within 48 hours of harvest for CWD testing.

Cougar n Hunters can expect an average year. Cougars are abundant throughout with indicators pointing to stable or increasing numbers.

Waterfowl - South Coast Zone goose hunters can expect an average to above-average year. The final part of this season is from February 28 through March 10, 2007. All hunting is on private property by permission and hunters are reminded that public lands are closed.

TRAPPING

Furbearers n A reminder to trappers and hunters that specific licenses and tags are required to hunt many furbearer species, and hunters should refer to the Oregon Furbearer Trapping and Hunting Regulations for details.

* Bobcat and Gray Fox - Healthy populations throughout Western Oregon. The last day of the season for these species is February 28, 2007.

* River Otter, Beaver & Raccoon n Healthy populations throughout Western Oregon. The last day of the season for these species is March 15, 2007.

* Mink & Muskrat - Healthy populations throughout Western Oregon. The last day of the season for mink and muskrat is March 31, 2007.

COOS COUNTY

COUGAR: Look for areas frequented by deer and elk to hunt cougars. Roadless areas on public or private land with limited access are good choices. Remember to "ask first" before hunting private lands. Private landowners can be a valuable source of information when it comes to recent cougar sightings in the area.

Some hunters find success in harvesting cougars by using predator calls in areas where cougar sign is found.

Hunters are reminded to get a 2007 cougar tag before hunting cougars after January 1, 2007.

FURBEARERS: Now that big game and game bird seasons are over some open-minded hunters are taking advantage of hunting opportunities for furbearers. Furbearers include beavers, raccoons, bobcats and others. Other similar species that are hunted in winter include coyotes and nutria. Seasons for many of these animals are going on now. Most of them have a fur value and can be sold to fur buyers.

Due to the fact that specific licenses and tags are required to hunt many of these species hunters should refer to the Oregon Furbearer Trapping and Hunting Regulations to research this. Also, your local ODFW office can answer many questions.

CURRY, JACKSON AND JOSEPHINE COUNTIES

COUGARS: A new regulation for 2007 allows the purchase of two cougar tags, consult regulation. With low snow levels cougar tracks maybe easily located along ridge line, aggressive predator calling have resulted in successful hunting.

COYOTE: Coyotes numbers have increased in our counties. Hunters will find good success by predator calling. There are plenty of public lands to hunt. If hunting private lands remember to ask for permission.

WATERFOWL: Portion of the Southwest Coast counties have a goose hunt for February 24, 2007 thru March 10, 2007 hunt, consult regulations for details.

VIEWING

COOS COUNTY

Winter is a good time for viewing wildlife in Coos County. Big game animals are becoming visible in clear cuts and other forest openings. Often south slopes are the best place to look due to the fact that these slopes warm first in the mornings and green up occurs there first.

Waterfowl are numerous in many water bodies now. Many of these birds are in their colorful breeding plumage. Places to look would be in the calmer waters of Coos Bay and other bays, Bandon Wildlife Refuge, Dean Creek Elk Viewing Area and flooded farm fields in the Coquille River Valley.

DOUGLAS COUNTY

Bald Eagles n Observe wintering bald eagles along the main Umpqua River from Roseburg to Reedsport and N. Umpqua from Roseburg to Steamboat Creek.

Waterfowl n Good early morning duck and goose viewing exists every winter at Cooper Cr. and Plat-I in Sutherlin plus Stewart Park in Roseburg.

Songbirds n Winter songbirds including Western Bluebirds can be seen at Stewart Park and Stewart Park trail in Roseburg.

Fish Spawning n Each year there is a chance to observe wild Winter Steelhead spawning just below Soda Springs dam on the N. Umpqua River 55 miles east of Roseburg.

Fish Passage - Each year about this time there are Winter Steelhead migrating upstream passing through Winchester dam fish ladder on the N. Umpqua River which is open to the public. To view the migrating Steelhead go to exit 129 on I-5, proceed southeast on 99 to the fish ladder on the north side of the river.

ROGUE WATERSHED

DENMAN WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREA provides a covered viewing station with a good opportunity to view waterfowl, egrets, raptors and songbirds. The structure was built by the Oregon Hunters Association and is accessed by a paved, wheelchair-accessible pathway. It is on the Whetstone Pond, just north of the ODFW Rogue Watershed Field Office in Central Point.

LAKE SELMAC is a great place to see waterfowl, eagles, osprey and other lake shore birds. Directions from Grants Pass, take Hwy 199 west about 12 miles to lake turn off sign at Lakeshore Drive. Turn left, follow to lake.

