The Oregon Recreation Report (fishing, hunting, viewing), updated Wednesday, March 5, by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife

WILLAMETTE ZONE

Willamette, Santiam Memorial Day closure for boat race

The Oregon State Marine Board is taking public comments through March 31 on hosting the 2008 World Championship Boat Race, May 24-26, which would temporarily close portions of the Willamette and Santiam Rivers. Find out details and how to comment at the link below:

http://www.boatoregon.com/OSMB/news/2008/BoatRaceRel.shtml

STOCKING SCHEDULE

ODFW will stock EE Wilson and Junction City Ponds with legal and larger rainbow trout. Walter Wirth Lake and Walling Pond in Salem were stocked with trout last week.

The North Willamette Watershed District will stock several ponds during the week of March 10th in preparation of better weather and increased angling effort in local lakes and ponds. The following ponds will be stocked with 1,000 to 2,000 legal sized trout the week of the 10th: Benson Lake, Bethany Pond, Blue Lake, Commonwealth Lake, Dorman Pond, Huddleston Pond (+larger & trophy trout), Mt. Hood College Pond, Sheridan Pond (+larger & trophy trout), and Timber Lake. Timber Lake, located off Hwy 224 east of Estacada, is back on the stocking schedule after several years absence and anglers should find good access and opportunity in a beautiful location outside the Metro area. Contact the ODFW District office in Clackamas (971-673-6000) for more information on specific lakes or ponds in the area.

Creswell Pond (Garden Lake) and Dexter Reservoir, scheduled to be stocked this week, will not be due to slower than anticipated fish growth resulting from cold water temperatures.

Bag limits and size restrictions have been lifted on Roslyn Lake in preparation of lake drawdown which is expected to start in early May of this year. Anglers are allowed by temporary rule to harvest as many trout, bass, crappie, or catfish as they would like from the lake prior to the lake being closed during drawdown. ODFW staff will recover as many fish from the lake as possible prior to drawdown in order to transfer them to other standing waters.

See South Willamette and North Willamette stocking schedules.

ALTON BAKER CANOE CANEL- ODFW stocked this waterbody at park in Eugene with 2,000 fish last week including 400 larger trout.

CLACKAMAS RIVER: steelhead

The Clackamas River is experiencing its typical mid-winter slow period with limited catch and effort throughout the lower river. The river went up over the weekend which could bring some fresh fish into the system and water temperature has warmed into the lower 40's. Conditions are good and we anticipate winter steelhead will be entering the Clackamas for the next couple of months so don't give up hope. Get out there and give it a try as it is bound to turn back on at any time.

There are still no reports of any spring chinook in the river and anglers continue to see a few summer steelhead in the Willamette and Lower Clack. Most of these fish will remain in the lower river below Carver until water temperature warms into the 50s later in spring.

Clackamas Hatchery will begin releasing hatchery spring Chinook and steelhead into the river next week so keep that in mind when trying to fish with bait. Switch to artificial lures if possible to reduce unintentional catch and mortality of hatchery smolts.

Boaters will find good ramp availability at Clackamette, Riverside, Carver, Barton, Feldheimers, and McIver Park.

Bank anglers need to be aware that with the new fish ladder at Rivermill Dam there has been a change to the angling deadline. This change is particularly noticeable on the McIver Park side of the river where a new fishway entrance was installed. The new angling deadline is clearly visible in bright yellow painted rocks on both the park side and Estacada side. Anglers must adhere to this deadline, making sure to fish and cast downstream of the line. The new deadline is being strictly enforced by law enforcement.

The summer steelhead radio tracking study is all but over in the Clackamas River. We will attempt to track fish using mobile trackers at least through February, but the main focus of the study is complete. ODFW and OSU released 80 hatchery summer steelhead implanted with radio-tags into the Clackamas River downstream of River Mill Dam as part of a study to monitor adult summer steelhead behavior during the summer of 2007. The fish in the study can be identified by an antenna trailing from the abdomen, and a blue plastic tag carrying a unique number inserted just below the dorsal fin on the back of the fish. The department reminds anglers it is against the law for anyone to retain a radio-tagged fish in this river, and these fish must be released unharmed. In addition, these fish have been anesthetized for surgery to implant the radio tags and are not fit for human consumption. Anyone who catches one of the tagged summer steelhead is asked to record the number printed on the plastic tag, without removing the tag from the fish, and notify ODFW of the date and location where the fish was caught and released by calling the Clackamas Office any time at (971) 673-6000. Anyone witnessing a tagged fish in the water is also asked to call. All reports of tagged fish will provide important information for the study.

DETROIT, GREEN PETER AND FOSTER RESERVOIRS: rainbow trout

Detroit Reservoir is filling, but is lower than expected for this time of year. Good numbers of holdover rainbow trout, chinook, and kokanee are available and relatively close to the surface since the water is still cold. Still fishing or trolling with bait should work well. The only boat ramp that currently allows access to the water is the old road at Mongold State Park.

Green Peter Reservoir is also filling, but still lower than normal for early March. Thistle Creek is the only usable boat ramp. Kokanee, chinook, and some rainbow trout are available. The kokanee fishery starts to really pick up in the early spring so can begin in March, though sometimes is later.

EAGLE CREEK: steelhead

Water temperature remains in the upper 30s but is anticipated to gradually warm with the warming trend in air temperature. Try jig and bobber for steelhead in the lower, clearer waters of Eagle Creek. Spawning of steelhead at the hatchery ceased on February 27, but collection of steelhead into the hatchery will continue. Hatchery-origin fish will be removed and native-origin fish will be returned to Eagle Creek.

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.

JUNCTION CITY POND: rainbow trout

Will be stocked again this week.

NORTH AND SOUTH SANTIAM: steelhead

Santiam flows are moderate and relatively stable as reservoirs are filling. Conditions are good. Though counts over the falls at Oregon City are still low, some new steelhead are in the rivers.

SANDY RIVER: Steelhead

Catch rate on the Sandy River continued to cool over the past week despite a good rain and increased flow over the past weekend. Sandy Hatchery staff report that quite a few fish are waiting to enter the hatchery trap indicating that fish are still moving through the system. We may need to wait for another good, warm rain for the bite to pick back up. Similar to the Clackamas, we still expect winter steelhead to continue entering the Sandy through April so there are plenty of opportunities to come, particularly with spring Chinook and summer steelhead just around the corner. No reports of springers yet, but at least one dozen summers have been landed by local guides and their clients.

The Fish and Wildlife Commission adopted new sport-fishing regulations for the Sandy River which move the fishing deadline (or boundary) upstream to the mouth of the Salmon River (near Brightwood) began Jan. 1, 2008. There are reports of a few wild fish being caught and released in the newly opened section of river above Marmot Dam. There are few hatchery winter steelhead available above Cedar Creek, but there is some opportunity for catch and release of wild fish for those interested in a more remote angling experience. The new area should provide good opportunity for hatchery spring Chinook that stray past Cedar Creek starting in May and running through early July. All current fishing regulations in the lower river apply to the newly extended area.

This provides an additional seven miles of fishing opportunity in an area that was historically popular among anglers before 1999 regulations closed the area. The changes are the result of the removal of Marmot Dam, which made the current angling deadline of "200 feet below the dam" obsolete.

The changes at the old Marmot Dam site and the movement of material have the potential to affect conditions downstream of that area. The entire section of river near the dam removal site is a hazardous construction zone with no public entrance allowed at this time. Access to the PGE property at the previous site of Marmot Dam is still closed to all public access.

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

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

WALTER WIRTH LAKE/WALLING POND: Rainbow trout

Walter Wirth Lake and Walling Pond in Salem were recently stocked with trout.

WILLAMETTE RIVER: sturgeon, winter steelhead, spring chinook

Spring chinook fishing is picking up with a few caught last week in the lower river around Multnomah Channel and about a fish per day in the middle river near Sellwood Bridge. Sturgeon catch has stabilized into lower bite; fishing effort continues to be high in St John's area. Steelhead fishing is fair in the lower river.

Fishery managers set Columbia River spring Chinook seasons. Willamette River and Willamette tributaries are open seven-days-per-week for spring chinook; there is a one-fish daily bag limit beginning March 1. More information

The Oregon/Washington Compact adopted the following rules at the Dec. 13 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 Jan. 1 through July 31 and Oct. 1 through Dec. 31, 2008.

* Prohibit the retention of sturgeon three days per week on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday during Jan. 1-July 31 and Oct. 1 through Dec. 31, 2008 and seven days per week during Aug. 1 through Sept. 30, 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.

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.

WILLAMETTE ZONE HUNTING

EVENTS

BOW Event, A Day at the Archery Range, Mar. 15

Douglas Ridge Rifle Club Eagle Creek

This workshop is designed for beginners, but all skill levels are welcome. This hands-on session will teach you the basics of archery and bowhunting. The Douglas Ridge Rifle Club sits on about 130 acres of woods (primarily Douglas Fir), open meadows, and a ridge rising 400 feet above the flatland in Eagle Creek, Oregon. Archery and bowhunting basics will be covered including safety, equipment and clothing. Participants will have ample time on the range to try different types of bows, including longbows, recurves, and compounds, and will have a chance to shoot at a variety of targets. Registration Limit: 30 Workshop Notes: All needed equipment and lunch will be provided. Participants are welcome to bring their own bows.

OPEN: Cougar

Cougar n In the North Willamette Watershed, cougar are more commonly found in the Santiam unit than in coastal units such as the Scappoose, northeast Stott Mt. and the eastern portions of the Trask. 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 along snow covered roads or 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. Tracking cougar through fresh snow is a challenging way to hunt, but hunters are reporting improved success with this technique. 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.

FERN RIDGE WILDLIFE AREA

All hunting seasons are now closed. The East Coyote, West Coyote, Fisher Butte, and Royal Amazon units remain closed to all entry Sunday-Friday until March 14 to provide waterfowl sanctuary. These units are open only on Saturdays for hiker access (no hunting or discharge of firearms). Visitors are reminded that dogs must be on leash at all times outside of game bird hunting season.

EE WILSON WILDLIFE AREA

All hunting is now over for the year but fishing remains good thanks to regular trout stockings by ODFW.

WILLAMETTE ZONE VIEWING

EVENTS

Natural Gardening Seminar, March 8 from 10:00 a.m. to noon, at Portland Audubon

Ever wonder how to create your own little natural haven at home? Why not grow your own personal park-a place to relax and appreciate nature just steps from your door. Beautiful native plants, simple water features and effective natural gardening techniques will make your yard buzz with hummingbirds and native pollinators and provide habitat for songbirds, butterflies and frogs. Enjoy our beautiful nature sanctuary as you learn to grow native plants and attract and recognize backyard wildlife. Free. Advance registration required; call Metro Recycling Information at 503-234-3000.

Northern Pygmy Owls, March 11, 7 p.m., Audubon Society of Portland

Pygmy-Owls are tough, mysterious little birds that are found in forest and woodland habitats throughout Oregon including the Portland metro area. At only 6½n7 inches in height, pygmy-owls are fierce predators that will prey upon mammals, birds, reptiles and insects. Nature Night at Heron Hall is free and open to the public. More details

Hike on the Wetlands, Jackson Bottom Wetlands Preserve, March 15, April 19, and May 17, Hillsboro, 9:00am-noon

Discover the magic of on this hike. The emphasis is on birds, but participants will have the opportunity to enjoy the natural world and all of its creatures. The terrain is mostly flat, and the pace will be slow so we don't scare away the critters. Dress for the weather, wear shoes or boots that can get wet and/or muddy. Bring binoculars and a field guide if you have them. Register early through Hillsboro Parks and Recreation, 503-681-5397 ($3.00 per person). More information.

Peregrines of Portland: Birds, Bridges and Urban Biodiversity, Tuesday, March 25, 7 p.m., Oregon Zoo in Portland

During his lecture, Bob Sallinger, conservation director, Audubon Society of Portland, reveals the secrets of these swift birds of prey, and discusses the 20-year effort to restore them to the skies of Portland. He also brings attention to the important role urban areas can play in protecting and restoring wildlife populations. $8 members. $10 non-members. Visit the Oregon Zoo Web site for more information.

