The Oregon Recreation Report (fishing, hunting, viewing), updated Tuesday, May 20, by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife:

Big game raffles, auctions gross nearly $560,000

SALEM, Ore, - The 2008 auctions and raffles for big game hunting tags grossed $559,776, of which $335,992 will go to the Access and Habitat program and $189,384 to big game research and management.

The auction of 11 big game auctions grossed $344,000, including $87,500 for a bighorn sheep tag and $10,000 for a pronghorn antelope tag. A total of 67,427 raffle tickets were sold grossing $215,776, including $68,353 in bighorn sheep tag raffle sales. Raffle winners were drawn at the May 17 Oregon Hunters Association convention in Lincoln City.

The sportsman/conservation groups that sponsored the auctions at various meetings and conventions of their organizations in the past few months keep 10 percent of the auction proceeds. Those groups include the Safari Club International, Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, National Wild Turkey Federation, Oregon Bow Hunters Association, Oregon Foundation for North American Wild Sheep, National Wild Sheep Foundation, and Oregon Hunters Association.

Of the combined auction and raffle monies raised for ODFW, $335,992 will go to the Access and Habitat program to fund wildlife habitat and hunter access improvement projects in the state. Proceeds from the pronghorn antelope, bighorn sheep and Rocky Mountain goat raffles and auctions fund the research and management of those species in Oregon, or $24,415 for pronghorn antelope, $147,103 for bighorn sheep and $17,866 for Rocky Mountain goat.

Winners of the special tags enjoy an extended season and expanded hunt area. A list of the auction proceeds and raffle winners follows.

2008 auction sales, 10 percent of which goes to sponsoring organization

Statewide Deer - $32,000 (Safari Club International - Santiam River Chapter, Feb. 2)

Statewide Elk - $30,000 (Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation - Curry Coastal Chapter, Feb. 2)

Bighorn Sheep - $87,500 (National Wild Sheep Foundation, Feb. 6-9)

Statewide Combination Deer and Elk (two tags) - $40,000 (Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation - National, Feb. 22)

Statewide Elk - $15,500 (Oregon Hunters Association - Emerald Valley Chapter, March 1)

Statewide Deer - $34,000 (National Wild Turkey Federation - Rogue Gobblers, March 15)

Statewide Deer - $24,000 (Oregon Bow Hunters Association, March 29)

Statewide Elk - $26,000 (Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation - Cascade Chapter, April 5)

Pronghorn Antelope - $10,000 (Oregon Foundation for North American Wild Sheep, April 19)

Statewide Elk - $23,000 (Oregon Hunters Association - Tillamook Chapter, May 3)

Statewide Deer - $22,000 (Oregon Hunters Association - State Chapter, May 17)

2008 raffle sales

Statewide combination deer and elk raffle: $41,931

Deer raffle: $29,531.50

Elk raffle: $42,679.50

Rocky Mountain goat raffle: $17,866

Pronghorn antelope raffle: $15,415

Bighorn sheep raffle: $68,353

2008 raffle winners

Statewide Combination Deer and Elk - Alfredo Julian, Vancouver, Wash.

Statewide Deer - Jamie Jackson, Klamath Falls

Southeast Oregon Deer - Larry Manning, Sublimity

Central Oregon Deer - Kenneth Kruse, Fort Rock

Northeast Oregon Deer - David Hale, Cloverdale

Statewide Elk - Reed Ringer, Gold Beach

Northeast Oregon Elk - Patrick Henderson, Beaver Creek

Central/Southeast Oregon Elk - Robert Whitson, Bend

Western Oregon Elk - Joe Rutledge, Gaston

Rocky Mountain Goat - Gerald Warnock, Portland

Pronghorn - Samuel Inkley, Central Point

Bighorn Sheep - Winner: Alfredo Julian, Vancouver, Wash.

Vacation in Oregon this spring

Wildlife viewing doesn't get any better than at Summer Lake Wildlife Area. Visit the Southeast Zone Viewing Report to get an idea of what's in store for visitors. Travel Oregon helps you with a driving itinerary through Oregon's unique high desert and suggest places to stay, visit their Web site. Nearby: Fort Rock State Natural Area, about 35 miles north, offers picnicking, wildlife viewing, rock formations and a hiking trail.

Many Rivers and Streams Open to Fishing May 24

In order to protect out-migrating salmon and steelhead smolts, many rivers and streams throughout the state open for fishing after the traditional start of trout season in April. The current sport fishing regulations will list the correct opening date for rivers and streams statewide

12th Annual Sturgeon Festival May 31 and June 1

Free two-day evetn from noon to 4 p.m. each day at the Water Resources Education Center, 4600 SE Columbia Way in Vancouver, WA. Special events include Portland Audubon Society's Birds of Prey, Wild on Wildlife Live Bird and Mammal Show, Creature Feature Reptile Zoo and and Eartha the Clown.

Turkey and bear hunting continues through May 31

Warmer weather and spring green-up continues to improve hunting access but plan carefully if you are heading into high elevations as traditional routes may still be unusable. Remember check-in is now mandatory for successful bear hunters.

WILLAMETTE ZONE

FISHING

Some Weekend Fishing Opportunities

* Shad fishing on the mainstem of the Columbia River below Bonneville Dam opened May 16.

* Detroit and Green Peter Reservoirs are producing some good catches of 9-12 inch chinook, with some bigger fish being taken.

High Water Warning on Sauvie Island

Little McNary Pond has flooded the road making access to the Gilbert River boat ramp questionable. In addition, a log jam at the boat ramp makes it unusable. The gate to the Big Eddy boat ramp also has been closed due to high water, but anglers can walk to the pier. Finally, the gate at end of Rentenaar Road has been closed due to high water. High water is projected for the next week. Call the Sauvie Island Wildlife Area for updates (503) 621-3488.

ODFW invites public comment on proposed fishing rules

ODFW is inviting members of the fishing public to comment on proposed changes to the 2009 sport fishing regulations at three public meetings held in Eugene/Springfield, Salem and Portland in May. All meetings are from 7-10 p.m.

EUGENE/SPRINGFIELD: Wednesday, May 21 at Lane Community College, Forum Building (#17), Room 308, 4000 E. 30th Ave.

SALEM: Tuesday, May 27 at ODFW Headquarters, 3406 Cherry Ave. N.E.

PORTLAND METRO: Wednesday, May 28 at Sunnybrook Service Center, 9109 S.E. Sunnybrook Center, Clackamas.

The comments received at these meetings will be presented to the Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission when it considers changes to the angling regulations at its August meeting in Salem. The Commission will make its final decision on the 2009 sport fishing rules in September.

A list of all proposed changes, as well as a description of the review process and additional opportunities for public input can be found at http://www.dfw.state.or.us/resources/fishing/docs/2009_Public_Process_Packet.pdf

STOCKING SCHEDULE

Carmen Reservoir will be stocked with 3,000 rainbow trout this week, including 500 larger fish.

Clear Lake will be stocked with 3,750 rainbow trout, including 1,250 larger fish.

Fall Creek above Fall Creek Reservoir will be stocked with 2,000 legal-size rainbow trout.

Leaburg Lake will be stocked with 1,350 rainbow trout, including 150 larger trout.

Due to high water, the McKenzie River above Leaburg will NOT be boat-stocked as scheduled this week.

Salmon Creek will be stocked with 2,000 legal-sized rainbow trout this week.

Smith Reservoir will be stocked with 5,000 legal-sized rainbow trout.

The Coast Fork Willamette River with be stocked with 1,400 legal-sized rainbow trout.

The Middle Fork Willamette River above Hills Creek Reservoir will be stocked with 1,350 legal-sized rainbow trout.

Many other Willamette Zone lakes and ponds will be stocked over the next couple of weeks, but it may be several weeks before mountain lakes such as Harriet, Timothy, and Trillium are stocked due to low elevation snow. It is simply too dangerous for fish liberation trucks to be driving on snow covered roads not to mention extremely difficult conditions at boat ramps where fish are often stocked. Other mid-elevation lakes such as North Fork Reservoir and Faraday Lake will be stocked in the middle of May once water temperatures begin to warm in the Clackamas River. Contact the US Forest Service office in Estacada for information on roads in the National Forest or contact the main office in Clackamas to see if your particular water was stocked during the scheduled week.

See South Willamette and North Willamette stocking schedules.

CANBY POND: rainbow trout

The North Willamette District will begin stocking Canby Pond once again after two years of being off the stocking schedule. Over 400 rainbow trout will be stocked in advance of a youth fishing event being held at the pond this Saturday. The pond will be stocked with another load of approximately 400 fish within the next two weeks. We hope to continue stocking the pond through the end of spring before vegetation growth prevents successful angling.

CLACKAMAS RIVER: steelhead, spring chinook

River conditions 5/20 n The river is currently running high, fast and off-color. If temperatures remain cool the river could clear in three or four days. However, if warm weather returns and snow levels drop, conditions will remain less than optimal.

Last update 5/13. We continue to sing the same old tune on the Clackamas as water temperatures once again quickly cooled after a short warm up last week. Many anglers are reporting fair to good success for summer steelhead all the way up to McIver Park. There are even a few good conditioned winter steelhead remaining in the lower river to add to the opportunities. There are several recent reports of spring chinook being caught but angler pressure is unexpectedly light with the Willamette closed. Many anglers may be waiting for the water to warm up into the 50s before giving the Clackamas a whirl.

Be aware that the forecasted high temperatures later this week are expected to push river levels up and out of shape for likely the coming week. This should raise water temperature significantly and get fish to really start moving into tributary systems like the Clackamas and Sandy.

Clackamas Hatchery will continue to release hatchery winter steelhead into the river over the next few weeks so keep that in mind when trying to fish with bait. Switch to artificial lures if possible to reduce unintentional catch and mortality of hatchery smolts.

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

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

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

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

Detroit, Green Peter, and Foster reservoirs are nearly full and all boat ramps are useable. All have been stocked numerous times with rainbow trout and are producing good catches. Fish are near the surface because the water temperatures are still so cool. Detroit and Green Peter are also producing some good catches of 9-12 inch chinook, with some bigger ones being taken. Kokanee catch seems to be down some this season so far. Both Foster and Detroit are scheduled to be stocked with trout again this week.

EAGLE CREEK: steelhead

Water temperature remains in the low 40s but is anticipated to gradually warm with the gradual increase in air temperature. Fishing pressure remains very low. Eagle Creek National Fish Hatchery processed 968 winter steelhead this year and the ladder was closed on March 27. Winter steelhead smolts will be released this week, so keep that in mind when trying to fish with bait. Switch to artificial lures if possible to reduce unintentional catch and mortality of hatchery smolts.

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): rainbow trout

Stocked the week of March 17.

EE WILSON and Junction City Pond: rainbow trout

Will be stocked this week with legal, large and trophy trout.

GOLD LAKE: brook trout, rainbow trout

Gold Lake opens to angling May 24. The access road is currently closed to vehicle traffic due to snow, but is open to other forms of transportation. Fly angling only with barbless hooks. Catch and release for rainbow trout. There is no limit on size or number of brook trout taken.

LOOKOUT POINT RESERVOIR: trout, spring chinook

Anglers report good fishing opportunities for trout and spring chinook salmon recently in Lookout Point Reservoir. Both boat and bank anglers have been successful catching their limits. Chinook under 24 inches are included in the trout bag limit.

MOLALLA RIVER: steelhead

Last update April 22. Anglers continued to catch fresh winter steelhead and even a few winter steelhead kelts on the Molalla in recent weeks. Counts of winter steelhead over Willamette Falls picked up early last week with over 200 being counted on Monday alone. Many of these fish will move into the Molalla and provide another shot of fresh fish to the system over the next couple of weeks. As water temperature increases in the Willamette several hundred more late winter steelhead and spring potentially destined for the Molalla will begin moving over the falls. Keep an eye on falls counts over the next couple of weeks for an indication of spring moving into the Molalla. Spring will not show up in the Molalla until May. We no longer stock the Molalla with winter or summer steelhead but wild winter steelhead are providing a small, but popular catch and release fishery. Give it a try from the Pine Creek Bridge down to Canby this time of year for both winter steelhead and fresh spring .

NORTH AND SOUTH SANTIAM: steelhead

The North Santiam has been very high for the last several days and is forecast to remain that way for a while. The South Santiam is fishable, but still a little high. However, since Green Peter and Foster reservoirs are almost full, flow in the South Santiam may increase substantially by later this week. Steelhead numbers are increasing in the rivers and chinook are beginning to show up in the lower Santiam. Numbers of chinook are even lower than expected at this point in the season, but should pick up as the river warms.

Stream flows in the Breitenbush and North Santiam rivers above Detroit Reservoir, and in Quartzville Creek above Green Peter Reservoir are quite high as the substantial snowpack is now coming off quickly. All streams are scheduled to be stocked for the Memorial Day weekend. Please use extra caution due to the high flows.

SANDY RIVER: steelhead, spring chinook

River conditions 5/20 n The river is currently running high, fast and off-color. If temperatures remain cool the river could clear in three or four days. However, if warm weather returns and snow levels drop, conditions will remain less than optimal

Last Update 5/13. Angling effort and catch has been slow for most of the past week with the exception of several good reports coming from anglers fishing the Dodge to Oxbow section of the river. Spring chinook are apparently spread throughout the lower river below Cedar Creek, but numbers are limited and the cold temperatures are keeping fish off the bite. The river is expected to go out of shape later this week along with other local snow-fed systems so go out before it happens or plan to wait until at least mid-next week before the glacial Sandy comes back into shape.

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

WALTER WIRTH LAKE/WALLING POND: Rainbow trout

Most of the valley pond stocking with trout is done for this season. Warmer water temperatures make them less suitable for trout and better for warm water fish. Bass crappie, bluegill, and catfish are available in most of the valley floor ponds and are becoming more active as the water warms up.

WILLAMETTE RIVER: sturgeon, steelhead, spring chinook

Closed to retention of spring chinook below Willamette Falls, but fishing for summer steelhead has been fair for those who continue to give it a try. It appears many anglers are choosing to hang up the rods for a while as pressure is very light on the Willamette and the Clackamas. Water temperatures cooled again over the weekend so passage of spring chinook over the falls slowed accordingly. As of Monday, only 2,720 spring chinook had passed the falls when pre-season predictions expected over 37,000. In a typical year, over 50% of the spring chinook run would have passed the falls by now so we are far behind pre-season expectations which led to the early closure. Sturgeon angling continues to be fair throughout the middle section of the lower Willamette (Willamette Park to Cedar Oak).

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

Above Willamette Falls and tributaries, the river remains open for retention of spring chinook, steelhead and shad. Previously adopted seasons and bag limits remain in effect:

* The daily bag limit for the Willamette River downstream of Willamette Falls will be two adult adipose fin-clipped steelhead.

