Posted: Friday, November 28, 2008 12:00 am
The Oregon Recreation report (fishing, hunting, viewing), updated Tuesday, Nov. 25
Winter steelhead arrive for Thanksgiving weekend fishing
The first winter steelhead are arriving in some rivers in the Northwest Zone. Numbers are still low and will be increasing in the next few weeks, but for the angler who likes to kick off the winter steelhead season on Thanksgiving weekend there are fish to be had. Anglers should concentrate on lower reaches of the larger rivers, and cover lots of water for best success. Check the Northwest Zone report for detailed river information.
The recent stocking of adult steelhead in Junction City Pond provides a unique opportunity to a young or novice angler to hook into one of these hard-fighting fish.
Take a holiday drive: Elk viewing is good at Dean Creek
Large numbers of elk are showing up in the fields of Dean Creek right now. Although the rut is over, elk bulls are still very visible. The Dean Creek Elk Viewing Area and the O.H. Hinsdale Interpretive Center are popular tourist stops along Hwy. 38 near Reedsport. Mountains, meadows and marshes also are home to beaver, muskrat, mallards, Canada geese and great blue heron. For more information.
Make wild turkey hunting your Thanksgiving tradition
General season turkey hunting is underway in 10 westside counties and there are about 500 tags left for sale on a first-come, first-serve basis. Either sex can be taken during the fall season, which goes through Dec. 31. See here for more information.
Eastside bear and grouse hunting close; duck hunters take break
Just a reminder that forest grouse and bear hunting close Nov. 30 in eastern Oregon while duck hunters in Zone 2 (much of eastern Oregon) take a break Dec. 1-2.
Mandatory hunter harvest reporting
Whether or not you filled your tag, don't forget to report the results of your hunt online or by calling 1-866-947-ODFW (6339). Reporting is now mandatory for every big game and fall turkey tag purchased except bighorn sheep and Rocky Mtn goat. Thank you for your cooperation.
Your hunting and fishing dollars at work
Columbian White-Tailed Deer trap and transplant project
License dollars and contributions from other organizations have reintroduced the white-tails to their historic range and offered hunting opportunities. More information
WILLAMETTE ZONE
FISHING
Note: The 2009 Sport Fishing Regulations have been printed and are now available at all ODFW offices and retail outlets. Pick up a copy today!
Weekend fishing opportunities:
* Winter steelhead are starting to show up in the Clackamas River.
* Sturgeon fishing is showing modest improvement on the lower Willamette River and Multnomah Channel as fish move from the Columbia.
* Additional clipped-fin steelhead were released in Junction City Pond and will provide anglers with easy access to 7-15 pound fish over the Thanksgiving holiday.
* Sturgeon angling has been fair in most sections of the lower Willamette and Multnomah Channel.
EVENTS
Nov. 27 n Thanksgiving
Dec. 4 n Oregon Hunters Association Portland Chapter Christmas dinner and canned food drive, 503-260-6363.
Dec. 5 n Story and stroll at Tryon Creek, 1-2 p.m., 11321 SW Terwilliger Blvd., Portland, sponsored by Tryon Creek State Natural Area. Free. Geared toward families with children ages 3-6. Call 503-0636-9886, ext. 225.
Dec. 6 n Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge walking tour, noon to 3 p.m., sponsored by the Audubon Society of Portland. Oaks Bottom was Portland's first wildlife refuge and is a federally recognized waterfowl refuge. Call 503-292-6855, ext. 116 to register or obtain more information.
Dec. 6 n Guided nature hike, Tryon Creek State Natural Area, 11321 SW Terwilliger Blvd., Portland. Call 503-636-9886 ext. 225.
Dec. 7 n Willamette Cove/North Portland Greenway Walk, 10 a.m. to noon, sponsored by the Audubon Society of Portland. Call 503-292-6855, ext. 116 to register and for more information.
Dec. 7 n Lunch with the birds at Jackson Bottom Wetlands Preserve, noon to 1 p.m. Learn how to identify waterfowl and other birds. Spotting scopes, binoculars field guides provided. 2600 SW Hillsboro Highway, Hillsboro. Call 503-681-6279.
STOCKING SCHEDULE
Tagged clipped-fin steelhead will be released in Junction City Pond.
Walling Pond was recently stocked with 400 legal-sized trout and 50 jumbo trout.
Walter Wirth Pond was recently stocked with 1,300 legal-sized trout and 150 larger trout.
With a few exceptions, the trout stocking program is over for the year and the limited schedule will continue until spring.
WARM WATER ANGLING:
Warmwater fishing is slowing down at most locations in the Willamette Zone as water temperatures drop into the low 50s. Some smallmouth bass are still being caught in the Willamette River by anglers who are willing to brave colder weather while landing fewer fish. Drifting bait on the bottom is one popular technique among warmwater holdouts as is casting jigs around bridge abutments and pilings. A few crappie and bluegill are still being caught at Hagg Lake and in Portland Harbor downstream from the Fremont Bridge.
CLACKAMAS RIVER: steehead
Several unconfirmed reports indicate that winter steelhead have moved well up into the river with a few being hooked. Steelhead fishing usually gets going around Thanksgiving and the calendar says that should be now. Portland General Electric reported the first few early wild winter steelhead were passed above North Fork Dam over the last two weeks. Good numbers of early wild fish can be a good indicator of what is to come later when the peak of the run comes in around mid-March.
Coho season on the Clackamas ended effective Nov. 1.
Now that the weather has settled down the river is looking very good for fall angling. Monday readings for the Clackamas showed flows at 1,630 cfs (11.74') with a water temperature near 50°. The river forecast is for the water to hold at these flows for the foreseeable future.
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.
DETROIT, GREEN PETER AND FOSTER RESERVOIRS: rainbow trout, chinook salmon
Boats currently cannot access Foster Reservoir due to lowered lake elevations associated with ongoing emergency spillway gate repairs at Foster Dam. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers expects that the current lake levels will need to be maintained through mid January. Flows in the South Santiam below Foster will be higher than normal this winter as a result of this situation. Additional information can be obtained at the following website:https://www.nwp.usace.army.mil/op/v/foswinterops.asp
Green Peter Reservoir is currently accessible to boats via the Thistle Creek ramp.
EAGLE CREEK: coho
Effective Sept. 17, a temporary rule increased the daily bag limit for coho salmon on the Eagle Creek to three adipose fin-clipped coho. The rule will be in effect until the close of the coho fishery at the end of November.
Coho angling effort on the creek was nearly non-existent this past week. The flows and color are great but the run is nearing the end as November comes to a close. This coming weekend will be the final days of coho retention on the creek. It closes for coho angling effective Dec 1. However, right behind the coho run anglers can anticipate the beginning of the winter steelhead season. The creek usually provides for good steelhead fishing that should last well into the winter months. Success can be had with fresh sand shrimp or a simple corkie and yarn.
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.
EE WILSON POND: closed
JUNCTION CITY POND: rainbow trout, steelhead
More clipped-fin steelhead captured at the Leaburg hatchery are being released in the pond this week, creating a good Thanksgiving holiday angling opportunity, especially for those with youngsters who want to venture out to this popular fishing hole. This week's release brings to 150 the number of McKenzie River steelhead planted in Junction City Pond this month. Of the total, approximately 25 have been caught. Casting with spinners or spoons has proven an effective strategy for these fish. All of the steelhead are tagged, and anglers who catch one of these fish are asked to call the hatchery to report the tag number, date caught and condition of the fish. For more information, contact Leaburg hatchery at 541-896-3294. Junction City Pond is located on the west side of Hwy. 99, three miles south of Junction City.
MCKENZIE RIVER: steelhead, catch-and-release trout
A few steelhead are still available on the Mckenzie.
MOLALLA RIVER: steelhead
Early winter steelhead continue to move over Willamette Falls, but numbers are limited with 77 passing to date and we would not expect decent numbers of fish to begin moving over the falls until mid-December. Anglers reported good success on the Molalla in January and February. The Molalla should a great place to take advantage of excellent catch and release opportunities for wild winter steelhead this coming winter.
NORTH AND SOUTH SANTIAM: steelhead
Steelhead recycling in the North Santiam at the Minto trap has been discontinued for the season. Prospects should still be fair, however, in the Packsaddle and Minto areas. Summer steelhead recycling in the South Santiam from the Foster Dam trap has also been discontinued for the season. Anglers can receive recorded updates on Foster trap counts and recycling activities by calling 541-367-3437.
SANDY RIVER: steelhead
Salmon season on the Sandy River closed effective Nov. 1.
The Sandy winter steelhead are now a later returning stock than anglers were used to a few years ago. This is a result of the wild brood stock program initiated under the current Sandy River fish management plan.
Main stem Sandy River water levels dropped substantially after the heavy rains subsided. The river was still somewhat silted up over the weekend. Monday's readings showed flows down to 1,270 cfs (8.95') with the water temperature holding near 48°.
Anglers can access the river from many parks including Lewis and Clark, Dabney, Oxbow, and Dodge. Bank access is also available to the Cedar Creek area at the Sandy Hatchery. When fishing the Oxbow Park area, remember that there is no angling from a floating device upstream from a point that is 200 feet below the Oxbow Park boat ramp.
Collection/recycling receptacles for discarded or lost fishing gear can now be found along the Sandy River. Look for them near boat ramps at Lewis and Clark, Dabney, Oxbow, and Dodge parks. Any tangled fishing line or old gear can be collected and disposed of in these canisters as an effort to maintain a healthy, clean Sandy River. Littering has become a big problem on the Sandy below Cedar Creek. In other areas along the Sandy this has been cited as the rationale for restrictions on access. Please use nearby garbage cans for any other types of trash.
WALLING POND: recently stocked with 400 legal-sized trout and 50 jumbo trout.
WALTER WIRTH POND: recently stocked with 1,300 legal-sized trout and 150 larger trout.
WILLAMETTE RIVER: sturgeon, steelhead, warmwater species
Through Nov. 20, 6,978 coho (4,023 adults and 2,955 jacks) have passed over Willamette Falls. The large number of jacks bodes well for coho returns next fall. Early winter steelhead continue to move over the falls, but numbers are limited (119 to date) and we would not expect decent numbers of fish to begin moving over the falls until mid-December but you may want to start planning your trip to take advantage of excellent catch and release opportunities for wild winter steelhead in the Molalla and Santiam rivers this coming winter.
Early hatchery winter steelhead returning to Eagle Creek Hatchery on the Clackamas as well as early wild winter steelhead can provide good opportunity in the Willamette between the mouth of the Clackamas and Meldrum Bar. Fish will tend to hold in this area as they wait for cues to move into tributaries or above Willamette Falls. Low river flows or cold snaps will tend to slow fish down and the big water of the Willamette can provide some intriguing opportunities early in the year.
The Nov. 24 conditions showed Willamette flows dropping to 20,800 cfs with a temperature of 48° and the visibility up to 4.5 ft.
The sturgeon angling effort and catch was on the increase last week in the lower Willamette. From the lower Portland Harbor near St. Johns up through the Milwaukie/Oregon City area both keepers and sublegal sturgeon have been seen in the catch. Checks at the St. Johns boat ramp showed several legal white sturgeon caught.
Bank fishing for sturgeon can be found at Meldrum Bar, at the wall in downtown Oregon City and at Kelly Point on the St. Johns peninsula. Sturgeon anglers have been using frozen smelt, shad, herring and anchovies as effective bait.
Sturgeon anglers must remember that retention of white sturgeon is allowed four days per week on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday through Dec. 31, 2008. This regulation applies to the lower Willamette below Willamette Falls and includes Multnomah Channel. Also, sturgeon landed in the Willamette must be from 42 to 60 inches in length to be retained.
The Willamette provides an excellent warm water fishery in the summer and early fall months. You can expect to find an abundance of bass, crappie, and bluegill available. Target the rocky outcroppings, structures, or old pilings. Casting a variety of plugs or jigs near the shoreline can be successful. A simple bobber and night crawler might prove to be the right choice also. The local tackle shops can set you up with the right gear and direct you to the best spots. Lately, warm water anglers have reported catching primarily smallmouth bass at depths of 30 to 40 feet.
HIGH LAKES:
There are many mountain lakes available in the area for day use or overnight camping that require only a short hike in to them. The remoteness of the lake will usually dictate the degree of difficulty of the hike. Be prepared for cold nights as the fall season arrives. It is now the season when low elevation snowfall can occur without much warning. The high lakes have been aerial stocked and provide an angling experience unlike the more crowded, close-in waters. Bank fishing or float-tubes are the way to fish on these small mountain lakes, with the greatest chances for success likely to be found by fishing in mornings and evenings. Please be aware of current campfire rules as you head into the mountain lakes. Of course always pack out what you pack in. Maps should be available at the local U.S. Forest Service office. Check the Willamette stocking schedules for a list of high lakes that are stocked by ODFW.
WILLAMETTE ZONE HUNTING
OPEN: Coast bull elk (2nd season Nov. 22-28), black bear, cougar, fall turkey, waterfowl (see regulations), pheasant, forest grouse, California and mountain quail, crow
Visit the Region's Fall Hunting Forecast
Remember to check with Ore. Dept. of Forestry, the Forest Service, BLM or other land managers about fire restrictions before going hunting; restrictions can change suddenly.
Second season Coast bull ELK centerfire rifle hunters will need to locate the smaller, scattered herds of elk to have the best chance for success. Hunters should look into areas with heavy cover that elk feel secure in during the day such as deep brushy canyons or older clear cuts with heavy tree cover (aka: reprod patches). Hunters can take stands around these reprod patches in the late afternoon in the hopes of catching elk leaving for their evening foraging or team up with other hunters to conduct drives that will push elk out. Which ever technique that you use, try to locate the most frequently used trails to increase your odds of seeing elk.
Remember, spike only elk may be harvested in the Wilson, Trask and Siuslaw units.
COUGAR hunting should be improving in the Cascade Mountains as snow in the higher elevations start to concentrate deer and elk populations and hunters should be in the mountains after the next storm to have the best tracking conditions. Hunters don't necessarily need to locate cougar tracks to be in the right location, but it definitely improves your odds, just keep your eyes open for lots of deer sign near the snow line and concentrate your efforts in the area. Hunters can try their luck at tracking or can set up and use a predator call. Hunt with a partner if you use this technique and be prepared because cougar can respond quickly. Find your shooting lanes and set up accordingly before you start your first series of calls. Cougar hunting will continue to be erratic in the Coast Range until bull elk rifle seasons have ended and the number of hunters out in the woods decline. Predator calling seems to be the most successful technique in the coastal forests. Set up with good shooting lanes and call longer, up to an hour, in these heavy forested areas to ensure that any local cougar will hear your call. In the South Willamette Watershed cougars can be found throughout the area with the exception of the Willamette Valley Floor. Remember cougars must be checked in at an ODFW office within 10 days of harvest.
The general fall BLACK BEAR season is open but the check-in of harvested black bears has decreased significantly since late October. Most food sources have disappeared and bears are spending less time wandering the woods. A hunter's best option for success will be to locate the few late season apple trees that still have fruit. Bears will continue to be attracted to these sites so if you know of one of these or any other late season bear food source get out there now. Predator calling is still an option for hunters wanting to be more mobile and explore new areas. Bears tend to respond best when hunters use a constant calling strategy. It can take a long time for a bear to respond to a predator call and hunters are advised to spend up to an hour at each calling location. Hunters are also advised to hunt with a partner when using predator calls. These are large animals that are expecting a meal when they arrive, so use caution.
Hunters are now required to check-in the skulls of any bears harvested. Notify your local district ODFW office to set up an appointment to ensure that can complete the check-in within the required 10 day period. Make sure the skull of bear is thawed before you bring it in.
General archery DEER reopens for the late season in the Santiam, McKenzie, Willamette, Stott Mtn, Alsea, Siuslaw, and the northern portions of the Indigo units Nov. 22. See the Big Game Regulations for details. Deer continue to be active as the weather cools and despite the decrease in rutting activity. Biologists are seeing some bucks still out looking for receptive does which will keep them moving around the woods, making them vulnerable to hunters who have positioned their tree stands or ground blinds along well-used trails. Rattling antlers and/or using grunt tube calls will continue to be effective for hunters. Hunter's shouldn't rattle or call too aggressively this time of year.
General archery ELK reopens on Nov. 29 for the late antlerless season in the Alsea, Stott Mtn, McKenzie, northern portions of the Indigo and portions of the southwest Santiam units. Refer to the 2008 Big Game Regulations for details regarding the open area. This time of year elk are generally found transitioning between their summer range and winter range. Most elk will spend the majority of their time in thicker hiding cover adjacent to forage areas.