Spring Cleaning is for the birds

Spring is just around the corner. Now is just a good time to clean out your songbird and wood duck boxes. Always remove old nesting material to encourage birds to take up residence. The most common birds that use songbird nest boxes are bluebird, swallow, chickadee, nuthatch and wren. Other species that can use other types of nesting boxes and nesting structures are wood duck, Canada goose, purple martin, robin, flicker, downy woodpecker, screech and barn owl and sparrow hawk.

Get Ready for Summer Hummers

It time to hang up your feeders for our summer hummers. Avoid the commercial hummingbird mixture you can buy in the store as the red dye can produce digestive problems for these small birds. You can make your own hummingbird food utilizing a 4 parts water to 1 part sugar ratio but always make sure the sugar goes completely into solution before hanging up for use.

Corvallis Area

EE Wilson Wildlife Area

NEW: Wildlife viewing is good with waterfowl, shorebirds and neotropical migrants beginning to arrive. Deciduous trees do not have leaves allowing better viewing.

Attention photographers: Starting April 1, people can use the photography blind on the Wildlife Area. Staff will feed daily so there will be good photo opportunities for waterfowl including mallards, wood duck, hooded merganser, ring-necked duck, western Canada goose. Broods are common. Snipe and other shorebirds are periodically seen. Call the office to make a reservation, (541) 745-5334.

Find directions to EE Wilson Wildlife Area.

Eugene Area

Delta Ponds

Many types of waterfowl and raptors currently use the area. With the higher water and earlier dusk, now is a good time to see beaver. Best viewing time is around sunset and sunrise. When viewing wildlife, please remember to be respectful and try not to disturb the animals' natural behaviors. Sometimes, the best way to view animals is from inside your vehicle as to not frighten the birds/animals away.

Sauvie Island

Sauvie Island Wildlife Area

There are lots of bald eagles to see on the Wildlife Area. Birders and will also enjoy seeing many mallards and merganser as well as numerous other types of birds in the waterways and along the roadside on the wildlife area.

Great flocks of cacklers and snow geese are easily viewable. Viewing areas currently open to the public are Coon Point, the Eastside Viewing Platform and Rentenaar Road.

A parking permit is required for the Sauvie Island Wildlife Area and can be purchased at ODFW Point of Sale vendors. Find directions to Sauvie Island Wildlife Area on the ODFW Web site.

Springfield Area

Fern Ridge Wildlife Area

Flights of geese can be observed at Fern Ridge Lake arriving every evening through the winter migration season-about the end of March. A good vantage point at sunset is the Royal Avenue parking lot. Royal Avenue and the trail to the Fisher Butte viewing blind remain open all day every day year round. In addition to viewing the recently completed Caspian tern nesting island, there are an estimated 58,000 Canada geese that are using the lake as an evening roost site. When the flocks arrive at dark (and depart at sunrise), it is a great sight.

Visitors are reminded that from January 28 through March 14 closures are in effect in certain areas to provide waterfowl sanctuary. The East Coyote, West Coyote, Fisher Butte, and Royal Amazon units are open Saturdays only for hiking and birdwatching during this period and are closed to all public access Sunday through Friday each week until March 14.

Directions to Fern Ridge Wildlife Area

NORTHWEST ZONE

FISHING

NORTH COAST LAKES

Trout stocking is scheduled for the week of March 3 in Hebo, North, South, and Town lakes. However, access to Hebo, North, and South lakes may still be restricted by snow in the coast range. Stocking of these lakes may have to be delayed until roads re-open.

The fishing dock at Lake Lytle was heavily damaged by this winter's storms. The dock is currently unusable, and much of it has broken off. It will likely be quite a while before the dock is repaired or replaced.

Forest roads leading to several local lakes may be damaged or blocked. Anglers should check with the appropriate land manager about road conditions prior to heading out.

MID COAST LAKES

The rainbow trout stocking season is underway and will extend into June. Here is a list of lakes to be stocked in March with approximate stocking dates, number of fish and target size to be released. Please note that stocking dates are approximate and subject to change.

Big Creek Reservoir 1, 3-17-08, 1000 trout at 3 per pound and 100 trout at 1.5 per pound.

Big Creek Reservoir 2, 3-17-08, 200 trout at 0.5 per pound and 1800 trout at 3 per pound and 1800 trout at 1.5 per pound.

Elbow Lake, 3-18-08, 600 trout at 1.5 per pound.

Alder Lake, 3-19-08, 36 trout at 0.5 per pound and 100 at 1.5 per pound and 850 at 3.0 per pound.

Buck Lake, 3-19-08, 36 trout at 0.5 per pound and 100 at 1.5 per pound and 850 at 3.0 per pound.

Dune Lake, 3-19-08, 36 trout at 0.5 per pound and 100 at 1.5 per pound and 850 at 3.0 per pound.

Eckman Lake, 3-19-08, 2000 trout at 3.0 per pound.

Georgia and North Georgia Lakes, 3-19-08, 35 trout at 0.5 per pound and 150 at 3.0 per pound.

Olalla Reservoir, 3-19-08, 200 trout at 0.5 per pound and 1250 at 1.5 per pound and 2000 at 3.0 per pound.

Perkins Lake, 3-19-08, 36 trout at 0.5 per pound and 450 at 3.0 per pound.

Siltcoos Lagoon, 3-19-08, 36 trout at 0.5 per pound and 100 at 1.5 per pound and 850 at 3.0 per pound.

Carter Lake, 3-20-08, 2500 trout at 3.0 per pound.

Cleawox Lake, 3-20-08, 150 trout at 0.5 per pound and 3000 at 3.0 per pound.

Lost Lake, 3-20-08, 750 trout at 1.5 per pound.

Mercer Lake, 3-20-08, 2250 trout at 1.5 per pound.

Munsel Lake, 3-20-08, 150 trout at 0.5 per pound and 1500 at 1.5 per pound.

Siltcoos Lake, 3-21-08, 1000 trout at 1.5 per pound

Thissel Pond, 3-21-08, 40 trout at 0.5 per pound and 1000 at 3.0 per pound.

Woahink Lake, 3-21-08, 1000 trout at 1.5 per pound.

Devils Lake, 3-24-08, 6500 trout at 3.0 per pound.

ALSEA RIVER: winter steelhead

Fishing has slowed but still fair in the upper river. More wild fish are starting to return and anglers are advised to not remove the fish from the water if possible while releasing. Most fishing pressure is occurring along the N. Fork and around the Alsea Hatchery. River conditions are expected to be fair to good this week. During high murky flows, anglers should concentrate in the upper basin as river conditions improve faster.

Current river levels: http://www.nwrfc.noaa.gov/river/station/flowplot/flowplot.cgi?TIDO3

KILCHIS RIVER: steelhead

Winter steelhead angling has been slow as the river is low and clear. Most of the fish in the river are of wild origin.

NECANICUM RIVER: steelhead

Winter steelhead angling has been slow as the river is low and clear. The number of hatchery fish has dropped off considerably. Boaters should use extreme caution. Log and debris jams may be present in one or more locations. The Kloochy Creek Park bridge is now open to vehicle access.

NEHALEM RIVER AND SALMONBERRY RIVER:

Winter steelhead angling is slow to fair, but the lower river has good color. The number of wild fish entering the system is increasing.

The Nehalem River Road is closed at the Salmonberry River. Flood waters blew out the bridge over the Salmonberry. Use alternate routes.

NORTH FORK NEHALEM RIVER: steelhead

Angling for winter steelhead has been slow as the river is low and clear. A few hatchery fish may still be available, but expect to see more wild fish in the catch. Boaters beware-downed trees or other hazards are creating problems. Anglers may call (503) 368-5670 for recorded fishing information.

NESTUCCA RIVER AND THREE RIVERS: steelhead

Winter steelhead angling has been slow to fair in Three Rivers depending on water conditions. Angling in the mainstem has been fair to good when water conditions permit. Hatchery fish are available in Three Rivers and the mainstem up to Blaine. Surplus hatchery fish have been recycled to Cloverdale when available. Wild fish are increasingly showing in the catch also.

SALMON RIVER: winter steelhead

Catch-and-release fishing for wild winter steelhead fishing is slow to fair.

SILETZ RIVER: winter steelhead

Winter steelhead fishing is fair throughout the mainstem. More wild fish are returning and anglers are advised to leave the fish in the water while releasing. Drift boat angling from Moonshine Park to Morgan Park (as river conditions allow) is fair. Bank fishing around Moonshine Park up to the fishing deadline is good to fair as many fish have moved up into the upper reaches. Floating and/or back bouncing fresh baits, jigs and lures can be very productive. During high murky river conditions, anglers should concentrate in the upper basin as fish will continue to move upstream.

SIUSLAW RIVER: winter steelhead

Winter steelhead fishing is fair to good with most pressure in the upper reaches around Whittaker Creek. Drifting from Whittaker Creek down to Linslaw Park should continue to produce fish and bank fishing from Whittaker Creek to Wildcat Creek should continue to be fair. More wild steelhead are starting to return and anglers are reminded to keep the fish in the water while releasing. During high and murky river conditions anglers should concentrate in the upper basin as conditions improve faster.

TILLAMOOK BAY: sturgeon

Angling for sturgeon has been fair to good. Fish the channel edges on the outgoing tides for the best results.

WILSON RIVER: steelhead

Angling for winter steelhead has generally been good as long as the river remains fishable. Fish are well distributed in the river system. All methods should produce fish, with side drifting from boats or bobber and jigs being very popular. Drift fishing from bank or boat will also produce fish. A tree is partially blocking the river between the mine field and Mills Bridge. Boaters should use extreme caution.

TRASK RIVER: steelhead

Winter steelhead angling is fair to good when river conditions are good. Fish are being caught up to the forks and in the north and south forks. Wild fish are making up the bulk of the catch, but some hatchery fish are also caught occasionally.

Current river levels for major north coast streams: http://ahps2.wrh.noaa.gov/ahps2/index.php?wfo=pqr

YAQUINA RIVER: winter steelhead

Winter steelhead fishing is slow in Big Elk Creek with the best success occurring in the upper basin. Bank fishing works the best along the Big Elk using a variety of lures, jigs and egg-type flies. There is a mixture of public and private lands along this stretch, anglers should use caution to avoid crossing private property.

NORTHWEST ZONE HUNTING

Hunter Education course set for March

Spaces are filling up fast for the first hunter education course offered in Tillamook County (on March 10, 11, 12, 17, 18, and 19 from 6 n 8:30 p.m.) Pre-registration is required; call Dan Cotton at 815-7052 (work) to register. Cost is $10 per student. For more information on hunter education, include other class options, visit

www.dfw.state.or.us/outdoor_skills/hunter/index.asp

OPEN: Cougar

Cougar - All indicators point to the north coast as having relatively low cougar densities, when compared to most of the rest of the state. However, they can still be located, especially if hunters are dedicated to using calls as their primary strategy. Cougar are probably most effectively hunted by long and persistent calling with a predator call.

NORTHWEST ZONE (North Coast) VIEWING

EVENTS

Mark Your Calendars for the SOLV Spring Beach Cleanup! March 29

In 2007 more than 10,000 volunteers helped to clean up the 360 miles of Oregon coastline. Simply bring your friends and family to one of the 44 check-in sites at 10:00 a.m. The map is available online. For more information contact: pamela@solv.org or call 800-333-SOLV x302.

Bald Eagle Viewing

The winter season is a great time to see bald eagles. On the north coast, bald eagles can be seen in estuaries including Tillamook Bay, Young's Bay and Netarts Bay. Nehalem Bay, Sand Lake and Twilight Eagle Sanctuary (about 25 miles east of Astoria) are also good viewing locations. To get started, look for a white spot among the tall conifers at the edge of the bay. The white spot will be the eagle's white feathered head. Bald eagles are often found near water with large numbers of waterfowl or fish.

Shorebirds

Some shorebirds spend the winter along Oregon's coast and can be seen for much of the year. During the winter look for Semipalmated Plover, Black Turnstone, Surfbird, Sanderling, Least Sandpiper, Dunlin, and the Common Snipe, among others.

Astoria Area

A terrific place to view shorebirds is just off parking lot D of Ft. Stevens State Park. From there, look northwards from the parking lot toward the ponds and surrounding flat lands. They are protected from the ocean by the jetty to the west and the river just over the small dune on the north side of the flats. Try a spotting scope or binoculars to get a better view of the birds.

