Posted: Friday, October 24, 2008 12:00 am
Cascade elk hunting through Friday
The general Cascade elk season closes Oct. 24. Get off roads for the best hopes of finding a bull. See zone reports for information on how hunters did opening weekend; success was greater where conditions were stormy and wet weather is on the way this week. DEER season will reopen in the Cascades on Saturday, Oct. 25.
Mandatory hunter harvest reporting
Whether or not you filled your tag, don't forget to report the results of your hunt online or by calling 1-866-947-ODFW (6339). Reporting is now mandatory for every big game and fall turkey tag purchased except bighorn sheep and Rocky Mtn goat. Thank you for your cooperation.
Most rivers close to trout fishing Oct. 31; most lakes will remain open
Anglers are reminded that most rivers and streams will close to trout fishing on Oct. 31. However, there are several rivers that remain open for year round angling, see the Sport Fishing Regulations to see which rivers are open.
Most lakes and reservoirs are open for fishing year-round and fall can be a great time for lake fishing. Water temperatures have cooled, algae (if present) has died back and fall stocking with hatchery trout has resumed on several popular water bodies. Check the zone reports for stocking updates.
Your hunting and fishing dollars at work
ODFW employees come to aid of Sandy River salmon
With the removal of Marmot Dam on the Sandy River in 2007 fish biologists lost a ladder and associated fish trap used to collect salmon on their way up the river. Without the trap they faced a dilemma n how to collect enough brood stock to sustain future runs of hatchery born spring chinook. Read more.
WILLAMETTE ZONE
FISHING
Weekend fishing opportunities
* Sturgeon fishing has been improving on the Willamette River, with a few keepers being landed
* Coho runs have been strong over Willamette Falls
* Coho are entering the North Santiam in good numbers
EVENTS
Nov. 1 n Pacific Northwest Fly Tyers Rendezvous, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Mt. Hood Community College, Vista Dining Room, Gresham.
Nov. 1 n Willamette Riverkeepers Last 10 Miles paddle trip. Experienced canoeists and kayakers invited to paddle the last 10 miles of the Willamette to its confluence with the Columbia, 8a.m. n noon. Start at Portland Boathouse, 1515 SE Water Ave., and take out at Kelly Point Park. Shuttle provided. Call 503-223-6418 for more information.
Nov. 8 n Youth Waterfowl Hunt, Sauvie Island Wildlife Area, Call 503-621-3488 for more information.
Nov. 8 n The Wild & Scenic Environmental Film Festival, hosted by the Native Fish Society, Hollywood Theater, 4122 NE Sandy Blvd., Portland; Time n 7 p.m.; Admission - $10.
Nov 8-9 n Western Oregon youth deer hunting weekend for kids under 18 who have unfilled 2008 Western Oregon deer rifle tags.
Nov. 14 n The Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission will meet at ODFW headquarters in Salem.
Nov. 22 n Youth Waterfowl Hunt, Fern Ridge Wildlife Area, Call 541-935-2591 for more information.
STOCKING SCHEDULE
Walling Pond will be stocked with 400 legal-sized trout and 50 jumbo trout.
Walter Wirth Pond will be stocked with 1,300 legal-sized trout and 100 larger trout.
WARM WATER ANGLING:
A new gravel road was recently constructed at St Louis Ponds to allow liberation truck access to Pond 6. This road will also eventually be used as part of an overall concept to provide an ADA-accessible trail throughout the network of ponds.
Fishing pressure for warmwater species in the Willamette system remains light. Some anglers have been targeting walleye in the Multnomah Channel around Coon Island. Bass angling also remains fair. Most bass are being hooked in depths of 30-40 ft. A few walleye are still being caught.
The Portland metropolitan area, as well as the entire Willamette zone, offers many warm water fishing opportunities. A variety of species, including bass, bluegill, crappie, catfish, and perch are available to the summertime angler. Some of the waters to try include Dorman Pond, Hartman Pond, Salish Ponds, and Vernonia Pond. Please refer to the ODFW Web site for additional warm water angling locations.
ADAIR POND: Largemouth bass, bluegill, catfish
Adair Pond, located adjacent to the ODFW's South Willamette Watershed office remains open for warmwater fishing opportunities.
CLACKAMAS RIVER: coho
This late into the month of October the summer steelhead season is likely over for the year. On the other hand, it won't be many more weeks until winter steelhead angling begins in earnest.
Coho angling has been slow to fair with a few reports of fish caught, but there was very little effort on the river this past week. Coho jack counts continue to be good, which should be a positive for next year's run. The greatest opportunity for bank anglers will likely be down in the Gladstone area closer to the river mouth and the bowling alley. Boat anglers are seeing fish all the way up to McIver Park, but these fish have been holding for several days waiting for some decent rainfall.
Fishing for coho in the Clackamas can be frustrating at times with most dedicated anglers working diligently for their catch; using quality fresh eggs for bait can often prove to be the key. Anglers should expect this fishery to remain slow until the rains bring the flows up and fresh coho enter the system.
Anglers on the Clackamas are reminded that effective Sept. 17 the daily bag limit was increased to three adult coho.
The river level held steady over the past week with no significant rainfall affecting flows. Monday readings for the Clackamas showed flows at 1,040 cfs (11.04') with a water temperature near 52°.
Bank anglers can find access to the river in the Gladstone/Cross Park area, at Carver near the mouth of Clear Creek, along Clackamas River Rd, at Barton Park, at Bonnie Lure Park, at McIver Park near Dog Creek, and from the McIver Park boat ramp on up to River Mill Dam.
DETROIT, GREEN PETER AND FOSTER RESERVOIRS: rainbow trout, chinook salmon
Foster and Detroit Reservoirs were each stocked with 5,000 legal-sized trout last week. On Sept. 16, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers lowered the level of Foster Reservoir to perform maintenance on the dams spillway gates. The Sunnyside boat ramp is still be useable at this elevation.
EAGLE CREEK: coho
Effective Sept. 17, a temporary rule increased the daily bag limit for coho salmon on the Eagle Creek to three adipose fin-clipped coho. The rule will be in effect until the close of the coho fishery at the end of November.
Both the effort and the catch have slowed down on Eagle Creek over the past few days. The creek flow is at a low fall level again and will stay that way until some good, soaking rain moves into the area. Although a few fish have been caught recently, most are dark and have been holding in the deeper holes for several days now. Since very little rainfall is in the forecast for this week, expect angling conditions to remain marginal.
There have been a few hundred coho that made it into the hatchery this fall. At Eagle Creek National Fish Hatchery they have processed over 850 coho and are estimated to have about 200 fish in the adult holding pond. These numbers should jump considerably with increased creek flows. At last report the water temperature was hovering around 42°.
The most popular spots to try include the Bonnie Lure area, the water above and below the lower fish ladder, Eagle Fern Park, and up near the hatchery. Much of the creek meanders through private property so pay attention to your location and secure permission before fishing on private land.
FREEWAY LAKES (south of Albany): Largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill
Prospects should be good.
EE WILSON POND: closed
GOLD LAKE: brook trout, rainbow trout
The Gold Lake access road will be gated to vehicular traffic effective Monday, Oct. 20. The lake is open to fishing through the end of October. Anglers can access the lake by walking the approximately two mile access road off Highway 58, or alternatively may hike down off the Waldo Lake road. Fly angling only with barbless hooks. Catch and release for rainbow trout. There is no limit on size or number of brook trout taken.
JUNCTION CITY POND: rainbow trout
No report.
MCKENZIE RIVER: rainbow and cutthroat trout
Trout fishing for native rainbows and cutthroat is fair to good.
MOLALLA RIVER: steelhead
Some chinook might be found in the upper river, between Canby and Molalla.
NORTH AND SOUTH SANTIAM: steelhead
Coho are entering the North Santiam in good numbers, and some steelhead are still being caught. Steelhead recycling in the North Santiam at the Minto trap has been discontinued for the season. Prospects should still be good, however, in the Packsaddle and Minto areas. Summer steelhead recycling in the South Santiam from the Foster Dam trap has also been discontinued for the season. Anglers can receive recorded updates on Foster trap counts and recycling activities by calling 541-367-3437.
SANDY RIVER: coho, steelhead,
Fishing on the Sandy River near the mouth of Cedar Creek is still good and fair in other areas. Angling effort remains high with at least a couple hundred vehicles in and out daily at the Sandy Fish Hatchery. For the most part anglers are catching fish, but these coho have been in the system for quite awhile and quality may be a problem. Anglers are finding that they typically need to land several fish before one can be deemed worth keeping.
Most of the adult coho seem to be "locked" into holes on Cedar Creek until flows increase. Right now it appears that only the jacks are able to swim up into the hatchery. So far this fall about 1200 adult coho have moved into the hatchery along with 1800 jacks. Many of the adults swam in when water levels rose after a rainfall.
Parking problems continue to plague the Cedar Creek/Sandy Hatchery fishery and litter is an ongoing concern. These and other issues, including confrontations between anglers, have prompted additional monitoring by the Oregon State Police.
Anglers are having success floating eggs and corkies under bobbers. River conditions are ideal and it appears another strong run is returning to Sandy Hatchery this year. Flow in the main stem river is higher in the reach between the former Marmot Dam and the mouth of the Bull Run (where the mouth of Cedar Creek is located) due to removal of the dam and the end of water diversions out of the main stem and into the Bull Run.
Anglers on the Sandy are reminded that effective Sept. 17 the daily bag limit was increased to three adult coho.
Main stem Sandy River water levels are still low and the flow has remained constant during the past week. Boaters need to watch for submerged logs and rocks. The river color was looking very nice over the weekend. Monday's readings showed flows steady at 706 cfs (8.29') with the water temperature holding near 50°.
Anglers can access the river from many parks including Lewis and Clark, Dabney, Oxbow, and Dodge. Bank access is also available to the Cedar Creek area at the Sandy Hatchery. When fishing the Oxbow Park area, remember that there is no angling from a floating device upstream from a point that is 200 feet below the Oxbow Park boat ramp.
Collection/recycling receptacles for discarded or lost fishing gear can now be found along the Sandy River. Look for them near boat ramps at Lewis and Clark, Dabney, Oxbow, and Dodge parks. Any tangled fishing line or old gear can be collected and disposed of in these canisters as an effort to maintain a healthy, clean Sandy River. Littering has become a big problem on the Sandy below Cedar Creek. In other areas along the Sandy this has been cited as the rationale for restrictions on access. Please use nearby garbage cans for any other types of trash.
WALLING POND: rainbow trout
Will be stocked with 400 legal-sized and 50 larger trout.
WALTER WIRTH POND: rainbow trout
Will be stocked with 1,700 legal-sized and 150 larger trout.
WILLAMETTE RIVER: sturgeon, steelhead, warmwater species
SAFETY ADVISORY: Many of the boat ramps in the Willamette River system have been compromised by low water levels. Before launching a boat, check to make sure there is enough water to safely pull a loaded boat trailer up the ramp.
Fish passage at Willamette Falls is now fully restored with the completion of fish ladder maintenance. Through Oct. 16, over 6,000 coho (3,298 adults and 2,718 jacks) had passed over Willamette Falls. The large number of jacks bodes well for coho returns next fall.
Boat angling effort for salmon has been fairly light, but the few fishermen out have reported catching an occasional coho in the Willamette near the mouth of the Clackamas recently. This time of year most anglers have directed their effort towards white sturgeon, with a few warmwater anglers in the lower Willamette.
The Oct. 20 conditions showed Willamette flows up slightly at 12,900 cfs, a water temperature reading at 55°, and the water visibility down somewhat to 5.5 feet.
The sturgeon catch has been fair in most sections of the lower Willamette, with some improvement in overall action as the month of October has passed. Effort is increasing as well. From the lower Portland Harbor near St. Johns up through the Milwaukie/Oregon City area sublegal sturgeon are still dominating the catch. There have been a few reports of keepers as well. Bank fishing for sturgeon can be found at Meldrum Bar, at the wall in downtown Oregon City and at Kelly Point on the St. Johns peninsula. Sturgeon anglers have been using frozen smelt, shad, herring and anchovies as effective bait.
Sturgeon anglers must remember that retention of white sturgeon is allowed four days per week on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday through December 31, 2008. This regulation applies to the lower Willamette below Willamette Falls and includes Multnomah Channel. Also, sturgeon landed in the Willamette must be from 42 to 60 inches in length to be retained.
The Willamette provides an excellent warm water fishery in the summer and early fall months. You can expect to find an abundance of bass, crappie, and bluegill available. Target the rocky outcroppings, structures, or old pilings. Casting a variety of plugs or jigs near the shoreline can be successful. A simple bobber and night crawler might prove to be the right choice also. The local tackle shops can set you up with the right gear and direct you to the best spots. Lately, warm water anglers have reported catching primarily smallmouth bass at depths of 30 to 40 feet as well as a few walleye.
HIGH LAKES:
There are many mountain lakes available in the area for day use or overnight camping that require only a short hike in to them. The remoteness of the lake will usually dictate the degree of difficulty of the hike. Be prepared for cold nights as the fall season arrives. At least one early season snowfall has already taken place. The high lakes have been aerial stocked and provide an angling experience unlike the more crowded, close-in waters. Bank fishing or float-tubes are the way to fish on these small mountain lakes, with the greatest chances for success likely to be found by fishing in mornings and evenings. Please be aware of current campfire rules as you head into the mountain lakes. Of course always pack out what you pack in. Maps should be available at the local U.S. Forest Service office. Check the Willamette stocking schedules for a list of high lakes that are stocked by ODFW.
WILLAMETTE ZONE HUNTING
OPEN: Cascade elk (closes Oct. 24), Western Oregon buck deer (closes Nov. 7), black bear, cougar, fall turkey, waterfowl, pheasant, forest grouse, California and mountain quail, crow
Visit the Region's Fall Hunting Forecast
Remember to check with Ore. Dept. of Forestry, the Forest Service, BLM or other land managers about fire restrictions before going hunting; restrictions can change suddenly.
The Cascade general rifle ELK season closes on Friday, Oct. 24. On opening weekend results were fair. Wind and warm mid-day temperatures contributed to challenging conditions, pushing elk into the woods for cover. Those hunters who were willing to get out and into the brush reported the best results.
Cascade general season DEER will reopen again Saturday morning and continues through Nov. 7. Typically the second half of the season is good for hunters as leaves fall off the trees and shrubs, increasing visibility, and rain improve hunters' ability to walk around more quietly. Light drizzly days tend to be the most productive conditions for hunting black-tailed deer. Look for spots with some diversity to the habitat, cuts and burns that provide forage next to forested areas where the deer can find cover.
Western Oregon Rifle DEER season closes Nov. 7. Please remember that you must have permission to hunt on private lands. District staff has observed buck deer already into the rut and their activity and movement patterns are beginning to change. During the rut, bucks will spend more time moving around the woods in an attempt to locate does. Hunters looking to fill their buck tag should focus on finding concentrations of does which will draw bucks to them. Hunters should look to hunt areas with abundant forage in the early mornings and late evenings. During the middle of the day the deer are generally not as active. Look to hunt bedding areas in the timber and brush adjacent to the forage areas. On public lands these areas can be found around old cuts at higher elevations or recovering wildfire areas. On private lands look for areas that have had timber harvest within the last 3 to 10 years.
COUGAR hunting is tough during this time of the year and most cougar will be harvested by people out pursuing other big game species. Hunters report that cougar can be attracted into bow or rifle range by using elk or predator calls. Hunt with a partner if you use this technique and be prepared because cougar can respond quickly. Find your shooting lanes and set up accordingly before you start your first series of calls. Increased human activities and wet, stormy weather typically found during the fall hunting season will scatter the cougars prey species. Keep scouting where food sources are more abundant and palatable such as around lakes, ponds, streams and wetlands to locate fresh sign but don't hesitate to set up where the terrain and cover provides good visibility. Hunters headed for the northern end of the Willamette Valley to hunt cougar should concentrate their efforts in the Cascade Mountains. In the South Willamette Watershed cougars can be found throughout the area with the exception of the Willamette Valley Floor. Remember cougars must be checked in at an ODFW office within 10 days of harvest.
The general fall BLACK BEAR season is open and check-in of harvested black bears should be peaking as hunters spend more time in the field pursuing other big game species. As the fall weather begins to worsen and berry crops begin to disappear, bears will be more difficult to find. Hunters may still find bears using the few manzanita and elderberry patches that are left but bears will be looking for other food sources such as fruit trees at old homesteads and insects and grubs found under logs and rocks. Finding the available food sources will increase a hunter's opportunity for success. Hunters are now required to check-in the skulls of any bears harvested. Notify your local district ODFW office to set up an appointment to ensure that can complete the check-in within the required 10 day period. Make sure the skull of bear is thawed before you bring it in.
For hunters wanting to be more mobile and explore new areas away from berry patches, their best success would be using predator calls. Bears tend to respond best when hunters use a constant calling strategy. It can take a long time for a bear to respond to a predator call and hunters are advised to spend up to an hour at each calling location. Hunters are also advised to hunt with a partner when using predator calls. These are large animals that are expecting a meal when they arrive, so use caution.
GROUSE hunting has been slow as predicted in both the coast and Cascade Mountains. Despite the low chick survival this summer, hunters have reported seeing more blue grouse at higher elevations in the Cascades as they pursue big game. The birds are still widely scattered and are not showing any pattern to their distribution. Hunters will need to thoroughly cover large amounts of preferred habitat to find these scattered birds. A well trained dog will greatly improve your odds in locating and flushing birds. Hunters are reminded that ODFW biologists are trying to collect grouse and mountain quail wings and tails to help determine the health of these populations. Hunters wanting to participate in the effort should read the information available on page 40 in the 2008-09 Oregon Game Bird Regulations.
WATERFOWL hunters have been experiencing some hit and miss days during the early part of the season. Hunters are getting some shooting on locally produced ducks while they wait for northern birds to arrive later in the season. The weather plays a large role in hunter success at this time of the season. Warm and sunny weather can keep ducks out in the open water of lakes and rivers where they loaf during the day, away from hunters. Proper camouflage and blind set-up are critical for success this time of year and hunters are reminded to check their hunting equipment to ensure that everything is properly hidden from incoming ducks.
Goose numbers are increasing in the northern end of the Willamette Valley. Large flocks of Cackling Canada geese can now be seen mixed with other western Canada geese sub-species in agricultural fields. Hunters are reminded that there are special regulations that apply to goose hunting in northwest Oregon. Read the regulations on page 18-20 of the 2008-09 Game Bird Regulations before you hunt geese in this area. Remember to ask permission to hunt before entering private lands.