LOST CREEK LAKE provides 30 miles of trails which includes portions of the Rogue River National Recreation Trail. Along the lake and river banks a wide variety of wildlife and wild flowers can be observed. During winter months deer may be seen early in the morning and late evenings along water ways. A brochure of the trail system can be picked up at federal land agency and visitor centers in the area.

HARBOR SEALS can be observed in estuaries throughout the South Coast. Look for sandy haul out sites. Remember, spring is puping season so please observe these animals from a distance. If you find pups on the beach, leave them where you found them.

WHALE WATCHING is occurring along the coast with the end of March as one of the two north bound migration peaks. Viewing points within Curry County from north to south are Battle Rock, Cape Sebastian, Cape Ferrelo, and Harris Beach State Park.

CENTRAL ZONE

FISHING

Due to cold weather and icy conditions, angler activity and updates to this week's recreation report are limited. Contact ODFW at the Deschutes Watershed Office (541) 388-6363 or Klamath Watershed Office (541) 883-5732 for more information.

ANTELOPE FLAT RESERVOIR: Opportunities for 12-14 inch rainbow trout are fair. Illegally introduced bullhead have had a negative impact on trout angling. Recent snows may limit access. Contact Ochoco National Forest @ 541-416-6500.

CLEAR LAKE: Clear Lake, located about 20 miles west of Maupin, has been stocked with keeper trout and should offer good angling opportunity.

COLUMBIA RIVER FROM BONNEVILLE RESERVOIR TO JOHN DAY DAM: Bass fishing has been good in the main Columbia and backwaters. Anglers are reporting good catch rates of nice bass in shallow water with artificial baits of various types.

CRESCENT LAKE: No boat ramps are accessible due to snow and the lake is still reported to be frozen over.

CROOKED RIVER BELOW BOWMAN DAM: Opportunities for 8-16 inch rainbow trout are good. Whitefish angling has also been very good. Flows are favorable for angling. Scuds and midge patterns are generally effective.

DESCHUTES RIVER: Dry fly fishing has been slow; anglers should look at using nymphing tactics in the slow water areas.

DESCHUTES RIVER Lake Billy Chinook to Benham Falls: No anglers were observed on the river to as basis for a report. Deschutes River flows are over 800 cfs which making the angling a little more challenging.

FALL RIVER: Angler success has been fair for some and poor for others. Fall River offers a great opportunity for anglers during the winter months though the fish don't always bite according to plan.

FROG LAKE: Frog Lake, located about 20 miles west of Maupin, has been stocked with keeper trout and should offer good angling opportunity.

HAYSTACK RESERVOIR: Rainbow and brown trout 10-18 inches are available. Reservoir is likely partially frozen over with unstable ice. No recent reports.

KINGSLEY RESERVOIR: Kingsley Reservoir, located west of Hood River, has recently been stocked with keeper and trophy trout and should offer good angling opportunity.

LAKE BILLY CHINOOK: The Metolius Arm is closed to angling. The balance of the reservoir has fair to good opportunities for bull, brown and rainbow trout.

LAURANCE LAKE: Laurance Lake, located near Parkdale, has been stocked with keeper trout.

METOLIUS RIVER: Depending on the weather and time of day fish may be seen on the rise chasing a caddis fly. The word is though, that the anglers have to really to work to get those same fish to look at their offerings. Still it's hard to beat a day on the Metolius.

OCHOCO RESERVOIR: Ice is breaking up and is unsafe for fishing.

PINE HOLLOW: Stocked with keeper trout.

PRINEVILLE RESERVOIR: Ice is breaking up and is unsafe for fishing.

ROCK CREEK RESERVOIR: Rock Creek Reservoir, located near Wamic, has been stocked with keeper and trophy trout and should offer good angling opportunity.

WALTON LAKE: Opportunities for 8-16 inch rainbow trout are fair.

HUNTING

GENERAL: Recreationalists should be prepared for cold, and wet or icy conditions. Snow accumulations are below average, but icy and crusted snow is present above 4000 feet elevation. Off road motorized travel should not be attempted without proper equipment and checking with local BLM and Forest Service officials regarding motorized access restrictions in effect to protect wintering big game.

PRINEVILLE RESERVOIR WMA: The north side access road and WMA are closed to motorized access for the protection of wintering big game. The area is open to foot traffic and other non-motorized access.