Pacific City Area

Nestucca Bay National Wildlife Refuge is home to a wide variety of Canada geese, and is located conveniently along Hwy. 101, east of Pacific City. The refuge is one place where it's possible to see Taverner's, Lesser, Western, Cackling, Aleutian and Dusky geese in close proximity. Some birds are banded with colored neck collars. Binoculars and/or spotting scopes are very helpful, especially for identifying collars.

Tillamook Area

Three Arch Rocks National Wildlife Refuge is located near Oceanside. It offers wildlife viewing opportunities year-round, not just during the seabird breeding season. Now, it is not uncommon to see bald eagles and/or peregrine falcons roosting on top of the taller rocks. Nearly always present are the Steller sea lions, which hang out on the lower rocks along the surf line. Unlike their cousins, the California sea lion, the Stellers are not nearly as plentiful and are listed under the Endangered Species Act. To view them effectively, bring binoculars, or better yet a spotting scope.

SOUTHWEST ZONE

FISHING

APPLEGATE RIVER: trout, steelhead

The Applegate River is open for adipose fin-clipped trout and steelhead. The river is cold and clear making fishing slow. Fish are being caught by anglers fly-fishing with egg patters or casting small lures.

APPLEGATE RESERVOIR: trout, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass

Trout fishing has been fair. Anglers should try fishing a variety of depths off of points and tributaries; night crawlers, small spinners, and streamer flies have been working the best. Few warm water fish are being caught.

The current reservoir level is 1928 feet above sea level and the French Gulch boat ramp is open. As of March 3, the outflow was 106 cubic feet per second and 40 degrees F.

BABYFOOT LAKE: rainbow trout

No new report

CHETCO RIVER: steelhead

Steelhead fishing will be slow until the Chetco receives enough rain to bring in a few more fresh fish. The peak is over, but anglers can continue to have great action on kelts (spawned-out fish) and some fresh fish. Some of the best action can be had pulling plugs or swinging flies.

Anglers have been doing the best early morning or late afternoon when the sun is off the water. Drift boat anglers will want to hit the river once it reaches 4000 cfs and dropping. Keep an eye on the flow: http://waterdata.usgs.gov/or/nwis/uv?14400000.

COOS COUNTY LAKES: trout, bass

Trout stocking is set to begin again the week of March 3. Legal trout will be stocked in the following: Bradley Lake, Empire Lakes, Saunders Lake, Johnson Mill Pond, and Powers Pond. Besides holdover trout from previous stockings, most local lakes hold warmwater fish species such as bass, bluegill and crappie. Fishing for warmwater fish will improve as water temps start to increase.

COOS RIVER BASIN: winter steelhead

Angling effort has dropped off but steelhead fishing is still fair in the Coos basin when river conditions cooperate. The less crowded conditions give anglers more room and the ability to fish areas that may have been too crowded earlier in the year. Water conditions have been on the low and clear side but fish are still being caught. Anglers may want to switch to smaller gear and lighter leaders during this low water period. The West Fork Millicoma has good public access on the Elliott State Forest where many steelhead are caught. This fork will come back into shape quickly after high water periods but also gets extremely low and clear during dry periods. The Millicoma Interpretive Center has a small section of closed water in front of the facility with fishable water downstream. The Nesika Park area on the East Fork also has good public access. Access to the South Fork above Dellwood requires a permit from Weyerhaeuser Co., available at Airport Heights and TNT Markets. Weyerhaeuser is no longer issuing these permits at their Dellwood office. The stretch of river above Dellwood has good bank access and an acclimation site near mile 5 where fish will hold.

Perch anglers have been doing well fishing in Coos Bay. Anglers should cast their bait, shrimp works well, around rock or other structure.

For a change of pace, anglers could consider going sturgeon fishing. Popular sturgeon spots are just upstream of the highway 101 bridge for boaters. Bank anglers catch some sturgeon from the Coos River downstream of the confluence with the Millicoma. Sturgeon also hang out at this confluence.

COQUILLE RIVER BASIN: winter steelhead

Steelhead fishing is still good when the river conditions cooperate, with some large fish showing up in the catch this year. Laverne Park on the North Fork has had some good days recently and provides good bank access for anglers. The South Fork, which is popular with drift boaters and also has some bank access, has had a great year and is still fishing well; it fishes best when the Powers gauge is below 4 ft. Steelhead have been observed in the East Fork, which has steelhead returning to an acclimation site near Frona Park. The Middle Fork Coquille does not have a hatchery program but is a nice place for anglers wanting more solitude that don't mind releasing their fish.

COOPER CREEK RESERVOIR: rainbow trout

Cooper Creek was stocked with some 6 n 8 pound trophy trout and about 1,000 catchable-sized trout a few weeks ago for the Umpqua Fishery Enhancement Derby Kids' Day. The reservoir was also stocked this week with some additional catchable trout. Nearby Plat I reservoir was also stocked this week with about 500 catchable trout. With the warmer valley temperatures, the water should have warmed up to improve the chances of catching some of these trout.

DIAMOND LAKE: rainbow trout

The lake is closed to fishing until April 26, 2008.

ELK/SIXES RIVER: steelhead

Steelhead fishing has slowed in both rivers as most of the steelhead are spawning. Anglers should keep an eye on the weather and look for some new fish to enter the rivers on the next freshet. Elk River fishes best at 5.0 feet and dropping. Anglers can call Elk River Hatchery (541-332-7025) to get the latest gauge heights.

EMIGRANT RESERVOIR: rainbow trout

Trout fishing has improved with warmer temperatures. Anglers should focus on shallow areas where the water warms the fastest. Songer Wayside and the dam are the best areas to fish. Small spinners or streamer flies have been getting the best results. Bass and crappie fishing remain slow.

FISH LAKE: rainbow trout

With angling pressure low, Fish Lake is a good place to fish in the winter for trout. Try bait, spinners, and lures. Anglers should be prepared for winter conditions and varying levels of ice coverage; thin ice can be very dangerous.

FLORAS LAKE: rainbow trout, cutthroat

Trout fishing is starting to pick up on Floras Lake. The lake is best fished from a boat as there is very little good bank access. The larger cutthroat are beginning to stage off the creek mouths and will be spawning for the next couple of weeks. Anglers should release these fish to continue on there spawning migration. Anglers can put a boat in at Boice Cope County Park. Anglers should keep an eye on the weather and target the lake when winds are light.

GALESVILLE RESERVIOR: rainbow trout, bass

Galesville Reservoir is open to angling year-round. Fishing for trout is currently fair. Some anglers report seeing external "worms" on a few of the trout, and in some trout's gills. These are copepods, a fish parasite, which occur naturally throughout the watershed. The copepods can be removed and the fish safely consumed. The harvestable trout were 10n12 inches. The 25,000 sub-legal size trout which were stocked last fall in Galesville are approaching legal size. Anglers fishing the lake last weekend reported catching some fish just shy of legal size, plus the larger trout. Galesville will also be stocked this week with an additional 2,000 legal sized trout.

GARRISON LAKE: rainbow trout, cutthroat

Garrison is a good bet for rainbow trout and cutthroat. The larger cutthroat are beginning to stage off the creek mouths and will be spawning for the next couple of weeks. Anglers should release these fish to continue on there spawning migration. Bank access is limited to the State Park or 12th street boat ramp. The best way to fish Garrison is slow trolling wedding ring spinners or flies. 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 includes bluegill, crappie, and bass. The pond will also be stocked with a couple hundred trout 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.

LAKE SELMAC: rainbow trout

Lake Selmac has recently been stocked with legal-sized rainbow trout and fishing should be good. Trout anglers use floating bait or worms with a weight about 2 feet above the hook. Casting and retrieving lures or flies can be effective, along with trolling lures or flies from a boat. Fish near cover. Largemouth bass and panfish are also available but fishing for them will be slow until the weather warms up.

LOST CREEK RESERVOIR: rainbow trout

Lost Creek has recently been stocked with legal-sized rainbow trout. Anglers should try trolling a variety of depths using worms or spinners.

PACIFIC OCEAN AND BEACHES: surfperch, bottomfish

Late winter/early spring is the best time for surfperch fishing from the beaches. 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.

Bottom fishing is generally good in the winter when the water conditions are calm but no reports hve come in recently. Very little effort has occurred recently due to rough seas. Anglers should be cautious of the ocean and bar conditions which can change quickly.

POWERS POND: trout, warmwater fish

Holdover trout are available as well as warmwater fish that are present all year. The first trout stocking of the year is scheduled for the week of March 3.

REINHART PARK POND: trout, warm water fish

Reinhart Park Pond (formerly All Sports Pond) in Grants Pass is scheduled to be stocked with legal-sized rainbow trout this week. Largemouth bass and bluegill are available; anglers should try fishing for these fish in the afternoon when temperatures are warmer. Fishing with nightcrawlers or casting small spinners or spoons may work the best. Fly anglers may want to try casting leech or wooly bugger-type streamers.

ROGUE RIVER, LOWER: steelhead, chinook

Bank and boat anglers are all catching fish in the lower river. Boat anglers are catching steelhead below the mouth of the Illinois side drifting eggs or anchoring on the inside bends running plugs. Most of the gravel bars between the Ferry Hole and Quosatana Creek campground have been producing fish for anglers plunking spin and glows.

A few boats have been targeting spring Chinook, but no reports of any fish being caught. Anglers can expect the first spring Chinook to be caught in the next couple of weeks. Anglers are reminded that there are new regulations in effect for spring Chinook on the Rogue River.

Rogue River flows: http://waterdata.usgs.gov/or/nwis/uv?14372300

ROGUE RIVER, MIDDLE: chinook, trout, steelhead

The flow on March 3 was 3,110 cubic feet per second at Grants Pass. Fishing has been good in the Grants Pass area and down by Galice. Yarn balls, roe clusters, and plugs have been working well.

ROGUE RIVER, UPPER: trout, steelhead, chinook

As of March 3, the flow out of William Jess Dam (Lost Creek) was 703 cubic feet per second. 922 winter steelhead have been counted at Gold Ray Dam as of February 26.

Angling continues to improve on the Upper Rogue. Winter steelhead are being caught by drifting egg patterns, bug and bubbles, and small bugs. Anglers are reminded that even during high water and turbid conditions along most of the Rogue, conditions are usually good between Big Butte Creek and Cole Rivers Hatchery where reservoir outflows predominate.

SODA SPRINGS RESERVOIR: brown and rainbow trout

Soda Springs reservoir is open for trout angling, but tributaries upstream of the reservoir are closed to angling until April 26, 2008.

SMITH RIVER: steelhead

The Smith is currently open for adipose-fin clipped steelhead from the mouth upstream to Sisters Creek on the mainstem and the North Fork Smith from the mouth upstream to Bridge 10. Good numbers of stripers have recently been sighted in the North Fork of the Smith River. 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 LAKES AND PONDS: trout

Fishing is slow on all lakes and ponds.

SOUTH COAST STREAMS: steelhead

Trout season is closed in the Umpqua, Smith River, South Umpqua, North Umpqua and Cow Creek basins.

SOUTH COAST BEACHES:

Perch fishing is picking up on many of the beaches around Port Orford, Gold Beach, and Brookings. The best conditions for catching perch are an incoming tide and low surf.

TENMILE BASIN: yellow perch, trout, largemouth bass, winter steelhead, warmwater fish

Steelhead have been showing up in Tenmile Creek with fish being caught in Spinreel Park and below. Spinreel Park has good bank access. Anglers willing to walk the sand dunes downstream will find additional space and good chances at catching fish. This lake fed system is often clear and fishable when other local waters are high and muddy.

Tenmile Lakes are open year-round, and holdover trout are available. Warmwater fish species such as bass, bluegill and crappie are in Tenmile Lakes. As we move into spring, sunny days will start to warm the water and improve fishing.

TOKETEE LAKE: brown trout

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

UMPQUA ESTUARY: sturgeon

No new report.

UMPQUA HIGH LAKES AND FOREBAYS: trout

No new report. Diamond Lake and Lemolo Lake are closed. The other high cascade lakes are open year-round.

UMPQUA RIVER, MAINSTEM: steelhead

Good numbers of fish are being caught throughout the mainstem by bank anglers. The river is also fishable by boat, with no major storm events predicted this week to cause the water to rise or become muddy. Remember the mainstem Umpqua is now closed to wild steelhead harvest; it remains open year-round for adipose fin-clipped steelhead.