EE WILSON WILDLIFE AREA
Western Oregon fee PHEASANT hunting continues through Oct. 31. During the past week 816 hunters visited the Wildlife Area and harvested 229 pheasants, 2 quail and 2 snipe. To participate in these hunts, each hunter must have in possession a valid hunting license, upland game bird validation, HIP validation and a $11.50 fee pheasant tag. Hunters also will need to possess a wildlife area entry permit. The bag limit is two birds. Hunters are reminded to use non-toxic shot and carry an ink pen in the field so they can validate their tags as soon as they have their pheasant in hand. Hunting begins at normal shooting hours as described on Page 13 of the 2008-09 Game Bird Regulations and ends at 5 p.m.
For more information, call the Wildlife area at (541) 745-5334. EE Wilson Wildlife Area is located approximately 10 miles north of Corvallis on Hwy. 99W. The address is 29555 Camp Adair Road, Monmouth, OR 97361.
The wildlife area pond is now closed to fishing.
ODFW continues to take public comments on the draft management plan for EE Wilson. Email comments to ODFW.Comments@state.or.us
FERN RIDGE WILDLIFE AREA
Much of the wildlife area is currently open to hunting.
Fern Ridge WA waterfowl statistics
During duck season, the entire lake area and majority of the wildlife area remain open to hunting daily. Concurrent with duck season dates, there are seasonal access restrictions in effect for five units. The Fisher Butte and Royal Amazon units remain open 7-days/week with hunting ending at 1 p.m. each day. The East and West Coyote units shift into a reservation waterfowl hunt beginning Nov. 15. Application information for the reservation hunt can be found on pages 31 n 32 of the game bird regulation booklet. The eastern portion of the Kirk Park unit is open 3-days/week during duck season, with hunting allowed on a Sat/Sun/Wed and holiday schedule. A free daily self-service hunt permit is required for hunting in the East Coyote, West Coyote, Fisher Butte, and Royal Amazon units. Hunters are encouraged to carefully read posted regulation signs and the printed game bird hunting regulations. For questions or to obtain a map, contact the wildlife area at 541-935-2591.
SAUVIE ISLAND WILDLIFE AREA
Waterfowl season is in full swing on Sauvie Island. Five hunt days into the 2008-09 season 775 hunters have harvested a total of 1,255 birds, for a success rate of 1.6 birds per hunter. These results are comparable to last year when during the same period 827 hunters harvested 1,357 birds, which also equates to 1.6 birds per hunter. So far this year hunters are taking more widgeon, green wing teal and ring-necks and fewer mallard and shovelers.
For the daily harvest summary report visit our web site or call the Sauvie Island Wildlife Area recording, 503-621-3488 option 1 to hear the previous hunting day stats.
Hunters and visitors are reminded that a parking permit is required for the Sauvie Island Wildlife Area and can be purchased at ODFW Point of Sale vendors or at the Sauvie Island ODFW office, Monday through Friday during office hours.
For more information, call (503) 621-3488.
Directions to Sauvie Island Wildlife Area
WILLAMETTE ZONE VIEWING
Corvallis Area
EE Wilson Wildlife Area
Visit the Wildlife Area after 5 p.m. in October for the best wildlife viewing. Hunting in October ends at 5 p.m. so viewers have the area to themselves. Look and listen for songbirds and game birds-quail, doves and pheasants. There should be deer to see at dusk and last week viewers enjoyed watching a river otter.
Waterfowl and shorebirds are scare but as soon as the wet weather comes, their numbers will start to build.
From Albany, take Highway 20 toward Corvallis and after 5 miles turn right on Independence Highway. Go 3 miles and turn left on Camp Adair Road, then proceed 2 miles to the wildlife area. Find directions to EE Wilson Wildlife Area.
Fern Ridge Wildlife Area
Fern Ridge Wildlife Area is open daily for public use providing great wildlife viewing opportunities.
Observant visitors may catch a glimpse of black tailed deer and furbearers including beaver and otter, mink, red fox and coyotes. Some of the unusual and special bird species to be on the lookout for include white pelicans, black terns, band-tailed pigeons, yellow-headed blackbirds, osprey and bald eagles. This is a great time of year to look for waterfowl, shore birds, wading birds, songbirds, raptors, reptiles, and amphibians.
There is an elevated viewing platform in the Fisher Butte unit just south of Royal Avenue that is open year-round. A second viewing platform is located 1/4 mile north of the Fisher Butte unit parking lot on Hwy 126.
Visitors are cautioned that there have been recent vehicle break-ins at Fern Ridge and in local parks, so please secure your valuables before departing your vehicle. Parking areas are located along Highway 126, Nielson Road, Cantrell Road, Territorial Road, and Clear Lake Road. Contact the wildlife area headquarters, (541) 935-2591 if you have any questions.
Directions to Fern Ridge Wildlife Area.
Portland Area
Audubon Nature Sanctuary, Forest Park
Nestled against Forest Park, five minutes from downtown Portland, is Audubon's 150-acre, free-to-the-public Nature Sanctuary-a showcase for native flora and fauna. It has over four miles of forested hiking trails for you to enjoy year 'round. More information. Trails are open dawn to dusk every day. Get directions.
Sauvie Island
Sauvie Island Wildlife Area
The fall migration of waterfowl is in full swing. Duck numbers are increasing and swans and snow gees are beginning to arrive. Cacklers and white front geese started showing up a few weeks ago and there are plenty of raptors and songbirds to view.
The Sauvie Island Wildlife Area (Eastside Units, Westside Units and Oak Island) closed Sept. 30 and will remain closed through April 15, 2009 with the exception of the North Unit and the Columbia River beaches, which will remain open for the public.
The best viewing opportunities are at Coon Point, Eastside Viewing Platform and Rentenaar Road. All three require a Sauvie Island Parking Permit.
Sauvie Island Wildlife Area is located on Sauvie Island, only 10 miles north of Portland off Highway 30. A parking permit is required for the Sauvie Island Wildlife Area and can be purchased at ODFW License vendors or at the Sauvie Island ODFW office, Monday through Friday during office hours. For more information, call (503) 621-3488.
Directions to Sauvie Island Wildlife Area
NORTHWEST ZONE
FISHING
• The chinook salmon and/or hatchery-run coho salmon fisheries have been fair to good on several rivers including the Necanicum, Nehalem, Salmon, Trask and Wilson.
• Cutthroat trout fishing (both resident and sea-run) is good in many rivers throughout the zone.
NORTH COAST LAKES
Trout stocking is complete for this year. A few holdover fish should be available in most lakes.
MID COAST LAKES
Stocking rainbow trout for the mid coast lakes has ended for the season.
WARM WATER FISH ANGLING OPPORTUNITIES
The Mid Coast has numerous lakes or reservoirs which offer good angling for naturally produced warm water fish species, such as large mouth bass, yellow perch, bluegill, brown bullhead and crappie. Typically the best fishing is from late spring to mid fall while water temperatures are warm. Tactics such as casting or trolling lures, jigging baits near bottom or using the traditional bait and bobber technique are all productive from either a boat or from shore. Below is a list of lakes near local coastal cities that offer warm water angling opportunities.
Devils Lake (Lincoln City): Offers fair to good year-round trout fishing and also has slow to fair angling for largemouth bass, yellow perch and bluegill.
Big Creek Reservoirs 1 & 2 (Newport): Offers fair largemouth bass fishing, slow to fair angling for yellow perch and bluegill and good year-round angling for rainbow and cutthroat trout.
Olalla Reservoir (Toledo): Offers fair largemouth bass fishing, slow to fair angling for yellow perch, bluegill and brown bullhead and good year-round angling for rainbow and cutthroat trout.
Sutton and Mercer Lakes (northern Florence): Fair to good angling for largemouth bass and decent angling for bluegill, and potential for crappie and brown bullhead. Offers year-round rainbow and cutthroat trout fishing.
Woahink Lake (southern Florence): Can be good to very good for yellow perch and offers fair to good angling for largemouth bass and bluegill.
Siltcoos Lake (south of Florence): A large lake with numerous fingers, lots of shoreline structure and a couple large tributaries. Offers fair to good angling for largemouth bass, bluegill, yellow perch and brown bullhead. There is good year-round rainbow and cutthroat trout fishing and a good seasonal fishery for coho salmon.
Tahkenitch Lake (south of Florence): A large lake with numerous fingers, lots of shoreline structure and a couple large tributaries. Offers good to very good angling for largemouth bass and yellow perch, and fair to good angling for bluegill, crappie and brown bullhead. There is good year-round cutthroat trout fishing and a good seasonal fishery for coho salmon.
ALSEA RIVER: chinook salmon, cutthroat trout
Catch rates of fall chinook have been slow to fair. Fish are spread throughout tide water. Trolling down low and bobber and eggs up high tend to be the most effective. Anglers are reminded of the temporary rules for 2008 fall chinook angling, the combined bag limit for non-fin clipped adult chinook is one daily and five per season in the aggregate for all open ocean terminal areas and rivers.
Sea-run and resident cutthroat (blue backs) can be found in fair to good numbers in much of the river. Using light tackle with small spinners, spoons or flies is productive.
Current river levels
NECANICUM RIVER: cutthroat, chinook
Sea-run cutthroat angling (catch and release) should be fair to good. Use small lures or flies in the riffles or pools near some cover. Fall chinook angling is fair. Some fish have moved upstream, but many are dark. Fish lower in the system for fresher fish.
NEHALEM RIVER AND BAY: chinook, cutthroat, coho
Fall chinook and hatchery coho are being caught in the lower bay up through tidewater. Fishing has been sporadic. Quite a few hatchery coho have ascended the north fork, with many fish available in the open area below Hwy 53. Water levels have receded and are low and clear at this time. Most fish will be in deeper pools. Sea-run cutthroat fishing should be good in tidewater areas and upstream. Casting or trolling small lures or flies in tidewater areas is productive.
NESTUCCA RIVER AND THREE RIVERS: steelhead, cutthroat trout, chinook
Angling for summer steelhead has been fair. Best angling is likely to be in the upper river or in Three Rivers. Catch-and-release angling for cutthroat should be fair to good, with sea-run cutthroat available in much of the river system. Fall chinook angling in the bay has been improving, but overall is generally fair.
SALMON RIVER: chinook salmon, coho salmon, and cutthroat trout
The chinook salmon and hatchery-run coho salmon fisheries have been fair to good. The coho fishery should continue to produce fresh fish over the next few weeks. Sea-run and resident cutthroat trout can be found in tide water and the main stem river. Casting small spinners and spoons or drifting small flies can be productive.
SILETZ RIVER: chinook salmon, summer steelhead, cutthroat trout
Fall chinook salmon angling is slow. Anglers are reminded of the temporary rules for 2008 fall chinook angling, the combined bag limit for non-fin clipped adult chinook is one daily and five per season in the aggregate for all open ocean terminal areas and rivers.
Summer steelhead fishing is fair to good. Anglers should concentrate in the upper river above Moonshine Park. Hatchery fish have been recycled back downstream. These fish have a plastic tag near the dorsal fin. Please report tagged fish to the Newport Office (541-867-4741). Drifting jigs and flies or casting spinners and spoons can be very productive. Bait is also allowed; sand shrimp and cured eggs work well. Anglers are advised to leave wild steelhead in the water while releasing. Sea-run and resident cutthroat trout can be found in fair to good numbers. Casting or drifting small lures, flies or bait can be productive.
SIUSLAW RIVER: chinook salmon, cutthroat trout
The fall chinook salmon fishery is slow to fair through tide water. Trolling is effective down in lower tide water. Bobber and bait tactics typically work well in upper tide water. Anglers are reminded of the temporary rules for 2008 fall chinook angling, the combined bag limit for non-fin clipped adult chinook is one daily and five per season in the aggregate for all open ocean terminal areas and rivers.
Sea-run and resident cutthroat (blue backs) can be found in good numbers in tide water and much of the main stem river. Casting or drifting small lures and flies can be very good.
TILLAMOOK BAY: coho, chinook salmon
Hatchery coho and fall chinook are available throughout the bay, although many hatchery coho have moved upstream into the Trask River. Fishing for salmon has been fair, with some good bites reported. The ocean terminal area off the mouth of Tillamook Bay has been slow to fair for chinook.
TRASK RIVER: coho, steelhead, cutthroat trout
Summer steelhead angling is fair and improving after recent storms. Catch and release angling for cutthroat should be fair to good. A few hatchery coho have entered the lower river up to the hatchery, with more fish moving upstream with recent rains. Fall chinook angling is starting to pick up as fish move up out of tidewater. The first fall chinook showed up at the Trask hatchery last week, which is about two weeks earlier than last year.
Johnson Bridge is being replaced. Boaters should use extreme caution when approaching the bridge site. Passage at the work site will be provided. The road shoulder has been widened at the Cedar Creek boat launch, which will allow vehicles to pull off the road while launching. Anglers should use caution to avoid disturbing fresh fill in the area. Plans are in the works to construct a new boat slide at the site in the near future. Contact ODFW in Tillamook for details, 503-842-2741.
WILSON RIVER: steelhead, cutthroat trout, chinook
Angling for steelhead has been fair. Best fishing is likely to be higher in the system. Catch-and-release angling for cutthroat trout should be fair to good. Sea-run cutthroat are available from tidewater upstream. Fall chinook are now entering the river. Fishing should improve as more fish move up out of tidewater, but more rain is needed to bring fresh fish in. The Siskeyville boat slide construction is complete and the slide is open for use.
YAQUINA RIVER: chinook salmon, cutthroat trout
Fall chinook salmon fishing through tide water has been slow to fair with a few good bites reported. Anglers are reminded of the temporary rules for 2008 fall chinook angling, the combined bag limit for non-fin clipped adult chinook is one daily and five per season in the aggregate for all open ocean terminal areas and rivers.
Cutthroat trout fishing is fair to good throughout the basin and good numbers of sea-run cutthroat can be found in upper tidewater and the lower river areas. Trolling in tidewater has been productive, as well as, casting or drifting small lures and flies in the lower river.
Current river levels for major north coast streams
NORTH COAST HUNTING
OPEN: Waterfowl, rifle deer, forest grouse, California and mountain quail, bear, cougar
Visit the region's Fall Hunting Forecast.
Remember to check with Ore. Dept. of Forestry, the Forest Service, BLM or other land managers about fire or other restrictions before going hunting.
DEER on the north coast appear to have survived the tougher winter well so hunting should be about average. Deer numbers are generally modest, but with excellent buck escapement from last year's seasons. As October moves along, bucks should become more active in the rut, thus making them more vulnerable. Recent rains and cooler temperatures have lessened fire danger and opened more private timber lands. Know whose land you want to access and check their policies first. The toll-free recreational access hotline in Oregon is 1-888-741-5403.
WATERFOWL hunters should be finding good numbers of local birds and some early migrants blown in during the recent cold and stormy weather. Duck hunting on north coast bays typically slows once the local birds become more wary and then picks up again in mid-November with the onset of harsher weather. Tillamook, Nehalem and Netarts bays and the lower Columbia all offer plenty of public land hunting opportunities and good boat access. Hunters should study local tide tables and be well aware of strong out-going currents and incoming winter storms.
Hunting for FOREST GROUSE and QUAIL is likely to be below average this year due to cold, wet weather during much of the nesting season. Grouse numbers appear to be rather low, but mountain quail seemed to be about average. Look for mountain quail on brushy clear-cut areas, especially on south-facing slopes. Ruffed grouse are most commonly found on mid-slopes and along riparian areas, whereas blue grouse tend to occur higher up on ridge tops. It appears that bird numbers in the eastern part of the coast range are better than to the west.
Densities of COUGAR are relatively low on the north coast, and the animals are hard to find unless you specifically target them. One of the most effective ways to hunt them is by using a predator call. An aggressive calling strategy works best on these shy and reclusive cats. Remember cougars must be checked-in no more than 10 days after harvest at an ODFW office.
BLACK BEAR were very active on the north coast over the summer. While earlier berry crops like salmonberry and thimbleberry were sparse and late, the later ones such as salal, huckleberry, blackcap and Himalaya berry are plentiful. Travels in the higher elevations of the coast range have revealed bumper crops of wild huckleberries, blackcaps and other native berries. Hunting for bears in these areas, especially in clearcuts, should be productive. Like with cougar, an aggressive calling strategy works best if you are actively hunting bears. Reminder: starting this year, successful bear hunters must now check in their bear at an ODFW office no more than 10 days after harvesting one. See our website or call an ODFW office for details.
NORTHWEST ZONE VIEWING
With the departure of many of our summer resident birds for warmer climes, the viewer should be on the lookout for species that are only seen for a few weeks a year as they pass through our area from the north. This is especially true on higher elevation ridge-tops where groups of migrating songbirds can be seen.
Shorebirds, especially, that breed and summer in Alaska will stop along north coast beaches and estuaries only briefly in the fall. Many travel well into South America; reaching points in Argentina and Chile. Other migrants, including many waterfowl and raptors, will make the north coast their winter home.
Brown pelicans are still plentiful along the north coast of Oregon. A recent survey during low tide found hundreds of them roosting on Three Arch Rocks and other near-shore rocks in Tillamook County. At higher tides, they are often in estuaries feeding. The majority of them won't be around much longer as the fall weather gets wetter and colder.
Jewell Meadows Wildlife Area
Recent elk viewing has been limited to the last two hours of daylight in the evenings and the first hour or so in the mornings. As the days begin to get shorter and the weather begins to cool down, elk should be more visible during the daylight hours.
For information and directions, visit the ODFW Web site Visitors' Guide.
Astoria Area
The Twilight Eagle Sanctuary is located between Astoria and Svensen, just off of Hwy. 30 on Burnside Loop; look for the signs. This unique viewing stop affords an excellent panoramic view of Wolf Bay and a stretch of the lower Columbia River. The viewing platform is ADA accessible and has a number of interpretive panels that explain the ecology of the lower Columbia River as well as historical information about the Lewis and Clark expedition. A lot of migratory waterfowl have recently arrived in the area, and can be seen from the viewing stop. At lower tides, shorebirds can be seen searching the mudflats for food. Of course, bald eagles and other raptors can be seen at any time of year. It's a great place to bring a spotting scope and binoculars and stay a while.
SOUTHWEST ZONE
FISHING
Weekend fishing opportunities
* Fishing at Lemolo Lake has really picked up in the past two weeks.
* Reports of good crabbing for Dungeness off the Charleston Docks in Coos Bay.
* Trophy trout will be stock in Agate Reservoir, Applegate Reservoir, Fish Lake and Hyatt Lake the week of Oct. 14.
AGATE RESERVOIR: trout, largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie
A special fall fishing opportunity is available for anglers at Agate Lake. Over 150 trophy trout averaging 15 inches in length and over one pound were stocked last week. Try casting small lures and spinners. Garden hackle and power bait should work swell. Angling for bass, bluegill and crappie has been fair.