* The daily bag limit for the Willamette River and tributaries above Willamette Falls will remain two adult adipose fin-clipped salmon and steelhead of which only one may be a chinook, except that an additional adipose fin-clipped steelhead may be retained.

* The daily bag limit for salmon and steelhead in the Clackamas River upstream to North Fork Dam will remain two adult adipose fin-clipped salmon and steelhead of which only one may be a chinook.

The Oregon/Washington Compact adopted the following rules at the Dec. 13 Joint State Hearing for the sturgeon sport fishery above Wauna power lines (RM 40) upstream to Bonneville Dam, including all adjacent Washington tributaries, and the lower Willamette River (including the Multnomah Channel) upstream to Willamette Falls for 2008:

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

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

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

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

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

As water temperatures reach the high 50s and warmer, South Willamette Watershed District ponds and reservoirs will begin to provide good warmwater fishing opportunities. Local area ponds to consider include Garden Lake (Creswell), Cottage Grove Ponds (Cottage Grove), and Delta Ponds (Eugene). Area reservoirs including Cottage Grove, Dorena and Fall Creek will also provide warmwater opportunities at these temperatures.

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

WILLAMETTE ZONE HUNTING

OPEN: Cougar, controlled spring bear (closes May 31), turkey (closes May 31)

Visit ODFW's turkey, spring bear hunting forecasts.

Cougar n As the snow pack melts, cougar will be much harder to locate and hunters will need to rely more on calls to bring a cougar into the open. Continue to use predator calls that mimic the bleat of a fawn or elk calf or the distress sounds of a rodent but also consider calls that can imitate the territorial sounds of a cougar. In the South Willamette Watershed cougars can be found throughout the area with the exception of the Willamette Valley Floor. Hunters looking for the best chance of success should scout along snow covered roads or near concentrations of deer and elk to locate fresh sign. Once fresh cougar sign is located hunters have a variety of hunting options to choose from. Tracking cougar through fresh snow is a challenging way to hunt, but hunters are reporting improved success with this technique. Using predator calls that mimic the bleat of a fawn or elk calf may lure a cougar into view and hunters should always be ready to try a variety of sounds if their standard call is not producing.

Bear (closes May 31)n Bear hunting has improved in the coast range over the past week and hunters are reporting bears scattered from the stringer valleys to the snow line. Hunters are advised to cover lots of ground or find high vantage points where they can glass large open areas in order to locate traveling bears. As always, finding food sources and fresh bear sign will improve a hunter's chances of filling their tag. In the spring, bears tend to forage on whatever is available. This includes green grass, skunk cabbage, and insects. Hunters should glass for foraging bears in clear cuts and along grassy old logging roads. Look for areas with abundant bear sign such as scat or torn up stumps. Hunters can also have some luck with predator calls.

Spring bear hunters in the North Cascades hunt (716A) are reminded that the Marion and Linn County portions of Santiam and McKenzie Units are open only on the Willamette National Forest. Private and BLM lands within these two counties are not included in the hunt boundary. Hunters should start looking at mid elevations such as the Detroit area and move higher as the snow melts. The warmer weather has bears on the move in the north Cascades which should be beneficial for hunters looking to tag a spring bear. While hunters will still encounter snow packed roads in the mid and upper elevations of the Cascade Mountains overall access is improving. Hunters are advised to locate food sources and fresh sign to help narrow down the areas to concentrate their efforts.

Hunters in the SW Oregon hunt (722A) may want to hunt the Coast Range early in the season and hunt the Cascades later in the season when more forage is available. Please remember that you must have permission to hunt on private property

Turkey (closes May 31) nMost turkeys in the Willamette are found on private property. Hunting can be good for those hunters that make the effort to meet private landowners and obtain permission to hunt. It can be difficult to find turkeys on public lands. Hunters wishing to look for turkeys on public land should concentrate on low elevation BLM parcels. Turkeys can occasionally be found on the Willamette National Forest at low elevations, such as the Middle Fork Willamette River.

FERN RIDGE WILDLIFE AREA

All units at Fern Ridge Wildlife Area are open daily for public use. Hunters won't find bear or turkey here however. Visitors are reminded that dogs must be kept on leash at all times. One section of levee in the western portion of the Fisher Butte unit is posted closed to provide wildlife sanctuary during nesting season. Contact the wildlife area hdq. at 541-935-2591 if you have any questions. Enjoy your visit!

EE WILSON WILDLIFE AREA

All hunting is now over for the year but fishing remains good thanks to regular trout stockings by ODFW. Remember that dogs are required to be leashed inside the wildlife area boundary.

WILLAMETTE ZONE VIEWING

EVENTS

Get to know Smith & Bybee wetlands! Saturday, May 31, 8:45 a.m. - 1 p.m.

A tour of the site will highlight local wetland history, land use change, development as well as current management and restoration strategies. We'll talk about wetland functions and values, plants and wildlife, as well as recreational and stewardship opportunities. Location: Smith & Bybee Wetlands Wildlife Area. Register with Katie, (503) 281-1132 or e-mail katie.meckes@columbiaslough.org

Peregrine Watch 2008, Portland, May 24-25, Portland, noon to 2 p.m.

Peregrine Watch is an amazing opportunity to watch the fastest animal in the world hunting and nesting right in the middle of downtown Portland. Audubon Society of Portland volunteers will be out along the Springwater Trail behind OMSI to show you a pair Peregrine Falcons which have made the Marquam Bridge their home. More details.

Natural Garden Seminar, May 24, West Linn, 10 a.m. to noon

Come gather ideas for flowers you can grow at home for year-round cutting. Learn presenters' top picks for gorgeous garden flowers; how to care for them organically; and how flowers can help you attract hummingbirds, butterflies and other native pollinators. Then, learn harvest tips to help you create fun floral displays right from your yard. For more info, visit the Metro Web site calendar.

Flickers: You may hear them before you see them!

The Northern flicker, a member of the woodpecker family, is a fairly common bird to see in the Willamette Valley. It has salmon-colored wing undersides and a white patch on its rump. Flickers can also be identified by their loud call and drumming action.

They are of great benefit to homeowners because of the large number of insect pests they consume. See photos and learn more, on the Cornell Lab of Ornithology All About Birds Web site.

Flickers typically excavate a new cavity each year in large decaying trees or snags. Females usually produce 5 to 10 eggs, and young nest in the cavity from late April through early August. These birds are protected by both state and federal law.

If a flicker is causing annoyance by drumming on sides of homes, here are some suggested deterrents: Attach Mylar balloons that spin and move in the wind, shiny CDs or streamers of Mylar tape every 2-3 feet along roof eaves near affected area. Leave snags and dead branches in your yard to provide natural habitat and prevent use of human structures by birds.

Corvallis Area

EE Wilson Wildlife Area

There are several broods of geese on the Wildlife Area now. Expect to see Mallard broods about this time. Wildlife viewing remains good for waterfowl and shorebirds. Neotropical migrants in the area include yellow-breasted chat, American goldfinch, various swallows, warblers, thrush, kinglet and common yellowthroat.

Spring and summer are great times for birdwatching migrants as well as waterfowl including mallards, wood duck, hooded merganser, ring-necked duck, western Canada goose. Snipe and other shorebirds are periodically seen. You can now use the photography blind on the Wildlife Area. Staff will feed daily so there will be good photo opportunities. Call the office to make a reservation and get directions to blinds, (541) 745-5334.

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

Find directions to EE Wilson Wildlife Area.

Eugene Area

Delta Ponds

Delta Ponds offers a great opportunity for wildlife viewing near the heart of Eugene. This time of year viewers can observe native western pond turtles as they soak up the sun basking on logs. The best time to observe turtles is mid-mornings on sunny days. The turtles will retreat back into the water if the temperature is too hot. Please try to observe the turtles from a distance to avoid disturbing them. Unfortunately, viewers will likely see Red-eared Sliders in addition to the Western Pond Turtles. The sliders are a non-native invasive species that compete with our native turtles for habitat and food.

Numerous bird species utilize the area and provide viewing opportunities including a variety of warblers, western tanagers, Bullock's orioles, green herons, great blue herons, osprey, and others.

Waterfowl are hatching and viewers can observe broods of ducks and geese. These can be a joy to watch but please resist the temptation to feed since unnatural food sources can cause serious health problems for the young birds.

Delta Ponds is a unique natural area owned by the City of Eugene that borders a stretch of the Willamette River, just downstream from Valley River Center. For many, it is a favorite spot for birdwatching, fishing, and hiking. Location: Goodpasture Island Rd. to Valley River Ctr. For more information, visit the City of Eugene Parks Web site.

Salem Area

Silver Falls State Park

Hike the Trail of Ten Falls through a temperate rain forest. It descend to a forest floor covered with ferns, mosses and wildflowers. You will also find stands of Douglas fir, hemlock, and cedar. Birdwatching is great.

Download a bird list from the park Web site.

It's wildlife breeding season so keep dogs on a leash-it's required. For information, visit the state parks Web site.

Sauvie Island

Sauvie Island Wildlife Area

May 20: This is probably not a great week to visit the island-high water from snowmelt and rain has closed several roads and access to the Gilbert River boat ramp and ponds.

Bald eagles and red-tailed hawks are very active caring for their new arrivals. There are 10 active eagle nests on the Wildlife Area.

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.

Find directions to Sauvie Island Wildlife Area on the ODFW Web site.

Springfield Area

Fern Ridge Wildlife Area

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

Look for waterfowl, shore birds, wading birds, songbirds, raptors, reptiles and amphibians. The Pacific tree frog chorus is raucous on warm spring nights.

Photo blinds: Eight hunting blinds located in the East and West Coyote units (located south of Hwy 126) are available for anyone to use for wildlife viewing throughout the summer and provide great photo opportunities. There is an elevated viewing platform in the Fisher Butte unit just south of Royal Avenue that is open year-round.

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

Visitors are reminded that dogs must be kept on leash at all times. Parking areas are located along Highway 126, Nielson Road and Cantrell Road. Contact the Wildlife Area headquarters, (541) 935-2591, if you have any questions.

Directions to Fern Ridge Wildlife Area

Valley wide

Osprey can be seen throughout the Willamette Valley, nesting on the very top of dead/dying trees, cell phone towers, power poles, river pilings, and even on abandoned human structures such as cranes. Enjoy watching the osprey, but be careful not to disturb them during their critical nesting time (March n August).

NORTHWEST ZONE

FISHING

Some Weekend Fishing Opportunities

* Summer steelhead are beginning to arrive in area rivers such as the Nestucca, Siletz and Wilson

* North Coast streams open for trout angling on Saturday, May 24. Angling should be fair to good. Anglers are reminded that streams north of Salmon River are catch and release only.

ODFW to Hold Youth Angling Event at Vernonia Pond

The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife will host a free youth fishing event at Vernonia Pond in Vernonia on Saturday, May 24 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m..

The department will provide rods, reels, tackle, bait and fish bags for use by young anglers who do not have their own fishing equipment.

In addition, ODFW staff and volunteers from the Association of Northwest Steelheaders will be on hand to help participants learn how to bait a hook, cast a rod and land the catch.

ODFW will stock 1,000 legal-sized rainbow trout for the event. There also will be a casting contest with prizes, and a rod-and-reel combo will be awarded to the young angler catching the most fish (determined by total weight). For more information call Tracy Crews at (503) 842-2741.

ODFW invites public comment on proposed fishing rules

ODFW is inviting members of the fishing public to comment on proposed changes to the 2009 sport fishing regulations at two public meetings held in Newport and Tillamook in May.

NEWPORT: Thursday, May 22 at Hatfield Marine Science Center, 2030 S.E. Marine Science Dr. 7-10 p.m.

TILLAMOOK: Friday, May 23 at Oregon Department of Forestry, 5005 Third St. 7-10 p.m.

The comments received at these meetings will be presented to the Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission when it considers changes to the angling regulations at its August meeting in Salem. The Commission will make its final decision on the 2009 sport fishing rules in September.

A list of all proposed changes, as well as a description of the review process and additional opportunities for public input can be found at http://www.dfw.state.or.us/resources/fishing/docs/2009_Public_Process_Packet.pdf

NORTH COAST LAKES

Coffenbury (1,000), Lost (1,000), Town (500), Hebo (1,000), and Cape Meares(1,000) lakes were stocked the week of May 12. South Lake (500) was not stocked. These fish will be stocked in North Lake, if accessible, the week of May 19. If North Lake is still not accessible, the fish will be stocked in South Lake.

Bay City Reservoir will not be stocked this year. The reservoir was still inaccessible last week, so fish were stocked in Lorens Pond instead.

Lorens Pond and Cape Meares lake were also stocked with surplus rainbow trout made available from Leaburg Hatchery. These fish were a little larger than the standard legal size trout (about 1.5 fish per pound). Approximately 200 fish were stocked in Lorens Pond and 300 in Cape Meares Lake.

Coffenbury, Cape Meares, Hebo and Town lakes are scheduled to be stocked the week of June 2 just prior to Free Fishing Weekend (June 7-8). Surplus rainbow trout from Salmon River Hatchery will be stocked for special events planned for Free Fishing Weekend at Coffenbury and Hebo lakes, Nedonna Pond, and Trask Hatchery. These will be about 1.5 fish per pound, larger than the usual legal size trout of 2.75-3 fish per pound.

MID COAST LAKES

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

Carter Lake, 5-5-08, 2500 trout at 3.0 per pound.

Cleawox Lake, 5-5-08, 2000 trout at 3.0 per pound.

Munsel Lake, 5-8-08, 1500 trout at 1.5 per pound.

Sutton Lake, 5-9-08, 1000 trout at 1.5 per pound.

Eckman Lake, 5-12-08, 1000 trout at 3.0 per pound.

Big Creek Reservoir 1, 5-19-08, 1500 trout at 3.0 per pound.

Big Creek Reservoir 2, 5-19-08, 1800 trout at 3.0 per pound.

Olalla Reservoir, 5-21-08, 2500 trout at 3.0 per pound.

Thissel Pond, 5-22-08, 1000 trout at 3.0 per pound.

Big Creek Reservoir 1, 5-26-08, 1500 trout at 1.5 per pound.

Big Creek Reservoir 2, 5-26-08, 2750 trout at 1.5 per pound.

Alder Lake, 5-27-08, 425 trout at 1.5 per pound.

Buck Lake, 5-27-08, 425 trout at 1.5 per pound.

Dune Lake, 5-27-08, 425 trout at 1.5 per pound.

Georgia and North Georgia Lakes, 5-27-08, 75 trout at 1.5 per pound.

Cleawox Lake, 5-28-08, 1800 trout at 1.5 per pound.

Perkins Lake, 5-28-08, 200 trout 1.5 per pound.

Thissel Pond, 5-29-08, 1,000 trout at 3.0 per pound.

ALSEA RIVER: winter steelhead

Angling above tidewater is closed starting May 1 and will reopen with the cutthroat trout opener on May 24. Steelhead and angling will reopen August 1.