UMPQUA RIVER, NORTH: steelhead

The North has remained fishable. The most success has been from Colliding Rivers down. The warmer weather has gotten the fish on the move. There have been days now where over 100 steelhead have passed Winchester Dam. As of February 15, over 2,900 steelhead have passed Winchester Day. This puts the count to date at the 3rd highest this decade. Remember that only adipose fin-clipped steelhead can be harvested on the North Umpqua.

UMPQUA RIVER, SOUTH: steelhead

Angling conditions have been good recently. Hatchery fish have started to move into the South Umpqua and some nice sized fish are being caught. In addition to several good drift boat floats between Canyonville and Roseburg, there are good bank angling opportunities at Templeton Beach, the Myrtle Creek bridge, Stanton Park, and behind Seven Feathers Casino. Remember the South Umpqua is open for adipose fin-clipped steelhead only.

WILLOW LAKE: trout

Willow Lake has been stocked with legal-sized rainbow trout. The county park and boat ramp will open on April 1. Until then, bank anglers should try using floating bait or worms. Casting and retrieving lures or flies can also be effective. Anglers should be prepared for winter conditions. Fishing will probably be better in the afternoon during the warmer temperatures.

WINCHESTER BAY: sturgeon, chinook

Fishing remains slow, although spring chinook should start arriving soon.

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: http://www.dfw.state.or.us/MRP/shellfish/razorclams

The next few months are a great time for crabbing. Dock crabbers have been reporting some success. 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. Crab are generally full of meat and available in good numbers in coastal bays. The COOS BAY shoals (20-30 feet deep) along the inside of the North Spit from Empire to Charleston is a good area for crabbing. Public crabbing docks can be found in Winchester Bay, Bandon, Charleston, and Empire.

* Crabbing: http://www.dfw.state.or.us/MRP/shellfish/crab/index.asp

* 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: http://www.dfw.state.or.us/MRP/shellfish/razorclams

* Bay clams: http://www.dfw.state.or.us/MRP/shellfish/bayclams/

SOUTHWEST ZONE HUNTING

OPEN: Squirrel (portion of Rogue unit open year-round), cougar, goose (through March 10 in South Coast zone - private lands only)

SOUTH COAST ZONE GOOSE HUNT

This marks the second year of a late season hunt from Feb. 23 - March 10 on private lands in areas of Coos, Curry and Douglas counties west of Hwy 101. Thanks to ODFW's Access and Habitat program, which opens private lands to public hunting, hunters without private land access can reserve a hunt in the New River Access Area. Weekday slots are still available; contact ODFW's Gold Beach office for a map and landowner contacts (tel. 541-247-7605).

While there are few migratory geese in the South Coast zone area right now, hunting could pick up later in the season and resident geese can also be targeted. All Canada goose subspecies are open to hunting during this special hunt, as well as white-fronted geese. See the 2007-08 Game Bird Regulations for more information.

DOUGLAS COUNTY

Elk - A few controlled hunts are open. Elk populations are similar to last year.

Cougar n Opened on January 1, 2008. Hunting cougar is most successful adjacent to private land with high deer populations.

TRAPPING & HUNTING:

Furbearers n A reminder to trappers and hunters that specific licenses and tags are required to hunt many furbearer species, and hunters should refer to the Oregon Furbearer Trapping and Hunting Regulations for details. All species list below are currently open for trapping or hunting. Also, Raccoon pursuit season is currently open until March 15th.

Bobcat & Gray Fox n The season closes on February 29, 2008.

River Otter, Beaver & Raccoon n Healthy populations throughout Western Oregon. The last day of the season for these species is March 15, 2008.

Mink & Muskrat - Healthy populations throughout Western Oregon. The last day of the season for mink and muskrat is March 31, 2008.

JACKSON, JOSEPHINE, CURRY COUNTIES

Cougar - Cougars are plentiful, although they are a challenge to locate and harvest. Hunters are also having success in using predator calls for cougars while hunting coyotes. Locate major ridge lines and rocky out cropping as areas of travel within their home range. Hunters are reminded that they must bring their cougar into an ODFW office within 10 days to be checked and marked, refer to regulations for details.

Western Gray Squirrel - Portion of the Rogue unit is open year round with no bag limit; refer to regulations for more detail. Squirrels are found throughout this unit with only a few hunters taking advantage of this hunting opportunity. This time of year they may be hard to locate although they will be found throughout the winter months in oak savanna habitat to conifer habitat types. Squirrel hunting is a great opportunity for young hunters to hone their hunting skills.

TRAPPING AND HUNTING:

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

Bobcat, Red and Gray Fox - Healthy populations throughout Western Oregon.

River Otter, Beaver and Raccoon: Healthy populations throughout Western Oregon. The last day of the season for these species is March 15, 2008.

Mink and Muskrat - Healthy populations throughout Western Oregon. The last day of the season for mink and muskrat is March 31, 2008.

Marten - Good populations at higher elevations of the Cascades. The last day of the season is January 31, 2008.

COOS COUNTY

Cougar - Cougar populations appear to be healthy in Coos County. Cougars are very elusive and use very large home ranges so they represent a supreme challenge for hunters. To locate them, take clues from their prey (deer and elk). In areas with high densities of deer and elk, you may find success attracting cougars with predator calls. Cougar season continues through May.

Trapping and Hunting

Winter is a good time to hunt or trap furbearer species (generally hunted for their fur). There are many species to choose from. Some are predatory animals while others are herbivorous. Some are aquatic and others live on land. Coos County has many opportunities for hunting or trapping these species. Hunters or trappers interested in taking advantage of the many opportunities should contact their local ODFW office for information on these species and on the regulations pertaining to pursuing them.

SOUTHWEST ZONE VIEWING

EVENTS

Klamath Bird Observatory Family Birdwalk, Lithia Park, Ashland, March 1, 10 a.m.

Early Birders Get the Worm. Children ages 5-12 and their parents, join us for a fun-filled morning of birding. Learn how to use binoculars and field guides to spot our local feathered friends. Meet at 10am at Northwest Nature Shop (Ashland). Return at noon. To register, call 541-482-3241. For more information, see the KBO's newsletter (pdf).

Klamath Bird Observatory Birdwalk to ODFW Denman Wildlife Area and Touvelle Park, March 8, 8 a.m., Medford

Enjoy a Great Blue Heron rookery and birds of the Rogue River riparian habitat. Meet at 8 a.m. at Wild Birds Unlimited in Medford. Leader: Frank Lospalluto. To register, call 541-770-1104. For more information, see the KBO's newsletter (pdf).

Hawks and Waterfowl! Field Trip to Klamath Basin, March 15, 8 a.m., Ashland

Don't miss your final chance of the season to enjoy the many raptors of the Klamath Basin, now with the influx of migratory waterfowl in the area. Meet at 8 a.m. at Shop N Kart in Ashland to carpool. Return at 4:30 p.m. Advance registration required. Call 541-201-0866. $25, nonmembers, $15 members. For more information, see the KBO's newsletter (pdf).

Spring Cleaning is for the birds

Spring is just around the corner. Now is just a good time to clean out your songbird and wood duck boxes. Always remove old nesting material to encourage birds to take up residence. The most common birds that use songbird nest boxes are bluebird, swallow, chickadee, nuthatch and wren. Other species that can use other types of nesting boxes and nesting structures are wood duck, Canada goose, purple martin, robin, flicker, downy woodpecker, screech and barn owl and sparrow hawk.

Get Ready for Summer Hummers

It time to hang up your feeders for our summer hummers. Avoid the commercial hummingbird mixture you can buy in the store as the red dye can produce digestive problems for these small birds. You can make your own hummingbird food utilizing a 4 parts water to 1 part sugar ratio but always make sure the sugar goes completely into solution before hanging up for use.

Coos County

Winter is still holding on in Coos County, but spring is not far off. The occasional warm sunny day is sparking some spring-related activity among local bird populations and a few have started early nesting activity. However, most species are still behaving like winter is here. As the warm days become more frequent, many birds will become very busy with courtship and constructing nests.

It is not uncommon to be able to observe black bears on south slopes feeding on grass that is "greening up" this time of year.

NEW: A few early migrants are beginning to appear in the Coos County area. This week, there have been reports of black brant, a coastal goose, appearing in Coos Bay. Many of these birds winter in Mexico and nest above the Arctic Circle. On their way north, they stop in local bays and other areas to feed on vegetation like eel grass before continuing the trip.

There have also been reports of Aleutian Canada geese beginning to appear near the coast in the southern portion of the county. These birds winter in California and nest in the Aleutian Islands of Alaska. They stop in Oregon to feed in fields south of Bandon before continuing their migration.

Red-shoulder hawks

Over the past several years, the west coast population of red-shouldered hawks has been expanding north from California to Oregon. These birds are now year around residents in southwest Oregon. They have been seen in the Coquille Valley and in the vicinity of Coos Bay and Ten Mile Lakes.

Those interested in seeing them should spend time watching areas with mixed conifers and open grass meadows. The birds are generally shyer than red-tailed hawks. They can be difficult to observe because they tend to make short flights across openings rather than soaring.

Red-shouldered hawks are closely related to red-tailed hawks but are not the same. They are a large bird, about the size of a red-tailed hawk, with very colorful markings such as strikingly black and white banded tails and a red mark across their shoulder (thus the name) when perched. For more information.

Douglas County

Plan now for the songbirds and hummingbirds that visit your backyard. See information at top of this report.

Amphibians

The pacific (chorus) treefrog is starting to vocalize around ponds, puddles and other watered areas getting ready for spring breeding season. They can be heard vocalizing on warmer days and afternoons. For more information on this frog, visit the ODFW Web site.

Owls

Great horned owls and other smaller owls can be heard calling in the evenings or early mornings in areas of wooded habitats.

Turkey Vultures

Look for turkey vultures returning from their wintering areas to Southern Oregon in the next several weeks.

Jackson and Josephine Counties

Ducks and geese are abundant on the Denman Wildlife Area. Whetstone Pond near the area headquarters has good numbers of Canada geese and an occasional snow goose.

Many raptors, including bald eagles, are present in the Rogue Valley now. Good viewing is available on the two Table Rock trails, at Lost Creek Lake, and at the All Sports Park west of Grants Pass.

Tax time: Remember nongame wildlife

When completing your taxes for calendar year 2007, don't forget to make your donation for the nongame tax checkoff on your Oregon tax return. There are lots of animals that are not hunted and fished that need the support of Oregonians. Support Oregon's nongame wildlife.

CENTRAL ZONE

FISHING

EVENT: Wild redband trout and hatchery rainbow trout study presentation, March 19, 6:30 p.m., Bend

Ted Wise, ODFW fisheries biologist, will share details about an ODFW study on the genetics of wild redband trout and hatchery rainbow trout in Crane Prairie Reservoir. He will discuss results and implications of the study at the Central Oregon Flyfishers general meeting at the Bend Senior Center, 1600 SE Market Road. For more information, see the organization's online newsletter.

CROOKED RIVER BELOW BOWMAN DAM: redband trout

The Crooked is currently flowing at 144 cfs. Warmer weather is resulting in some nice hatches. Reports from anglers indicate fair success for redband. 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.

DESCHUTES RIVER:

Mouth to Warm Springs

Trout anglers will be successful by using nymphs. Water temperatures are cold but some bug hatches are occurring in the middle of the day. Anglers are reminded that the Deschutes River upstream from the northern boundary of the Warms Springs Reservation is closed to angling until April 26, 2008.

Lake Billy Chinook to Benham Falls

No anglers were interviewed as basis for a report. Please note that recent increased flow makes this stretch a little more of a challenge for anglers.

FALL RIVER:

No recent reports.

HAYSTACK RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, brown trout

No recent reports though there is good opportunity for brown trout and rainbow trout. Brown bullhead should be thinking about spawning. Anglers interested in targeting brown bullhead should work the south shoreline.

HOOD RIVER: summer steelhead, winter steelhead

The Hood River has very good visibility for steelhead fishing. Some bright winter fish are being caught. Fishing will continue to get better for the next month as the bulk of the hatchery and wild winter run return.

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

The Metolius arm opened to anglers beginning March 1. Anglers are reporting fair success for bull trout. There is also opportunity for rainbow trout, brown trout and kokanee.

METOLIUS RIVER:

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

OCHOCO RESERVOIR: rainbow trout

No recent reports though the boat ramp is open and the reservoir is ice free.