GROUSE, PHEASANT, and QUAIL hunting has been slow and hunters are shifting their efforts to other outdoor recreational activities. For those hunters not wanting to put away their scattergun, covering large amounts of preferred habitat to find scattered birds will be the key to their success. A well-trained dog will greatly improve your odds in locating and flushing birds. ODFW biologists need hunters' help to collect grouse and mountain quail wings and tails to help determine the health of these populations; see page 40 in the 2008-09 Oregon Game Bird Regulations.
WATERFOWL hunters have been experiencing some good hunting in the Willamette Valley as weather conditions worsen and more birds arrive from the north. The weather will still play a role in hunter success at this time of the season but good decoy sets and calling skills start to improve a hunter's odds of success. If birds are flaring from your decoy spread, get out there and take a look to determine if you have the proper camouflage and blind set-up. Experiment with your calling, sometimes too much calling can be the trouble. Don't get stuck in a rut, try new things.
GOOSE numbers continue to increase in the northern end of the Willamette Valley and large flocks of Canada geese can now be seen in most grass fields. To minimize the chances of decoying Dusky Canada geese, set up your decoys in the larger open fields where Cackling and Taverner Canada geese feel more secure. Hunters are reminded that there are special regulations that apply to goose hunting in northwest Oregon. Read the regulations on page 18-20 of the 2008-09 Game Bird Regulations before you hunt geese in this area. Remember to ask permission to hunt before entering private lands.
Furbearer trappers and hunters should be getting their equipment ready for the ongoing/upcoming season. Gray Fox, Red Fox, Marten, Muskrat, Mink, Raccoon, River Otter and Beaver trapping and/or hunting is currently open. Trappers are reminded that waters within the exterior boundaries of the Mt. Hood National Forest in closed to beaver trapping (see page 2 of the Oregon Furbearer Trapping and Hunting Regulations). Furbearer hunters can use a variety of sounds from their mouth or electronic predator calls to lure fox and raccoon out into the open. Remember to keep the volume low when you start to avoid scaring any animals near your stand, then increase the volume.
EE WILSON WILDLIFE AREA
Last week 116 hunters harvested 102 rabbits and 2 quail on Wildlife Area. Rabbit hunting continues to be very productive. Hunters with beagles tend to do the best while rabbit hunting. Walking the brush lines and beating the brush with a stock can also prove effective, as can wading through brush (with thick pants). Rabbit hunting is restricted to shotguns and archery. Hunters using shotguns are reminded that only federally approved nontoxic shot is allowed. Rabbit season at EE Wilson is open to anybody who possesses a valid hunting license. Hunters 17 years old and younger must also possess a valid hunter safety certificate.
The Wildlife Area will host a youth rabbit hunt Feb. 21-22, 2009 for youths 17 and under who are accompanied by an adult. A special rabbit hunt for disabled hunters will take place Feb. 7, 2009. Members of the Mary's Peak Hound Club will have dogs and dog handlers available to assist hunters. Pre-registration is requested with a maximum number of hunters limited to 50.
Duck hunting success has not increased much as the rains have not inundated ponds yet.
For more information, call the Wildlife Area at 541-745-5334. EE Wilson Wildlife Area is located approximately 10 miles north of Corvallis on Hwy. 99W. The address is 29555 Camp Adair Road, Monmouth, OR 97361.
The Wildlife Area pond is now closed to fishing.
FERN RIDGE WILDLIFE AREA
The majority of Fern Ridge Lake and Wildlife Area are currently open to hunting according to the regulations outlined below. Please consult the 2008-09 Game Bird Regulations for unit specific details.
During duck season, the entire lake area and most units of the wildlife area remain open to hunting daily.
Fern Ridge WA waterfowl statistics (Current season statistics will be posted weekly after the reservation waterfowl hunt begins Nov. 15.)
Final work has been completed to prepare for the reservation waterfowl hunt that began Nov. 15. Fifteen hunting blinds have been camouflaged, trail markers installed, and relevant forms and maps have been prepared. Hunts will be held each Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday through Jan. 24, 2009.
Hunters are reminded that the entire Fern Ridge Lake and Wildlife Area are closed to goose hunting. Concurrent with duck season dates, there are seasonal access restrictions in effect for five units. The Fisher Butte and Royal Amazon units remain open 7-days/week with hunting ending at 1 p.m. each day. A free daily self-service hunt permit is required. These two units are closed to public access at 2 p.m. each day to provide daily periods of waterfowl sanctuary. The East and West Coyote units are currently closed to all public access to provide waterfowl sanctuary prior to the start of the reservation waterfowl hunt on Nov. 15. Hunters can check on their success in the reservation hunt drawing by visiting this web site or by calling the Controlled Hunt Information Line at 1-800-708-1782. Successful hunters are reminded that they must purchase their reservation hunt permit at a point-of-sale hunting license vendor before arriving for their hunt. Permits are not available at the wildlife area checkstation.
The eastern portion of the Kirk Park unit is open 3-days/week during duck season, with all-day hunting allowed on a Sat/Sun/Wed and holiday schedule. Hunters are encouraged to carefully read posted regulation signs and the printed game bird hunting regulations before entering the wildlife area. For questions or to obtain a map, contact the Wildlife Area at 541-935-2591.
SAUVIE ISLAND WILDLIFE AREA
The hunter success rate on Sauvie Island improved slightly to 2.1 birds per hunter. A total of 410 hunters harvested 410 birds on Nov. 22 and 24. On the east side, the Racetrack, Malarky and Hunt units were the top producers. On the west side, the Mud Lake unit produced the greatest numbers of birds.
For the daily harvest summary report visit our website or call the Sauvie Island Wildlife Area recording, 503-621-3488 option 1 to hear the previous hunting day stats.
Hunters and visitors are reminded that a parking permit is required for the Sauvie Island Wildlife Area and can be purchased at ODFW Point of Sale vendors or at the Sauvie Island ODFW office, Monday through Friday during office hours.
For more information, call (503) 621-3488.
Directions to Sauvie Island Wildlife Area
WILLAMETTE ZONE VIEWING
Corvallis Area
EE Wilson Wildlife Area
Bare trees bird watching for perching birds (such as raptors, and hawks) more accessible. Waterfowl and shorebirds numbers will build with the wetter weather.
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
Wintering concentrations of waterfowl and migrant shorebirds can be observed on the lake and surrounding mudflats and wetlands. Several thousand Canada geese use Fern Ridge lake for an evening roost site and the sunset and sunrise departures and arrivals of the large flocks of geese provides an outstanding viewing opportunity. Observant visitors may also catch a glimpse of black tailed deer and furbearers including beaver and otter, mink, red fox and coyotes.
Royal Avenue and the trail to the Fisher Butte viewing platform remain open all day every day year round. There is a second elevated viewing platform in the Fisher Butte unit located 1/4 mile north of the Fisher Butte unit parking lot on Hwy 126.
The majority of Fern Ridge Wildlife Area is open daily for public use providing great wildlife viewing opportunities. Visitors are reminded there are seasonal access restrictions in place in five units during the fall and winter to provide wildlife sanctuary. The East and West Coyote units are closed to all public use until the end of January except for a limited 3 day per week reservation waterfowl hunt program. The Fisher Butte and Royal Amazon units are open daily through the end of duck season, however the units are closed to hunting at 1 PM daily and closed to all public use at 2 PM daily to provide rest periods for waterfowl. The Kirk Park unit is open daily for public use and hunting is limited to 3 days per week plus holidays.
Visitors are cautioned that there have been recent vehicle break-ins at Fern Ridge and in local parks, so please secure your valuables before departing your vehicle. Parking areas are located along Highway 126, Nielson Road, Cantrell Road, Territorial Road, and Clear Lake Road. Contact the wildlife area headquarters, (541) 935-2591 if you have any questions.
Sauvie Island
Sauvie Island Wildlife Area
As leaves fall, the ability to view wildlife increases. The fall migration of waterfowl is in full swing. Duck numbers are increasing and swans and snow geese are beginning to arrive. Cacklers and white front geese have arrived in great numbers and there are plenty of raptors and songbirds to view.
The Sauvie Island Wildlife Area (Eastside Units, Westside Units and Oak Island) are closed through April 15, 2009 with the exception of the North Unit and the Columbia River beaches, which will remain open for the public.
The best viewing opportunities are at Coon Point, Eastside Viewing Platform and Rentenaar Road. All three require a Sauvie Island Parking Permit.
Sauvie Island Wildlife Area is located on Sauvie Island, only 10 miles north of Portland off Highway 30. A parking permit is required for the Sauvie Island Wildlife Area and can be purchased at ODFW License vendors or at the Sauvie Island ODFW office, Monday through Friday during office hours. For more information, call (503) 621-3488.
Directions to Sauvie Island Wildlife Area
NORTHWEST ZONE
FISHING
Note: The 2009 Sport Fishing Regulations have been printed and are now available at all ODFW offices and retail outlets. Pick up a copy today!
Weekend fishing opportunities
* Most north coast rivers are in good fishing condition and are dropping. Relatively dry weather is forecast, so rivers will remain fishable for several days. Best opportunities for chinook will be in the larger rivers, such as the Trask and Wilson. Overall, chinook angling is slow to fair. Scattered reports of early winter steelhead are coming in also.
* The seasonal coho fisheries on Siltcoos and Tahkenitch lakes offers an unusual opportunity to fish for wild coho salmon. Fishing is currently good as large numbers of coho have been returning to the lakes recently. The fishery is anticipated to remain productive over the next couple weeks.
NORTH COAST LAKES
Trout stocking is complete for this year. A few holdover fish should be available in most lakes.
Surplus adult hatchery summer steelhead have been stocked in Town Lake and Cape Meares Lake.
MID COAST LAKES Wild Coho Fishery
Siltcoos Lake (south of Florence): The wild coho salmon fishery has slowed recently but good numbers of coho are expected to keep returning to the lake over the next couple weeks. Anglers are productive casting or trolling spinners, spoons or small rattle type lures. Anglers should consult the 2008 regulations booklet for specific fishery details.
Tahkenitch Lake (south of Florence): The wild coho salmon fishery has slowed recently but is expected to continue to produce coho over the next couple weeks. Anglers are most productive casting or trolling spinners, spoons or small rattle type lures. Anglers should consult the 2008 regulations booklet for specific fishery details.
WARM WATER FISH ANGLING OPPORTUNITIES
The Mid Coast has numerous lakes or reservoirs which offer good angling for naturally produced warm water fish species, such as large mouth bass, yellow perch, bluegill, brown bullhead and crappie. Typically the best fishing is from late spring to mid fall while water temperatures are warm. Tactics such as casting or trolling lures, jigging baits near bottom or using the traditional bait and bobber technique are all productive from either a boat or from shore. Below is a list of lakes near local coastal cities that offer warm water angling opportunities.
Devils Lake (Lincoln City): Offers fair to good year-round trout fishing and also has slow to fair angling for largemouth bass, yellow perch and bluegill.
Big Creek Reservoirs 1 & 2 (Newport): Offers fair largemouth bass fishing, slow to fair angling for yellow perch and bluegill and good year-round angling for rainbow and cutthroat trout.
Olalla Reservoir (Toledo): Offers fair largemouth bass fishing, slow to fair angling for yellow perch, bluegill and brown bullhead and good year-round angling for rainbow and cutthroat trout.
Sutton and Mercer Lakes (northern Florence): Fair to good angling for largemouth bass and decent angling for bluegill, and potential for crappie and brown bullhead. Offers year-round rainbow and cutthroat trout fishing.
Woahink Lake (southern Florence): Can be good to very good for yellow perch and offers fair to good angling for largemouth bass and bluegill.
Siltcoos Lake (south of Florence): A large lake with numerous fingers, lots of shoreline structure and a couple large tributaries. Offers fair to good angling for largemouth bass, bluegill, yellow perch and brown bullhead. There is good year-round rainbow and cutthroat trout fishing and a good seasonal fishery for coho salmon.
Tahkenitch Lake (south of Florence): A large lake with numerous fingers, lots of shoreline structure and a couple large tributaries. Offers good to very good angling for largemouth bass and yellow perch, and fair to good angling for bluegill, crappie and brown bullhead. There is good year-round cutthroat trout fishing and a good seasonal fishery for coho salmon.
ALSEA RIVER: chinook salmon
Catch rates of fall chinook is slow. Fish can be found throughout the open area above tidewater. Most fish are dark with many actively spawning. Small numbers of new fish may continue to pulse in over the next couple weeks.
Current river levels
BIG CREEK: steelhead
Some early winter steelhead are beginning to show in the river. The number of fish will increase over the next several weeks.
KILCHIS RIVER: chinook, steelhead
The river is dropping and is clear. Fall chinook angling is slow. There should be an early winter steelhead or two in the river also. A log jam occurred in the lower river during the last high water. The river was blocked for a few days, but is now passable. Boaters should use extreme caution as a large tree is still across the river at this time.
NECANICUM RIVER: chinook, steelhead
Fall chinook angling had been slow prior to recent rains. Fall chinook will be distributed in low numbers throughout the system. A few early winter steelhead should be in the system also.
NEHALEM RIVER AND NORTH FORK NEHALEM RIVER: chinook, steelhead
A few fall chinook are available in the bay but fishing has been mostly slow this year. The mainstem Nehalem is high and generally takes a long time to clear. The North Fork Nehalem should clear soon and will have some fall chinook distributed throughout. Fish bobber and bait in deeper pools to target chinook. A few winter steelhead have been caught below the hatchery recently, but numbers are low. Look for the numbers of hatchery fish to increase in December.
NESTUCCA RIVER AND THREE RIVERS: chinook, steelhead
The Nestucca River is in good fishable condition. Fishing for chinook is slow. The first winter steelhead of the year were collected at Cedar Creek hatchery last week. A few summer steelhead are still being caught also.
SALMON RIVER: chinook salmon, coho salmon,
The chinook and coho salmon fisheries are slow. Most fish are dark and in the process of spawning throughout the river. Fishing the lower river may produce a fresh fish over the next couple weeks.
SILETZ RIVER: chinook salmon, summer steelhead, winter steelhead
Fall chinook salmon angling is slow. Most fish are spread throughout the river and are dark or actively spawning. These fish should be released.
Summer steelhead fishing is slow to fair. Anglers should concentrate in the upper river above Moonshine Park. Winter steelhead are starting to return but in small numbers so far. Drift boat fishing from the town of Logsden and down may produce an early winter. Hatchery fish have been recycled back downstream. These fish have a plastic tag near the dorsal fin. Please report tagged fish to the Newport Office (541-867-4741).
SIUSLAW RIVER: chinook salmon
The fall chinook salmon fishery is slow. Fresh fish may continue to return in small numbers through the month. Most fish are up river and are actively spawning. Bobber and bait tactics should work well in the deeper sections in the lower river.
TILLAMOOK BAY: chinook, sturgeon
Fall chinook are still available throughout the bay, but are moving through quickly with increased flows. Anglers should concentrate their efforts on sturgeon angling, as it is often very good following flood events. Sand shrimp fished on the bottom in the deeper channels will produce the best results.
TRASK RIVER: chinook, steelhead
The Trask River is in good fishable condition. Fall chinook angling has been fair recently. Many of the fall chinook are dark and should be released. Bobber and bait, backbouncing, and backtrolling large plugs will all produce some fish once the river clears. An occasional winter steelhead is being caught also.
Johnson Bridge is being replaced. Boaters should use extreme caution when approaching the bridge site. Passage at the work site will be provided. The road shoulder has been widened at the Cedar Creek boat launch, which will allow vehicles to pull off the road while launching. Anglers should use caution to avoid disturbing fresh fill in the area. Plans are in the works to construct a new boat slide at the site in the near future. Please do not block boat launching at this site. Contact ODFW in Tillamook for details, 503-842-2741.
WILSON RIVER: chinook
Fall chinook angling has been slow to fair. Many of the fall chinook are dark and should be released. Bobber and bait, backbouncing, and backtrolling large plugs will all produce some fish once the river clears. A few winter steelhead are also available. The Siskeyville boat slide construction is complete and the slide is open for use.
YAQUINA RIVER: chinook salmon
Fall chinook salmon fishing is slow. The next couple weeks should continue to show some fresh fish. Most fish have moved up into the spawning areas. Bait and bobber tactics should work well in the lower river.
