The Oregon Recreation Report (fishing, hunting, viewing), updated June 23 by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife:

Make plans for an ocean coho fishing trip

For the 2009 season managers have set the largest ocean coho quota since 1992.

The season south of Cape Falcon opened last weekend and the rest of the Oregon coast opens this Sunday. Don't miss the chance to hook into some of these easily-targeted and hard-fighting fish. The season continues at least through August (longer in some areas). See details.

Leftover tags on sale July 15 at 10 a.m. PT

Leftover big game controlled hunt tags usually sell out in minutes and are available for purchase at license agents and ODFW offices that sell licenses. They will not be sold online.

Purchase big game tags online

Controlled hunt results were made available last week and can be found online. Purchase your tag online, or at an ODFW office or license agent.

Learn how to fly-fish, razor clam, safely use a shotgun and more

Visit ODFW's outdoor skills page to see the variety of workshops available. The clinics teach the basic skills needed to take part in outdoor activities safely. All necessary equipment plus lunch are provided at events.

License Dollars at Work

Program funding improves fishing opportunities in Coos County

From fishing docks to a winter steelhead telemetry study, several Coos Country fisheries have benefited from projects funded by the Restoration and Enhancement Program. Read more.

WILLAMETTE ZONE

Weekend fishing opportunities:

* Walleye are being caught on the Multnomah Channel.

* Summer steelhead fishing is fair on the Clackamas River.

* Fishing for bass and other warmwater species is picking up on the Willamette River and other locations throughout the region.

* A few summer steelhead are being caught on the Sandy River

STOCKING SCHEDULE

The 2009 trout stocking program for Willamette Valley lakes, ponds and streams starts ramping up this month and will continue through most of the year. The schedules are now posted at our website. Note the scheduled stocking dates for each pond are set for the Monday of that respective week and may not coincide with the actual stocking date that could occur on any given week day.

North Willamette stocking schedule

South Willamette stocking schedule

WARM WATER ANGLING:

Warmwater fishing, particularly for smallmouth bass, picked up in the lower Willamette River with increasing river temperatures. Action will continue if temperatures hold or elevate further in the coming weeks.

ALTON BAKER CANOE CANAL: rainbow trout

Recently stocked with 750 legal-sized and 125 larger rainbow trout. Eugene.

BENSON LAKE: trout

Recently stocked with 4,000 legal-sized rainbow trout. Benson a 40-acre lake located in Benson Lake State Park near the Columbia River. Take the Benson State Park exit just before Multnomah Falls off of I-84 going east.

BIG CLIFF RESERVOIR: trout

Recently stocked with 2,500 legal-sized rainbow trout. Big Cliff Reservoir is located 47 miles east of Salem, off Hwy. 22.

BLUE RIVER RESERVOIR: trout

Recently stocked with 3,000 legal-sized rainbow trout. Blue River Reservoir is located 42 miles east of Eugene off of Hwy. 126.

BLUE RIVER ABOVE THE RESERVOIR: trout

Recently stocked with 1,500 legal-sized rainbow trout. Forty-two miles east of Eugene off Highway 126.

BREITENBUSH RIVER: trout

Will be stocked this week with 1,800 legal-sized rainbow trout.

CARMEN RESERVOIR: trout

Recently stocked with 3,000 legal-sized rainbow trout. The reservoir is located on the upper McKenzie River, about 2 miles south of Clear Lake on Hwy. 126, 21 miles north of the McKenzie Hwy.

CLACKAMAS RIVER: steelhead, chinook

The summer weather pattern has settled upon the area resulting in low flows and some difficult boating conditions. Effort from both boat and bank anglers has slowed, with low water making the river more of a drift boat affair. This is particularly true above Barton. Fishing early is probably the best choice before the recreational rafters hit the water.

Summer steelhead angling has been fair but the spring chinook angling is slow in most sections of the river. Jacks continue to have show up with good numbers in the checks recently. Some decent dusk bank catches have been reported at McIver Park and the summer steelhead catch remains good at Dog Creek.

The Clackamas Hatchery at McIver Park has opened its trap and has good numbers of both spring chinook and summer steelhead are swimming in.

A new fishery has opened on the lower Clackamas River. Under rules adopted last fall by the Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission, anglers will be allowed to keep up to two fin-clipped fish per day from the mouth of the river upstream to Rivermill Dam and also from the Hwy. 211 Bridge upstream to North Fork Dam. There is no restriction on length as long as the fish are adipose fin-clipped. The bag limit between Rivermill Dam and the Hwy. 211 Bridge (Estacada Lake) is unchanged at 5 fish per day. The fish may be no less than 8 inches long in this area in order to be retained.

The Clackamas River upstream of the highway 99 bridge will remain open for spring chinook under permanent rules.

Monday readings for the Clackamas showed flows down to 2,030 cfs (12.08') with the water temperature near 54°.

Bank anglers can find access to the river in the Gladstone/Cross Park area, at Carver near the mouth of Clear Creek, along Clackamas River Rd, at Barton Park, at Bonnie Lure Park, at McIver Park.

CLEAR LAKE: trout

Recently stocked with 4,500 legal-sized rainbow trout. Clear Lake is located approximately 3 miles south of the junction of highways 126 and 20.

DETROIT LAKE: trout

Will be stocked this week with 10,000 legal-sized rainbow trout. Detroit Reservoir is located 50 miles east of Salem, off Hwy. 22, two miles west of Detroit. The town of Detroit is near the upper (east) end of the lake.

EAGLE CREEK: spring chinook

Adult spring chinook have returned to the creek. This is the first significant return of adult springers from smolt releases that were initiated in 2005 and have continued every spring since. These fish have been observed in good numbers as far up as the hatchery. Some Clackamas River stray summer steelhead have also been seen in the creek. Very few anglers have been taking advantage of this fishery. The creek is becoming less fishable since the water level is dropping quickly with the dry weather. Look for chinook to be found in the deeper pools.

ESTACADA LAKE: trout, steelhead, salmon

Recently stocked with 2,000 legal-sized rainbow trout. The lake now has a new boat ramp and ADA accessible fishing platform, which opened last week. The new facilities can be accessed from Milo McIver State Park. Estacada is a 150-acre lake on the Clackamas River behind River Mill Dam at Estacada.

FALL CREEK: trout

Will be stocked with 2,000 legal-sized rainbow trout. Fifteen miles southeast of Springfield.

FARADAY LAKE: trout

Recently stocked with 2,000 legal-sized rainbow trout. Faraday is a 25-acre lake 2 miles SE of Estacada by way of Hwy 224 on the Clackamas River. This is a bank fishing only lake, but good access can be found around most of the shore line.

GOLD LAKE: trout

Fly-fishing only with barbless hooks. Catch-and-release for rainbow trout. There is no limit on size or number of brook trout taken.

HALDEMAN POND: trout

The pond located on Sauvie Island is stocked a few times in April and early May with hatchery rainbow, and some holdovers should still be available. Haldeman pond is a 2-acre pond, offering good bank access. Sauvie Island is located only 10 miles north of Portland off Hwy. 30. A parking permit is required for the Sauvie Island Wildlife Area and can be purchased at ODFW License vendors or at the Sauvie Island ODFW office, Monday through Friday during office hours. For more information, call (503) 621-3488. Directions to Sauvie Island Wildlife Area.

HARRIET LAKE: trout

Recently stocked with 5,000 legal-sized rainbow trout. Harriet also holds some trophy-size brown trout and brook trout. Trolling with spinners and worms is the most effective method from a boat. Casting spinners from the bank can prove to be successful. This is a 23-acre reservoir on Oak Grove Fork of Clackamas River in the Mt. Hood National Forest.

HARTMAN POND: trout, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, catfish, bluegill, crappie, perch, trout.

Recently stocked with 1,250 legal-sized rainbow trout. From I-84, take the Benson Lake exit. The pond is adjacent to the Columbia River adjoining Benson State Park.

HENRY HAGG LAKE: trout, warmwater fish

This popular and boat accessible lake is heavily stocked all spring with hatchery rainbow trout. The lake was stocked last week with 6,500 legal-sized rainbow trout, and some holdovers should be available. Surface temperatures have warmed into the 70s, however, making shore fishing for trout more difficult. Warmwater fish like bass, sunfish and perch may be available nearer to shore, particularly in the morning and early evening. Hagg Lake spans 1,110 acres and has miles of bank access as well. It is located 7 miles southwest of Forest Grove off of Hwy. 47.