PINE HOLLOW RESERVOIR: rainbow trout

No recent reports, but fall and early winter fishing can be productive at Pine Hollow.

PRINEVILLE RESERVOIR: rainbow trout

No recent reports though there is good opportunity for rainbow trout.

ROCK CREEK RESERVOIR: rainbow trout

Low reservoir level will limit both access and success.

CENTRAL ZONE HUNTING

Open: Cougar

OCHOCO WILDLIFE DISTRICT

Snow at lower elevations is retreating and being replaced by wet soils and mud. Unless plowed, most roads at higher elevations on the Ochoco National Forest remain impassable due to snow. Recreational users should expect difficult driving conditions, and should check with local authorities regarding road conditions. Motorized access restrictions associated with the South Boundary Green Dot 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. Additional areas on the Ochoco National Forest and Prineville BLM have seasonal winter motorized access restrictions in effect to prevent soil damage and protect wintering antelope, deer, and elk. Maps of these areas are available from forest service and BLM offices in Prineville.

Prineville Reservoir Wildlife Management Area

The area is open to non-motorized access only to protect wintering deer and elk and prevent soil damage. Walk-in hunters, anglers, and other outdoor enthusiasts are welcome.

Cougar n Deer, pronghorn, and elk remain on winter ranges and cougar can be expected to be nearby. Winter ranges include private lands where permission for access is needed.

Coyote - Look for concentrations of wintering deer and pronghorn, and coyotes are likely nearby. Wintering deer and pronghorn are concentrating at lower elevations, including BLM lands in both the Ochoco and Maury units. Coyote hunters should keep a watchful eye out for cougars which also respond to predator calls.

THE DALLES WILDLIFE DISTRICT

Hunters pursuing mountain lions will find the best opportunities at lower elevations, near wintering big game herds.

CENTRAL ZONE VIEWING

High Desert Museum, Daily Wildlife Programs at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.

11 a.m. Live Bird Encounter: Meet an owl, hawk or raven at the Birds of Prey Center. 2 p.m. Otter Talk: Learn about the amazing world of the river otter. Get a chance to touch furs, skulls, and meet the Museum's river otter.

Behind-the-Scenes Wildlife Tours. Take a tour led by wildlife staff and learn about wildlife and their care. Get up close with unique program animals and birds. 2pm - 3pm. $20 members. $25 non-members. Weekends only. Call (382) 4754 ext. 241 to register or register online.

Prineville Area

Recent warmer temperatures have helped loosen winter's grip on portions of the area. Lower elevation all-weather roads are mostly snow free, and the Post/Paulina Highway viewing route is again providing opportunities to see wintering big game, local waterfowl, and winter transient eagles, hawks, falcons and other birds of prey.

The viewing route is an approximately 180 mile all day round trip southeast of Prineville through the small rural communities of Post and Paulina, and the Ochoco National Forest's Paulina Ranger Station. To access it, drivers will turn south from Hwy. 26 at the east end of Prineville onto the Paulina Highway, with some of the better viewing between mileposts 20 and 60. Approximately 4 miles east of Paulina, proceed north to the Paulina Ranger Station via Puett Road.

This time of year the weather can change quickly, and participants should be equipped with warm clothing, winter footwear, binoculars, camera, snacks, and a thermos with a warm beverage. Back country and less traveled roads remain unpredictable, and recreationalists with "cabin fever" are urged to use caution, consult weather forecasts, and check with state highway and local county agencies regarding road conditions.

Prineville Reservoir Wildlife Management Area

NEW: The Wildlife Area is open to foot and non-motorized travel and offers viewing opportunities for deer, and a wide variety of waterfowl, shorebirds and raptors. The north side access road, from either the Paulina Highway or Jasper closure gates, offers easy access and parking.

Visitors can tailor an outing to their own skill levels. The north side road is a native soil, level road which offers easy hiking and wonderful viewing opportunities of the Crooked River and reservoir. The adjacent slopes to the north offer steeper and more challenging hiking terrain, and the best areas to observe wintering big game and soaring raptors. Good footwear is a must as conditions can be muddy, slippery and wet. For directions, visit ODFW's Web site.

The Dalles, Mid-Columbia Region and Northern Wasco County

Elk Viewing

White River Wildlife Area is hosting migrating deer and elk. Visitors wishing to view wintering deer are best served in the Smock Prairie area, where deer will congregate in open meadows to feed. Elk are now present in large numbers at the feed sites at White River wildlife area, especially in the Friend area.

White River Wildlife Area is hosting migrating deer and elk. Visitors wishing to view wintering deer are best served in the Smock Prairie area, where deer will congregate in open meadows to feed, while those wishing to view elk are more likely to be successful in the Friend area.

Directions to the White River Wildlife Area.

Spring migrants

Warmer weather will start to bring spring migrants back from southern wintering areas. Many different passerine species will begin to move through the area in the coming month. Focus your attention to the oak woodlands, where spring conditions are first to appear, and where many species will stop during migration.

Look along the Columbia River for bald eagles. Large numbers of eagles congregate near the mouths of salmon-bearing rivers and streams as salmon carcasses wash up on the sandbars. The best areas within the district are the mouth of Mosier Creek and the Klickitat River on the Washington shore. Viewers also can find eagles near Riverfront Park in The Dalles, Wells Island near Hood River, and Government Cove near Cascade Locks.

SOUTHEAST ZONE

FISHING

Winter conditions exist in Lake and Klamath County. Access is difficult; paved roads will be frozen with snow drifts on north facing slopes, primitive roads will alternate between frozen to muddy depending on weather conditions. Desert Reservoirs, Creeks and the High Lakes are iced up.

ANA RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, hybrid bass

Ana Reservoir was stocked with 3000 legal size rainbow trout a month ago from Desert Springs Hatchery. Ana Reservoir will be open all year long for rainbow trout and hybrid bass angling. Fishing is good for rainbow trout. Hybrid bass are being captured using bait just off the bottom. Most anglers fish from shore on the east shoreline at night. Many hybrid bass captured are over 10 lbs. This is the best time of the year to catch trophy hybrid bass. The use of live fish for bait is prohibited.

ANA RIVER: rainbow trout

Ana River is open all year long; water temperatures tend to stay warmer due to spring input out of Ana Reservoir. This is a great place to fish during the winter. Angling for rainbow trout has been good. The river level is high. Rainbow trout can be very spooky so stealth is required. Bait angling is allowed and productive. Expect good hatches of blue winged olive mayflies during cloudy weather. Tui chub and pit roach are abundant in Ana River therefore LARGE lures/flies can catch the larger rainbow trout while not catching as many little fingerling rainbow trout.

BEULAH RESERVOIR: redband trout, whitefish, bull trout

The reservoir was 30 percent full and inflow was 36 cfs on March 2. The reservoir is totally covered with ice. Condition of the ice is unknown. Inflows are beginning to increase. Fishing is poor.

BLITZEN RIVER: trout

Catch and release angling through the end of May. Angling should be fair for redband trout. With recent warm weather and a substantial snowpack, anglers may have to deal with varying water conditions. Flow fluctuated between approximately 61 and 210 cfs from February 27 through March 2. Flow was 61 cfs March 2.

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

The reservoir is about 80% covered with ice. Ice is beginning to break up near the dam. The reservoir was 34 percent full on March 2. Angling is poor.

BURNS POND: trout, bass

No recent angling report. Watch for thin ice. Recent warm weather could cause ice conditions to change rapidly. Ice thickness can vary across any waterbody.

CHICKAHOMINY RESERVOIR: trout

No recent angling report. Reservoir was ice covered on February 28. Watch for thin ice. Recent warm weather could cause ice conditions to change rapidly.

CHEWAUCAN RIVER: redband trout

Angling is closed below Paisley. Angling is slow for redband trout above Paisley. Much of the river is frozen over, access to the headwaters is difficult due to ice and snow drifts.

DELINTMENT LAKE: trout

No recent angling report. Watch for thin ice. Recent warm weather could cause ice conditions to change rapidly. The lake is only accessible by snowmobile.

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

The lake does offer ice fishing for yellow perch, however ice thickness can vary and the ice appears to still be soft.

DUNCAN RESERVOIR: rainbow trout

Duncan Reservoir is covered by ice but warmer weather means the ice is becoming rotten. Though ice fishing has been happening, it is not recommended at Duncan Reservoir.

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

The north loop road is still closed for the winter. No recent angling report.

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

The reservoir is frozen. Anglers are ice fishing near the BLM boat ramp area.

JUNIPER LAKE: cutthroat trout

The lake almost went dry this year, so the trout population was lost.

UPPER KLAMATH AND AGENCY LAKE: redband trout and yellow perch

The lake is frozen. Angling for redband trout has been slow at the open water around the spring areas.

KLAMATH RIVER: rainbow-redband trout

Angling for wild redband trout is slow. Water temperature has cooled down to near freezing which will slow catch rates. The Klamath River below JC Boyle Dam to the JC Boyle Powerhouse is your best opportunity for catching redband trout. Most redband trout in this section range from 6-12". Water temperature in this section remains warmer due to the large spring input.

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

The road into Lake of the Woods off Hwy 140 is closed by snow and the lodge is also closed. Lake of the Woods is frozen. If you are willing to brave these conditions, fishing may be good for yellow perch.

LINK RIVER: redband trout

Angling is slow as water temperatures are 32 degrees. Access is available along the entire west side and boats can be launched at Veterans Park and motored upstream to the powerhouse. The Link River is open year long.

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

Flow is very low in this stretch of the river since there is little or no discharge from Warm Springs Reservoir. Discharge from Warm Springs Reservoir was 0 cfs on March 2. Angling is poor.

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

Flow is very low in this stretch of the river since there is little or no discharge from Warm Springs Reservoir or Beulah Reservoir. Discharge from Warm Springs Reservoir was approximately 0 cfs, and discharge from Beulah Reservoir was 0 cfs on March 2. Angling is poor.

MALHEUR RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout

Some melting has occurred. Ice is beginning to melt, ice condition is unknown at this time. The reservoir is producing nice catches of 10 to 14 inch rainbow trout.

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

No recent angling report. Road access is blocked by snow and will not open until spring. Remember to release bull trout.

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

No recent angling report. Road access is blocked by snow and will not open until spring. Remember to release bull trout.

MANN LAKE: trout

The lake had open water extending from the west shoreline to the center of the lake on February 18. No recent angling report available.

MOON RESERVOIR: bass, trout

No recent angling report. Watch for thin ice. Recent warm weather could cause ice conditions to change rapidly. The reservoir is low. The access road was closed January 28 to prevent road damage.

MURRAY RESERVOIR: trout

Ice fishing for rainbow trout has been good.

NORTH MALHEUR BLM STOCK PONDS: rainbow trout

Angling is expected to be poor. The reservoirs are covered with ice. Thickness will vary with elevation. Recent warm weather may result in difficult road conditions.

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

The reservoir was 31 percent full March 2. The reservoir near the dam is ice-free. Ice conditions at the upper end of the reservoir near Leslie Gulch probably are unknown at this time. The county ramp near the powerhouse and the ramp at the resort are still useable. Boaters should use caution when launching at the Gordan Gulch day-use area. It is reported to have nine feet of water on the end. All other ramps are out of the water. Angling is slow.

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

Flow below Owyhee Dam remains about 33 cfs. Brown Trout have quit spawning, but anglers still need to be careful around spawning areas to protect redds. The river has thawed. Angling for rainbow trout and brown trout is improving.

OWYHEE RIVER (Upper): smallmouth bass and channel catfish

Spring runoff has begun the Owyhee River. Discharge at the Rome gauge averaged approximately 898 cfs on March 2. Angling for smallmouth and channel catfish is poor.

PAIUTE RESERVOIR: rainbow trout and Lahontan cutthroat trout

The reservoir is frozen.

PHILLIPS RESERVOIR: trout, perch

Perch fishing has been good with size running 8n11.5 inches. Using jigs (with or without bait) is successful. Ice is over a foot thick. As the water level rises, ice will become thin around the edges. Use caution.

PILCHER RESERVOIR: trout

Water is low. No recent report.

POLE CREEK RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout

The water level at Pole Creek Reservoir is very near minimum. The ice conditions are unknown at this time. Anglers are catching a few large rainbow trout. The road conditions around the reservoir are soft. Trout angling is slow.