Current river levels for major north coast streams
NORTH COAST HUNTING
OPEN: Waterfowl (see regulations), second season coast elk centerfire rifle (Nov. 22-28), archery (select units Nov. 22-Dec. 14), forest grouse, California and mountain quail, bear, cougar
Visit the region's Fall Hunting Forecast.
Remember to check with Ore. Dept. of Forestry, the Forest Service, BLM or other land managers about fire or other restrictions before going hunting.
COAST BULL ELK: The second season of coast bull elk closes Nov. 28. Bull escapement in the Wilson and Trask wildlife management units from last year was very good with good calf recruitment as well. With relatively high elk numbers, hunting prospects should be favorable. Please remember that the second season in the Wilson and Trask has a "spike-only" bag limit.
WATERFOWL: Duck hunting on north coast bays should be very good with the onset of harsher weather and a considerable amount of ducks available. Tillamook, Nehalem and Netarts bays and the lower Columbia all offer plenty of public land hunting opportunities and good boat access. Hunters should study local tide tables and be well aware of strong out-going currents and incoming winter storms. The NW Permit Goose Season opens in Tillamook County on Nov. 29; hunters should note the special closure area in the south end of the county (see 2008 Oregon Game Bird Regulations).
Hunting for FOREST GROUSE and QUAIL is likely to be below average this year due to cold, wet weather during much of the nesting season. Grouse numbers appear to be rather low, but mountain quail seemed to be about average. Look for mountain quail on brushy clear-cut areas, especially on south-facing slopes. Ruffed grouse are most commonly found on mid-slopes and along riparian areas, whereas blue grouse tend to occur higher up on ridge tops. It appears that bird numbers in the eastern part of the coast range are better than to the west.
Densities of COUGAR are relatively low on the north coast, and the animals are hard to find unless you specifically target them. One of the most effective ways to hunt them is by using a predator call. An aggressive calling strategy works best on these shy and reclusive cats. Remember cougars must be checked-in no more than 10 days after harvest at an ODFW office.
BLACK BEAR have largely switched over to fruit from orchards now that staples such as berries and other wild fruit are pretty much done for the fall. Bears typically stay active through November, and by December are looking to go into their winter sleep (torpor). Like with cougar, an aggressive calling strategy works best if you are actively hunting bears. Reminder: starting this year, successful bear hunters must now check in their bear at an ODFW office no more than 10 days after harvesting one. See our website or call an ODFW office for details.
NORTHWEST ZONE VIEWING
North Coast Viewing
With winter just around the corner, many migratory waterfowl and other water birds will call the lower Columbia River and other north coast estuaries home for the next several months. In addition to the Columbia estuary, Netarts, Tillamook and Nehalem estuaries are especially good for this type of viewing.
Ducks, geese, coots, grebes, loons and others are fairly common; all that's needed are a good pair of binoculars and/or spotting scope. Look for sea ducks near the lower end of estuaries near the ocean, whereas puddle ducks tend to occupy the upper, shallower ends of the estuaries.
Astoria Area
The Twilight Eagle Sanctuary is located between Astoria and Svensen, just off of Hwy. 30 on Burnside Loop; look for the signs. This unique viewing stop affords an excellent panoramic view of Wolf Bay and a stretch of the lower Columbia River. The viewing platform is ADA accessible and has a number of interpretive panels that explain the ecology of the lower Columbia River as well as historical information about the Lewis and Clark expedition. A lot of migratory waterfowl have recently arrived in the area, and can be seen from the viewing stop. At lower tides, shorebirds can be seen searching the mudflats for food. Of course, bald eagles and other raptors can be seen at any time of year. It's a great place to bring a spotting scope and binoculars and stay a while.
Jewell Meadows Wildlife Area
Elk viewing has been good at Jewell Meadows Wildlife Area with elk visible throughout the day. Look for a large herd of cows and calves near the main view area along Highway 202. About 30 mature bulls have been seen along the west view area. Best viewing times are in the morning and later in the afternoon. Winter elk feeding begins in December and lasts through February. Reservations for public tours will be accepted beginning Dec. 1 starting at 8 a.m. Reservations most likely will be completely filled in one day, so people interested should call on the Dec. 1 at 503-755-2264 to reserve a spot on the feed wagon.
For information and directions, visit the ODFW Web site Visitors' Guide.
Tillamook Area
Three Arch Rocks NWR is located west of Oceanside, and is known for its summer breeding population of Steller sea lions and sea birds, such as common murres. However, in the late fall and winter the rocks are dominated by other birds, such as peregrine falcons and bald eagles, which are often seen perched on the tops of the rocks, looking and waiting for prey.
SOUTHWEST ZONE
FISHING
Note: The 2009 Sport Fishing Regulations have been printed and are now available at all ODFW offices and retail outlets. Pick up a copy today!
Weekend fishing opportunities
* The South Umpqua River opens for fin-clipped winter steelhead on Dec. 1.
* Trout season remains open year round in Coos County lakes, where anglers continue to report some success.
* Anglers continue to take home their limits of trout from the Applegate Reservoir.
AGATE RESERVOIR: trout, largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie
A special fall fishing opportunity is available for anglers at Agate Lake. Over 150 trophy trout averaging 15 inches in length and over one pound were stocked in mid-October. Try casting small lures and spinners. Garden hackle and power bait should work as well.
APPLEGATE RESERVOIR: trout, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass
Limits of trout from 8-14 inches have recently been reported. Five anglers came home with limits from Applegate Reservoir last week. Anglers can enjoy a late release of trophy trout at Applegate Reservoir this winter. Over 900 trophy trout averaging 15 inches in length and over one pound each were stocked in late September. Anglers have reported catches of trophy trout trolling wedding rings and other lures. The water level in the reservoir is low, in preparation for winter rains. Pressure has been light. USFS personnel report that the ramp at French Gulch is the only one open.
ARIZONA POND: trout
Arizona Pond is located half-way between Gold Beach and Port Orford at the Oregon State Park's newly acquired property. Even though the water levels have been lowered for weed control, fishing is still very good. Anglers either fly fishing or tossing small spinners are having the best success.
BEN IRVING RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, bass
Ben Irving Reservoir, west of Winston, has been stocked with about 4,000 trout to date.
CHETCO RIVER: chinook salmon, steelhead
The Chetco River is running low and clear, but the river is still full of chinook and just starting to kick out steelhead. Successful anglers are adjusting to the low flows by using smaller baits, lighter line and fishing in areas where there is a lot of structure.
ODFW's fall chinook conservation measures, developed with input from recreation and commercial fishers this year, are putting more chinook on the spawning grounds and renewing excitement for the in-river fishery. Anglers will want to keep an eye on the weather and look for the Chetco to really turn on for fall chinook and steelhead once the flows pick up.
COOPER CREEK RESERVOIR: rainbow trout
Cooper Creek has been stocked with about 9,000 catchable trout to date. One lucky angler caught a nine-pound trout out of Cooper Creek that was probably left over from a year ago. Nearby Plat I reservoir has also been stocked with about 3,000 catchable trout. Bass fishing at Plat I is catch and release from Nov. 1 n Feb. 28.
COOS COUNTY LAKES: rainbow trout
Trout fishing remains decent and there are still a few anglers fishing for trout in the area lakes. Trolling a spinner is a good tactic for catching trout. Fishing with a worm or Power Bait on or near the bottom is another way to catch trout. Trout season remains open year round in Coos County lakes. Coos County lakes won't be stock again until next spring.
COOS RIVER BASIN: chinook salmon, winter steelhead, Dungeness crab
Fishing for fall chinook salmon is all but done and people are starting to think of winter steelhead fishing. There have been a couple reports of a few steehead lurking around but no reports of any steelhead being caught yet. The West Fork Millicoma River is a good place to fish for early season steelhead. We are anticipating a low return of hatchery steelhead to the Coos River basin this winter.
Crabbing in Coos Bay is still good. There are numerous Dungeness crabs just under the legal size limit. Many boats are coming back with limits or near limits of Dungeness crab. The best area is near the North Jetty inside the bay. Crabbing from the Charleston docks in Coos Bay has also produced legal Dungeness crabs. The best crabbing docks have been the B/C and D/E docks in Charleston. The best baits for crabbing are fish, chicken or turkey legs. The best time to crab is two hours before high tide through two hours after.
COQUILLE RIVER BASIN: chinook salmon, winter steelhead, Dungeness crab
The fall chinook run is almost over with and anglers are thinking of winter steelhead fishing. There have been no reports of steelhead being caught in the basin yet. The lower South Fork Coquille River is a good place to try and catch an early season steelhead. Steelhead fishing is open throughout the Coquille River basin except for the East Fork Coquille River which opens Dec. 1.
Crabbing has been good in the Coquille Estuary around Bandon. Legal Dungeness crabs are being caught from boats and the docks in Bandon. The best baits for crabbing are fish, chicken or turkey legs. The best time to crab is two hours before high tide through two hours after.
DIAMOND LAKE: rainbow trout
Closed to fishing until April 25, 2009. Open for other winter sports.
ELK/SIXES RIVER: chinook salmon
Low and clear. Anglers will want to target Elk River when the river gauge at Elk River Hatchery is reading 5 feet and dropping. Anglers are reminded to check emergency regulations that are in effect for fall chinook. In particular, Sixes River is closed to fishing for chinook upstream of Edson Creek mouth.
EMIGRANT RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, crappie
Little pressure has been reported at Emigrant. Some stocked rainbows are still available. Anglers should fish structure, the dam face and dike structures in Emigrant and Hill Creek arms.
Anglers should be aware that recent testing by the Department of Human Services has found elevated levels of mercury in smallmouth bass at Emigrant, and a health advisory has been issued recommending limits on consumption of all fish from Emigrant except rainbow trout. Information on the Emigrant Reservoir advisory, along with general information on mercury and fish can be found on the DHS Web site.
EXPO POND: rainbow trout
Angling for bass and panfish has been good. Fishing bait, either from a bobber or on the bottom with weight, can be effective. The pond is located immediately adjacent to the access road at Gate 5 at the Jackson County fairgrounds.
FISH LAKE: rainbow trout
Fishing has been pretty good at Fish Lake. Both boat and bank anglers report good catches of legal and trophy sized rainbow trout. Over 900 trophy trout averaging 15 inches in length and over one pound each were stocked in late September at Fish Lake. Another 1,000 trophy sized trout were stocked in mid-October. Both bank and boat anglers have done well with a variety of techniques. Power bait and worms are the most popular baits sold at the lodge and used by bank anglers. Try trolling with yellow flatfish or the wedding ring/nightcrawler combo. Fly anglers have also been catching trophy-sized fish. Brook trout are available in Fish Lake. The USFS reports that the boat ramp is useable until it becomes blocked by snow.
GALESVILLE RESERVIOR: rainbow trout, bass
Galesville Reservoir is open to angling year-round. Galesville has been stocked with about 8,000 catchable size trout to date and the 25,000 sub-legal size trout stocked last fall are now legal-sized. Some anglers report seeing external "worms" on a few of the trout or in their gills. These are copepods, a fish parasite, which occur naturally throughout the watershed. The copepods can be removed and the fish safely consumed. Galesville was stocked in June with about 55,000 adipose-clipped hatchery coho which are now legal size. In Galesville Reservoir, all landlocked salmon are considered trout. Thus, there is a 5 per day trout limit, with only one trout over 20 inches in length allowed for harvest. Trout fishing should pick up as water cools this fall. Anglers are reminded all bass between 12 and 15 inches must be released, and only one bass over 15 inches may be taken per day.
GARRISON LAKE: rainbow trout
Rains this month have really improved water conditions and put the trout on the bite. The best way to fish Garrison 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.
HERBERT'S POND: rainbow trout, warm water fish
Herbert's Pond is a small pond just east of Canyonville on Tiller Highway. The pond has a good warm water fishery for kids including bluegill, crappie, and bass. The pond was stocked with a couple hundred trout in early June to provide some additional fishing opportunity while the pond is still cool enough to keep the trout healthy. The pond has very good bank access.
HOWARD PRAIRIE RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass
Howard Prairie is closed to angling until April 25, 2009.
HYATT LAKE: rainbow trout, largemouth bass
Hyatt Lake is closed to angling until April 25, 2009.
LAIRD LAKE: trout
Laird Lake is located approximately 25 miles up Elk River. Most anglers fish from the bank with fly rods or small spinning rods.
LAKE MARIE: rainbow trout
Lake Marie is at Umpqua Lighthouse State Park near Winchester. The lake has already been stocked with 4,000 trout.
LAKE SELMAC: trout, largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, and brown bullheads
Angling for trophy trout is very good. A special fall fishing opportunity is available for anglers at Lake Selmac. Approximately 500 trophy trout averaging 15 inches in length and over one pound each were stocked in mid-October.
LEMOLO RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, brown trout
Closed to fishing until April 25, 2009. Open for other winter sports.
LOON LAKE: rainbow trout
Fishing at Loon Lake has been very good lately for all panfish and largemouth bass. Loon Lake has been stocked with about 7,000 catchable trout plus some trophy trout to date. In addition, there were almost 6,000 sub-legal trout stocked last fall that are now 12 inches long and legal for harvest.
LOST CREEK RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass
Lost Creek Reservoir was stocked with 600 trophy trout in late September, and should provide good fishing throughout the winter. The fish averaged 17 inches and two pounds each. Pressure has been light, but anglers fishing Lost Creek are having success. Trolling is most effective but bank anglers are also catching fish. Bank anglers are fishing either floating bait or worms. Trollers are fishing wedding ring and night crawler combinations. Angling for smallmouth bass has been fair to good. The health warning related to an algae bloom in mid-September is still in effect. The bloom still covers most of the reservoir. The water in the reservoir will be sampled again this week. We will report the results as soon as they become available. It is suggested that you practice catch and release fishing until the health advisory is lifted.
MEDCO POND: rainbow trout, largemouth bass, panfish
Fishing for bass and panfish has been fair.
NEW RIVER/FLORAS CREEK: chinook
Fall chinook fishing has picked up in the last week. Fall chinook will generally hold in New River waiting to move up into Floras Creek to spawn. Anglers can expect fishing to remain good until the next heavy rains. Shore access is very limited, but anglers can access all of New River with a boat. Anglers are reminded to check emergency regulations that are in effect for fall chinook. In particular, Floras Creek is closed to fishing for chinook upstream of the county road bridge.
PACIFIC OCEAN AND BEACHES: bottomfish
Rockfish daily bag limit has returned to six fish and is open to the 40-fathom line. Sport anglers may still retain two lingcod but cabezon may no longer be retained by boat anglers.
REINHART PARK POND: trout, warmwater fish
Anglers are still taking home some limits of large trout. Grants Pass anglers can enjoy a special fall fishing opportunity at Reinhart Park Pond this year. Approximately 100 trophy trout averaging 15 inches in length and over one pound each were stocked in mid-October. Largemouth bass and bluegill are also available. Trout are hitting worms and floating baits. The bass and bluegill will take worms or a variety of lures.
ROGUE RIVER, LOWER: steelhead
With most of the fall chinook in the tributaries spawning, anglers are turning their attention to winter steelhead. Anglers targeting winter steelhead should fish fairly close to the bank and on the inside bends of the river. The two best methods to catch winter steelhead are plunking a spin-n-glow or running plugs from an anchored boat. Anglers should keep an eye on flows and look to fish after a rain event when the flows start dropping.
Rogue River flows
ROGUE RIVER, MIDDLE: trout, steelhead
Summer steelhead and a few coho salmon are being caught in the middle river area. The steelhead catch is mostly of wild origin, with a few hatchery fish showing up.
Best bet for steelhead is a glow bug below spawning areas. Use darker colors on cloudy days. Also, small plugs, such as a Brad's Wiggler 135 with gold sides and black top, work well below spawning beds. For coho, try big pink spoons and spinners. Troy from U-Save-Gas in Grants Pass has heard of some winter steelhead that were caught in the lower river. Winter steelhead will be here soon! The flow at Grants Pass on Nov. 23 was 1680 cubic feet per second.
From Aug. 1 through Dec. 31, between Elephant Rock and Hog Creek boat landing, no more than two adult non-adipose fin-clipped chinook may be kept per day as part of the daily limit. No more than 10 non-adipose finclipped chinook may be kept per year with five applying to the SW zone aggregate. Beginning Oct. 1 until Dec. 31, Hog Creek boat landing to Gold Ray Dam is closed to chinook fishing.