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

NESTUCCA RIVER AND THREE RIVERS: steelhead, chinook, cutthroat trout

Angling for summer steelhead is improving as more fish arrive in the system. Spring chinook angling is still slow. Angling should begin to pick up over the next few weeks, although a low run is expected. Catch and release angling for cutthroat should be fair to good when the season opens May 24.

SALMON RIVER:

Closed to angling above tidewater. Angling will reopen on May 24.

SILETZ RIVER: summer steelhead

Steelhead fishing is fair as summer steelhead continue to trickling in. Good numbers typically show by mid-June and peak through July. Wild winter steelhead are common this time of year as they are nearing the end of the spawning season. Anglers are advised to leave wild fish in the water while releasing.

SIUSLAW RIVER:

Angling is closed above tidewater and will reopen for the trout opener on May 24.

TILLAMOOK BAY: sturgeon, chinook

Angling for sturgeon has been slow to fair. Best angling will likely be in the upper bay or Tillamook River tidewater areas. Angling for spring chinook is slow. Only scattered reports of fish being caught are coming in.

TRASK RIVER: steelhead, chinook, cutthroat trout

Angling for spring chinook is slow, but should begin to improve in the coming weeks. A few summer steelhead should be available also. Catch and release angling for cutthroat should be fair to good when the season opens May 24. Johnson Bridge is being replaced. Demolition is scheduled for the coming weeks. Boaters should use extreme caution when approaching the bridge. Passage past the work site will be provided.

WILSON RIVER: steelhead, spring chinook, cutthroat trout

Angling for steelhead has been fair. More summer steelhead are entering the system. Spring chinook angling is slow, with very few fish available in the river at this time. Catch and release angling for cutthroat should be fair to good when the season opens May 24.

YAQUINA RIVER:

Angling above tidewater is closed. Angling will reopen on May 24.

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

NORTHWEST ZONE HUNTING

OPEN: Cougar, controlled spring bear (closes May 31), turkey (closes May 31)

Visit ODFW's turkey, spring bear hunting forecasts.

Bear n Controlled spring bear goes through May 31. Remember it is now mandatory to check in your bear. Bears are becoming more active as green-up is occurring and snow at mid elevations is gone. Hunters are having success scouting for bears that are working down and rotting logs and stumps for insects.

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

Turkey n Closes May 31. Turkey numbers are very low in this district and most are on private lands. See the turkey forecast for more information.

NORTHWEST ZONE (NORTH COAST) VIEWING

Songbirds

With spring in full gear many neo-tropical songbirds have arrived in forested areas of the north coast and are busy nesting. A walk through the forest will reveal many bird songs not heard, perhaps, for months. Even forested areas that have been thinned or clear-cut, especially those with remnant green trees, can provide excellent birding, different from heavily forested areas.

Killer and gray whales

About this time of year, pods of transient killer whales patrol the central Oregon coast, looking for baby gray whales as well as sea lions and seals to eat. They are rarely seen in these waters, but at this time of year, keen observers can count on spotting a few. They are more often seen in the Depoe Bay and Newport areas, but they can be spotted from Cascade Head to Florence.

Shorebirds

During May, thousands of shorebirds stop in coastal estuaries to rest and feed on their migration north to Arctic Breeding areas. Common murres, tufted puffins, pigeon guillemots and Brandt's, pelagic and double-crested cormorants can be seen nesting on many of the coastal rocks and islands.

Seaside Area

Jewell Meadows Wildlife Area

NEW: Migratory species that have returned to the wildlife area include band-tailed pigeons, violet-green swallows and wood ducks. Look for band-tailed pigeons near viewing areas. Swallows can be seen gliding over open fields and checking out nest boxes along fences near viewing areas. Wood ducks and mallards have been seen on the shallow pond areas, in fields with standing water and along creeks.

Viewing opportunities for elk have been good with animals visible most days. Best times are in the mornings and evenings. Look for bulls on the Fishhawk tract adjacent to Hwy 202. Please remember that areas posted as Wildlife Refuge are closed to public access.

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

SOUTHWEST ZONE

FISHING

Snow and difficult access slow trout stocking in upper Rogue River

Snow and other factors continue to block access to many recreation sites on the upper Rogue River above Lost Creek Reservoir. This will affect trout stocking in the next few weeks.

For the week of May 19, ODFW plans to stock accessible sites in the upper Rogue, these include:

Mill Creek Bridge at Prospect

Mill Creek Campground

River Bridge Campground

Woodruff Bridge Campground

Union Creek

ODFW will add additional scheduled release sites as conditions allow. The stocking schedule may change depending on snow melt at higher elevations.

Weekend Fishing Opportunties:

* In Lake Selmac largemouth bass and panfish are moving into the shallows, and fishing for them should be good.

* Shad should soon start appearing in larger numbers soon in the mainstem of the Umpqua. Some anglers have been catching shad in the lower sections.

AGATE RESERVOIR: largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie

Angling for bass, bluegill and crappie is improving with the warmer weather.

APPLEGATE RIVER: trout

The Appelgate River will re-open for adipose-fin clipped trout on May 24. As of May 19, visibility was poor and flows were at 2,063 cubic feet per second. The outflow temperature was 45 degrees F. Anglers are reminded that the Applegate River is closed to angling from a floating device.

APPLEGATE RESERVOIR: trout, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass

Applegate Reservoir has recently been stocked with legal-sized trout. Trophy-sized trout are also available. Angling for largemouth and smallmouth bass is improving as the fish move into the shallows. Both the Hartish and Copper Boat Ramps are open.

BEN IRVING RESERVOIR: rainbow trout

Ben Irving Reservoir, west of Winston, has been stocked with about 4,000 trout to date. Fishing should improve as the water temperatures rise.

BURMA POND: rainbow trout

Burma Pond has recently been stocked with legal-sized rainbow trout and angling for them should be good.

CHETCO RIVER: cutthroat trout

Trout fishing opens May 24.

COOPER CREEK RESERVOIR: rainbow trout

Cooper Creek has been stocked with about 7,000 catchable trout to date. The reservoir also recieves 50 or so 4 to 5 pound trophy trout each February. One lucky angler caught a 9 pound trout out of Cooper Creek that was probably left over from a year ago. Nearby Plat I reservoir has also been stocked with about 3,000 catchable trout.

COOS COUNTY LAKES: trout, bass

Legal-sized trout were stocked the week of May 5 in Bluebill Lake, Bradley Lake, Eel Lake, Powers Pond, Saunders Lake, and Sru Lake. PowerBait or a piece of worm are great baits to use for trout. Trout fishing in the Millicoma Pond at the Millicoma Interpretive Center is excellent. Millicoma Pond is set aside for kids fishing only and is a great chance for them to hook into fish.

Bass and other warmwater fish activity has picked up with last weeks warm weather. Try fishing a few of the lakes within the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area for warmwater fish.

COOS RIVER BASIN: trout, shad

Trout season is closed in streams and tidewater until May 24. With warmer temperatures perch angling should be picking up inside Coos Bay. Anglers should cast their bait around rocks or other structure. We have not heard any reports of shad being caught but they should start moving into Coos Bay very soon. Trolling spinners is a great way to hook into shad.

COQUILLE RIVER BASIN: trout

Steelhead season in the forks of the Coquille is closed. Trout season is closed in streams and tidewater until May 24.

DIAMOND LAKE: rainbow trout

There is still a lot of snow and ice in the area, but anglers will find some open water at the resort, and can snowmobile or cross country ski to inlets or outlets that might also have open water such as near the pizza parlor. There should be at least 50,000 11-inch trout in the lake from last year's fingerling stocking. As soon as the ice is off, the ODFW will also stock 70,000 n 80,000 more catchable fish. Anglers are cautioned not to walk on the ice. When the lake opens this year, the boat speed limit will be 10 mph all day. This is the same speed limit that it was in the past prior to the negative impact of the tui chub

DUTCH HERMAN POND: rainbow trout

Dutch Herman Pond has recently been stocked with legal-sized rainbow trout and angling for them should be good.

ELK/SIXES RIVER: cutthroat trout

Trout fishing opens May 24.

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

Emigrant Reservoir was recently stocked with legal-sized rainbow trout. Bass, crappie, bluegill and other warmwater fish are moving into the shallows, and angling for them is improving. Anglers should fish the flooded willows, the dam face and dike structures in Emigrant and Hill Creek arms.

Anglers should be aware that recent testing by the Department of Human Services has found elevated levels of mercury in smallmouth bass at Emigrant, and a health advisory has been issued recommending limits on consumption of all fish from Emigrant except rainbow trout. Information on the Emigrant Reservoir advisory, along with general information on mercury and fish can be found on the DHS website at www.healthoregon.org/fishadv.

EXPO POND: rainbow trout

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

FISH LAKE: rainbow trout

Fish Lake has recently been stocked with legal-sized and trophy-sized rainbow trout. The lake is now free of ice. Fishing has been good.

FLORAS LAKE: rainbow trout, bass

No report. Shore access is limited, but anglers can put a boat in at Boice Cope County Park. Anglers should keep an eye on the weather and target the lake when winds are light.

GALESVILLE RESERVIOR: rainbow trout, bass

Galesville Reservoir is open to angling year-round. Galesville has been stocked with about 6,500 catchable size trout to date. The 25,000 sub-legal size trout stocked last fall are approaching legal size. 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 about a month ago with about 55,000 adipose-clipped hatchery coho. These fish were about 6 to 7 inches long, so will take a month or so to grow to legal size. In Galesville Reservoir, all landlocked salmon are considered trout. Thus there will be a 5 per day trout limit, with only one trout over 20 inches in length allowed for harvest.

GARRISON LAKE: rainbow trout, bass

No report. This time of year trout are in the shallows and anglers will want to fish early morning or late evenings. Bank access is limited to the State Park or 12th street boat ramp. Anglers should keep an eye on the weather and target the lake when winds are light.

HERBERT'S POND: rainbow trout, warm water fish

Herbert's Pond is a small pond just east of Canyonville on Tiller Highway. The pond has a good warm water fishery for kids including bluegill, crappie, and bass. The pond was stocked with a couple hundred trout 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

Howard Prairie has been stocked with legal-sized rainbow trout. Fishing has been fair.

HYATT LAKE: rainbow trout, largemouth bass

Hyatt Lake is now open to angling. The lake is free of ice. The lake has recently been stocked with legal-sized rainbow trout. Fishing has been fair with a few limits of trout being caught.

ILLINOIS RIVER: trout, steelhead

The mainstem Illinois River downstream of Pomeroy Dam will open for adipose fin-clipped trout on May 24. Angling is restricted to artificial flies and lures.

LAIRD LAKE: trout

No report. Laird Lake is located in the head waters of Elk River. Bank access is limited and there is a lot of downed timber.

LAKE MARIE: rainbow trout

Lake Marie at Umpqua Lighthouse State Park near Winchester. The lake has already been stocked with 2,000 trout and should receive another 1,000 prior to Memorial Day Weekend.

LAKE SELMAC: rainbow trout

Lake Selmac has recently been stocked with legal-sized rainbow trout. Fish have been biting well on PowerBait and worms. Casting and retrieving lures or flies can be effective, along with trolling lures or flies from a boat. Largemouth bass and panfish are moving into the shallows, and fishing for them should be good.

LEMOLO RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, brown trout

Lemolo Lake is now ice free and was stocked with 1,500 half-pound trout on May 9. The boat ramp at Poole Creek has been repaired to improve boat access. Anglers this past weekend were catching both brown trout and rainbow trout. There are 9 Forest Service campsites available at Poole Creek and the resort will have about 20 sites ready by Memorial Day Weekend. Although snow has blocked access and stocking at Hemlock Lake and Lake of the Wood, anglers can still try Toketee which has good boat and bank access. Toketee is good for brown trout fishing, especially in the morning.

LIBBY POND: rainbow trout

Fishing is slow. Libby is not scheduled to be stocked until free fishing weekend. Anglers will want to hit the lake in the early morning or late evening for the best success. One of the best methods to catch fish at Libby Pond is fishing PowerBait just off the bottom. Anglers can also do very well fly fishing or casting spinners. The lake is private and no boats are allowed. Anglers are also reminded to pick up all trash.

LOON LAKE: rainbow trout

Loon Lake has been stocked with about 5,000 catchable trout to date. In addition, there were almost 6,000 sub-legal trout stock last fall that should be approaching 8 inches for legal harvest.

LOST CREEK RESERVOIR: rainbow trout

Lost Creek Reservoir has recently been stocked with legal-sized rainbow trout and fishing has been good. Bank anglers primarily fish either floating bait or worms. Boat anglers use a wide variety of techniques. Trollers often fish wedding ring and nightcrawler combinations behind a weight, while fly anglers can have success both trolling and casting. Largemouth bass, smallmouth bass and panfish are also available, and will become more active as the water warms and the fish move into the shallows. As of May 19 the surface water temperature was 64oF.

MEDCO POND: rainbow trout

Medco Pond was recently stocked with rainbow trout. Fishing will likely be best during the afternoon on warmer days when water temperatures are the highest.

PACIFIC OCEAN AND BEACHES: surfperch, bottomfish

Anglers have been getting out for bottomfish recently and reporting success. Bank anglers fishing from the rocks are catching a few fish and boat anglers are doing real well. Bottomfishing in the ocean always depends on ocean and weather conditions.

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

POWERS POND: trout, warmwater fish

Powers Pond was stocked the week of May 5 with legal-sized trout. Trophy and legal-sized trout are being caught on PowerBait.

REINHART PARK POND: trout, warmwater fish

Reinhart Park Pond has recently been stocked with legal-sized rainbow trout. Worms and floating baits have been producing well for trout anglers. Largemouth bass and bluegill have begun to bite small jigs and grubs; anglers should try fishing for these in the afternoon when temperatures are warmer. Fly anglers may want to try casting leech or wooly bugger-type streamers.

ROGUE RIVER, LOWER: spring chinook, steelhead

The Rogue flows are up and muddy. Spring chinook and steelhead are on the move, but anglers are having a tough time getting them to bite. Expect conditions to improve later in the week.

The Rogue Spring Salmon Conservation Plan (http://www.dfw.state.or.us/fish/nfcp/rogue_river/) calls for a research project that determines the relationships between (1) time of freshwater entry, (2) passage timing at Gold Ray Dam, (3) spawning time, and (4) spawning distribution for early-run, mid-run, and late-run spring salmon.

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

ROGUE RIVER, MIDDLE: trout, steelhead

The flow on May 19 was 7,620 cubic feet per second. A few steelhead are being caught back-trolling plugs. Spring chinook have been caught on bait and sardine-wrapped plugs.

Anglers are reminded that the Rogue is closed to angling for trout until May 24 to protect migrating steelhead and coho salmon smolts. In addition, new regulations are in effect for spring chinook angling on the Rogue River. Please see the Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations for more information.