LEABURG LAKE: trout

Leaburg Lake will be stocked this week with 1,200 legal-sized trout and 150 larger trout. Leaburg Lake is the reservoir behind Leaburg Dam on the McKenzie River, approximately 17 miles east of Springfield on Hwy. 126.

MCKENZIE RIVER (below Leaburg Lake): trout

The McKenzie River below Leaburg Lake will be stocked this week with 3,600 legal-sized rainbow trout and 1,575 larger trout. East of Eugene and Springfield along Hwy 126.

MCKENZIE RIVER (above Leaburg Lake): trout

The McKenzie River above Leaburg Lake will be stocked this week 1,000 legal-sized rainbow trout.

NORTH FORK RESERVOIR: trout

Recently stocked with 7,000 legal-sized rainbow trout. This is a 350-acre reservoir on the Clackamas River 7 miles south of Estacada off of Hwy. 224.

Boat anglers will find trolling to be a successful method, particularly along the shore opposite the marina and ramp. Worms or other bait behind a flasher can be effective. Bank anglers will find access fishing the shoreline along Hwy 224. Popular methods include cured single salmon eggs, artificial trout baits, or worms.

As the weather warms this is a popular water skiing and jet ski lake. Angling after late morning can be affected by choppy water from heavy boat traffic.

NORTH AND SOUTH SANTIAM: steelhead, chinook

Prospects and catch rates are improving in both systems as fish numbers increase and river levels drop. A new regulation which restricts angling to artificial flies and lures went into effect this year in the Little North Fork Santiam.

QUARTZVILLE CREEK: trout

Recently stocked with 2,000 legal-sized rainbow trout. From Hwy. 20 at Sweet Home, continue east to the upstream end of Foster Reservoir, then turn north (left) toward Sunnyside Campground crossing the northeast arm of Foster. Turn right on the Quartzville Rd., which follows the northern shore of Green Peter Reservoir, including the Quartsville Arm. Follow Quartzville Creek upstream more than 25 miles into Willamette National Forest (Forest Rd. 11).

SALMON CREEK: trout

Will be stocked this week with 2,000 legal-sized rainbow trout. Follow Hwy. 58 east from Springfield through Oakridge to Willamette Fish Hatchery one mile east of town to Forest Rd. 24.

SANDY RIVER: steelhead, spring chinook

Angling effort on the Sandy remains light with a scattering of fish landed. The occasional summer steelhead has been taken in the Cedar Creek area below the hatchery and a few up near Dodge Park. Spring chinook angling has been slow, with a few fish hooked in the lower river.

The water tends to silt up due to the annual glacial melt-off when the weather warms, but to date the river remains fishable. If warmer summer temperatures occur the river can be expected to take on a cloudy, milky color. Monday flow readings on the Sandy River were down to 1,360 cfs (9.04 ft) with the water at 56°.

Collection/recycling receptacles for discarded or lost fishing gear can now be found along the Sandy River. Look for them near boat ramps at Lewis and Clark, Dabney, Oxbow, and Dodge parks. Any tangled fishing line or old gear can be collected and disposed of in these canisters as an effort to maintain a healthy, clean Sandy River. Littering has become a big problem on the Sandy below Cedar Creek. In other areas along the Sandy this has been cited as the rationale for restrictions on access. Please use nearby garbage cans for any other types of trash.

SANTIAM RIVER: trout

The North Fork of the river above Detroit Lake was recently stocked with 3,000 legal-sized rainbow trout.

New trout regulations that went into effect this year allow anglers to keep up to two fin-clipped trout per day in the mainstem, North Fork up to Big Cliff Dam, and South Fork up to Foster Dam. There is no restriction on length as long as the fish are adipose fin-clipped.

SALT CREEK: trout

Recently stocked with 500 legal-sized trout at several access points along the stream.

SILVER CREEK RESERVOIR: trout

Will be stocked this week with 2,600 legal-sized rainbow trout and 250 larger trout. Silver Creek is a 65-acre reservoir on Silver Creek 2.5 miles south of Silverton on Hwy. 214.

SMALL FRY LAKE: trout

Recently stocked with 300 legal-sized rainbow trout. Small Fry Lake is a youth only fishing venue located on the Clackamas River 7 miles south of Estacada off of Hwy. 224. Fishing is restricted to youngsters 12 and under.

SOUTH YAMHILL RIVER: trout

The river is now open from its confluence with the North Yamhill near McMinnville, upstream about 20 miles to Rock Creek near Grand Ronde. The daily bag limit is 5 fin-clipped fish of any size, however no bait may be used, a measure needed to protect wild trout and young steelhead rearing in the river.

ST LOUIS PONDS: rainbow trout, crappie, catfish

Gets stocked heavily through spring with legal-sized trout, and larger trout too. Many of the fish are still available. Ponds 1, 3, and 6 have all had fish stocked in them. Prospects for bass, catfish, crappie and bluegill are improving with rising water temperatures. This 54-acre complex of 7 ponds is owned and managed by ODFW, and in addition to stocked trout contains several species of warmwater fish. The site is located west of the town of Gervais. Take St. Louis Road west to Tesch Lane, turn left and follow the road to the ponds.

TIMOTHY MEADOWS: trout

Recently stocked with 3,000 legal-sized rainbow trout. Timothy Meadows is a 1,400-acre lake about 80 miles east of Portland past Mt. Hood. From Hwy. 26, turn onto Skyline Rd. (FS42).

TRAIL BRIDGE RESERVOIR: rainbow trout

Recently stocked with 3,000 legal-sized rainbow trout. Only flies and lures may be used and only adipose fin-clipped trout may be harvested. Trail Bridge Reservoir is located about 60 miles east of Springfield on Highway 126.

TRILLIUM LAKE: rainbow trout

Will be stocked this week with 4,000 legal-sized rainbow trout and 125 trophy trout. Trillium is a 60-acre lake 3 miles east of Government Camp off of Hwy 26.

WEST SALISH POND: trout

Recently stocked with 1,500 legal-sized rainbow trout. As the water warms in this pond, the trout will tend to move into deeper areas away from shore. Traditional artificial trout baits and worms fished below a bobber or on the bottom should prove to be effective. Casting spinners can also produce good results. The pond is located in Fairview behind Salish Elementary school. It is located on NE Glisan between 201st and 207th Ave. From I-84, take the 207th Ave. Exit, and head south to Glisan and

WILLAMETTE RIVER: shad, steelhead, sturgeon, warmwater fish

Spring chinook angling ended on the Willamette River below Willamette Falls on April 30. This includes the Multnomah Channel and the Clackamas River downstream of the Hwy 99 Bridge. Chinook fishing on the Columbia River is now closed. Staff will continue to monitor spring chinook passage at Bonneville Dam for the potential to provide additional recreational fishing opportunity.

The Willamette River upstream of Willamette Falls will remain open for spring chinook under permanent rules. The Clackamas River is also open for spring chinook with fair catches being recorded.

Sturgeon angling was slow during the most recent retention period. The St Johns area and Oregon City/Gladstone continue to provide the best action. As normal, sublegals dominated the catch with few legals also landed, both from boat and bank anglers.

Bank fishing for sturgeon can be found at Meldrum Bar, at the Hwy 99 wall in downtown Oregon City and at Kelly Point on the St. Johns peninsula. Sturgeon anglers have been using frozen smelt, squid, herring and anchovies as effective bait. As in any fishery, anglers are reminded that all sturgeon released should be done so unharmed.

Sturgeon anglers are reminded that effective Jan. 1, 2009, sturgeon fishing on the Willamette is allowed 3 days a week - Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

Also new for this year is the method of measuring sturgeon for retention. Under the new rules, sturgeon are now measured from the tip of the nose to the fork in the tail (rather than the tip of the tail). The resulting allowed retention measurements are slightly shorter than the old method. As a result, the 2009 slot measurement for sturgeon caught in the Willamette River will be 38 to 54 inches. Remember, this is a simple conversion of the old method. It does not mean you can keep smaller fish, only that the method of measuring "keepers" has changed. For a detailed explanation of how to measure sturgeon under the new rule, please visit our Web site.

Shad angling is still very slow for early June, but should improve in the coming days. When the run arrives, some quality shad angling can be found in Multnomah Channel and Oregon City.

Winter steelhead counting at Willamette Falls ended May 15 with a season total of 2,813 fish moving through the ladder. Summer steelhead passage remains strong with a total of 9,727 summer steelhead having moved beyond the falls through June 17.