COUGAR: Cougar are reported regularly in the Maury, Ochoco, and Grizzly units, at all elevations and habitat types. Areas to consider include the Alkali Butte and Sanford Creek (Maury WMU); Bridge Creek, Sunflower Creek, and Lookout Mountain (Ochoco WMU); and Green Mountain, Mill Creek, and Marks Creek (Grizzly WMU). As winter progresses areas frequented by concentrations of wintering elk and deer will be areas to scout for cougar sign.

VIEWING

OCHOCO DISTRICT: Wintering bald and golden eagles, a variety of hawks and falcons, and waterfowl are present along the Post-Paulina Highway east of Prineville. If observers extend their drive and include the Puett Road loop through the Paulina Ranger Station they have an opportunity of seeing winter deer, pronghorn, elk, and coyotes. This route is suitable for passenger cars.

LOWER DESCHUTES WILDLIFE AREA: Visitors to this area can see California bighorn sheep on a regular basis upstream of Harris Canyon (RM 12). Access will be by boat or bicycle.

SOUTHEAST ZONE

FISHING

Snow will make access to some waterbodies difficult. Contact ODFW at the Deschutes Watershed Office (541) 388-6363 or Klamath Watershed Office (541) 883-5732 for more information on fishing opportunities.

ANA RESERVOIR: Hybrid bass fishing has been good. Trout fishing has been fair.

ANTHONY LAKE: Fishing is slow. Lake has thick ice.

BEULAH RESERVOIR: The reservoir was 58 percent full on February 11, and inflow was 126 cfs. Fishing is slow

BIG ROCK RESERVOIR: Access to this reservoir is difficult due to muddy roads.

BLITZEN RIVER: Catch and release for trout from November 1 through May 26. Two fish bag limit from May 27 through October 31. Warm weather mixed with rain and snow has led to variable river conditions. Flow was approximately 55 cfs February 12, and was as high as 115 cfs February 11.

BULLY CREEK RESERVOIR: The reservoir was 71 percent full on February 11, and about 90 percent ice covered. With the warmer weather the ice is beginning to melt around the edges. Angling for warmwater fish is slow. No ice fishing activity was observed last week.

BURNS POND: Ice may be off the pond soon. There was some open water along the edges on February 9.

CHICKAHOMINY RESERVOIR: Always watch for thin ice. No recent report on ice conditions. Be especially cautious after the recent warm weather. With recent warm weather, ice conditions could change rapidly.

CHEWAUCAN RIVER: The river is closed to angling below Paisley until May 28. Angling is fair for redband trout above Paisley as water temperatures have decreased.

COTTONWOOD RESERVOIR: Angling success has been slow. Remember special regulation, two trout per day. The lake is frozen and ice fishing is not recommended. Access is difficult due to snow

DEEP CREEK: Angling is fair for redband trout.

DUNCAN RESERVOIR: Reservoir is frozen. Access will be difficult due to snow.

DELINTMENT LAKE: Always watch for thin ice. Be especially cautious after the recent warm weather. No reports on ice thickness at the lake. Access up the Forest Service 41 road is only possible by snowmobile.

FISH LAKE (Steens Mountain): The north loop road is closed at Page Springs.

FOURMILE LAKE: Access is blocked by snow. The lake is frozen.

GERBER RESERVOIR: Gerber Reservoir is frozen. The warming weather has made the ice unsafe in spots. Perch angling has been good.

GRANDE RONDE LAKE: Ice is on the lake. Fishing is slow.

JUNIPER LAKE: No angling report. The lake was stocked with fingerling cutthroat trout during spring 2006.

KLAMATH AND AGENCY LAKES: Lakes are frozen. The warm weather has made the ice soft.

KLAMATH RIVER: Boyle Dam downstream to Oregon /California border-Angling for native redband trout has been slow. Keno Dam downstream to JC Boyle Dam: Angling for wild Redband trout has been slow but flows remain low enough for successful angling.

Keno Dam downstream to JC Boyle Dam: Access is difficult due to snow depth.

KRUMBO RESERVOIR: The reservoir is closed to angling from November 1 through April 27.

LAKE OF THE WOODS: The Lake is frozen although the warm weather has made the ice soft. Perch angling is reported to be good…

LITTLE HEART LAKE: Access is blocked by snow

LOFTON RESERVOIR: Access is blocked by snow.

LONG CREEK RESERVOIR: Ice fishing has been good but access is getting tough even with 4x4 vehicle.

LOST RIVER: Angling has been slow for warm water game fish.

