The Oregon Recreation Report (fishing, hunting, viewing), updated

Strong summer steelhead run enters Columbia

In the last month, over 135,000 steelhead have been counted at Bonneville Dam. This has meant good fishing in the Columbia and Deschutes rivers. Managers are projecting more than 300,000 steelhead will enter the Columbia during the summer steelhead season.

Summer cleaning is for the birds

This is a good time of year to clean up your bird feeders and sterilize them with a 10% bleach solution. With the warm weather, hummingbird feeders should be checked regularly and sugar solution changed when it appears cloudy.

Learn how to hunt: Aug. 16, Eagle Creek and Sept. 20-21, White City

ODFW's Outdoor Skills program has two upcoming events to introduce people to hunting. Saturday, August 16 ODFW will host A Day at the Range-Eagle Creek Gun Club, an event designed for beginners that will teach participants how to safely handle and fire a variety of firearms and shoot a bow. Cost is $60. September 20-21 join ODFW for a pheasant hunt at Denman Wildlife Area near Medford. Day one will consist of gun handling instructions, safety talks, skeet shooting, and an afternoon pheasant hunt using dogs. Day two will consist of a morning pheasant hunt. Cost is $40. Contact mark.newell@state.or.us or 503-947-6018 for more information or to sign up.

Archers: Time to pre-scout

Now is the time for archers to do their annual pre-scouting trips to the woods. Aug. 30 is not far away, so hunters should be spending the next month locating elk and deer herds. Most of the animals found now will be in that general location come opening season-and besides, it's a great time to be in the woods to avoid the heat of the valley. High elevations are the place to look.

NORTHWEST ZONE

FISHING

* The best bet for summer steelhead continues to be the Siletz River.

* Trout anglers seeking respite from summer heat might consider targeting sea-run cutthroat trout, which are beginning to enter rivers and basins throughout the zone.

NORTH COAST LAKES

Angling for warm water species, particularly largemouth bass, should be fair to good. Town, Cape Meares, Lytle, Coffenbury, Cullaby and Sunset lakes have reasonable populations of bass. Lower Columbia River backwaters and sloughs also provide some opportunity for warm water species.

MID COAST LAKES

Stocking rainbow trout for the mid coast lakes has ended for the season. Most water bodies had a final stocking in late May or the first week in June. Fishing will remain fair to good at most locations through the summer.

WARM WATER FISH ANGLING OPPORTUNITIES

The Mid Coast has numerous lakes or reservoirs which offer good angling for naturally produced warm water fish species, such as large mouth bass, yellow perch, bluegill, brown bullhead and crappie. Typically the best fishing is from late spring to mid fall while water temperatures are warm. Tactics such as casting or trolling lures, jigging baits near bottom or using the traditional bait and bobber technique are all productive from either a boat or from shore. Below is a list of lakes near local coastal cities that offer warm water angling opportunities.

Devils Lake (Lincoln City): Offers fair to good year-round trout fishing and also has slow to fair angling for largemouth bass, yellow perch and bluegill.

Big Creek Reservoirs 1 & 2 (Newport): Offers fair largemouth bass fishing, slow to fair angling for yellow perch and bluegill and good year-round angling for rainbow and cutthroat trout.

Olalla Reservoir (Toledo): Offers fair largemouth bass fishing, slow to fair angling for yellow perch, bluegill and brown bullhead and good year-round angling for rainbow and cutthroat trout.

Sutton and Mercer Lakes (northern Florence): Fair to good angling for largemouth bass and decent angling for bluegill, and potential for crappie and brown bullhead. Offers year-round rainbow and cutthroat trout fishing.

Woahink Lake (southern Florence): Can be good to very good for yellow perch and offers fair to good angling for largemouth bass and bluegill.

Siltcoos Lake (south of Florence): A large lake with numerous fingers, lots of shoreline structure and a couple large tributaries. Offers fair to good angling for largemouth bass, bluegill, yellow perch and brown bullhead. There is good year-round rainbow and cutthroat trout fishing and a good seasonal fishery for coho salmon.

Tahkenitch Lake (south of Florence): A large lake with numerous fingers, lots of shoreline structure and a couple large tributaries. Offers good to very good angling for largemouth bass and yellow perch, and fair to good angling for bluegill, crappie and brown bullhead. There is good year-round cutthroat trout fishing and a good seasonal fishery for coho salmon.

ALSEA RIVER: cutthroat trout

Sea-run cutthroat (blue backs) are showing up in tide water and the lower river and should reach good numbers over the next few weeks. Resident cutthroat trout can be found throughout the river and has been good angling. Concentrate at the lower end of riffles or in pools. As river temperatures rise, fish tend to hold in shaded or cool water areas near the confluence with tributaries. Using small spinners, spoons or flies is productive and floating dry flies can be action packed. Bait use is restricted above tide water through August 31. Steelhead and chinook salmon angling will reopen Aug. 1.

Current river levels

NECANICUM RIVER: cutthroat

Sea-run cutthroat angling should be fair to good in the lower river and tidewater areas. Use small lures or flies in the riffles or pools near some cover.

NEHALEM RIVER AND BAY: chinook, cutthroat

A few chinook are being caught in the lower bay up to the Wheeler area. Trolling herring near the bottom is productive in this part of the bay. Sea-run cutthroat fishing should be good in tidewater areas and the lower river. Casting or trolling small lures or flies in tidewater areas is productive.

NESTUCCA RIVER: steelhead, cutthroat trout

Angling for summer steelhead is slow to fair. Hatchery summer steelhead are being recycled from Cedar Creek Hatchery. The river is low and clear, with warming water temperatures. Best catches have come in the early morning or late evening. Catch-and-release angling for cutthroat should be fair to good, with sea-run cutthroat available in upper tidewater and lower river areas.

SALMON RIVER: cutthroat trout

Sea-run cutthroat are starting to show in tide water and the lower section of river. Good numbers typically return over the next few weeks. Resident cutthroat trout can be found through out the river. Anglers should concentrate in pools or shaded areas. Casting spinners and spoons or drifting small flies can be productive. Using dry flies is more challenging but can have great results. Use of bait above tide water is restricted through August 31.

SILETZ RIVER: summer steelhead, cutthroat trout

Summer steelhead numbers are continuing to be good the last few weeks and anticipated to continue the next couple weeks until river temperatures rise. Catch rates are still good with best success early in the morning or in shaded sections of the river as water conditions are getting low and clear. Hatchery fish are being recycled back downstream to the Moonshine Park area. These fish have a plastic tag near the dorsal fin. Please report tagged fish to the Newport Office (541-867-4741). Peak returns to the Siletz trapping facility typically occur in July. Drifting jigs and flies or casting spinners and spoons can be very productive. Bait is also allowed; sand shrimp and cured eggs work well. Anglers are advised to leave wild steelhead in the water while releasing. Sea-run cutthroat trout are returning with fair numbers down in tide water. Good numbers typically show over the next few weeks. Resident cutthroat trout can be found in good numbers throughout the basin. Riffles and pools and areas near cool water sources are productive as the river temperatures start to rise. Casting or drifting small lures, flies or bait all work well.

SIUSLAW RIVER: cutthroat trout

Sea-run cutthroat (blue backs) are returning to tidewater and the lower river in fair to good numbers. Trolling in tidewater, and casting or drifting small lures and flies in the river can be very productive. Resident cutthroat trout can be found in good numbers throughout the basin. Riffles and pools are good areas to concentrate on, as are areas with bank side structure and cool water sources. Use of bait is restricted above tide water through August 31.

TILLAMOOK BAY: sturgeon, salmon

Angling for sturgeon has been fair. Best angling will likely be in the upper bay or Tillamook River tidewater areas. Fish the outgoing tides when fish will be more concentrated. Fall chinook and hatchery coho are not expected to begin entering the bay for several weeks.

TRASK RIVER: steelhead, cutthroat trout

A few summer steelhead are available, but angling is only slow to fair. Fish early or late in the day for best action. Catch and release angling for cutthroat should be fair to good. Concentrate on the lower river or tidewater for fresh sea-run cutthroat. Johnson Bridge is being replaced. Demolition is underway. Boaters should use extreme caution when approaching the bridge. Passage at the work site will be provided.

WILSON RIVER: steelhead, cutthroat trout

Angling for steelhead has been slow to fair. Use light gear and small lures or bait as water levels are dropping and becoming clear. Best fishing is likely to be higher in the system. Catch-and-release angling for cutthroat trout should be fair to good. Sea-run cutthroat are entering the river and are available from tidewater upstream. The Siskeyville boat slide is under construction. The boat slide will be closed until further notice.

YAQUINA RIVER: cutthroat trout

Cutthroat trout fishing is fair to good throughout the basin and good numbers of sea-run cutthroat are returning to tidewater and the lower river areas. Trolling in tidewater, casting or drifting small lures and flies in the river can be very productive. Anglers should concentrate efforts in pools or riffles or near bank side structure. Use of bait is restricted above tide water through August 31.

Current river levels for major north coast streams

NORTHWEST ZONE HUNTING

OPEN: Cougar and bear

General COUGAR season opened Aug. 1 on the north coast. Densities of cougar are relatively low here, and the animals are hard to find unless you specifically target them. One of the most effective ways to hunt them is by using a predator call. An aggressive calling strategy works best on these shy and reclusive cats.

BLACK BEAR season opened Aug. 1, and bears have been very active on the north coast this summer. It is suspected that poor and/or late berry crops have resulted in more bears moving into human-populated areas than normal. Bears can be seen in openings (meadows or clear-cuts) in forested areas in early morning or late evening hours. Like with cougar, an aggressive calling strategy works best if you are actively hunting them. Reminder: starting this year, successful bear hunters must now check in their bear at an ODFW office soon after harvesting one. See our website or call an ODFW office for details.

NORTHWEST ZONE VIEWING

Road Trip Stop: Hwy. 30 Portland to Astoria

The Twilight Eagle Sanctuary is located east of Astoria near Svensen about MP 87 on Wolf Bay, a slough area of the Columbia River. Bring your binoculars and/or spotting scope, the area is host to a variety of local waterfowl, songbirds, raptors and shorebirds which are increasingly visible now that the young have left the nest and are more mobile. The sanctuary has a viewing platform, complete with interpretive panels about the area's wildlife and the Lewis and Clark Expedition.

Road trip stop: Hwy 101

Visit Fort Stevens State Park; it can make a fun day trip from Portland or Astoria. See waterfowl, shorebirds, wading birds and songbirds including brown pelicans, great blue herons, bald eagles, wood ducks and mallards. A viewing platform at Parking Lot C allows great seabird watching. There is also a viewing bunker, complete with interpretive posters of birds in the area, off of Parking Lot D that overlooks Trestle Bay. For maps and more information, visit the Oregon State Parks Web site.

Tillamook Area

Peregrines in flight

It has been another successful year for the peregrine falcons that nest at Cape Meares National Wildlife Refuge. Two chicks are well on their way to fledging. This year, the falcons nested on the cliff face across from the north viewing area. This is one of the few nest sites in the state that is readily visible to the general public and offers a rare treat for falcon enthusiasts. Be sure to bring your spotting scope for best viewing.

Cape Meares National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1938 to protect one of the last remnants of coastal old growth forest. Huge Sitka spruce and western hemlock, some over 200 feet tall and hundreds of years old, provide habitat for federally threatened bird species, including bald eagles and marbled murrelets.

For more information, visit the USFWS Web site.

Jewell Meadows Wildlife Area

Elk have been visible along Hwy 202 and Beneke Road. With the warmer weather, best viewing times are early morning and late evening.

Elk calves and deer fawns become more visible as summer progresses. Cows and does may still spend significant time feeding away from their young, however. Don't assume that a fawn or calf you may see lying alone has been orphaned. It is best to leave the area as the mother often won't return while their offspring are being watched.

Bucks and bulls in velvet also become much more visible and less wary at this time of year. They spend more time feeding each day as they need plenty of nutrition to supplement their rapidly-growing antlers and get in condition for the rut and winter.

Band-tailed pigeons have been seen near the viewing areas along Hwy 202. A variety of songbirds are visible near the bird feeders at most viewing areas.

For information and directions, visit the ODFW Web site Visitors' Guide.

SOUTHWEST ZONE

FISHING

Weekend fishing opportunities

* Babyfoot and Southard are hike-in lakes that offer some solitude and great trout fishing throughout the warm summer months.

* The half-pounders (steelhead) are in the lower Rogue. Fly-fishers have been doing well early and late in the day.

* Crabbing in Coos Bay from a boat is excellent. Best baits to use in your traps are fish, turkey legs, or chicken legs.

AGATE RESERVOIR: largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie

Angling for bass, bluegill and crappie has been good. As the weather heats up fishing will probably be best in mornings and evenings.

APPLEGATE RESERVOIR: trout, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass

Applegate Reservoir has been stocked with legal and trophy-sized trout. Angling for trout has been fair. Angling for smallmouth bass has been good. As the weather heats up fishing will probably be best in mornings and evenings. Several limits of trout have been reported recently.

ARIZONA POND: trout

Located half-way between Gold Beach and Port Orford at the Oregon State Park's newly acquired property. The lake is stocked bi-weekly with trout and provides a great fishing opportunity for kids.

BABYFOOT LAKE: rainbow trout, bass

Fishing is expected to be excellent for 8-10 inch trout most of the summer. The lake is located in the Kalmiopsis Wilderness outside of Cave Junction. Anglers should contact the USFS in Cave Junction for maps and road conditions.

BEN IRVING RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, bass

Ben Irving Reservoir, west of Winston, has been stocked with about 4,000 trout to date. In addition to trout fishing, angling for bass should improve now that the water is warmer.

CHETCO RIVER: cutthroat trout

Cutthroat are spread throughout the Chetco River with the estuary or upper Chetco producing the best. Anglers wanting to do a little hiking or who have a small kayak can access the upper Chetco River. Maps of the area can be obtained from the USFS in Brookings or Gold Beach.

COOPER CREEK RESERVOIR: rainbow trout

Cooper Creek has been stocked with about 9,000 catchable trout to date. The reservoir also received some trophy sized trout in February and then again in early June. One lucky angler caught a 9 pound trout out of Cooper Creek that was probably left over from a year ago. Nearby Plat I reservoir has also been stocked with about 3,000 catchable trout.

COOS COUNTY LAKES: trout

Trout are still being caught Empire Lakes and Eel Lake. PowerBait or a piece of worm are great baits to use for trout. Trolling spinners is another effective way to catch trout.

COOS RIVER BASIN: trout, chinook salmon

Trout season is open in streams and tidewater. Streams above tidewater are restricted to artificial flies and lures. Small jigs or spinners are always good lures to try. A few cutthroat have been found in the main Coos Bay.

There have been no reports of chinook salmon being caught in Coos Bay yet but remember emergency fall chinook salmon regulations begin Aug. 1 and continue through Dec. 31, 2008. Check the ODFW website or contact the local ODFW office for these emergency regulations.

COQUILLE RIVER BASIN: trout, chinook salmon

Trout season is open in streams and tidewater. Streams above tidewater are restricted to artificial flies and lures.

A few chinook salmon have been caught in the Coquille estuary from Rocky Point boat ramp to the mouth. Chinook salmon should continue to trickle into the estuary throughout the summer. Emergency fall chinook salmon regulations begin August 1 and continue through December 31, 2008. Check the ODFW website or contact the local ODFW office for these emergency regulations.

DIAMOND LAKE: rainbow trout

Fishing has been good, but anglers are having to spend some time on the lake to achieve their limits. Many people are catching trout in the 14 to 17 inch size and some people catching trout in the 20-inch size range. In a recent tournament, the winner caught a 4 pound trout! If anybody observes somebody using live bait; please record as much information as possible such as the boat number, description of the boat or vehicle license plate and contact Oregon State Police with a date and time. Anglers are reminded the boat speed limit will be 10 mph all day. This is the same speed limit that it was in the past prior to the negative impact of the tui chub. In addition to the 50,000, 2007 "fingerlings" which are now 12 n 15 inches long, the ODFW is also stocking additional catchable trout of which 15,000 were added last week. About 72,000 additional trout have been stocked. Of these, about 6,000 were trophy sized.

ELK/SIXES RIVER: cutthroat trout

Cutthroat are spread throughout both rivers. The best time to fish cutthroat is early morning or late evening when they move from the deep holes to the head of pools.

EMIGRANT RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, crappie

Angling for bass, crappie, bluegill and other warmwater fish has been good. Stocked rainbow trout are still available as well. Anglers should fish the flooded willows, the dam face and dike structures in Emigrant and Hill Creek arms.

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 Web site.

