The Oregon Recreation Report (fishing, hunting, viewing), update Tuesday, April 24, by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife:
WILLAMETTE ZONE
FISHING
STOCKING SCHEDULE: South Willamette Watershed District: ODFW will stock Blue River (above reservoir) Carmen Reservoir, Clear Lake, Detroit Reservoir, EE Wilson Pond, Fall Creek, Foster Reservoir, Freeway Lake East, Green Peter Reservoir, Junction City Pond, Leaburg Lake, McKenzie (above Leaburg Lake) Salmon Creek, Smith Reservoir, Walling Pond, Walter Wirth Lake, Willamette River Coast Fork and Willamette River Middle Fork (above Hills Fork Reservoir) with Rainbow Trout the week of April 23. In the North Willamette Watershed Haldeman Pond, Henry Hagg Lake, Huddleston Pond, Salmonberry Lake, Sheridan Pond, Silver Creek Reservoir, Timothy Meadows and Trojan Ponds will be stocked the week of April 23. Huddleston Pond and Sheridan Pond will receive legal, larger and trophy size trout. As a special note, Timber Lake will be added back into the stocking schedule in the near future.
FISHING EVENTS: In the South Willamette Watershed, ODFW region staff is hosting their second youth angling event from 9:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Saturday, April 28 at Garden Lake. The North Willamette Watershed staff is also hosting their second youth angling event at Trojan Pond April 28 from 9:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Both events are free to the public. ODFW Angler Education instructors will be on hand to assist young anglers. All the supplies will be provided including rods, reels and bait.
Steelhead continue to trickle across Willamette Falls but this time of year that’s to be expected. A few new fish are showing up each day, but not in great numbers. The total for winter steelhead was 4,611 through April 19. The summer-run steelhead counted through April 19 total 633 that have moved past the falls. Water conditions in the mainstem Willamette and in both forks of the Santiam are good, but pressure remains relatively light. Angling effort is predominantly targeting Chinook as the peak salmon season is upon us. Over 500 Chinook have been counted over the falls and can be expected to start showing up in the lower Santiam at any time.
EE WILSON and JUNCTION CITY PONDS: ODFW will stock the week of April 23 with legal and larger size trout.
CLACKAMAS RIVER: Steelhead angling has been fair to slow in most of the river. Chinook fishing has also continued to be slow, due likely to the cold water temperatures. It’s also somewhat early for springers to be in the Clackamas in good numbers. The river has dropped in the past week. April 16 flows were at 2,830 cfs (12.59’) and the color was very good.
Bank anglers can find access to the river in the Gladstone/Cross Park area, at Carver near the mouth of Clear Creek, along Clackamas River Rd, at Barton Park, at Bonnie Lure Park, at McIver Park near Dog Creek, and from the McIver Park boat ramp on up to River Mill Dam.
Boaters should be aware that early winter high water events have made changes to the river that could surprise unsuspecting boat anglers. Be very cautious of debris as well, since recent high water has likely deposited trees and logs into the river.
COLUMBIA RIVER: From the Dalles Dam to the John Day Dam, sturgeon retention will close at midnight, Wednesday, March 28 effective through the end of the year. Catch-and-release angling for sturgeon in this stretch of the Columbia is allowed throughout the remainder of the year, except during May 1 through July 31, when sturgeon angling is prohibited from the west end of the grain silo located near Rufus upstream to John Day Dam, to protect oversize spawning sturgeon. Catch-and-release sturgeon angling in this sanctuary area re-opens August 1.
DETROIT, FOSTER, AND GREEN PETER RESERVOIRS have all been stocked with trout this spring and have been producing fair to good catches. All three reservoirs will be stocked with trout again the week of April 23. Success for kokanee at Green Peter has not yet been consistent, but should be picking up any time.
DORENA RESERVOIR was stocked the week of April 9 with 6,300 rainbow trout.
EAGLE CREEK: Angling effort is very low and the catch rate has slowed considerably as the winter run comes to close. The creek was running at moderate flows and clear over the weekend. Anglers should keep in mind that water conditions on Eagle Creek can play an important part in deciding the type and color of gear to choose. Be prepared with both bright and subtle colors of jigs or spinners. Anglers may also have success with sand shrimp or small egg clusters 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 from private property.