Spring chinook counts have far surpassed the 2008 final counts as ideal passage conditions continue. A total of 20,486 chinook have moved through the ladder through June 17. The spring chinook jack count has moved up to 1,909.

Hydro readings at Willamette Falls on Monday showed flows dropping to 9,300 cfs, the temperature up to 68° and visibility a very clear 6.2 feet.

The Willamette provides an excellent warm water fishery in the summer and early fall months. You can expect to find an abundance of bass, crappie, and bluegill available. Target the rocky outcroppings, structures, or old pilings. Casting a variety of plugs or jigs near the shoreline can be successful. A simple bobber and night crawler might prove to be the right choice also. The local tackle shops can set you up with the right gear and direct you to the best spots. Lately, warm water anglers have reported catching primarily smallmouth bass at depths of 30 to 40 feet.

Anglers fishing the Multnomah Channel recently have reported catching some nice walleye. Successful tactics include trolling plugs as well as bottom draggers with worms.

WILLAMETTE RIVER, COAST FORK: trout

The Coast Fork Willamette River was last stocked in mid-May with a total of 1,500 legal-sized rainbow trout, dispersed at several locations near downtown Cottage Grove.

WILLAMETTE RIVER, MIDDLE FORK above HILLS CREEK RESERVOIR: trout

The Middle Fork Willamette River above Hills Creek Reservoir was recently stocked with 1,215 legal-sized rainbow trout.

WILLAMETTE ZONE HUNTING

Don't forget to report your hunt results. Anyone who purchases a big game or turkey tag must report hunt results online or by phone. Reporting is required even if you did not fill your tag or go hunting. More information

EE WILSON WILDLIFE AREA

Hunting is now closed. The photo blind is now available. Call the wildlife area for reservations 541-745-5334. EE Wilson Wildlife Area is located approximately 10 miles north of Corvallis on Hwy. 99W. The address is 29555 Camp Adair Road, Monmouth, OR 97361.

FERN RIDGE WILDLIFE AREA

Fern Ridge Wildlife Area is now closed to hunting.

SAUVIE ISLAND WILDLIFE AREA

Waterfowl hunting on in the Wildlife Area is now closed.

WILLAMETTE ZONE VIEWING

EVENTS

Dragonflies of the Willamette Valley, Wednesday, June 24

Join Jim Johnson and the Portland Audubon Society for an evening class on dragonflies and damselflies. Class will take place at Heron Hall, 5151 NW Cornell Road, Portland, OR 97210, with field trips to follow June 27 and June 28 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Contact Steve Engle for more information at sengel@audubonportland.org, ph. 971-222-6119.

Sauvie Island Wildlife Area Public Meetings

Four meetings will be held to discuss the proposed Sauvie Island Management Plan, which will govern activities on the wildlife area over the next 10 years. The plan can be viewed at http://www.dfw.state.or.us/wildlife

The meetings are scheduled as follows:

" Sauvie Island School

June 30, 7-9 p.m., 14445 NW Charlton Road, Portland OR 97231

" Clackamas

July 30, 2009, 7-9 p.m., Monarch Hotel, 12566 SE 93rd Ave., Clackamas, OR 97015

" Sauvie Island School

Aug. 25, 2009, 7-9 p.m., 14445 NW Charlton Road, Portland OR 97231

" Sauvie Island School

Sept. 22, 2009, 7-9 p.m., 14445 NW Charlton Road, Portland OR 97231

Valleywide

The WESTERN MEADOWLARK was voted Oregon's state bird by school children in 1927. Meadowlarks are found in grassland-type habitats where they sing from perches such as fence posts, shrubs, trees, or powerlines. Remnant grassland prairie habitats, pastures and even young Christmas tree plantations along the edge of the Willamette Valley are good places to find these birds. Listen for their liquid, melodious song. Western meadowlarks can be seen in fair numbers just north of the east end of Diamond Hill Rd. (Diamond hill road crosses I-5 at the Harrisburg exit). There are untilled pasture lands that still support the native Willamette Valley sunflower and our state bird that has such a beautiful and distinctive call. Although meadowlark populations are abundant in Eastern Oregon, they are declining in the valley because of loss of native prairie to farming and development. s their habitat shrinks nest predators like fox, skunk, raccoon and non-native opossum and house cats have an increasing impact on these grassland birds.

HARLEQUIN DUCKS are Oregon's only "anadromous" duck. This seaduck winters in the churning rocky intertidal zone at the coast and then moves inland to breed on turbulent mountain streams that mimic the crashing waters of their coastal environment. This bird has adapted to a unique way of life geared to taking advantage of the abundance of food that occurs where water flows fast and frothy. Harlequin ducks can be viewed in the spring and early summer along the middle and upper McKenzie River at Cooks Rapid or Bear Creek Rapid and the Middle Fork Willamette River around the town of Oakridge. They can also be found on the North Santiam River from Mill City upstream to above Marion Forks.

NEWTS, a type of salamander common in the Pacific Northwest, may be observed in their migration from terrestrial environs such as rotten logs and moist soil to their breeding grounds in ponds, small lakes and the edges of streams. These small amphibians may be found if you are hiking in forests during or just after it rains.

GREAT BLUE HERONS have young in their nests at this time of year. The young are very vocal when the adults arrive with food. One of the most visible colonies in the area is in a large cottonwood tree along the bike path at the east end of Alton Baker Park in Springfield (east side of I-5, north side of the millrace). Herons are usually very sensitive to disturbance and in other areas several instances of nest abandonment are known to have occurred due to human disturbance. This colony is especially acclimated to and tolerant of people. To minimize disturbance to the birds, do not approach the base of the tree from the north side of the millrace. Another very visible colony is in a stand of large cottonwood trees next to a pond on the east side of Delta Hwy, just north of the Valley River Shopping Mall in Eugene.

Many animals have young in the nest or den at this time of year. Typically the adult is foraging for food nearby and will return. Please do not pick up young birds or mammals, as this can decrease their chance of survival.

Snakes bask when the sun shines

THREE SPECIES OF GARTER SNAKE occur in the Willamette Valley. They are the most commonly seen snakes. Much variability in coloration exists in garter snakes but the best identifying characteristic is a stripe down the middle of the snake's back. No other snake species in western Oregon has a stripe down the middle. A good place to see these harmless snakes is on gravel roads and trails through wetland areas. Wildlife areas in the Willamette Valley such as Fern Ridge, Finley, EE Wilson, Baskett Slough and Ankeny are all good areas to see these beautiful animals. Best viewing conditions are on warm sunny days.

EE Wilson Wildlife Area

Waterfowl and shorebirds numbers are building. A waterfowl blind is available to photographers. Call the office at 541-745-5334 to reserve the blind.

From Albany, take Highway 20 toward Corvallis and after 5 miles turn right on Independence Highway. Go 3 miles and turn left on Camp Adair Road, then proceed 2 miles to the wildlife area. Find directions to EE Wilson Wildlife Area.

Fern Ridge Wildlife Area and Reservoir

Fern Ridge Reservoir has extensive wildlife habitat that can be accessed from many access points including Royal Avenue which extends from west Eugene to the reservoir and ends at a gated access point. This is an excellent place to observe wildlife. Berms were built in this area during 2000 and 2001 to retain water along the edge of the reservoir during the winter months when the reservoir is drawn down for flood control. These ponded areas are very attractive to wildlife at this time of year. Also accessible from this access point are natural prairie habitats (to the north and south) that are very rare in the Willamette Valley. In addition to the abundance of waterfowl, many raptors can be seen in this area. Look for short eared owls and peregrine falcons. Also visible from this area are wading birds, such as egrets and herons and various shorebirds.

Fern Ridge Wildlife Area

All units of Fern Ridge Wildlife Area are open to public access for the summer months. There are many access points available and viewing opportunities are excellent for a wide variety of wildlife, particularly birds. Wildlife viewing platforms are available in the Fisher Butte unit located a short walk from parking lots on Royal Avenue and Hwy 126. The viewing platform located north of the Hwy 126 parking lot provides a great overlook of the adjacent wet low prairie. Many varieties of wild flowers are now in bloom and the colors of the landscape are remarkable.

Visitors are reminded that dogs must be kept on leash at all times.

Parking areas are located along Highway 126, Nielson Road, Cantrell Road, Territorial Highway, and Clear Lake Road. Visitors are cautioned that there have been recent vehicle break-ins at area parking lots. Please secure your valuables before leaving your vehicle unattended. Contact the wildlife area headquarters, (541) 935-2591 if you have any questions.