ROGUE RIVER, UPPER: trout, steelhead
Guides are seeing more steelhead in the upper river. Flies, lures and bait are starting to produce fish from the hatchery down to the Shady Cove ramp, with best fishing on side-drifted roe clusters. Steelhead are being caught on brass wigglers, and "fatfish". Flies such as Copper John, egg patterns and Ugly Bugs are working well also. Trout fishing is good on dry flies when hatches come on. Try small midges. Anglers are hooking several steelhead a day and some cohos. Good numbers of steelhead are coming over Gold Ray. Fishing is definitely on the upswing. As of Nov. 23, the flow out of William Jess Dam (Lost Creek) was 1207 cfs and the outflow temperature was 44 degrees. As of Nov. 19, 5636 summer steelhead and 2027 coho have been counted at Gold Ray Dam. Angling for chinook is closed above Gold Ray. Gold Ray Reservoir (not including the reservoir) upstream to the boat ramp at Shady Cove Park is restricted to artificial flies and lures, Nov. 1 through Dec. 31. Anglers can use bait between the ODFW markers below the Cole Rivers Hatchery fish ladder entrance and the boat ramp at Shady Cove Park starting Nov. 1. See synopsis for details.
ROGUE RIVER (SECTION 5): rainbow trout
Section 5 of the Rogue River (upstream of Lost Creek Reservoir) is closed to angling until April 25, 2009.
SODA SPRINGS RESERVOIR: brown and rainbow trout
Soda Springs Reservoir remains open, but the tributaries upstream of Soda Springs closes for trout starting Nov. 1.
SMITH RIVER: striped bass, trout, fall chinook, steelhead
Anglers have been catching chinook hit or miss in the lower river. Open for adipose fin-clipped steelhead from mouth to Spencer Creek and North Fork from mouth upstream to Johnson Creek. Fall chinook season is open from mouth to Spencer Creek, but North Fork Smith is closed Aug 1-Dec 31 for fall chinook fishing as an emergency closure for 2008 (check for special regulations). Trout season closed Sept. 15. Striped bass season is open year-round, 2 fish per 24 hours, 30-inch minimum size. The North Fork is open from mouth to Johnson Creek for stripers.
SOUTH COAST STREAMS: trout
Trout season in the Umpqua tributaries, Smith River, South Umpqua, North Umpqua tributaries below Soda Springs Reservoir and Cow Creek basins closed Sept. 15. The mainstem Umpqua and mainstem North Umpqua to Soda Springs Dam are open year-round for catch and release trout. North Umpqua mainstem and tributarties above Soda Springs Reservoir close to trout angling starting Nov. 1.
TENMILE LAKES: largemouth bass, yellow perch, rainbow trout
There are still holdover rainbow trout in Tenmile Lakes. These fish are from the spring trout stockings and are now 12-13 inches long.
Largemouth bass fishing is slowing down. Use jigs or plastic lures and concentrate your fishing efforts near structure in six feet of water or deeper. If you are not getting any bites try slowing down your presentation.
TENMILE CREEK/EEL CREEK: winter steelhead
Steelhead should start to enter Tenmile Creek soon. Although the best fishing starts in late-December and January. We are anticipating a low return of hatchery steelhead to Tenmile Creek this winter. Eel Creek does not open for fishing until Jan. 1.
TOKETEE LAKE: brown trout
Fishing is open in Toketee year-round, and the best fishing occurs early in the morning. The lake has both good bank and boat access throughout.
UMPQUA ESTUARY: sturgeon, bass, chinook, coho
Both sturgeon and striped bass fishing have been slow in the lower Umpqua. Fishing and angling success for coho and chinook have slowed. Crabbing is still good.
UMPQUA HIGH LAKES AND FOREBAYS: trout
The last stocking was Labor Day Weekend for Clearwater Forebay #2 and Hemlock Lake. 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 this year. However, check road conditions before traveling to these lakes now.
UMPQUA RIVER MAINSTEM: steelhead, spring chinook, smallmouth bass
Chinook fishing is fair but chinook caught are tending to be large. Several 40 n 50 pound chinook have been reported in recent weeks. A rain should get the fish moving. Smallmouth bass fishing is slow, as water temperatures lower. Remember the main stem Umpqua is closed to wild steelhead harvest, but remains open year-round for adipose fin-clipped steelhead. Good numbers of coho are being caught thru out the main. Open for adipose fin-clipped coho Aug. 1-Dec. 31. Starting Aug. 1, check special regulations for fall chinook.
UMPQUA RIVER, NORTH: steelhead
The final count for spring chinook was 7,677 fish. Through mid-October 546 coho and 6,079 summer steelhead have passed Winchester Dam. Remember that only adipose fin-clipped steelhead can be harvested on the North Umpqua. The North is open to catch and release trout fishing from the mouth upstream to Soda Springs Dam. Season opened for adipose fin-clipped coho on Aug. 1. There will be few fin-clipped coho returning to the North Umpqua this year since the hatchery program was discontinued in 2005. There will still be fin-clipped coho in the mainstem Umpqua. The North closed to chinook fishing on July 31 and will not re-open until Jan. 1.
UMPQUA RIVER, SOUTH: winter steelhead
The South Umpqua opens Monday, Dec. 1 for winter steelhead fishing. Only adipose-clipped steelhead can be harvested.
WILLOW LAKE: trout
Willow Lake was stocked with 250 trophy trout in late September. Anglers should try using floating bait or worms. Casting or trolling lures or flies can also be effective.
WINCHESTER BAY: sturgeon, coho, chinook
Fishing is picking up a little for sturgeon. Angling for both coho and chinook in the bay opened on Aug. 1. Only fin-clipped coho can be harvested and only one, non-fin-clipped chinook per day, five per year can be harvested. See special regulations for more details. Crabbing has been good.
RECREATIONAL SHELLFISH IS OPEN
The entire Oregon coast is open for recreational shellfishing. ALWAYS CHECK FOR HEALTH ADVISORIES by calling the Oregon Department of Agriculture's Shellfish line at 1-800-448-2474 for updates.
Razor clams and current status of particular areas
Crabbing has been a little slow but picked up recently. Crabbers are encouraged to return soft crabs with little meat back to the water. Crabbing from public docks or boat if available is a great opportunity for families to catch a delicious dinner. Kids often enjoy sorting out the smaller crab that can be abundant. Public crabbing docks can be found in Winchester Bay, Bandon, Charleston, and Empire.
Clamming effort in Coos Bay has slowed down but there are still lots a clams available. A couple of areas to try are Pigeon Point off the Cape Arago Highway and the Charleston Flat south of the Charleston Bridge.
* ALWAYS CHECK FOR HEALTH ADVISORIES by calling the Oregon Department of Agriculture's Shellfish line at 1-800-448-2474 for updates.
* Razor clams and current status of particular areas
* Bay clams
SOUTHWEST ZONE HUNTING
OPEN: Fall turkey, waterfowl (see regulations), archery deer (certain units only; see regulations), coast bull elk second season (Nov. 22-28), forest grouse, California and mountain quail, bear, cougar, crow
RATTLE FIRE CLOSURES: Please check the Umpqua National Forest's web site at www.fs.fed.us/r6/umpqua or call 541-672-6601 for latest closure information
Visit the SW Region Fall Hunting Forecast
Remember to check with Ore. Dept. of Forestry, the Forest Service, BLM or other land managers about fire restrictions before going hunting; restrictions can change suddenly.
DOUGLAS COUNTY
BIG GAME:
General bow DEER season is open through Dec. 7 in the Melrose and Evans Creek units for Douglas County. Bow season is also open Nov. 22 n Dec. 14 in the Siuslaw unit.
Only controlled ELK hunts are open at this time. But, general coast bull 2nd season continues through Nov. 28 for the Melrose and Siuslaw units in Douglas County. Elk populations are similar to last year so this hunting year will be average.
General BEAR season is now open. Hunters can expect an average year. Successful bear hunters are reminded there is a mandatory check-in for all harvested bear within 10 days of harvest (see regulations for details).
COUGAR season is open. Hunters can expect an average year. Cougars are abundant and wildly distributed. The best opportunity for success is in areas of high deer populations using a predator call.
UPLAND GAMEBIRDS:
The season is currently open. Blue GROUSE success is best in mid to high elevations of the Cascades in partly open conifer stands. Ruffed grouse can be found near creeks mostly at mid elevations of both the Cascades and Coast Range. Success is best in the lower elevation agricultural lands for California quail and mid-elevations of the Cascades and Coast Range near brushy clear cuts on secondary forest roads for Mountain quail.
The FALL TURKEY season is currently open. Hunters can expect an average year. Most turkeys are on or adjacent to low-mid elevation private lands associated with oak savannah habitat.
MIGRATORY GAMEBIRDS:
CROW season is now open. Hunters can expect an average year. Crow are abundant and widely distributed on the Umpqua Valley floor. Hunting crow is a challenge with most being on or adjacent to private lands.
WATERFOWL:
Duck & Goose hunters can expect an average to above-average year. The season is open for ducks, geese, snipe and coot. Nearly all waterfowl hunting in the Umpqua Valley is on private property and hunters should obtain landowner permission before hunting. A reminder that goose season is closed from Dec. 1-12, 2008 in Douglas County east of Hwy. 101.
TRAPPING & HUNTING:
Furbearers n A reminder to trappers and hunters that specific licenses and tags are required to hunt many furbearer species, and hunters should refer to the 2008-10 Oregon Furbearer Trapping and Hunting Regulations for details.
Bobcat - Healthy populations throughout Western Oregon. Harvest season is currently closed but the season opens on Dec. 1, 2008. Pursuit season is currently open for bobcat.
River Otter, Beaver, Mink/Muskrat, Red Fox, Gray Fox & Raccoon n Healthy populations throughout Western Oregon. The harvest season opened for red fox, gray fox, mink/muskrat, river otter, beaver and raccoon is open. Pursuit season for fox and raccoon opened Sept. 1, 2008.
Marten n Good populations at higher elevations of the Cascades. The season is currently open.
COOS COUNTY
WATERFOWL numbers are currently high in Coos Bay and other coastal bays. While there are still good numbers of dabbling ducks, divers like ring-neck ducks and scaup are also beginning to appear. Hunters are encouraged to take advantage of the congregation of birds due to the fact that as rains begin the inland valleys will fill and cause ducks to disperse.
General Bow DEER season has reopened in select units. The rut for deer is in full swing. Any changes in weather in the area will result in increased deer activity. The best way to locate bucks this time of year is to locate does. Bucks will stay close to the does for breeding. Antler rattling and calling can be effective methods to use on deer right now, as well as watching forest clearings for moving deer.
ELK seasons are occurring now. Rainy weather has been slow in coming for the bull elk seasons. Rain is expected late in the season, however. This should result in an increase in elk activity and improve hunting. Until then, elk will be bedding in cover during much of the day. They will become active late in the afternoons and may continue to be active in early mornings.
BEAR season is open. Winter is coming but all is not lost for bear hunting. Recent warm weather is keeping bears active temporarily. Since the berry season is almost over, bears that are active will be on the move searching for anything to eat. Predator calling may me the best method to get an opportunity at these desperate bears. Don't forget check-in is now mandatory for successful bear hunters.
COUGAR season is open. Cougars are abundant throughout with indicators pointing to stable or increasing numbers. Hunting cougar is a challenge because these animals are very secretive, but harvest success is greatest adjacent to private land with high deer populations using a predator call. Remember check-in is mandatory for successful hunters.
MTN QUAIL and CALIF QUAIL populations fared better than grouse this year due to the fact that their clutches hatch later in the spring, missing the winter-like weather. These birds will be found in brushy clear cuts and near agricultural areas.
FOREST GROUSE seasons are open. Grouse will be most abundant along closed forest roads where grass and brush is beginning to encroach on the road. Otherwise riparian areas are good places to hunt these birds. ODFW encourages grouse hunters to save one wing and the tail of grouse harvested. By turning these parts in to ODFW we can analyze them to gain important information on the health of these populations. Paper bags with instructions on what parts to save are available from ODFW or from wing-deposit boxes at Dean Creek Elk Viewing Area or the Charleston ODFW office.
JACKSON, JOSEPHINE, CURRY COUNTIES
General buck DEER bow season reopened Nov. 15 and will continue until Dec. 7; also deer muzzleloader season for the Applegate unit follows the same dates. Buck ratios continue to be high with the season expected to be average. Most deer have reached their winter range so focus on low elevations around oak trees and brush fields. Bucks are showing signs of going into rut; hunters can consider rattling and calling to attract bucks.
The Jackson Cooperative Travel Management Area is now in effect. This agreement between government agencies and private partners provides hunters with access to a variety of lower elevation areas to hunt. Roads are closed within designated areas unless posted as open to improve quality hunting opportunities. Maps can be obtained online through ODFW's website; click on the Oregon Hunting Access Map
Coast Bull ELK rifle 2nd season is open Nov. 22 n Nov. 28. Applegate unit is our only unit for the coastal hunt. Elk populations in the Applegate unit are minimal, however some herds can be found in select drainages. It is best to scout out where the elk are located before hunting the Applegate unit.
BEAR season is open. Bears taken in Jackson, Josephine and Curry counties for the fall hunt have one of the highest harvests in the state. Applegate unit is third-ranked in terms of number of bears taken this fall. Hunters are reporting to see bears throughout our units. Bears are eating Manzanita berries and grubs. Successful hunters, don't forget-bring bear skulls in thawed and with mouth propped open so biologists can collect and measure needed teeth and are able to tag skulls. Remember check-in is now mandatory. More information
General COUGAR season is open. Cougar populations continue to be plentiful. Predator calling has become one of the best methods for hunters. Focus on spots where there are high populations of wintering deer. Hunters are reminded that they must bring their cougar into an ODFW office within 10 days to be checked and tagged, refer to regulations for details. Hunters are asked to bring in cougars thawed and mouths propped open for easier tissue sampling, teeth collection and tagging.
WESTERN GRAY SQUIRREL is now open only in a portion of the Rogue unit; refer to regulations for more detail. It is open year round with no bag limit.
TURKEYS are plentiful and tags are still available. Hunters will find a new type of challenge in hunting turkey in the fall season. They are not as responsive to call but yet they may not be as wary of humans either. Hunters have had success in ambushing or scattering flocks and using the lost call as they begin to regroup. A reminder that either sex can be harvested in the fall.
WATERFOWL season is open. Duck and goose hunting this year will be average. Fall flights numbers are slightly lower than last year. Weather will continue to be a factor in how many birds arrive in our area. Stormy weather will bring migratory birds into the Denman Wildlife Area. Most fields on DENMAN WILDLIFE AREA are now flooded and waterfowl hunting should pick up. Through the end of the season, Denman Wildlife Area Hall tract will only be open for hunting Saturdays, Sundays, Wednesdays, and Thanksgiving and Christmas Day, all other tracts on the Wildlife Area will be open everyday through the season. Many ponds exist in the Rogue valley although most are on private lands; hunters need to ask for permission. South Coast zone for geese is open until Jan. 25, 2009.
SNIPE is another challenging bird to hunt as they are small, fast and erratic low-flying birds that can be hard to identify. Be sure to know how to differentiate it from killdeer and other shorebirds before you hunt. Snipe may be spooked in areas where there are high numbers of hunters but other times a person can walk up on them. Snipe almost always emit a call when they take off in flight. The best time to hunt snipe will be late fall and winter months. Denman Wildlife Area has decent numbers of snipe.
UPLAND GAME BIRDS season is open. Overall numbers appear to be lower than average with a few exceptions where pockets of birds have had good reproduction. Forest grouse can be found in timbered creek draws and mountain quail will be found in brushy clear cuts near water. A good bird dog will aid greatly in bird retrieval. Hunters are encouraged to bring to ODFW offices one wing and the tail of forest grouse to help us monitor age distribution. Rogue Valley has low numbers of pheasants; the pheasant that do exist are found on private lands so you will need permission to hunt.
SOUTHWEST ZONE VIEWING
Coos County
Waterfowl numbers are very good in Coos Bay and other coastal bays. Many of the diving ducks are late migrants. They are beginning to show up locally now. Good places to look at waterfowl are along Cape Arago Highway near Barview.
The influx of waterfowl will likely result in an influx of their predators. Numbers of bald eagles and other raptors generally increase with increasing waterfowl numbers. Good places to see these birds are the Coos Bay North Spit, east side of Coos Bay, the Coquille Valley and the lower Umpqua.
Large numbers of elk are showing up in the fields of Dean Creek right now. Although the rut is over for elk bulls are still very visible. Dean Creek Elk Viewing Area is located a few miles east of Reedsport along Hwy. 38.
Douglas County
Winter Raptors - Wintering raptors, especially red-tail hawks, can commonly be seen along highways throughout the county.