ROGUE RIVER, UPPER: trout, steelhead,

As of May 19, the flow out of William Jess Dam (Lost Creek) was 5,626 cubic feet per second. The outflow temperature was 48 degrees. 9,365 winter steelhead and 1,062 spring chinook have been counted at Gold Ray Dam as of May 14.

Angling for winter steelhead has been fair; however, many of the fish are dark or are down-stream migrants. Bait, lures, and flies are all producing fish. The higher flows will likely make angling more difficult.

Anglers are reminded that the Rogue is closed to angling for trout until May 24 to protect migrating steelhead and coho salmon smolts. In addition, new regulations are in effect for spring angling on the Rogue River. Please see the Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations for more information.

ROGUE RIVER (SECTION 5): rainbow trout

Section 5 of the Rogue (upstream of Lost Creek Reservoir) will be stocked for the first time this year with legal-sized rainbow trout. Snow is restricting access to some of the high elevation stocking sites. This week sites up to Union Creek will be stocked.

SODA SPRINGS RESERVOIR: brown and rainbow trout

Soda Springs reservoir is open for trout angling, plus the tributaries upstream of the reservoir open April 26.

SMITH RIVER: striped bass, trout

Steelhead season is now closed, but trout will open up May 24. Striped bass season is open year round, 2 fish per 24 hours, 30-inch minimum size. The North Fork is open to Johnson Creek for stripers.

SOUTH COAST STREAMS: steelhead

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

SPAULDING POND: rainbow trout

As of May 19, access to Spaulding Pond is still blocked by snow, so the pond has not yet been stocked.

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

Tenmile Lakes is open to fishing year-round. Legal-sized trout were stocked in Tenmile Lakes in late April. Warmwater fish species such as bass, yellow perch, bluegill and crappie are in Tenmile Lakes. Largemouth bass fishing has been excellent. Bass have been caught in shallow water around willows or other trees in the water using jigs. When the water temperature gets over 60 degrees spinner baits and topwater baits start to become effective for catching bass. Yellow perch, bluegills, and crappies should be biting with warming water temperatures. Small jigs with a twister tail or piece of worm are a great choice for panfish. Concentrate your fishing efforts around weedlines or other structure like submerged trees or docks.

TOKETEE LAKE: brown trout

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

UMPQUA ESTUARY: sturgeon, bass

Both sturgeon and striped bass fishing have been slow in the lower Umpqua.

UMPQUA HIGH LAKES AND FOREBAYS: trout

Diamond Lake and Lemolo are open for fishing. Currently, access is limited. Diamond Lake should have at least 50,000 11-inch trout leftover from last year's fingerlings. The Department will start additional stock as soon as some ice is off. The ODFW will stocked Lemolo with 1,500 trout last week and should put in another 1,000 prior to Memorial Day Weekend. Anglers are catching brown trout in addition to rainbow at Lemolo. Meanwhile the department stocked Clearwater Forebay #2 with 1,000 trout. Although snow has also block access and stocking at Hemlock Lake and Lake of the Wood, anglers can still try Toketee which has good boat and bank access. Toketee is good for brown trout fishing, especially in the morning.

UMQUA RIVER MAINSTEM: steelhead, spring

Remember the main stem Umpqua is now closed to wild steelhead harvest; it remains open year-round for adipose fin-clipped steelhead. Spring chinook fishing has been fair to good. Shad should start appearing in larger numbers soon and some anglers have been catching shad in the lower sections. Smallmouth bass angling will improve as the water temperatures warm.

UMPQUA RIVER, NORTH: steelhead

The North has remained fishable. Fishing is switching from winter steelhead to spring chinook and summer steelhead. The final count for winter steelhead at Winchester Dam was 9,511 fish. So far over 450 spring chinook and 170 summer steelhead have passed as of May 15. A few springers have been caught in the Narrows and Swiftwater areas. Remember that only adipose fin-clipped steelhead can be harvested on the North Umpqua. The North is open to catch and release trout fishing from the mouth upstream to Soda Springs Dam.

UMPQUA RIVER, SOUTH: steelhead

The South Umpqua is closed to angling until it opens for trout on May 24. Then the South will be open for both smallmouth bass and trout fishing.

WILLOW LAKE: trout

Willow Lake has recently been stocked with legal sized rainbow trout. Anglers should try using floating bait or worms. Casting and retrieving, or trolling lures or flies can also be effective. Fishing will probably be better in the afternoon during the warmer temperatures.

WINCHESTER BAY: sturgeon,

Fishing remains slow for sturgeon.

RECREATIONAL SHELLFISH IS OPEN

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

Razor clams and current status of particular areas: http://www.dfw.state.or.us/MRP/shellfish/razorclams

Crabbing has been a little slow but picked up recently. Crabbers are encouraged to return soft crabs with little meat back to the water. Crabbing from public docks or boat if available is a great opportunity for families to catch a delicious dinner. Kids often enjoy sorting out the smaller crab that can be abundant. Crabbing in Coos Bay is slowly picking up for people out in the bay with boats but contuniues to be slow from the docks. People with the most success let their crab pots sit undisturbed for long periods of time. Public crabbing docks can be found in Winchester Bay, Bandon, Charleston, and Empire.

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

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

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

* Razor clams and current status of particular areas: http://www.dfw.state.or.us/MRP/shellfish/razorclams

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

SOUTHWEST ZONE HUNTING

OPEN: Squirrel (portion of Rogue unit open year-round), cougar, controlled spring bear (closes May 31), turkey (closes May 31)

Visit ODFW's turkey, spring bear hunting forecasts.

YOUTH HUNTING EVENTS MAY 31

Young Oregon Hunter's Day, Denman Wildlife Area, Central Point, May 31, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Sponsored by OHA Rogue Valley Chapter. Kids age 3-16 can try archery, clay pigeon shooting, lazer shot shooting gallery, fishing, tomahawk throw, pelt ID games. All is free, including lunch and lots of raffle prizes. No pre-registration required.

Youth Outdoor Day, Roseburg Rod and Gun Club, May 31, 9 a.m. n 4 p.m. Free event for kids to try clay shooting, archery, black powder, lazer shot and other activities, plus a free lunch is provided. Call Hedge Jarvis to pre-register (541) 672-2313.

DOUGLAS COUNTY

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

Spring Bear n The SW controlled bear season ends May 31. Bear numbers are good with the highest numbers at lower elevations in the coast range with lower numbers elsewhere in the coast range and Cascades. Hunters can focus on open meadows early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Successful bear hunters are now required to check in the skull within 10 days of the kill.

Turkey n The spring turkey season ends on May 31st.Many gobblers have been taken so far this season. A lot of the hunting pressure has dropped off so now is a good time to find your turkey since few hunters are still afield. In general, most turkeys are found on or adjacent to low-mid elevation private lands associated with oak savannah habitat. Hunters are reminded to obtain permission before hunting on private lands.

JACKSON, JOSEPHINE, CURRY COUNTIES

Bears nSpring black bear season with end May 31. Bear activity has picked up. Hunters are finding bears in green grass openings or in timber areas eating mushrooms. Most hunters are locating bear by spot and stalk methods. Early mornings and evenings are best times as the temperatures begin to increase. Be aware of sows with cubs, it is unlawful to take cubs less than one year old or sows with cubs less than one year old. Hunters need to be aware of new mandatory check for bears this years, refer to page 42 of the 2008 regulation. Hunters are asked to bring bear skulls in thawed and with mouth propped open so biologist can collect and measure needed teeth and able to tag skulls. See ODFW's forecast for more information.

Turkey - Hens should be nesting with toms running alone singly or in small bachelor flocks. Toms can become leery to hen calls, try occasional clucking in areas where known birds hang out, sit and be patient and don't leave too early. If a tom responds, move in closer, calling occasionally then set up; heavy calling may hang up a bird or deter him. Birds can be located in a wide variety of elevations in our area with most in mid to low elevation. Oak savanna habitat provides the best opportunities. Private lands hold numerous turkeys, be sure to ask for permission before hunting.

Coyote n Coyotes are abundant this year. Hunters are using predatory calls for their success. As spring progresses private land owners may allow hunting on their property with upcoming young livestock; be sure to ask for permission to hunt. While hunting coyotes, be aware of approaching cougars as hunters are having cougars come to their calls.

Cougar n Calling has become one of the methods hunters are using to harvest our healthy cougar population. Locate major ridge lines and rocky out-cropping as areas of travel within cougar home range. Hunters are reminded that they must bring their cougar into an ODFW office within 10 days to be checked and tagged, refer to regulations for details. Hunters are asked to bring in cougars thawed and mouths propped open for easier tissue sampling, teeth collection and tagging.

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

COOS COUNTY

Bear- Bears are becoming active due to the warmer conditions and the time of year. Hunters are reporting seeing bears in clear cuts and on slide areas feeding on grass. The most popular method to hunt bears in spring is spotting them with binoculars and spotting scopes then stalking them. Calling with predator calls can also be very effective for hunting spring bears. Hunters are reminded to check the skulls from bears they harvest into local ODFW offices with in ten days for tagging, see the 2008 Big Game Regulations.

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

Turkey - There is limited opportunity to hunt turkeys in Coos County. Birds are distributed in relation to agricultural lands. The densest populations are generally found in eastern Coos County near agricultural lands. Pre-hunt scouting is paramount for hunting birds in the county due to the fact that the populations are spotty in distribution.

SOUTHWEST ZONE VIEWING

Coos County

Migratory shore birds are appearing in big numbers along Coos County coastal and bay areas. Many of these birds will continue on to nesting areas to the north-some as far as the Arctic Circle. Some will remain and nest in the vicinity. Patient birders can see thousands of shorebirds passing a given point on local beaches each day. Species composition is very diverse.

Young marine mammals are present along the coast at this time of year as well. Young seals and sea lions can be entertaining to observe, but please, keep well away from them. Often females will "park" (leave) young animals on local beaches and go to sea to feed. These youngsters are not stranded or abandoned. If you have questions about animals found on the beaches, leave them where they are and call your local ODFW office for information.

Douglas County

Deer Fawns: if you care, leave them there

Fawns will soon be seen in the area. Often a fawn is left alone by its mother while she forages in the vicinity. Please do not pickup or move the fawns. Contact your local ODFW office or reference the ODFW Web site if you have any questions about young wildlife.

Stewart Park Wildlife Trail

The Stewart Park ponds and nature trail system next to Fred Meyer in Roseburg is a great place to enjoy numerous wildlife species. Ducks, geese, turtles, herons, pigeons, nutria, swallows, sparrows and swifts are some of the common wildlife seen in the area. The nature trail has many interpretative signs to read along the way besides great viewing opportunities in this unique wildlife mitigation area.

Turtles and other reptiles

Western Pond Turtles can be seen on warm sunny days and afternoons at all local reservoirs plus Stewart Park Pond in Roseburg. In spring, as temperatures warm, you may run across snakes and lizards coming out of hibernation.

Most all snakes in Western Oregon are non-venomous with the only venomous snake being the Western Rattlesnake. Some common snakes in our area are: Sharptail, Ringneck, Common King, Gopher and Garter (4 species). The most common lizards in our area are: Alligator Lizard (2 species), Western Fence and Western Skink.

Vaux Swift and Swallows

The first Vaux's swifts and various species of swallows have arrived so look for them around local reservoirs and water bodies.

Purple Martin

Purple Martins have arrived so look for them around Plat I Reservoir, Cooper Creek Reservoir and Ten Mile Lake. Purple Martin is our largest swallow in North America and is uncommon and mainly found in Western Oregon communally nesting usually near a large water body.

Fish Passage

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

Jackson and Josephine Counties

ODFW Denman Wildlife Area

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

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

CENTRAL ZONE

FISHING

Some Weekend Fishing Opportunities

* East and Paulina Lakes will be accessible starting noon on Friday and should offer good fishing opportunities for the weekend.

* The salmonfly hatch has started on the Lower Deschutes River with reports of numerous adults in the Maupin area.

Due to expected robust runs of hatchery spring in the Deschutes and Hood Rivers in 2008, ODFW adopted temporary rules to allow sport anglers to fish for spring. The following rules apply to these fisheries:

Deschutes River: The Deschutes River is open to angling for adipose fin-clipped spring salmon from the I-84 bridge upstream to Sherars Falls from April 15 to July 31, 2008. The catch limit is one adult adipose fin-clipped salmon per day, and five adipose fin-clipped jack salmon per day. All non-adipose fin-clipped salmon must be released unharmed. Anglers may use bait from Sherars Falls downstream to the upper railroad trestle. It is unlawful to continue angling from Sherars Falls downstream to the upper railroad trestle after taking a daily bag limit of one adult salmon. All other limits and restrictions remain unchanged from those listed in the 2008 Oregon Sport Fishing Regulation for the Deschutes River.

Hood River: The Hood River from the mouth to Powerdale Dam is open to angling for adipose fin-clipped salmon from April 15 to June 30, 2008. The catch limit is two adult adipose fin-clipped salmon per day, and five adipose fin-clipped jack salmon per day. All salmon that have not been adipose fin-clipped must be released unharmed. All other limits and restrictions remain unchanged from those listed in the 2008 Oregon Sport Fishing Regulation for the Hood River.

ANTELOPE RESERVOIR: Is currently inaccessible to due to snow.

BIG LAVA LAKE: rainbow trout

Is currently accessible with very limited open water as of Wednesday the 21. There is currently no boat access though this could easily change in an afternoon. Please call Lava Lake Resort (541- 382-9443) for updates on lake ice conditions.

CLEAR LAKE: Is currently inaccessible due to snow.

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

Crane Prairie Reservoir is accessible with boat access at the Crane Prairie resort ramp and the Forest Service resort campground day use area ramp. There are unconfirmed reports that Rock Creek boat ramp and Quinn River boat ramp are also open. Angling over the weekend was reported to be fair with some very nice rainbow trout being harvested. Some anglers did manage to get on the lake over the weekend and reportedly had good success for rainbow trout.

CRESCENT LAKE: brown trout, kokanee, rainbow trout

Crescent Lake is ice free. Boat launching is available at the Crescent Lake Resort and the USFS ramp at the Crescent Lake Campground. There is limited parking at the public ramp.

CROOKED RIVER BELOW BOWMAN DAM: redband trout

Last update April 30. The Crooked is currently flowing at 554 cfs. No recent reports from anglers. ODFW and OSU have initiated a radio telemetry study on redband trout and whitefish, and anglers are reminded that radio-tagged fish cannot be legally harvested. To determine if a fish is radio-tagged, anglers should check for an eight-inch wire antenna protruding from the rear of both redband and mountain whitefish.

CULTUS LAKE: lake trout, rainbow trout

Cultus Lake is accessible and this sis typically a good time for folks to find success for lake trout.

DAVIS LAKE: redband trout, largemouth bass

Davis Lake boat ramps at East Davis campground and the undeveloped ramp at Lava Flow are accessible. No report on any angler success at this time. Please note Davis Lake is restricted to fly angling only.