Sauvie Island Wildlife Area

The Sauvie Island Wildlife Area eastside units and Westside, Oak Island and North units are open. All areas require a Sauvie Island Wildlife Area Parking Permit.

Sauvie Island is a main stopping point for migratory birds as they travel along the Pacific Flyway, and ODFW actively manages the Wildlife Area to provide food and cover for them. An abundance of ducks and geese can be seen from many points around the island, as can raptors, including bald eagles, northern harriers, sandhill cranes, red-tailed hawks and American kestrel. Spring migrants are arriving such as orange-crowned warbler, pacific-slope flycatcher and purple martins. The first Canada goose brood was observed over the weekend.

Sauvie Island Wildlife Area is located on Sauvie Island, only 10 miles north of Portland off Highway 30. A parking permit is required for the Sauvie Island Wildlife Area and can be purchased at ODFW License vendors, at the Sauvie Island ODFW office, Monday through Friday during office hours or online. For more information, call (503) 621-3488. Directions to Sauvie Island Wildlife Area

NORTHWEST ZONE

FISHING

NORTH COAST LAKES

Cape Meares Lake was not stocked as scheduled last week due to excessively warm water temperatures, with fish being diverted to Hebo and Town lakes. Other lakes were stocked as scheduled. No further trout stocking is scheduled until September. The 2009 stocking schedule is available online.

Angling for warmwater fish, particularly bass, should be good. Cape Meares, Lytle, Cullaby, Sunset, Coffenbury and Vernonia lakes offer fair to good populations of warmwater species. Weed growth will begin to make angling difficult in some areas.

MID COAST LAKES

Trout stocking on Mid Coast Lakes: Trout fishing in the lakes has been good and will remain productive until warm summer weather reduce trout activity. Many water bodies on the stocking schedule have 8 to 12-inch trout with some locations containing 2 pound trophy trout. This is a great time of year to get out and catch some rainbow trout.

Olalla Reservoir near Toledo was recently stocked with adult summer steelhead from the Siletz River. These large fish provide an excellent additional opportunity for anglers.

WARM WATER FISH ANGLING OPPORTUNITIES

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

Devils Lake (Lincoln City): Offers good trout fishing, particularly at this time of year, and also provides some angling opportunity for largemouth bass, yellow perch and bluegill.

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

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

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

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

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

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

ALSEA RIVER: cutthroat

The Alsea River including tide water is currently open to cutthroat trout angling. Bait is not allowed except in tidewater areas; small spinners are very effective. Angling has been good for resident cutthroat trout and is expected to continue to be productive with the return of sea-runs beginning in July. The 2009 Fishing Regulations booklet should be checked for specific areas closed to cutthroat trout angling. Excellent opportunities also exist for harvest of crayfish.

NECANICUM RIVER: cutthroat

Angling for trout has been fair, with minimal effort.

NEHALEM RIVER AND NORTH FORK NEHALEM RIVER: cutthroat

Angling for trout has been fair to good. Sea-run cutthroat will begin entering the system in better numbers in July.

NESTUCCA RIVER AND THREE RIVERS: steelhead, chinook, cutthroat

Summer steelhead and spring chinook angling is fair to good. Fish are spreading out up the river. Low flows are beginning to make floating difficult- stick to the lower river for boating. All standard techniques should produce fish, but utilize smaller baits and lighter lines for best results. Angling for cutthroat trout should be fair to good.

SILETZ RIVER: summer steelhead and cutthroat trout

Steelhead fishing is open year round on the Siletz. Summer steelhead angling is excellent on the Siletz with fish spread upstream throughout the gorge area upstream of Moonshine Park (River Mile 54). Anglers are reminded that there are access restrictions in the gorge road upstream from Moonshine Park on weekdays due to heavy logging traffic on the privately owned road. The gorge road is open to the public on weekends and walk in angling is allowed during the week. In the upper river particularly good techniques are to use a bobber and jig or sand shrimp, or even to bait a jig with a little bit of shrimp. In addition to bobbers, drifting eggs close to the bottom and small to medium sized spinners can also be very effective.

Angling for cutthroat trout is also open throughout much of the Siletz Basin with good fishing expected for small resident wild fish.

SIUSLAW RIVER: cutthroat trout

Angling for cutthroat trout is open throughout most of the Siuslaw Basin including tributaries. The 2009 Fishing Regulations booklet should be checked for specific areas closed to cutthroat trout angling. Excellent opportunities are available for harvest of crayfish. Tide water remains open year round to marine species.

TILLAMOOK BAY: sturgeon, chinook

Angling for sturgeon has been slow to fair. Sand shrimp fished on the bottom in the deeper channels will produce the best results. Move frequently to find fish if you are not getting bites. Fishing is usually best in the upper bay and Tillamook tidewater areas as the summer progresses. Spring chinook are still being caught throughout the bay sporadically as fish move through. Trolling herring in the lower bay or large spinners further up the bay are the most productive techniques.

TRASK RIVER: steelhead, chinook, cutthroat

Spring chinook angling has been fair to good. Fish are distributed from tidewater upstream. Bobber and eggs or shrimp fished in the deeper holes tends to produce the most fish. The river is low and clear. Try using smaller baits and lighter lines. Angling for trout has been fair to good.

Plans are in the works to construct a new boat slide at the Cedar Creek launch site. Construction is expected to begin sometime in early summer. Contact ODFW in Tillamook at 503-842-2741 for details.

WILSON RIVER: steelhead, chinook, cutthroat

A few summer steelhead and an occasional spring chinook are being caught. Angling for cutthroat trout has been fair early in the season. Fresh sea-runs won't begin entering the river until later in the summer. The river is very low and clear.

YAQUINA RIVER: cutthroat

Angling for cutthroat trout is open throughout the Yaquina Basin including tributaries. Trout fishing is expected to be good. Excellent opportunities also exist for harvest of crayfish.

NORTH COAST HUNTING

Don't forget to report your hunt results. Anyone who purchases a big game or turkey tag must report hunt results online or by phone. Reporting is required even if you did not fill your tag or go hunting. More information

NORTHWEST ZONE VIEWING

Brown pelicans

Brown pelicans have recently returned to the north coast after a winter hiatus. These large dark birds are a cousin to the much larger white pelican, which occurs inland in the state. The brown pelican, while plentiful locally in the summer, is still a federally- listed species, but considered a candidate for de-listing. Despite their odd looks and awkward style of fishing, these birds can glide gracefully across the ocean surface, seemingly only inches from the crests of waves.

Spring bird song

Now that summer is beginning, songbirds have been very apparent in the forest as you walk through them. Along with the usual year-round residents, such as robins, winter wrens and song sparrows, many of the neotropical migrants are here and nesting as well. Now and for the next couple of months, the woods will be filled with their various songs designed to declare and defend a nesting territory.

Astoria Area

The Twilight Eagle Sanctuary is located along the Columbia River at Wolf Bay east of Astoria just off Hwy 30. Taking the Burnside Road (well signed) will take you on a little-traveled loop to a viewing platform. The ADA accessible platform is an excellent place to view bald eagles, waterfowl, shorebirds and songbirds associated with the lower Columbia River estuary. Interpretive panels highlight the fauna of the area and the travels of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. Be sure to bring binoculars and/or a spotting scope for best viewing.

Jewel Meadows, Coast Range

Viewing is Excellent at Jewell Meadows Wildlife Area. Viewing opportunities for elk have been good with animals visible most days. Best times are in the mornings and evenings. As the spring progresses elk should start spending more time in the timbered areas especially on warm days. New antler growth is progressing on the bulls, with larger specimens beginning to show branching. Look for bulls on the Fishhawk tract adjacent to Hwy 202. New calves may soon be visible, having been born at the end of May. Please remember that areas posted as Wildlife Refuge are closed to public access.

Newport Area

The trail behind the Mark O. Hatfield Marine Science Center in Newport is a good place to observe shorebirds and waterfowl in the Yaquina estuary.

Tillamook Area

Cape Meares National Wildlife Refuge and State Park is full of bird activity these days. Common murres, puffins and pigeon guillemots are actively nesting and can be seen going to and from the rocks with great regularity. Black oystercatchers can be seen paired up and flying around the surf line, just below from the north viewing platform. The peregrine falcons should be nesting on their usual ledge, which is also visible from the north viewing platform. Early morning viewers might be able to witness a prey delivery by the adults. In addition to the lighthouse, which is open during the spring, summer and fall months, there are many great interpretive panels that showcase the rich diversity of bird life that can be seen there.