EXPO POND: rainbow trout

Expo Pond has been stocked with legal-sized rainbow trout, and angling for them has been good. Angling for bass and panfish has been good as well. Fishing bait, either from a bobber or on the bottom with weight, can be effective. The pond is located immediately adjacent to the access road at Gate 5 at the fairgrounds.

FISH LAKE: rainbow trout

Fish Lake will be stocked with legal-sized rainbow trout again this week. Fishing has been good.

GALESVILLE RESERVIOR: rainbow trout, bass

Galesville Reservoir is open to angling year-round. Galesville has been stocked with about 8,000 catchable size trout to date and the 25,000 sub-legal size trout stocked last fall are now legal-sized. Some anglers report seeing external "worms" on a few of the trout or in their gills. These are copepods, a fish parasite, which occur naturally throughout the watershed. The copepods can be removed and the fish safely consumed. Galesville was stocked in June with about 55,000 adipose-clipped hatchery coho. These fish are now legal size. In Galesville Reservoir, all landlocked salmon are considered trout. Thus there will be a 5 per day trout limit, with only one trout over 20 inches in length allowed for harvest.

GARRISON LAKE: rainbow trout, bass

Trout are scattered throughout the lake, but weed growth and warmer water are making for tough fishing conditions. Bank anglers will want to target the area along the foredune. Bank access is limited to the State Park or 12th street boat ramp. Anglers should keep an eye on the weather and target the lake when winds are light.

HERBERT'S POND: rainbow trout, warm water fish

Herbert's Pond is a small pond just east of Canyonville on Tiller Highway. The pond has a good warm water fishery for kids including bluegill, crappie, and bass. The pond was stocked with a couple hundred trout in early June to provide some additional fishing opportunity while the pond is still cool enough to keep the trout healthy. The pond has very good bank access.

HOWARD PRAIRIE RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass

Howard Prairie has been stocked with legal-sized rainbow trout. Fishing for them has been fair. The trout are well distributed throughout the lake. Floating baits are popular at Howard Prairie and have accounted for many of the fish that have been caught; however, trolling or casting lures and flies are also producing fish. The largemouth and smallmouth bass are active now that water is getting warmer, and fishing for them has been good.

HYATT LAKE: rainbow trout, largemouth bass

Hyatt Lake has been stocked with legal and trophy-sized rainbow trout. Trout fishing has been fair with a few limits of trout being caught. Largemouth bass are moving into the shallows and angling for them has been good. Hyatt Lake has an abundance of small bass that offer good opportunities for new anglers to catch a good number of fish.

LAIRD LAKE: trout

Trout fishing is excellent for 8 to 10-inch rainbow trout. Laird Lake is located approximately 15 miles up Elk River. Most anglers fish from the bank with fly rods or small spinning rods.

LAKE MARIE: rainbow trout

Lake Marie is at Umpqua Lighthouse State Park near Winchester. The lake has already been stocked with 4,000 trout. During Free Fishing Day weekend fishing was good and even an 18-inch trout was caught.

LAKE SELMAC: rainbow trout

Lake Selmac has been stocked with legal-sized rainbow trout, and they have been biting well on PowerBait and worms. Casting and retrieving lures or flies has also been effective, as has trolling lures or flies from a boat. Fishing for largemouth bass and panfish has been good. Several catches of large bass have been reported. Weather is heating up this week and big bass may move into deeper water during daylight hours. Fish deep and slow baits during hot weather.

LEMOLO RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, brown trout

Lemolo Lake has been stocked with about 5,000 catchable trout plus some trophy-sized rainbow trout to date. Anglers have been successful at catching both rainbow and brown trout. The boat ramp at Poole Creek has been repaired to improve boat access.

LOON LAKE: rainbow trout

Loon Lake has been stocked with about 7,000 catchable trout plus some trophy trout to date. In addition, there were almost 6,000 sub-legal trout stocked last fall that are now 8 inches long for legal for harvest.

LOST CREEK RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass

Lost Creek Reservoir has been stocked with legal-sized rainbow trout, and fishing for them has been fair. Bank anglers primarily fish either floating bait or worms. Boat anglers use a wide variety of techniques. Trollers often fish wedding ring and night crawler combinations behind a weight, while fly anglers can have success both trolling and casting. Angling for smallmouth bass has been fair. As of August 4 the surface water temperature was 70 degrees F. As the weather heats up, angling will probably be best in mornings and evenings.

MEDCO POND: rainbow trout, largemouth bass, panfish

Medco Pond has been stocked with legal-sized rainbow trout, and fishing for them has been good. Fishing bass and panfish has been good as well.

PACIFIC OCEAN AND BEACHES: surfperch, bottomfish

With sport catch of some rockfish higher than anticipated, the marine fish bag limit for anglers went from six to five. Sport anglers may still retain two lingcod, but that fishery is also restricted inside of 20 fathoms. The regulation changes took effect July 7 and are scheduled to continue through December 31.

Spring can be a great time for surfperch fishing from the beaches. Some anglers have been reporting success recently fishing the ocean beaches when the surf is down. The best areas are generally the steeper beaches. Anglers should cast into the surf with enough weight to hold your setup from moving with the current. Sand shrimp is a common and effective bait but others can work well also.

POWERS POND: warmwater species

A heavy algae bloom is occurring in Powers Pond making it difficult to fish. Even though fishing for bluegills has been decent. Fishing will be best in the low light periods of the day. Use a small hook with a worm under a bobber. Flies and small jigs will also work well.

REINHART PARK POND: trout, warmwater fish

Reinhart Park Pond has been stocked with legal-sized rainbow trout. Largemouth bass and bluegill are available also. Trout are hitting worms and floating baits. The bass and bluegill will take worms or a variety lures.

ROGUE RIVER, LOWER: chinook, steelhead, surfperch

Chinook fishing picked up over the weekend. Most of the chinook have been caught downstream of the Highway 101 bridge. The afternoons have been the best lately with the minus tides in the morning moving most of the chinook back into the ocean. Expect the bite to pick up in the mornings later in the week. As usual, an anchovy with a spinner blade is the number one bait, but straight bait or a spinner being a good second choice.

Steelhead fishing has been fair, with half-pounder steelhead providing most of the catch. Anglers fishing early morning or late evening have been doing the best. Fly-fishing is the best method for targeting half pounders, but spinners or worms can produce just as well.

Rogue River flows

ROGUE RIVER, MIDDLE: trout, steelhead

Early fall chinook fishing is slow. More fish should show up in the later part of August. Summer steelhead fishing is picking up as summer progresses. Try crawdad plugs, spinners and glowbugs. Small lures may be the best bet. Fly anglers may have success fishing riffles in mornings and evenings. More summer steelhead are expected to push up river in coming weeks and fishing will likely improve. The flow at Grants Pass on August 4 was 2720 cubic feet per second.

From August 1 through Dec 31, between Elephant Rock and Hog Creek boat landing, no more than two adult non-adipose fin-clipped chinook may be kept per day as part of the daily limit. No more than 10 non-adipose finclipped chinook may be kept per year with five applying to the SW zone aggregate.

From August 1 through Sept 30, from Hog Creek boat landing to Gold Ray Dam, no more than two adult non-adipose fin-clipped chinook may be kept per day as part of the daily limit. No more than 10 non-adipose finclipped chinook may be kept per year with five applying to the SW zone aggregate. From September 30 through Dec 31, Hog Creek boat landing to Gold Ray Dam is closed to chinook angling.

ROGUE RIVER, UPPER: trout, steelhead

As of August 4 the flow out of William Jess Dam (Lost Creek) was 2500 cfs and the outflow temperature was degrees. As of July 28, 2008, 2,239 summer steelhead have been counted at Gold Ray Dam. Angling for chinook is now closed above Gold Ray. Some fly-fishers targeting summers are reporting modest catches of fish in the evening hours. Other are picking up fish side drifting bait. Trout fishing has been good on flies and lures. Pressure has been light to moderate.

Emergency harvest restrictions were enacted on the Rogue River to protect wild spring chinook salmon due low numbers of adults returning to the river. As of Aug. 1, from Gold Ray Dam to Cole Rivers Hatchery is closed to chinook angling.

ROGUE RIVER (SECTION 5): rainbow trout

Section 5 of the Rogue River (upstream of Lost Creek Reservoir) will be stocked with legal-sized rainbow trout again this week. Access has improved at Crater Creek. Check with the Prospect Ranger District regarding access to Hamaker Campground and Minnehaha Creek.

SHUTTPELZ LAKE: cutthroat trout

Fishing for cutthroat trout has been good. Fish have been very active right before dark. Shuttpelz Lake is catch-and-release for trout and is restricted to artificial flies and lures.

SODA SPRINGS RESERVOIR: brown and rainbow trout

Soda Springs Reservoir and the tributaries upstream are open for trout angling.

SMITH RIVER: bass, trout

Open for adipose fin-clipped steelhead from mouth to Spencer Creek and North Fork from mouth upstream to Johnson Creek. Fall chinook season is open from mouth to Spencer Creek (check for special regulations). Trout season opened May 24 n Sept. 15. Striped bass season is open year-round, 2 fish per 24 hours, 30-inch minimum size. The North Fork is open to Johnson Creek for stripers.

SOUTH COAST STREAMS: steelhead

Trout season in the Umpqua tributaries, Smith River, South Umpqua, North Umpqua tributaries and Cow Creek basins opened May 24. The mainstem Umpqua and mainstem North Umpqua to Soda Springs Dam are open year-round for catch and release trout.

SOUTHARD LAKE: trout

Expect excellent trout fishing through the summer. Southard is a small lake accessible by trail. Anglers not familiar with the area should contact the USFS office in Gold Beach for maps and road conditions.

TENMILE BASIN: largemouth bass, warmwater fish

Largemouth bass fishing has been good. Best time to fish is during the low light periods of the day. Use jigs, crankbaits, or plastic lures and concentrate your fishing efforts near structure. Brown bullheads are very abundant. Fish for bullheads with a nightcrawler along the weedlines and in small coves.

TOKETEE LAKE: brown trout

Fishing is open in Toketee year-round. Fishing has been slow but the best fishing occurs early in the morning.

UMPQUA ESTUARY: sturgeon, bass

Both sturgeon and striped bass fishing have been slow in the lower Umpqua. Angling for small mouth bass should improve now that the water is warming.

UMPQUA HIGH LAKES AND FOREBAYS: trout

Diamond Lake and Lemolo are open for fishing. Meanwhile the department stocked Clearwater Forebay #2 with 1,000 trout plus some trophy trout. The road to Hemlock Lake is now open and the lake has been stocked. Lake of the Wood is also open, and it has been stock with about 800 trout. Anglers can also try Toketee which has good boat and bank access. Toketee is good for brown trout fishing, especially in the morning. Other high lakes such as Cliff, Buckeye, Linda, and Big Twin Lakes are now accessible for brook trout fishing.

UMPQUA RIVER MAINSTEM: steelhead, spring chinook

Remember the main stem Umpqua is now closed to wild steelhead harvest; it remains open year-round for adipose fin-clipped steelhead. Open for adipose fin-clipped Coho Aug.1-Dec.31. Starting Aug.1, check special regulation for fall chinook. Smallmouth bass angling will improve as the water temperatures warm.

UMPQUA RIVER, NORTH: steelhead

So far over 6,600 spring chinook and 4,000 summer steelhead have passed Winchester Dam. Open for adipose fin-clipped coho Aug.1. Springer fishing in the North Umpqua closed July 31. Summer steelhead fishing is now improving. Remember that only adipose fin-clipped steelhead can be harvested on the North Umpqua. The North is open to catch and release trout fishing from the mouth upstream to Soda Springs Dam.

UMPQUA RIVER, SOUTH: smallmouth bass

The South Umpqua is now open for trout and bass fishing. Water temperatures are exceeding 70 degrees, so fishing for smallmouth bass should be good to excellent.

WILLOW LAKE: trout

Willow Lake has been stocked with legal sized rainbow trout. Anglers should try using floating bait or worms. Casting and retrieving, or trolling lures or flies can also be effective. Angling is good for largemouth bass, crappie, and other warmwater fish. Look fore these species along the shore around structure.

WINCHESTER BAY: sturgeon, ocean coho

Fishing remains slow for sturgeon. Sport fishing for ocean coho opened June 22. Only adipose-clipped coho can be harvested. Winchester Bay is a popular port for ocean sportfishing and has been one of the more successful ports to date. Smallmouth bass angling is improving up river in the Umpqua.

RECREATIONAL SHELLFISH IS OPEN

The entire Oregon coast is open for recreational shellfishing. ALWAYS CHECK FOR HEALTH ADVISORIES by calling the Oregon Department of Agriculture's Shellfish line at 1-800-448-2474 for updates.

Razor clams and current status of particular areas

Crabbing has been a little slow but picked up recently. Crabbers are encouraged to return soft crabs with little meat back to the water. Crabbing from public docks or boat if available is a great opportunity for families to catch a delicious dinner. Kids often enjoy sorting out the smaller crab that can be abundant. Crabbing in Coos Bay is excellent for people out in the bay with boats and good from the docks. Public crabbing docks can be found in Winchester Bay, Bandon, Charleston, and Empire.

Digging for clams in Coos Bay has been excellent. A few of the popular digging areas are Charleston Flat, Pigeon Point, Fossil Point and Clam Island.

* ALWAYS CHECK FOR HEALTH ADVISORIES by calling the Oregon Department of Agriculture's Shellfish line at 1-800-448-2474 for updates.

* Razor clams and current status of particular areas

* Bay clams

SOUTHWEST ZONE HUNTING

OPEN: Bear, cougar, squirrel (portion of Rogue unit open year-round)

Help solve Glendale elk poaching case

Since October, several bull elk in the Glendale area have been found dead, their meat wasted. The reward in the elk poaching cases has now reached $17,000, with state and local OHA chapters, local landowners and businesses, and the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde contributing. If you have information, contact OSP at OSP at (541) 440-3403 or call the TIP hotline at 1-800-452-7888.

Saturday/Sunday, September 20-21 - Pheasant Hunt at Denman Wildlife Area

This pheasant hunt is designed for new hunters who want help developing the skills necessary to learn to hunt on their own. Day one will consist of gun handling instructions, safety talks, skeet shooting, and an afternoon pheasant hunt using dogs. Day two will consist of a morning pheasant hunt and lunch. Come on out and enjoy this unique and exciting event. This workshop is limited to 25 individuals. It will fill quickly. Contact: mark.newell@state.or.us or 503-947-6018. Cost: $40

DOUGLAS COUNTY

The statewide general COUGAR season is now open. Hunters can expect an average year. Cougars are abundant throughout with indicators pointing to stable or increasing numbers. Hunting cougar is a challenge because these animals are very secretive, but harvest success is greatest adjacent to private land with high deer populations using a predator call.

General BEAR season is now open. Hunters can expect an average year. The dry weather conditions will concentrate bears near streams where foraging will be better. Hunters should concentrate their efforts in the berry patches in early morning and late afternoon. Bear numbers are good with the highest numbers in the coast range, and with smaller populations in the Cascades. Successful bear hunters are reminded there is a mandatory check-in for all harvested bear within 10 days of harvest (see regulations for details).

COOS COUNTY

BEAR season is now open. Populations in Coos County are healthy with the heaviest concentration of bears being in the northwest portion of the county. Predator calling may be the best tactic for finding bears in the first weeks of the season. Bears generally feed heavily on berries in August on the coast but this year the berry crop seems to be late, likely due to the extended winter-like conditions we saw this year. Bears may not be using blackberry stands heavily in the first weeks of the General Fall Bear season. However, they will start feeding on blackberries once the berries begin to ripen. Early season hunters should look for the first ripening berries on southwest slopes. Don't forget check-in is now mandatory for successful bear hunters.

COUGAR season is now open. Cougars are abundant throughout with indicators pointing to stable or increasing numbers. Hunting cougar is a challenge because these animals are very secretive, but harvest success is greatest adjacent to private land with high deer populations using a predator call.

JACKSON, JOSEPHINE, CURRY COUNTIES

BEAR season is now open. Successful hunters are asked to bring bear skulls in thawed and with mouth propped open so biologists can collect and measure needed teeth and able to tag skulls. More information

General COUGAR season is now open. Cougar populations continue to be plentiful. Predator calling has become one of the best methods for hunters. Locate major ridge lines and rocky out-cropping as areas of travel within cougar home range. Hunters are reminded that they must bring their cougar into an ODFW office within 10 days to be checked and tagged, refer to regulations for details. Hunters are asked to bring in cougars thawed and mouths propped open for easier tissue sampling, teeth collection and tagging.