MALHEUR RIVER (Warm Springs Reservoir downstream to South Fork Malheur River): Angling below the dam is slow. Flows from Warm Springs Reservoir have been shut for the winter

MALHEUR RIVER (from the South Fork Malheur River near Riverside, downstream to Gold Creek): Flow in this section is a result of runoff down the South Fork Malheur River and releases from the dams. Flows from Warm Springs and Beulah dams have been shut off for the winter. Angling below the dam is slow.

MALHEUR RESERVOIR: Water level is down about 10 feet from full. The reservoir is about 100 percent covered in ice. It is 8 to 12 inches thick. The warmer weather probably has started to melt the ice around the edges. Catch rates are fair to good.

MALHEUR RIVER, NORTH FORK: Access to the North Fork is limited by snow. Trout angling is slow. Remember to release bull trout. Angling is restricted to artificial flies and lures upstream of Beulah Reservoir.

MALHEUR RIVER, MIDDLE FORK: Access to the Middle Fork is limited by snow. Trout angling is slow. Remember to release bull trout. Angling is restricted to artificial flies and lures upstream of Bluebucket Creek.

MANN LAKE: No recent angling report. Special regulations are in effect. Two trout per day, 16 inch minimum length. Restricted to artificial flies and lures. The lake was covered with thin ice on February 8, but with recent warm weather, ice conditions could change rapidly.

MILLER LAKE: Access is blocked by snow.

MOON RESERVOIR: No angling report or ice conditions available. The access road has been closed to prevent road damage.

MURRAY RESERVOIR: Ice fishing has been fair.

NORTH MALHEUR BLM STOCK PONDS: Warmer weather conditions have started melting the ice. Anglers need to use caution when walking on ponds the ice may not be thick enough any more to support their weight.

OWYHEE RESERVOIR: The reservoir was 67 percent full February 11. All boat ramps are in the water. The reservoir upstream of Leslie Gulch Boat Ramp is ice covered. Warmwater angling is slow.

OWYHEE RIVER (Lower): Irrigation flows below the dam are shut off for the winter. Discharge was 21 cfs on February 11. Much of the ice in the upper sections of the river has melted. Anglers still need to be aware of redds and not step on them. Angling for rainbow trout and brown trout is slow.

OWYHEE RIVER (Upper): Discharge at the Rome Gage averaged 1952 cfs on February 11. It hit 5,000 cfs early on February 12. Angling for smallmouth and channel catfish is slow.

PHILLIPS RESERVOIR: Fishing is fair-good for trout and perch. Trout are running 12-14 inches. Perch are 10-11 inches. Some report that fishing near the bottom with cicadas (silver, blue, chartreuse, or gold) has been very productive. Ice is approximately 14 inches thick.

PILCHER RESERVOIR: Ice is on the lake. Fishing is Fair-slow. Water level is at 19 percent.

POLE CREEK RESERVOIR: The reservoir is about 90 percent covered in ice. Ice condition is unknown at this time. There is some ice fishing activity. Angling is slow.

POWDER RIVER: Open for catch and release upstream of Hughes Lane Bridge to Mason Dam. Artificial lures and flies only.

SHERLOCK GULCH RESERVOIR: Fishing has been good for legal sized trout. Check road conditions prior to traveling to reservoir.

SNAKE RIVER: Flow was 10,252 cfs near Nyssa and 14,118 cfs near Weiser on February 11. Angling for catfish and smallmouth bass is slow.

SOUTH MALHEUR BLM STOCK PONDS: Warmer weather conditions have started melting the ice. Anglers need to use caution when walking on ponds the ice may not be thick enough any more to support their weight.

SPAULDING RESERVOIR: Fishing has been slow for legal sized trout. Access will be difficult due to snow

SUNSTONE RESERVOIR: Fishing has been slow for legal size trout.

SYCAN RIVER: Closed to angling.

THOMPSON RESERVOIR: Access to Thompson Reservoir will be difficult due to snow. Reservoir is currently frozen.

THIEF VALLEY RESERVOIR: Fishing is slow.

TOPSY RESERVOIR: Angling for Warmwater fish has been slow. Access difficult due to snow.

UNITY RESERVOIR: Ice is on the lake. Some fish are being caught but generally slow. Water level is at 46 percent.

WARM SPRINGS RESERVOIR: The reservoir was 55 percent full February 11. The boat ramp is accessible but ice covered. The condition of ice around the reservoir is unknown at this time. Fishing is slow.

WARNER LAKES: Crappie are available. Winter conditions exist, be prepared.

WILLOW VALLEY RESERVOIR: The reservoir is frozen. Ice fishing is not recommended.

WOLF CREEK RESERVOIR: Ice is on the lake. Trout fishing has been good. Fish near the dam, as the ice is usually softer near the headwaters.