APPLEGATE RESERVOIR: trout, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass
Fall anglers can enjoy a late release of trophy trout at Applegate Reservoir. Over 900 trophy trout averaging 15 inches in length and over one pound each were stocked in late September. Anglers have reported catches of trophy trout trolling wedding rings and other lures in moderately deep water. Angling for smallmouth bass has been good. USFS personnel report that the ramp at French Gulch is the only one still open.
ARIZONA POND: trout
Located half-way between Gold Beach and Port Orford at the Oregon State Park's newly acquired property. Shore access is excellent. Anglers will want to fish with a bobber or some type of float to keep bait off the bottom and out of the weeds. The water levels in the pond have been lowered for weed control.
BABYFOOT LAKE: rainbow trout, bass
The lake is located in the Kalmiopsis Wilderness outside of Cave Junction. Anglers should contact the USFS in Cave Junction for maps and road conditions.
BEN IRVING RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, bass
Ben Irving Reservoir, west of Winston, has been stocked with about 4,000 trout to date.
CHETCO RIVER: chinook salmon
Anglers are reminded that the Chetco River is closed to chinook fishing until Nov. 1.
COOPER CREEK RESERVOIR: rainbow trout
Cooper Creek has been stocked with about 9,000 catchable trout to date. The reservoir also received some trophy sized trout in February and then again in early June. One lucky angler caught a nine-pound trout out of Cooper Creek that was probably left over from a year ago. Nearby Plat I reservoir has also been stocked with about 3,000 catchable trout.
COOS COUNTY LAKES: rainbow trout
Trophy trout were stocked in Empire Lakes, Saunders Lake, Powers Pond, and Bradley Lake in early October.
COOS RIVER BASIN: chinook salmon, Dungeness crab
Fishing effort for chinook salmon in Coos Bay has dropped off considerably. There are still a few fish being caught in the Coos River near Sause Brothers and in the South Fork Coos River at the mouth of Daniels Creek. Many of these chinook are getting close to spawning are dark in color. Chinook are still being caught from shore along the boardwalk in downtown Coos Bay. Throw spinners or bait under a bobber to catch chinook here. Remember emergency fall chinook salmon regulations began Aug. 1 and continue through Dec. 31, 2008. Check the ODFW website or contact the local ODFW office for these emergency regulations.
Crabbing in Coos Bay is still good. Many boats are coming back with limits or near limits of Dungeness crab. The best area is near the North Jetty inside the bay. Crabbing from the Charleston docks in Coos Bay has also produced legal Dungeness crabs. The best crabbing docks have been the B/C and D/E docks in Charleston. The best baits for crabbing are fish, chicken or turkey legs. The best time to crab is two hours before high tide through two hours after.
COQUILLE RIVER BASIN: chinook salmon, Dungeness crab
Chinook salmon are spread throughout the Coquille River basin. Bouncing eggs or trolling spinners or herring are the preferred ways to catch Chinook on the Coquille. Another area to fish for chinook is around the Bandon Marina and near the mouth of Ferry Creek. There should be chinook returning to these areas are from our acclimation site on lower Ferry Creek. Anglers should make sure to fish in areas that are safe and where they have permission to fish. A few Chinook have been caught from shore at the mouth of Sevenmile Creek. Best time to fish here is on an outgoing tide. Emergency fall chinook salmon regulations began Aug. 1 and continue through Dec. 31, 2008. Check the ODFW website or contact the local ODFW office for these emergency regulations.
Crabbing has been good in the Coquille Estuary around Bandon. Legal Dungeness crabs are being caught from boats and the docks in Bandon. The best baits for crabbing are fish, chicken or turkey legs. The best time to crab is two hours before high tide through two hours after.
DIAMOND LAKE: rainbow trout
Fishing has been excellent, and many anglers have commented "the past few weeks have been my best fishing ever in Oregon." Many people are catching trout in the 16 to 18 inch size range, with some lunkers in the 20-inch size range. The lake has turned over and mixed. All methods of fishing have brought in limits and large fish recently including bait, lures and flies. Some fish in the 10 n 12 inch size have also been caught recently. Many of these are "fingerlings" that were this past June. This shows that the lake has continued to be healthy and has enough food that the fish had great growth rates. The ODFW will be testing the final growth rate and condition of the fingerlings in late October. Diamond Lake will close to angling on Nov. 1.
Using live bait fish is illegal in Oregon's fresh waters. If anyone observes an angler using or possessing live bait fish, please record as much information as possible such as a description of the person, the boat number, description of the boat or vehicle license plate and contact Oregon State Police immediately at 541-440-3334.
ELK/SIXES RIVER: chinook salmon, cutthroat trout
Anglers can expect chinook and cutthroat to move into the estuaries all through October. Most anglers will be fly fishing or using bait such as eggs, sand shrimp or anchovies. Anglers should concentrate on the estuaries until river flows pick up and move Chinook upstream.
Anglers are reminded to check emergency regulations that are in effect for fall chinook. In particular, Sixes River is closed to fishing for Chinook upstream of Edson Creek mouth.
EMIGRANT RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, crappie
Little pressure has been reported at Emigrant. Some stocked rainbows are still available. Fishing has been good recently for largemouth bass. Anglers should fish structure, the dam face and dike structures in Emigrant and Hill Creek arms.
Anglers should be aware that recent testing by the Department of Human Services has found elevated levels of mercury in smallmouth bass at Emigrant, and a health advisory has been issued recommending limits on consumption of all fish from Emigrant except rainbow trout. Information on the Emigrant Reservoir advisory, along with general information on mercury and fish can be found on the DHS Web site.
EXPO POND: rainbow trout
Angling for bass and panfish has been good. Fishing bait, either from a bobber or on the bottom with weight, can be effective. The pond is located immediately adjacent to the access road at Gate 5 at the Jackson County fairgrounds.
FISH LAKE: rainbow trout
Anglers report good catches of legal and trophy sized rainbow trout. Over 900 trophy trout averaging 15 inches in length and over one pound each were stocked in late September at Fish Lake. Another 1,000 trophy sized trout were stocked last week. Both bank and boat anglers have done well with a variety of techniques. Power bait and worms are the most popular baits sold at the lodge. Fly anglers have also been able to catch trophy-sized fish. Brook trout are available in Fish Lake and fishing for them can be productive in September and October as they prepare to spawn and become more aggressive. The USFS reports that the boat ramp is still useable.
GALESVILLE RESERVIOR: rainbow trout, bass
Galesville Reservoir is open to angling year-round. Galesville has been stocked with about 8,000 catchable size trout to date and the 25,000 sub-legal size trout stocked last fall are now legal-sized. Some anglers report seeing external "worms" on a few of the trout or in their gills. These are copepods, a fish parasite, which occur naturally throughout the watershed. The copepods can be removed and the fish safely consumed. Galesville was stocked in June with about 55,000 adipose-clipped hatchery coho which are now legal size. In Galesville Reservoir, all landlocked salmon are considered trout. Thus, there is a 5 per day trout limit, with only one trout over 20 inches in length allowed for harvest. Trout fishing should pick up as water cools this fall. Anglers are reminded all bass between 12 and 15 inches must be released, and only one bass over 15 inches may be taken per day.
GARRISON LAKE: rainbow trout, bass
Anglers can expect good trout fishing through late fall. Bank access is limited to the State Park along the foredune or 12th street boat ramp. Anglers should keep an eye on the weather and target the lake when winds are light.
HERBERT'S POND: rainbow trout, warm water fish
Herbert's Pond is a small pond just east of Canyonville on Tiller Highway. The pond has a good warm water fishery for kids including bluegill, crappie, and bass. The pond was stocked with a couple hundred trout in early June to provide some additional fishing opportunity while the pond is still cool enough to keep the trout healthy. The pond has very good bank access.
HOWARD PRAIRIE RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass
The resort owner reports good catches of legal and trophy sized rainbow trout. Anglers are trolling 40-60 feet deep for the big ones. Some anglers are reporting good catches at shallower depths. Try trolling rooster tails and wedding ring/nightcrawler combinations, with a single split shot for weight. Anglers using Power Bait are still reporting good catches of nice sized trout in the Redrock area. Terry, the manager of the marina said that fishing has been picking up since both the weather and water have been cooling off. Catches range in size from 12-14 inches up to 16. Both bank and boat anglers are catching trout. Boat anglers are having success using Needlefish and Tazmanian Devils. Bank anglers have been doing well on worms and power bait. Anglers should note that the fishing season for 2008 at Howard Prairie ends on Oct. 31.
HYATT LAKE: rainbow trout, largemouth bass
The water is cooling off and anglers are picking up both legal sized and trophy trout fishing slow and deep. Trout anglers at Hyatt Lake have only two weeks left to take advantage of a late release of trophy trout. In late September Hyatt was stocked with 450 trophy trout averaging 17 inches and two pounds each. Last week, another 1,000 trophy fish averaging over one pound each were stocked. The fishing season closes for the winter on Oct. 31. The Orchard is still a good spot. Power bait and worms have been producing some 14 to 16-inch trout. Fishing for bass has slowed as the waters cool.
LAIRD LAKE: trout
Laird Lake is located approximately 25 miles up Elk River. Most anglers fish from the bank with fly rods or small spinning rods.
LAKE MARIE: rainbow trout
Lake Marie is at Umpqua Lighthouse State Park near Winchester. The lake has already been stocked with 4,000 trout.
LAKE SELMAC: trout, largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, and brown bullheads
Angling for trophy trout and largemouth bass has improved in the last week. A special fall fishing opportunity is available for anglers at Lake Selmac. Approximately 500 trophy trout averaging 15 inches in length and over one pound each were stocked last week. Fishing for largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, and brown bullheads has been good with nightcrawlers.
LEMOLO RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, brown trout
Fishing at Lemolo Lake has really picked up in the past two weeks. Lemolo Lake has been stocked with about 5,000 catchable trout plus some trophy-sized rainbow trout to date. Anglers have been successful at catching both rainbow and brown trout. The boat ramp at Poole Creek has been repaired to improve boat access.
LOON LAKE: rainbow trout
Fishing at Loon Lake has been very good lately for all panfish and largemouth bass. Loon Lake has been stocked with about 7,000 catchable trout plus some trophy trout to date. In addition, there were almost 6,000 sub-legal trout stocked last fall that are now 12 inches long and legal for harvest.
LOST CREEK RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass
Lost Creek Reservoir was stocked with 600 trophy trout in late September, and should provide good fishing throughout the winter. The fish averaged 17 inches and two pounds each. Pressure has been light, but anglers fishing Lost Creek are having success. Trolling seems most effective but bank anglers are also catching some fish. Bank anglers primarily fish either floating bait or worms. Trollers often fish wedding ring and night crawler combinations behind a weight, while fly anglers can have success both trolling and casting. Angling for smallmouth bass has been fair to good. The health warning related to an algae bloom in mid-September is still in effect. The waters in the reservoir are starting to clear upstream from Peyton Bridge, but the bloom still covers most of the reservoir. More information can be obtained on your computer at: http://www.oregonlive.com/news/index.ssf/2008/09/health_advisory_issued_for_los.html
MEDCO POND: rainbow trout, largemouth bass, panfish
Fishing for bass and panfish has been fair.
NEW RIVER/FLORAS CREEK: Chinook
Slow…. Expect chinook to move in toward the end of October or early November as flows increase.
Anglers are reminded to check emergency regulations that are in effect for fall Chinook. In particular, Floras Creek is closed to fishing for Chinook upstream of the county road bridge.
PACIFIC OCEAN AND BEACHES: bottomfish
Rockfish daily bag limit has returned to six fish and is open to the 40-fathom line. Sport anglers may still retain two lingcod but cabezon may no longer be retained by boat anglers.
REINHART PARK POND: trout, warmwater fish
Grants Pass anglers can enjoy a special fall fishing opportunity at Reinhart Park Pond this year. Approximately 100 trophy trout averaging 15 inches in length and over one pound each were stocked last week. Largemouth bass and bluegill are also available. Trout are hitting worms and floating baits. The bass and bluegill will take worms or a variety of lures.
ROGUE RIVER, LOWER: chinook, steelhead, coho, crab
The Rogue Bay and lower river are continuing to turn out a few coho and Chinook, although pressure is very light. Anchovies are still the number one bait in the bay for boat anglers. Bank anglers fishing downstream of the mouth of Indian Creek are still picking up a few chinook and coho on either flies or spinners.
Anglers fishing up river are side drifting salmon eggs, casting spinners or fly fishing.
Rogue River flows
ROGUE RIVER, MIDDLE: trout, steelhead
Bank anglers are using night crawlers and puffballs or roe for steelhead and fishing is slow. Try crawdad plugs, spinners and glowbugs. Fly anglers may have success fishing riffles in mornings and evenings. The flow at Grants Pass on Oct. 20 was 1,470 cubic feet per second.
From Aug. 1 through Dec. 31, between Elephant Rock and Hog Creek boat landing, no more than two adult non-adipose fin-clipped chinook may be kept per day as part of the daily limit. No more than 10 non-adipose finclipped chinook may be kept per year with five applying to the SW zone aggregate. Beginning Oct. 1 until Dec. 31, Hog Creek boat landing to Gold Ray Dam is closed to chinook fishing.
ROGUE RIVER, UPPER: trout, steelhead
The river is low, fishing is slow, and pressure has been light to moderate. Guide boats have been going out all week, and most trips have been averaging 1-3 fish per boat. Ugly bugs and nymphs are working best. As of Oct. 20, the flow out of William Jess Dam (Lost Creek) was 1,058 cfs and the outflow temperature was 44 degrees. As of Oct. 10, 3,523 summer steelhead have been counted at Gold Ray Dam. Angling for chinook is now closed above Gold Ray. From Sept. 1 to Oct. 31, angling between Gold Ray Dam and Cole Rivers Hatchery is restricted to artificial flies only. Consult the regulations for more information. Trout fishing has been good and can be a great activity between morning and evening steelhead sessions.
ROGUE RIVER (SECTION 5): rainbow trout
Section 5 of the Rogue River (upstream of Lost Creek Reservoir): Stocked rainbows are still available. This section of the Rogue River will close to angling on Oct. 31.
SODA SPRINGS RESERVOIR: brown and rainbow trout
Soda Springs Reservoir and the tributaries upstream are open for trout angling. Highway 138 is now open after the forest fire closure.
SMITH RIVER: striped bass, trout, fall chinook, steelhead
Anglers have been catching chinook hit or miss in the lower river. Open for adipose fin-clipped steelhead from mouth to Spencer Creek and North Fork from mouth upstream to Johnson Creek. Fall chinook season is open from mouth to Spencer Creek, but North Fork Smith is closed Aug 1-Dec 31 for fall chinook fishing as an emergency closure for 2008 (check for special regulations). Trout season closed Sept. 15. Striped bass season is open year-round, 2 fish per 24 hours, 30-inch minimum size. The North Fork is open from mouth to Johnson Creek for stripers.
SOUTH COAST STREAMS: trout
Trout season in the Umpqua tributaries, Smith River, South Umpqua, North Umpqua tributaries below Soda Springs Reservoir and Cow Creek basins closed Sept. 15. The mainstem Umpqua and mainstem North Umpqua to Soda Springs Dam are open year-round for catch and release trout. North Umpqua mainstem and tributarties above Soda Springs Reservoir remain open for trout angling until Oct. 31.
SOUTHARD LAKE: trout
Southard is a small lake accessible by trail. Anglers not familiar with the area should contact the USFS office in Gold Beach for maps and road conditions.
TENMILE BASIN: largemouth bass, yellow perch
Yellow perch are biting in Tenmile Lakes. Most of the perch are small but there are a few fish over 8 inches. Concentrate fishing efforts in deeper water near weedlines or other submerged structure. The fishing dock at the county boat ramp is a great place to fish for yellow perch. Use a piece of worm on a small hook or small jig with light tackle to catch yellow perch. Your bait needs to be on or near the bottom.
Largemouth bass fishing has been good. With the shorter days and colder nights water temperatures are holding at 60 degrees but will be getting cooler as we get closer to winter. Use jigs, crankbaits, or plastic lures and concentrate your fishing efforts near structure. If you are not getting any bites try slowing down your presentation.
TOKETEE LAKE: brown trout
Fishing is open in Toketee year-round, and the best fishing occurs early in the morning. The lake has both good bank and boat access throughout.
UMPQUA ESTUARY: sturgeon, bass, chinook, coho
Both sturgeon and striped bass fishing have been slow in the lower Umpqua. Good numbers of chinook and coho have been caught off Osprey Point and Half Moon Bay as well as near Gardiner by bank anglers. Boat angling has been good between Gardiner and Dean Creek.
UMPQUA HIGH LAKES AND FOREBAYS: trout
Diamond Lake and Lemolo are open for fishing until Nov. 1. Clearwater Forebay #2 was stocked a few weeks ago with 400 trophy trout. Hemlock Lake was also stocked for Labor Day weekend with 1,400 trophy trout. Other high lakes such as Maidu, Bull Pup, Connie, Skookum, Calamut, Fuller, Wolf, Cliff, Buckeye, Linda, and Big Twin Lakes are now accessible for brook trout fishing and have been stocked this year. Highway 138 is re-opened as of Sept. 21.
UMPQUA RIVER MAINSTEM: steelhead, spring Chinook, smallmouth bass
Chinook fishing is fair but chinook caught are tending to be large. Several 40 n 50 pound chinook have been reported in recent weeks. A rain should get the fish moving. Smallmouth bass fishing is slow, as water temperatures lower. Remember the main stem Umpqua is closed to wild steelhead harvest, but remains open year-round for adipose fin-clipped steelhead. Good numbers of coho are being caught thru out the main. Open for adipose fin-clipped Coho Aug.1-Dec.31. Starting Aug.1, check special regulations for fall chinook.
UMPQUA RIVER, NORTH: steelhead
The final count for spring chinook was 7,677 fish. As of Sept.30, 124 coho and 5,826 summer steelhead have passed Winchester Dam. Remember that only adipose fin-clipped steelhead can be harvested on the North Umpqua. The North is open to catch and release trout fishing from the mouth upstream to Soda Springs Dam. Season opened for adipose fin-clipped coho on Aug. 1. There will be few fin-clipped coho returning to the North Umpqua this year since the hatchery program was discontinued in 2005. There will still be fin-clipped coho in the mainstem Umpqua. The North closed to chinook fishing on July 31 and will not re-open until Jan. 1.
UMPQUA RIVER, SOUTH: smallmouth bass
The South Umpqua is now closed to all angling and will remain closed until winter steelhead season opens Dec. 1.