WESTERN GRAY SQUIRREL hunting is a great opportunity for young hunters to hone their hunting skills. A portion of the Rogue unit is open year round with no bag limit; refer to regulations for more detail. Squirrels are found throughout the Rogue unit with only a few hunters taking advantage of this hunting opportunity.

SOUTHWEST ZONE VIEWING

Road Trip Stop: Highway 38 to coast

Visit Dean Creek Elk Viewing Area along Highway 38 three miles east of Reedsport.

The Dean Creek Elk Viewing Area and the O.H. Hinsdale Interpretive Center are good stops. Visitors are treated to up-close views of Roosevelt elk, with the herd sometimes reaching as many as 120 elk. Mountains, meadows and marshes also are home to beaver, muskrat, mallards, Canada geese and great blue heron.

From Interstate 5: Take Hwy. 38 west to Reedsport and the viewing area. Nearby, the Pacific Ocean and the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area offer a variety of recreational opportunities.

EVENT

CALLING ALL CITIZEN SCIENTISTS TO SWIFT WATCH 2008: AUGUST 8, 9, 10

As summer draws to a close and the swifts have finished raising their young, these fascinating aerial acrobats begin to congregate in communal roosts prior to their migration in the fall. To raise awareness about swift conservation, the Driftwood Wildlife Association is doing a survey. Here is how it works: Keep your eyes to the skies at dusk and watch for areas where swifts are feeding. Look for a tall shaft, chimney or similar structure to locate where Chimney Swifts (central to east coast) or Vaux's Swift (Pacific coast) go to roost in your area. Over the weekend, observe the roost starting about 30 minutes before dusk and estimate the number of swifts that enter. When you have your number, e-mail us at DWA@austin.rr.com

Coos County

Migratory shore birds

Shore birds are abundant on beaches in bays. Most of the birds present now are either here for breeding or they are non-breeders. The best viewing can be found on mud flats along the edges of coastal bays or on coastal beaches. Many of these birds will move in and out of bays following the tide in search of food. Recently, long-billed curlews, whimbrels and Marbled godwits have been seen in Coos Bay and along nearby beaches. Also present are Western sandpipers and semipalmated plovers.

See a picture and hear the call of a marbled godwit on the Whatbird.com Web site.

Waterfowl broods have been visible for some time in local bays, rivers and lakes. Often Canada geese will congregate broods into one large group called gang broods. These groups can be fifty strong or more. Watch for them on mud flats at low tide in local bays.

Look for gamebird chicks along forest roads and fields

For a while after upland gamebird chicks hatch, they can be difficult to view because of their size and the fact that their mothers keep them hidden. Now, in many cases, they are large enough to see. In the Coast Range, you are most likely to see broods along forest roads or around the edges of clear cuts and agricultural fields.

California brown pelicans

California brown pelican numbers have decreased lately in Coos County. However, you can still see them along local beaches. For the most part, the birds that are here now are non-breeding birds.

Douglas County

Gamebirds

California and mountain quail, blue and ruffed grouse, wild turkey and pheasant young are common throughout the county. Coveys of California quail are common on the Umpqua Valley floor usually near blackberry cover and water. Mountain quail are common in mid elevations in regenerated forests.

Many blue and ruffed grouse and their young are found in mid- to high-elevation forested areas in local mountains.

Wild turkeys and their poults are very common throughout the Umpqua Valley usually in oak savannah habitat. Most pheasants are seen in central Douglas County associated with pastures and ranches.

Summer steelhead

This is a good time to see Summer 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.

Osprey chicks take flight

In Douglas County, osprey chicks are starting to fledge (leave nests). There are more than 250 nesting pairs in the county. Look for their classic large stick nest on a dead tree or electric pole near a river, creek or lake. Then, look for nestlings standing on the edge of the nest practicing their lift by flapping their wings just before they take flight.

Jackson and Josephine Counties

ODFW Denman Wildlife Area

Come visit our many ponds-much of the waterfowl are hatching their eggs and strings of geese are seen throughout the area. The area has several trails where some are set aside for foot traffic and others that are intended for horse travel. All of these trails provide great viewing opportunities along ponds and nesting structures, with great views of Table Rock. Table Rock provides great viewing of wildlife and wildflowers.

Ken Denman Wildlife Area is located at 1495 E. Gregory Road, Central Point.

WILLAMETTE ZONE

FISHING

Weekend fishing opportunities

* Good numbers of steelhead and summer salmon are still being caught on the Sandy River.

* August is a good time to target warmwater fish, including crappie, bluegill, perch and bass in ponds and sloughs and around structures in rivers.

* Interest in sturgeon fishing at Bonneville dam is picking up now that the sturgeon sanctuary closure below the dam has been lifted.

STOCKING SCHEDULE

Alton Baker Canoe Canal will be stocked with 600 one pound rainbow trout this week.

Leaburg Lake will be stocked with 1,500 legal-sized rainbow trout.

Clear Lake will be stocked with 3,000 legal-sized trout.

Faraday Lake will be stocked with 1,800 legal-sized trout.

North Fork Reservoir will be stocked with 3,500 legal-sized trout.

Small Fry Lake will be stocked with 300 legal-sized trout.

Most of the Willamette Valley pond stocking with trout is done for this season. Bass crappie, bluegill, and catfish are available in most of the valley floor ponds.

See South Willamette and North Willamette stocking schedules.

ALTON BAKER CANOE CANAL: rainbow trout

The South Willamette Watershed District continues to stock Alton Baker Canoe Canal with 600 one pounders every other week. Regulations allow five trout per day, 8-inch minimum. Use of bait allowed.

CLACKAMAS RIVER: steelhead, spring chinook

The first Clackamas River coho arrived this week, with three confirmed landings in the lower section of the river. According to Gary Waterhouse of Great American Tackle, one coho jack was taken on a corkie in the Bowling Alley drift near the mouth of the river and another was taken on a fly near Carver. The coho run usually gets into full swing after the first big rain in September, and while the arrival of a few strays during the month of August is not unusual, it could be an indication of a good run coming up this fall.

Summer steelhead season continues on the Clackamas River. As of Aug. 5, the Clackamas hatchery has recycled 449 summer steelhead. Twenty-seven steelhead were released at Riverside Park on July 29.

The summer salmon run is all but over for the year on the Clackamas. So far,

2,953 chinook have been collected at the Clackamas hatchery including 240 fish

that were trapped at PGE's North Fork dam.

Fishing conditions on the Clackamas remain challenging with reduced streamflow and higher water temperature characteristic of this time of year. However, at 61 degrees, the water is cooler than usual for August, which is good for angling. Steelhead, which are typically found in the tailouts, may be found this time of year seeking cooler waters in holes and underneath foliage along the banks. Anglers likely will have best success by fishing early, late and on cloudy days, using spinners, spoons, jigs, sand shrimp and cured roe.

DETROIT, GREEN PETER AND FOSTER RESERVOIRS: rainbow trout, chinook salmon

Detroit, Green Peter, and Foster reservoirs have all have been stocked numerous times with rainbow trout and are producing good catches. Bank fishing remains good as surface temperatures are still relatively cool. Detroit and Green Peter are also producing some good catches of 10-16 inch chinook, with some over 20 inches being taken. Kokanee catch has picked up with 12-15 inch fish being caught in Green Peter. Trolling at 20-25 feet with flashers and white corn or worms has been working well. Chinook salmon are considered trout in Detroit reservoir and are not included in the recent closure. In Green Peter Reservoir, chinook may be retained as part of the kokanee bag limit and are also not included in the closure. Foster reservoir was lowered to elevation 613 feet in late July for emergency spillway gate maintenance and inspections. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has since determined that it can safely raise the reservoir level to elevation 622 feet and maintain that elevation through the end of the summer recreation season. At these elevations, both the Sunnyside and Gedney boat ramps are useable. The Corps will draw water from Green Peter Reservoir to fill Foster, resulting in a lowering of Green Peter by about four feet. The Whitcomb Park and Thistle Creek boat ramps on Green Peter will remain usable following the refill operation at Foster. Click here for more information from the US Army Corp of Engineers.

EAGLE CREEK: steelhead

Fishing pressure on Eagle Creek has been low. 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 on private land.

FREEWAY LAKES (south of Albany): Largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill

Prospects should be good.

EE WILSON Pond: Largemouth bass

The pond will remain open to fishing until the end of September.

GOLD LAKE: brook trout, rainbow trout

Gold Lake opened to angling May 24. The access road is now open to vehicular traffic. Fly angling only with barbless hooks. Catch and release for rainbow trout. There is no limit on size or number of brook trout taken.

JUNCTION CITY POND: Largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill

Prospects should be good.

MOLALLA RIVER: steelhead

Some chinook might be found in the upper river, between Canby and Molalla this time of year, according to Mitch Webb of the NW Steelheaders Assn. Molalla chapter.

NORTH AND SOUTH SANTIAM: steelhead

Recycling of summer steelhead from the Minto trap will resume the latter part of next week. Recycling of summer steelhead from the Foster Dam trap continues at a steady pace. Summer steelhead counts at Willamette Falls have exceeded 14,000 fish. Spring chinook numbers remain very low and all streams above Willamette Falls, except for the Molalla River, are now closed to the retention of any chinook.

Stream flows in the Breitenbush and North Santiam rivers above Detroit Reservoir, and in Quartzville Creek above Green Peter Reservoir have receded, though they are still affected by snowmelt. The Breitenbush and North Santiam are scheduled to be stocked with trout this week.

SANDY RIVER: steelhead, spring chinook

Good numbers of summer steelhead and spring salmon are still being landed on the Sandy River. Bank fishermen are focused on steelhead and that will likely be their focus until fall salmon start to show up in early September. An occasional chrome-colored salmon is still being caught, however. Low streamflows in Cedar Creek is limiting returns to the Sandy Fish Hatchery. As of Aug. 5, only six chinook had made it to the hatchery. Because of the low water in Cedar Creek, fish are holding near its confluence with the Sandy and/or moving to cooler water upstream. Fishing conditions are difficult because of low stream flows and clear water, although that could soon change as glacial melt raises water turbidity, which is generally good for fishing in the Sandy. Prospects are fair to good on the middle section of the Sandy upstream to its confluence with the Salmon River. Look for steelhead in deeper water and underneath foliage along the banks. Anglers likely will have best success by fishing early, late and on cloudy days. A spot-check of anglers who reported catching fish indicted that cured roe was the offering of choice.

The Fish and Wildlife Commission adopted new sport fishing regulations for the Sandy River which moved the fishing deadline (or boundary) upstream to the mouth of the Salmon River (near Brightwood) beginning Jan. 1, 2008. There are reports of wild fish being caught and released in the newly opened section of river above Marmot Dam. There are few hatchery spring chinook and summer steelhead available above Cedar Creek which can be retained if caught, but there is also some opportunity for catch and release of wild fish for those interested in a more remote angling experience. All current fishing regulations in the lower river apply to the newly extended area.

WALTER WIRTH LAKE/WALLING POND: rainbow trout, largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, bullhead catfish

Last stocked with hatchery trout in early June. Prospects should be good for bass, crappie, bluegill and catfish.

WILLAMETTE RIVER: sturgeon, steelhead

Chinook salmon smaller than 24 inches in most upper Willamette reservoirs are considered trout under the special regulations and do not fall under the recent closure. The upper Willamette has been producing summer steelhead recently.

The river below Willamette Falls (including Multnomah Channel), closed for retention of spring chinook Monday, May 12. The river below the Falls is still open for steelhead, shad and other species.

Like the Columbia above Wauna, action for sturgeon is picking up on the Willamette. Fishing for crappie and smallmouth bass is good, and should get better as temperatures increase. Temperature has been steadily rising and is now in the mid-60s. August is a good time to try for warm water fish on the Willamette River and sloughs. Available species include white crappie, bluegill, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, brown bullhead and black crappie. Look for these fish around docks, pilings and other structures.

The Oregon/Washington Compact adopted the following rules at the July 24 Joint State Hearing for the sturgeon sport fishery above Wauna power lines (RM 40) upstream to Bonneville Dam, including all adjacent Washington tributaries, and the lower Willamette River (including the Multnomah Channel) upstream to Willamette Falls for 2008:

* Allow the retention of white sturgeon four days per week on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday Jan. 1 through Dec. 31, 2008.

* Prohibit the retention of sturgeon three days per week on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday.

* Retention of green sturgeon is prohibited as per permanent regulations.

* Daily and annual catch limits listed in the 2008 Oregon Sport Regulations pamphlet remain in effect.

Bank fishing for sturgeon can be found at Meldrum Bar and at the wall in downtown Oregon City as well as Kelly Point Park at the mouth of the Willamette River. Sturgeon anglers have been using frozen smelt, herring, or sand shrimp as effective bait.

South Willamette Watershed District ponds and reservoirs are beginning to provide good warmwater fishing opportunities. Local area ponds to consider include Garden Lake (Creswell), Cottage Grove Ponds (Cottage Grove), and Delta Ponds (Eugene). Area reservoirs including Cottage Grove, Dorena and Fall Creek will also provide warmwater opportunities at these temperatures.

Anglers are advised to contact pertinent land managers (USFS, BLM, resort owners etc) when planning high elevation fishing excursions as access may be limited by snow.

WILLAMETTE ZONE HUNTING

OPEN: Cougar and bear

EVENTS

Saturday, August 16 - A Day at the Range-Eagle Creek Gun Club (BOW event-Becoming an Outdoor Woman)

This event is designed for beginners. There will be three venues on firearms: rifles, hand guns, and muzzle loaders; and one archery venue. Participants will have a chance to learn how to safely handle, and fire a variety of firearms and shoot a bow. This is a hands on workshop, all firearms, ammunition, and lunch will be provided.

Eagle Creek, OR. Cost is $60. Contact: mark.newell@state.or.us or 503-947-6018

August 16-17, Oregon Waterfowl Festival, Polk County Fairgrounds.

Cougar n The general statewide cougar season is now open. This time of year, cougar may be much harder to locate and hunters will need to rely more on calls to bring a cougar into the open. Continue to use predator calls that mimic the bleat of a fawn or elk calf or the distress sounds of a rodent but also consider calls that can imitate the territorial sounds of a cougar. In the South Willamette Watershed cougars can be found throughout the area with the exception of the Willamette Valley Floor. Hunters looking for the best chance of success should scout near concentrations of deer and elk to locate fresh sign. Once fresh cougar sign is located hunters have a variety of hunting options to choose from. Using predator calls that mimic the bleat of a fawn or elk calf may lure a cougar into view and hunters should always be ready to try a variety of sounds if their standard call is not producing.

Fall Black Bear

The general fall black bear season opens on Aug. 1. In the fall, black bears are often found feeding on wild berries or eating insects and grubs from rotting logs. Berries and logs can be found in regenerating clear-cuts or burned areas. The Himalayan blackberries and huckleberries are not yet ripe. The bears will feed heavy on these berries when they ripen. For now, hunters should look for areas with ripe native blackberries or raspberries. Most successful bear hunters glass areas where they find sign of foraging bears. Some hunters have had success using predator calls.

FERN RIDGE WILDLIFE AREA

All units at Fern Ridge Wildlife Area are closed to hunting but open daily for public use. Visitors are reminded that dogs must be kept on leash at all times. One section of levee in the western portion of the Fisher Butte unit is posted closed to provide wildlife sanctuary. Contact the wildlife area hdq. at 541-935-2591 if you have any questions. Enjoy your visit!

EE WILSON WILDLIFE AREA

All hunting is now over for the year but fishing remains open through the end of September. Remember that dogs are required to be leashed inside the wildlife area boundary.

ODFW will host a public meeting July 30, 7:00 n 9:00 pm at their Corvallis office, 7118 NE Vandenberg Ave., to present and get public comments on the draft management plan for EE Wilson. Hunters, anglers wildlife viewers, and others that use the area are encouraged to attend.

WILLAMETTE ZONE VIEWING

Road Trip Stop: Hwy 126: Eugene to Florence

Your first stop is 15 miles west of Eugene at the south end of Fern Ridge Reservoir where you can see osprey, egrets, purple martins and waterfowl. You can stay here for a day of fishing, hiking and picnicking or continue on to the Coast.

At Florence, stop at the jetties that jut a half-mile into the ocean on both sides of the Siuslaw River's ocean entrance and look for western sandpipers and shorebirds.