YELLOWJACKET LAKE: Always watch for thin ice. Be especially cautious after the recent warm weather. Test holes on February 1 indicated that the ice was approximately 18 inches thick, but ice thickness can vary. Fair angling for 8 to 12 inch rainbow trout. Access roads were covered with a few inches of snow and ice.

HUNTING

KLAMATH WILDLIFE AREA

Late white fronted goose season Feb. 24-March 10. The new Klamath County zone goose hunt will target only white-fronted geese as the birds are causing significant damage to newly planted alfalfa seedlings, alfalfa stands and winter wheat during the months of March and April. Hunt is allowed only on private land; Klamath Wildlife Area and all other public lands or waters owned or controlled by any state, county, or federal agency, including public waters, waterways, and impoundments, will be closed to hunting during this season.

SUMMER LAKE WILDLIFE AREA

HUNTING

California quail season ended on Jan. 31, 2007 with very little participation. Four hunters reported the harvest of 2 quail.

All game bird hunting seasons are closed now and discharging firearms is prohibited except by permit.

VIEWING

Viewing opportunities have improved following the end of game bird hunting seasons. Wintering waterfowl species are now very apparent and have spread out across the Area. A weekly waterbird count conducted on January 24 found about 2,500 ducks (15 species) and about 900 Canada geese, and over 1,000 swans (with at least 50 being trumpeters). Most waterbirds (other than waterfowl) have departed the Area at this time but a few species can still be found.

Early northward migrants (Arctic nesting geese [snow and white-fronted], Northern pintails and tundra swans) are beginning to appear and should increase as soon as cold weather conditions moderate and as Area wetlands open up. Viewers can expect increased numbers and species in the next few weeks.

Viewers should check the list at Headquarters for new arrivals and unusual birds.

Wetland habitats remain in fair condition due to winter weather and cold temperatures that have caused most ponds and still water to freeze-over.

Open water can be found scattered across the Area; along Ana River, in canals and other moving water areas found near water control structures. Natural food sources of seeds, tubers and plant parts remain abundant and available in nearly all wetland areas. Emergent bulrushes, cattails and other sedges and rushes are lodged over due to strong winds associated with storm systems improving bird access and use.

Upland sites remain in very good condition, providing abundant seeds for many species of birds. The ground is open and free from snow cover at this time. Trees and shrubs have produced abundant fruit and seeds.

Resident and wintering raptors are scattered throughout the Area as well as on private lands along Highway 31. Northern harriers are especially numerous over marsh and hay meadow areas and both red-tailed and rough-legged hawks are commonly seen.

Prairie falcons, bald and golden eagles are frequently seen during this time of the year. Bald eagles will increase in number following migrant flocks of waterfowl as they return north.

Passerine species (primarily sparrows) remain fairly common around the Headquarters Complex, Summer Lake Rest Area, homestead sites and shelterbreak plantings at the north end of the Area where they are attracted to tree and shrub cover found at those locations.

The Wildlife Viewing Loop is now open and will remain that way until next fall. Other major dike roads (Bullgate, Windbreak and Work Road) will also be open until March 15th when they will be closed to reduce disturbance to nesting waterfowl (Canada geese) and northward migrants. Secondary and minor dikes will remain closed to motor vehicle traffic and cross country travel by motor vehicles or ATV's is prohibited.

Non-motorized access and viewing opportunities are available across the entire Area at this time.

Camping is permitted at four sites on the wildlife area.

For additional information on viewing opportunities please contact the Wildlife Area at phone (541) 943-3152, fax (541) 943-3204, or email at odfwslwa@gooselake.com.

ODFW'S KLAMATH WILDLIFE AREA four miles south of Klamath Falls, is managed to provide habitat for wintering and nesting waterfowl, upland game birds, and a variety of other wildlife. Bald eagles, white pelicans and ospreys are among the bird species present during certain times of the year.

WHITE RIVER WILDLIFE AREA: Most roads are closed for the winter but you can usually see some deer and occasionally see some elk in areas. The best time to see the wildlife will be first thing in the Morning and in the evening just before dark. There is a possibility of seeing 200 or more head of elk on the wildlife area at times. Turkeys are in the lower elevations and can be seen on occasion especially in the Pine Grove area. A large number of Lewis woodpeckers are on the area and are always visible.

NORTHEAST ZONE

FISHING

Streams in the Northeast zone closed for trout angling.

IMNAHA RIVER: Steelhead angling is fair. Recent increase in flow has resulted in some improvement in angling success. We expect continued improvement in steelhead angling as long as river conditions are favorable.