WILLOW LAKE: trout
Willow Lake was stocked with 250 trophy trout in late September. Anglers should try using floating bait or worms. Casting and retrieving, or trolling lures or flies can also be effective. Angling for largemouth bass, crappie, and other warmwater fish should drop off as the water cools.
WINCHESTER BAY: sturgeon, coho, chinook
Fishing remains slow for sturgeon. Angling for both coho and chinook in the bay opened on Aug. 1. Only fin-clipped coho can be harvested and only one, non-fin-clipped chinook per day, five per year can be harvested. See special regulations for more details. Crabbing has been good.
RECREATIONAL SHELLFISH IS OPEN
The entire Oregon coast is open for recreational shellfishing. ALWAYS CHECK FOR HEALTH ADVISORIES by calling the Oregon Department of Agriculture's Shellfish line at 1-800-448-2474 for updates.
Razor clams and current status of particular areas
Crabbing has been a little slow but picked up recently. Crabbers are encouraged to return soft crabs with little meat back to the water. Crabbing from public docks or boat if available is a great opportunity for families to catch a delicious dinner. Kids often enjoy sorting out the smaller crab that can be abundant. Public crabbing docks can be found in Winchester Bay, Bandon, Charleston, and Empire.
Clamming effort in Coos Bay has slowed down but there are still lots a clams available. A couple of areas to try are Pigeon Point off the Cape Arago Highway and the Charleston Flat south of the Charleston Bridge.
* ALWAYS CHECK FOR HEALTH ADVISORIES by calling the Oregon Department of Agriculture's Shellfish line at 1-800-448-2474 for updates.
* Razor clams and current status of particular areas
* Bay clams
SOUTHWEST ZONE HUNTING
OPEN: Cascade elk (closes Oct. 24), fall turkey, waterfowl, Western Oregon deer (reopens Oct. 25 in some areas), forest grouse, California and mountain quail, bear, cougar, crow
RATTLE FIRE CLOSURES: Please check the Umpqua National Forest's web site at www.fs.fed.us/r6/umpqua or call 541-672-6601 for latest closure information. The Boulder Creek Wilderness Area and roads leading into it are still closed
Visit the SW Region Fall Hunting Forecast
Remember to check with Ore. Dept. of Forestry, the Forest Service, BLM or other land managers about fire restrictions before going hunting; restrictions can change suddenly.
DOUGLAS COUNTY
OPENING WEEKEND: Hunting pressure was lower than past years, perhaps due to road closures caused by the Rattle Fire in the Umpqua NF and hunters choosing to go elsewhere. Weather was dry, elk scattered and hunting success was lower. ODFW checked 480 hunters who took 11 elk. Wet weather this week should improve hunting conditions.
Cascade ELK rifle season continues through Oct. 24. Elk populations are similar to last year so this hunting year will be average. Hunters should find elk widely scattered, and good numbers can be found in dense conifer stands. Elk numbers are good in both the Dixon and S. Indigo units.
General Cascade deer rifle season in Indigo, Dixon and Evans Creek units re-opens Oct. 25 in the Cascade units. Wet weather will help hunters locate bucks for the last couple weeks of the season. Also, harvest success should continue to improve as the season progresses with buck starting to come into rut. Most all controlled doe seasons are open from Oct. 25n Nov. 7 in Douglas County.
General BEAR season is now open. Hunters can expect an average year. Hunters should concentrate their efforts in the berry patches in early morning and late afternoon. Bear numbers are good with the highest numbers in the coast range. Successful bear hunters are reminded there is a mandatory check-in for all harvested bear within 10 days of harvest (see regulations for details).
COUGAR season is open. Hunters can expect an average year. Cougars are abundant and wildly distributed. Hunting success is best around high deer populations areas using a predator call.
WESTERN GRAY SQUIRREL season is currently open. Hunters can expect an average year. Squirrels are widely distributed throughout the county with good numbers in areas of oaks and conifers. Many areas of high squirrel populations are on private lands so hunters are reminded to ask for permission on these lands before hunting.
UPLAND GAMEBIRDS:
The FALL TURKEY season runs through Dec. 31. Hunters can expect an above average year. The 2008 summer chick counts showed about average production this year. Most turkeys are on or adjacent to low-mid elevation private lands associated with oak savannah habitat.
GROUSE and QUAIL seasons are currently open. Hunters can expect a good hunt year.
Hunting availability and success for FOREST GROUSE should be also be good. Blue grouse success is best in mid to high elevations of the Cascades in partly open conifer stands. Ruffed grouse can be found near creeks mostly at mid elevations of both the Cascades and Coast Range. Hunters that kill grouse are asked to drop off in a paper bag the frozen wing and tail of each grouse at the local ODFW office. Please use 1 bird per bag with each frozen bag of grouse parts including the species, sex, age, unit and general area of harvest for proper analysis.
Nesting season was below average for California QUAIL and average for Mountain quail so hunting opportunity should be good. Success is best in the lower elevation agricultural lands for California quail and mid-elevations of the Cascades and Coast Range near brushy clear cuts on secondary forest roads for Mountain quail. Hunters are also asked if they kill a mountain quail to drop off in a paper bag the frozen wing and tail of each mountain quail at the local ODFW office. Please use 1 bird per bag with each frozen bag of quail parts including the species, sex, age, unit and general area of harvest for proper analysis.
MIGRATORY GAMEBIRDS:
CROW season is now open. Hunters can expect an average year. Crow are abundant and widely distributed on the Umpqua Valley floor. Hunting crow is a challenge with most being on or adjacent to private lands.
WATERFOWL:
DUCK and GOOSE hunters can expect an average to above-average year. The season is currently open for ducks, geese, snipe and coot. Local duck production is historically good but small so a fair number of local ducks are available now with improved opportunity as the fall migrating ducks arrive later in the season. Hunting for resident geese in Douglas County should be very good because of an excellent production again this year. Nearly all waterfowl hunting in the Umpqua Valley is on private property and hunters should obtain landowner permission before hunting.
COOS COUNTY
DEER activity will increase as cold fronts move into the county. Most deer will be found in or near brushy forest openings like young clear-cuts. Hunters interested in hunting private forest lands should contact the owners of those lands to see if they are open to public access and what type of access in allowed. Recently, some of the local private forest land owners have changed their policy regarding motor vehicle access.
WATERFOWL seasons opened Oct. 11. Duck numbers in coastal bays are clearly beginning to increase. Most of these birds will be found in feeding on mud flats and flooded grass around the bays. Most of the ducks in the bays now are American widgeon, green-wing teal gadwalls and mallards. As the season progresses and inland valleys flood, the birds will begin to disperse there. This is a good time to hunt the bays.
BEAR season is open. As the fall progresses black bears become more and more desperate for food as they try to pack on fat to sustain them through the winter months. Often as fall weather begins to hit, bears will become very active as they search for dwindling food resources. Black berries are no longer available. Huckleberries are presently what bears are feeding on the most. Along with huckleberries some will also turn to eating mushrooms and tearing up logs looking for insects. Hunters should turn their attention to large huckleberry patches. Predator calling may also be a good tactic for finding bears now that they are dispersing. Don't forget check-in is now mandatory for successful bear hunters.
COUGAR season is open. Cougars are abundant throughout with indicators pointing to stable or increasing numbers. Hunting cougar is a challenge because these animals are very secretive, but harvest success is greatest adjacent to private land with high deer populations using a predator call. Remember check-in is mandatory for successful hunters.
MTN QUAIL and CALIF QUAIL populations fared better than grouse this year due to the fact that their clutches hatch later in the spring, missing the winter-like weather. These birds will be found in brushy clear cuts and near agricultural areas.
FOREST GROUSE seasons are open and many forest grouse are harvested by deer hunters while they hunt deer. Grouse will be most abundant along closed forest roads where grass and brush is beginning to encroach on the road. Otherwise riparian areas are good places to hunt these birds. ODFW encourages grouse hunters to save one wing and the tail of grouse harvested. By turning these parts in to ODFW we can analyze them to gain important information on the health of these populations. Paper bags with instructions on what parts to save are available from ODFW or from wing-deposit boxes at Dean Creek Elk Viewing Area or the Charleston ODFW office.
JACKSON, JOSEPHINE, CURRY COUNTIES
DEER rifle season will resume Oct 25 in the Rogue, Dixon, and Evans creek units. Many of the deer have migrated to lower elevations although several reports of deer are still seen in high elevations. Deer hunters can continue to hunt the Applegate unit and other coastal units.
ELK rifle season is open through Oct. 24. Hunters throughout opening weekend had an average harvest success. Rains for the opener created a quieter forest and a chance for hunters to determine fresh tracks. Hunters who spent the time in the woods walking around found fresh sign saw occasional glimpses of elk. Most hunters were in Cooperative Travel Management Areas, with very little reports of violation to the road closures.
WATERFOWL season is open. Duck and goose hunting this year will be average. Fall flights numbers are slightly lower than last year. Weather will continue to be a factor in how many birds arrive in our area. Stormy weather will bring migratory birds into the Denman Wildlife Area. Many ponds exist in the Rogue valley although most are on private lands; hunters need to ask for permission.
SNIPE is another challenging bird to hunt as they are small, fast and erratic low-flying birds that can be hard to identify. Be sure to know how to differentiate it from killdeer and other shorebirds before you hunt. Snipe may be spooked in areas where there are high numbers of hunters but other times a person can walk up on them. Snipe almost always emit a call when they take off in flight. The best time to hunt snipe will be late fall and winter months. Denman Wildlife Area has decent numbers of snipe.
UPLAND GAME BIRDS season is open. Deer hunters reported observing forest grouse and quail in many areas. Overall numbers appear to be lower than average with a few exceptions where pockets of birds have had good reproduction. Forest grouse can be found in timbered creek draws and mountain quail will be found in brushy clear cuts near water. A good bird dog will aid greatly in bird retrieval.
DENMAN WILDLIFE AREA
Regular Statewide pheasant season is open. Rogue Valley has low numbers of pheasants; the pheasant that do exist are found on private lands so you will need permission to hunt.
Once the fee pheasant hunting ends, fields on Denman will be flooded and WATERFOWL hunting should pick up. Opening waterfowl weekend harvest was light as fields are not yet flooded.
BEAR season is open. Hunters are continuing to have good success for this bear season. Bears are still being observed by deer hunters so be sure and have your bear tag with you. Bears have been found in early morning and late evening clear cuts and berry patches. Hunters need to remember that in order to be hunting bear during the Cascade bull elk firearm season they need to have a valid unused elk tag while in that area. In other words as soon as the elk tag is filled hunters are no longer allowed to hunt bears until elk season is over. Successful hunters, don't forget-you must bring bear skulls in thawed and with mouth propped open so biologists can collect and measure needed teeth and are able to tag skulls. Remember check-in is now mandatory. More information
General COUGAR season is open. Cougar populations continue to be plentiful. Predator calling has become one of the best methods for hunters. Locate major ridge lines and rocky out-cropping as areas of travel within cougar home range. Hunters cannot hunt cougars during the Cascade bull elk firearm season unless they have a valid unused elk tag while in that area. When the elk tag is filled hunters are no longer allowed to hunt cougars until elk season is over. Hunters are reminded that they must bring their cougar into an ODFW office within 10 days to be checked and tagged, refer to regulations for details. Hunters are asked to bring in cougars thawed and mouths propped open for easier tissue sampling, teeth collection and tagging.
WESTERN GRAY SQUIRREL is now open throughout the westside of the state. Squirrel hunting is a great opportunity for young hunters to hone their hunting skills. Squirrels are found throughout Jackson, Josephine and Curry Counties with only a few hunters taking advantage of this hunting opportunity.
SOUTHWEST ZONE VIEWING
Coos County
Shorebird migrations begin
Shorebirds are starting to migrate down the coast towards wintering grounds in Mexico and Central America and other points south. Large flocks of these birds will congregate in bays, on mud flats and along coastal beaches.
Waterfowl numbers will begin to increase on the south coast as the southward migration begins. Many of the earliest migrants include American widgeon, gadwall and green-winged teal. Viewers may also see cinnamon teal, blue-winged teal, Eurasian widgeon and others. Watch for these newcomers to our area around the edges of local and larger lakes.
Soon large groups of migratory geese will also become apparent. Many of these are Aleutian cackling Canada geese heading to the central valley of California.
Douglas County
Migratory Waterfowl have been observed throughout the Umpqua Valley migrating south for the fall/winter. Look for the migratory ducks and geese at local ponds and reservoirs.
Hummingbirds: People are encouraged to take down their hummingbird feeders in October to encourage natural migration of a summer hummers.
Fish Passage: Coho Salmon are now migrating upstream and passing through Winchester dam fish ladder on the N. Umpqua River which is open to the public. To view the migrating fish go to exit 129 on I-5, proceed southeast on 99 to the fish ladder on the north side of the river.
Fish Spawning: Each year there is opportunity to observe wild Fall Chinook spawning along the South Umpqua River. The South Umpqua has a large run of Fall Chinook so look for them spawning on the major gravel bars from Roseburg to Tiller.
Denman Wildlife Area
Denman Wildlife Area has had an increase of hawks, accipiters and buteos. Many Northern Harriers, Red-tailed hawks, and Rough-legged hawks have been seen hunting throughout the valley. Hunting season is occurring on the wildlife area so be aware of hunters while watching wildlife on the area. For information on the Wildlife Area, visit ODFW's Web site.
Many flocks of Greater White-fronted geese have been spotted in the valley flying high heading towards Klamath Falls. Because they fly so high, it is easier to recognize them by their unique call.
To hear their call, visit Whatbird.com.
CENTRAL ZONE
FISHING
Weekend Fishing Opportunities
* Steelhead fishing continues to good on the Deschutes River between the mouth and Sherars Falls, with many large b-run fish showing up in the creel. Good numbers of steelhead can also be found in the South Junction and Trout Creek areas.
* Laurance Lake has been stocked twice and should provide good opportunity for rainbow and cutthroat trout. Laurance closes to fishing on Oct. 31 so anglers should take advantage of the fine weather forecast and hit the water this weekend.
ANTELOPE RESERVOIR: rainbow trout
An illegally introduced population of bullhead catfish has overpopulated the reservoir reducing water quality, but very large (18-33") rainbow trout were present in our last population assessment conducted Oct. 9. Fishing may be challenging, but well worth the effort.
BIG LAVA LAKE: rainbow trout
The bite at Big Lava is fair with some nice rainbow trout being caught.
CLEAR LAKE: rainbow trout
No recent reports.
CRANE PRAIRIE RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, brook trout, kokanee, largemouth bass
No recent reports.
CRESCENT LAKE: brown trout, kokanee, rainbow trout
No report.
CROOKED RIVER BELOW BOWMAN DAM: redband trout and mountain whitefish
Irrigation season has ended and flows in the Crooked River should hold steady between 70 and 80 cfs for the next couple months. Fishing is good and bait anglers are encouraged to get their fishing in as bait is only allowed until Oct. 31, and will not resume until spring 2009.
ODFW and OSU initiated a radio telemetry study on redband trout and whitefish in the fall of 2007. ODFW and OSU deployed new radio-tags over the weekend in fish caught by dedicated volunteer anglers from the Central Oregon Fly Fishers, ODFW, and OSU. Anglers are reminded that radio-tagged fish cannot be legally harvested. To determine if a fish is radio-tagged, anglers should check for an eight-inch wire antenna protruding from the rear of both redband and mountain whitefish. A sample of redband trout and mountain whitefish are also tagged with a numbered floy tag protruding from the back. Anglers who later catch a trout or whitefish with a floy tag are encouraged to release the fish after recording the tag number, fish length and location caught. Anglers can send the information to ODFW at (541) 447-5111 ext. 24 or michael.r.harrington@state.or.us.
CULTUS LAKE: lake trout, rainbow trout
No recent reports.
DAVIS LAKE: redband trout, largemouth bass
No recent reports. Please note Davis Lake is restricted to fly angling only.
DESCHUTES RIVER:
ODFW adopted temporary rules to allow sport anglers to fish for fall chinook in the Deschutes River beginning August 1. The following rules apply to these fisheries:
Deschutes River: The Deschutes River from the mouth at the I-84 bridge upstream to Sherars Falls is open to angling for trout, steelhead, chinook salmon from August 1, 2008 to October 31, 2008. The catch limit for chinook salmon is any two adults, and five jacks per day. Anglers may use bait from Sherars Falls downstream to the upper railroad trestle. Catch limits and restrictions applying to trout, steelhead, and coho remain unchanged from those listed in the 2008 Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations for Area 1 of the Deschutes River.
Mouth: Anglers fishing the Columbia River at the mouth of the Deschutes River can expect some b-run steelhead and coho. No recent report of angler success.
Mouth to Warm Springs: steelhead, trout, fall chinook
Steelhead angling has decent on the Deschutes between Sherars Falls and the mouth. Good numbers of fish have been entering the river all season, fish are now spread throughout the lower 100 miles of the Deschutes. Angling for steelhead in the upper stretches (South Junction, Trout Creek, Warm Springs) has dramatically improved recently. Good numbers of fall chinook are present at Sherars Falls, however, few anglers are targeting these large fish.
Anglers are encouraged to check the Sherars Falls Salmon and Steelhead Trap counts.
Trout fishing has been very good, especially with the advent of cooler weather. With cooler temperatures the fish have moved back into slower waters such as back eddies or the lower ends of riffles.
Lake Billy Chinook to Benham Falls: rainbow trout, brown trout
Angling in this reach is reportedly fair for both rainbow trout and brown trout.
Benham Falls to Wickiup Reservoir: rainbow trout, brown trout
No recent reports.
EAST LAKE: rainbow trout, brown trout, kokanee, Atlantic salmon
East Lake anglers are reporting fair catches of brown trout. Rainbow trout, Atlantic salmon and kokanee are also being caught. Kokanee are starting to turn color with some bright fish still out their being caught up to 15 inches in length.
ELK LAKE: Brook trout, kokanee
No recent reports.
FALL RIVER: rainbow trout
Angling is reported to be fair.
FROG LAKE:
Due to accessibility issue hatchery fish that were allocated to be stocked in Frog Lake were stocked in nearby Clear Lake.
HAYSTACK RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, brown trout
Anglers reporting success fishing for trout, kokanee and bullhead catfish. Large mouth bass of 3-5 lb. are also present in the reservoir.
HOOD RIVER: summer steelhead, winter steelhead
The Hood River is clear due to glacial freezing on Mt. Hood. Catch rates for summer steelhead have been good. Anglers are also reminded that retention of non fin-marked coho and chinook is prohibited in the Hood River.
Find out how many fish are being captured at the Powerdale Dam trap.