SOUTHWEST ZONE

FISHING

Weekend opportunities:

* June can be an excellent month to catch chinook on the Rogue.

* Anglers continue to catch spring chinook on the North Umpqua River in the Rock Creek area.

* Striped bass fishing on the Coquille River (near the town of Coquille) has been good.

APPLEGATE RESERVOIR: trout, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass

Trout fishing has been fair with worms and PowerBait. Trolling with wedding ring lures has been good in the mornings and evenings. Smallmouth bass fishing has been fair as well.

APPLEGATE RIVER: steelhead, rainbow trout

Anglers may retain up to two adipose fin-clipped rainbow trout per day, with an 8-inch minimum length. Cutthroat trout must be released unharmed, but provide a fun opportunity for catch and release angling.

Applegate River flows at Wilderville

ARIZONA POND: rainbow trout

Located approximately half way between Gold Beach and Port Orford, Arizona Pond is an excellent place to take kids trout fishing. ODFW stocks the lake regularly and anglers can expect good fishing .The best time to fish the pond is in the morning or evening when the fish are actively feeding. Flies, spinners, or a worm under a bobber all work really well. Angling is limited to youth 17 and under.

BEN IRVING RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, bass

Ben Irving Reservoir, west of Winston, has been stocked with 4,000 trout so far.

CHETCO RIVER: cutthroat trout

Cutthroat trout have been pretty active in the mornings feeding on insects and small fish. Anglers using a little stealth and looking for actively feeding fish are doing pretty good. Usually cutthroat will be near the surface of pools in the mornings then move to the head of pools and faster water during the day. The mornings or late evening are usually the best. Fly-fishing or tossing small spinners are regular producers.

Chetco River flows near Brookings

COOPER CREEK RESERVOIR: rainbow trout

Cooper Creek has been stocked with about 9,050 trout to date. About 50 of these were trophy trout.

COOS COUNTY LAKES: rainbow trout, warmwater fish

Powers Pond, Empire Lakes, Tenmile Lakes, and Eel Lake were all stocked earlier this month with legal-size trout. Still fishing with your bait near the bottom or under a bobber is an effective technique for catching trout. Another way to catch trout is by trolling a flasher or a worm.

Fishing for largemouth bass and bluegills in some of the area lakes is good. To catch bluegills use a piece of worm on a small hook or small jig under a bobber. For catching largemouth bass use jigs, plastic worms, crankbaits, or spinners. Concentrate your fishing near structure or weedlines to catch largemouth bass and bluegills.

COOS RIVER BASIN: trout, sturgeon, shad, rockfish, Dungeness crab, clamming

Trout fishing is open in Coos Bay and the rivers. Angling is restricted to artificial flies and lures in streams above tidewater.

A few sturgeon have been caught in the Coos River but overall fishing for sturgeon has been slow. There are new sturgeon regulations for 2009. See the 2009 Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations for the most current regulations.

There are a few shad in the South Fork Coos River but there are no reports of shad in the Millicoma River. Trolling shad darts is a good way to catch shad. Numbers of shad seem to be low again this year.

Fishing for rockfish in the lower Coos Bay estuary has been good. Fish near submerged rock piles for the best success and use sand shrimp or a jig and twister tail.

Harvest of bay clams was very good the past few days in Coos Bay. The strong negative tides this week are making for some great days of clamming. Harvest of empire/gaper clams has been good at the North Spit and Clam Island. Within Coos Bay, the best harvest areas are Empire/Charleston along Cape Arago Highway, and within Charleston, north and south of the Charleston Bridge. Butter, gaper, and cockle clams are abundant in these areas. If you have never dug razor clams in the Coos Bay area, this may be the time to make the effort. Harvest reports have come in from the North Spit, Bastendorf, and north of the Seven Devils Wayside beaches. Before any shellfish harvest trip, make sure to check the Oregon Department of Agriculture website for any recent shellfish closures at: http://oregon.gov/ODA/FSD/shellfish_status.shtml.

Recreational crab harvest has improved slightly for those with boats. Dungeness crabs have been molting their exoskeletons and any soft shelled crabs should be released back. Crab harvest at the Charleston and Empire docks remains slow, with catches of mostly red rock crab. The best time to crab is a few hours before high tide and the preferred baits to use are fish, chicken, or turkey legs.

COQUILLE RIVER BASIN: trout, sturgeon, shad, striped bass

Trout fishing is open in the Coquille estuary and rivers but fishing is slow. Angling is restricted to artificial flies and lures in streams above tidewater.

Sturgeon fishing has picked up slightly in the Coquille River but overall is slow. There are new sturgeon regulations for 2009. See the 2009 Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations for the most current regulations.

Striped bass fishing is good. A good place to fish for stripers is near the town of Coquille. The new minimum length limit on striped bass in freshwater is 24 inches.

DIAMOND LAKE: rainbow trout

Last year's fingerlings are now about 12 inches long, while other fish stocked last year are 16 to 22 inches long. The largest fish checked this year was six to seven pounds. Overall, fishing is fair to good. We anticipate nearly 140,000 catchable sized trout in the lake this year from the 200,000 fingerlings released in 2008 plus another 25,000 catchable fish leftover from last year's stocking. The road around the lake is now fully open. The boat ramps at the lodge, Diamond Lake Campground, and South Shore are all open. The recent storms and cold weather slowed fishing down a bit this past week. Call Diamond Lake Resort for up to date information (800) 733-7593 or check their fishing report online.

ELK/SIXES RIVER: cutthroat trout

Cutthroat trout fishing continues to be good on both rivers. Anglers will want to fish early morning or late evening for the best fishing. Small spinners or flies will work equally well.

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

Trout fishing has been fair, with most fish being taken on PowerBait and worms. Angling for bass and other warmwater fish has been good.

Anglers should be aware that a health advisory has been issued recommending limits on consumption of all fish from Emigrant except rainbow trout. Information on the Emigrant Reservoir advisory, along with general information on mercury and fish can be found on the DHS Web site.

EXPO POND: rainbow trout, largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill

Trout fishing has been fair, with worms, PowerBait and spinners all catching fish. Fishing for bass, bluegill and crappie has been good.

FISH LAKE: rainbow trout

Fishing for rainbow and brook trout has been good, with a number of larger fish being landed. With the water getting warmer, look for trout in the areas around the springs.

FLORAS LAKE: rainbow trout

The lake is located a few miles south of Langlois. Bank access is limited, but there is a boat ramp at Boice Cope County Park. Fly fishing or slow trolling wedding ring spinners can work really well. Anglers should keep an eye on the weather as it can be very windy.

GALESVILLE RESERVIOR: rainbow trout, bass

Galesville Reservoir is open to angling year-round. The reservoir was stocked in 2008 with about 55,000 adipose-clipped hatchery coho which are now about 13 inches. In Galesville Reservoir, all landlocked salmon are considered trout. Thus, there is a five per day trout limit, with only one trout over 20 inches in length allowed for harvest. The 2009 stocking season has begun and so far about 8,000 trout have been stocked. Angling from the bank and from a boat has been slow to fair for 11 to 13-inch coho. Anglers are reminded all bass between 12 and 15 inches must be released, and only one bass over 15 inches may be taken per day. Galesville now has a campground.

GARRISON LAKE: rainbow trout, cutthroat trout, bass

Fishing continues to be good for trout, but anglers will need to start fishing deeper as water temperatures climb. The best way to fish is by boat, but there is some bank access at the State Park or ODFW's access site on 12th street. Fly fishing or slow trolling wedding ring spinners are regular producers for trout. Anglers should keep an eye on the weather, as the lake can be very windy.

HERBERT'S POND: rainbow trout, warmwater 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 has very good bank access. Through March, the ODFW will occasionally recycle a hatchery steelhead into Herbert's Pond. These fish will be adipose marked and have an additional mark identifying it as a recycled steelhead. Only one of these fish can be harvested per day. The pond was stocked in March with 250 legal-sized trout and stocked again before Free Fishing Weekend (June 6-7).

HOWARD PRAIRIE RESERVOIR: trout, bass

Fishing has been fair for rainbow trout. Anglers have reported success while fishing with PowerBait and worms and while trolling with flashers and wedding ring lures. Fishing is good for largemouth and smallmouth bass.