JOHN DAY RIVER: Steelhead angling in the lower reaches of the river has tapered off as fish have moved upstream. Up until recently, the river between Service Creek and Kimberly has had substantial shoreline ice and ice floating downriver, severely hampering angler success. Success in the Mainstem John Day River above Service Creek and in the North and Middle forks up to the 395 deadlines should increase as the weather warms and water temperatures increase. Streamflow at the time this report was filed measured 2560 cfs at Service Creek Stream flow levels are available from the Service Creek gauging station at http://waterdata.usgs.gov/or/nwis/uv?14046500.

LOWER GRANDE RONDE RIVER: Recent high flow has reduced steelhead angling success. Angling should improve as high water recedes. Check the flow at

http://waterdata.usgs.gov/or/nwis/uv/?site_no13333000&PARAmeter_cd00065,00060

Flows between 800 and 2000 cfs generally offer good fishing conditions.

WALLOWA RIVER: Steelhead angling is improving with recent warmer weather and higher flow. We expect good angling success as long as river conditions remain favorable.

UMATILLA RIVER: Steelhead angling was good over the past week with a catch rate of 4 hours per fish, and angling pressure has been very light. Less than ten fish per day are being counted at Three Mile Dam. The best angling should be in the reach from Barnhart to Pendleton. River flow is in the 200-300 cfs range. For up-to-date flow information, visit the following website: www.usbr.gov/pn/hydromet/umatilla/index.html. No fish are being hauled upstream

WALLA WALLA RIVER: Due to relatively low flows, fishable numbers of steelhead have yet to return to the Oregon portion of the river.

HUNTING

GRANT DISTRICT

Game bird seasons are now closed.

COUGAR: Harvested cougars are required to be checked into an ODFW field office within 10 days of the hunt.

BAKER DISTRICT

General Conditions: Colder winter temperatures have subsided. Dry weather persists across the district with little snow cover. Green up has begun at lower elevations.

Cougars: Cougar numbers remain at high levels. With the absence of fresh snow cougar hunting is best accomplished with the use of calls and patience.

Coyotes: Coyote numbers remain relatively high and calling and trapping should be good. Be sure to ask permission to hunt or trap on private properties.

UMATILLA/PENDLETON DISTRICT

Duck and goose hunting now closed.

COUGAR: Cougars are well distributed in forested areas of the Walla Walla, Mt. Emily, and Ukiah units. Hunters will have best success by finding a fresh naturally made kill and sitting on it, or by using predator calls. Some success has come from following tracks until the cougar is located. Tracking conditions will improve with snows forecast for the end of November and December.

COYOTE: Coyotes are numerous throughout the District and hunters should have good success calling. Remember to ask permission before hunting on private lands.

WALLOWA DISTRICT

COUGAR: Cougar are abundant throughout Wallowa County, but can be difficult to observe during winter months. Locating fresh cougar sign and patiently calling attempting to imitate a fawn or calf in distress can sometimes be an effective technique.

COYOTE: Good numbers of coyotes can be found throughout Wallowa County. Calling is most successful in areas of reduced human activity.

ROAD CONDITIONS: Many roads at elevations above 4500 feet may not be accessible with standard vehicles due to deep snow. Roads plowed for logging still provide some access, but will have log truck traffic. Noregaard, Whiskey Creek, and Shamrock travel management areas are in effect through May 31.

VIEWING

Bald eagles can be seen along the South Columbia River basin wildlife management areas.

WALLOWA DISTRICT: Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep, elk, and mule deer can be observed at the Wenaha Wildlife Area, Troy, Oregon. Eden Bench provides a good opportunity to view deer and elk, while bighorn sheep are often observed in rim rocks above the Grande Ronde River. Bald eagles are common along the Grande Ronde River near Troy, and along the Wallowa River from Minam to Joseph.

BRIDGE CREEK WILDLIFE AREA: Good elk viewing opportunities at the Bridge Creek Wildlife Area in Pendleton.

ELKHORN WILDLIFE AREA: Elk can be seen daily at the Anthony Creek feeding station. Weekend wagon tours are still in operation through the end of Feb. for more information on the wagon tours contact T&T Wildlife tours at 541-856-3356. The public is to be reminded that all wildlife area lands are closed to public access Dec. 1. through April 10 annually.