HOSMER LAKE: Atlantic salmon, brook trout
Hosmer is a fly angling only lake providing a unique opportunity for Atlantic salmon. Hosmer also provides good opportunity for brook trout in the 14 to 17-inch range.
KINGSLEY RESERVOIR: rainbow trout
Kingsley was recently stocked, and should provide excellent fishing opportunity. Adult excess hatchery steelhead from Hood River have recently been stocked.
LAKE BILLY CHINOOK: bull trout, brown trout, rainbow trout, kokanee, smallmouth bass
No recent reports.
LAURANCE LAKE: rainbow trout
Laurance has been stocked twice and should provide good opportunity for rainbow and cutthroat trout. Anglers are reminded that only fin-clipped trout may be kept, and only artificial flies and lures may be used. Laurance Lake closes to fishing on Oct. 31.
LITTLE LAVA LAKE: rainbow trout, brook trout
No recent reports.
LOST LAKE: rainbow trout
Lost Lake was recently stocked and should provide anglers good opportunity.
METOLIUS RIVER: redband trout, bull trout
No recent reports.
NORTH TWIN LAKE: rainbow trout
There is good opportunity for 8 to 12-inch rainbow with the potential for larger fish up to 18 inches as the water temperature starts to drop.
OCHOCO RESERVOIR: rainbow trout
Reports of good angling for rainbow trout.
ODELL LAKE: kokanee, lake trout, rainbow trout
There is still opportunity for some fair kokanee angling. Some of them have started to change to spawning condition; however, there are still enough fish in good condition to warrant a morning's worth of fishing. The lake trout fishing should begin picking up as the kokanee are starting to stage at the mouths of the creeks and the water temperatures are cooling. Please note that all bull trout need to be released unharmed. Anglers are encouraged to take time to learn how to differentiate between lake trout and bull trout.
PAULINA LAKE: brown trout, rainbow trout, kokanee
October typically is a good time to try one's luck for brown trout at Paulina.
PINE HOLLOW RESERVOIR: rainbow trout
No recent reports, but water levels are good and lots of fish should be available. Earlier in the year the reservoir received additional allocations of hatchery fish originally destined for (inaccessible) high elevation lakes.
PRINEVILLE RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, black crappie, bass
Bass and trout anglers have been reporting great success.
ROCK CREEK RESERVOIR: rainbow trout
The reservoir is at very low level due to the end of the irrigation season, and will hinder access. Angler reports have continued to indicate excellent catches.
SIMTUSTUS LAKE: rainbow trout, bull trout
No reports from the past weekend. Legal-sized rainbow trout were stocked before opening weekend and will continue to be stocked throughout the summer. A tribal angling permit is required in addition to a state angling license to fish in the lake. The bag limit is five trout per day including kokanee. Some bull trout are available. Bull trout limit is one fish with a 24-inch minimum as in Lake Billy chinook.
SOUTH TWIN LAKE: rainbow trout
Anglers have reported fair catches of rainbow trout in the 10 to 12-inch range.
SUTTLE LAKE: kokanee, brown trout
No recent reports.
TAYLOR LAKE: rainbow trout
No recent reports. Taylor Lake was recently stocked and should provide excellent fall trout fishing opportunity. Taylor Lake is also a good location to catch carp on the fly.
WALTON LAKE: rainbow trout
Stocked with 600 rainbows at 1.5 trout/lb and 1000 at 3 trout/lb in late August. Trout anglers have been reporting success.
WICKIUP RESERVOIR: kokanee, brown trout, rainbow trout, largemouth bass
No recent reports. Anglers should also be aware that they will be unable to access the boat launch at Wickiup Reservoir Gullpoint Campground and the North Wickiup Boat Launch from Sept. 2 to Nov. 30. Construction crews will begin reconstruction of both ramps at the popular Deschutes National Forest recreation sites beginning Sept. 2. Boaters can use Wickiup Butte Boat Launch just southeast of Wickiup Dam on Forest Road 4260 or West South Twin Boat launch, located in West South Twin Campground across from South Twin Lake.
CENTRAL ZONE HUNTING
OPEN: Cascade elk (closes Oct. 24), pheasant, waterfowl, chukar, hun, quail, forest grouse, crow, mountain quail, bear, cougar
Visit the Region's Fall Hunting Forecast
Remember to check with Ore. Dept. of Forestry, the Forest Service, BLM or other land managers about fire restrictions before going hunting; restrictions can change suddenly.
DESCHUTES DISTRICT
Cascade ELK seasons continues through Oct. 24. Opening weekend conditions were dry and elk scattered. Upper Deschutes, Paulina and Fort Rock have the best bull ratios.
The Wizard Fire may affect access to the Metolius Unit. See the Forest Service web site for latest information.
PRINEVILLE/OCHOCO WILDLIFE DISTRICT
ANTLERLESS ELK hunts continue in portions of the Maury, Ochoco, and Grizzly units. These hunts involve private lands along with some intermixed BLM lands. The largest concentrations of elk are on private lands where permission from the landowner is needed to hunt.
The Ochoco unit ANTLERLESS ELK youth hunt continues through Oct. 24. Youth hunters should have good opportunities throughout the Ochoco National Forest. Parents are reminded Rager and South Boundary Travel Management Area's on the Ochoco National Forest remain in effect. Maps are available at portal signs as you enter the TMA, or from local ODFW and forest service offices.
BEAR are mostly using higher elevation forested areas on the Ochoco National Forest in the Ochoco and Grizzly units. Bear hunters are reminded they need a controlled buck tag for the area they are in to hunt during deer season. Remember check-in is mandatory this year for successful hunters.
COUGARS are present at all elevations in the Maury, Ochoco, and Grizzly units. As with bear, cougar hunters need a controlled buck tag for the area they are hunting in if hunting during deer season. Remember cougars must be checked in at an ODFW office within 10 days after harvest.
UPLAND GAME bird hunters will find the best opportunities for blue and ruffed grouse at higher elevations, on more timbered north slopes across the Paulina and Lookout Mountain Ranger Districts of the Ochoco National Forest. The better valley quail hunting is at lower elevations on private and BLM lands where wet areas provide cover and riparian habitat. Chukar are scattered but can be found predominantly in rocky canyon areas along the upper Crooked, Deschutes, and John Day rivers.
WATERFOWL hunting opportunities are hampered by the lack of wetlands on public lands. Prineville Res. offers limited opportunities on the WMA. Most of the remaining wetlands, reservoirs, and better feeding areas are on private agricultural lands where permission from landowners is required.
THE DALLES WILDLIFE DISTRICT
PHEASANT season is now open. Most birds within the district are located on private lands. Hunters need to seek permission before hunting private lands. The pheasant hunting will probably be slow compared to the past couple years, as pheasant production was slightly below the ten-year average.
For hunters wishing to pursue COUGAR, the best opportunity will be within the Deschutes or John Day canyons, where hunters can glass open hillsides and utilize predator calls to locate these elusive animals. As fall weather begins to bring deer and elk out of higher elevations, mountain lions will follow. Cougar hunters can pursue cats around areas of concentrated wintering game herds. Successful cougar hunters, remember check-in is mandatory; see the regulations for details.
Hunters in search of BEARS should focus their efforts in areas of available forage, whether high elevation berry fields or forested sections adjacent to orchard crops. Bears are generally active during the early morning or late evening periods. Predator calls can also be used, with a fawn bleat being one of the most effective calls. Successful bear hunters, remember check-in is mandatory statewide this year.
Those wishing to pursue COYOTE will find the best success near agricultural lands. Be sure to ask permission to hunt private lands.
FOREST GROUSE and MTN QUAIL seasons are open. Mt. quail and ruffed grouse can be found along stream bottoms within the national forest, especially in dense riparian areas. Blue grouse are easiest to locate on higher elevation ridge tops, with best success in open areas and berry patches.
CENTRAL ZONE VIEWING
Prineville Area
Prineville Reservoir Wildlife Management Area
Recently fall migrating waterfowl, shorebirds, raptors, and songbirds have been moving through the region, and resting on the reservoir and shoreline. The access road along the north shoreline provides excellent vantage points to view migrating birds, and resident wildlife.
The uplands adjacent to the shoreline offer great viewing opportunities for early morning or late afternoon hikers to see deer, coyotes, small mammals and birds. Motorized traffic within the management area is restricted to the north side access road and designated routes into dispersed camping sites.
Directions to the Prineville Reservoir Wildlife Management Area
White River Wildlife Area
Visitors to the area can see a wide variety of birds, including Lewis' Woodpeckers, Cooper's hawks and Pileated Woodpecker's.
The Dalles
Lower Deschutes Wildlife Area
Many different species frequent the Deschutes Canyon at this time of year with opportunities to view a wide variety of waterbirds, passerines, deer and bighorn sheep.
Bighorn sheep are a common site in the canyon. One of the most popular spots to view Bighorn rams is across the river from Jones campground, along the Mack's canyon access road.
Many different bird species are present in the Deschutes Wildlife Area, including osprey, kingfishers, great blue herons and Bullock's Orioles.
ODFW's Lower Deschutes Wildlife Area is located in The Dalles. Directions and more information about the Lower Deschutes Wildlife Area.
Note: Due to two fires on the Lower Deschutes Wildlife Area over the summer the east bank of the river between River Mile 12 and RM 18 is burned off. The camping locations in that stretch are blackened.
SOUTHEAST ZONE
FISHING
Weekend fishing opportunities
* Recent sampling on Miller Lake showed brown trout up to 30 inches (with lots of 8-inchers as well). Best fishing is during inclement weather, or early mornings and evenings.
* Lake of the Woods is fishing well for rainbow trout, while Fourmile Lake has been good for 12 to 21-inch lake trout.
ANA RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout, hybrid bass
Ana Reservoir is open all year long for rainbow trout and hybrid bass angling. Fishing has been good for rainbow trout and hybrid bass. The use of live fish for bait is prohibited. The reservoir is dropping, and will continue to do so until December.
ANA RIVER: hatchery rainbow trout
Ana River is a great place to fish. Angling for rainbow trout has been good. The river level is high. Rainbow trout in this river can be very spooky so stealth is required. Bait angling is allowed and productive. Tui chub and pit roach are abundant in Ana River so large lures and flies mimicking minnows can be very successful.
ANTHONY LAKE: rainbow trout
Lake has been stocked with legal-sized trout. Fishing has been good.
BEULAH RESERVOIR: redband trout, hatchery rainbow trout, whitefish, bull trout
Inflow varied from approximately 46 to 52 cfs from October 15 through Oct. 20. The reservoir was 5 percent full on Oct. 19. Angling in the reservoir is slow for rainbow trout and slow for crappie.
BIG ROCK RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout
Last year the reservoir was reduced to a small pool by late summer. Freezing temperatures are suspected of having winter killed any hold over fish. Hatchery trout, fingerling size, were stocked in the reservoir this spring. Trout stocked as fingerlings will not be of harvestable size until next year.
BLITZEN RIVER: trout
Mainstem Blitzen and tributaries (except Little Blitzen) have a two fish trout bag limit from late May through Oct. 31, and a catch and release fishery from Nov. 1 through late May. The Little Blitzen is a catch and release fishery year-round. Angling is fair to good for 10 to 16-inch redband trout. Flow was stable from Oct. 13 through Oct. 19, averaging near 36 cfs.
BULLY CREEK RESERVOIR: bass, white crappie, yellow perch, catfish, and trout.
The reservoir was 11 percent full on Oct. 19. The boat ramp is out of the water. Angling is slow.
BURNS POND: trout, bass
Angling should be fair for rainbow trout.
CAMPBELL/DEADHORSE LAKES: hatchery rainbow trout
Access to these lakes was closed on July 28 by the USFS.
CHICKAHOMINY RESERVOIR: trout
Angling should be fair to good for 12 to 19-inch rainbow trout. Recent high winds made the water turbid. Angling should continue to improve as the water clears. Fly anglers have had some success with leech or mayfly imitations.
CHEWAUCAN RIVER: redband trout, largemouth bass
Angling has been very good for largemouth bass and brown bullhead in the lower river. Water temperatures have dropped significantly in the reservoir and river, aquatic vegetation on the shoreline makes angling challenging in some places. Angling is good for redband trout above Paisley.
CHRISTMAS VALLEY GOLF COURSE POND: hatchery rainbow trout
Fish are still available at Christmas Valley Pond. Target trout by boat in the deep portions of the lake at the South end. Ask permission for access to the lake at the Christmas Valley Parks and Recreation office located next to the golf course lodge.
COTTONWOOD MEADOWS: rainbow trout, brook trout
Angling is good for rainbow trout, but slow for brook trout. Aquatic vegetation makes fishing difficult from the South and West side of the lake.
COTTONWOOD RESERVOIR: native redband trout
Fishing for native redband has been slow, but large trout are frequently caught in this reservoir.
CRUMP LAKE: black crappie, native redband trout, yellow perch, brown bullhead
Crappie fishing has been slow. Access is limited by private ownership. One primitive boat ramp is available on the west side of the lake from the Plush-Adel Road. Crump Lake went dry last summer. Few fish are expected to be caught in the lake during the 2008 fishing season. Boating can be hazardous.
DELINTMENT LAKE: trout
Fair angling for rainbow trout. Extensive aquatic vegetation makes angling somewhat challenging. The area received some snowfall during recent storms.
DOG LAKE: largemouth bass, yellow perch, black crappie, brown bullhead
Dog Lake is closed to the retention of native, redband trout. This lake is not stocked with hatchery trout. Trophy bass fishing opportunities are available here.
DREWS RESERVIOR: native redband trout, largemouth bass, channel catfish, brown bullhead, yellow perch, black crappie
Reservoir levels are very low. Catch rates have been good for both bass and crappie. Boat with care; watch for fences and rock jacks submerged in the reservoir near the shoreline.
DUNCAN RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout
Decreasing water temperatures have produced improved catch rates at the reservoir. Bait angling can be good along the shoreline.
FISH LAKE (Baker County): rainbow trout, brook trout
Lake has been stocked with legal rainbow trout, and has been very good for rainbow and brook trout.
FISH LAKE (Steens Mountain): brook trout, rainbow trout
Angling has been fair to good for both rainbow and brook trout. The area received some snowfall during recent storms.
FOURMILE LAKE: rainbow trout, lake trout, kokanee, brook trout
Angling is very good for lake trout in the 12-21 inch range in about 30 feet of water. Lake trout, kokanee, and brook trout are spawning in the shallows. Large kokanee up to 16 inches are available, but overall angling for kokanee has been slow. Best angling is early morning and late evening as the afternoon wind makes angling difficult. The best angling is from a boat along the rocky northern shoreline. Rainbow trout and brook trout are available near shore in shallower water in the late evenings and mornings.
GERBER RESERVOIR: crappie, yellow perch, brown bullhead and largemouth bass
Angling has been fair for crappie and yellow perch. Most crappie angling is from a boat but yellow perch can be caught from shore. Bullhead can be caught off the bank from the campground areas. Largemouth bass are also available.
GRANDE RONDE LAKE: rainbow and brook trout
Lake has been stocked with legal rainbow trout. Fishing is good for rainbow and brook trout.
HART LAKE: black crappie, native redband trout, yellow perch, brown bullhead
Crappie angling has slowed. The lake is very shallow, and high winds can make boating hazardous.
HEART LAKE: hatchery rainbow trout and kokanee
Angling is very good for rainbow trout and fair for kokanee. Kokanee are spawning in the fall and less likely to be caught during this time of year. Fisherman have been casting out from the shoreline beyond the weed line, and using bait on the bottom to attract both rainbow trout and kokanee. Large rainbow trout feed on fathead minnow found in the lake, silver spinners can be effective gear for catching these larger fish.
HOLBROOK RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout
Fishing improves for stocked rainbow trout as water temperatures decline in the fall. The reservoir is down about 20 feet, and will remain at this level until next spring. Launching a large boat would be very difficult at the boat ramp. Fish will be concentrated in the deeper sections of the lake. Recent sampling by ODFW has shown many fish in the 8 to 10" size range still available in the reservoir.
HWY 203 POND: trout, bass, bluegill
Fishing is slow.
JUNIPER LAKE: cutthroat trout
The lake is nearly dry.
KRUMBO RESERVOIR: trout and largemouth bass
Krumbo Reservoir is open to angling through Oct. 31, and then closes until late April. Angling is fair to good for 12 to 19 inch rainbow trout. No angling report for largemouth bass. A variety of gear has been effective. There is good bank access near the boat ramp and on the southwest shoreline. There is also an accessible fishing platform near the boat ramp.
KLAMATH AND AGENCY LAKES: redband trout
Angling for redband trout has been fair. Redband trout are beginning to move back into the lakes as water quality improves. Algae is abundant in many areas of the lake.
KLAMATH RIVER: native rainbow- redband trout
The Klamath River below Keno dam opened on Oct. 1. This year most rainbow trout range from 12-16 inches with trout in the 18-20 inch size class fairly common. Angling pressure has been high and fish are getting more difficult to catch. Flows are 955 cfs. The Klamath River from JC Boyle Dam to the JC Boyle Powerhouse is consistently good for catching redband trout. Most redband trout in this section range from 6-12 inches. The Klamath River below the Powerhouse is fair for redband trout 10-14 inches. Angling in the early morning or late evening is best due to a drop in flows.
LAKE OF THE WOODS: hatchery rainbow trout, kokanee, hatchery brown trout, yellow perch, brown bullhead, largemouth bass, crappie, and smallmouth bass
Angling for hatchery rainbow trout has been good. Kokanee and brown trout are in the shallows spawning. The lake was stocked with trophy rainbow trout for Labor Day weekend. Most successful angling is from a boat for rainbow trout, brown trout and kokanee. Angling can be successful for yellow perch and brown bullhead from the shore. Yellow perch are the most common fish species in the lake.
LOFTON RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout
Angling from the shore has become difficult with the numerous tui chub and aquatic vegetation growing on the north and east shorelines. Fishing from the dam, dock, and south side of the lake allows the angler to access deeper water. Recent sampling by ODFW showed a lot of fish in the 10 to 12-inch size range still available to the angler.
LOST RIVER: brown bullhead, yellow perch, largemouth bass, Sacramento perch, pumpkinseed sunfish, bluegill
Angling is slow for warmwater fish.
LUCKY RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout
Lucky Reservoir has good populations of trout but catch rates are low due to the turbid water. Recent sampling by ODFW showed a lot of fish in the 10 to 12-inch size range still available to the angler.
MALHEUR RIVER (Warm Springs Reservoir downstream to South Fork Malheur River): redband trout and hatchery rainbow trout
Discharge below Warm Springs Dam has been shut off for the winter. Flow in the river is limited to seepage from Warm Springs Reservoir. Angling for trout is slow.