HUNTER CREEK: cutthroat trout

A new fishery on upper Hunter Creek was opened this year to cutthroat fishing. All zone regulations apply and anglers are reminded that Hunter Creek is open only upstream of the confluence with the North Fork Hunter Creek. Fly-fishing or tossing small spinners should produce well for cutthroat up to 12 inches.

HYATT RESERVOIR: trout, bass

Fishing has been fair for rainbow trout, with some good-sized fish being landed. Hyatt Lake has an abundance of largemouth bass, and fishing for them has been excellent. Although small, they offer the opportunity to catch a lot of fish. This makes Hyatt Lake a good destination for beginning anglers.

ILLINOIS RIVER: trout

Resident trout are available for catch-and-release angling.

Illinois River flows at Kerby

LAIRD LAKE: rainbow trout

Located about 30 miles up Elk River, Laird Lake is an excellent place to catch a few trout. The lake is small and filled with lots of downed timber. Bank access is pretty good. Elk River Hatchery is located on the road to Laird and is good place to stop and take a quick tour.

LAKE MARIE: rainbow trout

Lake Marie is at Umpqua Lighthouse State Park near Winchester. About 3,500 trout have been stocked this year.

LAKE SELMAC: trout, largemouth bass, bluegill, and crappie

Trout fishing has been fair on worms and PowerBait. Casting and retrieving or trolling lures or flies has also been effective. Fishing for largemouth bass and panfish has been good. Bluegill and crappie can be caught by suspending a worm or jig under a bobber.

LEMOLO RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, brown trout

Fishing is moderate for brown trout with a few big ones landed in the last few weeks. The lake was stocked with 5,000 legal-sized trout and anglers have been catching rainbows from 10-12 inches. The resort and Poole Creek boat ramps are both open for launching boats.

This week, Lemolo #2 Forebay will be drained and fish will be moved to Lemolo Reservoir.

LOBSTER CREEK: trout

A new fishery on Lobster Creek was opened this year to trout fishing. Anglers are reminded to check the regulations before heading out. Special regulations apply to Lobster Creek, with only adipose clipped trout greater than 8 inches and under 16 inches legal to keep. Fly-fishing or tossing small spinners should produce well for trout.

LOON LAKE: rainbow trout, bass

Loon Lake was stocked with 8,000 trout so far in 2009.

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

Trout fishing has been fair. Boat anglers should try trolling a variety of depths with wedding ring lures, worms, or spinners, while bank anglers should do well using PowerBait. Angling for smallmouth bass has been fair. The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, working with several local bass angling clubs, recently transferred over 2,500 largemouth bass into Lost Creek Reservoir to enhance the lake's bass fishery. While it is legal to harvest these fish as part of the regular bass bag limit, anglers are encouraged to release the largemouth bass and to keep the abundant smallmouth bass if they wish to harvest bass.

Anglers should be aware that a public health advisory has been issued for Lost Creek Reservoir due to high levels of toxic algae. Updates and additional information can be obtained from the DHS Web site.

MEDCO POND: rainbow trout, bass, panfish

Trout fishing has been good. Fishing for largemouth bass and bluegill has been good as well. Fishing a worm just off the bottom, casting lures, and trolling have all been productive technique.

PACIFIC OCEAN AND BEACHES: bottomfish, coho salmon

When the ocean has been "calm" fishing for rockfish, greenling and lingcod has been good. Fishing for rockfish and greenling has been decent fishing from shore. Concentrate your fishing near rocky outcroppings and drop-offs. The daily bag limit for rockfish, greenling and cabezon will increase to seven fish in aggregate on May 1.

Fishing for adipose fin clipped coho opened this past weekend. Most anglers have been fishing in 30-50 fathoms with mixed results. The daily limit is three coho salmon with a healed adipose fin clip.

PLAT I RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, warmwater game fish

Bass fishing at Plat I is now open to harvest. The limit is 5 per day with only 3 over 15 inches per day. Plat I has been stocked with 4,500 trout to date.

POWERS POND: rainbow trout, warmwater fish

Legal-sized trout were stocked in Powers Pond earlier this month. Bluegill and crappie fishing has been good but is starting to slow down. Fish for bluegills and crappie in the southwest corner of the pond. Bluegills are biting almost all day long and crappies are biting best during the early morning and late evening. There is a lot of aquatic vegetation in the pond making it difficult to fish but suspend your bait two feet or less under a bobber. Best baits to use are small jigs or a piece of worm on a small hook.

REINHART POND: rainbow trout, warm water fish

Trout fishing has been fair. Anglers should try fishing with nightcrawlers or casting small spinners or spoons. Fishing for largemouth bass and bluegill has been good.

ROGUE RIVER, LOWER: spring chinook

Spring chinook are still being picked up in the lower Rogue, with some anglers reporting multiple fish days. June can be an excellent month to catch chinook on the Rogue. Anglers need to be on the water at first light for the best success.

Emergency regulations are in effect for the Rogue River and anglers are reminded to release all non-adiposed clipped (wild) chinook. Anglers can retain wild chinook jacks per zone regulations.

Rogue River flows

ROGUE RIVER, MIDDLE: chinook salmon, steelhead

Fishing for spring chinook from Grants Pass to Gold Ray Dam has been fair when the river temperatures are below 60oF. Back-bouncing bait and back-trolling sardine-wrapped plugs have been productive techniques. A few steelhead are being caught as well. The flow at Grants Pass on June 23 was 3,100 cubic feet per second and the water temperature was 59o F.

Emergency regulations are in effect for the Rogue River and anglers are reminded to release all non-adiposed clipped (wild) chinook. Anglers can retain wild chinook jacks per zone regulations.

ROGUE RIVER, UPPER: chinook salmon, steelhead

Angling for spring chinook thas been fair. As of June 17, 8,760 spring chinook and 198 summer steelhead have been counted at Gold Ray Dam. On June 23, the flow out of William Jess (Lost Creek) Dam was 2,800 cfs and the water temperature was 53oF. The flow at Gold Ray Dam, was 2,970 cfs. Anglers are reminded that only adipose fin-clipped chinook may be retained at this time.

Trout fishing has been good. Anglers should try using flies or small lures. Only adipose fin-clipped trout may be retained.

ROGUE RIVER, ABOVE LOST CREEK RESERVOIR: trout

The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife will stock legal-sized rainbow trout again this week at several locations in the Rogue River and some of its tributaries along Hwy 62 above Prospect. In addition to the stocked rainbow, brook trout and a few brown trout are available to anglers as well. Fishing has been good with worms, eggs, and wooly bugger flies.

SODA SPRINGS RESERVOIR: brown and rainbow trout

Soda Springs Reservoir and the tributaries upstream of Soda Springs are open to trout angling. There is no limit on brook trout taken in addition to catch limits for other trout. There have been some browns over 20 inches caught in the last few weeks and fishing is good.

SMITH RIVER: striped bass, trout, fall chinook, steelhead

Opens for adipose fin-clipped steelhead from mouth to Spencer Creek and North Fork from mouth upstream to Johnson Creek. Trout season also open. Check fishing regulations for bait and trout restrictions. Striped bass season is open year-round, two fish per 24 hours, 24-inch minimum size. The North Fork is open from mouth to Johnson Creek for stripers.

SOUTH COAST STREAMS: trout

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

TENMILE LAKES: largemouth bass, rainbow trout

Largemouth bass can still be found in shallow water and are hitting a variety of lures including jigs, crankbaits, and spinnerbaits.

Trout fishing has been good in Tenmile Lakes. The lakes were stocked earlier this month with legal-sized rainbow trout. The best way to catch these fish is by trolling a flasher or a worm. For those that like to fly-fish, there are lots of midges hatching in the morning and evenings at Tenmile Lakes along with a few big caddisflies. There are also a few holdover trout from last year's stocking in Tenmile Lakes. These holdover trout are averaging 17 inches. Best fishing is during the low light periods of the day.

TOKETEE LAKE: brown trout

Fishing is open in Toketee year-round, and the best fishing occurs early in the morning or late eventing on insect patterns. The lake has both good bank and boat access throughout.

UMPQUA ESTUARY: sturgeon, bass, chinook

Both sturgeon and striped bass fishing have been slow in the lower Umpqua. Crabbing has been slow to fair. Note change in measuring sturgeon on page 19 of the 2009 Angling Regulations booklet.