SNAKE RIVER ZONE

FISHING

BROWNLEE RESERVOIR: Fishing has been very slow for all species.What fish are biting are deep. Some ice has been on the reservoir in the Powder river Arm. The reservoir is fairly stable at 13 feet below normal. Call Idaho Power Company's recording at 1-800-422-3143 to get information on access at recreational sites or visit www.idahopower.com under the "Rivers and Recreation" heading. For reservoir level information, visit http://www.nwd-wc.usace.army.mil/perl/dataquery.pl?kbrownlee

OXBOW RESERVOIR: Fishing is slow.

HELLS CANYON RESERVOIR: Fishing is slow. Approximately 1000 hatchery steelhead have been released into the reservoir for angling. These steelhead are considered trout in the regulations for Hell's Canyon Reservoir and above, and anglers may take one per day.

SNAKE RIVER (Below Hells Canyon Dam): Steelhead fishing has been good below Hell's Canyon Dam.

COLUMBIA RIVER ZONE

Please consult the 2007 Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations for further information regarding the Columbia River Zone.

Salmon, Steelhead, and Shad: The following regulations are now in effect for the mainstem Columbia River from Buoy 10 upstream to the Oregon/Washington border above McNary Dam:

BUOY 10 UPSTREAM TO THE I-5 BRIDGE: Effective January 1 through April 15, this section of the Columbia River is open to the retention of adipose fin-clipped spring Chinook, adipose fin-clipped coho, adipose fin-clipped steelhead and shad. The daily bag limit is two adult salmon (Chinook > 24 inches or coho > 16 inches) or steelhead and five jacks.

I-5 BRIDGE UPSTREAM TO BONNEVILLE DAM: Effective January 1-March 31, this section of the Columbia River is open to the retention of adipose fin-clipped steelhead and shad. The daily bag limit is two adipose fin-clipped steelhead.

BONNEVILLE DAM UPSTREAM TO THE OREGON/WASHINGTON BORDER ABOVE MCNARY DAM: Effective January 25 through March 15, 2007 his section of the Columbia River is open to the retention of adipose fin-clipped steelhead. The daily bag limit is two adipose fin-clipped steelhead. Effective March 16 through April 30, 2007 the retention of adipose fin-clipped spring chinook, adipose fin-clipped steelhead and shad will be allowed from the Tower Island powerlines (located approximately 6 miles downstream of The Dalles Dam) plus the Oregon bank between Bonneville Dam and Tower Island upstream to McNary Dam.

On the lower Columbia River below the I-5 bridge salmonid effort is light, although anglers are catching a few winter steelhead from the beaches.

Portland to Longview Boats: Weekend checking showed no catch reported for eight boats (incomplete trip).

Longview to Clatskanie Bank: Weekly checking showed no catch reported for 19 bank rods (incomplete trips).

The Dalles Pool: Weekly checking showed one adipose fin-clipped steelhead kept, plus one unclipped steelhead released for five bank rods; and six adipose fin-clipped steelhead kept, plus seven unclipped steelhead released for three boats.

Sturgeon:

BUOY 10 UPSTREAM TO WAUNA POWERLINES: This section of the Columbia is currently open to the retention of sturgeon seven days per week. The daily limit is one sturgeon between 42 and 60 inches. The retention of green sturgeon is prohibited.

The following modifications were adopted for the 2007 mainstem Columbia River sturgeon fishery from Wauna powerlines (River Mile 40) downstream to the mouth at Buoy 10, including Youngs Bay and all adjacent Washington tributaries. The modifications include:

* Allow the retention of sturgeon seven days per week during Monday January 1 through Monday April 30, 2007 with a 42-inch minimum size limit.

* Prohibit the retention of sturgeon seven days per week during Tuesday May 1, 2007 through Friday May 11, 2007.

* Allow the retention of sturgeon seven days per week during Saturday May 12, 2007 through Wednesday July 4, 2007 with a 45-inch minimum size limit in effect.

* Prohibit the retention of sturgeon seven days per week during Thursday July 5, 2007 through Sunday December 31, 2007.

* Catch and release of sturgeon may continue during retention closures.

WAUNA POWERLINES UPSTREAM TO BONNEVILLE DAM: Effective Thursday February 1-July 31, this section of the Columbia River is open to the retention of sturgeon on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays with a daily bag limit of one sturgeon between 42 and 60 inches in length and an annual limit of five fish. The retention of green sturgeon is prohibited. Catch and release of sturgeon is allowed on non-retention days.