POWDER RIVER: trout, spring chinook

Fishing for rainbow trout is closed from HuntingtonnRichland road bridge to Hughes Lane bridge in Baker City. Above Hughes Lane to Phillips Reservoir is open to catch and release, and use of artificial flies and lures only.

SOUTH MALHEUR BLM STOCK PONDS: hatchery rainbow trout.

Angling is expected to be poor. The reservoirs are covered with ice. Thickness will vary with elevation. Recent warm weather may result in difficult road conditions.

THIEF VALLEY RESERVOIR: trout

Fishing is expected to be slow for a few months. Fingerlings were stocked in October. Water level is at 85 percent.

UNITY RESERVOIR: trout, bass, crappie

Ice fishing for rainbow trout has been good. The fish are running 12-14 inches. Ice gets thin around the edges as the reservoir rises. Use caution.

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

The reservoir was is 13 percent full and inflow at the Drewsey gauge averaged 192 cfs on March 2. Fishing is poor.

WOLF CREEK RESERVOIR: crappie, trout

Ice fishing has been good. Use jigs, shrimp, worms or salmon eggs. Ice gets thin around the edges as the reservoir rises. Use caution.

YELLOWJACKET LAKE: trout

No recent angling report. Watch for thin ice. Recent warm weather could cause ice conditions to change rapidly. The lake is accessible by snowmobile.

SOUTHEAST ZONE HUNTING

Open: Cougar, goose (open through March 10 in Klamath zone on private lands only)

Cougar - Cougar populations are healthy in the Southeast zone. In order to harvest a cougar, you need a valid tag and to be using a .22 caliber or larger center fire rifle.

Coyote - Any area with wintering deer will provide good opportunity for coyote calling. Hunters should be aware that cougars will respond to predator calls.

Waterfowl

The late white-fronted goose season for Klamath County opened February 23 and will continue through March 10. This is a private-lands-only hunt to help address agricultural damage. Hunters should contact private landowners to obtain access. Most fields remain snow-covered but fields with a south exposure or that were windswept are opening up. Geese are actively seeking out these few open areas. Some open water now exists along Klamath River and Lost River which is providing roosting areas. Hunters should concentrate near roosting areas for best opportunities.

KLAMATH WILDLIFE AREA

All hunting seasons are presently closed on the Klamath Wildlife Area. Snow is deep on the Miller Island Unit, and snow removal in parking lots and roads is attempted, however, use caution when utilizing parking lots and gravel roads. Overnight camping is not allowed on the Miller Island Unit.

Klamath Wildlife Area is updating its 10-year management plan (pdf). Users of the area are welcome to offer public comments. Comments can also be emailed to ODFW.Comments@state.or.us or mailed to ODFW Wildlife Division, 3406 Cherry Avenue NE, Salem, OR 97303.

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 game bird hunting seasons on the Wildlife Area are now closed.

Discharging of firearms is prohibited, except by permit.

Limited opportunities are available for furbearer or predatory mammal hunting.

Hunters interested in this opportunity need to contact the Wildlife Area and obtain a special hunting 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

NEW: A few spring migrants such as tundra swans, snow geese and sandhill cranes have arrived in the county, however numbers are still very low. Viewing for these species and other waterfowl should improve substantially in the next few weeks.

Bighorn sheep have been seen along the Catlow Valley Road south of Frenchglen. Best opportunities to observe bighorn are on the east side of the road from Roaring Springs Canyon on the north to Long Hollow Canyon on the south. The property adjacent to the road is private, so viewers must stay on the road or road right-of-way.

Viewing opportunities for mule deer and raptors are good in the Blitzen River Valley between Diamond Lane and Frenchglen. This area is accessible from Highway 205 and the Center Patrol Road on the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge.

Recent warming temperatures have made travel in Harney County difficult due to a combination of melting snow and mud. Vehicle access will primarily be limited to all-weather state and county roads until conditions improve.

Klamath Falls Area

Good viewing areas for bald eagles are in the vicinity of Township Road and Stateline Roads where they can be found scavenging on sick or dead waterfowl. Also look for rough-legged hawks in agricultural areas.

Great viewing opportunities exist at Veteran's Park in downtown Klamath Falls where the Link River enters Lake Ewauna, keeping some open pockets of water. Dozens of bald eagles can be observed using the perch tree overlooking Lake Ewauna. Also look for both common and barrow's goldeneye.

Lower Klamath National Wildlife Refuge

Thousands of tundra swans can be found foraging in flooded fields off Stateline Road on the Lower Klamath National Wildlife Refuge. They will stage here in the Klamath Basin prior to flying north to Arctic nesting areas. White-fronted geese are beginning to return to the area although numbers are well below average due to frozen conditions and snow accumulation. Over a hundred bald eagles can also be observed in the area. A marked 10-mile auto tour allows visitors year round access. The Refuge also has a number of photoblinds which are strategically situated for great early-morning photography. For a map of the area and to learn more, visit the Refuge's Web site.

Klamath Wildlife Area

Most waterfowl viewing has ended until the northern migration begins. Snow is deep on the Miller Island Unit, and while snow removal in parking lots and roads is attempted, use caution when using lots and gravel roads.

Good viewing of raptors is available including northern harrier, kestrel, red-tailed hawk, bald eagle and rough-legged hawk.

The Wildlife Area is located four miles south of Klamath Falls. For directions and more information, visit the ODFW Web site. Please contact Klamath Wildlife Area at (541) 883-5734 or email lanny.a.fujishin@state.or.us for additional information.

NOTE: Klamath Wildlife Area is updating its 10-year management plan (available here, pdf). Users of the area are welcome to offer public comments. Comments can also be emailed to ODFW.Comments@state.or.us or mailed to ODFW Wildlife Division, 3406 Cherry Avenue NE, Salem, OR 97303.

Lake County and Lakeview Area

NEW: Early spring migrants are just starting to show up in the major wetland areas of the county. Tundra swan, snow geese and northern pintail are abundant in the Warner Valley and Summer Lake. Goose Lake is still iced over with snow cover but as spring progresses and the ice melts early spring migrants will be common throughout the Goose Lake Valley.

Greater and Lesser sandhill cranes should be arriving within the week. A research project in the Central Valley of California color marked sandhill cranes which are expected to migrate through or nest in Oregon. Cranes are marked with colored leg bands. If you see a marked crane, please contact the ODFW Lakeview office (541) 947-2950. Please note which leg had colored bands and the color sequence from top to bottom.

As the snow melts native surface roads have become extremely muddy. Travel off paved or all weather gravel roads is not recommended.

Summer Lake Wildlife Area

This section was updated on February 25, 2008.

Vehicle access to the Wildlife Viewing Loop and major dikes is open. Temperatures moderated considerably over the past week, and a majority of the Area's wetlands are open and ice-free. Northward migrants continue to arrive, flocks of snow geese, white-fronted geese, tundra swans and ducks are increasing in number.

Waterfowl

Northward migrants such as American wigeon, northern pintail and canvasback have arrived and are increasing in number. Duck numbers doubled from the previous week with over 15,000 counted during last week's survey. There were 15 species of ducks counted, and last week saw the spring arrival of the cinnamon teal. Ducks remain widely scattered across the Area taking advantage of shallowly flooded conditions as snow and ice melts. They are in their bright and colorful nuptial plumage as they prepare for the breeding season. Many species are beginning to form pairs and some courtship activity has been evident.

Resident Canada goose flocks are dispersed widely across the Wildlife Area and adjacent private lands. Breeding pairs are actively searching for nesting territories and are very vocal in their defense of prime areas. They can be found scattered across wetlands and hayed meadows in the surrounding area.

Snow geese have returned and about 6,000 were counted last week. Viewers can expect these numbers to increase over the next several weeks. Look for snow geese in emergent wetlands where they feed on roots and tubers of Alkali and American three-square bulrush during the late afternoon and into the evening hours. Flocks can be difficult to find in the middle of the day as they typically roost at the head of Summer Lake which is distant from observations points.

Greater white-fronted geese have returned from the Sacramento Valley in good numbers. Over 500 were found during the weekly count. They will be found in the emergent wetlands feeding on the same plants snow geese use.

Wintering swans are now being joined by returning migrants from California. As they head north towards arctic breeding grounds many will stop and take advantage of the warm, moving water along Ana River and numerous diversions that do not freeze-over. Some migrant swans can be identified by their reddish-yellow stained plumage acquired from iron-oxides in sediments found in brackish wetlands conditions of California Delta wintering areas. Viewers can find swans scattered throughout the Wildlife Area feeding or roosting in the numerous wetland ponds and canals.

Trumpeter swans continue to be observed. Look for swans in large open water bodies where they can be observed feeding on the roots and tubers of submerged aquatic plants or on ice-covered pond margins where they roost.

Shorebirds, waders and other waterbirds

Killdeer arrived during the past week, and pairs can be found scattered across the Area. Greater sandhill cranes made their appearance last week. Established breeding pairs are the first to arrive and many will return to traditional nesting territories.

Raptors and Others

Resident and wintering raptors remain scattered throughout the Wildlife Area as well as on private lands along Highway 31. Meadows offer excellent foraging opportunities for many raptors. Migrant raptors are found in good numbers throughout the Summer Lake Basin and are very apparent along Highway 31. Northern harriers are especially numerous over marsh and hay meadows. Bald eagles are commonly seen along the Ana River near the River Ranch. Prairie falcons and golden eagles are sometimes seen during this time of the year. Once migrant arctic nesting geese begin to stage on Area wetlands, viewers can expect an increase in bald eagle numbers as they search for sick or weakened individuals as prey. Arctic nesting rough-legged hawks remain fairly common on in the area, although northward migration for this species will be occurring soon. Several dark morphs of this species have been observed over the last month. Great-horned owls are very vocal now and are commonly heard calling at night. The breeding season for this species is well underway. Eurasian collared doves remain at Headquarters Complex.

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. Red-winged blackbirds are increasing in number and can now be found throughout the Area's emergent marsh areas. During sunny periods of the day, they have been heard singing their well-known and common call.

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. Campgrounds are primitive but each has vault toilets, trash barrels and a few picnic tables.

The Wildlife Viewing Loop is open and will remain that way until early fall. Other major dikes (Bullgate, Gold and Windbreak) and the Work Road will be open for motor vehicle traffic until March 15, 2008. Caulkins Lane access road remains temporarily closed at this time due to snow drifts. As snow continues to melt and thawing occurs, viewers need to use caution since roads can 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.

Habitat

Wetland habitats are slowly thawing and large areas of shallowly flooded seasonal wetlands are becoming available. These wetlands are favored by a wide variety of migrants and are very rich in natural food sources. Seeds and submerged vegetation has been greatly reduced in refuge and sanctuary areas but new feeding locations are being exposed as ice melts. Waterfowl use has increased dramatically in areas that were formerly open to game bird hunting.

Meadows and hayfields are found on adjacent private lands and in selected locations on the Wildlife Area. These areas continue to provide excellent hunting sites for raptors. As temperatures continue to warm, small mammal activity will increase in these areas as will hunting activity by many species of raptors.

Upland habitat remains in good condition due to light snow cover or because of windblown clearing that allowing for good food availability to most wildlife. Lengthening days and warmer temperatures is resulting in the green-up and new growth of many species of forbs and grasses.

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

GRANDE RONDE, WALLOWA AND IMNAHA RIVERS: steelhead

Streamflows peaked at modest levels over the weekend and are gradually declining as of Monday. Angler success this past week was variable, with the best results occurring on the Wallowa River (6.7 hours/fish) and on the Imnaha River (10 hours/fish). Anglers checked on the Oregon portion of the Lower Grande Ronde River averaged 14.5 hours/fish an those interviewed in the Rondowa area averaged 35.4 hours/fish. Expect continued fair to good angling success as long as the river stays in shape. Further increases in flow could affect angler success.Check streamflow gauge data at: http://waterdata.usgs.gov/or/nwis/current/?type=flow

JOHN DAY RIVER: bass and steelhead

Streamflows are rising with the warmer weather and melting snow. Conditions for angling are marginal at best due to muddy water, but should improve if cooler weather returns. Prior to the higher water, anglers had been catching steelhead between Service Creek and Kimberly on the John Day River and in the North Fork John Day River below Monument. Remember to keep those clipped hatchery fish and release the unmarked ones.