For other outdoor recreation ideas in Florence, visit the city's Web site, http://www.florenceoregon.net/recreation.htm

Road Trip Stop: Hwy 101 Florence north to Yachats

Thirteen miles north of Florence, stop at Heceta Head State Park located in a cove at the mouth of Cape Creek. There are picnic tables sheltered from the wind and a great view of the ocean. A short trail leads to the historic Heceta Head lighthouse and lighthouse keeper's house. A recently-completed trail gives you a spectacular view of the coast north to Cape Perpetua.

Heceta Head trail is part of a 7-mile network. Trails of varying difficulty feature beach and wildlife viewing areas. Wildlife refuge islands feature a view of puffins, cormorants, gulls, and other bird nesting areas. Sea lions and whales can be seen from the beach and cliff-top lighthouse.

No Road Trips Planned? Walk There!

50 treks in and around Portland and Vancouver: Explore regional neighborhoods and discover things that you never expected. The walking guide leads you through regional history and fresh-air exercise at a pace that lets you stop and smell the roses. Includes lots of nature walks. Pick up a free copy at many Kaiser Permanente Medical Offices, the Washington County Visitor's Association, the Wilsonville and Oregon City city halls and many more places. Check o line for a complete list or to download information on walks. shttp://www.oregonmetro.gov/index.cfm/go/by.web/id=27574

Corvallis Area

EE Wilson Wildlife Area.

There are lots of deer, shorebirds and waterfowl to see on the Wildlife Area-look for goose, mallard, hooded merganser and wood duck broods. Wildlife viewing remains good for waterfowl and shorebirds. Neotropical migrants in the area include yellow-breasted chat, American goldfinch, various swallows, warblers, thrush, kinglet and common yellowthroat.

Spring and summer are great times for birdwatching migrants as well as waterfowl including mallards, wood duck, hooded merganser, western Canada goose. Snipe and other shorebirds are periodically seen.

Note: Dogs are required to be on a leash inside the wildlife area boundary. Rifles and pistols are prohibited year round.

Find directions to EE Wilson Wildlife Area.

Eugene Area

Delta Ponds

There are lots of birds at Delta Ponds in the summer including great blue heron. Viewers can also observe native western pond turtles as they soak up the sun basking on logs. The best time to observe turtles is early to mid-mornings on sunny days. The turtles will retreat back into the water if the temperature is too hot.

Please try to observe the turtles from a distance to avoid disturbing them. Unfortunately, viewers will likely see Red-eared Sliders in addition to the Western Pond Turtles. The sliders are a non-native invasive species that compete with our native turtles for habitat and food. For information about native and non native turtles, visit ODFW's Web site.

For more information, visit the City of Eugene Parks Web site.

Fern Ridge Wildlife Area

Fern Ridge Wildlife Area is open daily for public use providing great wildlife viewing opportunities. (One section of levee in the western portion of the Fisher Butte unit is posted closed to provide wildlife sanctuary.)

Observant visitors may catch a glimpse of black tailed deer and furbearers including beaver and otter, mink, red fox and coyotes. Some of the unusual and special bird species to be on the lookout for include white pelicans, black terns, band-tailed pigeons, yellow-headed blackbirds, osprey and bald eagles. This is a great time of year to look for waterfowl, shore birds, wading birds, songbirds, raptors, reptiles, and amphibians.

There is an elevated viewing platform in the Fisher Butte unit just south of Royal Avenue that is open year-round. A second viewing platform is under construction and scheduled for installation this summer. The new viewing platform will be located 1/4 mile north of the Fisher Butte unit parking lot on Hwy 126.

Visitors are reminded that dogs must be kept on leash at all times. Visitors are also cautioned that there have been recent vehicle break-ins at Fern Ridge and in local parks, so please secure your valuables before departing your vehicle. Parking areas are located along Highway 126, Nielson Road, Cantrell Road, Territorial Road, and Clear Lake Road. Contact the wildlife area headquarters, (541) 935-2591 if you have any questions.

Directions to Fern Ridge Wildlife Area.

Sauvie Island

Sauvie Island Wildlife Area-time to pick blackberries!

Nesting season is winding down and now it is time to start looking for a variety of song birds, also shorebirds starting their fall migration and juvenile bald eagles and great blue heron taking their first flights. The best viewing opportunities are at Coon Point, Oak Island Nature Trail and Rentenaar Road.

Hikers are reminded to use their insect repellent before starting the walk to the Warrior Rock Lighthouse. Dogs are welcome on the Wildlife Area but must be kept on leash at all times.

Blackberry season is starting so please call the Sauvie Island ODFW office (503) 621-3488 ext 0 to obtain your permit.

A parking permit is required for the Sauvie Island Wildlife Area and can be purchased at ODFW Point of Sale vendors or at the Sauvie Island ODFW office, Monday through Friday during office hours.

Directions to Sauvie Island Wildlife Area

CENTRAL ZONE

FISHING

Weekend Fishing Opportunities

* Fishing off the mouth of the Deschutes should be excellent, as large numbers of steelhead have been counted crossing The Dalles Dam.

* Kingsley Reservoir has recently been stocked with excess hatchery steelhead.

* Anglers are reporting good success on the Fall, Metolius and Crooked rivers.

ODFW adopted temporary rules to allow sport anglers to fish for fall chinook in the Deschutes River beginning August 1. The following rules apply to these fisheries:

Deschutes River: The Deschutes River from the mouth at the I-84 bridge upstream to Sherars Falls is open to angling for trout, steelhead, chinook salmon from August 1, 2008 to October 31, 2008. The catch limit for chinook salmon is any two adults, and five jacks per day. Anglers may use bait from Sherars Falls downstream to the upper railroad trestle. Catch limits and restrictions applying to trout, steelhead, and coho remain unchanged from those listed in the 2008 Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations for Area 1 of the Deschutes River.

ANTELOPE RESERVOIR: rainbow trout

Reservoir stocked with 2500 catchable rainbow trout. However, an illegally introduced population of bullhead catfish has overpopulated leading to a reduced trout fishing opportunity.

BIG LAVA LAKE: rainbow trout

The bite at Big Lava is fair. Overall Big Lava has been producing extraordinary catches for anglers this season. The rainbow trout seen in the creel are ranging in size from 12 to 20 inches.

CLEAR LAKE: rainbow trout

Clear Lake was recently stocked, and should provide excellent fishing opportunity.

CRANE PRAIRIE RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, brook trout, kokanee, largemouth bass

Angling over the weekend was reported to be fair. While not catching large numbers anglers are catching some very nice rainbow trout. Angling is expected to pick up as the water levels continue to drop reservoir.

CRESCENT LAKE: brown trout, kokanee, rainbow trout

Anglers are reporting good action for kokanee running 12 to 16 inches. Some nice rainbow trout are also being caught.

CROOKED RIVER BELOW BOWMAN DAM: redband trout and mountain whitefish

Anglers are currently reporting above average success using sub-surface flies and spinning gear. The Crooked is currently flowing at 230 cfs. ODFW and OSU have initiated a radio telemetry study on redband trout and whitefish, and anglers are reminded that radio-tagged fish cannot be legally harvested. To determine if a fish is radio-tagged, anglers should check for an eight-inch wire antenna protruding from the rear of both redband and mountain whitefish. A sample of redband trout and mountain whitefish are also tagged with a numbered floy tag protruding from the back. Anglers who later catch a trout or whitefish with a floy tag are encouraged to release the fish after recording the tag number, fish length and location caught. Anglers can send the information to ODFW at (541) 447-5111 ext. 24 or michael.r.harrington@state.or.us.

CULTUS LAKE: lake trout, rainbow trout

No recent reports.

DAVIS LAKE: redband trout, largemouth bass

No recent reports. Please note Davis Lake is restricted to fly angling only.

DESCHUTES RIVER:

Mouth to Warm Springs: steelhead, trout, fall Chinook upstream to Sherars Falls

Steelhead fishing on the Deschutes from Max Canyon downstream to the mouth has been good and is expected to get even better. Anglers are reporting good success from all the usual Deschutes steelhead fishing techniques such as spinners, plugs, and flies. Anglers are not currently reporting many steelhead from Max Canyon upstream to Sherars Fall, but expect that to change soon as more fish move into the river and further upstream. Anglers are encouraged to check the Sherars Falls Salmon and Steelhead Trap counts.

Trout anglers report good success early in the morning, and late in the evening in the area upstream from Maupin.

Steelhead fishing off the mouth of the Deschutes River has been excellent. Successful anglers generally troll diving plugs in the Deschutes plume where it enters into the Columbia.

Lake Billy chinook to Benham Falls: rainbow trout, brown trout

Angling in this reach is reportedly good for both rainbow trout and brown trout.

Benham Falls to Wickiup Reservoir: rainbow trout, brown trout

No recent reports.

EAST LAKE: rainbow trout, brown trout, kokanee, Atlantic salmon

East Lake anglers are reporting catches of rainbow trout, kokanee and brown trout. Fly anglers are reporting that the fish are mostly feeding on midges, but will hit calibaetis nymphs and woolly buggers (in addition to chironomid nymphs). No adult calibaetis hatches were noted, but likely will happen in next few weeks.

ELK LAKE: Brook trout, kokanee

No recent reports.

FALL RIVER: rainbow trout

Anglers are reporting good to fair fishing for rainbow trout.

FROG LAKE:

Due to accessibility issue hatchery fish that were allocated to be stocked in Frog Lake were stocked in nearby Clear Lake.

HAYSTACK RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, brown trout

Anglers reporting success fishing for trout, kokanee, and bullhead catfish. Large mouth bass of 3-5 lb. are also present in the reservoir.

HOOD RIVER: summer steelhead, winter steelhead

Summer steelhead fishing on the Hood has been good when cooler air temperatures are present and the river clears the glacial water slightly. Anglers have been reporting success when the river clears slightly with 1-3 feet of visibility.

Find out how many fish are being captured at the Powerdale Dam trap.

HOSMER LAKE: Atlantic salmon, brook trout

Some good reports of anglers catching Atlantics in the 10 inch to 11 inch range. Hosmer is a fly angling only lake providing a unique opportunity for Atlantic salmon. Hosmer also provides good opportunity for brook trout.

KINGSLEY RESERVOIR: rainbow trout

Kingsley was recently stocked, and should provide excellent fishing opportunity. Adult excess hatchery steelhead from Hood River have recently been stocked.

LAKE BILLY CHINOOK: bull trout, brown trout, rainbow trout, kokanee, smallmouth bass

Fishing for bull trout and kokanee has been slow.

LAURANCE LAKE: rainbow trout

Laurance has been stocked twice and should provide good opportunity for rainbow and cutthroat trout. Anglers are reminded that only fin-clipped trout may be kept, and only artificial flies and lures may be used.

LITTLE LAVA LAKE: rainbow trout, brook trout

Fly anglers are reporting fair numbers of rainbow trout being caught.

LOST LAKE: rainbow trout

Lost Lake was finally cleared of all snow and recently stocked. Anglers should find good numbers of hungry trout.

METOLIUS RIVER: redband trout, bull trout

Reports of some fair angling for redband trout and bull trout from Allingham Bridge downstream.

NORTH TWIN LAKE: rainbow trout

There is good opportunity for 8 to 12-inch rainbow with potential for larger fish up to 18 inches.

OCHOCO RESERVOIR: rainbow trout

Reports of good angling for rainbow trout.

ODELL LAKE: kokanee, lake trout, rainbow trout

Anglers are reporting good success for kokanee and lake trout. Those anglers targeting kokanee should be on the water at daybreak for best success. The kokanee are hanging a little deeper due to the warmer water temperatures. Please note that all bull trout need to be released unharmed. Anglers are encouraged to take time to learn how to differentiate between lake trout and bull trout. Please check with the Forest Service Crescent Ranger Station for information on campgrounds.

PAULINA LAKE: brown trout, rainbow trout, kokanee

Anglers are reporting good catches of kokanee with fish ranging from 10 to 13 inches. Anglers fishing shoreline areas are catching some nice browns and there are also reports of fair rainbow trout catches.

PINE HOLLOW RESERVOIR: rainbow trout

The reservoir has recently been stocked and should provide good action. Anglers have reported good catches of stocked trout with many of them large brood trout.

PRINEVILLE RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, black crappie, bass

Anglers are reporting fair success for rainbow trout fishing deep, and black crappie anglers are reporting consistent success.

ROCK CREEK RESERVOIR: rainbow trout

Angler reports have indicated excellent catches on recently stocked fish with many large brood trout.

SIMTUSTUS LAKE: rainbow trout, bull trout

No reports from the past weekend. Legal-sized rainbow trout were stocked before opening weekend and will continue to be stocked throughout the summer. A tribal angling permit is required in addition to a state angling license to fish in the lake. The bag limit is five trout per day including kokanee. Some bull trout are available. Bull trout limit is one fish with a 24-inch minimum as in Lake Billy chinook.

SOUTH TWIN LAKE: rainbow trout

The bite has slowed a little but anglers are still catching a fair number of fish. South Twin's nice shoreline makes the lake a good place to take young kids to fish.

SUTTLE LAKE: kokanee, brown trout

No recent reports.

TAYLOR LAKE: rainbow trout

No recent reports. Summertime temperatures are likely limiting success on rainbow trout but largemouth bass and bluegill should be readily available and aggressive.

WALTON LAKE: rainbow trout

Stocked with large, catchable rainbows in July.

WICKIUP RESERVOIR: kokanee, brown trout, rainbow trout, largemouth bass

Anglers are reporting catches of brown trout and rainbow trout in the Deschutes arm and the Davis arm. Please note that the angling regulation for the Deschutes River arm upstream of the channel buoy located in the proximity of the West South Twin boat ramp is flies and lures only through the remainder of the season.

CENTRAL ZONE HUNTING

OPEN: Bear and cougar

PRINEVILLE/OCHOCO WILDLIFE DISTRICT

Continued hot temperatures and dry conditions has heightened fire danger concerns. Recreational users should check with the Ochoco National Forest and Prineville BLM regarding access and camping restrictions in effect to address fire danger. Motorized access restrictions associated with the South Boundary Travel Management Area (TMA) in the Ochoco unit remain in effect year-round. Maps are available at portal signs as you enter the TMA, or from local ODFW and forest service offices.

BEAR and COUGAR season are now open. Remember bear check-in is now mandatory. Best opportunities for both species will be in the Ochoco National Forest portions of the Ochoco and Grizzly units.

ANTELOPE: Hunters should be actively scouting for antelope and checking watering areas for use by antelope and water availability. Conditions are dry and hunters should consult with the BLM for possible vehicle access restrictions due to fire danger.

GROUND SQUIRRELS and marmots are active and still offering recreational hunting. These animals occur in greatest numbers on private agricultural and ranch lands where permission from landowners is needed.

THE DALLES WILDLIFE DISTRICT

BEAR and COUGAR hunting is now open. For hunters wishing to pursue COUGAR, the best opportunity will be within the Deschutes or John Day canyons, where hunters can glass open hillsides and utilize predator calls to locate these elusive animals.

Hunters in search of BEARS should focus their efforts in areas of available forage, whether high elevation berry fields or forested sections adjacent to orchard crops. Bears are generally active during the early morning or late evening periods. Predator calls can also be used, with a fawn bleat being one of the most effective calls.

Those wishing to pursue COYOTE will find the best success near agricultural lands. Be sure to ask permission to hunt private lands.

California GROUND SQUIRRELS, or grey diggers, are generally found in rocky, open habitats and the best opportunities are found on private ground near agricultural fields. Limited opportunities exist on the lower elevation forest service and state ground in the White River unit. Be sure to ask permission to hunt on private land.

CENTRAL ZONE VIEWING

Road Trip: From Bend, 11 miles south on Hwy. 97

Visit the Newberry National Volcanic Monument, south of Bend-it is a trip you will long remember. People come from all over the world to view Newberry Volcano's remarkable and easily accessible volcanic features, shaped by eruptions spanning the past half-million years. Within the Newberry National Volcanic Monument, one finds some of the most unique attractions in the nation. Cinder cones, pumice cones, lava flows, including obsidian flows, Lava Cast Forest, caves, lakes, streams, and waterfalls all attract visitors to this marvelous area. Interpretive programs are offered June 25 to September 14 at Lava Lands Visitor Center. Check at the information desk for current schedule. Lava River Cave is a self-guided exploration of a mile-long lava tube. For more information, http://www.fs.fed.us/r6/centraloregon/newberrynvm/general.shtml

Road Trip Stop: Hwy. 20 from points west to Bend

Pull off at the Metolius Fish Overlook to stretch you legs and enjoy a picture perfect view. See the Metolius River surge from the dry ground and enjoy a variety of birds including the magnificent osprey.

Turn left (north) off Hwy, 20 at the Camp Sherman/Metolius River sign onto Forest Road 14 for 4.3 miles to signed entrance to Metolius Spring.