Fish Passage - Coho Salmon are now migrating upstream and passing through Winchester dam fish ladder on the N. Umpqua River which is open to the public. To view the migrating fish go to exit 129 on I-5, proceed southeast on 99 to the fish ladder on the north side of the river.
Bald Eagles n Bald Eagles are now commonly seen along the mainstem portion of the Umpqua River from Roseburg to Reedsport.
Denman Wildlife Area
Denman Wildlife Area has had an increase of hawks, accipiters and buteos. Many Northern Harriers, Red-tailed hawks, and Rough-legged hawks have been seen hunting throughout the valley. A Black-shouldered Kite has been observed almost daily on the Wildlife Area. Hunting season is occurring on the wildlife area so be aware of hunters while watching wildlife on the area. For information on the Wildlife Area, visit ODFW's Web site.
Jackson and Josephine counties are full of flocks of black birds, meadowlarks and a variety of sparrows, so take the opportunity to do some birdwatching.
CENTRAL ZONE
FISHING
Note: The 2009 Sport Fishing Regulations have been printed and are now available at all ODFW offices and retail outlets. Pick up a copy today!
Weekend fishing opportunities:
* Steelhead are currently spread throughout the lower 100 miles of the Deschutes River with the best fishing in the upper sections n South Juntion, Trout Creek and Warm Springs.
* Several rivers in this zone offer good winter trout fishing opportunities including the Fall, Metolius, Crooked and Deschutes.
ANTELOPE RESERVOIR: rainbow trout
An illegally introduced population of bullhead catfish has overpopulated the reservoir reducing water quality, but very large (18-33") rainbow trout were present in our last population assessment conducted Oct. 9. Fishing may be challenging, but well worth the effort.
CLEAR LAKE: rainbow trout
No recent reports.
CRESCENT LAKE: brown trout, kokanee, rainbow trout
Anglers are reporting good weather and good fishing for brown trout and lake trout.
CROOKED RIVER BELOW BOWMAN DAM: redband trout and mountain whitefish
Fishing with artificial flies and lures only, no bait. Officials increased flows to 100 cfs over the weekend where they will be maintained for approximately one week. Regardless of the change in water level, trout continued to take dry flies and wet flies readily over the weekend.
All anglers are encouraged to 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
Cultus is still accessible at this time. This time month should provide good opportunity for lake trout and rainbow trout.
DAVIS LAKE: redband trout, largemouth bass
No recent reports. Please note Davis Lake is restricted to fly angling only.
DESCHUTES RIVER: steelhead, rainbow trout
Mouth to Warm Springs: steelhead, trout, fall chinook
Steelhead angling has been good on the Deschutes between South Junction and Pelton Dam. Fish are currently spread throughout the lower 100 miles of the Deschutes. Angling for steelhead in the upper stretches (South Junction, Trout Creek, Warm Springs) has certainly been quite a bit better than the rest of the river. Recent warm weather and high elevation rain has caused White River to reduce visibility in the lower 45 miles of the Deschutes.
Anglers are reminded that fall chinook season for the entire Deschutes River and the trout season above the northern boundary of the Warm Springs Reservation closed on Oct. 31. Steelhead angling remains open for the entire river until Dec. 31.
Lake Billy Chinook to Benham Falls: rainbow trout, brown trout
No recent reports. This reach of the Deschutes currently provides angling opportunity for brown trout and redband trout.
FALL RIVER: rainbow trout
The river above the falls remains open the entire year, and is restricted to fly-fishing only. This is a popular winter fishery for fly fishers.
HAYSTACK RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, brown trout
Anglers reporting success fishing for trout, kokanee and bullhead catfish. Large mouth bass of 3-5 lb. are also present in the reservoir.
HOOD RIVER: summer steelhead, winter steelhead
The Hood River has cleared after recent high water and catch rates for summer steelhead have been good. Anglers are also reminded that retention of non fin-marked coho and chinook is prohibited in the Hood River.
Find out how many fish are being captured at the Powerdale Dam trap.
KINGSLEY RESERVOIR: rainbow trout
Kingsley was recently stocked, and should provide excellent fishing opportunity. Adult excess hatchery steelhead from Hood River have recently been stocked.
LAKE BILLY CHINOOK: bull trout, brown trout, rainbow trout, kokanee, smallmouth bass
The emergency regulation eliminating the 25 fish bonus bag on kokanee expired on Oct. 27. The bonus bag will be in effect until Dec. 31. However, anglers should note that the Metolius Arm of the reservoir closes Nov. 1, and that the vast majority of adult kokanee left the reservoir and spawned in the Metolius River over the last 6 weeks. Therefore, there are very few kokanee of catchable size (larger than 8
inches) currently in the reservoir.
METOLIUS RIVER: redband trout, bull trout
Fishing above Allingham Bridge is now closed but trout fishing below the bridge has been good.
NORTH TWIN LAKE: rainbow trout
There is good opportunity for 8 to 12-inch rainbow with the potential for larger fish up to 18 inches as the water temperature starts to drop.
OCHOCO CREEK UPSTREAM TO OCHOCO DAM: rainbow trout
Bait fishing is not allowed. Artificial flies and lures only, and regulations allow no more than two trout per day with only one trout greater than 20 inches and no trout under eight inches.
OCHOCO RESERVOIR: rainbow trout
Reports of good angling for rainbow trout.
PINE HOLLOW RESERVOIR: rainbow trout
No recent reports, but water levels are good and lots of fish should be available. Earlier in the year the reservoir received additional allocations of hatchery fish originally destined for (inaccessible) high elevation lakes.
PRINEVILLE RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, black crappie, bass
All anglers have been reporting great success.
ROCK CREEK RESERVOIR: rainbow trout
No recent reports.
SIMTUSTUS LAKE: rainbow trout, bull trout
Closed to fishing Oct. 31.
SUTTLE LAKE: kokanee, brown trout
No recent reports though the lake is still accessible and provides great opportunity for brown trout.
TAYLOR LAKE: rainbow trout
Taylor Lake was recently stocked with trophy trout and excess adult steelhead and should provide excellent fall trout fishing opportunity. Taylor Lake is also a good location to catch carp on the fly.
WALTON LAKE: rainbow trout
Although gate to campground is locked, anglers are still allowed to fish the reservoir. Trout anglers have been reporting success with artificial flies and lures. Trout are difficult to target with bait due to a population of illegally introduced and stunted bullhead catfish.
CENTRAL ZONE HUNTING
OPEN: Late antlerless elk (Nov. 22-30), pheasant, waterfowl (see regulations), chukar, hun, California quail, forest grouse (some areas close Nov. 30), crow, bear (closes Nov. 30), cougar
Visit the Region's Fall Hunting Forecast
PRINEVILLE/OCHOCO WILDLIFE DISTRICT
LATE ANTLERLESS ELK is open in portions of the Maury unit and all of the Ochoco unit. For the most part hunters report that elk are scattered and in smaller groups. Maury hunters will likely find better results hunting BLM lands around the S. Fork of the Crooked River and the Hampton Buttes. In the Ochoco unit the Ochoco National Forest has been productive. Ochoco hunters are reminded the Rager and S. Boundary Travel Management Areas (TMA's) are in effect. Maps are available at portal signs as you enter the TMA's or at local ODFW and Forest Service offices.
BEAR are mostly using higher elevation forested areas on the Ochoco National Forest in the Ochoco and Grizzly units. Bear hunters are reminded they will need a controlled antlerless elk tag in the Ochoco and Maury units open for the late November antlerless elk hunts and that bear hunting will close Nov. 30. Remember check-in is mandatory this year for successful hunters.
COUGARS are present at all elevations in the Maury, Ochoco, and Grizzly units. As with bear, cougar hunters will need a controlled antlerless elk tag for the Ochoco and Maury units during the late November antlerless elk seasons. Remember cougars must be checked in at an ODFW office within 10 days after harvest.
UPLAND GAME bird hunters will find the best opportunities for blue and ruffed grouse at higher elevations, on more timbered north slopes across the Paulina and Lookout Mountain Ranger Districts of the Ochoco National Forest. Hunters are reminded the season for grouse closes Nov. 30. The better valley quail hunting is at lower elevations on private and BLM lands where wet areas provide cover and riparian habitat. Chukar are scattered but can be found predominantly in rocky canyon areas along the upper Crooked, Deschutes, and John Day rivers.
WATERFOWL hunting opportunities are hampered by the lack of wetlands on public lands. Prineville Res. offers limited opportunities on the Wildlife Management Area (WMA). The inner gates on the north side access road of the Prineville Res. WMA closed Nov. 15, and the remaining open portions of the road close Dec. 1. Hunting is still allowed, but access is limited to foot or bike travel. Most of the remaining wetlands, reservoirs, and better feeding areas in the District are on private agricultural lands where permission from landowners is required. Duck hunters are reminded the season in this area closes on Nov. 30 and reopens on Dec. 3.
THE DALLES WILDLIFE DISTRICT
Second period ELK season hunter success was average or slightly lower. Rocky Mtn Bull Elk season continues through Dec. 5.
WATERFOWL are beginning to show up in the region in fair numbers. The best waterfowl hunting in the area is on private lands. Some limited access for ducks and geese can be found along the Columbia River.
PHEASANT season is now open. Most birds within the district are located on private lands. Hunters need to seek permission before hunting private lands. The pheasant hunting will probably be slow compared to the past couple years, as pheasant production was slightly below the ten-year average.
For hunters wishing to pursue COUGAR, the best opportunity will in areas where wintering deer and elk are congregating. One of the better areas is generally around White River Wildlife area, where both deer and elk winter in fair numbers. Successful cougar hunters, remember check-in is mandatory; see the regulations for details.
Hunters in search of BEARS should focus their efforts in areas of available forage. Bears are generally active during the early morning or late evening periods. Predator calls can also be used, with a fawn bleat being one of the most effective calls. Successful bear hunters, remember check-in is mandatory statewide this year. Bear season closes Nov. 30.
Those wishing to pursue COYOTE will find the best success near agricultural lands. Be sure to ask permission to hunt private lands.
FOREST GROUSE and MTN QUAIL seasons are open. Mt. quail and ruffed grouse can be found along stream bottoms within the national forest, especially in dense riparian areas. Blue grouse are easiest to locate on higher elevation ridge tops, with best success in open areas and berry patches. Forest grouse continues through Jan. 31 in Hood River and Wasco counties but closes Nov. 30 in rest of eastern Oregon.
WHITE RIVER WILDLIFE AREA
Hunters are seeing a fair number of BEARS using the area along with some COUGAR sign. Remember the mandatory check in for both cougar and bear. Bear season closes Nov. 30.
UPLAND BIRD hunters may find an occasional quail, pheasant or Hungarian partridge on the wildlife area. Also, there are a few ducks and geese using the area around some of the wheat fields.
The wildlife area is a vehicle regulated use area. Open roads have a green dot on them. Hunters bringing their ATVs are reminded that all vehicles are to stay on roads; cross country travel is prohibited.
CENTRAL ZONE VIEWING
Prineville Area
Prineville Reservoir Wildlife Management Area
Migrating waterfowl, shorebirds, raptors, and songbirds continue moving through the region and resting on the reservoir and shoreline. The inner gates at the east and west ends of the access road along the north shoreline closed on November 15, and the remaining portion of the road closes on Dec. 1. Walk in or bike access is still allowed and provides vantage points to view migrating birds and resident wildlife.
Game bird hunters also are using the area and all users are encouraged to wear bright hunter orange clothing. The uplands adjacent to the shoreline offer great viewing opportunities for early morning or late afternoon hikers to see deer, coyotes, and a variety of wintering raptors, including bald and golden eagles.
Directions to the Prineville Reservoir Wildlife Management Area
White River Wildlife Area
Visitors to the area can see a wide variety of birds, including Lewis' Woodpeckers, Cooper's hawks and Pileated Woodpecker's. The deer are starting to move down on the wildlife area; large bucks are showing up to make for good viewing.
The Dalles
Wintering waterbirds are starting to arrive in good numbers throughout the Mid-Columbia region. The best areas to view waterbirds are at Mayer State Park, on the Columbia River between The Dalles and Hood River and at Rufus near the gravel bars.
For directions and more information on Mayer State Parks visit http://www.stateparks.com/mayer.html.
Lower Deschutes Wildlife Area
Many different species frequent the Deschutes Canyon at this time of year with opportunities to view a wide variety of waterbirds, passerines, deer and bighorn sheep.
Bighorn sheep are a common site in the canyon. One of the most popular spots to view Bighorn rams is across the river from Jones campground, along the Mack's canyon access road.
Many different bird species are present in the Deschutes Wildlife Area, including osprey, kingfishers, great blue herons and waterfowl.
ODFW's Lower Deschutes Wildlife Area is located in The Dalles. Directions and more information about the Lower Deschutes Wildlife Area.
SOUTHEAST ZONE
FISHING
Note: The 2009 Sport Fishing Regulations have been printed and are now available at all ODFW offices and retail outlets. Pick up a copy today!
Weekend fishing opportunities:
* Redband trout are spread throughout the Klamath and Agency lakes, and both bank and boat anglers are catching fish.
* Fishing the Chewaucan River continues to be good above Paisley.
Winter Conditions: Anglers are advised to check road and access conditions before setting out. Some high elevation lakes are inaccessible due to snowy conditions, and winter weather can make road travel hazardous.
ANA RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout, hybrid bass
Ana Reservoir is open all year long for rainbow trout and hybrid bass angling. The reservoir was lowered to inspect the dam and headgates recently; the water level is still very low but the reservoir is fishable. The boat ramp is not usable at this time. The use of live fish for bait is prohibited.
ANA RIVER: hatchery rainbow trout
Ana River is a great place to fish. Angling for rainbow trout has been very good. The river level is high. Rainbow trout in this river can be very spooky so stealth is required. Bait angling is allowed and productive. Tui chub and pit roach are abundant in Ana River so large lures and flies mimicking minnows can be very successful.
ANTHONY LAKE: rainbow trout
Fishing has been good but the lake will freeze over soon.
BALM CREEK RESERVOIR: trout
The trout are biting and are good size. Many are using flies. Lake will likely freeze over very soon.
BEULAH RESERVOIR: redband trout, hatchery rainbow trout, whitefish, bull trout
Ice is beginning to form around the shore of the reservoir. Inflow averaged 52 cfs Nov. 23. The reservoir was 12 percent full on Nov. 23. Angling in the reservoir is slow.
BIG ROCK RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout
Trout stocked as fingerlings will not be of harvestable size until next year.
BLITZEN RIVER: trout
Mainstem Blitzen and tributaries (except Little Blitzen) have a two fish trout bag limit from late May through Oct. 31, and a catch and release fishery from Nov. 1 through late May. The Little Blitzen is a catch and release fishery year-round. Angling should be fair for 10 to 16-inch redband trout, but the water has cooled down, and there may be some edge ice. Flow was 39 cfs November 24, and ranged from 36 to 48 cfs Nov. 17 through Nov. 24.
BULLY CREEK RESERVOIR: bass, white crappie, yellow perch, catfish, and trout.
Ice is beginning to form around the shore of the reservoir. The reservoir was 18 percent full on Nov. 23. The boat ramp is out of the water. Angling is slow.
BURNS POND: trout, bass
Angling should be fair for rainbow trout, if ice does not prevent angling.
CAMPBELL/DEADHORSE LAKES: hatchery rainbow trout
Access to these lakes was closed on July 28 by the USFS.
CHICKAHOMINY RESERVOIR: trout
Angling has been slow to fair for rainbow trout after high winds increased water turbidity. Skim ice was forming on the reservoir Nov. 21.
CHEWAUCAN RIVER: redband trout, largemouth bass
Angling is good for redband trout above Paisley. The lower river (downstream of Paisley including Rivers End Reservoir) closed Oct. 31. The road into the upper Chewaucan River is still open and will be for sometime. This provides access to some great trout fishing in November and sometimes into December. Look for deep pools, beaver dams and wood structures to fish around. Approach a likely spot with some stealth. Redband are available in the main river and tributaries; brook trout are available in Dairy and Elder Creeks.
CHRISTMAS VALLEY GOLF COURSE POND: hatchery rainbow trout
Fish are still available at Christmas Valley Pond. Target trout by boat in the deep portions of the lake at the South end. Ask permission for access to the lake at the Christmas Valley Parks and Recreation office located next to the golf course lodge.
COTTONWOOD MEADOWS: rainbow trout, brook trout
Angling is good for rainbow trout, but slow for brook trout. Aquatic vegetation makes fishing difficult from the South and West side of the lake. Fish the lake as deep as possible; with lures and flies the mimic minnows. Rainbow trout will emerge from the vegetation to hit lures and flies trolled over the top of them.