DESCHUTES RIVER:

Mouth to Warm Springs: trout, spring chinook

Spring chinook fishing below Sherars Falls has been good and expect fishing to continue be good the next two weeks. Anglers are being most successful fishing the 'plunking' holes but as the water continues to rise drift fishing should get better. High water conditions will limit angler success, until more seasonal temperatures return. Anglers can access the USGS website for current information on stream flow on the Deschutes at http://waterdata.usgs.gov/or/nwis/current?type=flow.

Trout fishing is improving on the lower Deschutes upstream from White River with the warmer temperatures. A few salmonflies have been observed in the Maupin area. Trout anglers should be successful using nymphs, but anglers should also be watchful for mid-day hatches.

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

Flows in this reach are currently running at 105 cfs. Angling in this reach is reportedly good for both rainbow trout and brown trout.

Benham Falls to Wickiup Reservoir: Opens to angling this coming Saturday, May 24. This reach of river provides opportunity for brown trout and rainbow trout.

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

The ice is beginning to break and it is likely that there will be a fair amount of fishable water by the weekend. There is, or will be, boat access at ramps including Hot Springs. Please check the East Lake Resort website, www.eastlakeresort.com, for up-to-date information. The gates on the road into the National Monument will opened at noon on Friday to allow access to the lakes.

FALL RIVER: rainbow trout

Fly angling only with good opportunity for rainbow trout. Angling is reported to be on the slow side.

FROG LAKE: Is currently inaccessible due to snow.

HAYSTACK RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, brown trout

Recent reports are that anglers have seen success for rainbow trout and brown trout. Haystack provides good opportunity for brown trout and rainbow trout.

HOOD RIVER: summer steelhead, winter steelhead

High water conditions resulting from recent warm temperatures will limit angler success. Anglers can access the USGS website for current information on Hood River stream flow at http://waterdata.usgs.gov/or/nwis/current?type=flow. Decent numbers of bright steelhead are being caught on both bait and hardware. A few early summer run steelhead and spring chinook have also been reported in the catch. We recently saw the peak of winter steelhead in the Hood River, but bright fish continue to be captured at the Powerdale Dam trap. Spring chinook fishing should get better as May progresses.

KINGSLEY RESERVOIR: rainbow trout

Kingsley was recently stocked, and should provide excellent fishing opportunity. Angers should be aware that camping will be limited due to remaining snow drifts.

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

Fishing for bull trout and kokanee has been fair. Kokanee being caught are in good condition, ranging from 10 to 14 inches. Please note the emergency regulation in effect suspending the 25 fish bonus bag for kokanee. Lake bag limit is five trout (including kokanee).

LAURANCE LAKE: rainbow trout

Laurance is ice free and recently stocked. Anglers are reminded that only fin-clipped trout may be kept, and only artificial flies and lures may be used.

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

NORTH TWIN LAKE: rainbow trout

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

OCHOCO RESERVOIR: rainbow trout

Reports of good angling for rainbow trout.

ODELL LAKE: kokanee, lake trout, rainbow trout

The kokanee bite finally kicked in over the weekend. Good success for kokanee 8 to 10 inches though folks fishing a little deeper were able to harvest some fish up to 12 inches in length. . All bull trout need to be released unharmed and anglers are encouraged to take time to learn how to differentiate between lake trout and bull trout. Please check with the Forest Service Crescent Ranger Station for information on campgrounds.

PAULINA LAKE: Brown trout, rainbow trout, kokanee

Paulina Lake is now ice free. The Forest Service will open the gates on the road into the National Monument at noon on Friday to allow access to both Paulina Lake and East Lake.

PINE HOLLOW RESERVOIR: rainbow trout

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

PRINEVILLE RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, black crappie

Anglers are reporting fair success for rainbow trout and the black crappie bite is starting to pick up. Crappie are running up to 9 inches in size.

ROCK CREEK RESERVOIR: rainbow trout

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

SIMTUSTUS LAKE: rainbow trout, bull trout

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

SOUTH TWIN LAKE: rainbow trout

Fishing was reported to be good over the weekend.

SUTTLE LAKE: kokanee, brown trout

Good reports of nice kokanee catches with the fish ranging in size from 10 n 13 inches in length. Anglers are also reporting fair catches of kokanee and a few nice brown trout.

TAYLOR LAKE: rainbow trout

Taylor Lake, located near The Dalles, has been stocked with legal and trophy size rainbow trout and should offer good trout fishing prospects. Several excess hatchery steelhead from Hood River have recently been released into the lake.

WALTON LAKE: Is currently inaccessible.

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

The kokanee bite seems to holding up with some good catches of kokanee up to 14 inches in length. Brown trout angling was also reportedly good. There is also opportunity for largemouth bass and rainbow trout.

CENTRAL ZONE HUNTING

Open: Cougar, controlled spring bear (closes May 31), turkey (closes May 31)

Visit ODFW's turkey, spring bear hunting forecasts.

Snow accumulations have generally retreated except at higher elevations on the Ochoco National Forest where some roads remain impassable. Recreational users should check with the Ochoco National Forest regarding road conditions and any seasonal access restrictions in effect. Motorized access restrictions associated with the South Boundary Green Dot Travel Management Area (TMA) in the Ochoco unit remain in effect year-round. Maps are available at portal signs as you enter the TMA, or from local ODFW and forest service offices.

Turkey n Turkeys can be expected at higher elevations throughout the Lookout Mtn. and Paulina Ranger Districts of the Ochoco National Forest. Hunters should check with the Ochoco National Forest in Prineville and at the Paulina Ranger Station to get the latest reports regarding road and access conditions.

Cougar n Deer, pronghorn, and elk have moved to higher elevation transition and summer ranges. Antelope are having their kids, and elk and deer will soon be following. Cougars may target these animals and hunters would do well to scout for areas deer, elk, and antelope are using.

Coyote n Like cougar, coyotes will be closely following deer and pronghorn as they move into areas to have their young. If hunters can identify areas with solitary does, coyotes will likely be in the vicinity.

Ground Squirrels n Ground squirrels and marmots have been increasingly active and offer great recreational hunting. These animals occur in greatest numbers on private agricultural and ranch lands where permission from landowners is needed.

THE DALLES WILDLIFE DISTRICT

BEAR season continues through May 31. Few bears were harvested in the Hood unit last year. Most hunting access is currently found on private and county timber ground below the snowline. Private agricultural land can also be productive. Beehives are now out in orchards for pollination. Hunt forestland near the beehives or seek permission to hunt on private orchard ground that borders the timber. Hunters can utilize both public land (Mt. Hood National Forest and Hood River County land) and private industrial forestland which is open to hunting. Keep in mind that Forest Service Road 16 on the east end is closed due to a bridge washout, so the road is closed to the Red Hill area.

TURKEY season continues through May 31. Hunters wanting to pursue turkeys should focus their efforts within the White River unit. Most birds will be found in or near the areas where the open oak woodlands begin to give way to the coniferous forest. Hunting pressure is generally high in the White River, so those who want to find lower hunter densities should wait until later in the season to head out. Snow pack may also limit access to higher elevation hunting areas.

Those wishing to pursue COUGARS will probably have the greatest opportunity in canyons such as the Deschutes or John Day, where deer are focusing on green-up on the canyon walls, and where bighorn sheep are congregating near lambing cliffs.

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

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

WHITE RIVER WILDLIFE AREA

Turkey and bear hunting continues through May 31

Turkey hunting is slowing down. Hens are going to roost and toms are getting a little call shy. There are still birds out there that are talking but they are very reluctant to come in to a call. Birds are also starting to move up country with the warmer weather and are scattered out. The hunter numbers are slowing down also which is typical later in the season.

CENTRAL ZONE VIEWING

Prineville Area

Prineville Reservoir Wildlife Management Area

There is a wide range of migratory and resident shorebirds and waterfowl using the shoreline and reservoir. Broods of Canadian Geese and waterfowl are becoming more visible. The best viewing opportunities are at the eastern end of the Wildlife Area along the shoreline. Nesting osprey, bald eagles, golden eagles and red-tail hawks are present in the wildlife area as well. Flocks of terns, tundra swans and pelicans have been observed.

NEW: The Juniper Bass Campsite is now open to public use and camping. Motorized traffic within the management area is restricted to the north side access road and designated routes into dispersed camping sites.

In addition to wildlife viewing, the management area offers hiking and wonderful scenic views of the Crooked River and reservoir. The slopes to the north have steeper and more challenging hiking terrain and offer the best vantage for observing soaring raptors and panoramic views. Good footwear is a must as conditions can vary from steep and rocky, to muddy and wet.

For directions, visit ODFW's Web site.

The Dalles, Mid-Columbia Region and Northern Wasco County

Many different passerine species are moving through the area. Focus your attention to the oak woodlands, where spring conditions are first to appear, and where many species will stop during migration.

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 ewes are now beginning to congregate, bringing with them their new lambs. If you can find a group of ewes, watch closely and you should be able to spot young lambs that are hiding nearby. In the coming weeks as lambs get older, expect to start seeing them become more mobile and visible.

ODFW's Lower Deschutes Wildlife Area is located in The Dalles. For directions and more information.

SOUTHEAST ZONE

FISHING

Some Weekend Fishing Opportunities

* Crappie fishing has been good on Gerber and Topsy Reservoirs and should get better as temperatures rise.

* Flyfishers have been having success on Yellowjacket Lake with leech and midge imitations.

ANA RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout, hybrid bass

Ana Reservoir is open all year long for rainbow trout and hybrid bass angling. The reservoir is at full capacity. Fishing has been good for rainbow trout. Hybrid bass are being captured using bait just off the bottom. Most anglers fish from shore on the east shoreline at night. Many hybrid bass captured are over 10 lbs. The use of live fish for bait is prohibited.

ANA RIVER: hatchery rainbow trout

Ana River is open all year long; water temperatures tend to stay warmer due to spring input out of Ana Reservoir. This is a great place to fish during the early spring. Angling for rainbow trout has been good. The river level is rising as water is being released from the reservoir. 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, large lures and flies mimicking minnows can be very successful. Also, consider trying dry-fly emergers and nymphs.

BALM CREEK RESERVOIR: trout, bass

Reservoir should be good for trout and bass. There may be a few snow drifts on the road, but they are expected to be gone within the next week.

BEULAH RESERVOIR: redband trout, whitefish, bull trout

Inflow into the reservoir varied from approximately 325 to 550 cfs from May 15 to May 19. The reservoir water level continues to rise. It was 73 percent full on May 19. Downstream releases were turned on before April 23. Angling in the reservoir is fair for rainbow trout and slow for crappie.

BIG ROCK RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout

Big Rock is very low and it appears most if not all fish died this winter. 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 will be stocked in the reservoir this spring. Trout stocked as fingerlings will not be of harvestable size until next year.

BLITZEN RIVER: trout

Catch and release angling through late May. Angling is fair for 10 to 16-inch redband trout when flow conditions allow. With a substantial snowpack and unpredictable spring weather conditions, anglers may have to deal with varying water conditions. Flow fluctuated between approximately 275 and 490 cfs from May 5 through May 12. Flow was approximately 300 cfs May 12.

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

Water level in the reservoir continues to drop. The reservoir was 78 percent full on May 19. Angling is slow.

BURNS POND: trout, bass

Trout were stocked in the pond the week of April 21. Angling should be fair to good for rainbow trout.

BURNT RIVER: trout

Was stocked with 1,000 legal trout above Unity Reservoir.

CHICKAHOMINY RESERVOIR: trout

Angling is fair to good for 12 to 19 inch rainbow trout. Bait anglers have had success with cluster eggs. Fly anglers have had some success using midge, leech, and water boatman imitations.

CHEWAUCAN RIVER: redband trout

Angling is closed for all species below the town of Paisley, including the Rivers End Ranch Reservoir. Rivers End Reservoir and the Chewaucan River will open for angling on May 24. Angling will be good for largemouth bass and brown bullhead. Angling is slow for redband trout above Paisley; the river is running high and turbid. Access is open along the river on the paved USFS road.

COTTONWOOD MEADOWS: native redband trout, rainbow trout, brook trout

Access to Cottonwood Meadows is still blocked by snow.

COTTONWOOD RESERVOIR: native redband trout

Cottonwood Road off Hwy 140 to Cottonwood reservoir is free of snow and dry; however, that could change with even minor precipitation. The reservoir is free of ice. Fishing for native redband should improve as water temperatures increase.

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

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.

DELINTMENT LAKE: trout

The lake is now accessible. The lake experienced a partial die-off during the winter. The lake will be stocked with rainbow trout within the next two weeks.

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

The reservoir is free of ice. Access to the reservoir is open. The road and campground are clear of snow, the boat ramps are muddy but usable.

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

Access is open to the reservoir and boat ramp. Catch rates are often low at this reservoir.

DUNCAN RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout

The reservoir is turbid as it fills with snow melt. The reservoir is high and spilling. Water temperatures have warmed significantly which should increase catch rates. Hatches have been observed occurring on the reservoir in the late afternoon. Angling is good for rainbow trout.

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

No access yet due to snow.

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

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

FOURMILE LAKE

Fourmile Lake is blocked by snow and will not likely open until late June.

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

Angling for crappie should be very good in coming weeks as water temperatures have warmed significantly. Look for warmwater fish in the shallow backwater areas.

HAINES POND: rainbow trout

Has been stocked twice with 1,000 legal-sized rainbow trout. Fishing has been very good.

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

A few crappie are being caught as water temperatures have warmed. The lake is very shallow, and high winds can make boating hazardous.

HEART LAKE: hatchery rainbow trout

Access is still blocked due to snow.

HIGGINS RESERVOIR: trout

Opens April 26. Access is walk in only. Has not been stocked for 2 years due to access issues.

HOLBROOK RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout

Access is open. The reservoir will be stocked this week with legal rainbow trout.

HWY 203 POND: trout, bass, bluegill

Has been stocked several times with legal-sized rainbow trout.

JUNIPER LAKE: cutthroat trout

The lake is nearly dry.

KRUMBO RESERVOIR: trout and largemouth bass

The reservoir opened for angling April 26. Angling was fair to good for 12 to 20 inch rainbow trout and also fair to good for largemouth bass. Angling will improve as the water warms up. Bait anglers have had some success with PowerBait, and fly anglers have had some success using leeches. Bass angling was slow, but should improve as the water warms up. 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.

LOFTON RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout

Access is open. The reservoir will be stocked this week with legal rainbow trout.

LUCKY RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout

Access to Lucky Reservoir is blocked by snow drifts and mud.

UPPER KLAMATH AND AGENCY LAKE: redband trout and yellow perch

Angling for redband trout has been good but remember catch rates are typically one fish per ten hours of angling on average. Water temperatures have warmed significantly which have increased redband trout activity and catch rates. Trolling lures mimicking minnows has been good. Bank anglers using bait are also experiencing success.