Summer cleaning is for the birds

This is a good time of year to clean up your bird feeders and sterilize them with a 10% bleach solution. With the warm weather, hummingbird feeders should be checked regularly and sugar solution changed when it appears cloudy.

The Woodpeckers of Summer

Visitors and residents in Deschutes County have an opportunity to view some of the state's most sought after woodpeckers. Look in recent burn areas for Lewis's woodpecker, namesake of explorer Meriwether Lewis-a dark-winged bird with pink belly and red face. Shevlin Park near Bend also provides a good opportunity to view the species.

White-headed woodpeckers along with olive-sided flycatchers and several species of warblers are regularly seen at Cold Springs Campground, four miles west of Sisters on OR 242.

See photos and hear calls:

Lewis's woodpecker, http://www.birds.cornell.edu/bfl/speciesaccts/lewwoo.html

White-headed woodpecker, http://identify.whatbird.com/obj/185/_/White-headed_Woodpecker.aspx

Watch Raptors Hunt

Young raptors are on the wing in Central Oregon. Look for red-tailed, Swainson's and ferruginous hawks in agricultural areas-especially newly-cut alpha fields-and watch these fascinating birds hunt. Go to Fort Rock State Natural Area and Christmas Valley, about 70 and 90 miles southeast of Bend, respectively, to see the action. Agency Plains, north of Madras, is also a good viewing site

Bend Area

Visit Pilot Butte Park in Bend to see large flocks of pinyon jays. The park is an old cinder cone that provides several hiking trails through stands of juniper and sage. Best viewing is in the juniper rangeland. The view from the top of the butte is worth the trip-a panorama of the high desert. More information about the park, http://www.oregonstateparks.org/park_42.php

PRINEVILLE AREA

Prineville Reservoir Wildlife Management Area

The Juniper Bass Campground remains closed due to the fire that occurred two weeks ago. The main access road and other campgrounds in the wildlife area are operating normally.

Broods of Canadian Geese and waterfowl are visible with the best viewing opportunities at the eastern end of the Wildlife Area along the shoreline. This is a good time to observe fledgling osprey, bald eagles, golden eagles, red-tail hawks and other young raptors from nests in the area. A variety of shore birds, including great blue herons, killdeer, phalaropes, and others are active and visible along the shorelines. Those with a canoe or kayak will be rewarded with wonderful viewing opportunities. Motorized traffic within the management area is restricted to the north side access road and designated routes into dispersed camping sites.

In addition to wildlife viewing, the management area offers hiking with wonderful scenic views of the Crooked River and reservoir.

For directions, visit ODFW's Web site.

Lower Deschutes Wildlife Area

Many different species frequent the Deschutes Canyon at this time of year with opportunities to view a wide variety of waterbirds, passerines, deer and bighorn sheep.

Bighorn sheep are a common site in the canyon. One of the most popular spots to view Bighorn rams is across the river from Jones campground, along the Mack's canyon access road. Springs along this stretch of river provide water and green forage for sheep during hot summer days.

Waterfowl broods are a common occurrence now throughout the canyon, as are osprey, kingfishers, great blue herons, and Bullock's Orioles.

ODFW's Lower Deschutes Wildlife Area is located in The Dalles. Directions and more information about the Lower Deschutes Wildlife Area.

White River Wildlife Area

Blacktail does are now starting to travel about with their fawns, making this a great time to see young deer. Visitors looking for fawns should focus their efforts in the forested sections of the area, especially at dawn or dusk.

Visitors to the area can also see a wide variety of birds, including Lewis' Woodpeckers, Cooper's hawks and Pileated Woodpecker's.

Hood River Valley

The Historic Columbia River Highway provides excellent views of the Columbia River gorge, as well as opportunities to view many different bird and mammal species. For information on the Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail, visit http://www.oregonstateparks.org/park_155.php

Visit the upper Hood River Valley. High mountain lakes along the east slope of the Cascades provide excellent opportunities for a variety of wildlife viewing. For a guide to birding trails throughout the cascades, visit the Mount Hood Loop Web site.

SOUTHEAST ZONE

FISHING

Weekend fishing opportunities

* Trout fishing is good on several area lakes and reservoirs, including Heart and Grande Ronde Lakes, and Holbrook and Cottonwood Reservoirs.

* Fishing on the lower Owyhee Rivers remains good for rainbow and brown trout.

ANA RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout, hybrid bass

Ana Reservoir is open all year long for rainbow trout and hybrid bass angling. The reservoir is at full capacity. Fishing has been good for rainbow trout. The use of live fish for bait is prohibited.

ANA RIVER: hatchery rainbow trout

Ana River is a great place to fish. Angling for rainbow trout has been good. The river level has dropped to 30-35 cfs and will remain at this level until the first week in September. Rainbow trout in this river can be very spooky so stealth is required. Bait angling is allowed and productive. Tui chub and pit roach are abundant in Ana River so large lures and flies mimicking minnows can be very successful.

ANTHONY LAKE: rainbow trout

Lake has been stocked with legal-sized trout. Fishing has been good.

BALM CREEK RESERVOIR: trout, bass

Trout fishing is fair. Bass are small.

BEULAH RESERVOIR: redband trout, hatchery rainbow trout, whitefish, bull trout

Inflow into the reservoir continues to drop. It varied from approximately 45 to 49 cfs from July 30 to August 4. The reservoir water level was 45 percent full on August 3. Water level in the reservoir is expected to hit minimums as early as mid-September. Angling in the reservoir is poor for rainbow trout and slow for crappie.

BIG ROCK RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout

Last year the reservoir was reduced to a small pool by late summer. Freezing temperatures are suspected of having winter killed any hold over fish. Hatchery trout, fingerling size, were stocked in the reservoir this spring. Trout stocked as fingerlings will not be of harvestable size until next year.

BLITZEN RIVER: trout

Mainstem Blitzen and tributaries (except Little Blitzen) have a two fish trout bag limit from May 24 through October 31. The Little Blitzen is a catch and release fishery year-round. Angling is fair to good for 10 to 16-inch redband. Flow fluctuated between approximately 39 and 45 cfs from July 28 through August 4.

BULLY CREEK RESERVOIR: bass, white crappie, yellow perch, catfish, and trout.

Water level in the reservoir continues to drop. The reservoir was 32 percent full on August 3. The boat ramp is still useable as of August 1. Water level in the reservoir is expected to hit minimums as early as early September. Angling is slow.

BURNS POND: trout, bass

Angling should be slow to fair for rainbow trout.

BURNT RIVER: trout

Was stocked with legal trout above Unity Reservoir.

CAMPBELL/DEADHORSE LAKES: hatchery rainbow trout

These lakes were stocked with legal and trophy-sized rainbow trout in late June and early July. Access to these lakes was closed on July 28 by the USFS.

CHICKAHOMINY RESERVOIR: trout

Angling is slow for 12 to 19 inch rainbow trout. Water temperature is high and the reservoir has an extensive algae bloom. Some fish mortality has occurred.

CHEWAUCAN RIVER: redband trout, largemouth bass

Angling has been good for largemouth bass and brown bullhead in the lower river. ODFW surveys found bass up to 6 lb in the reservoir and many bass were 12 inches or larger. Angling is good for redband trout above Paisley. River levels are dropping and water clarity is good.

CHRISTMAS VALLEY GOLF COURSE POND: hatchery rainbow trout

Fish are still being caught in Christmas Valley Pond. Five hundred legal-sized rainbow trout were stocked in this small pond for Free Fishing weekend events. Target trout by boat in the deep portions of the lake at the South end. Ask permission for access to the lake at the Christmas Valley Parks and Rec office located next to the golf course lodge. Few trout will survive the high water temperatures in the pond later this summer.

COTTONWOOD MEADOWS: rainbow trout, brook trout

Angling is good for rainbow trout, but slow for brook trout. Bait fishing has been productive, as has fly fishing during the morning and early evening hatches.

COTTONWOOD RESERVOIR: native redband trout

Fishing for native redband has improved, especially near the dam face at the reservoir outlet. The reservoir has been murky; bait fishing has been more productive lately.

CRUMP LAKE: black crappie, native redband trout, yellow perch, brown bullhead

Crappie fishing has been slow. Access is limited by private ownership. One primitive boat ramp is available on the west side of the lake from the Plush-Adel Road. Crump Lake went dry last summer. Few fish are expected to be caught in the lake during the 2008 fishing season. Boating can be hazardous.

DELINTMENT LAKE: trout

Fair angling for rainbow trout. Extensive aquatic vegetation makes angling somewhat challenging.

DOG LAKE: largemouth bass, yellow perch, black crappie, brown bullhead

Dog Lake is closed to the retention of native, redband trout. This lake is not stocked with hatchery trout. Trophy bass fishing opportunities are available here. Recent sampling by ODFW found good numbers of 8-inch yellow perch and nice-sized bluegill in the lake. Bass were not numerous, but some fish over 3 pounds were observed. Four to six-inch bass were stocked in the lake last week. These fish will be available for future angling opportunities in 2009 and 2010.

DREWS RESERVIOR: native redband trout, largemouth bass, channel catfish, brown bullhead, yellow perch, black crappie

Access is open to the reservoir and boat ramp. Catch rates been good for both bass and crappie. The reservoir has dropped a few feet recently. Boat with care; watch for fences and rock jacks submerged in the reservoir near the shoreline.

DUNCAN RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout

Angling is fair for rainbow trout as water temperatures increase. Bait angling can be good along the shoreline.

FISH LAKE (Baker County): rainbow trout, brook trout

Lake has been stocked with legal rainbow trout. Fishing is very good for rainbow and brook trout.

FISH LAKE (Steens Mountain): brook trout, rainbow trout

Rainbow trout were stocked the week of June 23. Angling has been good for both rainbow and brook trout. No report on what gear has been most effective.

FOURMILE LAKE: rainbow trout, lake trout, kokanee

Fourmile Lake is accessible. The boat ramp might still be blocked by drift wood. Angling should be good for lake trout and rainbow trout. Large kokanee up to 16 inches are available.

GERBER RESERVOIR: crappie, yellow perch, brown bullhead and largemouth bass

Angling has been good for crappie. Yellow perch and bullhead can be caught off the bank at the campground areas. Large mouth bass are also available.

GRANDE RONDE LAKE: rainbow and brook trout

Lake has been stocked with legal rainbow trout. Fishing is good for rainbow and brook trout.

HAINES POND: rainbow trout

For best results, fish in the morning or evening.

HART LAKE: black crappie, native redband trout, yellow perch, brown bullhead

Crappie angling has slowed but fish are still being caught along the shoreline. The lake is very shallow, and high winds can make boating hazardous.

HEART LAKE: hatchery rainbow trout and kokanee

Angling is very good for rainbow trout and fair for kokanee. Most kokanee are fewer than eight inches. It is difficult to fish from the shore because of the aquatic vegetation around the lake. Fisherman have been casting out from the shoreline beyond the weed line, and using bait on the bottom to attract both rainbow trout and kokanee.

HIGGINS RESERVOIR: trout

Fishing has been good. Access is walk in only. Has not been stocked for two years due to access issues.

HOLBROOK RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout

Angling is good for stocked legal rainbow trout. Catch rates of trophy sizes rainbow trout have slowed. All methods of angling seem to have some success at this reservoir.

HWY 203 POND: trout, bass, bluegill

Has been stocked several times with legal-sized rainbow trout. Fishing is fair. Fish in the morning or evening for best results.

JUNIPER LAKE: cutthroat trout

The lake is nearly dry.

KRUMBO RESERVOIR: trout and largemouth bass

Angling is slow to fair for 16 to 19-inch rainbow trout and fair for 12 to 16-inch largemouth bass. A variety of gear has been effective. There is good bank access near the boat ramp and on the southwest shoreline. There is also an accessible fishing platform near the boat ramp.

KLAMATH AND AGENCY LAKES: redband trout

Angling for redband trout has been fair. Algae is beginning to proliferate which will reduce the aesthetics of angling in most parts of the lake. Trolling lures mimicking minnows has been good.

KLAMATH RIVER: native rainbow- redband trout

The Klamath River from JC Boyle Dam to the JC Boyle Powerhouse is very good for catching redband trout. Most redband trout in this section range from 6-12 inches. The Klamath River below the Powerhouse is fair for redband trout 10-14 inches.

LAKE OF THE WOODS: hatchery rainbow trout, kokanee, hatchery brown trout, yellow perch, brown bullhead, largemouth bass, crappie, and smallmouth bass

Angling for hatchery rainbow and kokanee has been excellent. Angling for brown trout has been fair.

LOFTON RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout

The reservoir was stocked with legal and trophy rainbow trout. Hatchery trout are still being caught in good numbers, most in the eight to 10-inch size range. Angling from the shore has become difficult with the numerous tui chub and aquatic vegetation growing on the north and east shorelines. Fishing from the dam, dock, and south side of the lake allows the angler to access deeper water and fewer tui chub are caught in these areas. Fishing from a boat to access the deeper parts of the lake is also recommended.

LOST RIVER: brown bullhead, yellow perch, largemouth bass, Sacramento perch, pumpkinseed sunfish, bluegill

Angling is good for warmwater fish. Brown bullhead are being caught at Crystal Springs Park at a good rate. Angling for yellow perch is good.

LUCKY RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout

Angling is slow for rainbow trout as water temperatures increase. Lucky Reservoir has good populations of trout but catch rates are low due to the turbid water.

MALHEUR RIVER (Warm Springs Reservoir downstream to South Fork Malheur River): redband trout and hatchery rainbow trout

On August 3, discharge below Warm Springs Dam averaged 457 cfs. Angling for trout is slow.

MALHEUR RIVER (from the South Fork Malheur River near Riverside, downstream to Gold Creek): redband trout and hatchery rainbow trout

On August 3, discharge below Juntura was approximately 801 cfs. Angling for trout is slow.

MALHEUR RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout

Water level continues to drop. The end of the boat ramp was visible on August 1. Water level in the reservoir will come close to minimums late in the irrigation season. Angling for rainbow trout has slowed as water temperatures increased.

MALHEUR RIVER, NORTH FORK: redband trout, whitefish, and bull trout

No recent angling report. In past years, stream flows have dropped and fishing has improved. Remember to release bull trout.

MALHEUR RIVER, MIDDLE FORK: redband trout, brook trout, and bull trout

No recent angling report. In past years, stream flows have dropped and fishing has improved. Remember to release bull trout.

MANN LAKE: trout

Slow angling for cutthroat trout The lake is very low, and illegally introduced goldfish have disrupted the trout fishery.

MILLER LAKE: trout, kokanee

The Lake has been producing good catches of brown and rainbow trout. The Lake is open to angling 24 hours/day with successful brown trout anglers targeting the early morning and late evening hours.

MOON RESERVOIR: bass, trout

The water level dropped rapidly over the past month. Slow angling for bass. No angling report for trout.

MUD LAKE: hatchery rainbow trout

The lake level is very low. Mud Lake experienced a winter kill this year. Catch rates have been low, but large fish are common in this lake. The lake is turbid year-round.

MURRAY RESERVOIR: trout

Fishing is good using spinners, flies or PowerBait.

NORTH MALHEUR BLM STOCK PONDS: rainbow trout

No recent angling report. All of the BLM ponds in the Harper-Westfall area were stocked on May 30 with fingerling-sized rainbow trout. Littlefield and Squaw Creek reservoirs have good carryover populations. Angling is probably slow due to the warm water conditions.

NORTH POWDER PONDS 1 & 2: rainbow trout

Fish morning or evening for best results.

OVERTON RESERVOIR:

Overton Reservoir is slow for rainbow trout over eight inches. Most of the west side of the reservoir is covered in aquatic vegetation. Fishing from a small boat/inflatable and casting to the weed line is productive in late summer.

OWYHEE RESERVOIR: largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, black crappie, yellow perch, catfish

The reservoir was 43 percent full on August 3. The boat ramp at the McCormick State Park and the Leslie Gulch boat ramp are out of the water. Angling for crappie is fair. Angling for bass is fair to good.

OWYHEE RIVER (Lower): brown trout and hatchery rainbow trout

Angling for rainbow trout and brown trout remains good. Catches of brown trout from 12 to 20 inches are common. Rainbow trout are less abundant, but anglers have been catching some larger fish. Flows averaged 223 cfs August 3.

OWYHEE RIVER (Upper): smallmouth bass and channel catfish

Discharge at the Rome gauge varied from approximately 130 to 155 cfs from July 30 through August 4. Angling for smallmouth and channel catfish should be good.

PAIUTE RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout and hatchery Lahontan cutthroat trout

Angling is slow due to turbid conditions and low water levels.