HENRY HAGG LAKE: Anglers have seen increased catches of legal-sized rainbow trout. Anglers will have better success fishing close to the shore. ODFW will stock 7,000 rainbow trout the week of April 23.
ROARING RIVER PARK POND, TIMBER LINN LAKE, AND WAVERLY LAKE in the Albany area were stocked with trout the week of April 16.
SANDY RIVER: Winter steelhead angling has been slow but some nice summer steelhead are now beginning to show up in the catch. Overall steelhead fishing has been slow in the lower Sandy. There continue to be good numbers of wild winter steelhead caught just below Marmot Dam. An occasional spring Chinook was reported in the lower Sandy the week of April 16 but the cold water is delaying that fishery. The conditions on Monday showed flows at 2,700 cfs (9.99’) and the water was a cool 47°.
The Sandy winter fish are now a later returning stock versus what anglers were used to a few years ago. This is a result of the wild broodstock program initiated under the current Sandy River fish management plan.
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. Please use nearby garbage cans for any other types of trash.
TIMBER LINN AND WAVERLY LAKES in the Albany area were stocked by ODFW the week of April 9.
FREEWAY LAKE will be stocked the week of April 23 with legal and larger size rainbow trout.
WALTER WIRTH LAKE and WALLING POND in Salem are being stocked by ODFW with trout the week of April 23 with legal and larger size trout.
WILLAMETTE RIVER: Spring Chinook fishing is showing some signs of improving but the water is still fairly cool. Conditions for April 23rd showed flows on the Willamette at 20,500 cfs, a water temperature of 51°, and the visibility at 4.6 feet.
There have been fair but increasing numbers of spring Chinook caught throughout the Willamette with fish taken from the lower Multnomah Channel all the way up to Oregon City. As is typical in mid-April anglers are still encountering pockets of fish in the river making the hot spot move from day to day. The Sellwood/Milwaukie area is one of the most consistently productive sections of river with the greatest fish per boat ratio in that part of the river. The West Linn/Oregon City area has also had some good catches although not consistent. Anglers should see improvement with warmer water heading into late April as the Chinook become more plentiful and spread out from the lower Willamette up to the falls in Oregon City.
Please note that the Willamette River, including Multnomah Channel, is open for the retention of sturgeon under recently modified rules. Effective February 1 the retention of sturgeon is allowed Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday of each week until July 31. Monday through Wednesday of each week angling for sturgeon is allowed, but on a catch and release basis only. Please also note that anglers are limited to the use of only one single-point barbless hook while angling for sturgeon.
There were several reports of keeper and sublegal sturgeon in the Willamette catch April 21 & 22. The downtown harbor area and the Milwaukie/Oregon City area experienced good sturgeon catches for boat anglers. Multnomah Channel was also the scene of some decent sturgeon angling. Bank fishing for sturgeon can be found at Meldrum Bar and at the wall in downtown Oregon City. Sturgeon angling from the bank was fair the week of April 16. Sturgeon anglers have used fresh smelt or herring as effective bait.
HUNTING
BLACK BEAR: Hunters are reporting limited success for spring black bears in both the Coast and Cascades. Hunters participating in the spring black bear hunts need to be persistent and spend time scouting for fresh sign to locate active bear feeding sites. Drive, walk, or bike areas with good bear habitat and look for fresh droppings or tracks. If you find fresh sign, hunt the area thoroughly.
TURKEY: Turkeys are tough to find in the North Willamette Watershed District and those hunters with access to private lands are having the best success. Hunters should not overlook the mid-day period when hunting turkeys. Hunters heading in for a late breakfast will leave the woods free of activity and allow the birds more freedom to be out and moving.
VIEWING
WILLAMETTE VALLEY: Bald eagles are active and easily located along Multnomah Channel and the Columbia River from Portland to Westport for bird watchers who have access to a boat. Bird watchers can expect to see 8-15 eagles during a day on our local rivers. Just remember to avoid disturbing them by keeping your distance and using your binoculars for viewing.
PEREGRINE FALCONS are entering their nesting season and can be seen in the Portland area on the Freemont and St. John’s bridges as well as in the South Willamette area around Rocky Top.