COTTONWOOD RESERVOIR: native redband trout
Fishing has been good for large, native redband trout.
CRUMP LAKE: black crappie, native redband trout, yellow perch, brown bullhead
Crappie fishing has been slow.
DELINTMENT LAKE: trout
Fair angling for rainbow trout if ice conditions allow angling. Skim ice is forming on the lake.
DOG LAKE: largemouth bass, yellow perch, black crappie, brown bullhead
Dog Lake is closed to the retention of native, redband trout. This lake is not stocked with hatchery trout. Trophy bass fishing opportunities are available here.
DREWS RESERVIOR: native redband trout, largemouth bass, channel catfish, brown bullhead, yellow perch, black crappie
Reservoir levels are very low.
DUNCAN RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout
Bait angling can be good along the shoreline. Prior to the lake freezing over the trout angling will be good. Retrieving lures and flies slowly from the bank, or trolling in a boat, is a regular successful strategy in November.
FISH LAKE (Baker County): rainbow trout, brook trout
Lake has been stocked with legal rainbow trout, and has been very good for rainbow and brook trout. Lake will be frozen over soon and roads impassable.
FISH LAKE (Steens Mountain): brook trout, rainbow trout
No recent angling report. Skim ice is probably forming on the lake.
FOURMILE LAKE: rainbow trout, lake trout, kokanee, brook trout
Access to the lake during the winter months is available by snowmobile, skis, or with a good dog team. However, access is currently available and angling can be good for lake trout. Ice thickness and snow depth on the lake make winter ice fishing a challenge. No ice currently exists on the lake. Safety should be anglers number one priority.
GERBER RESERVOIR: crappie, yellow perch, brown bullhead and largemouth bass
Reservoir is located over 5,000 feet elevation. Water temperatures are cold at this time and angling for most fish species is slow. Some yellow perch can be caught this time of year.
GRANDE RONDE LAKE: rainbow and brook trout
Lake has been stocked with legal rainbow trout. Fishing is good for rainbow and brook trout.
HART LAKE: black crappie, native redband trout, yellow perch, brown bullhead
The lake is very shallow, and high winds can make boating hazardous.
HEART LAKE: hatchery rainbow trout and kokanee
Access to the lake remains open. Fishing for Kokanee and rainbow trout has been good this last month. Fathead minnow are very abundant. Large trout feed on these minnows near the shoreline in the early mornings and evenings.
HOLBROOK RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout
Access to the lake remains open. The reservoir is significantly reduced, but fishing is still excellent for large trout. This reservoir has a large population of small tui chub.
JUNIPER LAKE: cutthroat trout
The lake is nearly dry.
KRUMBO RESERVOIR: trout and largemouth bass
Krumbo Reservoir is closed to angling until late April.
KLAMATH AND AGENCY LAKES: redband trout
Angling for redband trout has been fair. Redband trout are spread throughout the lake. Anglers are catching fish from shore and boat with most people catching fish along Eagle Ridge and Shoalwater Bay. Anglers are also catching fish at the Skillet Handle and Howard Bay. Most redband trout caught this year have been under twenty inches.
KLAMATH RIVER: native rainbow- redband trout
Angling below Keno dam is fair. Access to this section is difficult due to muddy road conditions.
LAKE OF THE WOODS: hatchery rainbow trout, kokanee, hatchery brown trout, yellow perch, brown bullhead, largemouth bass, crappie, and smallmouth bass
The road is open into Lake of the Woods. Angling is slow due to cold water temperatures.
LOFTON RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout
Fishing from the dam, dock, and south side of the lake allows the angler to access deeper water. Recent sampling by ODFW showed a lot of fish in the 10 to 12-inch size range still available to the angler.
LOST RIVER: brown bullhead, yellow perch, largemouth bass, Sacramento perch, pumpkinseed sunfish, bluegill
Angling is slow for warmwater fish.
LUCKY RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout
Lucky Reservoir has good populations of trout. Recent sampling by ODFW showed fish in the 10 to 12-inch size range still available to the angler.
MALHEUR RIVER (Warm Springs Reservoir downstream to South Fork Malheur River): redband trout and hatchery rainbow trout
Discharge below Warm Springs Dam has been shut off for the winter. Flow in the river is limited to seepage from Warm Springs Reservoir. Angling for trout is slow.
MALHEUR RIVER (from the South Fork Malheur River near Riverside, downstream to Gold Creek): redband trout and hatchery rainbow trout
Flow is very low in this stretch of the river since discharge from both Warm Springs Reservoir and Beulah Reservoir has been shut off for the winter. Angling for trout is slow.
MALHEUR RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout
Ice is beginning to form around the shore of the reservoir. The water level is at the end of the ramp. Launching larger boats will be difficult. With the cooler weather catch rates have slowed, but a few large trout continue to be caught.
MALHEUR RIVER, NORTH FORK: redband trout, whitefish, and bull trout
No recent angling report. Trout angling should be slow. Remember to release bull trout.
MALHEUR RIVER, MIDDLE FORK: redband trout, brook trout, and bull trout
No recent angling report. Trout angling should be slow. Remember to release bull trout.
MANN LAKE: trout
Slow angling for cutthroat trout. The lake is very low, and illegally introduced goldfish have disrupted the trout fishery.
MILLER LAKE: brown trout, kokanee, rainbow trout
Access to the Lake is by snowmobile, skis, or a good dog team. Brown trout are available to the adventurous angler.
MOON RESERVOIR: bass, trout
The water level is very low. Slow angling for bass. No angling report for trout. Skim ice is forming on the reservoir.
MUD LAKE: hatchery rainbow trout
The lake level has dropped significantly below half full level, but will hold at this level until spring. The lake is turbid year-round. Recent sampling by ODFW showed fish in the 10 to 12-inch size range still available to the angler.
MURRAY RESERVOIR: trout
Fishing is fair to good for rainbow.
NORTH MALHEUR BLM STOCK PONDS: rainbow trout
All of the BLM ponds in the Harper-Westfall area were stocked on May 30 with fingerling-sized rainbow trout. Littlefield and Squaw Creek reservoirs have good carryover populations. Squaw Creek Reservoir apparently has experienced a late season die-off. It appears that there was a late season blue-green algae bloom at Squaw Creek Reservoir. Anglers need to be cautious with their dogs. Ice is beginning to form around the shore of the reservoirs. No recent angling reports from the other reservoirs.
OVERTON RESERVOIR:
Overton Reservoir is slow for rainbow trout.
OWYHEE RESERVOIR: largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, black crappie, yellow perch, catfish
The reservoir was 23 percent full on Nov. 23. The boat ramps at McCormick State Park, the day-use area, and Leslie Gulch are out of the water. Angling for crappie and bass is fair.
OWYHEE RIVER (Lower): brown trout and hatchery rainbow trout
Irrigation releases below the dam were shut off on Oct. 16 for the winter. The brown trout population is spawning. Anglers need to be careful around areas with redds. Angling for rainbow trout remains good. Angling for brown trout will slow due to spawning. Ice is beginning to form around the edges and on many of the larger pools. Anglers should use caution when walking on ice.
OWYHEE RIVER (Upper): smallmouth bass and channel catfish
Discharge at the Rome gauge averaged 151 cfs on Nov. 23. Angling for smallmouth and channel catfish should be slow.
PAIUTE RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout and hatchery Lahontan cutthroat trout
Rainbow and cutthroat trout are available. The reservoir level is extremely low, but fish are still being caught. Small flies and lures work the best, near the dam face.
PHILLIPS RESERVOIR: trout, perch
No recent report. Water level is 46 percent.
PILCHER RESERVOIR: trout
Some 10 to 12-inch trout are being caught. Reservoir is 40 percent full. A new regulation will be in place beginning Jan. 1, 2009 that prohibits fishing until April 25, 2009. See 2009 regulations for more detail.
POLE CREEK RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout
Water level in the reservoir is at minimum pool. Angling is poor.
POWDER RIVER: trout, spring chinook
Rainbow trout fishing is fair-good below Mason Dam.
SID LUCE: hatchery rainbow trout
Fishing for trout in this reservoir has been good. The road into Sid Luce has eroded considerably. Four wheel drive vehicles are recommended. Winter conditions will soon close access.
SOUTH MALHEUR BLM STOCK PONDS: hatchery rainbow trout
All of the ponds in the Jordan Valley area were stocked with fingerling trout on June 3. Several reservoirs north of Jordan Valley have carryover populations. Ice is beginning to form around the shore of the reservoirs. Angling has improved with the cooler weather conditions.
SPAULDING RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout
Spaulding Reservoir is dry.
SPRAGUE RIVER: redband trout, brown trout, brown bullhead, largemouth bass, yellow perch
The river closed Oct. 31.
SUNSTONE RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout
Rainbow trout are available.
SYCAN RIVER: redband trout, brown trout, brook trout
The river closed Oct. 31.
THIEF VALLEY RESERVOIR: trout
Fishing is slow. Reservoir is 40 percent full. The reservoir was stocked with large fingerlings this fall.
THOMPSON RESERVOIR: largemouth bass, hatchery rainbow trout
Access is still open. Rainbow trout fishing has improved in the last month.
TOPSY RESERVOIR: largemouth bass, brown bullhead, crappie, yellow perch, bluegill, Sacramento perch, pumpkinseed sunfish, redband trout
Angling for warmwater fish is slow.
TWIN LAKES (Baker County): rainbow trout
The lake was stocked with legal-sized rainbow trout. Roads will be impassable due to snow soon.
UNITY RESERVOIR: trout, bass, crappie
Trout fishing has picked up. Reservoir is 20 percent full. Campground is closed.
VEE LAKE:
Angling is slow in Vee Lake. Winter conditions should close access soon, be prepared.
WARM SPRINGS RESERVOIR: smallmouth bass, white crappie, catfish, perch, and hatchery rainbow trout
The reservoir was 6 percent full Nov. 23. Inflows ranged from 57 cfs to 73 cfs from Nov. 19 through Nov. 24. Fishing is slow.
WARNER LAKES: black crappie, brown bullhead, yellow perch
Fishing for crappie and perch has been slow.
WILLIAMSON RIVER (UPPER): redband trout and brook trout
The river closed Oct. 31.
WILLIAMSON RIVER (LOWER):
The river closed Oct. 31.
WILLOW VALLEY RESERVOIR: Largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, yellow perch
Angling for warmwater fish has been slow.
WITHERS LAKE: brown trout, brook trout
Access is still open, brook trout fishing has improved and brown trout fishing has declined.
WOLF CREEK RESERVOIR: crappie, trout
Fishing is fair for 11 to 14-inch trout. Reservoir is 40 percent full.
WOOD RIVER AND TRIBUTARIES: redband trout, brown trout, brook trout, yellow perch
The river closed Oct. 31.
YELLOWJACKET LAKE: trout
Fair angling for 10 to 13-inch rainbow trout if ice conditions allow angling. Skim ice is forming on the lake.
SOUTHEAST ZONE HUNTING
OPEN: Pheasant, waterfowl (Zone 2 duck closed Dec. 1-2), chukar, hun, quail, forest grouse (closes Nov. 30), crow, mountain quail (Klamath County only), bear (closes Nov. 30), cougar
Visit the Region's Fall Hunting Forecast
Remember to check with Ore. Dept. of Forestry, the Forest Service, BLM or other land managers about fire restrictions before going hunting; restrictions can change suddenly.
HARNEY COUNTY
WATERFOWL season is open. Hunting on Malheur National Wildlife Refuge's Malheur Lake Hunt Area is expected to be slow due to extremely low water conditions in Malheur Lake. Hunting should be fair on local BLM reservoirs and on private land in the Harney basin.
CHUKAR and CALIFORNIA QUAIL seasons are open. Early season hunters have noted similar numbers of birds compared to last year, but larger covey sizes resulting from better than average production. Upland brood surveys conducted in July and August indicated good reproduction in most areas, however the number of birds observed was still quite low. Hunting is expected to be fair throughout the season.
PHEASANT seasons are open. Hunting is best around agricultural areas where access is predominantly on private lands. Public access to pheasant and quail hunting is available through the Lawen Access and Habitat Area south of Burns. Maps of the area can be found on the ODFW website at http://www.dfw.state.or.us/resources/hunting/map/index.asp
The Malheur National Wildlife Refuge's Buena Vista Hunt Area opened Saturday Nov. 15. The area is open to pheasant, quail and partridge, and remains open till the end of pheasant season (Dec 14).
COUGAR hunting is now open. Populations in Southeast Zone are healthy. Don't forget successful hunters must check-in cougars no more than 10 days after harvest.
KLAMATH COUNTY
WATERFOWL hunting on Upper Klamath Lake has been good for those hunters who have boats. Duck hunting should be good until colder weather pushes many birds south to wintering areas.
The last CHUKAR releases on the Lower Klamath Hills south of Klamath Falls occurred week of Nov. 10. The Lower Klamath Hills is located 10 miles south of Klamath Falls accessed from Lower Lake Road. Hunters must walk into the hunt area from the lower BLM access point along Lower Lake Road.
Good opportunities exist for California QUAIL hunting. Best prospects are in foothill areas next to agricultural lands. Hunters can also find mountain quail primarily in the Cascades. Hunters are reminded the daily bag limit for mountain quail in Klamath County is 2.
PHEASANTS were released at the Klamath Wildlife Area (See Below). The local chapter of Unlimited Pheasants will be releasing pheasants on selected private lands as well through Thanksgiving weekend. Call 541-891-3551 for membership information.
BEAR season continues and good opportunities exist. Bears are being taken in the Keno, West Sprague, and West Fort Rock Units in the Cascade Mountains. Remember that check-in is now mandatory for successful hunters. Remember season closes Nov. 30.
Fair prospects exist for FOREST GROUSE for those hunters wishing to pursue these birds. Best prospects for blue grouse are on semi-open ridge tops throughout the county, while ruffed grouse can be found along riparian areas primarily in the Cascades. Remember season closes Nov. 30.
COUGAR season remains open with good populations, although hunting will be difficult until late fall when colder weather improves conditions to locate animals. Remember check-in is mandatory for successful hunters.
The Klamath County Museum is looking for native animal specimens to use in a new forestry exhibit. Hunters who harvest a particularly impressive game mammal-particularly a Rocky Mtn elk, mule deer or black bear-this fall should consider donating it to the museum. Smaller mammals, birds, reptiles and fish native to the Upper Klamath Basin are also needed. The museum will cover the cost of taxidermy but special care needs to be taken in handling the hide of the animal. Call (541) 883-4208 for more information.
KLAMATH WILDLIFE AREA
Klamath WA Waterfowl Hunting Stats
Gorr Island, Shoalwater Bay and Sesti Tgawaals Point Units:
No permit required and open daily during authorized hunting seasons.
Miller Island Unit:
Waterfowl hunting on the Miller Island Unit has been slow due to weather. Colder nights have caused many ponds to ice over diminishing the use by most diving and dabbling ducks.
Hunting is by permit only. Entry permits shall be in possession while in the field; checkout is required. The check station is located under the area light on Miller Island Rd. The check station is staffed by ODFW personnel in the mornings on hunt days until Dec. 14, and is a self-service station in the afternoons and all day on hunt days after Dec. 14. The check station opens 1-1/2 hours before waterfowl shooting time.
Hunting dates for Miller Island will be even-numbered days in November and December and odd-numbered days in January.
Upland game bird shooting hours are from 8 a.m. until the close of waterfowl shooting hours.
Reminder: No person shall use or possess any shot other than federally-approved nontoxic shot while in the Miller Island Unit.
Throughout the pheasant season a pheasant release program will occur. These birds have been donated by Unlimited Pheasants and will be released into subunits A, B and C for weekend hunt days only until Thanksgiving weekend.
» Subunit A: North of Miller Island Rd and east of Delameter Rd hunting is permitted until 1 p.m. through Dec. 14. From Oct. 11 - Dec. 14, hunter numbers will be limited to 35 at any one time.
» Subunit B: West of Delameter and Miller Island rds hunting is permitted until 1 p.m. through Dec. 14. From Oct. 11 - Dec. 14 hunter numbers will be limited to 35 at any one time.
» Subunit C: East and south of Miller Island Rd hunting is permitted all day. From Oct.11 - Dec. 14 hunter numbers will be limited to 35 until 1 p.m. After 1 p.m. hunting is allowed with a self-service permit available at a check station located on Miller Island Rd, West
Klamath Wildlife Area is closed to deer hunting.