PHILLIPS RESERVOIR: trout, perch

Phillips has been stocked several times with legal-sized trout. Trout fishing is best near the dam. Perch angling has been good with sizes ranging from 8-12 inches. Worms or cutbait on jigs are working well. Some 8-10 inch bass are biting as well. Water level is 73 percent. ODFW needs Phillips Reservoir angler input as it considers future management of fishery. Please feel free to fill out this survey online.

PILCHER RESERVOIR: trout

Reports of catching some 10 to 12-inch trout. Crappie fishing is slow but typically picks up again in late August as the water levels drop. Reservoir is 70 percent full. Reservoir was stocked with additional legal trout in July.

PINE CREEK (Baker County): trout

Pine Creek and North Pine Creek were stocked twice with legal-sized rainbow trout. Fishing is good near Cornucopia.

POLE CREEK RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout

Water level in the reservoir is very low. The reservoir is not expected to last the season. The reservoir was stocked with legal-sized (8-10 inch) rainbow trout on May 22. There are few larger rainbow trout in this reservoir. Angling has slowed.

POWDER RIVER: trout, spring chinook

Rainbow trout have been stocked below Mason Dam, and fishing is usually good.

The Powder River from Hughes Lane Bridge in Baker City to Mason Dam is open for adipose fin-clipped spring chinook May 31 through Sept. 1, 2008. The daily bag limit is two spring chinook. These chinook have been released as surplus from the Snake River. Fishing for them has been slow.

SID LUCE: hatchery rainbow trout

Fishing for trout in this reservoir has been good. Fishing in the morning is the best; as the wind can make fishing and boating challenging by late morning or early afternoon. The road into Sid Luce has eroded considerably. Four wheel drive vehicles are recommended.

SOUTH MALHEUR BLM STOCK PONDS: hatchery rainbow trout.

All of the ponds in the Jordan Valley area were stocked with fingerling trout on June 3. Several reservoirs north of Jordan Valley have carryover populations. Angling has slowed with the warm weather.

SPAULDING RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout

Spaulding Reservoir went dry last summer. No fish are believed to be in the reservoir. ODFW will not stock the reservoir with fingerlings due to continued low water levels in the reservoir.

SPRAGUE RIVER: redband trout, brown trout, brown bullhead, largemouth bass, yellow perch

Angling has been fair for redband trout. Flows are still slightly high and turbid. Angling should be good for bass and brown bullhead below the town of Beatty.

SUNSTONE RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout

Sunstone reservoir went dry last summer, but it filled to full capacity this spring. A small number of legal-sized rainbow trout were stocked in May, as were a group of Eagle Lake rainbow trout which will be legal by the end of summer.

SYCAN RIVER: redband trout, brown trout, and brook trout

Angling is slow for redband trout. Flows are high.

THIEF VALLEY RESERVOIR: trout

Fishing is slow. Reservoir is 64 percent full.

THOMPSON RESERVOIR: largemouth bass, hatchery rainbow trout

Angling has been slow for rainbow trout and largemouth bass. Recent sampling by ODFW found bass in the 4 to 5 pound range and numerous rainbow trout in the reservoir. Water levels are declining. Bass will be concentrated on the south shore and at the face of the dam. Trout will be seeking deeper water as water temperatures increase and the algae in the lake increases in late summer.

TOPSY RESERVOIR: largemouth bass, brown bullhead, crappie, yellow perch, bluegill, Sacramento perch, pumpkinseed sunfish, redband trout

Angling for crappie is good. Expect angling to improve with warmer water temperatures. Most crappie are 8-10 inches.

TWIN LAKES (Baker County): rainbow trout

The lake has been stocked with 1700 legal rainbow trout.

UPPER MIDWAY RESERVOIR: largemouth bass

A total of 100 largemouth bass up to two pounds were stocked in Upper Midway from Davis Lake two weeks ago. It appears most of the largemouth bass ranging from 12-15 inches died this past winter due to ice cover thus resulting in lack of oxygen. Angling should be fair for largemouth bass. The reservoir is near full pool and boats are difficult to launch. Smaller boats are recommended.

UNITY RESERVOIR: trout, bass, crappie

Trout and crappie fishing are currently both fair-poor. Reservoir is 58 percent full. There is a lot of algae on the lake.

VEE LAKE

Angling is slow in Vee Lake. The reservoir is very low and water temperatures are rising quickly. A breech in the canal delivering water to the Lake was found and fixed by the USFS in July. Improved water conditions are expected, but water levels will not significantly increase until next year.

WARM SPRINGS RESERVOIR: smallmouth bass, white crappie, catfish, perch, and hatchery rainbow trout

The reservoir was 20 percent full August 3. Inflows ranged from 0.6 cfs up to 1.6 cfs from July 30 through August 4. Water level in the reservoir is expected to hit minimums as early as mid-September. Fishing is slow.

WARNER LAKES: black crappie, brown bullhead, yellow perch

Fishing for crappie and perch has been good. Most fish are caught near the bank in the early morning and late evenings. The lakes are low and shallow; boating access can be difficult.

WILLIAMSON RIVER (UPPER): redband trout and brook trout

Angling is fair for redband trout and brook trout.

WILLIAMSON RIVER (LOWER):

Angling is slow. Redband trout are starting to show up in the lower Williamson River with catch rates beginning to improve.

WILLOW VALLEY RESERVOIR: largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, yellow perch

Angling for largemouth bass has been very good. Small bluegill are abundant. A few nice crappie have been caught but crappie were not abundant in last year's electrofishing surveys. The reservoir is near full pool so boats can be launched.

WITHERS LAKE: brown trout, brook trout

Brook trout fishing has been good for trout in the 8 to 12-inch range. Brown trout fishing requires more stealth. Large brown trout tend to be found in the deep water on the north side of the lake. Fishing is good in the morning and mid-afternoon.

WOLF CREEK RESERVOIR: crappie, trout

Fishing is fair-poor for 11 to 14-inch trout, but they are skinny. Some crappie are biting around the dock. Reservoir is 67 percent full.

WOOD RIVER AND TRIBUTARIES: redband trout, brown trout, brook trout, yellow perch

Angling is slow for brown trout and redband trout.

YELLOWJACKET LAKE: trout

Fair angling for 10 to 13-inch rainbow trout. Extensive aquatic vegetation may make angling difficult. Fly anglers have had good success using leech and midge imitations. Bait anglers have had good success using PowerBait, leech and midge imitations.

SOUTHEAST ZONE HUNTING

OPEN: Cougar and bear

BEAR hunting is now open. Bear numbers are lower in Southeast zone than in other portions of the state due to limited habitat but populations are stable to increasing. Look in forested areas within the zone. Remember bear check-in is now mandatory.

COUGAR hunting is now open. Populations in Southeast Zone are healthy.

By this time of year COYOTE diets consist of small rodents and the young of big game animals. They respond well to calling during the summer months, and hunters should focus efforts in mule deer or antelope fawning areas or along riparian areas that have higher rodent numbers. Hunters should be aware that cougars will respond to predator calls.

KLAMATH WILDLIFE AREA

All hunting seasons are presently closed on the Klamath Wildlife Area. Overnight camping is not allowed on the Miller Island Unit.

Dogs are allowed only at the designated dog training area at the boat ramp area to minimize disturbance to migrating or nesting birds. Discharge of firearms is prohibited except by permit.

Please contact Klamath Wildlife Area at (541) 883-5734 or email lanny.a.fujishin@state.or.us for additional information.

SUMMER LAKE WILDLIFE AREA

All hunting seasons on the Wildlife Area are now closed. Discharging of firearms and training of dogs is prohibited, except by permit.

Please contact Summer Lake Wildlife Area at (541) 943-3152 or email martin.j.stlouis@state.or.us for additional information.

SOUTHEAST ZONE VIEWING

Harney County

Deer and antelope have had their fawns which are becoming more visible as they get older. Look around green agricultural fields or wetlands in the early mornings and evenings to see them while they are actively feeding during the cool part of the day. Please remember that if you find a fawn, leave it where it is as the mother is probably nearby.

A variety of warblers, waterfowl, shorebirds, swallows, gulls and raptors are in the area. Other species of interest that can be found in Harney County include white-faced ibis, long-billed curlews, black-necked stilts, willets, American Avocets, Swainson's hawks and ferruginous hawks.

The Malheur National Wildlife Area and associated public and private lands provide an abundance wildlife viewing. The Center Patrol Road and headquarters area are excellent wildlife viewing areas on the Malheur Refuge.

Klamath Falls Area

Aspen Lake provides prime viewing for many species of wildlife including sandhill crane, great-blue heron, wood duck, gadwall, mallard, cinnamon teal. Early morning or late evening are good bets for elk and deer around the edge of the lake. Aspen Lake is located three miles south of Doak Mountain summit on Highway 140 west of Klamath Falls.

Moore Park is a great location to view many species of passerine birds including nuthatches, warblers, chickadees, flycatchers, swallows and sparrows. Several woodpecker species can also be observed including Lewis' woodpecker, red-shafted flicker and white-headed woodpecker.

Moore Park is located at the south end of Upper Klamath Lake off Lakeshore Drive in Klamath Falls, Oregon. This city park is adjacent to Putnam's Point Park which is across from the north end of the Link River Trail.

Upper Klamath Lake

Upper Klamath Lake, located just north of Klamath Falls, provides prime viewing for many aquatic birds. Many aquatic birds are including Western and Clark's grebes are well into the nesting season. Young grebes can be observed hitching rides on their parents backs near shoreline areas. Pied-billed and eared grebes can also be observed along lakeshore areas. White pelicans and double-crested cormorants can be found foraging on fish. Pelicans are colonial nesters and only nest in a few isolated areas which offer security from harassment.

Bald eagles are just about finished with their nesting season, and recently fledged juvenile eagles can be observed with adults learning to forage for themselves.

Canada geese are just starting to fly again and can be found feeding in agricultural fields near water.

Klamath Falls Wildlife Area

Waterfowl broods are readily visible in ponds at this time. Sandhill cranes are raising their offspring (colts) and are visible in open fields and near agricultural areas foraging.

Some wetland units in Subunits A and B are dry to facilitate habitat management activities to reduce encroaching bulrush and cattail and increase open water for waterfowl and shorebird use.

The Boat Ramp area will be closed from the middle of August to the first part of October as road maintenance and re-alignment is undertaken. The Boat Ramp and boarding floats will also be replaced, funded by ODFW Sport Fish Restoration and Oregon Marine Board grants.

Dogs are allowed only at the designated dog training area near the boat ramp until August 1. After August 1, dog training may occur on the entire area except for posted Safety Zones.

Overnight camping is not allowed on the Miller Island Unit.

Lake County and Lakeview Area

All summer resident birds have arrived. Duck broods are common in the major county wetlands. White-faced ibis, sandhill crane and other marsh birds can be seen throughout the goose lake basin, Warner valley, Chewaucan marshes and at Summer Lake. Any of the desert or forested riparian areas are good locations to look for passerines.

Most big game species have had their young. Antelope fawns are common along the major county and BLM roads in the eastern portion of the county. Best viewing opportunities for mule deer fawns are along the edges of the major wetlands. Early morning and late evenings are the best time of day for viewing. Do not approach or pick up young wildlife-you don't want to cause the parent to abandon their young.

Summer Lake Wildlife Area

This section was updated on July 29. Vehicle access to the Wildlife Viewing Loop is open. Other major dike roads are closed to motor vehicles (non-motorized access permitted) to reduce disturbance to nesting and migrating waterbirds.

NOTE: Wetland enhancement/construction activities may close portions of the Viewing Loop temporarily during August and early September. Please check with Wildlife Area staff by telephone or email for current conditions.

Nearly all of the Area's wetlands are well flooded and receiving considerable waterbird use. Ducks, shorebirds, waders and passerine species are staging in good numbers and all species are well into breeding season activities. Many species have finished nesting and brood rearing is underway or completed. Fall migration is well underway and southward migrants are appearing now.

Waterfowl

Breeding ducks continue to be found in good numbers. Nearly all have completed initial nesting attempts and a few are re-nesting at this time. Drakes are beginning to lose their bright and colorful nuptial plumage as the breeding season winds down. Large groups of drakes are beginning to form as they enter the molt and attain their dull eclipse plumage. Ducks from outlying areas are beginning to congregate as they enter the molt seeking the security and food resources found on the Area's emergent wetlands.

Duck broods are common now for nearly all species, with recently hatched gadwall being very numerous. Resident Canada geese are dispersed widely across the Wildlife Area and adjacent private lands.

Shorebirds, waders and other waterbirds

Shorebird fall migration is in full swing now. Unsuccessful and other non-breeders are beginning their fall migration as they return south from Boreal and Arctic nesting areas. Resident and regional breeding species are staging in good numbers at this time. Good numbers of dowitchers (mostly long-billed), peeps (least and Western sandpipers) and phalaropes (Wilson's and red-necked) can be found. Other species should be arriving soon. This is a good time to find rare or unusual species moving through the area during migration. Early nesting and departing species such as long-billed curlew and willets are becoming hard to find at this time.

Bullgate Refuge, where extensive habitat enhancement took place last summer is providing excellent foraging opportunities for many species. Black-necked stilts are utilizing this area heavily now with nearly 1,000 birds dispersed across the unit and many are exhibiting considerable brood rearing activity. Other species such as killdeer, long-billed curlew, Wilson's phalarope and willets are widely dispersed and broods have been observed recently. Snowy plovers are fairly numerous as they bring their broods to fresh water areas. The edges of alkaline playas and shallowly flooded alkali flats are good locations to observe this unique species. Eared grebes and Forster's terns have responded very favorably to the enhancement that returned some of the unit to an early successional stage and are nesting in good numbers.

Area users are urged to use caution while driving and parking. Killdeer and willets frequently nest in gravel, along road shoulders, parking areas and at campgrounds, chicks are often nearby. If chicks or nests are discovered, viewers are urged to move away and reduce disturbance during this important time during the life cycles of many species.

Sandhill cranes remain scattered across the Wildlife Area with most pairs still occupying their breeding territories and brood rearing is underway. Crane pairs are very secretive with their flightless colts but are becoming more apparent as some chicks approach flight. Early morning and evenings are the best times to observe cranes and their broods. Scattered individuals, pairs and small groups of non-breeding cranes can sometimes be found roosting in emergent wetlands during daytime hours.

Secretive marsh birds (sora and Virginia rails, American bitterns and pied-billed grebes) remain vocal throughout emergent marsh areas. Morning and evening hours around sunrise and sunset afford excellent opportunities to hear these secretive birds.

Other waterbird species are fairly numerous now. Caspian and Forster's terns,

American white pelicans, Great egrets, white-faced ibis and gulls are quite common and can be found feeding on small fish and invertebrates in the Area's larger ponds or canals. Post-breeding assemblages of many waterbirds is beginning to occur. Franklin's gull and snowy egrets were observed last week. Foraging activity is especially heavy in drawdown areas and canals where forage fish are concentrated.

Raptors and Others

Resident raptors remain scattered throughout the Wildlife Area as well as on private lands along Highway 31. Migrant and dispersing juvenile raptors are found in good numbers throughout the Summer Lake Basin and are very apparent along Highway 31. Meadows offer excellent foraging opportunities for many raptors. Northern harriers are especially numerous over marsh and hay meadows. Courtship flights are winding down now as most female harriers are rearing chicks. Bald eagles are infrequently seen across the Wildlife Area now. A few pairs are scattered along Winter Ridge and adults can sometimes be seen foraging over Wildlife Area wetlands. Prairie falcons, ferruginous hawks and golden eagles are sometimes seen during this time of the year and Swainson's hawks are fairly common. A red-shouldered hawk was found at the Turner Place over the past weekend. Great-horned owls chicks have fledged and a family group is easily observed at River Ranch Barn. Osprey can be found at Ana Reservoir occupying the nesting platform with chicks approaching flight stage.

Upland game birds

California quail broods have been observed recently and should increase in numbers as summer progresses. Pheasant broods continue to be observed around agricultural and Northend areas.

Eurasian collared doves remain at Headquarters Complex and resident mourning doves are fairly common. They are calling incessantly now, morning and evening.

Passerine (perching) species, especially sparrows and finches remain fairly common around the Headquarters complex, Summer Lake Rest Area, homestead sites and shelter break plantings at the north end of the Area where they are attracted to tree and shrub cover. Good numbers of calliope and rufous hummingbirds are beginning to visit feeders at Headquarters.