KLAMATH RIVER: native rainbow and redband trout

Angling below Keno dam is good as flows are currently 1050 cfs and water temperatures have warmed. The Klamath River below JC Boyle Dam to the JC Boyle Powerhouse is very good for catching redband trout. Most redband trout in this section range from 6-12 inches. The Klamath River below the Powerhouse is fair for redband trout 10-14 inches in the early morning before flows increase dramatically.

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

Road into Lake of the Woods off Hwy 140 had been closed by snow and the lodge is also closed. Lake of the Woods is frozen.

LINK RIVER: redband trout

Angling is fair for redband trout. Redband trout are in the river in fair numbers as they migrate to Upper Klamath Lake. Access is available along the entire west side and boats can be launched at Veterans Park and motored upstream to the powerhouse. River flow is low. Redband trout are being caught. The Link River is open year long. Most anglers wade the river and cast lures and spoons that mimic minnows. The river is shallow so light lures should be used.

LOST RIVER: brown bullhead, perch

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

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

On May 19, discharge below Warm Springs Dam was approximately 399 cfs. Angling for trout is slow.

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

On May 19, discharge below Juntura was approximately 829 cfs. Angling for trout is slow.

MALHEUR RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout

The reservoir will be stocked with rainbow trout this week. Water level remains below last year's level at this time. It is slowly dropping as irrigation water is released. The reservoir continues to produce nice catches of 12 to 17-inch rainbow trout. The boat ramp is still in the water.

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

No recent angling report. Road access had been blocked by snow and won't re-open until later this spring. Remember to release bull trout.

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

No recent angling report. Road access had been blocked by snow and won't re-open until later this spring. Remember to release bull trout.

MANN LAKE: trout

Slow angling for cutthroat trout when weather conditions allow. The lake is very low.

MOON RESERVOIR: bass, trout

Angling should be good for bass.

MUD LAKE: hatchery rainbow trout

The lake is low and filling slowly with spring snow melt. Mud Lake experienced a winter kill this year so angling could be poor. The lake is turbid year-around and will warm up quickly.

MURRAY RESERVOIR: trout

Was stocked with 2,000 rainbow trout the last week of April. Fishing should be good using spinners, flies or bait.

NORTH MALHEUR BLM STOCK PONDS: rainbow trout

Angling was good at Littlefield two weeks ago. Trout ranged in size from 10 to 15 inches. No report from Squaw Creek Reservoir. Squaw Creek and Littlefield reservoir were the only reservoirs stocked last year. Spring weather may result in difficult road conditions.

NORTH POWDER PONDS 1 & 2: rainbow trout

North Powder Pond #1 has been stocked three times. North Powder Pond #2 was stocked once.

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

The reservoir was 64 percent full May 19. All boat ramps are accessible. Angling for crappie is fair. Angling for bass is fair to good.

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

Angling for rainbow trout and brown trout is good. Catches of brown from 12 to 20 inches have been common. Rainbow trout are less abundant, but anglers have been catching some larger fish. Flow was 227 cfs May 19.

OWYHEE RIVER (Upper): smallmouth bass and channel catfish

Spring runoff continues on the Owyhee River. Discharge at the Rome gauge varied from approximately 1,300 to 1,600 cfs from May 15 through May 19. Angling for smallmouth is slow and channel catfish is fair.

PAIUTE RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout and hatchery Lahontan cutthroat trout

Angling is slow due to turbid conditions. The reservoir is low.

PHILLIPS RESERVOIR: trout, perch

Phillips was stocked the last week of April with 8,400 legal-sized trout. Some nice- sized bass are being caught. Water level is 45 percent.

PILCHER RESERVOIR: trout

Reports of catching 11-12 inch trout. Reservoir is 60 percent full.

PINE CREEK (Baker County): trout

Pine Creek and North Pine Creek were stocked with legal-sized rainbow trout the first week of May.

POLE CREEK RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout

The reservoir will be stocked with rainbow trout this week. The water level remains below the water level at this time last year. There are few larger rainbow trout in this reservoir. Last year only legal-sized rainbow were stocked. Angling is slowed.

POWDER RIVER: trout

River was stocked with 1,500 rainbow trout below Mason Dam. All areas in the Powder are open to bait fishing.

SOUTH MALHEUR BLM STOCK PONDS: hatchery rainbow trout.

Most of the reservoirs are full and spilling. Angling is expected to be fair. Several reservoirs in the Jordan Valley area were stocked last year. Spring weather may result in difficult road conditions.

SPAULDING RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout

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

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

Angling has been fair for redband trout. Angling should be good for bass and brown bullhead below the town of Beatty.

SPRAGUE RIVER (NORTH AND SOUTH FORK): redband trout, brook trout, brown trout and bull trout

Angling will be slow for redband trout and brown trout. Flows are high which will slow angling. Please release bull trout unharmed.

SUNSTONE RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout

Sunstone reservoir went dry last summer, but it has filled this spring. A small number of legal size rainbow trout were stocked last week, as were a group of Eagle Lake rainbow trout which will be legal by the end of summer.

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

Angling is slow for redband trout. Flows are high.

THIEF VALLEY RESERVOIR: trout

The buoy line near the dam is now fixed. Recent gillnet samples were unproductive. Reservoir is full.

THOMPSON RESERVOIR: largemouth bass, hatchery rainbow trout

Access is open. 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 very good. Water temperatures have warmed significantly. Most crappie are 8-10 inches.

TWIN LAKES (Baker County): rainbow trout

No access yet due to ice, but will be stocked this year with legal trout.

UNITY RESERVOIR: trout, bass, crappie

Trout fishing has been poor but may pickup as the weather warms. Reservoir is full. The campground is open.

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

The reservoir was 38 percent full May 19. Inflows are back on the rise, ranging from 700 cfs down to 1,300 cfs. Fishing is slow.

WARNER LAKES: black crappie, brown bullhead, yellow perch

The Warner Lakes are free of ice and access has improved. Muddy spots remain in the roads so drive with care. Fishing for warm water species will be fair. The lakes are low and shallow; boating access can be difficult.

WILLIAMSON RIVER (UPPER): redband trout and brook trout

Angling will be fair for redband trout and brook trout. Flows are high.

WILLIAMSON RIVER (LOWER):

Angling will be slow for opening day on May 24 due to turbid flows. Water temperatures are warm.

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

Angling for bass has been good.

WOLF CREEK RESERVOIR: crappie, trout

Fishing is fair for 8 to 11-inch trout. Crappie should start biting as the weather warms. Reservoir is 60 percent full.

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

Flows have increased thus angling for brown trout has slowed. Angling for redband trout is slow.

YELLOWJACKET LAKE: trout

Fair to good angling for 10 to 13-inch rainbow trout. Fly anglers have had good success using leech and midge imitations. Bait anglers have had good success using PowerBait.

SOUTHEAST ZONE HUNTING

Open: Cougar, spring bear (closes May 31), spring turkey (closes May 31)

Visit ODFW's turkey, spring bear hunting forecasts.

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

Bear (closes May 31)- The highest bear densities are in the Cascade Mountains with lower densities in the dryer semi-desert portions of the hunt area. Areas for hunters to check include the Keno Unit, western portion of the Sprague Unit, and the Gearhart Mountain area in the Interstate Unit. Focus on the unburned fringes around 2002 fires (Grizzly Fire in Interstate, Toolbox/Winter Fire in Silver Lake) and in riparian areas. Public access is good within the Fremont-Winema National Forest and on open private timberland. Please respect private property, avoid driving on soft or muddy roads. Access continues to be limited by snow in many areas.

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

Turkey (closes May 31) - Turkeys are restricted to the Keno WMU. Severe winter conditions have likely reduced over winter survival for turkeys this year. Hunting access is good in the Keno Unit as much of the area is private timberland which is open to public access. Please respect private property to help maintain public access. Areas to check for turkey activity are south of Highway 66 and west of the Klamath River Canyon to Copco Road.

KLAMATH WILDLIFE AREA

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

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

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

SUMMER LAKE WILDLIFE AREA

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

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

SOUTHEAST ZONE VIEWING

Harney County

Most migrating breeding bird species have arrived in the county and are beginning to nest. A variety of warblers, waterfowl, shorebirds, swallows, gulls and raptors are in the area.

Other species of interest that can be found in Harney County include white-faced ibis, long-billed curlews, black-necked stilts, willets, American Avocets, Swainson's hawks and ferruginous hawks.

Good areas for viewing include the Silvies River flood plain near Burns and the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge. The Center Patrol Road and headquarters area are excellent wildlife viewing areas on the Malheur Refuge.

Klamath Falls Area

NEW: 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.

According to the Audubon Society of Portland, to Oregon birders, the white-headed woodpecker is one of the most sought after birds. It is a striking species with a white head and throat and white wing patches that contrast with a coal-black body. Upper Klamath Lake is one of the few areas in Oregon where you usually have a fair chance of seeing the species.

To increase your chances of a sighting, ODFW biologists recommend following the loop road up into the forested area of the park-there are places to park. Early to late morning are generally the best viewing times but this time of year, the birds are very active all day nesting and feeding young birds.

For more information on the white-header woodpecker, visit the Audubon Society of Portland Web site.

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. Western and Clark's grebes have returned from southern wintering areas and are actively involved in courtship displays. 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.

White-faced ibis can be found foraging in flooded pastures. Ibis are also colonial nesters using bulrush and cattails to nest.

Klamath Wildlife Area

Great Basin Canada geese have been seen with young broods. There are still pairs nesting on the area, so please watch your step. If nests or broods are encountered, please move away quietly and not disturb them during this critical time of the year.

Shorebird migration continues in earnest as number and species spring arrival increases. American avocets and black-necked stilts, two common breeding species are fairly numerous now. Some species such as killdeer are beginning to nest now. Area users are urged to use caution while driving and parking. Killdeer frequently nest in gravel, along road shoulders, parking areas and at campgrounds.

Viewers can expect to see other shorebird species arrive soon, especially if moderate weather conditions persist. Sandhill cranes are scattered across the Wildlife Area with most pairs occupying their breeding territories and nesting is underway. Cranes are very vocal in the early morning hours calling to proclaim territories and reinforcing pair bonds. Colts (young sandhill cranes) should be appearing within the next few weeks. Scattered individuals and small groups of non-breeding cranes can sometimes be found.

Note: Please restrict your vehicular access to the public roads and parking lots to minimize disturbance of wildlife during this time of year. Dogs are allowed only at the designated dog training area near the boat ramp. Overnight camping is not allowed on the Miller Island Unit.

Lake County and Lakeview Area

Migrating waterfowl and shorebirds have moved through the county and resident nesting species have arrived. Good viewing opportunities in the Warner Valley, Goose Lake Valley and hay meadows south of Paisley for terns, gulls, ibis and other water birds.

Migrating Lesser Sandhill crane have moved north out of the county. Greater sandhill cranes are in the early stages of nest initiation and are common throughout the major wetland systems and flooded pastures.

Bighorn sheep have moved into their traditional lambing areas and most lambs were born prior to this week. Bighorns have their lambs in the steep rocky cliffs within their herd range. The lambing rocks are visible from good roads along Fish Creek Rim, Abert Rim and across from the Summer Lake Hot Springs. To see them, use high powered binoculars or a spotting scope.

Summer Lake Wildlife Area

This section was updated on May 19, 2008 with lots of new information. Vehicle access to the Wildlife Viewing Loop is open. Other major dike roads are closed to motor vehicles (non-motorized access permitted) to reduce disturbance to nesting and migrating water birds.

Nearly all of the Area's wetlands are well flooded and receiving considerable waterbird use. Northward migrants continue to arrive, ducks, shorebirds and passerine species are staging in good numbers and many species are well into breeding season. Nearly all arctic nesting geese and tundra swans have departed for northerly staging areas enroute to arctic breeding grounds, although a few late migrants remain. Other migrant waterbirds continue to arrive and breeding season is beginning to intensify.

Waterfowl

Breeding ducks have arrived and are staging in good numbers. Nearly all of the Area's 13 breeding species are well represented at this time. Ducks remain widely scattered across the Area dispersed to and actively defending territories. A large number can be found in Bullgate Refuge where major habitat enhancement activities took place in 2007. Ducks are in their bright and colorful nuptial plumage as the breeding season advances. Nearly all species have formed pairs and courtship activity has been very evident. Nesting is well underway for early species such as cinnamon teal and mallards, with a few early broods on the ground at this time. Later nesting gadwall will be establishing news over the next several weeks.

Resident Canada geese are dispersed widely across the Wildlife Area and adjacent private lands. Hatching is winding down for this species, and broods are being observed frequently. Late and repeat nesting from earlier unsuccessful attempts continues. Broods remain very secretive and adults will be entering the molt soon. If nests or broods are encountered, please move away quietly and not disturb them during this critical time of the year. Good sized flocks of non-breeding (most will not breed until their 2nd or 3rd year of life) and unsuccessful breeders can be found at this time. Soon these flocks will be departing on a molt migration to large wetland complexes, some as far away as Canada.

Greater white-fronted geese have departed the Area although a few remain on the Wildlife Area at this time.

Shorebirds, waders and other waterbirds

Shorebird migration continues although most species have passed through enroute to more northerly and arctic breeding areas. Nearly all dunlin, least and western sandpipers have departed. Last week, black-bellied plovers were observed and other species should arrive soon. This is a good time to find rare or unusual species moving through the area during migration. American avocets and black-necked stilts, two common breeding species, are very numerous now and are beginning to nest. Bullgate Refuge, where extensive habitat enhancement took place last summer is providing excellent foraging opportunities for many species. Other species such as killdeer and long-billed curlew are widely dispersed and well into nesting now. Area users are urged to use caution while driving and parking. Killdeer frequently nest in gravel, along road shoulders, parking areas and at campgrounds.

Sandhill cranes are scattered across the Wildlife Area with most pairs occupying their breeding territories and nesting is underway. Cranes are very vocal in the early morning hours calling to proclaim territories and reinforcing pair bonds. Colts (young sandhill cranes) should be appearing within the next few weeks. Scattered individuals, pairs and small groups of non-breeding cranes can sometimes be found.

Recently conducted marshbird surveys have detected a large number of rails (sora and Virginia) and American bitterns throughout emergent marsh areas. Morning and evening hours around sunrise and sunset afford excellent opportunities to hear these secretive birds.

Other waterbird species continue to arrive and increase in number. Caspian and Forster's terns are very numerous now, and black terns arrived over the past weekend. American white pelicans and Great egrets are quite common and can be found feeding on small fish in the Area's larger ponds or canals. Other resident waterbirds should be increasing in number as spring progresses and breeding season advances. American bitterns are calling in earnest now and their "pumper-lump" sounds are quite common especially in early morning and evenings.