Some wetland units in Subunit B are dry to facilitate habitat management activities to reduce encroaching bulrush and cattail and increase open water for waterfowl and shorebird use.
The gravel access road and boat ramp on Miller Island Unit of the Klamath Wildlife Area will be closed intermittently until December 1 to allow for road work and boat ramp and dock improvements. Alternate facilities are available at Veteran's Park in Klamath Falls. Access will be allowed on weekends and occasionally after project work hours for recreationists to launch and retrieve boats.
The improvement project was made possible through grants received from the Oregon State Marine Board (OSMB) and the Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife (ODFW) Sport Fish Restoration Fund. The ODFW grant paid for 50 percent of the cost, and the Marine Board grant covered 50 percent. This project includes grading, widening and straightening of the gravel access road, replacing the boat dock and ramp, and development of a wheelchair accessible parking area and boarding dock. This will make the boat ramp and road safer for the public to use.
Dog training may occur on the entire area except for posted Safety Zones. Overnight camping is not allowed on the Miller Island Unit. If you have any questions, please contact Klamath Wildlife Area at (541) 883-5734.
LAKE COUNTY
PHEASANT populations are naturally low in the county.
CHUKAR and CALIFORNIA QUAIL numbers are higher than last year but still below the long term average. Hunters will find spotty distribution across the better habitats. All of the desert rims in will have some birds. Hunters are reminded that quail hunting is closed on Hart Mountain National Antelope Refuge
FOREST GROUSE hunting is open through Nov. 30. The best areas for blue and ruffed grouse are in the Cascades on Winema National Forest. Blue grouse can be found along ridge tops in more open forest habitats in both Klamath and Lake Counties while ruffed grouse are generally found along riparian areas, with few ruffed grouse found in Lake Co.
BEAR hunting is open through Nov. 30. Bear numbers are lower in Southeast zone than in other portions of the state due to limited habitat but populations are stable to increasing. Look in forested areas within the zone. Remember bear check-in is now mandatory.
COUGAR hunting is now open. Populations in Southeast Zone are healthy. Remember check-in is mandatory for successful hunters.
COYOTES are starting to concentrate on big game winter ranges. They respond well to calling, and hunters should focus efforts in sage brush areas, natural openings in forest habitats, or big game winter ranges. Hunters should be aware that cougars will respond to predator calls.
WATERFOWL hunting has been slow due to low water in the Warner Valley lakes and other major lakes in the county. The Warner Wetlands are dry. Flagstaff, Hart and Crump lakes are less than half full and hunters will need to bring blind material with them to set up on mudflats next to the waters edge. See Summer Lake's report below for information about the wildlife area.
SUMMER LAKE WILDLIFE AREA
This section of the report was last updated Nov. 25.
Sixth week WATERFOWL hunting season was slow. Hunter participation was down about -30.7% from the previous year and success (birds per hunter or bph) was down -34.2%. All WATERFOWL, Am. coot and snipe seasons will be CLOSED on Dec. 1st and 2nd. Duck, Am. coot and snipe seasons will reopen on Dec. 3rd. Goose Seasons will remain closed until Dec. 13th.
Summer Lake WA Waterfowl Statistics
Weather conditions during the week remained very mild. Towards the end of the week a minor storm system brought a small amount of precipitation, but winds were very calm. Low temperatures dropped below freezing into the low 20's, but high temperatures ranged from 70 to 50 degrees and skim ice disappeared quickly.
Hunter check-in totaled 165 and with 92.7% checkout, the reported harvest was 160 birds (133 ducks, 20 geese, 2 Am. coot, and 5 CA quail) for the past week.
Duck harvest consisted of 40 mallards, 31 Am. wigeon, 18 bufflehead, 14 N. shoveler, 12 gadwall, 10 Am. green-winged teal, and 8 total ducks for 6 other species. The duck per hunter average was 0.90, up 29.7% from 2007.
Goose harvest consisted of 11 snows, 3 white-fronts, 3 Canadas and Ross' and averaged 0.14 geese per hunter which was down -83.8% from the same week last year. Other species harvest was very low with just 2 Am. coots reported. California quail harvest (5) was up from the previous year when none were reported taken.
On Wednesday Nov. 19 about 24,800 ducks and 10,100 geese were observed on the weekly count. The next count is scheduled for Nov. 26 and results will be posted shortly thereafter on the Wildlife Area's telephone answering machine and department website.
Prospects for the upcoming weekend are only fair and very dependent on favorable weather conditions. Recent mild weather conditions continue and hunting success will probably continue to be slow. Pass shooting remains very poor, but those hunting over decoys and moving away from dikes are experiencing fair to good success. All waterfowl, Am. coot and snipe season will be CLOSED on Monday and Tuesday, Dec. 1st and 2nd following the weekend. Duck, Am. coot and snipe season will reopen on Dec. 3rd but Goose seasons will remain closed until Dec. 13th!
Free daily hunting permits are required for all hunters and are available at the Wildlife Area (WA) Headquarters 24 hours/day. Self service permits can be obtained in the lobby (please follow directions carefully) or will be issued by WA staff at the office counter. Check-out is mandatory and can be accomplished by dropping off permits in boxes found at each campground, major access areas and at Headquarters at the end of the day.
Hunters need to sure they have current hunting licenses, waterfowl and/or upland validations, Harvest Information Program (HIP) validations and a signed Federal Duck Stamp (if 16 year of age or older). Youth hunters under 18 years of age must have a Hunter Education Card in their possession while in the field.
Hunters need to be aware that the River Ranch Unit will be dry during the 2008-09 hunting season due to marsh management and vegetation control activities. Hunting is still permitted in this 530 acre unit, but over-water and pond hunting opportunities will be affected.
Construction activities for habitat enhancement in E. Link Unit are scheduled to begin on December 1 and continue through most of the month. Heavy truck traffic and machinery maybe encountered along Thousand Springs Lane and on the River Ranch Road. Hunters in these areas are urged to exercise great caution.
Please contact Summer Lake Wildlife Area at (541) 943-3152 or email martin.j.stlouis@state.or.us for additional information.
MALHEUR COUNTY
The majority of PHEASANTS occupy private lands, so ability to access quality habitat will influence hunting success.
UPLAND BIRD production in Malheur County was mixed this year. Chukar production was good at 2.8 chicks per adult but overall population trend was down from last year. Pheasant numbers appear to be on par with last season. California quail production was good, the best hunting occurs on or adjacent to agricultural areas and in the brushy riparian zones in the Malheur river drainage. A&H and the Malheur County Pheasants Forever Chapter have leased the Ontario City Water Treatment Property and hunters have been successful hunting pheasants, quail, ducks and geese.
Good public WATERFOWL and upland bird hunting is available on the Snake River with a jet boat, or other floating device. Shallow water will limit access with propeller driven boats. More birds continue to move into the area but are still dispersed through the valley on farm ponds, irrigation ditches and reservoirs. When things start freezing up waterfowl will concentrate on the Snake and Malheur Rivers. Many of the islands in the river are part of the Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge and are open to hunting. Additional information is available on their website www.fws.gov/deerflat/index.htm
COUGAR hunting is now open. Populations in Southeast Zone are healthy. Remember check-in is mandatory for successful hunters.
NORTHEAST ZONE
FISHING
Note: The 2009 Sport Fishing Regulations have been printed and are now available at all ODFW offices and retail outlets. Pick up a copy today!
Weekend fishing opportunities:
* Opportunities look fair for steelhead fishing on the lower Grande Ronde and lower Imnaha rivers for anglers willing to brave the early morning cold. Anglers should watch for ice.
* Steelhead fishing on the Umatilla River should continue to improve as flows increase.
ALDRICH PONDS: trout
Closed.
GRANDE RONDE, WALLOWA, IMNAHA RIVERS AND TRIBUTARIES: steelhead
Steelhead angling in the lower Grande Ronde and lower Imnaha Rivers is fair. Angling conditions have improved as river flows declined. Anglers averaged 7.5 hours per fish in last week's surveys of the lower Grande Ronde steelhead fishery. Check river flow at: http://waterdata.usgs.gov/or/nwis/current/?type=flow
JOHN DAY RIVER: bass, steelhead
Steelhead angling is now good up to Clarno with a daily limit of two fin-clipped fish. Smallmouth bass and channel catfish angling is slow due to cooler water.
Closed to trout angling Oct. 31.
KINNEY LAKE: trout
Fishing at Kinney Lake closed Oct. 31, 2008, and will open again on May 23, 2009.
MAGONE LAKE: trout
Fishing for rainbow and brook trout is fair. Watch for thin ice.
McKAY RESERVOIR:
Anglers are reminded McKay Reservoir is closed to all angling from Oct. 1 n April 30.
MORGAN LAKE: trout, bullheads, crappie
The lake is closed to fishing until next spring.
ROWE CREEK RESERVOIR, BULL PRAIRIE RESERVOIR, TROUT FARM POND, LONG CREEK POND, CAVENDER POND: trout
Fishing for rainbow trout is fair. These reservoirs and ponds are open all year but only stocked each spring.
UMATILLA RIVER: steelhead, coho, fall chinook jacks
Steelhead angling should continue to improve as flows increase, the steelhead return to Threemile Dam is currently at 677 for the season. With the completion of fish passage improvements at Feed Canal Dam all steelhead are being released directly above Threemile Dam. Angling for jack coho and fall chinook is winding down, most fish are dark, the salmon season remains open through November 30.
WALLOWA LAKE: rainbow trout
Wallowa Lake still contains legal-sized rainbow from earlier stocking activities. Trout fishing is fair to good for boat and bank anglers using bait or lures.
WILLOW CREEK RESERVOIR: trout
Angling for rainbow trout is fair.
A health advisory has been issued for high levels of blue-green algae in Willow Creek Reservoir. The Oregon Department of Human Services recommends that if people choose to eat fish from waters where algae blooms are present, they should remove all fat, skin and organs from the fish before cooking. For local information contact the US Army Corps of Engineers Natural Resource Management Office at (541) 676-9009. For health information, contact Ken Kauffman, DHS Environmental Health Specialist at (971)673-0435.
NORTHEAST ZONE HUNTING
OPEN: Pheasant, waterfowl (Zone 2 duck closed Dec. 1-2), chukar, hun, California quail, forest grouse (closes Nov. 30), crow, bear (closes Nov. 30) and cougar
Visit the NE Fall Hunting Forecast
Wolves may be present in northeast Oregon
On July 18, 2008 a wolf pack with pups was confirmed in northern Union County. Wolves are listed under Oregon's Endangered Species Act and also protected by federal law. It is unlawful to shoot them. Coyote hunters in northeastern Oregon need to take extra care to identify their target as wolves can look like coyotes, especially wolf pups in the mid-summer and fall.
ODFW needs hunters' assistance to establish wolves' presence in Oregon; please report any wolf sightings or wolf sign to La Grande office (541) 963-2138 or online.
BAKER COUNTY
UPLAND BIRDS had a rough winter but those that nested this spring had large broods. While production is still down from the long term average due to low numbers last year, things are heading in the right direction.
GOOSE season is open. With the onset of colder weather hunters should have good success. A handful of DUCKS are also around on area ponds and rivers; numbers should increase with the colder weather. For best success try the Powder River or area around Phillips Reservoir.
FOREST GROUSE season is open until Nov. 30. Ruffed grouse can be found in dense riparian shrub cover while blue grouse can be found at higher elevations in more open coniferous forests.
BEAR and COUGAR seasons are open. Remember both cougar and bear check-in are now mandatory. Bear hunters have been doing well using spot and stalk tactics; season closes Nov. 30.
COYOTE numbers are good throughout the district. Remember to ask for permission before hunting on private properties.
GRANT COUNTY
CHUKAR, HUN, WATERFOWL, QUAIL seasons are open. The South Fork of the John Day River is a good area to hunt these. Look for blue and ruffed GROUSE at higher elevations in the draws; grouse season closes Nov. 30. Most valley quail is found on John Day Valley private lands. Mountain Quail can be found in the south fork area in brushy draws near water sources.
BEAR and COUGAR seasons are now open. Populations of both appear to be increasing, and the Desolation unit should be a good area to find both this fall. Remember check-in is mandatory for successful hunters for both bear and cougar; see the regulations for details. Bear season closes Nov. 30.
COYOTES may be responding well to calls. Good areas to try are the South Fork of the John Day and on private lands between Dayville and John Day. Make sure to ask permission before hunting private lands.
MORROW, GILLIAM and WHEELER COUNTIES
UPLAND GAME BIRD population numbers are similar to last year. Doves are up, pheasant, huns, and California quail are up slightly, chukar are down. All are still below average and the number of chicks per brood was down for all species. Unusually cold weather and late rains are the primary cause; getting chicks through the spring seems to have been a challenge. Hunters will need to be prepared to cover some ground to find birds this season. Finding birds is do-able, shooting a limit will be tougher to accomplish.
To COYOTE hunt, find a good location with fresh coyote sign, preferably in an area of little human activity. Watch wind direction to help prevent giving away your location. Using fawn distress type calls, in addition to rabbit, can be very effective.
BEAR and COUGAR seasons are now open. Cougar numbers are increasing in most areas. Bear numbers are increasing in the Heppner and Fossil units but populations are still relatively low compared to other areas of northeast Oregon. Remember check-in is mandatory for successful hunters for both bear and cougar; see the regulations for details. Bear season closes Nov. 30.
UMATILLA COUNTY
Mountain QUAIL hunters will find the largest number of birds in the side drainages of the North Fork John Day River. It will be a down year for PHEASANTS; biologists did not see many broods. HUNS can be found in the foothills of the Blues. There are a few CHUKAR but most hunting is on private land.
WATERFOWL hunting is slowly beginning to improve as fall migrants trickle into the Basin. Goose hunting along the river and in agricultural circles with either wheat or alfalfa are good bets; for some excellent upland game bird or waterfowl hunting try the Columbia Basin Wildlife Areas.
BEAR and COUGAR seasons are now open. Bear density is highest north of Interstate 84. Cougar populations are high. Remember check-in is mandatory for successful hunters for both bear and cougar; see the regulations for details. Bear season closes Nov. 30.
High numbers of COYOTES can be found in the lower elevation forested areas of Umatilla County on public land. Calling will produce a number of opportunities in coyote concentration areas. Looking for tracks along roads or ridgelines will provide a good indication of the presence of coyotes in any specific area.
UNION COUNTY
DUCK production in the Grande Ronde Valley was set back from flooding early in the nesting season. Luckily, re-nesting success has been good which should result in an average harvest year for hunters on local birds.
GAME BIRDS n Quail/ Chukar/Hun./Grouse and Pheasant seasons are currently open. As cold weather approaches, look for grouse feeding on elder and snow berries. The wet weather last spring appeared to have been hard on upland bird chicks. Summer brood counts demonstrated less young quail, huns and pheasant than normal. Union County has very few chukars. Pheasant hunters may have to work harder to fill game vests this season but efforts should produce hold over birds. Forest grouse season closes Nov. 30.
Fall TURKEY hunting has been very productive for those with tags. Contact the Northeast Regional Office @ 541-963-2138 for information on landowners with fall turkey damage.
BEAR and COUGAR hunting are open. Numbers are good in all units. Hunters may encounter a deer or elk killed by a bear or cougar. Setting up about 150 yards downwind of the kill site during the twilight hours may be productive. Hunters must have a valid, unused elk tag to hunt bear or cougar with a modern rifle during rifle elk season. Always prop the mouth wide open on harvested cougars and bears, this saves time when biologists pull a tooth. Hunters bringing in frozen heads with the jaw shut will be asked to return at a later date with the jaw open. Remember the new rule; all harvested bears must be checked in within 10 days of harvest. Bear season closes Nov. 30.
COYOTE - Numbers are strong throughout the county. Using predator calls as a lure and moving call sights after 20 minutes is an effective method for harvesting coyotes. Be sure to ask permission before hunting on private land.
LADD MARSH WILDLIFE AREA
WATERFOWL conditions continue to be considerably better than last year. The key to waterfowl hunting at Ladd Marsh is wind conditions. Staff recommends that hunters check weather conditions on the internet. If high winds are forecast for Ladd and Pyles Canyon, hunting should be good.
High numbers of swans are currently using the area. Hunters are reminded to be careful of their target and not mistake swans for snow geese. Taking protected wildlife such as swans, even by accident, is a violation of wildlife laws.