Blackbirds are found throughout the Area's emergent marsh areas, most have completed nesting activities And a few are starting to flock up. American robins, warbling vireos, black-headed grosbeaks, Am. and lesser goldfinches and yellow warblers are quite numerous and actively singing around the Headquarters Complex now. All three common swallow species (barn, cliff and tree) are very numerous and nested in good numbers at Headquarters Complex and the River Ranch barn where nest boxes and sites are in abundance. Fledglings are numerous and large pre-migration flocks are beginning to form. An early morning visit to Headquarters will afford viewers to observe 100's of roosting swallows depart to nearby foraging areas. Bank and Northern rough-winged swallows can be found along the Ana River Canyon where an abundance of soft banks allow them to excavate their nest burrows.

Facilities and Access

Non-motorized access and viewing opportunities are available across most of the Area at this time. Camping is permitted at four sites on the Wildlife Area. Users are urged to exercise care with campfires. Campgrounds are primitive but each have vault toilets, trash barrels and a few picnic tables.

The Wildlife Viewing Loop is open and will remain that way most of the time until early fall. Wetland enhancement/construction activities may close portions of the Viewing Loop temporarily during August and early September. Please check with Wildlife Area staff by telephone or email for current conditions.

Other major dikes (Bullgate, Gold and Windbreak) and the Work Road are now closed. These dikes will be open for motor vehicle travel beginning on August 15, 2008. This closure is implemented to reduce disturbance to migrating, molting and breeding waterbirds. Non-motorized access is still permitted on these major dikes and other lesser ones.

Viewers need to continue to use caution since road edges can still be soft and muddy, especially along the edges of canals and ponds. Secondary and minor dikes remain closed to motor vehicle traffic and cross country travel by motor vehicles and ATVs is prohibited.

Viewers are reminded to keep pets in close control due to the wide variety of ground nesting birds found throughout the Wildlife Area's upland and wetland habitats. It is unlawful to let dogs run at large during game bird nesting seasons.

Habitat

Many of the Wildlife Area's wetland habitats remain well flooded now, and large areas of shallowly flooded seasonal wetlands are available to waterbirds. Evapotranspiration rates are very high (about 0.40 inches a day) and many wetland areas are receding. Irrigation season in Summer Lake Valley has been curtailed for haying season and a significant increase in flows down Ana River and to many wetland units on the Wildlife Area is occurring. Water levels will increase in some seasonally flooded wetland units while others will continue receding and will provide diverse foraging opportunities to breeding and migrant waterbirds. These wetlands are favored by a wide variety of migrants as well as nesting or brood rearing resident birds and are very rich in natural food sources. New feeding locations are being exposed on a near daily basis now as evaporation rates rise radically in the summer heat.

Warm day time temperatures has allowed for the emergence of large numbers of flys, midges and other flying insects especially in Bullgate Refuge where habitat enhancement activities last summer created ideal conditions for these and other invertebrates. Mosquitoes, deer flys and horse flys are becoming numerous now and provide another abundant food source to insectivorous birds. Please remember to use protective measures to avoid these biting insects.

Meadows and hayfields found on adjacent private lands and in selected locations on the Wildlife Area are drying-up. As meadows dry and are mowed for hay, considerable raptor and waterbird use will occur, especially when reflooded.

Upland habitat remains in good condition due to warm daytime temperatures that is resulting in excellent new growth of many species of forbs and grasses. Recently farmed food plots are providing foraging sites to many species looking for seeds, green shoots and invertebrates in open, cultivated areas.

Please contact Summer Lake Wildlife Area at (541) 943-3152 or e-mail martin.j.stlouis@state.or.us for additional information.

NORTHEAST ZONE

FISHING

Weekend Fishing Opportunities

* Smallmouth bass fishing on the John Day River continues to be very good, while trout fishing is fair in the South and Middle Forks.

* Both bank and boat anglers have been having some success at Wallowa Lake.

GRANDE RONDE, WALLOWA, IMNAHA RIVERS AND TRIBUTARIES: trout

Stream flows in the lower Grande Ronde, Wallowa, and Imnaha Rivers have declined and trout fishing is good.

HONEYMOON, TEPEE, SALT CREEK AND McGRAW PONDS: trout

Honeymoon, Salt Creek, McGraw and Tepee ponds have been stocked with rainbow trout.

JOHN DAY RIVER: bass, trout, channel catfish

Smallmouth bass angling has been very good, although boating access to the more remote sections of the river will be limited to smaller inflatable boats due to low water conditions. The most accessible reach is between Kimberly and Service Creek with several large blocks of BLM land. Channel catfish are also on the bite, with best success using bait in the deeper, slow moving pools.

Trout anglers should have moderate success, early in the morning or late evening on the South Fork and Middle Fork John Day rivers. Special regulations apply to the Middle Fork above Highway 395, so before fishing there, anglers are reminded to check the angling synopsis.

JUBILEE LAKE: trout

The lake has been stocked with legal-sized trout, and angling should be good.

KINNEY LAKE: trout

Kinney Lake has been stocked with legal-sized trout. Trout angling should be good.

LADD POND\PEACH POND: trout

Fishing is slow. Fish morning or evening for best results.

MAGONE LAKE: trout

Angler success has tapered off as temperatures are getting warm enough that fish have moved into deeper water. Best success should be early in the mornings or late evening.

McKAY RESERVIOR: yellow perch, crappie, largemouth bass

Angling for warmwater species should be good.

MARR, VICTOR, AND WALLOWA WILDLIFE AREA PONDS: trout

Wallowa Valley ponds have been stocked with legal-size rainbow trout.

MORGAN LAKE: trout, bullheads, crappie

The Lake has been stocked with legal rainbow trout. Fishing is fair.

PENDLAND LAKE: trout

The lake experienced a heavy winter kill and angling will be greatly impacted this spring and summer. The lake has been stocked with legal-sized trout and angling should be fair. The lake also will be re-stocked with fingerlings.

ROULET POND: trout

The Pond has been stocked several times with legal-sized trout. The pond was stocked with additional rainbow trout in July.

TROUT FARM POND: trout

Angling success is fair for brook trout and rainbow trout.

UMATILLA FOREST PONDS: trout

Most ponds have been stocked and angling should be fair.

UMATILLA RIVER: trout

Catch and release trout angling should be good.

WALLOWA LAKE: rainbow trout, kokanee

Wallowa Lake has been stocked with legal-sized rainbow. Trout fishing is good for boat and bank anglers using bait or lures. Boat anglers are reporting fair to good success for kokanee. Most reports have come from anglers trolling with flashers and bait. Kokanee are distributed between 35 and 50 feet deep and are moving deeper as the lake surface warms.

WILLOW CREEK RESERVOIR: trout, crappie, bullhead catfish, large and smallmouth bass

A health advisory has been issued for high levels of blue-green algae in Willow Creek Reservoir. The Oregon Department of Human Services recommends that if people choose to eat fish from waters where algae blooms are present, they should remove all fat, skin and organs from the fish before cooking. For local information contact the US Army Corps of Engineers Natural Resource Management Office at (541) 676-9009. For health information, contact Ken Kauffman, DHS Environmental Health Specialist at (971)673-0435. Angling for warmwater species should be good.

NORTHEAST ZONE HUNTING

OPEN: Bear and cougar

Wolves may be present in northeast Oregon

On July 18, 2008 a wolf pack with pups was confirmed in northern Union County. Wolves are listed under Oregon's Endangered Species Act and also protected by federal law. It is unlawful to shoot them. Coyote hunters in northeastern Oregon need to take extra care to identify their target as wolves can look like coyotes, especially wolf pups in the mid-summer and fall.

ODFW needs hunters' assistance to establish wolves' presence in Oregon; please report any wolf sightings or wolf sign to La Grande office (541) 963-2138 or online.

UNION COUNTY

BEAR and COUGAR seasons are now open. Numbers are good in all units. Ripening fruit will become important for bears during late summer and hunters should check these areas for activity. Remember the new rule; all harvested bears must be checked in within 10 days.

GROUND SQUIRREL numbers are stable around the county. Hunters will find plenty of good shooting on the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest as well as on private lands. Hunters should seek permission from landowners before hunting on private property.

COYOTE numbers are strong throughout the county. Using predator calls as a lure and moving call sights after 20 minutes is an effective method for harvesting coyotes. Be sure to ask permission before hunting on private land.

LADD MARSH WILDLIFE AREA

Hunting seasons are now closed.

GRANT COUNTY

BEAR and COUGAR seasons are now open. Populations of both appear to be increasing, and the Desolation unit should be a good area to find both this fall.

COYOTES may be responding well to calls. Good areas to try are the South Fork of the John Day and on private lands between Dayville and John Day. Make sure to ask permission before hunting private lands.

MORROW, GILLIAM and WHEELER COUNTIES

BEAR and COUGAR seasons are now open. Cougar numbers are increasing in most areas. Bear numbers are increasing in the Heppner and Fossil units but populations are still relatively low compared to other areas of northeast Oregon.

To COYOTE hunt, find a good location with fresh coyote sign, preferably in an area of little human activity. Watch wind direction to help prevent giving away your location. Using fawn distress type calls, in addition to rabbit, can be very effective.

UMATILLA COUNTY

BEAR and COUGAR seasons are now open. Bear density is highest north of Interstate 84. Cougar populations are high.

High numbers of COYOTES can be found in the lower elevation forested areas of Umatilla County on public land. Calling will produce a number of opportunities in coyote concentration areas. Looking for tracks along roads or ridgelines will provide a good indication of the presence of coyotes in any specific area.

WALLOWA DISTRICT

BEAR and COUGAR seasons are now open. Remember bear check-in is now mandatory.

Good numbers of COYOTES can be found throughout Wallowa County. Calling coyotes with rabbit distress type calls has been effective for hunters. It is important to choose areas with abundant coyote sign and little human activity.

GROUND SQUIRRELS are still very active and provide a great opportunity for sharpening shooting skills for youngsters and adults alike. Ground squirrels are abundant on private lands in the upper Wallowa valley on or adjacent to agricultural crops. Hunters are reminded to seek permission before entering private property.

BAKER COUNTY

BEAR and COUGAR seasons are now open. Remember bear check-in is now mandatory.

COYOTE numbers are good throughout the district. Remember to ask for permission before hunting on private properties.

NORTHEAST ZONE VIEWING

Baker County

Bighorn sheep lambs can be seen along the Burnt River Canyon west of Durkee or along the Snake River Road south of Richland. Deer fawns and elk calves can be seen in areas with good hiding cover. Your best opportunity to find animals is in the early morning hours. Remember not all fawns and calves alone are abandoned. Enjoy them at a distance but remember to leave them alone.

Gilliam, Morrow and Wheeler Counties

NEW: Passerines in the area for the summer include varied thrush, western tanager, Say's phoebe, white-crowned sparrow and pine siskins. Also, one can spot western wood peewee and a variety of swallows-tree, northern-rough winged, cliff, barn and bank. Look and listen for Orange-crowned, Yellow-rumped and Wilson's warblers; chipping, lark and song sparrows; and black-headed grosbeak.

Along the Columbia River and area wetlands American Bittern, Great Blue Heron, Black-crowned Night Heron, Great Egret, Long-billed Curlew, Black-necked Stilt, Spotted Sandpiper, Caspian Tern, Black Tern, Ring-billed Gull, Lazuli Bunting, Marsh Wren, Black-chinned Hummingbird and Trumpeter Swan have been seen.

Canada Geese can be seen along the Columbia. Duck species include Blue-winged Teal, Cinnamon Teal, Redhead duck, Ring-necked Duck, Bufflehead, Mallard, Gadwall, and Ruddy Duck. Also, there are Pied-billed and Western Grebes along the waterways.

In the uplands you can find Loggerhead Shrike, Meadow Larks, Horned Larks, Rock and Canyon Wrens, and Northern Oriole. Upland Game Birds can be seen with their broods, including California Quail, Hungarian Partridge, Chukar and Pheasant.

In the forested areas you may get a glimpse of turkeys with their broods. Turkeys are dispersed in small groups throughout the forest. The Top road between the forest and Monument offers the best chance to see them in the morning. Blue birds, both Mountain and Western, can be seen in the open areas of the forest. A small group of pronghorn can be seen at times in the Sunflower flats area. Deer and Elk can be seen with their young throughout the forest. Dawn and dusk are the best times to catch a look, try around any of the meadows that are still green.

Raptors in the area include Ferruginous hawks in the rockier canyons. Red-tailed Hawk, Swainson's Hawk, American Kestrel, Northern Harrier and Osprey can all be seen this time of year. Great Horned and Barn Owls are common sights. Short-eared Owls can still be spotted in the grasslands.

Union County

Many young birds are hatching around the valley. Look for game birds such as California quail and ring-necked pheasants along rural roads in the evenings and at dusk. Turkey polts have been reported at several sights around the county. Song birds are plentiful throughout the Grande Ronde valley and are most active during the cooler portions of the day.

Pronghorn antelope and their fawns can be viewed on Ladd Marsh Wildlife Area, often along Pierce road and Hot lake Lane. Deer and elk can be seen around the edges of the valley. Deer fawns and elk calves are now appearing; these animals rely on hiding for survival and should never be handled. A doe or cow will feed away from her young and return periodically through out the day to nurse. A morning drive up the Grande Ronde River on Highway 244 will provide viewers with ample opportunities for seeing young deer and elk.

ODFW's Ladd Marsh Wildlife Area, La Grande

American avocet, black-necked stilt and Wilson's phalarope young have hatched and may be seen foraging in shallow water or on mud flats. Canada goose broods look a lot like the adults although the goslings' color is duskier. Duck broods of almost any age can also be observed throughout the area. The most common broods are those of mallard, gadwall and cinnamon teal. Young birds are vulnerable to disturbance so please do not approach families of ducks, geese or other birds too closely.

White birds were much in evidence on Ladd Marsh recently with sightings of over thirty American white pelicans, six or more great egrets and a single tundra swan. The great blue heron chicks from the Catherine Creek rookery appear to have fledged as high numbers of juveniles have been seen throughout the area.

An estimated thirteen pairs of greater sandhill cranes nested at Ladd Marsh this year. These birds, and in some cases their colts, may be seen from points along Foothill Road, Pierce Road and Hot Lake Lane. Many of the young cranes have fledged, but a few remain grounded. Please report any banded sandhill cranes observed to wildlife area staff (541-963-4954). Banded cranes may have colored bands on both legs; it is important to note the combination and position of the color bands and which leg they were on.

Birds are not the only wildlife to be seen on Ladd Marsh. Pronghorn does with fawns may be observed from Pierce Road or Hot Lake Lane. Elk and deer have also given birth on Ladd Marsh; watch for mule deer does with fawns and elk cows with calves throughout the wildlife area. Other mammals to watch for include Columbian ground squirrels, Belding's ground squirrels, badgers, and coyotes.

There are numerous quality viewing opportunities from the roads that pass through the area. Binoculars or a spotting scope will help as many animals are best viewed from a distance.

Dogs are not permitted within the Wildlife Area, on or off leash.

For directions to Ladd Marsh Wildlife Area, visit the ODFW Web site.

Umatilla County

Riparian areas, from low to high, will have a good number of species of passerines including Bullock's orioles, yellow warblers, western tanagers, and numerous finches and wrens for people to observe or photograph. Lusher areas of the Umatilla National Forest offer opportunities to view species such as olive-sided flycatchers and red-naped sapsuckers.

Early summer is an opportune time to get out and observe and photograph a variety of wildlife species. Deer and elk are active through out the day. Newborn deer fawns and elk calves can often be seen during the month of June and early July.

Flocks of ducks and geese can be seen along the Columbia River and large reservoirs in the County as they feed up for the northern migration.

Elk will still be common along the upper open areas of the west slope of the Blue Mountains. Deer will be seen in herds from the valley floor to the upper Blue Mountains. The riverine and agricultural areas near the base of the mountains will be dominated by white-tailed deer. The desert and mountain areas will be inhabited primarily by mule deer. Elk can be viewed throughout the day while deer will be most visible in the first and last two hours of the day

As spring comes into full bloom, neotropical migrants will begin to appear. Gulls and raptors including bald eagles can be seen along the Columbia River. Visit local wildlife areas to see shore and marsh birds in addition to perching birds and raptors.

Wood ducks can be seen traveling in flocks up and down the river systems with cottonwood trees along the banks.

Wallowa County

Summer is a great time to get out and observe and photograph a variety of wildlife species. Deer and elk are active through out the day particularly near lush meadow areas and can often be seen with newborn fawns and calves.

Songbird species are abundant through out the county and are most active early in the morning. Riparian areas are excellent places to look for a variety of bird species.