SAUVIE ISLAND WILDLIFE AREA (Portland): The Sauvie Island Wildlife Area is now open. The Eagles nest by Rentenaar Road has been vacated and the Eagles are rebuilding across Reeder road also outside the wildlife area. Haldeman Pond has been stocked with trout and is ready for fishermen both young and old. A parking permit is required for the Wildlife Area and can be purchased at several POS vendors. A daily permit is $3.50 and an annual permit is only $11.00.
FERN RIDGE WILDLIFE AREA (Eugene): All units are open to public use except a portion of the Fisher Butte to provide sanctuary during nesting season. Signs have been posted to clearly identify the levee boundary of the wildlife sanctuary area. Visitors are reminded that dogs are allowed but must remain on leash except during game bird hunting seasons.
E.E. WILSON WILDLIFE AREA (Monmouth): Spring shore bird migration is in full swing, with a diversity of species being observed throughout area wetlands. Both Western Canada Goose and Mallard broods have been observed on the area in the last week. More secretive species such as Bobcats and Black-tailed have been more frequently observed in the last two weeks. Osprey have returned to the angling pond with up to four being observed at the same time.
NORTHWEST ZONE
FISHING
YOUTH FISHING EVENT: ODFW and the Florence Step group will be hosting a free youth fishing event on April 28. The event will be held at Cleawox Lake which is located in Honeyman State Park approximately 3 miles south of Florence off Hwy 101. Fishing gear, bait and assistance will be provided by organizers for youth from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Saturday. The lake will be stocked with standard catchable and larger trophy rainbow trout. For additional information call 541-867-4741.
NORTH COAST LAKES: Sunset, Cullaby, and Lost lakes, and Vernonia Pond will be stocked during the week of April 30. Anglers should use caution when heading to Lost Lake (Clatsop County) as active logging and travel restrictions are in effect. Call the Tillamook office at 503-842-2741 for more information.
MID COAST LAKES: Week of April 23, ODFW will stock the following water bodies with catchable rainbow trout. In the Newport area: Big Creek Reservoirs 1 and 2, Olalla Reservoir. In the Florence area: Alder Lake, Buck Lake, Dune Lake, Elbow Lake, Lost Lake, Mercer Lake, Munsel Lake, Perkins Lake, Siltcoos Lagoon, Siltcoos Lake, Sutton Lake.
ALSEA RIVER: Hatchery steelhead returns have slowed considerably. Harvest of hatchery steelhead will be slow to fair through April but fair to good for catch and release of wild steelhead. Current river levels and forecasts can be found at http://www.nwrfc.noaa.gov/river/station/flowplot/flowplot.cgi?TIDO3.
NESTUCCA RIVER AND THREE RIVERS: Angling for winter steelhead has been slow to fair. There are still a few hatchery and wild winter steelhead available. Hatchery summer steelhead are showing in the catch on a regular basis, but overall fishing is slow. An early spring Chinook has been reported, but expect fishing to be slow during April. Before fishing, check river levels at http://ahps2.wrh.noaa.gov/ahps2/hydrograph.php?wfopqr
SALMON RIVER: Closed to fishing for salmon, steelhead and trout April 1 through May 25.
SILETZ RIVER: Winter steelhead fishing is slow to fair. Hatchery winter steelhead returns have slowed at basin traps. Fair to good numbers of wild fish are being reported by anglers. The summer steelhead run is approaching with fair numbers anticipated to starting showing around early May. Anglers should concentrate on fishing the upper river during higher water conditions. Current river levels and forecasts can be found at http://www.nwrfc.noaa.gov/river/station/flowplot/flowplot.cgi?SILO3
SIUSLAW RIVER: Closed to fishing above tide water April 1 through May 25. Current river levels and forecasts can be found at http://www.nwrfc.noaa.gov/river/station/flowplot/flowplot.cgi?MPLO3.
TILLAMOOK BAY: Angling for sturgeon is fair. Sand shrimp is the preferred bait, although mud shrimp will work also. Concentrate on the channel edges on the outgoing tides for best success. Move often until you locate some fish. A few spring Chinook should be entering the bay, but expect fishing to be slow until May.