MALHEUR RIVER (from the South Fork Malheur River near Riverside, downstream to Gold Creek): redband trout and hatchery rainbow trout
Flow is very low in this stretch of the river since discharge from both Warm Springs Reservoir and Beulah Reservoir has been shut off for the winter. Angling for trout is slow.
MALHEUR RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout
The water level is well below the end of the ramp. Launching larger boats will be difficult. Angling has improved with cooler weather. Good numbers of trout are being caught from the bank.
MALHEUR RIVER, NORTH FORK: redband trout, whitefish, and bull trout
Trout angling should be fair. Remember to release bull trout.
MALHEUR RIVER, MIDDLE FORK: redband trout, brook trout, and bull trout
Trout angling should be fair. Remember to release bull trout.
MANN LAKE: trout
Slow angling for cutthroat trout. The lake is very low, and illegally introduced goldfish have disrupted the trout fishery.
MILLER LAKE: brown trout, kokanee, rainbow trout
The Lake has been producing good catches of brown trout in the 16-18 inch range. Recent sampling showed brown trout in the 8-inch range to be very common, with some browns trout up to 30 inches. The Lake is open to angling 24 hours/day, with successful brown trout anglers targeting the early morning and late evening hours. Brown trout are moving into the shallows in preparation for spawning. Best angling is during inclement weather. Most kokanee in the lake are less than eight inches and are not abundant.
MOON RESERVOIR: bass, trout
The water level is very low. Slow to fair angling for bass. No angling report for trout.
MUD LAKE: hatchery rainbow trout
The lake level has dropped significantly below half full level, but will hold at this level until spring. Catch rates have been low, but large fish are common in this lake. The lake is turbid year-round. Recent sampling by ODFW showed a lot of fish in the 10 to 12-inch size range still available to the angler.
MURRAY RESERVOIR: trout
Fishing is fair to good for rainbow.
NORTH MALHEUR BLM STOCK PONDS: rainbow trout
All of the BLM ponds in the Harper-Westfall area were stocked on May 30 with fingerling-sized rainbow trout. Littlefield and Squaw Creek reservoirs have good carryover populations. Angling is improving with the cooler weather conditions.
OVERTON RESERVOIR:
Overton Reservoir is slow for rainbow trout. Half of the reservoir surface is covered in aquatic vegetation. Your best bet is to fish in the morning or late afternoon targeting areas where the wind has cleared of surface vegetation.
OWYHEE RESERVOIR: largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, black crappie, yellow perch, catfish
The reservoir was 20 percent full on Oct. 19. The boat ramps at McCormick State Park and Leslie Gulch are out of the water. The water level is at the bottom of the day-use boat ramp making it unusable. No recent angling report.
OWYHEE RIVER (Lower): brown trout and hatchery rainbow trout
Irrigation releases below the dam were shut off on Oct. 16 for the winter. The brown trout population is beginning to spawn. Anglers need to be careful around areas with redds. Angling for rainbow trout remains good. Angling for brown trout will slow due to spawning.
OWYHEE RIVER (Upper): smallmouth bass and channel catfish
Discharge at the Rome gauge varied from approximately 118 to 120 cfs from Oct. 15 through Oct. 19. Angling for smallmouth and channel catfish should be slow.
PAIUTE RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout and hatchery Lahontan cutthroat trout
Angling is good due to a recent decline in water temperature at the reservoir. Large cutthroat are still being caught; the reservoir is about 1/3 full and will remain at this level until spring.
PHILLIPS RESERVOIR: trout, perch
Some trout are being caught. The lake has turned over. Perch angling may pick up again. Some 8-10 inch bass were caught earlier, but no recent report. Water level is 46 percent.
PILCHER RESERVOIR: trout
Reports of catching some 10 to 12-inch trout, but fishing is somewhat slow. Crappie fishing is slow. Reservoir is 40 percent full.
PINE CREEK (Baker County): trout
Pine Creek and North Pine Creek were stocked twice with legal-sized rainbow trout. Fishing is good near Cornucopia.
POLE CREEK RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout
Water level in the reservoir is at minimum pool. Angling is poor.
POWDER RIVER: trout, spring chinook
Rainbow trout fishing is fair-good below Mason Dam.
SID LUCE: hatchery rainbow trout
Fishing for trout in this reservoir has been good. Fishing in the morning is the best; as the wind can make fishing and boating challenging by late morning or early afternoon. The road into Sid Luce has eroded considerably. Four wheel drive vehicles are recommended.
SOUTH MALHEUR BLM STOCK PONDS: hatchery rainbow trout
All of the ponds in the Jordan Valley area were stocked with fingerling trout on June 3. Several reservoirs north of Jordan Valley have carryover populations. Angling has improved with the cooler weather conditions.
SPAULDING RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout
Spaulding Reservoir is dry. ODFW will not stock the reservoir with fingerlings due to continued problems with water retention at the reservoir.
SPRAGUE RIVER: redband trout, brown trout, brown bullhead, largemouth bass, yellow perch
Angling has been fair for redband trout. Angling should be slow for bass and brown bullhead below the town of Beatty. Angling is good for redband trout and large brown trout below Sandhill Crossing to the 3411 road crossing on the North Fork Sprague River. Angling for large brown trout and redband trout is fair in the South Fork. Angling is good for small brook trout and small brown trout near Camp and Corral Creek on the South Fork Sprague.
SUNSTONE RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout
Sunstone reservoir went dry last summer, but it filled to full capacity this spring. The reservoir is down a couple of feet, fish are very active, and 8-10' fish are being caught near the dam face.
SYCAN RIVER: redband trout, brown trout, brook trout
Angling is slow for redband trout below the Sycan Marsh. Flows are low. The upper Sycan is fair for redband trout and brook trout. Below Pikes crossing most fish caught are redband trout and as you progress upstream of Pikes crossing most fish are brook trout. Angling should be very good for brook trout above Pikes crossing. Look for concentrations of brook trout as they are spawning.
THIEF VALLEY RESERVOIR: trout
Fishing is slow. Reservoir is 15 percent full. The reservoir will be stocked with large fingerlings this fall.
THOMPSON RESERVOIR: largemouth bass, hatchery rainbow trout
Angling has been slow for rainbow trout and largemouth bass.
TOPSY RESERVOIR: largemouth bass, brown bullhead, crappie, yellow perch, bluegill, Sacramento perch, pumpkinseed sunfish, redband trout
Angling for crappie is slow. Most crappie are 8-10 inches. Best angling is for brown bullhead with bait just off the bottom.
TWIN LAKES (Baker County): rainbow trout
The lake has been stocked with 1,700 legal-sized rainbow trout and was re-stocked with 1,000 additional half-pound trout in August.
UPPER MIDWAY RESERVOIR: largemouth bass
Angling is difficult due to abundant aquatic vegetation. Most bass caught are 8-10 inches.
UNITY RESERVOIR: trout, bass, crappie
Trout fishing has picked up. Crappie fishing is very slow. Reservoir is 20 percent full. Campground will close the end of October.
VEE LAKE:
Angling is slow in Vee Lake. The reservoir is very low and water temperatures are rising quickly. A breech in the canal delivering water to the Lake was found and fixed by the USFS in July. Improved water conditions are expected, but water levels will not significantly increase until next year.
WARM SPRINGS RESERVOIR: smallmouth bass, white crappie, catfish, perch, and hatchery rainbow trout
The reservoir was 3 percent full Oct. 19. Inflows ranged from 50 cfs to 90cfs from Oct. 15 through Oct. 19. Fishing is slow.
WARNER LAKES: black crappie, brown bullhead, yellow perch
Fishing for crappie and perch has been slow. Most of the small lakes are dry. The lakes remaining are low and shallow; boating access can be difficult.
WILLIAMSON RIVER (UPPER): redband trout and brook trout
Angling is fair for redband trout and brook trout. Mahogany mayfly duns are hatching in the afternoon.
WILLIAMSON RIVER (LOWER):
Angling is slow. Redband trout have begun to move out of the Williamson River or farther upstream. Redband trout are more difficult to catch this time of year. Hatches of small mayflies are getting fish interested. Trolling lures below Modoc Point bridge can be effective.
WILLOW VALLEY RESERVOIR: Largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, yellow perch
Angling for largemouth bass has been slow. Small bluegill are abundant. A few nice crappie have been caught but crappie were not abundant in last year's electrofishing surveys. The reservoir is low so launching large boats might be difficult.
WITHERS LAKE: brown trout, brook trout
Fishing has improved with the decline of the vegetation and decrease in water temperature. Brown trout are actively feeding on aquatic bug hatches while the brook trout are spawning and less likely to bite this time of year.
WOLF CREEK RESERVOIR: crappie, trout
Fishing is fair-poor for 11 to 14-inch trout, and they are skinny. Some crappie are biting around the dock. Reservoir is 35 percent full.
WOOD RIVER AND TRIBUTARIES: redband trout, brown trout, brook trout, yellow perch
Angling is fair for brown trout and redband trout. Angling for redband trout is improving as more fish move into the Wood River to stage for spawning. Small mahogany dun mayflies are emerging in the afternoon. Caddis fly activity is increasing in the evening. Dry fly fishing for brown trout can be very good this time of year on overcast days.
YELLOWJACKET LAKE: trout
Fair to good angling for 10 to 13-inch rainbow trout. Extensive aquatic vegetation may make angling difficult. Fly anglers have had good success using leech and midge imitations. Bait anglers have had good success using PowerBait.
SOUTHEAST ZONE HUNTING
OPEN: Cascade elk (closes Oct. 24), pheasant, waterfowl, chukar, hun, quail, forest grouse, crow, mountain quail, bear, cougar
Visit the Region's Fall Hunting Forecast
Remember to check with Ore. Dept. of Forestry, the Forest Service, BLM or other land managers about fire restrictions before going hunting; restrictions can change suddenly.
MALHEUR COUNTY
The majority of PHEASANTS occupy private lands, so ability to access quality habitat will influence hunting success.
UPLAND BIRD production in Malheur County was mixed this year. Chukar production was good at 2.8 chicks per adult but overall population trend was down from last year. Pheasant numbers appear to be on par with last season. California quail production was good, the best hunting occurs on or adjacent to agricultural areas and in the brushy riparian zones in the Malheur river drainage.
Good public WATERFOWL and some big game and upland bird hunting is available on the Snake River with a jet boat, or other floating device. Shallow water will limit access with propeller driven boats. Many of the islands in the river are part of the Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge and are open to hunting. Additional information is available on their website www.fws.gov/deerflat/index.htm
BEAR hunting is now open. Bear numbers are lower in Southeast zone than in other portions of the state due to limited habitat but populations are stable to increasing. Look in forested areas within the zone. Remember bear check-in is now mandatory for successful hunters.
COUGAR hunting is now open. Populations in Southeast Zone are healthy. Remember check-in is mandatory for successful hunters.
LAKE COUNTY
The first limited entry rifle bull ELK season opens on Oct. 29 Elk numbers are very low throughout the county.
PHEASANT populations are naturally low in the county.
CHUKAR and CALIFORNIA QUAIL numbers are higher than last year but still below the long term average. Hunters will find spotty distribution across the better habitats. All of the desert rims in will have some birds. Hunters are reminded that quail hunting is closed on Hart Mountain National Antelope Refuge
FOREST GROUSE hunting is open. The best areas for blue and ruffed grouse are in the Cascades on Winema National Forest. Blue grouse can be found along ridge tops in more open forest habitats in both Klamath and Lake Counties while ruffed grouse are generally found along riparian areas, with few ruffed grouse found in Lake Co.
BEAR hunting is now open. Bear numbers are lower in Southeast zone than in other portions of the state due to limited habitat but populations are stable to increasing. Look in forested areas within the zone. Remember bear check-in is now mandatory.
COUGAR hunting is now open. Populations in Southeast Zone are healthy. Remember check-in is mandatory for successful hunters.
By this time of year COYOTE diets consist of rabbits and small rodents. They respond well to calling, and hunters should focus efforts in sage brush areas or natural openings in forest habitats. Hunters should be aware that cougars will respond to predator calls.
KLAMATH COUNTY
CHUKARS were released on the Lower Klamath Hills south of Klamath Falls for the opening weekend. More releases are planned for early November. The Lower Klamath Hills is located 10 miles south of Klamath Falls accessed from Lower Lake Road. Hunters must walk into the hunt area from the lower BLM access point along Lower Lake Road.
Cascade ELK season continues through the week. Opening weekend found dry conditions which affected hunter success.
First period Rocky Mountain ELK season begins Oct.29. Hunter success will be dependent on wet weather conditions.
Good opportunities exist for California QUAIL hunting. Best prospects are in foothill areas next to agricultural lands. Hunters can also find mountain quail primarily in the Cascades. Hunters are reminded the daily bag limit for mountain quail in Klamath County is 2.
PHEASANTS will be released at the Klamath Wildlife Area and selected private lands open to the public; call 541-883-5732 for more information.
The Klamath County Museum is looking for native animal specimens to use in a new forestry exhibit. Hunters who harvest a particularly impressive game mammal-particularly a Rocky Mtn elk, mule deer or black bear-this fall should consider donating it to the museum. Smaller mammals, birds, reptiles and fish native to the Upper Klamath Basin are also needed. The museum will cover the cost of taxidermy but special care needs to be taken in handling the hide of the animal. Call (541) 883-4208 for more information.
BEAR season continues and good opportunities exist. Bears are being taken in the Keno, West Sprague, and West Fort Rock Units in the Cascade Mountains. Remember that check-in is now mandatory for successful hunters.
Fair prospects exist for FOREST GROUSE for those hunters wishing to pursue these birds. Best prospects for blue grouse are on semi-open ridge tops throughout the county, while ruffed grouse can be found along riparian areas primarily in the Cascades.
COUGAR season remains open with good populations, although hunting will be difficult until late fall when colder weather improves conditions to locate animals. Remember check-in is mandatory for successful hunters.
HARNEY COUNTY
The first rifle seasons for ROCKY MT. ELK will begin Oct. 29. Deer hunters have reported seeing small groups of elk in both the Silvies and Malheur River Units, and some larger bulls have been noted. Based on over-winter survival from last year and precipitation regimes this summer, elk hunting is expected to be fair to good. Fewer spikes are anticipated in the harvest due to poor calf recruitment this spring, however elk population numbers remain strong throughout the district. Cooler weather and frequent storms should provide good opportunities for tracking and stalking throughout the season.
WATERFOWL season opened Oct. 11. Hunting on Malheur National Wildlife Refuge's Malheur Lake Hunt Area is expected to be slow due to extremely low water conditions in Malheur Lake. Hunting should be fair on local BLM reservoirs and on private land in the Harney basin.
CHUKAR and CALIFORNIA QUAIL seasons opened Oct. 11. Upland brood surveys showed good reproduction in most areas; however the number of birds observed was still quite low. Hunting is expected to be fair with birds widely scattered due to recent rains.
PHEASANT seasons open Oct. 18. Hunting is best around agricultural areas where access is predominantly on private lands. Public access to pheasant and quail hunting is available through the Lawen Access and Habitat Area south of Burns. Maps of the area can be found on the ODFW website at http://www.dfw.state.or.us/resources/hunting/map/index.asp.
COUGAR hunting is now open. Populations in Southeast Zone are healthy. Don't forget successful hunters must check-in cougars no more than 10 days after harvest.
KLAMATH WILDLIFE AREA
PHEASANT OPENING DAY REPORT: 136 hunters harvested 60 rooster pheasant and expended 308 hunter hours during the opening day of pheasant hunting on the Miller Island Unit of Klamath Wildlife Area. This resulted in a 0.44 bird/hunter and 0.19 birds/hour expended in the field per hunter. This is a 19% increase in the number of hunters compared to the average number of hunters from 2003 n 2007. The number of birds harvested was 4% lower than the five-year average with 2% increase in the number of hours expended in the field by hunters. This resulted in a decrease of 20% of birds harvested per hunter and a 7% decrease in the number of birds harvested per hour compared to the five year rolling average.
Klamath WA Waterfowl Hunting Stats
Gorr Island, Shoalwater Bay and Sesti Tgawaals Point Units:
No permit required and open daily during authorized hunting seasons.
Miller Island Unit:
Hunting is by permit only. Entry permits shall be in possession while in the field; checkout is required. The check station is located under the area light on Miller Island Rd. The check station is staffed by ODFW personnel in the mornings until Dec. 14, and is a self-service station in the afternoons and all day on hunt days after Dec. 14. The check station opens 1-1/2 hours before waterfowl shooting time.
Hunting dates for Miller Island will be Oct. 23, 25*, 27, 29, 31, even- numbered days in Nov. and Dec. and odd-numbered days in January. (*Reservation hunting is in effect. Oct. 25 is reserved for youth hunters in subunits A and B only. Subunit C is open to all hunters on a first come, first served basis).
Upland game bird shooting hours are from 8 a.m. until the close of waterfowl shooting hours.
Reminder: No person shall use or possess any shot other than federally-approved nontoxic shot while in the Miller Island Unit.
Throughout the pheasant season a pheasant release program will occur. These birds have been donated by Unlimited Pheasants and will be released into subunits A, B and C.
» Subunit A: North of Miller Island Rd and east of Delameter Rd hunting is permitted until 1 p.m. through Dec. 14. From Oct. 11 - Dec. 14, hunter numbers will be limited to 35 at any one time.
» Subunit B: West of Delameter and Miller Island rds hunting is permitted until 1 p.m. through Dec. 14. From Oct. 11 - Dec. 14 hunter numbers will be limited to 35 at any one time.
» Subunit C: East and south of Miller Island Rd hunting is permitted all day. From Oct.11 - Dec. 14 hunter numbers will be limited to 35 until 1 p.m. After 1 p.m. hunting is allowed with a self-service permit available at a check station located on Miller Island Rd, West
Klamath Wildlife Area is closed to deer hunting.
Some wetland units in Subunit B are dry to facilitate habitat management activities to reduce encroaching bulrush and cattail and increase open water for waterfowl and shorebird use.
The gravel access road and boat ramp on Miller Island Unit of the Klamath Wildlife Area will be closed intermittently until Oct. 31 to allow for road work and boat ramp and dock improvements. Alternate facilities are available at Veteran's Park in Klamath Falls, or PPL Park near Keno. Access will be allowed on weekends and occasionally after project work hours for recreationists to launch and retrieve boats.
The improvement project was made possible through grants received from the Oregon State Marine Board (OSMB) and the Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife (ODFW) Sport Fish Restoration Fund. The ODFW grant paid for 50 percent of the cost, and the Marine Board grant covered 50 percent. This project includes grading, widening and straightening of the gravel access road, replacing the boat dock and ramp, and development of a wheelchair accessible parking area and boarding dock. This will make the boat ramp and road safer for the public to use.