UMPQUA HIGH LAKES AND FOREBAYS: trout

Clearwater Forebay #2 has been stocked with 2,500 trout this year. Other high lakes such as Maidu, Bull Pup, Connie, Skookum, Calamut, Fuller, Wolf, Cliff, Buckeye, Linda, and Big Twin Lakes were stocked with brook trout in 2008. Many of these lakes are still inaccessible due to snow on roads.

UMPQUA RIVER MAINSTEM: steelhead, spring chinook, smallmouth bass

Umpqua Basin Note:

Due to high mortality of hatchery steelhead, smolt releases in 2007 were much lower than normal. Consequently, fewer hatchery steelhead will be returning to the Umpqua basin. Angling opportunity and catch rates throughout the basin will still be good due to the strong wild steelhead population, however only hatchery steelhead can be harvested.

Mainstem:

Most of the chinook fishing has moved upstream to the North Umpqua. Remember to release the smolts! Shad fishing has been reported as slow. Remember the main stem Umpqua is closed to wild steelhead harvest, but remains open year-round for adipose fin-clipped steelhead.

Umpqua River flows near Elkton

UMPQUA RIVER, NORTH: steelhead, chinook

Summer steelhead counts across Winchester Dam are 170 and over 5,800 spring chinook thru May 26. Fishing in the Rock Creek area for chinook is fair to good. Summer steelhead angling is slow. 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.

North Umpqua River water levels at Winchester Dam

UMPQUA RIVER, SOUTH: winter steelhead, smallmouth bass, trout

The South Umpqua is opened to trout and bass angling. In the Umpqua River basin, anglers can harvest 10 smallmouth bass per day of any size.

South Umpqua River water levels near Riddle

WILLOW LAKE: rainbow trout, largemouth bass, crappie, yellow perch, bullhead

Fishing for rainbow trout has been fair. Anglers should try using floating bait or worms. Casting or trolling lures or flies can also be effective. Fishing for bass and panfish should be good.

WINCHESTER BAY: sturgeon, coho, chinook

Fishing for sturgeon is slow. Note new sturgeon measuring method in the 2009 Angling Regulations. Crabbing has been slow to fair.

MOST RECREATIONAL SHELLFISH IS OPEN

The entire Oregon coast is open for recreational shellfishing. In addition, only the adductor muscle of scallops are safe to eat; consumption of whole scallops from the recreational fishery is not recommended.

Always check for health advisories by calling the Oregon Department of Agriculture's Shellfish line at 1-800-448-2474 for updates.

Razor clams and current status of particular areas

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

Clamming there are excelent negative tides for digging clams this week.

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

* Razor clams and current status of particular areas

* Bay clams

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

* Razor clams and current status of particular areas

* Bay clams

SOUTHWEST ZONE HUNTING

OPEN: Cougar (in some areas, see regulations) coyote

Don't forget to report your hunt results. Anyone who purchases a big game or turkey tag must report hunt results online or by phone. Reporting is required even if you did not fill your tag or go hunting. More information

DOUGLAS COUNTY

Cougar

The extended COUGAR season is currently open for central Douglas County. Hunters can expect an average year. Cougars are abundant throughout with indicators pointing to stable or increasing numbers. Hunting cougar is a challenge because these animals are very secretive, but harvest success is greatest adjacent to private land with high deer populations using a predator call. Don't forget to check-in if you are successful; see regulations for more information.

Coyote

Numbers are strong throughout Douglas County. Using predator calls to lure them in can be an effective method for harvesting coyotes. Try calling in early morning and late afternoon. Be sure to ask permission before hunting on private land.

COOS COUNTY

COYOTE populations are good in Coos County and they will respond to calls. However, calling coyotes on the coast range is challenging due to brush. Since specific license and tag requirements exist for hunting some of these animals new hunters should contact local ODFW offices to learn more about hunting these animals before they start.

COUGAR season closed on May 31 in many areas of the state. However there are some portions on Oregon with year around seasons. Check the Big Game Regulations to determine where those areas are. Cougar are abundant throughout with indicators pointing to stable or increasing numbers. Hunting cougar is a challenge because these animals are very secretive, but harvest success is greatest adjacent to private land with high deer populations using a predator call. Remember check-in is mandatory for successful hunters; please bring cougar in thawed and with mouth propped open for easier tissue sampling, teeth collection and tagging.

JACKSON, JOSEPHINE, CURRY COUNTIES

General COUGAR season closed May 31. Extended cougar season is now in effect; check Big Game regulations for area boundary. Cougar population appears to be stable to increasing. Due to the nature of cougars, hunters find it hard to locate cougars without locating prey animals and the use of predator calls. Locate major ridge lines where cougars travel looking for deer. Hunters are also 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.

COYOTES are abundant in our area. Spring is calf and lambing season; ranchers will have concerns with coyotes, hunters should contact ranchers for permission to hunt on private lands. Hunters will have great response to calling. Focus on areas of known prey base and use calls based on that.

WESTERN GRAY SQUIRREL is now open only in a portion of the Rogue unit; refer to regulations for more detail. It is open there year-round with no bag limit.

SOUTHWEST ZONE VIEWING

EVENT

Elk viewing

It's the time of the year for elk calf viewing at Dean Creek Elk Viewing Area just west of Reedsport on Highway 38.

The Dean Creek Elk Viewing Area and the O.H. Hinsdale Interpretive Center are popular tourist stops along Hwy. 38 near Reedsport. Visitors are treated to up-close views of Roosevelt elk, with the herd sometimes reaching as many as 120 elk. Mountains, meadows and marshes also are home to beaver, muskrat, mallards, Canada geese and great blue heron. For more information.

Coos County

In Coos Bay and on the lower Coquille River, sea ducks like surf scoters and black scoters are present. These birds can be fun to watch as they dive along the shore line for mollusks that they feed on. Also, loons and several species of grebes are present for viewing. Point Adams, located near the Charleston boat basin is a good place to see these birds and others that are moving in and out of South Slough.

Bears are becoming very active as the days lengthen and weather warms. Viewers should watch clearcuts and natural forest openings during the last few hours and the first few hours of the day. Bears will be attracted to green grass, areas with boulders they can roll over to find grubs and brushy areas where they can feed on the growing tips of branches.

Soon other big game animals like elk and deer will become more illusive as calving and fawning season is close. While mothers of these newborns go to great lengths to keep their babies hidden for the first few weeks after birth, they will bring them out in the open later in June.

Now is the time for bird watchers to dust off their binocular lenses because many migratory passerines and other birds are showing up in the county in numbers. People maintaining bird feeders are reporting seeing many new species for the year. Some of these birds will visit bird feeders for the next few months and disappear again as fall approaches.

Douglas County

Deer

Fawns are being seen in our area so keep in mind that almost all fawns are not abandoned. Please do not pickup or move the fawns since the doe is probably foraging in the vicinity. Contact the local ODFW office or reference the ODFW website if you have fawn questions.

Gamebirds

The young chicks of California quail, blue and ruffed grouse, wild turkey and pheasants are now being seen throughout the county. Coveys of California quail are common on the Umpqua Valley floor usually associated with blackberry cover and water. Many blue and ruffed grouse and their young are found in mid to high elevation forested areas in our local mountains. Wild turkeys and their poults are very common throughout the Umpqua Valley usually on private lands in oak savannah habitat. Most pheasants are found in central Douglas County associated with pastures and ranches.

Turtles

Female turtles are leaving their water body and heading to upland nesting areas, usually within 1 mile of the water, to lay their eggs. When driving on roads next to rivers and streams keep an eye out for turtles crossing the road to avoid injuring the turtles.

Peregrine Falcons

Peregrine falcons chicks are fledging (leaving their nests) not just in Portland's bridges but also in Douglas County off ledges on cliff faces in the Cascades and Coast mountain ranges.

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.

Jackson, Josephine, and Curry counties

Denman Wildlife Area

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

Many people are visiting the area for fishing opportunities-bass, blue gills and bull head cat fish are being caught. Carp are seen in the shallows spawning during early mornings at this time of the year.

Directions to the Ken Denman Wildlife Area: 1495 E. Gregory Road, Central Point

(541) 826-8774

From I-5: Take exit 33 at Central Point. Travel east on Pine Street to Table Rock Road. Turn left (north) on Table Rock Road to E. Gregory Road. Turn left at the wildlife area headquarters sign.

From Hwy. 62: Turn onto Agate Road. Take the first left (E. Gregory Road). Proceed one mile to the wildlife area. For more information about the wildlife area, visit ODFW's Web site.