UPLAND BIRD hunting will be fair to good. Cold and wet conditions existed through most of June with several days never reaching 50 degrees. Snow was recorded in the valley on June 10. These conditions can be devastating to young pheasant broods. Some re-nesting did occur, but it never makes up for the early nests. The wet spring and summer conditions did create heavy cover, so dogs are highly recommended.
WALLOWA DISTRICT
Controlled antlerless ELK seasons in the Imnaha and Sled Springs units opened Saturday Nov. 22. Weather conditions are forecasted to be mild with chance of snow at higher elevations later in the week. Hunter success is expected to be good in both units.
Blue and ruffed GROUSE season closes Nov. 30.
CHUKAR numbers are well below average and will be widely scattered. Best areas are public lands adjacent to the Snake River. California QUAIL had good hatching success this year and hunters can find good numbers of quail on agricultural lands throughout the Wallowa Valley. PHEASANT numbers are low.
DUCK hunting has started to improve with additional migrants showing up in the valley. Currently jump shooting ponds and other open water, or locating birds feeding in agricultural fields provides best success.
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.
COUGAR numbers are still strong through out the district. Hunters will improve chances of success by locating a recent kill site and calling in the area or waiting for a lion to return to a cached carcass.
TRAVEL MANAGEMENT: Noregaard, Whiskey Creek, and Shamrock vehicle road closures will be in effect in the Sled Springs units.
NORTHEAST ZONE VIEWING
BAKER COUNTY
Bighorn sheep can be seen along the Burnt River Canyon west of Durkee or along the Snake River Road south of Richland. Rams are in full rut and can be seen near ewe lambs groups. Please enjoy the rutting activity but do not disturb the animals. Mountain Goats can bee seen along the crest of the Elkhorn Mountains. With the onset of cold weather at higher elevations most goats have shed their summer coats and are in full winter attire. For the best viewing opportunities take the short hike to the Twin Lakes basin. Nannies can be distinguished from Billies by their horn curvature and body size.
GILLIAM, MORROW AND WHEELER COUNTIES
Rough-legged hawks, prairie falcons, and short-eared owls can all be seen in the lower foothills. To spot them just keep an eye out for perched birds on the power poles and fence posts. One can still spot mountain bluebirds in the higher foothills. Most of the neo-tropical birds have migrated already. Song sparrows, dark-eyed juncos, and the rest of our common winter residents are here. Flocks of geese flying over head are getting more common. Flocks are predominantly Canadas and a few white-fronted geese. Ducks have not started to arrive in numbers yet on the waterways of the district.
Elk can be seen from Heppner/Spray junction on Highway 19. Best time is dusk, watch the hill sides south of the river. Elk can be seen from the junction to Kimberly.
UNION COUNTY
As the snow starts to fly on Elkhorn Wildlife Area, the elk will start to arrive at the Anthony Creek feed site. During late November/early December elk can be seen from the view point at that feed site.
Consider a short driving tour from Elgin north to Palmer valley. Early morning or dusk time periods are best. Turkeys should be moving towards Elgin and whitetail deer and elk may be seen along the loop roads in Palmer Valley.
For a fairly long driving tour, try going up the Grande Ronde River through Vey meadows, North Fork John Day Campground, Anthony Lakes ski area then down to North powder. This would be great in the early morning or late evening. You could see elk deer possibly a bear, grouse, and a great variety of smaller birds.
ODFW's Ladd Marsh Wildlife Area, La Grande
The Tule Lake Public Access Area is now closed for the season and the waterfowl and upland bird hunting seasons have opened. During these hunting seasons, Ladd Marsh Wildlife Area is open to public access Saturday, Sunday, Wednesday and State holidays.
High numbers of tundra swans have arrived at Ladd Marsh. As many as 130 swans have been present on the wildlife area with most visible from Foothill Road. Please report neck-banded swans to wildlife area staff. Two western grebes and a few long-billed dowitchers were recently seen on Ladd Marsh. The best place to watch for these and other potential migrants is from Peach Road south of Wilkinson. The large shallow flat visible from the road attracts a wide variety of waterbirds.
Waterfowl continue to be present in large numbers. Mallards are most numerous but American wigeon, ring-necked duck, gadwall, northern shoveler, ruddy duck, northern pintail, common goldeneye, green-winged teal and bufflehead have also been seen.
Three lesser sandhill cranes have recently been observed in the shallow flats east of and visible from Peach Road. Please report any banded sandhill cranes observed to wildlife area staff, 541-963-4954. Banded cranes may have colored bands on both legs; it is important to note the combination and position of the color bands and which leg they were on.
Birds are not the only wildlife to be seen on Ladd Marsh. As the weather turns more winter-like, elk will begin their daily movements from higher elevation timber to lower elevation areas on the wildlife area. Deer may also become more visible on the slopes above Foothill Road. A few pronghorn are also on the wildlife area. The best opportunity to see them is from Hot Lake Lane.
There are numerous quality viewing opportunities from the roads that pass through the area. Binoculars or a spotting scope will help as many animals are best viewed from a distance.
Dogs are not permitted within the Wildlife Area, on or off leash except on hunt days during authorized hunting seasons. For more information on access rules for the Ladd Marsh Wildlife Area, please consult the 2008-2009 Oregon Game Bird Regulations.
UMATILLA COUNTY
Riparian areas, from low to high, will have a good number of species of passerines including sparrows, towhees, juncos, numerous finches and wrens for people to observe or photograph.
Fall is an opportune time to get out and observe and photograph a variety of wildlife species. Deer and elk are active in the early morning and late afternoon. White-tailed deer and mule deer can be seen in the lower elevation agricultural areas of the County whereas elk will be common to see in small openings in large canyon areas of the Umatilla National Forest.
Flocks of ducks and geese can be seen along the Columbia River and large reservoirs in the County as they begin to arrive for winter.
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 fall moves into winter, gulls and raptors including bald eagles will start to 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 mallards and mergansers can be seen traveling in flocks up and down the river systems that have cottonwood trees along the banks.
WALLOWA COUNTY
Bald Eagles
Bald eagles are common in the Wallowa Valley during winter months. Eagles can often be observed from Highway 82 in the vicinity of the Wallowa River. The Wallowa River in the Minam canyon is another good place to observe eagles.
Raptors
Several species of raptors, including red-tailed, rough-legged, and ferruginous hawks, can be observed during winter months in the Wallowa Valley. Most raptors can be easily observed from county roads. A good pair of binoculars will improve viewing opportunities.
Rocky Mountain Elk
Elk can be observed on the Wenaha Wildlife Area. Eden Bench, southwest of Troy, is a good area to view elk early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
Bighorn Sheep
Bighorn sheep can often be observed along the canyon walls of the Grande Ronde River when driving both up and down stream from the town of Troy.
SNAKE RIVER ZONE
FISHING
Note: The 2009 Sport Fishing Regulations have been printed and are now available at all ODFW offices and retail outlets. Pick up a copy today!
BROWNLEE RESERVOIR: crappie, bass, catfish, bluegill, trout, perch
Crappie fishing has been very good all summer and continue to bite well. Most fish are 6-9 inches but larger crappie can be found adjacent to cliff edges. White jigs with crappie nibbles have been working well. Large catfish are being caught in the Powder River Arm with worms and cut-bait. Bass and perch are on the bottom in 30-40 feet of water. Bass are biting on plastic grubs and gitzits. Perch are in schools but angling is good once you find them. Water level is 35 feet below full. Call Idaho Power Company's recording at 1-800-422-3143 to get information on access at recreational sites or visit their Web site under the "Rivers and Recreation" heading.
Reservoir level information
OXBOW RESERVOIR: trout, crappie, bass, catfish
Catfish and trout angling is good. Crappie fishing has been good all summer. Perch are in schools, so fishing is spotty. Bass fishing has been very good also. Cooler temperatures should be better for trout angling.
HELLS CANYON RESERVOIR: trout, crappie, bass, catfish
Good angling for crappie, bass, and catfish. Crappie are generally in back eddies and along steep banks. Trout angling has picked up.
SNAKE RIVER below HELLS CANYON RESERVOIR: trout, smallmouth bass
Trout and smallmouth bass fishing have been very good below the dam. Some 16 inch bass are being caught. Steelhead fishing opened Sept. 1 for adipose clipped fish, and a few are being caught. Get updated information on flow levels.
SNAKE RIVER (Above Brownlee Reservoir): channel catfish, flathead catfish, smallmouth bass
Flows near Nyssa ranged from approximately 6,500 to 8,500 cfs from Nov. 19 through Nov. 24. Flows near Weiser ranged from approximately 9,200 to 10,500 cfs from Nov. 19 through Nov. 24. Catch rates are slowing due to cooler water temperatures.
COLUMBIA ZONE
COLUMBIA FISHING
Weekend Fishing Opportunities
* The John Day Arm is producing a good number of steelhead for boat anglers.
* Sturgeon anglers fishing the gorge are seeing the highest number of legal white sturgeon.
Effective Saturday Sept. 20, 2008 through Dec. 31, 2008 or until further notice chinook retention is allowed from the boundary marker on the lower end of Bachelor Island to the Warrior Rock Lighthouse upstream to Bonneville Dam.
The daily bag limit on fall chinook salmon in the Columbia River below Bonneville dam increases to two fish, effective Thursday, Sept. 25 through the remainder of the year. The bag limit was increased following reports that showed continued improvement in projected fall chinook population estimates. This action follows the recent decision to reopen the fall chinook season below Bonneville dam and let it run until the end of the year, subject to ongoing review of run sizes.
The extended season and increased bag limit apply to the Columbia River from the Warrior Rock-Bachelor Island line above the mouth of the Lewis River upstream to Bonneville dam. As a result of these actions, anglers may keep up to two chinook, coho and steelhead per day in combination. Retained chinook do not have to be fin-clipped. However, any coho or steelhead must be adipose fin-clipped in order to be retained, as prescribed under permanent fishing regulations.
Adipose-clipped coho and steelhead may also be kept in the Columbia River below its confluence with the Lewis River.
Buoy 10 to Tongue Point remains closed to all salmon and steelhead angling.
Columbia River Fish Counts:
https://www.nwp.usace.army.mil/op/fishdata/home.asp
Regulations:
http://www.dfw.state.or.us/resources/fishing/reg_changes/columbia.asp
SALMON, STEELHEAD AND SHAD:
Steelhead fishing was good this past week for boat anglers fishing the John Day Arm. The salmonid creel program on the lower Columbia has ended for the year and will resume February of 2009.
Gorge Bank:
No report.
Gorge Boats:
No report.
Troutdale Boats:
No report.
Portland to Longview Boats:
No report.
Portland to Rainier Bank:
No report.
Estuary Boat (Above Tongue Point):
No report.
John Day Pool (Columbia River above John Day Dam and John Day Arm):
Weekly checking showed one adipose fin-clipped steelhead kept for six bank anglers; and 14 adipose fin-clipped steelhead kept, plus 19 unclipped steelhead released for 53 boats.
STURGEON:
Catch rates were slow for sturgeon anglers on the lower Columbia this past weekend.
Gorge Bank:
Weekly checking showed eight legal white sturgeon kept, plus one legal, five oversize, and 21 sublegal sturgeon released for 111 bank anglers.
Gorge Boats:
Weekly checking showed two legal white sturgeon kept and 98 sublegal sturgeon released for 15 boats (complete trips).
Troutdale Boats:
Weekly checking showed 18 sublegal sturgeon released for six boats (complete trips).
St. Helens Bank:
Weekend checking showed one sublegal sturgeon released for three bank anglers.
Portland Boats:
Weekend checking showed no catch for one boat (complete trip).
MARINE ZONE
MARINE FISHING
Note: The 2009 Sport Fishing Regulations have been printed and are now available at all ODFW offices and retail outlets. Pick up a copy today!
Fishing for rockfish, lingcod and other groundfish species is good when weather and ocean conditions permit. Boat anglers may not retain cabezon until Jan. 1.
A list of fish included in the six-fish marine bag limit and waypoints for the 40-fathom line can be found in the 2008 Oregon Sport Ocean Regulations for Salmon, Halibut and Other Marine Fish Species and online at http://www.dfw.state.or.us/mrp
Remember: yelloweye rockfish and canary rockfish may not be retained. The Stonewall Bank Yelloweye Rockfish Conservation Area approximately 15 miles west of Newport is closed to the harvest of rockfish, lingcod, flatfish and others.
All salmon and Pacific halibut fishing in the ocean is closed.
SHELLFISH
Starting Nov. 25 and continuing through the end of the month, there will be a series of low tides just after sundown. To check on Oregon's tides go to http://www.protides.com/oregon/.
Shellfish biologists worry that diggers on Clatsop beaches may be disappointed in the size of what they find when they return to the most productive razor clam beaches in the state. The clams are small because of a late set, probably as a result of the massive storm systems last winter. During ODFW's summer clam surveys the average size was less than 3 inches. While clams are small there are a lot of them and they are just as good to eat as larger clams. Some diggers consider the smaller clams less desirable because there is not as much meat and the shells are more fragile than a larger razor clam making the smaller clams more difficult to clean.
Shellfish regulations require diggers to keep the first 15 razor clams dug, regardless of size or condition. Reburying a razor clam, even if its shell is unbroken, usually results in the clam's death.
Check out the recreational clam pages on the ODFW Web site: http://www.dfw.state.or.us/mrp/ then click on the shellfish icon. The pages contain everything you need to know for identifying and harvesting Oregon's clams.
The entire Oregon coast is closed to the recreational harvest of mussels due to elevated levels of paralytic shellfish poisoning or PSP toxins. The closure includes mussels on the beaches, rocks, jetties, and at the entrance to bays. In addition, only the adductor muscle of scallops are safe to eat; consumption of whole scallops from the recreational fishery is not recommended.
The recreational harvest of clams is open coastwide. Harvesters should check for current closures on the ODA shellfish safety page or call the shellfish hotline, 503-986-4728 or 1-800-448-2474. Waters can be closed on short notice because of contaminated waters due to coastal flooding and because of elevated levels of naturally occurring toxins.
CRABS
The crab harvest continues to be good to very good in most Oregon bays, however prolonged heavy rains may force crab out of some bays. Boat crabbers were successful with some getting limits in most of the bays surveyed last weekend. Recreational Bay Crab Survey data on catch statistics are updated about every two weeks on the ODFW Web site at the recently-launched "Crabbing Reports" page (http://www.dfw.state.or.us/MRP/shellfish/crab/reports.asp) This provides prospective crabbers some information on the recent success of other crabbers in the five bays that are sampled: Tillamook Bay, Netarts Bay, Yaquina Bay, Alsea Bay and Coos Bay.
Sport crabbing in the ocean opens Dec. 1.
Some sport crabbers have difficulty correctly measuring the minimum size for Dungeness crab, which is 5 3?4 inches measured in a straight line across the back immediately in front of, but not including, the points. For a photograph and diagram see page 101 of the Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations booklet.
MARINE ZONE VIEWING
November viewing
Bays and estuaries play host to several kinds of ducks and geese this time of year including surf scooters and harlequin ducks. The waterfowl attract bald eagles and you can often see them harassing the ducks.
Although the Rufous Hummingbird has flown south, the Oregon coast has mild enough weather for the Anna's Hummingbird stay the whole winter.
As many as 6,000 harbor seals, northern elephant seals, Steller sea lions, California sea lions haul out on Simpson's Reef this time of year. It is about the only place in Oregon where you can see all four of the state's pinnipeds in one place. The Simpson's Reef overlook, located in Cape Arago State Park just south of Coos Bay, provides breathtaking views of Shell Island and Simpson Reef, part of Oregon Islands National Wildlife Refuge. With a pair of binoculars or a spotting scope you can watch these marine mammals interact with each other and their environment.
Big Surf
Large waves buffet the Oregon coast this time of year providing an impressive display of the Pacific's majestic power. The big curlers hurl everything from large logs to small Japanese floats onto the beach making the days following a storm perfect for beach combing. Don't become so entranced by what you find that you stop paying attention to the ocean, however. A large wave could do more than just get you wet if it drags you out to sea or causes logs on the beach to shift and injure you. For your safety, don't turn your back on the ocean and stay off beached logs.
Sea Foam
Strong waves and wind injecting air into the ocean and the presence of dissolved organic matter can form sea foam. The organic matter is mostly made of dead phytoplankton. The protein from the phytoplankton gives the water enough surface tension to form bubbles. Surf and winds cause the bubbles to pile up in suds-like masses that are often blown up on the beach. Although this may look worrisome, it is a perfectly natural process that helps the ocean purify itself. Viewed under a microscope, sea foam contains the extraordinarily beautiful glass-like skeletons of the phytoplankton.