Dog training may occur on the entire area except for posted Safety Zones. Overnight camping is not allowed on the Miller Island Unit. If you have any questions, please contact Klamath Wildlife Area at (541) 883-5734.
SUMMER LAKE WILDLIFE AREA
First week WATERFOWL Season was fair. Hunter participation was up considerably about 36% from the previous year but success (birds per hunter or bph) was down nearly -45%
Summer Lake WA Waterfowl Statistics
Weather was very mild (warm temperatures, clear skies and very little wind) that resulted in very little bird movement or activity and poor hunting conditions.
Hunter check-in totaled 590 and with 92.4% checkout, the reported harvest was 511 birds (370 ducks, 73 geese, 1 Am. coots, 13 ring-necked pheasant and 54 CA quail.
Duck harvest consisted of 103 mallards, 81 gadwall, 53 Am. green-winged teal, 52 Am. wigeon, 32 N. pintail, 30 N. shoveler, 7 ringneck ducks, and 12 total ducks for 5 other species. The duck per hunter average was 0.74, down -17.6% from 2007.
Goose harvest consisted of 50 snow, 16 white-fronts and 6 Canadas and averaged 0.15 geese per hunter which was down -82.2% from the same week last year.
Other species harvest was very low with just 1 Am. coot reported. California quail harvest (54) was up almost 60% from the previous year. Ring-necked pheasant season opened on Oct. 18 and the 13 birds harvested was up compared to the 9 taken in..
On Wednesday Oct. 15 about 33,000 ducks and 9,500 geese were observed on the weekly count. Migrants were moving through the area over the past week and new birds have probably arrived. The next count is scheduled for Oct. 22 and results will be posted shortly thereafter on the Wildlife Area's telephone answering machine and department website.
Prospects for the upcoming weekend are only fair and very dependent on favorable weather conditions. Recent weather conditions are very mild (cool to warm, clear skies and little to no wind) and hunting success is low.
Free daily hunting permits are required for all hunters and are available at the Wildlife Area (WA) Headquarters 24 hours/day. Self service permits can be obtained in the lobby (please follow directions carefully) or will be issued by WA staff at the office counter. Check out is mandatory and can be accomplished by dropping off permits in boxes found at each campground, major access areas and at Headquarters at the end of the day.
Hunters need to sure they have current hunting licenses, waterfowl and/or upland validations, Harvest Information Program (HIP) validations and a signed Federal Duck Stamp (if 16 year of age or older). Youth hunters under 18 years of age must have a Hunter Education Card in their possession while in the field.
Hunters need to be aware that the River Ranch Unit will be dry during the 2008-09 hunting season due to marsh management and vegetation control activities. Hunting is still permitted in this 530 acre unit, but over-water and pond hunting opportunities will be affected.
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
Large numbers of migrant lesser and greater sandhill cranes can still be found near agricultural lands around the Harney Basin and on Malheur National Wildlife Refuge. Migrant waterfowl species such as greater white-fronted geese, American wigeon, and northern pintail have arrived and but viewing opportunities are limited due to limited water conditions this year. Look to agricultural lands near Burns for viewing opportunities of migrant Canada geese.
Look around green agricultural fields or wetlands in the early mornings and evenings to see deer and antelope while they are actively feeding during the cool part of the day. As the season cools, expect deer to be active for longer periods in both morning and evening.
Western larch and quaking aspen stands are now in full fall color. Viewing and photo opportunities can be found throughout the northern portions of Harney County in both the Ochoco and Malheur National Forests. The Steens Mountains also provide abundant viewing of autumn aspen stands at higher elevations.
Klamath Falls Area
Aspen Lake provides prime viewing for many species of wildlife including sandhill crane, great-blue heron, wood duck, gadwall, mallard, cinnamon teal. Early morning or late evening are good bets for elk and deer around the edge of the lake. Aspen Lake is located three miles south of Doak Mountain summit on Highway 140 west of Klamath Falls.
Moore Park is a great location to view many species of passerine birds including nuthatches, warblers, chickadees, flycatchers, swallows and sparrows. Several woodpecker species can also be observed including Lewis' woodpecker, red-shafted flicker and white-headed woodpecker.
Moore Park is located at the south end of Upper Klamath Lake off Lakeshore Drive in Klamath Falls, Oregon. This city park is adjacent to Putnam's Point Park which is across from the north end of the Link River Trail.
Upper Klamath Lake
Upper Klamath Lake, located just north of Klamath Falls, provides prime viewing for many aquatic birds. Many aquatic birds are including Western and Clark's grebes are well into the nesting season. Young grebes can be observed hitching rides on their parents backs near shoreline areas. Pied-billed and eared grebes can also be observed along lakeshore areas. White pelicans and double-crested cormorants can be found foraging on fish. Pelicans are colonial nesters and only nest in a few isolated areas which offer security from harassment.
Klamath Falls Wildlife Area
Some wetland units in Subunit B are dry to facilitate habitat management activities to reduce encroaching bulrush and cattail and increase open water for waterfowl and shorebird use.
The gravel access road and boat ramp on Miller Island Unit will be closed intermittently until Oct. 31 to allow for road work and boat ramp and dock improvements. Alternate facilities are available at Veteran's Park in Klamath Falls, or PPL Park near Keno.
Access will be allowed on weekends and occasionally after project work hours for recreationists to launch and retrieve boats. Please yield right-of-way to construction vehicles, and comply with all posted signs.
The improvement project was made possible through grants received from the Oregon State Marine Board (OSMB) and the Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife (ODFW) Sport Fish Restoration Fund. The ODFW grant paid for 50 percent of the cost, and the Marine Board grant covered 50 percent. This project includes grading, widening and straightening of the gravel access road, replacing the boat dock and ramp, and development of a wheelchair accessible parking area and boarding dock. This will make the boat ramp and road safer for the public to use.
Dog training may occur on the entire area except for posted Safety Zones. Overnight camping is not allowed on the Miller Island Unit. If you have any questions, please contact Klamath Wildlife Area at (541) 883-5734.
Lake County and Lakeview Area
Most of the fall migrating shorebirds have moved through the county. Lake Abert and the mudflats next to the Warner Valley lakes remain the best places for viewing, lesser numbers of Avocet, Stilts and various peeps.
Summer Lake Wildlife Area
This section was updated on Oct. 15. Vehicle access to the Wildlife Viewing Loop is closed through the remainder of the year until Jan. 26, 2009 due to waterfowl hunting season.
Nearly all of the Area's wetlands are well-flooded and receiving considerable waterbird use. Ducks, shorebirds, waders and passerine species are staging in good numbers. Fall migration is well underway and southward migrants are appearing in good numbers. Waterfowl hunting seasons have started and viewing opportunities will be limited to areas open to hunting as well as the Schoolhouse Lake Viewing Blind.
Waterfowl
Fall migration is in full swing now. Ducks from outlying areas and northern breeding locales are beginning to congregate. Many species are beginning to group into large flocks as they prepare for migration. Nearly all cinnamon teal have departed for California, Mexico and other Central America wintering areas.
Resident Canada geese are dispersed widely across the Wildlife Area and adjacent private lands. Greater white-fronted geese are nearing a peak now as migrating flocks are moving through at this time. Snow geese are beginning to arrive as well, but large numbers are not expected until later in the month.
Shorebirds, waders and other waterbirds
Shorebird fall migration is nearly over, and most migrants have passed through the area. A few dowitchers (mostly long-billed), killdeer, peeps (least and Western sandpipers) and yellow-legs (greater and lesser) can still be found.
Sandhill cranes have mostly departed, only a few remain.
Other waterbird species are becoming scarce now with only a few lingering individuals still present.
Raptors and Others
Resident raptors remain scattered throughout the Wildlife Area as well as on private lands along Hwy 31. Migrant and dispersing juvenile raptors are found in good numbers throughout the Summer Lake Basin and are very apparent along Highway 31. Meadows offer excellent foraging opportunities for many raptors. Northern harriers are especially numerous over marsh and hay meadows. Bald eagles are infrequently seen across the Wildlife Area now. Peregrine and prairie falcons, Cooper's and sharp-shinned hawks and golden eagles are sometimes seen during this time of the year. Great-horned owls chicks have fledged and difficult to discern from adults.
Upland game birds
California quail are grouping into larger coveys now. Pheasant broods continue to be observed around agricultural and Northend areas.
Eurasian collared doves remain at Headquarters Complex and resident mourning doves are scarce.
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. Other migrant passerines can still be found is low numbers, a few migrant warblers were still present over the past week.
Facilities and Access
During waterfowl hunting seasons, access is restricted to areas open for hunting and to the Schoolhouse Lake Viewing Blind. Camping is permitted at four sites on the Wildlife Area. Users are urged to exercise care with campfires. Campgrounds are primitive but each has vault toilets, trash barrels and a few picnic tables.
The Wildlife Viewing Loop will be closed on Oct. 8 through general waterfowl hunting season and into late January 2009.
Access to Schoolhouse Lake Viewing Blind will remain open to foot travel and will afford excellent opportunities for observation of staging waterbirds in the refuge area.
Habitat
Most of the Wildlife Area's wetland habitats are well flooded now, and large areas of shallowly flooded seasonal wetlands are available to waterbirds. Evapotranspiration rates remain high and many wetland areas are slow to respond to fall flooding. Irrigation season in Summer Lake Valley has ended, and significant increase in flows down Ana River and towards many wetland units on the Wildlife Area is occurring. Water levels are increasing in most seasonally flooded wetland units and will provide diverse foraging opportunities to migrant waterbirds. These wetlands are favored by a wide variety of migrants as and are very rich in natural food sources.
Wetland enhancement/construction activities have ended in the River Ranch unit and conditions in this 530 acre unit will remain dry through the end of fall. Link Marsh unit that was held dry last year is being flooded at this time and large numbers of waterfowl and other waterbirds can be found feeding in this area.
Warm day time temperatures continue and large numbers of flys, midges and other flying insects are found throughout the Area.
Meadows and hayfields found on adjacent private lands and in selected locations on the Wildlife Area were recently flooded and considerable vegetation regrowth has occurred.
Upland habitat remains in very good condition due to an excellent growth of many species of forbs and grasses. Recently farmed food plots are providing foraging sites to many species looking for seeds and invertebrates in cultivated areas. Tree and shrub developments at the Middle Well and Turner Place have produced abundant fruit and considerable bird use is occurring at this time.
Please contact Summer Lake Wildlife Area at (541) 943-3152 or e-mail martin.j.stlouis@state.or.us for additional information.
NORTHEAST ZONE
FISHING
Weekend Fishing Opportunities
* Angling below Threemile Dam on the Umatilla River continues to be good for jack coho and fall chinook
* Trout fishing in the lower Grande Ronde, Wallowa and Imnaha Rivers has been good.
* Good steelhead fishing is now available in the John Day River all the way up to Clarno.
ALDRICH PONDS: trout
Limit is two fish per day. Access is 4 wheel drive only plus a two mile hike. Some nice trout are available but the season closes Oct. 31 here.
GRANDE RONDE, WALLOWA, IMNAHA RIVERS AND TRIBUTARIES: trout, steelhead
Trout angling in the lower Grande Ronde, Wallowa, and Imnaha Rivers is fair to good. Steelhead angling in the lower Grande Ronde and lower Imnaha Rivers is fair. Catch rates in last week's creel surveys averaged 8.4 hours per steelhead landed on the lower Grande Ronde.
HONEYMOON, TEPEE, SALT CREEK AND McGRAW PONDS: trout
Honeymoon, Salt Creek, McGraw and Tepee ponds have been stocked with rainbow trout.
JOHN DAY RIVER: bass, steelhead
Steelhead angling is now good up to Clarno with a daily limit of two fin-clipped fish. Smallmouth bass and channel catfish angling is slow due to cooler water.
Trout angling will close Oct. 31.
JUBILEE LAKE: trout
Jubilee Lake was stocked in late August, and angling has been good.
KINNEY LAKE: trout
Kinney Lake has been stocked with legal-sized trout. Trout angling should be good.
MAGONE LAKE: trout
Fishing for rainbow and brook trout is fair.
McKAY RESERVOIR:
Anglers are reminded McKay Reservoir is closed to all angling from Oct. 1 n April 30.
MORGAN LAKE: trout, bullheads, crappie
Fishing is fair. The lake will be closed for fishing Nov. 1.
PENDLAND LAKE: trout
The lake experienced a heavy winter kill and angling will be greatly impacted this spring and summer. The lake has been stocked with legal-sized trout and angling should be fair. The lake also will be re-stocked with fingerlings.
ROWE CREEK RESERVOIR, LONG CREEK POND, CAVENDER POND AND ANSON WRIGHT POND: trout
Fishing for rainbow trout is good. Fish are feeding again with the return of cool weather.
UMATILLA FOREST PONDS: trout
The Umatilla forest ponds have been stocked and angling should improve as water temperatures cool.
UMATILLA RIVER: steelhead, coho, fall chinook jacks
Angling below Threemile Dam has been good for jack coho and fall chinook. Last week anglers averaged 3.1 hours per coho adult and 14.9 hours per jack salmon, steelhead angling has been slow. Angling should continue to improve as water temperatures cool and fish numbers increase. Anglers should consult the synopsis for a complete list of Umatilla and Columbia River angling regulations. Catch and release trout angling in the upper river should be fair.
WALLOWA LAKE: rainbow trout
Wallowa Lake has been stocked with legal-sized rainbow. Trout fishing is good for boat and bank anglers using bait or lures.
WILLOW CREEK RESERVOIR: trout, crappie, bullhead catfish, large and smallmouth bass
A health advisory has been issued for high levels of blue-green algae in Willow Creek Reservoir. The Oregon Department of Human Services recommends that if people choose to eat fish from waters where algae blooms are present, they should remove all fat, skin and organs from the fish before cooking. For local information contact the US Army Corps of Engineers Natural Resource Management Office at (541) 676-9009. For health information, contact Ken Kauffman, DHS Environmental Health Specialist at (971)673-0435. Angling for warmwater species should be good.
NORTHEAST ZONE HUNTING
OPEN: Pheasant, waterfowl, chukar, hun and California quail, controlled fall turkey, forest grouse, crow, bear and cougar
Visit the NE Fall Hunting Forecast
Wolves may be present in northeast Oregon
On July 18, 2008 a wolf pack with pups was confirmed in northern Union County. Wolves are listed under Oregon's Endangered Species Act and also protected by federal law. It is unlawful to shoot them. Coyote hunters in northeastern Oregon need to take extra care to identify their target as wolves can look like coyotes, especially wolf pups in the mid-summer and fall.
ODFW needs hunters' assistance to establish wolves' presence in Oregon; please report any wolf sightings or wolf sign to La Grande office (541) 963-2138 or online.
BAKER COUNTY
UPLAND BIRDS had a rough winter but those that nested this spring had large broods. While production is still down from the long term average due to low numbers last year, things are heading in the right direction.
GOOSE hunters have been experiencing success in agricultural fields in the Baker and Keating valleys. A handful of DUCKS are also around on area ponds and rivers; numbers should increase with colder weather. For best success try the Powder River or area around Phillips Reservoir.
FOREST GROUSE season is open. Ruffed grouse can be found in dense riparian shrub cover while blue grouse can be found at higher elevations in more open coniferous forests. ODFW is collecting wings and tails from both species. Please place one entire wing and the entire tail in a paper sack. Mark the bag with the species, date taken, and general location and drop it off at a collection barrel or an ODFW office.
BEAR and COUGAR seasons are open. Remember both cougar and bear check-in are now mandatory. Bear hunters have been doing well using spot and stalk tactics. For best success try portions of the Lookout Mountain and Pine Creek units with abundant berries.
COYOTE numbers are good throughout the district. Remember to ask for permission before hunting on private properties.
BAKER COUNTY
UPLAND BIRD hunters are reporting fair success. Pheasant season opened Oct. 18, for best results concentrate your efforts near agricultural grain crops
GOOSE hunters have been experiencing success in agricultural fields in the Baker and Keating valleys. A handful of DUCKS are also around on area ponds and rivers; numbers should increase with colder weather. For best success try the Powder River or area around Phillips Reservoir.
FOREST GROUSE season is open. Ruffed grouse can be found in dense riparian shrub cover while blue grouse can be found at higher elevations in more open coniferous forests. ODFW is collecting wings and tails from both species. Please place one entire wing and the entire tail in a paper sack. Mark the bag with the species, date taken, and general location and drop it off at a collection barrel or an ODFW office.
While buck DEER seasons have ended, doe seasons have begun in most areas. For best success target private land agricultural areas. If you have a tag, contact ODFW Baker office (541) 523-5832 for recommendations on areas with highest agricultural damage. Hunters who are willing to ask permission from private landowners with often be rewarded with hunting access.
Bull ELK season is just around the corner so hunters should continue to scout. Many cow seasons are in full swing. Hunters with a cow tag should concentrate on areas adjacent to agricultural land.
BEAR and COUGAR seasons are open. Remember both cougar and bear check-in are now mandatory. Bear hunters have been doing well using spot and stalk tactics. For best success try portions of the Lookout Mountain and Pine Creek units with abundant berries.
COYOTE numbers are good throughout the district. Remember to ask for permission before hunting on private properties.
MORROW, GILLIAM and WHEELER COUNTIES
This year's game UPLAND BAME BIRD population numbers are similar to last year's. Doves are up, pheasant, huns, and California quail are up slightly, chukar are down. All are still below average and the number of chicks per brood was down for all species. Unusually cold weather and late rains are the primary cause; getting chicks through June-February seems to have been a challenge. Hunters will need to be prepared to cover some ground to find birds this season. Finding birds is do-able, shooting a limit will be tougher to accomplish.
To COYOTE hunt, find a good location with fresh coyote sign, preferably in an area of little human activity. Watch wind direction to help prevent giving away your location. Using fawn distress type calls, in addition to rabbit, can be very effective.
BEAR and COUGAR seasons are now open. Cougar numbers are increasing in most areas. Bear numbers are increasing in the Heppner and Fossil units but populations are still relatively low compared to other areas of northeast Oregon. Remember check-in is mandatory for successful hunters for both bear and cougar; see the regulations for details.
To COYOTE hunt, find a good location with fresh coyote sign, preferably in an area of little human activity. Watch wind direction to help prevent giving away your location. Using fawn distress type calls, in addition to rabbit, can be very effective.
UMATILLA COUNTY
Mountain QUAIL hunters will find the largest number of birds in the side drainages of the North Fork John Day River. It will be a down year for PHEASANTS; biologists did not see many broods. HUNS can be found in the foothills of the Blues. There are a few CHUKAR but most hunting is on private land.