Stream flow levels, Service Creek gauging station: http://waterdata.usgs.gov/or/nwis/uv?14046500.

The John Day River above Kimberly and all tributaries are closed to trout angling until May 24, 2008. The John Day River below Kimberly is open to angling for steelhead and bass all year.

MAGONE LAKE: trout

Ice has covered the lake but snow blocks the access road for any vehicles other than snowmobiles. Ice fishing success for brook and rainbow trout should be fair with rainbows and brook trout to 14 in.

MORGAN LAKE: Closed to fishing until spring.

ROWE CREEK RESERVOIR, CAVENDER POND AND ANSON WRIGHT POND: trout

All have thawed within the last week and fishing is slow for holdover trout. All will be stocked with legal-sized trout in mid-April.

TROUT FARM POND: trout

This small, spring-fed pond is open year-long and seldom freezes entirely. Access can be limited until snowplows clear the road and parking is limited. Angling success should remain fair for brook trout and planted rainbow all winter.

UMATILLA RIVER: steelhead

Fishing should be good for steelhead below Threemile Dam, and from river mile 44 to the lower reservation boundary. Steelhead returns to Threemile Dam have averaged 20 to 30 per day for February, total return to date is 1,300.

Due to fish passage concerns at the Feed Canal Diversion Dam (River Mile 28), all steelhead returning to Threemile Dam as of December 6 are being transported upstream to approximately River mile 44 for release back in to the Umatilla River. Modifications to alleviate the passage concerns at Feed Canal Dam are currently being evaluated. Fish releases directly above Three Mile Dam will resume when passage concerns are resolved.

WALLOWA LAKE

The lake remains ice covered, but ice conditions are unsuitable for safe angling.

WALLA WALLA RIVER: Steelhead

Steelhead angling is fair; steelhead are starting to show up in the Milton-Freewater area.

WILLOW CREEK RESERVOIR: Trout, crappie, bullhead catfish

Trout angling is fair.

NORTHEAST ZONE HUNTING

OPEN: Cougar

UNION COUNTY

Cougar populations are healthy to increasing in the area. Tracking cougars to kill-sites can be a productive way to harvest a wary cat. Calling cats with predator calls is a proven method of taking cougars.

Coyote hunting should remain productive into the spring. Using predator calls as a lure and moving call sights after twenty minutes is an effective method for harvesting coyotes. Be sure to ask permission before hunting on private land.

ELKHORN WILDLIFE AREA

The Elkhorn Wildlife Area closed to the public on Dec. 1, to minimize disruption to wintering deer and elk herds. It reopens in April.

LADD MARSH WILDLIFE AREA

Ladd Marsh is updating its 10-year management plan; see the draft PDF here. Comments about the plan can be emailed to ODFW.Comments@state.or.us or mailed to ODFW Wildlife Division, 3406 Cherry Ave NE, Salem, OR 97303.

Hunting seasons are now closed. With hunting over, dogs may no longer be on the wildlife area. But if you come to walk your dog on area roads, be aware that poison was found at Ladd Marsh the week of Jan. 12 and a dog that ingested the poison died. Keep a close eye on your dogs and report any suspicious activity to wildlife area staff.

GRANT COUNTY

Cougar populations are healthy and increasing in the area. They may respond to calls but will likely come in slower that coyotes.

Coyotes may be responding well to calls due to the colder weather. 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

Cougar populations are healthy. We have not had good tracking conditions for a while now. Concentrate looking for fresh cougar sign in areas that have deer and elk. Calling with distress type calls, fawn and calf are the most popular, but don't rule out smaller animal distress calls. Recorded cougar vocalizations can be more effective this time of year. Finding a fresh natural predator kill has the best chance for success. Using a raven call on the set up can be a successful way to drawn attention to it. Dawn and dusk are the best times for calling.

Coyotes are getting more challenging this time of year as it warms up and they have more food sources. The coyote population is very healthy. 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 affective this time of year. Also consider adding raven calls to your set up, it can increase interest in your calls.

Spring turkey opener is over a month away, but now is a great time to check gear, pattern the shotgun, and ensure the calls still sound right and to practice up before the season starts.

Just a reminder to furbearer trappers that your deadlines for bobcat and river otter to be ownership tagged are rapidly approaching. The deadlines are March 7th for bobcat and March 21st for river otter.

UMATILLA COUNTY

COUGAR: Cougar populations are high in the Walla Walla, Mt. Emily, and Ukiah Units in Umatilla County. Remnant snow in the high country will limit access to some degree. Hard snow pack conditions will also limit the ability to detect cougar tracks. Hunters will find best success in these conditions using calls and calling in multiple areas, waiting for in excess of an hour at each spot before moving ½ to ¾ of a mile and calling again at another location. Hunters are reminded to check in all cougars within 10 days of harvest

COYOTE: 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

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

COYOTE: Good numbers of coyotes can be found throughout Wallowa County. Calling 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. Deep and drifting snows have closed most forest roads to standard vehicle travel. Hunters may need to employ snow machines to reach areas off plowed roads.

TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS: Noregaard, Whiskey Creek, and Shamrock travel management areas in the Sled Springs unit are in effect.

BAKER COUNTY

COUGAR: Populations are high across the county. With the snow and cold weather cougars have moved down to the deer winter ranges. Calling tactics and tracking in the fresh snow are two good methods of harvesting an animal.

COYOTE: Coyote numbers are good throughout the district. Concentrate your calling efforts around wintering deer herds. As the mating season approaches animals are less likely to respond to distress calls, but patience and persistence will produce the best results.

ELKHORN WILDLIFE AREA

The Elkhorn Wildlife Area closed on Dec. 1, to minimize disruption to wintering deer and elk herds. It reopens in April.

NORTHEAST ZONE VIEWING

EVENT

Elk Viewing at Anthony Creek feed site, between Baker City and La Grande

Rocky Mountain elk are on winter feed sites. The best time for viewing is mid-morning or late in the afternoon along North Powder River Lane at the Anthony Creek feed site on ODFW's Elkhorn Wildlife Area, 8 miles west of North Powder. Bring binoculars and your camera. For directions, visit the ODFW Web site.

Baker County

Bald and golden eagles can be seen along open water areas of the Snake River and Brownlee Reservoir. For best viewing, drive the Snake River Road between Richland and Huntington.

Bighorn sheep can be viewed in the Burnt River Canyon west of Durkee or along the Snake River Road south of Richland. Mule deer are on winter ranges-for best viewing opportunities look at middle to lower elevation slopes with a southern exposure

Gilliam, Morrow and Wheeler Counties

Bald eagles can be seen along the John Day River from Dayville to Spray and along Willow Creek from Heppner to the Columbia River. Elk can still be seen along Highway 19 south of Spray, but not as easily this time of year. Dusk is still the best time to spot them moving down from the hills across the John Day. Mule deer are on their winter ranges. Most Bucks have lost their horns but some still have them. White-tailed deer can be seen along the fields from Heppner to Cutsforth Park along upper Willow Creek.

Rough-legged hawks are wintering in the area. Rough-legged hawks summer at the artic tree line and winter down here in Oregon's open country. The open grass lands in the lower foot hills of the Blues will give one the best chance of seeing a Rough-legged hawk. Drive any of the highways in the Heppner area and one is sure to see a few on the power poles.

Grant County

Mule deer have moved on to the winter ranges of Grant Count, providing an excellent opportunity for viewing. Look for deer along the Middle Fork of the John Day, Highway 26 between Dayville and Prairie City; and Phillip W. Schneider Wildlife Area along the South Fork of the John Day.

Bald eagles can be observed along the John Day River between Dayville and Prairie City.

They may be hard to see but from December until April there will be the opportunity to see big horn sheep. Aldrich Mountain on the South Fork of the John Day River is the best in Grant County for viewing.

Union County

NEW: Sandhill cranes and trumpeter swans have started arriving and can be viewed along Pierce Road and Foothill Road. Look for eagles and rough-legged hawks along Peach road. Watch for river otters, beaver, mergansers and wood ducks along the Grande Ronde River; driving west on Highway 244 from La Grande provides good access to river viewing. Deer and elk are on winter range and can be seen around the edges of the valley.

ODFW's Ladd Marsh Wildlife Area, La Grande

NEW: Warmer temperatures have opened up the water on Ladd Marsh Wildlife Area and early spring runoff is filling many of the wetlands creating excellent opportunities to see waterfowl. Tundra swans and greater white-fronted geese have begun passing through on their way north as have several species of duck. Please report and neck-banded swans observed to wildlife area staff, 541-963-4954.

Spring nesting: The area's Canada geese are pairing up and nesting should begin soon. Also, watch for "ears" showing from platform nests as great-horned owls are nesting.

A few sandhill cranes have begun passing through but large numbers should be arriving soon. Cranes can often be seen from the Foothill Road Viewpoint and from several locations on Peach Road. Killdeer have returned to the area and serve as a reminder to watch for less common migrants such as dunlin, black-bellied plover and both species of yellowlegs-greater and lesser.

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.

Note: With the end of hunting season, dogs are not currently permitted within the Wildlife Area. Nevertheless, dogs walked along the roads should be watched carefully. The weekend of Jan. 12 a Ladd Marsh hunter reported his dog was poisoned. Investigation by Ladd Marsh staff and law enforcement found poison-laced pet food along Foothill Road south of La Grande. Two other dogs were reportedly poisoned in this same area over the last eight months. Report suspicious pet or human food items found to Ladd Marsh staff immediately.

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

Umatilla County

NEW: As winter retreats and spring slowly advances, wildlife in Umatilla County will undergo changes as well. Waterfowl will be seen increasingly in pairs along the river systems and in the wetlands in northern Umatilla County. Flocks of ducks and geese will also be seen along the Columbia River and large reservoirs in the County as they feed up for the northern migration.

Deer and elk viewing: 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.

Right now, passerine (perching) birds will be dominated by wintering flocks of birds. 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 area wildlife areas to see shore and marsh birds in addition to perching birds and raptors.

Wintering rough-legged hawks and short-eared owls will be common sights in grassland areas. Wood ducks are pairing up at this time and can be seen traveling in flocks up and down the river systems with cottonwood trees along the banks.

ODFW's Willow Creek Wildlife Area, Pendleton

Visit the Willow Creek Wildlife Area to see waterfowl, raptors, game birds and passerines (perching birds). The habitat varies from open water to riparian woodlands. Bald eagles are an occasional visitor. The brush and thick vegetation areas in the uplands and fields are good spots for pheasant and California quail. Take exit 151 off I-84, go south and follow the signs.

Wallowa County

Bald Eagles

Bald eagles are common in the Wallowa Valley during winter months. Eagles can often be observed from highway 82 in the vicinity of the Wallowa River. The Wallowa River in the Minam canyon is another good place to observe eagles.

Rocky Mountain Elk

Elk can be observed on the Wenaha Wildlife Area. Eden Bench, southwest of Troy, is a good area to view elk early in the morning or late in the afternoon.

Bighorn sheep

Bighorn sheep can be observed along the breaks of the Grande Ronde River, when driving the river road from Troy up-stream to Wildcat Creek. Bighorns can be observed along the west side of the River. A few can also be observed from the river road downstream from Troy to the Washington State line. Winter months are the best time to see animals.

SNAKE RIVER ZONE

FISHING

BROWNLEE RESERVOIR:

Generally fishing has been slow as the water has been very low and muddy. The boat ramp at Hewitt Park is out of the water but some have been catching a few perch and catfish if willing to walk. The reservoir is 47 feet below normal. Call Idaho Power Company's recording at 1-800-422-3143 to get information on access at recreational sites or visit www.idahopower.com under the "Rivers and Recreation" heading. Reservoir level information:

http://www.nwd-wc.usace.army.mil/perl/dataquery.pl?k=brownlee

OXBOW RESERVOIR: trout

Bank fishing for trout has been good, especially below the outlet of Brownlee dam.

HELLS CANYON RESERVOIR: trout

Bank fishing for trout has been good. Approximately 1,000 surplus steelhead have been released into Hells Canyon Reservoir. These fish are considered trout over 20 inches and only one can be kept per day. No tag is needed if fishing in the reservoir.