Raptors and Others

Resident raptors remain scattered throughout the Wildlife Area as well as on private lands along Highway 31. Migrant raptors are found in good numbers throughout the Summer Lake Basin and are very apparent along Highway 31. Meadows offer excellent foraging opportunities for many raptors. Northern harriers are especially numerous over marsh and hay meadows. Courtship flights are winding down now as most female harriers are nesting. Bald eagles are infrequently seen across the Wildlife Area now. A few pairs are scattered along Winter Ridge and adults can sometimes be seen foraging over Wildlife Area wetlands. Prairie falcons and golden eagles are sometimes seen during this time of the year. Great-horned owls are well into raising young and several chicks have been observed in nests. Osprey have returned from their southern wintering areas and can be found at Ana Reservoir occupying the nesting platform.

Upland game birds

California quail coveys have dispersed into breeding pairs and can be found scattered throughout out the Wildlife Area at this time. Ring-neck pheasant roosters continue to be heard crowing and displaying, especially in early morning and evening time. The season's first pheasant brood was observed recently.

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

Passerine (perching) species, especially sparrows and finches remain fairly common around the Headquarters complex, Summer Lake Rest Area, homestead sites and shelter break plantings at the north end of the Area where they are attracted to tree and shrub cover. Migrant passerines including a wide variety of species can be found across the Wildlife Area now. Last week large numbers of American and lesser goldfinches, pine siskins and house finches were present. New spring arrivals continue to be observed almost daily. Over the weekend a vagrant great-tailed grackle was observed at Headquarters.

Blackbirds are found throughout the Area's emergent marsh areas, most on territory and well into nesting. American robins, warbling vireos, black-headed grosbeaks and yellow warblers are quite numerous around the Headquarters Complex now. All three common swallow species (barn, cliff and tree) are very numerous and actively nesting at Headquarters Complex and the River Ranch barn where nest boxes and sites are in abundance. Bank and N. rough-winged swallows can be found along the Ana River Canyon where an abundance of soft banks allow them to excavate their nest burrows.

Facilities and Access

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

The Wildlife Viewing Loop is open and will remain that way until early fall. Other major dikes (Bullgate, Gold and Windbreak) and the Work Road are now closed. This closure is implemented to reduce disturbance to migrating and breeding waterbirds. Non-motorized access is still permitted on these major dikes and other lesser ones.

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

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

Habitat

Many of the Wildlife Area's wetland habitats are well flooded now, and large areas of shallowly flooded seasonal wetlands are available to waterbirds. Irrigation season in Summer Lake Valley is underway and as water is diverted, there is a significant decrease in flows down Ana River and to many wetland units on the Wildlife Area. Some seasonally flooded wetland units are receding and will provide foraging opportunities to breeding and migrant waterbirds. These wetlands are favored by a wide variety of migrants and are very rich in natural food sources. New feeding locations are being exposed on a near daily basis now as evaporation rates rise radically in the summer heat.

Warm day time temperatures has allowed for the emergence of large numbers of midges especially in Bullgate Refuge where habitat enhancement activities last summer created ideal conditions for these and other invertebrates. Mosquitoes are becoming numerous now and provide another abundant food source to insectivorous birds. Please remember to use protective measures to avoid these biting insects. Spring control burned areas have greened-up rapidly and invertebrate populations there are responding favorably to blackened conditions that absorb sunlight and increase soil temperatures.

Meadows and hayfields found on adjacent private lands and in selected locations on the Wildlife Area are greening-up rapidly and some areas are receiving irrigation which creates shallow flooded conditions that are very attractive to foraging birds. As meadows receive water through flood irrigation, considerable waterbird use will occur. Flocks of white-faced ibis favor these newly flooded sites where they can locate displaced earthworms and other invertebrates. These areas continue to provide excellent hunting sites for raptors. As temperatures continue to warm and rising water levels displace them, small mammal activity increases and provides food to many species of raptors.

Upland habitat remains in good condition and the lengthening days coupled with warm daytime temperatures is resulting in excellent green-up and new 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 open, cultivated areas.

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

NORTHEAST ZONE

FISHING

Some Weekend Fishing Opportunities

* Kinney Lake opens Saturday May 24 and should provide good angling for stocked rainbow trout.

* The ice is off Wallowa Lake and anglers report fair to good fishing for kokanee.

GRANDE RONDE, WALLOWA, IMNAHA RIVERS AND TRIBUTARIES:

Northeast Oregon streams will open for trout angling on May 24. Streams are expected to have high flows and poor angling conditions for the opening weekend.

HONEYMOON, TEPEE, SALT CREEK, AND McGRAW PONDS: trout

Forest ponds in Wallowa County remain inaccessible because of snow blocking forest roads. They will be stocked when weather and road conditions allow access.

JOHN DAY RIVER: Bass

Smallmouth bass angling is fair to good, but success is highly dependent on river conditions. Anglers should expect river flows to rise with the arrival of warmer weather and increased snow melt. The John Day River below Kimberly is open all year; however, upstream from Kimberly and the North Fork and tributaries are closed to angling until May 24.

KINNEY LAKE: trout

Kinney Lake will be stocked prior to opening on May 24. We expect trout angling to be good for the opening weekend.

LADD POND \ PEACH POND: trout

Pond was stocked with 500 legal rainbow trout week of April 14, and will be restocked week of April 28 with 700 additional trout. Was also stocked with 40 surplus steelhead in late March. Catch them as trout.

MAGONE LAKE: trout

Access is open from Highway 395 up Beech Creek to the south end of the lake and boat ramp.

McKAY RESERVIOR: trout, yellow perch, crappie, largemouth bass

Trout angling should be fair to good, angling for warmwater species is good. The reservoir is approximately 90 percent full.

MCNARY, HATROCK AND TATONE PONDS

Have been stocked with legal-sized rainbow trout. Fishing is expected to be good.

MARR, VICTOR, AND WALLOWA WILDLIFE AREA PONDS: trout

Wallowa Valley ponds are accessible and have recently been stocked with legal-size rainbow trout.

MORGAN LAKE: trout, bullheads, crappie

Fishing opens April 26, but the opening day event has been cancelled due to ice. As of April 22, the lake was still iced over. Legal rainbow trout will be stocked week of April 28.

ROULET POND: trout

Pond was stocked with 500 rainbow trout week of April 14, and will be restocked week of April 28 with 450 additional trout. Was also stocked with 40 surplus steelhead in late March. Catch them as trout.

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

All have thawed and fishing is slow to fair for holdover trout. All have been stocked with legal-sized trout.

TROUT FARM POND: trout

Access can is still limited until snowplows clear the road and parking is limited. Angling success is fair for brook trout and hold over rainbow trout.

UMATILLA RIVER: spring chinook

Spring chinook angling remained slow this past week, high turbid river flows have limited angling success. Total spring chinook return to Threemile Dam to date is 500. Only adipose fin-clipped spring chinook salmon may be kept. The bag limit for spring is 2 adults and 5 jacks per day and 10 adults per year. The Umatilla River from the Hwy 730 bridge upstream to Three Mile Dam is open to spring chinook angling from April 16 - May 21. The Umatilla River from Three Mile Dam upstream to the reservation boundary located upstream from the Hwy 11 bridge at Pendleton is open from April 16 n June 30.

Increased river flows have improved passage conditions at the Feed Canal Diversion Dam, allowing for the release of spring directly above Threemile Falls Dam. We will continue to monitor the passage conditions at Feed Canal.

UMATILLA FOREST PONDS: Trout

Access is limited; the ponds have not been stocked this spring. Angling should be fair for carryover trout.

WALLOWA LAKE: rainbow trout, kokanee

Ice is off Wallowa Lake and the lake has been stocked with legal-sized rainbow. Trout fishing is good for boat and bank anglers using bait or lures. Boat launching facilities are in at the north end of the lake and boat anglers are reporting fair to good success for kokanee. Most reports have come from anglers trolling with flashers and bait near the surface of the lake.

WILLOW CREEK RESERVOIR: Trout, crappie, bullhead catfish

Trout angling is fair. Crappie angling is good.

NORTHEAST ZONE HUNTING

OPEN: Cougar, controlled spring bear (closes May 31), turkey (closes May 31)

Visit ODFW's turkey and spring bear hunting forecasts.

UNION COUNTY

Spring bear hunting continues through May 31. Look for bears on open south slopes. Bears will move up-slope and out of canyons as snow recedes. Snow continues to limit access to portions of most units. Many forest roads will be soft with early snow melt, take care not to cause unnecessary ruts. Successful hunters are reminded that the skull of any bear taken must be checked in at an ODFW office within 10 days of the kill.

Turkey season continues through May 31. Turkeys are moving upslope and out of their winter range. Look for good numbers of birds at the north end of the Grande Ronde valley. Snow continues to limit access to some hunting areas.

Cougar populations are healthy to increasing in the area. Tracking cougars to kill-sites can be a productive way to harvest a wary cat. Calling with fawn and calf distress calls can be productive in late spring and early summer.

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

LADD MARSH WILDLIFE AREA

Hunting seasons are now closed.

GRANT COUNTY

Turkey hunting closes May 31. Turkeys are widely distributed throughout the district. Get a map and understand property boundaries as many of the turkeys are on private property and permission is needed to hunt. The John Day Valley is primarily private land but hunters can access public land along the north and middle fork of the John Day River in the Malheur and Umatilla national forests and at the ODFW-managed Phillip W. Schneider Wildlife Area.

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

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

Controlled spring bear hunting is open through May 31. Observations from an ongoing statewide bear study suggest that the northwest section of the Beulah Unit and the Northside Unit have higher bear densities. The hunt area experienced a heavy winter and snow levels are above average in the higher elevations, so access could be an issue.

MORROW, GILLIAM and WHEELER COUNTIES

Spring turkey and bear are rapidly approaching their end (May 31). Snow has melted off most of the south slopes and lower elevation areas but there are still areas that have deep snow. As these clear of snow and green up, turkeys will continue to move there. The turkey population is healthy and hunting success appears to be good this season.

Cougar populations are healthy. Concentrate looking for fresh cougar sign in areas that have deer and elk. Calling with distress type calls, fawn and calf are the most popular, but don't rule out smaller animal distress calls. Finding a fresh natural predator kill has the best chance for success. Dawn and dusk are the best times for calling.

Coyotes are more challenging this time of The coyote population is very healthy. Find a good location with fresh coyote sign, preferably in an area of little human activity. Watch wind direction to help prevent giving away your location. Using fawn distress type calls, in addition to rabbit, can be very effective.

UMATILLA COUNTY

BEAR (closes May 31): For the W. Blue Mtns hunt, bear density is highest in the northern portion (north of Interstate 84) and lower as one goes south and west in the hunt area. Bear activity early in the season is concentrated along the lower elevation fringes of national forest land. Bears follow the green-up elevation band; concentrate on timbered slopes with small openings with lush green moss, sedge, or grassy areas.

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

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

WALLOWA DISTRICT

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

COYOTE: Good numbers of coyotes can be found throughout Wallowa County. Calling coyotes with rabbit distress type calls has been effective for hunters. It is important to choose areas with abundant coyote sign and little human activity. Deep and drifting snows have closed most forest roads to standard vehicle travel. Hunters may need to employ snow machines to reach areas off plowed roads.

TURKEY (closes May 31): Turkey numbers are still good despite some loss of birds this past winter. Hunter success has been fair in areas where hunters can find access. Hunter access to areas previously blocked by snow is now improving. Hunters can still expect deep snow drifts where roads traverse north slopes.

SPRING BEAR (closes May 31): Spring bear hunter success improved the past two weeks. Bear activity in the canyons has increased with recent warm weather patterns. Hunter access is still difficult in the Minam, Imnaha, and Wenaha units due to deep snow. Many canyon areas in the Wenaha unit are free of snow and hunters can access these areas by snow machine. Most areas are now accessible in the Sled Springs and Chesnimnus units.

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

BAKER COUNTY

COUGAR: Populations are high across the county.

COYOTE: Coyote numbers are good throughout the district.

BEAR (closes May 31): Access conditions due to snowpack are continuing to improve but access is still restricted in many areas. Only the lowest elevation roads on the Wallowa Whitman National Forest are passable at this time.

TURKEY (closes May 31): Turkey numbers going into the winter were high in Baker County, particularly in the Sumpter, Keating and Pine Creek units. Although there was some winter loss, turkey numbers remain good. Look for turkeys anywhere in the lower elevations in the transition between agriculture and forestland. There is public land hunting access on BLM, Wallowa-Whitman National Forest; and ODFW Elkhorn Wildlife Area. Some higher elevations still have snow. Remember to ask for permission before hunting on private properties.

NORTHEAST ZONE VIEWING

Baker County

Bighorn sheep ewes are lambing. Viewing opportunities exist in the Burnt River Canyon west of Durkee or along the Snake River Road south of Richland.

Red-tailed hawks have returned to the Baker Valley and can be seen making and repairing nests in larger deciduous trees. A short drive through the valley can result in many viewing opportunities. Bald and golden eagles can be seen along open water areas of the Snake River and Brownlee Reservoir. For best viewing, drive the Snake River Road between Richland and Huntington.

Union County

Turkey Vultures have been spotted at various sights around the valley. Canadian Geese are pairing up and can be viewed around the valley near water. Sandhill cranes and trumpeter swans can be viewed along Pierce Road and Foothill Road. Look for eagles and rough-legged hawks along Peach road.

Pronghorn Antelope can be viewed on Ladd Marsh Wildlife Area, often along Pierce road and Hot lake Lane. Deer and elk can be seen around the edges of the valley. Deer fawns and elk calves will soon be appearing; these animals rely on hiding for survival and should never be handled. A doe or cow will feed away from her young and return periodically through out the day to nurse.

ODFW's Ladd Marsh Wildlife Area, La Grande

Birdathon 2008: Birdwatching was nothing short of fantastic for the 150 participants in the Ladd March Birdathon on May 10 and 11. The Sunday morning field trips tallied a combined 117 species viewed. This is only five species short of the Union County single day record for bird species observed! If you didn't make it to La Grande this year, put it on the calendar for 2009.

American avocet and black-necked stilt have returned to Ladd Marsh and can be seen in the Tule Lake Public Access Area or from roads elsewhere in the wildlife area. Greater and lesser yellowlegs, western sandpiper, Wilson's phalarope and dunlin have been observed in the past few days.

Spring nesting: Broods of newly hatched Canada geese can be observed throughout the area and the first broods of mallards are expected soon. Young birds are vulnerable to disturbance so please do not approach families of ducks, geese or other birds too closely.

Swainson's hawks have returned and can be observed building nests in various locations around the wildlife area. Red-tailed hawks, most of which stuck out the winter in the Grande Ronde Valley, are already incubating eggs in several nests around Ladd Marsh.

Most of the tundra swans and greater white-fronted geese have moved on, continuing their northward migration. However, a few swans remain in scattered locations around the wildlife area. Please report any neck-banded swans observed to wildlife area staff, 541-963-4954. A wide variety of duck species are present including: mallard, northern pintail, redhead, common goldeneye, gadwall, American wigeon, wood duck, bufflehead, ring-necked duck and cinnamon and green-winged teal.