CENTRAL ZONE

FISHING

Weekend fishing opportunities:

* Clear Lake and Rock Creek Reservoir have been stocked recently, and both offer good opportunity to catch a limit of trout.

* Anglers are reporting some mint bright summer steelhead in the Hood River. Now is a great time to fish for them before hot weather increases glacial melt.

BIG LAVA LAKE: rainbow trout

Anglers are having fair to good success. Big Lava is a great place to catch nice rainbow trout ranging from 12 to 20 inches in length.

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

Please note that Crane Prairie Reservoir currently has standing Department of Human Services blue green algae advisory in place. Please go to http://oregon.gov/DHS/ph/envtox/maadvisories.shtm for current information on this matter.

Anglers have been having success catching nice rainbow trout along with a few brook trout. Crane provides great opportunity for top-of-the-line brook trout and anglers are strongly encouraged to try their hand at angling for them. Fish brook trout at dawn and dusk. Small spinners or spoons are often quite effective as are both wet and dry flies. Worms also work well. Anglers after the big brook trout should cast their fly, lure or bait close to cover such as submerged logs or undercut banks. Once you hook your brook trout head for open water as they're notorious for tangling your line around logs and rocks.

Please note new angling regulation specifying the daily trout bag may only include one non-fin-clipped rainbow trout per day. Crane is a great place to catch larger rainbow trout, though the novice angler will require patience.

CLEAR LAKE: rainbow trout

Clear Lake is now open and has just been stocked with lots of fish and should be a great opportunity to catch a limit.

CRESCENT LAKE: rainbow trout, brown trout, lake trout and kokanee

Anglers continue to have mixed success catching kokanee and brown trout.

CROOKED RIVER BELOW BOWMAN DAM: redband trout and mountain whitefish

Fishing has been excellent and anglers are encouraged to hit the river before next week. ODFW will conduct its annual population assessment from June 22nd through June 26th between Big Bend campground and Cobble Rock campground, and between Lower Palisades campground and Greenwood campground. Fishing is likely to be affected between these campgrounds for approximately one week, but will be unaffected outside of these areas.

All anglers should visit informational kiosks located in the BLM campgrounds in the Wild and Scenic portion of the river where a flier has been posted to assist anglers in collecting valuable information. ODFW and OSU initiated a radio telemetry study on redband trout and whitefish in the fall of 2007. ODFW and OSU deployed new radio-tags in early October in fish caught by dedicated volunteer anglers from the Central Oregon Fly Fishers, Sunriver Anglers, ODFW, and OSU. Anglers are reminded that radio-tagged fish cannot be legally harvested. To determine if a fish is radio-tagged, anglers should check for an eight-inch wire antenna protruding from the rear of both redband and mountain whitefish. A sample of redband trout and mountain whitefish are also tagged with a numbered floy tag protruding from the back. Anglers who later catch a trout or whitefish with a floy tag are encouraged to release the fish after recording the tag number, fish length and location caught. Anglers can send the information to ODFW at (541) 447-5111 ext. 24 or michael.r.harrington@state.or.us.

CULTUS LAKE: lake trout, rainbow trout

No angler reports though the fishing should be good for lake trout.

DAVIS LAKE: rainbow trout, largemouth bass

No recent angler reports. Remember Davis is a fly angling lake only.

DESCHUTES RIVER: steelhead, rainbow trout

Mouth to Warm Springs: steelhead, trout

Anglers on the lower Deschutes are patiently waiting the arrival of summer steelhead. While some bright fish have been reported, but fish will not likely be showing up until mid-July. Until then, the river is still fishing well for rainbow trout from Maupin upstream to Warm Springs.

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

No recent reports. The flows are now well-suited for fishing. This reach of the Deschutes provides good spring angling opportunity for brown trout and redband trout.

Benham Falls to Wickiup Reservoir: brown trout, rainbow trout

No reports from the past weekend.

Wickiup Reservoir to Crane Prairie Reservoir: rainbow trout, brown trout

No reports from the past weekend.

Crane Prairie Reservoir to Little Lava Lake: rainbow trout, brook trout

Angler success has been fair.

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

Reports of fair success.

ELK LAKE: kokanee, brook trout

No recent reports.

FALL RIVER: rainbow trout

Recent reports from a couple of experienced angler types indicate that the angling has been slow fair with a few nice fish being caught. Despite the warmer temperatures and increased insect hatches it appears that nymphing is still the most productive method for catching fish. River water temperatures are generally in the 38 to 40 degrees Fahrenheit range. This is a popular spring fishery for fly-fishers.

FROG LAKE:

Frog Lake is cleared of snow and should offer good opportunity to catch lots of nice rainbow trout.

HAYSTACK RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, brown trout

All fishing has been consistent.

HOOD RIVER: summer steelhead, winter steelhead

Anglers are reporting quite a few mint bright summer steelhead in the Hood River. These fish are so strong and fast you'll worry your gear isn't strong enough. Fishing should remain good until the glaciers begin melting when the hot weather comes.

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

HOSMER LAKE: Atlantic salmon, brook trout

No angler reports.

KINGSLEY RESERVOIR: rainbow trout

Kingsley has been recently stocked and should offer good opportunity for legal and trophy-sized trout.

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

Bass fishing has picked up extensively over the past few weeks. Kokanee bag limit is five fish per day, included in the trout daily bag limit. Anglers should consult 2009 Sport Fishing Regulations for new angling regulations on Lake Billy Chinook.

LAURANCE LAKE RESERVOIR: rainbow trout

Laurance Lake has been recently stocked and should offer good opportunity for legal and trophy-sized trout. Anglers have reported excellent early season success.

LITTLE LAVA LAKE: rainbow trout, brook trout

Little Lava Lake anglers indicated the bite has been fair.

METOLIUS RIVER: redband trout, bull trout

Some recent reports of fair success. The warmer temperatures continue to make for good hatches.

NORTH TWIN: rainbow trout

Fishing is reported to be fair. Good beaches, good wind protection and good numbers of stocked rainbow trout are North Twin positives.

OCHOCO CREEK UPSTREAM TO OCHOCO DAM: rainbow trout

Bait fishing is now allowed. Five trout per day, 8-inch minimum length.

OCHOCO RESERVOIR: rainbow trout

Anglers continue to report occasional catches of large fish.

ODELL LAKE: kokanee, rainbow trout, lake trout

The fishing at Odell has been fair. Please note that all bull trout must be released unharmed.

PAULINA LAKE: Brown trout, kokanee, rainbow trout

Aanglers are reporting fair success for brown trout and kokanee.

PINE HOLLOW RESERVOIR: rainbow trout

Pine Hollow has been recently stocked and should provide good opportunity to catch various sizes of trout, including some large trout.

PRINEVILLE RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, black crappie, bass

Fishing for warmwater species has been consistent. Anglers should note an error in the 2009 fishing regulations for Prineville Reservoir (p. 63). The CORRECT regulation is: largemouth and smallmouth bass, 15 in. MAXIMUM length, only one of which may be a largemouth.

ROCK CREEK RESERVOIR: rainbow trout

Rock Creek has been recently stocked with trout and should provide good opportunity to catch a limit of trout. As the summer progresses low water may impede good fishing.

SOUTH TWIN: rainbow trout

South Twin anglers are reporting fair catches of rainbow trout. South Twin provides plenty of opportunity for rainbow trout, great wind protected shoreline and good beach-like shoreline for the kids to run around on when they're tired of catching fish. A great family lake.

SUTTLE LAKE: brown trout, kokanee

No angler reports, though the lake should provide good opportunity for anglers interested in chasing kokanee or brown trout.

TAYLOR LAKE: rainbow trout

Taylor Lake has been recently stocked with trout and should provide good opportunity to catch a fat trout. Taylor Lake is also a great spot to catch carp with flies, look for carp in the shallows as water temperatures warm with spring temperatures.

WALTON LAKE: rainbow trout

Fishing is good.

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

Anglers are having fair success catching brown trout and limited numbers of kokanee. The kokanee are in great condition with a few fish ranging up to 16 inches in length. Anglers are encouraged to work the shallows for browns and rainbow during the early morning hours and hours just before dusk.

CENTRAL ZONE HUNTING

Don't forget to report your hunt results. Anyone who purchases a big game or turkey tag must report hunt results online or by phone. Reporting is required even if you did not fill your tag or go hunting. More information

PRINEVILLE/OCHOCO WILDLIFE DISTRICT