The following modifications were adopted for the 2007 mainstem Columbia River Sturgeon fishery from the Wauna powerlines (River Mile 40) upstream to Bonneville Dam, including all adjacent Washington tributaries and the Willamette River downstream of Willamette Falls (including Multnomah Channel). The modifications include:

* Allow the retention of sturgeon four days per week on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday and prohibit the retention of sturgeon three days per week on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday beginning Thursday February 1, 2007 through Tuesday July 31, 2007.

* Prohibit the retention of sturgeon seven days per week during Wednesday August 1-Monday September 30, 2007.

* Allow the retention of sturgeon four days per week on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday and prohibit the retention of sturgeon three days per week on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday beginning Monday October 1, 2007 through Monday December 31, 2007.

* Catch and release of sturgeon may continue during sturgeon retention closures.

BONNEVILLE DAM UPSTREAM TO MCNARY DAM: In Bonneville, The Dalles, and John Day pools, the retention of sturgeon is currently allowed seven days per week. The daily limit is one sturgeon between 42 and 60 inches from Bonneville upstream to The Dalles Dam and one sturgeon between 48 and 60 inches between The Dalles Dam and McNary Dam. Pool specific catch guidelines have not been established, but will be determined in the near future.

On the lower Columbia River this past weekend 108 sturgeon boats were counted from Bonneville Dam to the Astoria-Megler Bridge on Saturday's (2/3) flight; although, catch rates remained low due to poor tides and cold water temperatures (37°F).

Gorge Bank: Weekly checking showed one sublegal sturgeon released for 15 bank rods (incomplete trips).

Gorge Boats: Weekend checking showed 22 sublegal sturgeon released for nine boats (complete trips).

Portland to Longview Boats: Weekend checking showed two legal white sturgeon kept, plus 44 sublegal sturgeon released for 50 boats (incomplete trips).

Longview to Clatskanie Bank: Weekly checking showed no catch reported for three bank rods (incomplete trips).

Bonneville Pool: Weekly checking showed three sublegal sturgeon released for 24 bank rods; and one sublegal sturgeon released for one boat.

The Dalles Pool: Weekly checking showed one sublegal sturgeon released for 15 bank rods; and no catch reported for one boat.

Walleye

Bonneville Pool: Weekly checking showed one walleye kept for three boats.

The Dalles Pool: Weekly checking showed one walleye kept for three bank rods.

MARINE ZONE

FISHING

A week-long series of low tides beginning Wednesday afternoon will provide opportunities for clamming and tidepooling when ocean conditions allow.

Crabbing in bays and estuaries is poor. For sport crabbers the minimum size for Dungeness crab is 5 ¾ inches measured in a straight line across the back immediately in front of, but not including, the points. For a photograph and diagram see page 93 of the Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations booklet.

Fishing has been good for lingcod and rockfish when ocean conditions allow. Lingcod and cabezon move inshore to mate and lay eggs this time of year. Fishers my find success fishing from the jetties for lingcod and cabezon. Fishing for rockfish and lingcod along the coast is good when ocean conditions allow. Anglers report fishing for lingcod is good. The marine daily bag limit for 2007 is six fish (including rockfish, greenling, cabezon and other marine species) and two lingcod. New this year, the daily limit for flatfish (flounders, soles, sanddabs, turbots and halibuts except Pacific halibut) is 25. Canary rockfish and yelloweye rockfish may not be retained. For illustrations and descriptions of these species see page 98 of the Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations booklet or download the Red Rockfish Identification Guide at http://www.dfw.state.or.us/MRP/regulations/sport_fishing. The minimum length for lingcod is 22 inches, for cabezon it is 16 inches and for greenling it is 10 inches. For complete regulations please see http://www.dfw.state.or.us/resources/fishing/regulations_2007.pdf

The entire Oregon coast is open for the harvest of razor clams. The daily limit for razor clams is the first 15 taken regardless of size or condition. For more information on Oregon's razor clams, including tips on how to dig razor clams, visit http://www.dfw.state.or.us/MRP/shellfish/razorclams. Sport harvest of mussels and bay clams is open coastwide also. A shellfish license is required for taking all shellfish.

For information on domoic acid visit the Oregon Department of Agriculture website at http://www.oregon.gov/ODA/FSD/shellfish_status.shtml or call their shellfish hotline at 503-986-4728 or 1-800-448-2474.

Recreational salmon fishing in the ocean is closed.

VIEWING

YAQUINA HEAD OUTSTANDING NATURAL AREA Accessible tide pools reveal their secrets at low tide. See anemones, hermit crabs, sea urchins, small fish, jelly fish, sea stars, barnacles and more. Between December and February look for southbound Gray Whales migrating to breeding and calving grounds in Baja. Look for seals and sea lions.