Most of the migrating sandhill cranes have left Ladd Marsh, headed for their breeding grounds far to the north. However, twelve or more pairs of greater sandhill cranes nest at Ladd Marsh. These birds may be seen from points along Foothill Road and Hot Lake Lane. Please report any banded sandhill cranes to wildlife area staff at the number above. 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. A few pronghorn have been observed from Pierce Road and more may arrive in the next several weeks. Other mammals to watch for include Columbian ground squirrels, Belding's ground squirrels, white-tail and mule deer, elk and coyotes.

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

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

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

Umatilla County

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.

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

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 are pairing up at this time and can be seen traveling in flocks up and down the river systems with cottonwood trees along the banks.

Wallowa County

NEW: Spring birds are late coming to Wallowa County. This week, black-headed grosbeaks were observed in the Wallowa Valley and bobolinks will be here soon. Elk are starting to calve and can be seen on the Zumwalt Prairie from the Zumwalt Road in the Chesnimnus Unit.

Bighorn sheep lambs are being seen along the lower Imnaha River Road to Cactus Mountain. Many species of birds can also be seen in the same area, especially in riparian areas.

SNAKE RIVER ZONE

FISHING

BROWNLEE RESERVOIR:

Generally fishing has been slow as the water has been very low and muddy. Most boat ramps are out of the water except Woodhead Park. The bass fishing has picked up and a few perch are being caught from boats. The reservoir is 48 feet below normal. Call Idaho Power Company's recording at 1-800-422-3143 to get information on access at recreational sites or visit www.idahopower.com under the "Rivers and Recreation" heading.

Reservoir level information:

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

OXBOW RESERVOIR: trout

No recent report.

HELLS CANYON RESERVOIR: trout

No recent report.

SNAKE RIVER below HELLS CANYON RESERVOIR: steelhead, trout, salmon, smallmouth bass

The Snake River from Hell's Canyon Dam to the Oregon/Washington state line closed for steelhead angling on April 30.

The Snake River from Dug Bar boat ramp upstream to the deadline below Hell's Canyon Dam opened for spring salmon angling on April 26. The daily bag limit is three adipose fin-clipped adult per day. Two jack (less than 24 inches) may be kept in addition to the adult limit. Barbless hooks are required. Counts of adult salmon over Lower Granite Dam have been low, to date, but are beginning to increase. We expect salmon angling to be slow until fish numbers improve.

Trout and smallmouth bass fishing are good. To get updated information on flow levels go to: http://www.idahopower.com/riversrec/waterlevels/streamflow/

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

Flows near Nyssa have ranged from 2,200 to 6.000 cfs from May 7 through May 13. Flows near Weiser have ranged from 16,500 cfs to 19,500 cfs from May 7 through May 13. Angling is good for 18 to 28 inch catfish. Smallmouth bass angling remains slow.

COLUMBIA ZONE

FISHING

SALMON, STEELHEAD, AND SHAD:

The opening of the mainstem lower Columbia River recreational summer steelhead fishery scheduled for Friday May 16 between the Tongue Point/Rocky Point line and the I-5 Bridge has been postponed until further notice but will open no later than June 16.

COLUMBIA RIVER MAINSTEM, Buoy 10 Line upstream to the Tongue Point/Rocky Point line: This section of the Columbia River is currently closed to angling for salmon and steelhead but is open to angling for shad.

COLUMBIA RIVER MAINSTEM, Rocky Point/Tongue Point line upstream to the I-5 Bridge: This section of the Columbia River is currently closed to angling for salmon and steelhead but is open to angling for shad. The opening of the mainstem lower Columbia River recreational summer steelhead fishery scheduled for Friday May 16 between the Tongue Point/Rocky Point line and the I-5 Bridge has been postponed until further notice but will open no later than June 16.

COLUMBIA RIVER MAINSTEM, I-5 upstream to Bonneville Dam: This section of the Columbia River is currently closed to angling for salmon and steelhead but is open to angling for shad.

COLUMBIA RIVER MAINSTEM, Bonneville Dam to McNary Dam: Effective Sunday May 11, this section of the Columbia River is closed to angling for salmon and steelhead but is open to angling for shad.

Gorge Bank:

Weekly checking showed 16 shad kept for 24 bank anglers.

Gorge Boats:

Weekend checking showed 15 shad kept for one boat.

Troutdale Boat & Bank:

Weekend checking showed no shad catch reported for one boat.

Portland to Longview Boat & Bank:

Weekend checking showed 12 shad kept for two boats.

Estuary Boat & Bank: CLOSED.

Bonneville Pool: CLOSED.

The Dalles Pool: CLOSED.

John Day Pool: CLOSED.

STURGEON:

BUOY 10 UPSTREAM TO WAUNA POWERLINES (including Youngs Bay and all adjacent Washington tributaries): Effective Saturday May 10 through Tuesday June 24, 2008 this section of the Columbia River is open seven days per week to the retention of sturgeon. The daily bag limit is one fish between 45 and 60 inches in length and the annual limit is five fish. The use of more than one single point barbless hook is prohibited.

The Compact adopted the following rules at the December 13 Joint State Hearing for the sturgeon sport fishery below Wauna power lines (RM 40) downstream to Buoy 10, including Youngs Bay and all adjacent Washington tributaries for 2008:

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

* Prohibit the retention of sturgeon seven days per week during Wednesday June 25, 2008 through December 31, 2008. Catch and release angling is allowed during all retention closures.

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

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

WAUNA POWERLINES UPSTREAM TO BONNEVILLE DAM (including all adjacent Washington tributaries and the Willamette River downstream of Willamette Falls including the Multnomah Channel): This section of the Columbia River is currently open to the retention of sturgeon on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. The daily bag limit is one fish between 42 and 60 inches in length and the annual limit is five fish. The use of more than one single point barbless hook is prohibited. All sturgeon angling is prohibited from Marker 85 upstream to Bonneville Dam during May 1 through July 31 to protect spawning sturgeon.

The Compact adopted the following rules at the December 13 Joint State Hearing for the sturgeon sport fishery above Wauna power lines (RM 40) upstream to Bonneville Dam, including all adjacent Washington tributaries, and the lower Willamette River (including the Multnomah Channel) upstream to Willamette Falls for 2008:

* Allow the retention of white sturgeon four days per week on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday during January 1, 2008 through July 31, 2008 and October 1 through December 31, 2008.

* Prohibit the retention of sturgeon three days per week on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday during January 1-July 31, 2008 and October 1 through December 31, 2008 and seven days per week during August 1 through September 30, 2008.

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

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

BONNEVILLE DAM UPSTREAM TO THE DALLES DAM:

Effective January 1, 2008 this section of the Columbia River is open to the retention of sturgeon seven days per week until the catch guideline is reached with a daily bag limit of one fish between 42 and 60 inches in length and an annual limit of five fish. The annual catch guideline for the Bonneville pool is 700 fish.

THE DALLES DAM UPSTREAM TO JOHN DAY DAM:

Effective 12:01 AM Saturday March 15 through December 31, 2008 the retention of sturgeon in The Dalles pool and tributaries is prohibited because the catch guideline of 100 fish has been met. Catch and release angling is allowed during the retention prohibition; however, all sturgeon angling is prohibited in the mainstem Columbia River from the west end of the grain silo located near Rufus upstream to John Day Dam during May 1 through July 31, 2008 to protect spawning sturgeon. Catch and release in this sanctuary re-opens August 1.

JOHN DAY DAM UPSTREAM TO MCNARY DAM:

Effective 12:01 AM Wednesday, March 26 through December 31, 2008 the retention of sturgeon in the John Day pool and tributaries is prohibited because the catch guideline of 165 fish has been met. Catch and release angling is allowed during the retention prohibition; however, all sturgeon angling is prohibited from the highway 82 bridge (Hwy 395) upstream to McNary Dam from May 1 through July 31 to protect oversize spawning sturgeon. Catch and release in this sanctuary re-opens August 1.

On the lower Columbia River this past weekend, sturgeon anglers had the best success in the Gorge below Marker 85 where boat anglers averaged 1.32 legal white sturgeon caught per boat. In the estuary boat anglers averaged 0.28 legal white sturgeon caught per boat, while in Troutdale boat anglers averaged 0.25 legal white sturgeon caught per boat.

Gorge Bank: CLOSED above Marker 85.

No report.

Gorge Boats below Marker 85:

Weekend checking showed 18 legal white sturgeon kept, plus seven legal, three oversize, and 183 sublegal sturgeon released for 19 boats (complete trips).

Troutdale Boats:

Weekend checking showed one legal white sturgeon kept, plus two legal, one oversize, and 31 sublegal sturgeon released for 12 boats (complete trips).

Portland to Longview Bank:

No report.

Portland to Longview Boats:

Weekend checking showed one legal white sturgeon kept, and 48 sublegal sturgeon released for 42 boats (complete and incomplete trips).

Estuary Bank:

Weekend checking showed no catch reported for 11 bank anglers.

Estuary Boats:

Weekend checking showed 15 legal white sturgeon kept, plus one legal and 91 sublegal sturgeon released for 57 boats (complete trips). The Columbia River downstream of Wauna powerlines to Buoy 10 reopened Saturday May 10 with a 45" minimum size limit.

Bonneville Pool:

Weekly checking showed 13 sublegal sturgeon released for 24 bank anglers; and four legal white sturgeon kept, plus one oversize, and 20 sublegal sturgeon released for six boats.

The Dalles Pool: CLOSED FOR RETENTION.

John Day Pool: CLOSED FOR RETENTION.

WALLEYE:

Bonneville Pool:

Weekly checking showed no catch reported for one boat.

The Dalles Pool:

No report.

John Day Pool:

No report.

Gorge boats:

No report.

Troutdale boats:

No report.

MARINE ZONE

FISHING

Eight out of 10 anglers were successful during the first all-depth open days for Pacific halibut on the central coast May 8 through 10. An estimated 1,468 fish were taken during that opening with most fish weighing around 15 to 20 pounds. The all-depth fishery is open every Thursday, Friday and Saturday until June 14.

The nearshore season (inside 40 fathoms) for the central coast (from Cape Falcon to Humbug Mountain) is open seven days a week. For the Columbia River area (from Leadbetter Point, Wash., to Cape Falcon) the fishery is open seven days a week until the 13,133-pound quota is met or July 20. South of Humbug Mountain the season opens May 1, seven days a week, through Oct. 31. Specific dates and regulations are online at http://www.dfw.state.or.us/MRP/.

Ocean anglers had good success catching near limits of lingcod and rockfish. Cabezon are also biting well. Shrimp flies work well for catching rockfish. Surfperch can often be found in bays and estuaries from spring though early summer. Shore-based anglers continue to find some success fishing off jetties. Species illustrations and descriptions are in The Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations booklet (page 98) and The Red Rockfish Identification Guide. The minimum length for lingcod is 22 inches, for cabezon it is 16 inches and for greenling it is 10 inches.

The marine daily bag limit for 2008 is six fish (including rockfish, greenling and other marine species) and two lingcod and 15 surfperch. Remember: yelloweye rockfish and canary rockfish may not be retained. The Stonewall Bank Yelloweye Rockfish Conservation Area approximately 15 miles west of Newport is closed to the harvest of rockfish, lingcod, flatfish and others.

In addition, the ocean is closed outside of the 40-fathom line (defined by waypoints) April 1 through Sept. 30 for lingcod; flatfish (except P. halibut during authorized seasons); and rockfish, greenling, cabezon, skates and other bottom-dwelling species.

Complete regulations and waypoints for the Stonewall Bank YRCA and 40-fathom line are online at http://www.dfw.state.or.us/fish/docs/2008_Sport_Ocean_Regulations.pdf. The 2008 Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations are also available from license vendors and ODFW offices. Seasons and regulations for marine fish other than salmon and Pacific halibut are the same as in 2007.

Ocean salmon seasons do not open until June. For a summary of the ocean salmon seasons off the Oregon coast go to: http://www.dfw.state.or.us/fish/docs/2008_Sport_Ocean_Regulations.pdf

Crabs

Sport crabbing is open in the ocean, bays and estuaries but continues to be quite slow. The average catch per angler is slightly more than one crab. For more information on sport crabbing visit http://www.dfw.state.or.us/MRP/shellfish/.

For sport crabbers the minimum size for Dungeness crab is 5¾ inches measured in a straight line across the back immediately in front of, but not including, the points. For a photograph and diagram see page 101 of the Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations booklet.

Clams

A morning minus tide series continues through May 26. Saturday's tide will be -0.6 at about 9:50 a.m. and Sunday's will be -0.4 at about 10:30 a.m., depending where you are on the coast. Minus tides provide good access to bay and razor clams. A recent survey of razor clam diggers around Newport found that most were able to dig a limit in a little more than one hour.

The recreational harvest of all shellfish, including all clams and mussels, is open coastwide but harvesters should check for current closures on the ODA shellfish safety page at http://www.oregon.gov/ODA/FSD/shellfish_status.shtml or call the shellfish hotline, 503-986-4728 or 1-800-448-2474. Waters can be closed on short notice because of contaminated waters due to coastal flooding and because of elevated levels of naturally occurring toxins.

Check out the recreational clam pages on the ODFW Web site at http://www.dfw.state.or.us/MRP/shellfish/. They contain everything you need to know for identifying and harvesting Oregon's clams.

MARINE ZONE VIEWING

A morning minus tide series continues through May 26. Saturday's tide will be -0.6 at about 9:50 a.m. and Sunday's will be -0.4 at about 10:30 a.m., depending where you are on the coast.

This will provide good tidepooling for beach goers. Look for anemones, hermit crabs, sea urchins, small fish, jelly fish, sea stars, barnacles and other animals of the intertidal region. If high surf makes tidepooling on the ocean beaches dangerous, try looking for wildlife in the mud flats of coastal bays and rivers.

Minus tides also provide good access to bay and razor clams. A recent survey of razor clam diggers around Newport found that most were able to dig a limit in a little more than one hour. See the fishing section of this report for more information.

Killer and gray whales

In spring, pods of transient killer whales patrol the central Oregon coast, looking for baby gray whales as well as sea lions and seals to eat. They are rarely seen in these waters, but at this time of year, keen observers can count on spotting a few. They are more often seen in the Depoe Bay and Newport areas, but they can be spotted from Cascade Head to Florence.

The last of the gray whales migration past the Oregon coast are females with calves. They provide an enticing target for the killer whales. You can see the spouts of the mothers and calves just off rocky headlands as they hug the coast to avoid the killer whales.

Shorebirds

During spring, thousands of shorebirds stop in coastal estuaries to rest and feed on their migration north to Arctic Breeding areas. Common murres, tufted puffins, pigeon guillemots and Brandt's, pelagic and double-crested cormorants can be seen nesting on many of the coastal rocks and islands. Pelicans are also back on the Oregon coast.