WATERFOWL hunting should be average; try the Columbia Basin Wildlife Areas. Habitat conditions in the Columbia Basin also still support large numbers of wintering Canada geese.
BEAR and COUGAR seasons are now open. Bear density is highest north of Interstate 84. Cougar populations are high. Remember check-in is mandatory for successful hunters for both bear and cougar; see the regulations for details.
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.
UNION COUNTY
DUCK production in the Grande Ronde Valley was set back from flooding early in the nesting season. Luckily, re-nesting success has been good which should result in an average harvest year for hunters on local birds. Hunting prospects for valley QUAIL, HUNS and PHEASANT are expected to be average or slightly below average.
GAME BIRDS n Quail/ Chukar/Hun seasons are currently open. As the fall berries ripen, grouse may be located near those berry patches. The wet weather last spring appeared to have been hard on upland bird chicks. We are seeing less young quail, huns and pheasant than normal. Some of the young birds are also smaller than normal.
ELK populations are over management objective (m.o.) in Catherine Creek, at m.o. in Starkey and under m.o. in Mt. Emily. It is encouraging that calf survival this year in all these units is higher than last year. Those male calves will be spike bulls available to hunters this season. Elk hunter success is expected to be better than average.
BEAR and COUGAR hunting are open. Numbers are good in all units. Ripening fruit will become important for bears during late summer and hunters should check these areas for activity. Hunters may encounter a deer or elk killed by a bear or cougar. Setting up about 150 yards downwind of the kill site during the twilight hours may be productive. Always prop the mouth wide open in cougars and bears immediately after harvest; it is easier for biologists to pull a tooth. Hunters bringing in frozen heads with the jaw shut will be asked to return at a later date with the jaw open. Remember the new rule; all harvested bears must be checked in within 10 days of harvest.
COYOTE - Numbers are strong throughout the county. Using predator calls as a lure and moving call sights after 20 minutes is an effective method for harvesting coyotes. Be sure to ask permission before hunting on private land.
LADD MARSH WILDLIFE AREA
WATERFOWL conditions look considerably better than last year. Cooler fall temperatures have made it possible to fill most of the wetlands along Peach Road. Several thousand birds are currently using the wetlands. The key to waterfowl hunting at Ladd Marsh is wind conditions. Staff recommends that hunters check weather conditions on the internet. If high winds are forecast for Ladd and Pyles Canyon, hunting should be good.
UPLAND BIRD hunting will be fair to good. Cold and wet conditions existed through most of June with several days never reaching fifty degrees. Snow was recorded in the valley on June 10. These conditions can be devastating to young pheasant broods. Some re-nesting did occur, but it never makes up for the early nests. The wet spring and summer conditions did create heavy cover, so dogs are highly recommended.
WALLOWA DISTRICT
Controlled antlerless DEER hunts will continue through Oct. 26. Hunter success is expected to be good and hunters are reminded to obtain permission from landowners prior to accessing private lands.
Hunter success has been poor for FOREST GROUSE. Blue grouse numbers are still low and hunters can expect to put in more time hiking to find birds. Ridges and areas near springs are good places to find birds. Ruffed grouse populations are more stable and birds can be found in or near most riparian areas.
UPLAND GAME BIRDS: Chukar numbers are well below average and will be widely scattered. Best areas are public lands adjacent to the Snake River. California quail had good hatching success this year and hunters can find good numbers of quail on agricultural lands throughout the Wallowa Valley. Pheasant numbers are low.
WATERFOWL: Duck hunting will continue to be slow until additional migrants show up in the valley. Currently jump shooting ponds and other open water provides best success.
COUGAR numbers are still strong through out the district. Hunters will improve chances of success by locating a recent kill site and calling in the area or waiting for a lion to return to a cached carcass.
Opportunities for BLACK BEAR are good and hunters should focus efforts in riparian areas where berries are ripening, or old homestead areas where fruit trees are still producing fruit.
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.
TRAVEL MANAGEMENT: Noregaard, whiskey Creek, and Shamrock vehicle road closures will be in effect. Wildhorse Ridge n Tepee Butte roads in the Chesnimnus unit, and the Lord Flat Road and PO Saddle Road in the Snake River unit are closed to vehicles.
NORTHEAST ZONE VIEWING
Baker County
Bighorn sheep can be seen along the Burnt River Canyon west of Durkee or along the Snake River Road south of Richland. Rams are in full rut and can be seen near ewe lambs groups. Please enjoy the rutting activity but do not disturb the animals. Mountain Goats can bee seen along the crest of the Elkhorn Mountains. With the onset of cold weather at higher elevations most goats have shed their summer coats and are in full winter attire. For the best viewing opportunities take the short hike to the Twin Lakes basin. Nannies can be distinguished from Billies by their horn curvature and body size.
Gilliam, Morrow and Wheeler Counties
With fall's colder weather, most of the summer migrants are on their way to wintering areas. Rough-legged hawks and Short-eared owls should start showing up in October. Sharp Shinned Hawks are being seen along the waterways. As winter approaches, duck and goose species will start appearing in greater numbers.
Elk can be seen from Heppner/Spray junction on Highway 19. Best time is dusk, watch the hill sides south of the river. Elk can be seen from the junction to Kimberly.
Union County
Consider a short driving tour from Elgin north to Palmer valley. Early morning or dusk time periods are best. Turkeys should be moving towards Elgin and whitetail deer and elk may be seen along the loop roads in Palmer Valley.
Young gallinaceous birds such as pheasants quail and Hungarian partridge are growing rapidly and can be seen in early morning in mowed fields and along road on the perimeter of Grande Ronde Valley. For a fairly long driving tour, try going up the Grande Ronde River through Vey meadows, North Fork John Day Campground, Anthony Lakes ski area then down to North powder. This would be great in the early morning or late evening. You could see elk deer possibly a bear, grouse, and a great variety of smaller birds.
ODFW's Ladd Marsh Wildlife Area, La Grande
Fall migration is in progress for some species of birds. Migrating shorebirds may be seen in any of the shallow water flats on the Tule Lake Public Access Area. Check the tree and shrub rows for migrant passerines.
White birds continue to be in evidence on Ladd Marsh. Groups of American white pelicans can be seen from Foothill road as they feed in the wetlands below. Great egrets are scattered throughout the wildlife area and two tundra swans have stayed on Ladd Marsh all summer. The great blue heron chicks from the Catherine Creek rookery appear to have fledged as high numbers of juveniles have been seen throughout the area.
An estimated thirteen pairs of greater sandhill cranes nested at Ladd Marsh this year. These birds, along with their young and additional non-breeding and migrating cranes may be seen in fields in and around the wildlife area. Please report any banded sandhill cranes observed to wildlife area staff (541-963-4954). Banded cranes may have colored bands on both legs; it is important to note the combination and position of the color bands and which leg they were on.
Birds are not the only wildlife to be seen on Ladd Marsh. Elk and deer may also be observed from Foothill Road and other county roads in the area.
There are numerous quality viewing opportunities from the roads that pass through the area. Binoculars or a spotting scope will help as many animals are best viewed from a distance.
Dogs are not permitted within the Wildlife Area, on or off leash except on hunt days during authorized hunting seasons. Dog training is allowed in the Glass Hill Unit (west of Foothill Road) from August 1 until the opening of the upland game bird season. For more information on access rules for the Ladd Marsh Wildlife Area, please consult the 2008-2009 Oregon Game Bird Regulations.
Directions to Ladd Marsh Wildlife Area
Umatilla County
Riparian areas, from low to high, will have a good number of species of passerines including Bullock's orioles, yellow warblers, western tanagers, and numerous finches and wrens for people to observe or photograph. Lusher areas of the Umatilla National Forest offer opportunities to view species such as olive-sided flycatchers and red-naped sapsuckers.
Early summer is an opportune time to get out and observe and photograph a variety of wildlife species. Deer and elk are active through out the day. Newborn deer fawns and elk calves can often be seen during the month of June and early July.
Flocks of ducks and geese can be seen along the Columbia River and large reservoirs in the County as they feed up for the northern migration.
Elk will still be common along the upper open areas of the west slope of the Blue Mountains. Deer will be seen in herds from the valley floor to the upper Blue Mountains. The riverine and agricultural areas near the base of the mountains will be dominated by white-tailed deer. The desert and mountain areas will be inhabited primarily by mule deer. Elk can be viewed throughout the day while deer will be most visible in the first and last two hours of the day.
As spring comes into full bloom, neotropical migrants will begin to appear. Gulls and raptors including bald eagles can be seen along the Columbia River. Visit local wildlife areas to see shore and marsh birds in addition to perching birds and raptors.
Wood ducks can be seen traveling in flocks up and down the river systems with cottonwood trees along the banks.
Wallowa County
While driving along the county roads in the valley, watch for raptors hunting in hay fields. If you are interested in viewing elk during the rut, take a drive to the Zumwalt Prairie Preserve. You'll have to watch from the county roads, so bring your binoculars and spotting scopes.
SNAKE RIVER ZONE
FISHING
BROWNLEE RESERVOIR: crappie, bass, catfish, bluegill, trout, perch
Crappie fishing has been very good all summer and continue to bite well. Most fish are 6-9 inches but larger crappie can be found adjacent to cliff edges. White jigs with crappie nibbles have been working well. Large catfish are being caught in the Powder River Arm with worms and cut-bait. Bass and perch are on the bottom in 30-40 feet of water. Bass are biting on plastic grubs and gitzits. Perch are in schools but angling is good once you find them. Water level is 35 feet below full. Call Idaho Power Company's recording at 1-800-422-3143 to get information on access at recreational sites or visit their Web site under the "Rivers and Recreation" heading.
Reservoir level information
OXBOW RESERVOIR: trout, crappie, bass, catfish
Catfish and trout angling is good. Crappie fishing has been good all summer. Perch are in schools, so fishing is spotty. Bass fishing has been very good also. Cooler temperatures should be better for trout angling.
HELLS CANYON RESERVOIR: trout, crappie, bass, catfish
Good angling for crappie, bass, and catfish. Crappie are generally in back eddies and along steep banks. Trout angling has picked up.
SNAKE RIVER below HELLS CANYON RESERVOIR: trout, smallmouth bass
Trout and smallmouth bass fishing have been very good below the dam. Some 16 inch bass are being caught. Steelhead fishing opened Sept. 1 for adipose clipped fish, and a few are being caught. Get updated information on flow levels.
SNAKE RIVER (Above Brownlee Reservoir): channel catfish, flathead catfish, smallmouth bass
Flows near Nyssa ranged from approximately 7,800 to 9,200 cfs from Oct. 15 through Oct. 20. Flows near Weiser ranged from approximately 10,200 to 12,000 cfs to 12,500 cfs from Oct. 15 through Oct. 20. Angling is fair for 18 to 28 inch catfish. Smallmouth bass angling is fair.
COLUMBIA ZONE
FISHING
Weekend Fishing Opportunities
* There are still a few schools of coho passing through the lower Columbia River that are headed for local tributaries.
* Steelhead angling should begin to improve in the Columbia River above the John Day Dam.
* Legal size sturgeon are scattered throughout the lower Columbia River with the majority of keepers being caught in the Gorge.
Effective Saturday Sept. 20, 2008 through Dec. 31, 2008 or until further notice chinook retention is allowed from the boundary marker on the lower end of Bachelor Island to the Warrior Rock Lighthouse upstream to Bonneville Dam.
The daily bag limit on fall chinook salmon in the Columbia River below Bonneville dam increases to two fish, effective Thursday, Sept. 25 through the remainder of the year. The bag limit was increased following reports that showed continued improvement in projected fall chinook population estimates. This action follows the recent decision to reopen the fall chinook season below Bonneville dam and let it run until the end of the year, subject to ongoing review of run sizes.
The extended season and increased bag limit apply to the Columbia River from the Warrior Rock-Bachelor Island line above the mouth of the Lewis River upstream to Bonneville dam. As a result of these actions, anglers may keep up to two chinook, coho and steelhead per day in combination. Retained chinook do not have to be fin-clipped. However, any coho or steelhead must be adipose fin-clipped in order to be retained, as prescribed under permanent fishing regulations.
Adipose-clipped coho and steelhead may also be kept in the Columbia River below its confluence with the Lewis River.
Buoy 10 to Tongue Point remains closed to all salmon and steelhead angling.
Columbia River Fish Counts:
https://www.nwp.usace.army.mil/op/fishdata/home.asp
Regulations:
http://www.dfw.state.or.us/resources/fishing/reg_changes/columbia.asp
SALMON, STEELHEAD AND SHAD:
Salmonid anglers are catching a few coho that continue to mill around the mouths of the lower Columbia River tributaries. Boat anglers had the best luck in Troutdale where anglers averaged 0.70 coho caught per boat.
Gorge Bank:
Weekend checking showed one fall chinook kept and one unclipped coho released for 19 bank anglers.
Gorge Boats:
No report.
Troutdale Boats:
Weekly checking showed two fall chinook jacks and 14 adipose fin-clipped coho kept, plus two unclipped coho released for 23 boats (complete trips).
Portland to Longview Boats:
Weekend checking showed no catch for 12 boats (incomplete trips).
Portland to Rainier Bank:
No report.
Estuary Boat (Above Tongue Point):
No report.
John Day Pool (Columbia River above John Day Dam and John Day Arm):
Weekly checking showed one unclipped steelhead released for 11 bank anglers; and five adipose fin-clipped steelhead kept and three unclipped steelhead released for 52 bank anglers.
STURGEON:
Sturgeon angling remained fair this past weekend on the lower Columbia River where boat anglers averaged 0.28 legal white sturgeon caught per boat in the gorge, and 0.22 legal white sturgeon caught per boat in the Portland to Longview area.
Gorge Bank:
Weekend checking showed 14 legal white sturgeon kept, plus one oversize and 21 sublegal sturgeon released for 144 bank anglers.
Gorge Boats:
Weekend checking showed 12 legal white sturgeon kept, plus eight oversize and 278 sublegal sturgeon released for 43 boats (complete trips).
Troutdale Bank:
No report.
Troutdale Boats:
No report.
St. Helens Bank:
Weekly checking showed five sublegal sturgeon released for five bank anglers.
Portland to Longview Boats:
Weekend checking showed 10 legal white sturgeon kept and 73 sublegal sturgeon released for 45 boats (incomplete trips).
WALLEYE:
Gorge boats:
No report.
Troutdale boats:
Weekend checking showed no catch for one boat (complete trip).
Portland to Longview Boats:
No report.
MARINE ZONE
MARINE FISHING
The Tillamook ocean terminal area is open through Nov. 15 for chinook salmon. Anglers have been landing an average 0.4 fish each. All other salmon in the ocean is closed. For more information please visit: http://www.dfw.state.or.us/mrp/salmon/index.asp.
October brings additional fishing opportunities. Bottom fishers may now fish for rockfish, lingcod and other species at all depths and are not restricted by the summer conservation closure outside of the 40-fathom line.
Some rockfish and lingcod anglers are landing a daily limit of six fish and two fish, respectively. On average, rockfish anglers brought in two fish and lingcod anglers brought in a half fish. Boat anglers may not retain cabezon until Jan. 1.
Halibut fishing outside of the 40-fathom line is closed for the rest of the year. The nearshore halibut season (inside the 40nfathom line) for the central coast is open through Oct. 31. The daily bag limit for the nearshore fishery remains at one halibut. It is open seven days a week.
A list of fish included in the six-fish marine bag limit and waypoints for the 40-fathom line can be found in the 2008 Oregon Sport Ocean Regulations for Salmon, Halibut and Other Marine Fish Species and online at http://www.dfw.state.or.us/mrp
Remember: yelloweye rockfish and canary rockfish may not be retained. The Stonewall Bank Yelloweye Rockfish Conservation Area approximately 15 miles west of Newport is closed to the harvest of rockfish, lingcod, flatfish and others.
SHELLFISH
The entire Oregon coast is closed to the recreational harvest of mussels due to elevated levels of paralytic shellfish poisoning or PSP toxins. The closure includes mussels on the beaches, rocks, jetties, and at the entrance to bays. In addition, only the adductor muscle of scallops are safe to eat; consumption of whole scallops from the recreational fishery is not recommended.
The recreational harvest of clams is open coastwide. Harvesters should check for current closures on the ODA shellfish safety page or call the shellfish hotline, 503-986-4728 or 1-800-448-2474. Waters can be closed on short notice because of contaminated waters due to coastal flooding and because of elevated levels of naturally occurring toxins.
Shellfish biologists worry that diggers on Clatsop beaches may be disappointed in the size of what they find when they return to the most productive razor clam beaches in the state. The clams are small because of a late set, probably as a result of the massive storm systems last winter. During ODFW's summer clam surveys the average size was less than 3 inches. While clams are small there are a lot of them and they are just as good to eat as larger clams. Some diggers consider the smaller clams less desirable because there is not as much meat and the shells are more fragile than a larger razor clam making the smaller clams more difficult to clean.
Shellfish regulations require diggers to keep the first 15 razor clams dug, regardless of size or condition. Reburying a razor clam, even if its shell is unbroken, usually results in the clam's death.
Check out the recreational clam pages on the ODFW Web site: http://www.dfw.state.or.us/mrp/ then click on the shellfish icon. The pages contain everything you need to know for identifying and harvesting Oregon's clams.
CRABS
Recreational crabbing is still open in the bays and estuaries. Sport catches are between two and five crabs per angler, depending on the bay. Recreational Bay Crab Survey data on catch statistics are updated about every two weeks on the ODFW Web site at the recently-launched "Crabbing Reports" page (http://www.dfw.state.or.us/MRP/shellfish/crab/reports.asp) This provides prospective crabbers some information on the recent success of other crabbers in the five bays that are sampled: Tillamook Bay, Netarts Bay, Yaquina Bay, Alsea Bay and Coos Bay.
Catching Dungeness crab in the ocean is closed until Dec. 1.
Some sport crabbers have difficulty correctly measuring the minimum size for Dungeness crab, which is 5 3/4 inches measured in a straight line across the back immediately in front of, but not including, the points. For a photograph and diagram see page 101 of the Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations booklet.
MARINE ZONE VIEWING
Free Color Brochure: Seabirds of the Pacific Northwest
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service offers a free, beautifully illustrated brochure, Seabirds of the Pacific Northwest, to help you learn more about these fascinating migratory birds. The brochure is available online as a pdf, at Chamber of Commerce Visitor Centers along the coast or by calling the USFWS at (541) 867-4550.
E-mail Dawn Grafe, USFWS, for more information or to get multiple copies of the brochure, dawn_grafe@fws.gov