SNAKE RIVER below HELLS CANYON RESERVOIR: steelhead, trout

No recent report. To get updated information on flow levels go to: http://www.idahopower.com/riversrec/waterlevels/streamflow/

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

The river is generally ice-free. Boaters should remain cautious. Flow was 7,104 cfs near Nyssa and approximately 12,873 cfs near Weiser on March 2. Angling for catfish and smallmouth bass is slow.

COLUMBIA ZONE

2008 Spring Chinook Forecast: Oregon and Washington departments of fish and wildlife released the 2008 spring chinook forecast Dec. 11 for the Columbia and Willamette Rivers during a meeting of the Northwest Sportfishing Industry Association. Based on projections by staff biologists and the Technical Advisory Committee the report offers recreational and commercial fisherman a first look at what to expect this spring.

It can be accessed on ODFW's Web site.

FISHING

SALMON, STEELHEAD, AND SHAD:

For the mainstem Columbia River salmon and steelhead fishery upstream of the Rocky Point/Tongue Point line to McNary Dam effective during February 15 through June 15, 2008 "It is unlawful when fishing from vessels which are less than 30 feet in length, substantiated by Coast Guard documentation or Marine Board registration, to totally remove from the water any salmon or steelhead required to be released".

COLUMBIA RIVER MAINSTEM, Buoy 10 Line upstream to I-5 Bridge: Effective 12:01 AM Monday February 25 this section of the Columbia River is closed to angling for salmon and steelhead. Beginning Monday March 24 through Friday April 4 the lower Columbia River between Buoy 10 and the Hayden Island powerlines (west towers) will be open to angling for salmon and steelhead with a daily bag limit of two adipose fin-clipped adult salmonids (chinook greater than 24" and steelhead greater than 20"), only one of which may be a chinook. Catch limits for jacks remain in effect as per permanent regulations. All non-adipose fin-clipped chinook salmon and non-adipose fin-clipped steelhead must be released immediately unharmed.

COLUMBIA RIVER MAINSTEM, I-5 Bridge to Bonneville Dam: This section of the Columbia River is currently open to the retention of adipose fin-clipped steelhead with a daily bag limit of two fish. The retention of spring chinook is prohibited. Effective March 16 through April 30 the lower Columbia River between Hayden Island powerlines (west towers) and Bonneville Dam will be open to angling for spring chinook and steelhead EXCEPT all angling for any species (including catch-and-release) is prohibited on Tuesdays during March 25 through April 29 (March 25, April 1, April 8, April 15, April 22, and April 29). The daily bag limit will be two adipose fin-clipped adult salmonids (chinook greater than 24" and steelhead greater than 20"), only one of which may be a chinook. Catch limits for jacks remain in effect as per permanent regulations. All non-adipose fin-clipped chinook salmon and non-adipose fin-clipped steelhead must be released immediately unharmed.

COLUMBIA RIVER MAINSTEM, Bonneville Dam to McNary Dam: This section of the Columbia River is currently open to the retention of adipose fin-clipped steelhead with a daily bag limit of two fish. The retention of spring chinook is prohibited. Effective March 16 through May 10, 2008 the retention of adipose fin-clipped spring chinook will be allowed from the Tower Island powerlines (located approximately 6 miles downstream of The Dalles Dam) upstream to McNary Dam plus the Oregon and Washington banks between Bonneville Dam and Tower Island. Boat angling between Bonneville Dam and Tower Island powerlines is prohibited. The daily bag limit includes two adipose fin-clipped adult salmon or steelhead (chinook greater than 24" and steelhead greater than 20"). Catch limits for jacks remain in effect as per permanent regulations. All non-adipose fin-clipped chinook salmon and non-adipose fin-clipped steelhead must be released immediately unharmed.

Gorge Bank:

No report.

Gorge Boats:

No report.

Troutdale Boats:

No report.

Portland to Longview Bank: CLOSED.

Portland to Longview Boats: CLOSED.

Estuary Bank: CLOSED.

Estuary Boats: CLOSED.

Bonneville Pool:

Weekly checking showed no catch reported for one bank rod.

The Dalles Pool:

No report.

John Day Pool:

Weekly checking showed two adipose fin-clipped steelhead kept, plus four unclipped steelhead released for 22 bank rods; and one unclipped steelhead released for one boat.

STURGEON:

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

The Compact adopted the following rules at the December 13 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:

* Allow the retention of white sturgeon seven days per week during Tuesday January 1, 2008 through Wednesday April 30, 2008 with a 42-inch minimum size and a 60-inch maximum size limit in effect.

* Allow the retention of white sturgeon seven days per week during Saturday May 10, 2008 through Tuesday June 24, 2008 (or until catch guideline is reached) with a 45-inch minimum size and a 60-inch maximum size limit in effect.

* Prohibit the retention of sturgeon seven days per week during Thursday May 1, 2008 through Friday May 9, 2008 and Wednesday June 25, 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):

The Compact adopted the following rules at the December 13 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 July 31, 2008 and October 1 through December 31, 2008.

* Prohibit the retention of sturgeon three days per week on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday during January 1-July 31, 2008 and October 1 through December 31, 2008 and seven days per week during August 1 through September 30, 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 January 1, 2008 this section of the Columbia River is open to the retention of sturgeon seven days per week until the catch guideline is reached with a daily bag limit of one fish between 42 and 60 inches in length and an annual limit of five fish. The annual catch guideline for the Bonneville pool is 700 fish.

THE DALLES DAM UPSTREAM TO JOHN DAY DAM:

Effective January 1, 2008 this section of the Columbia River is open to the retention of sturgeon seven days per week until the catch guideline is reached with a daily bag limit of one fish between 48 and 60 inches in length and an annual limit of five fish. The annual catch guideline for The Dalles pool is 100 fish.

JOHN DAY DAM UPSTREAM TO MCNARY DAM:

Effective January 1, 2008 this section of the Columbia River is open to the retention of sturgeon seven days per week until the catch guideline is reached with a daily bag limit of one fish between 48 and 60 inches in length and an annual limit of five fish. The annual catch guideline for the John Day pool is 165 fish.

Sturgeon catch rates on the lower Columbia River should improve as water temperatures gradually increase.

Gorge Bank:

Weekend checking showed no catch reported for seven bank rods.

Gorge Boats:

Weekend checking showed no catch reported for four boats (complete trips).

Troutdale Boats:

No report.

Portland to Longview Bank:

No report.

Portland to Longview Boats:

Weekend checking showed 23 sublegal sturgeon released for 50 boats (incomplete trips).

Estuary Boats:

No report.

Bonneville Pool:

Weekly checking showed one oversize and 19 sublegal sturgeon released for seven boats; and four legal white sturgeon kept and 46 sublegal sturgeon released 51 bank rods.

The Dalles Pool:

Weekly checking showed 11 sublegal sturgeon released for three boats; and 12 sublegal sturgeon released for 43 bank rods.

John Day Pool:

Weekly checking showed three legal white sturgeon kept and 28 sublegal sturgeon released for 20 boats; and one sublegal sturgeon released for 34 bank rods.

WALLEYE:

Bonneville Pool:

Weekly checking showed two walleye kept for five boats.

The Dalles Pool:

Weekly checking showed one walleye released for two bank rods; and nine walleye kept plus one walleye released for 13 boats.

John Day Pool:

Weekly checking showed no catch reported for three bank rods; and 17 walleye kept plus six walleye released for 45 boats.

Troutdale:

No report.

COLUMBIA RIVER ZONE VIEWING

The Columbia River Estuary is a terrific place to view shorebirds is just off parking lot D of Ft. Stevens State Park. From there, look northwards from the parking lot to see a couple of ponds and a lot of flat around it. It's protected from the ocean by the jetty to the west and the river is just over the small dune on the north side of the flats. Try a spotting scope or binoculars to get an even better view of the birds.

Watch for Bald Eagles

If you want to see eagles, this is the time to watch along the Columbia River. Large numbers of eagles congregate near the mouths of salmon-bearing rivers and streams as salmon carcasses wash up on the sandbars. The best areas within the district are the mouth of Mosier Creek and the Klickitat River on the Washington shore. Viewers also can find eagles near Riverfront Park in The Dalles, Wells Island near Hood River, and Government Cove near Cascade Locks. Several eagles are active in the lower Columbia River near Sauvie Island and Deer Island. Bald eagles are often found near water with large numbers of waterfowl or fish.

MARINE ZONE

FISHING

During periods when ocean conditions permit, anglers caught limits and near limits for lingcod and rockfish in the ocean. This time of year lingcod are guarding their nests in shallower water. Shore-based anglers continued to find some success fishing off jetties. Species illustrations and descriptions are in The Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations booklet (page 98) and The Red Rockfish Identification Guide. The minimum length for lingcod is 22 inches, for cabezon it is 16 inches and for greenling it is 10 inches. Fishing for cabezon from a boat reopened Jan. 1.

The marine daily bag limit for 2008 is six fish (including rockfish, greenling and other marine species) and two lingcod and 15 surfperch. Remember: yelloweye rockfish and canary rockfish may not be retained. Also, the Stonewall Bank Yelloweye Rockfish Conservation Area approximately 15 miles west of Newport is closed to the harvest of rockfish, lingcod and flatfish. Complete regulations, including waypoints for the Stonewall Bank YRCA, are in the 2008 Oregon Sport Ocean Regulations for Salmon, Halibut and other Marine Fish Species and online at http://www.dfw.state.or.us/resources/fishing/

The 2008 Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations are available from license vendors and ODFW offices and online at http://www.dfw.state.or.us/resources/fishing/

Seasons and restrictions for ocean salmon are set in April; catch limits and seasons for Pacific halibut are set in March. Seasons and regulations for all other marine fish are the same as in 2007.

Crabs

Sport crabbing is open in the ocean, bays and estuaries. Crabbing in coastal bays and estuaries remains poor. Ocean crabbing seems to be a little better, but no limits were reported. For more information on sport crabbing visit http://www.dfw.state.or.us/MRP/shellfish/.

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.

Clams

A series of minus tides next week will provide good opportunity for clam diggers. Beginning with a minus 0.3 tide at about 9 a.m. Monday, March 10, the low tide gets later by about 50 minutes each morning during the four-day series.

The recreational harvest of all shellfish, including all clams and mussels, is open coastwide but harvesters should check for current closures on the ODA shellfish safety page at http://www.oregon.gov/ODA/FSD/shellfish_status.shtml 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 at http://www.dfw.state.or.us/MRP/shellfish/. They contain everything you need to know for identifying and harvesting Oregon's clams.

MARINE ZONE VIEWING

EVENTS

Audubon Field Trip, Siletz Bay, Saturday, March 8, 8 a.m.

The Lincoln County Audubon Society will lead a field trip of Siletz Bay. Meet at 8 a.m. at SW 51st Street in the Taft neighborhood of Lincoln City. For more information please call Kathleen Nickerson at 921-4009.

Octopus Release, Hatfield Marine Science Center, March 11, 9 a.m.

Jimmie, the popular giant Pacific octopus at the Hatfield Marine Science Center, will be released on Tuesday, March 11. HMSC staff will transport the female octopus to the Yaquina Bay South Jetty at 9:30 a.m. to take advantage of the low tide. At 9 a.m., you may watch the aquarists at the center entice her into a transfer container, then follow them to the third finger of the jetty to say a final farewell.

Sea Turtle Saturday, Hatfield Marine Science Center, March 15, 11:30 a.m.

Join Hatfield Marine Science Center staff for an informative and fun day of family learning about sea turtles and their future. Activities include an account of the leatherback sea turtle at 11:30 a.m. immediately followed by a leatherback painting contest for young children. At 1:30 p.m., Dr. Selena Heppell, of OSU, will talk about sea turtles as icons of our oceans and give examples of successful conservation efforts that have prevented the extinction of many populations. For more information and full agenda.

MINUS TIDES MAKE FOR GOOD TIDEPOOLING

A series of four minus tides next week will provide opportunities for viewing life in tide pools and mud flats on the ocean beaches and in the bays and estuaries. Beginning with a minus 0.3 tide at about 9 a.m. Monday, March 10, the low tide gets later by about 50 minutes each morning during the four-day series.

Tide pooling is good at low tide. Look for anemones, hermit crabs, sea urchins, small fish, jelly fish, sea stars, barnacles and other animals of the intertidal region. High surf can make tide pooling on the ocean beaches uncomfortable and dangerous, so on wild ocean days try looking for wildlife in the mud flats of coastal bays and rivers.

For more information, visit ODFW's Web site.