SNAKE RIVER ZONE

FISHING

BROWNLEE RESERVOIR: crappie, bass, catfish, bluegill, trout, perch

Crappie fishing is very good. Fish are not large (6-8 inches) but there are a lot of them. Jigs of all colors have been working well. Bass fishing has been good. For bass anglers who like to top fish, between 5:30 and 8:00 am is best. Catfish and perch are being caught in the Powder River Arm with worms and cut-bait. Fish for catfish in 2 feet of water with bobbers. Some trout are being caught in the river mouths. Call Idaho Power Company's recording at 1-800-422-3143 to get information on access at recreational sites or visit their Web site under the "Rivers and Recreation" heading.

Reservoir level information

OXBOW RESERVOIR: trout, crappie, bass, catfish

Crappie are post spawn and the larger fish have moved into 30-35 feet of water. Smaller crappie can be caught from shore. Bass and catfish are biting well. Bass can be kept but have a size slot limit. See regulations for more information.

HELLS CANYON RESERVOIR: trout, crappie, bass, catfish

Very good angling for crappie, bass, perch and catfish. Crappie are running 10-12 inches and can be found in deep water with greens or red sparkle jigs. Crappie are generally in back eddies, and in shaded areas in the afternoon

SNAKE RIVER below HELLS CANYON RESERVOIR: trout, smallmouth bass

Trout and smallmouth bass fishing are good. Get updated information on flow levels.

SNAKE RIVER (Above Brownlee Reservoir): channel catfish, flathead catfish, smallmouth bass

Flows down the river have begun increasing as crops are harvested causing the river to be more turbid. Flows near Nyssa have ranged from 8,700 to 10,900 cfs from July 30 through August 4. Flows near Weiser have ranged from 10,500 cfs to 12,500 cfs from July 30 through August 4. Angling is fair for 18 to 28 inch catfish. Smallmouth bass angling is fair.

COLUMBIA ZONE

FISHING

Salmon, Steelhead, and Shad:

COLUMBIA RIVER MAINSTEM, Buoy 10 Line upstream to the Tongue Point/Rocky Point line:

Effective August 1 n September 1 (or Chinook guideline of 6,500 fish) this section of the Columbia River is open to angling for adult Chinook (greater than 24 inches), adipose fin-clipped adult coho (greater than 16 inches), and adipose fin-clipped steelhead. The daily bag limit is two fish, only one of which may be a Chinook. During September 2 n December 31, this area will be open to the retention of adipose fin-clipped coho and adipose fin-clipped steelhead. All other permanent regulations apply.

COLUMBIA RIVER MAINSTEM, Rocky Point/Tongue Point line upstream to Bonneville Dam:

Effective August 1 n December 31 this section of the Columbia River is open to angling for adipose fin-clipped coho and adipose fin-clipped steelhead, but closed to the retention of Chinook adults and jacks. The daily bag limit will be two adult coho and/or steelhead, plus five adipose fin-clipped coho jacks. It is unlawful to angle for coho jacks after the adult bag limit has been reached. Chinook retention will be allowed during September 1 n 16: however, Chinook retention will be prohibited from a line projected from Red light #62 on Deer Island to Green light #63 on the lower end of Martin Island upstream to a line projected from the Lewis River boundary marker on the lower end of Bachelor Island to the Warrior Rock Lighthouse (RM 79 n 88) to protect Lewis River fall Chinook. The daily bag limit will be two adult salmonids, only one of which may be an adult Chinook salmon, and five jack salmon. Jack salmon are Chinook less than or equal to 24 inches and coho less than or equal to 20 inches.

COLUMBIA RIVER MAINSTEM, Bonneville Dam to the Oregon/Washington Border:

Effective August 1 through December 31, this section of the Columbia River is open to angling for fall Chinook, coho (only adipose fin-clipped coho may be retained between Bonneville Dam and the Hood River bridge), and adipose fin-clipped steelhead. The daily bag limit is two adult salmonids and five jack salmon. It is unlawful to angle for jack salmon after the adult daily bag limit has been reached.

Steelhead anglers were successful in the lower Columbia River this past weekend. The highest catch rates were observed in the gorge where boat anglers averaged 1.50 steelhead caught per boat and bank anglers averaged 0.49 steelhead caught per bank angler. The opening weekend at Buoy 10 started out slow with one fall Chinook caught for 73 boats. Buoy 10 should improve as more salmon enter the river.

Gorge Bank:

Weekend checking showed 19 adipose fin-clipped steelhead kept and four unclipped steelhead released for 47 bank anglers.

Gorge Boats:

Weekend checking showed six adipose fin-clipped steelhead kept for four boats (complete trips).

Troutdale Boats:

Weekend checking showed three adipose fin-clipped steelhead kept, and six unclipped steelhead released for 23 boats (complete trips).

Portland to Longview Boats:

Weekend checking showed 12 adipose fin-clipped steelhead kept and four unclipped steelhead released for 42 boats (incomplete trips).

Portland to Westport Bank:

Weekend checking showed two adipose fin-clipped steelhead kept for 19 bank anglers.

Estuary Boat & Bank:

Weekend checking showed one fall Chinook caught for 73 boats.

Bonneville Pool:

No report.

The Dalles Pool:

No report.

John Day Pool:

No report.

STURGEON:

BUOY 10 UPSTREAM TO WAUNA POWERLINES (including Youngs Bay and all adjacent Washington tributaries):

The Compact adopted the following rules at the July 24 Joint State Hearing for the sturgeon sport fishery below Wauna power lines (RM 40) downstream to Buoy 10, including Youngs Bay and all adjacent Washington tributaries for 2008:

* Prohibit the retention of sturgeon seven days per week during Sunday July 27, 2008 through December 31, 2008. Catch and release angling is allowed during all retention closures.

* Retention of green sturgeon is prohibited as per permanent regulations.

* Daily and annual catch limits listed in the 2008 Oregon Sport Regulations pamphlet remain in effect.

WAUNA POWERLINES UPSTREAM TO BONNEVILLE DAM (including all adjacent Washington tributaries and the Willamette River downstream of Willamette Falls including the Multnomah Channel): This section of the Columbia River is currently open to the retention of sturgeon on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. The daily bag limit is one fish between 42 and 60 inches in length and the annual limit is five fish. The use of more than one single point barbless hook is prohibited.

The Compact adopted the following rules at the July 24 Joint State Hearing for the sturgeon sport fishery above Wauna power lines (RM 40) upstream to Bonneville Dam, including all adjacent Washington tributaries, and the lower Willamette River (including the Multnomah Channel) upstream to Willamette Falls for 2008:

* Allow the retention of white sturgeon four days per week on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday during January 1, 2008 through December 31, 2008 (including August and September).

* Prohibit the retention of sturgeon three days per week on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday during January 1, 2008 through December 31, 2008.

* Retention of green sturgeon is prohibited as per permanent regulations.

* Daily and annual catch limits listed in the 2008 Oregon Sport Regulations pamphlet remain in effect.

BONNEVILLE DAM UPSTREAM TO THE DALLES DAM:

Effective 12:01 AM Saturday July 12 through December 31, 2008 the retention of sturgeon in the Bonneville pool and tributaries is prohibited because the catch guideline of 700 fish has been met. Catch and release angling is allowed during the retention prohibition.

THE DALLES DAM UPSTREAM TO JOHN DAY DAM:

Effective 12:01 AM Saturday March 15 through December 31, 2008 the retention of sturgeon in The Dalles pool and tributaries is prohibited because the catch guideline of 100 fish has been met. Catch and release angling is allowed during the retention prohibition.

JOHN DAY DAM UPSTREAM TO MCNARY DAM:

Effective 12:01 AM Wednesday, March 26 through December 31, 2008 the retention of sturgeon in the John Day pool and tributaries is prohibited because the catch guideline of 165 fish has been met. Catch and release angling is allowed during the retention prohibition.

Gorge Bank:

Weekend checking showed one oversize and eight sublegal sturgeon released for 60 bank anglers.

Gorge Boats:

Weekend checking showed 11 oversize and 19 sublegal sturgeon released for four boats (complete trips).

Troutdale Boats:

Weekend checking showed one legal white sturgeon kept and 22 sublegal sturgeon released for three boats (complete trips).

Portland to Longview Bank:

Weekend checking showed no catch reported for one bank angler.

Portland to Longview Boats:

Weekend checking showed one oversize and 55 sublegal sturgeon released for 31 boats (incomplete trips).

Estuary Boat & Bank: CLOSED FOR RETENTION.

Bonneville Pool: CLOSED FOR RETENTION.

The Dalles Pool: CLOSED FOR RETENTION.

John Day Pool: CLOSED FOR RETENTION.

Walleye:

Troutdale boats:

Weekend checking showed one walleye kept for three boats (complete trips).

COLUMBIA RIVER ZONE VIEWING

Road Trip Stop: From Portland to points east on I-84: Bonneville Hatchery

Stop by ODFW's Bonneville Hatchery and pay a visit to the sturgeon viewing and interpretive center where you can watch sturgeon and trout through an underwater window.

Feed large rainbow trout in ponds and view adult white sturgeon measuring more than 10 feet long. Interpretive displays are available inside and out, including an informational video. Disabled-accessible restrooms are available. A gift shop is open during summer months.

The Hatchery is located 3 miles west of Cascade Locks, off of Interstate 84 within the Bonneville Dam complex. Neighboring Bonneville Dam offers a visitor center with a fish-viewing window.

MARINE ZONE

FISHING

FISH

Fishing for salmon in the ocean picked up a little this week. Off the Columbia River nine out of 10 fishers took home a chinook or coho. South of Cape Falcon recreational coho catch was about seven fish for every 10 anglers with Gold Beach and Brookings as the hot spots.

Sport coho salmon fishing for Oregon coastal waters south of Cape Falcon is open from Cape Falcon to the Oregon/California border, the salmon season is open seven days-per-week until Aug. 31 or until attainment of a 9,000 coho salmon quota is reached. The allowed bag limit is two adipose fin-clipped coho per day. In the ocean from Cape Falcon north to Leadbetter Point in Washington (Columbia River Ocean Area) the area is open for all salmon species Sunday through Thursday. Coho must have a healed, clipped adipose fin.

Tuna fishers out of Astoria and Garibaldi found fish and averaged around four or five fish per angler. Effort was light south of Garibaldi and those who found tuna averaged about one fish per angler. Tuna are between 40 and 50 miles offshore.

The anglers caught an average of about three rockfish. Ling cod were harder to catch with about one in five fishers landing a fish. The marine fish bag limit for anglers is now at five fish. In an effort to avoid yelloweye rockfish, the bottomfish fishery moved inside of 20 fathoms. Sport anglers may still retain two lingcod, but that fishery is also restricted inside of 20 fathoms. The regulation changes took effect July 7 and are scheduled to continue through December 31. These changes do not affect other fisheries (Pacific halibut, salmon, surfperch, tuna and so on).

Anglers may fish for flatfish, like sanddabs, flounder and sole, inside the 40-fathom line through Dec. 31, since anglers can generally avoid incidental catches of rockfish when targeting those species. A list of groundfish and fish included in the five-fish marine bag limit and waypoints for the 40-fathom line can be found in the 2008 Oregon Sport Ocean Regulations for Salmon, Halibut and other Marine Fish Species.

Remember: yelloweye rockfish and canary rockfish may not be retained. The Stonewall Bank Yelloweye Rockfish Conservation Area approximately 15 miles west of Newport is closed to the harvest of rockfish, lingcod, flatfish and others.

http://www.dfw.state.or.us/mrp/finfish/halibut/index.asp. The nearshore season (inside 40 fathoms) for the central coast (from Cape Falcon to Humbug Mountain) is open seven days a week. South of Humbug Mountain the season is seven days a week through Oct. 31.

The next scheduled Pacific halibut all-depth opener for the central coast will be Aug. 15-17 but a conference call is scheduled for later this week and fishing may go to every Friday, Saturday, Sunday until the quota is reached or Oct. 26. For the latest information please go to

Herring fishing is still good in coastal bays this time of year and makes fun, fast fishing action especially for kids. Cook them up, smoke them or use them as bait for larger fish.

Surfperch can often be found in bays and estuaries though early summer. Shore-based anglers continue to find some success fishing off jetties.

CLAMS

Recreational mussel harvesting from Arcadia Beach in Clatsop County to the mouth of the Columbia River is closed due to elevated levels of paralytic shellfish poisoning or PSP toxins. The closure includes mussels on the beaches, rocks, jetties, and at the entrance to bays in this section of the Oregon Coast. Coastal scallops are not affected by this closure when only the adductor muscle is eaten.

The Clatsop County beaches north of Tillamook Head are closed to razor clams through Sept. 30. This is a conservation closure. The recreational harvest of all other clams, mussels and scallops is open south of Arcadia Beach. Harvesters should check for current closures on the ODA shellfish safety page or call the shellfish hotline, 503-986-4728 or 1-800-448-2474. Waters can be closed on short notice because of contaminated waters due to coastal flooding and because of elevated levels of naturally occurring toxins.

Check out the recreational clam pages on the ODFW Web site. They contain everything you need to know for identifying and harvesting Oregon's clams.

CRABS

Sport crabbing is open in the ocean, bays and estuaries. Sport catches were about three crabs per angler. Crabbing in the ocean closes Aug. 15.

For sport crabbers the minimum size for Dungeness crab is 5¾ 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 101 of the Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations booklet.

MARINE ZONE VIEWING

Road Trip Stop: Portland, Tillamook, Newport to Lincoln City, Hwy. 18 and 101

Four miles north of the junction between Highway 18 and 101 is Three Rocks Road, the gateway to one of the gems of the Oregon coast, Cascade Head. Follow the road west for a couple of miles to Knight County Park that has a boat launch, restrooms, picnic tables and parking for the Cascade Head Trail.

The trail gives spectacular views of the Salmon River estuary and the Ocean. Often you will look down to see eagles soaring below you along the river. Closer up you may see the endangered Oregon silverspot butterfly. Cascade Head is a haven for rare plants, wildlife and grassland communities once abundant along the Oregon Coast.

Elk, deer, coyote, snowshoe hare and the Pacific giant salamander frequent the preserve, while bald eagle, great horned owl, northern harrier, red-tail hawk and the occasional peregrine falcon soar in hunting forays over the grassy slopes.

Please remember to leave dogs and mountain bikes at home. Stay on the trail to protect sensitive native plants. For more information, visit the Nature Conservancy's Web site.

Road Trip Stop: Hwy. 101 at Depoe Bay

Oregon Parks and Recreation Department park rangers are ready at the Whale Watching Center in Depoe Bay to answer your questions and help you find whales to watch. Located on U.S. 101 along the seawall in scenic Depoe Bay, the center is a perfect spot for visitors to locate and watch whales as they blow, dive and breach. Open through Labor Day, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily.

ATTENTION TIDEPOOLERS

The next series of minus tides begins about the middle of August. Check tables before you plan your trip to the coast. But, viewing can be good at any low tide. Look for anemones, hermit crabs, sea urchins, small fish, jelly fish, sea stars, barnacles and other animals of the intertidal region.

Tide tables

WHALE WATCHING TOURS

Although the spring and fall gray whale migrations are considered the height of the whale-watching season, summer can be a good time also. There are a number of resident gray whales that spend most of the year on the Oregon coast. Sperm whales and other kinds of whales area occasionally seen as well as the dolphins, seals, sea lions and marine birds that abound on the coast.

Summer's better ocean conditions allow charter-boat operators to offer whale-watching tours that take you close to the action. Prices vary, but are usually around $30 for adults and about half that for children under 12. The trip usually lasts about two hours and often includes other features like an on-board naturalist and studying crabs or plankton.

The Whale Watching Center in Depoe Bay keeps track of daily whale sightings along the coast. Visit them online.

Oregon Whale Watch provides a list of whale watching charters.

Cannon Beach

Stop at Cannon Beach on your next trip to the coast and visit Haystack Rock to see a wealth of intertidal life.

Oceanside/Tillamook Area:

Three Arch Rocks Refuge

This Refuge lies a half mile offshore of Oceanside, west of Tillamook. One of the smallest designated Wilderness Areas in the country, the refuge consists of three large and six smaller rocks totaling 15 acres. A breeding population of Steller's sea lions is almost always visible at Three Arch Rocks.

The refuge also supports the largest breeding colony of common murre south of Alaska. Bring binoculars or a spotting scope.

Cape Meares National Wildlife Refuge

Cape Meares National Wildlife Refuge is located approximately ten miles west of the town of Tillamook. When approaching Tillamook on US Highway 101, follow signs for the Three Capes Scenic Route and the town of Oceanside then turn west to the parking lot for Cape Meares.