WILSON AND TRASK RIVERS: A few winter steelhead and some summer steelhead are available in the Wilson and Trask rivers. Angling has generally been slow to fair. Spring Chinook angling is generally very slow during April. Check river levels at http://ahps2.wrh.noaa.gov/ahps2/index.php?wfopqr prior to fishing.
HUNTING
COUGAR season is open on the north coast. These secretive animals are difficult to hunt in an active sense, by stalking or glassing areas. They are best hunted from a stand with a predator call and an aggressive calling technique.
SPRING BEAR season extends through May 31 in the Wilson and Trask WMUs. Bears will be active in early April, and will be busy feeding on a variety of food sources, such as skunk cabbage, insects and the cambium (under the bark) layers of younger conifer trees. As with cougar, once bears have been known to occur in certain areas, a predator call is the best bet for getting the animals within range. As the spring progresses, bears will be found occasionally in natural and created forest openings, especially in the early morning and late evening hours. Visit http://www.dfw.state.or.us/hunting_forecast/index.asp for a complete spring bear hunting forecast.
VIEWING
The OREGON COAST BIRDING TRAIL GUIDE www.oregoncoastbirding.com is a website that highlights great birding opportunities all along the Oregon coast. It’s divided into sections of coastline, and the north coast is only a click away from the main home page. On the north coast page, you can find key areas with a summary of birds typically found there along with a legend of services found nearby. Links to checklists and sponsors can be found on the home page as well.
BLACK BRANT are present in Netarts Bay during most of the year. This time of year, it’s not unusual to see several hundred now that spring migration is underway. The birds are very shy of human activity and are almost always seen in the far southwestern corner of the bay. Thus, having a good spotting scope is necessary to find and identify them.
TWILIGHT EAGLE SANCTUARY, located east of Astoria off of Hwy 30 near Svensen, and is an excellent place to see wintering birds in and around the Columbia River. Not only do bald eagles frequent the adjacent Wolf Bay area, but a wide assortment of water loving birds, including swans, geese, ducks, grebes and rails as well as song birds. There is a handicap accessible platform located just off of the road. Be sure to bring your binoculars and spotting scope.
THREE ARCH ROCKS NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE is a collection of several offshore rocks located near Oceanside. Not only is it home to the largest and most diverse seabird colony in Oregon, it also supports a breeding population of Steller sea lions. Although nesting season for seabirds is not here yet, large groups of common murres and other seabirds can be seen staging on the rocks or on the adjacent waters. Even when the rocks seem relatively barren, careful observation can often reveal bald eagles and/or peregrine falcons perched on top of the rocks. A good spotting scope is very helpful for viewing.
SONGBIRDS can be heard throughout forests on the north coast during springtime. Leaf-break has started in lower elevation deciduous trees and will happen soon at higher elevations. Some of the best viewing of canopy-dwelling birds can be done now before the canopy becomes crowded with leaves. Don’t forget clearcuts with snags or leave trees in them; they can host an entirely different suite of birds than older forests do.
BLACK OYSTERCATCHERS can be seen regularly at Cape Meares National Wildlife Refuge located at the state park of the same name. These unusual shorebirds make a living on rocky shores within the tidal zone. They’re name is actually a misnomer as they eat mussels clinging to the black rocks, which can make them difficult to spot. It’s best to look for yellow feet and/or orange bill, and eventually the rest of the bird will come into view. Good binoculars are all that’s needed to find these striking birds.
SOUTHWEST ZONE
FISHING
APPLEGATE RIVER: Closed to all angling until May 26.
APPLEGATE RESERVOIR: Angling for rainbow trout, land-locked chinook salmon, bass, and panfish has been slow due to the cool weather but should improve this week as the weather warms up. Updated boat access information is available by calling the Applegate Ranger District at 541-899-3800.
BURMA POND: Legal-sized rainbow trout were stocked last week. Largemouth bass and panfish are also available. The water level in the pond has been lowered to facilitate repairs to the dam and will remain low through the summer.
CHETCO RIVER: The Chetco River is closed until the trout opener May 26.
COOS COUNTY LAKES: Trout fishing is good in local lakes. Powers Pond, Empire, Bradley, and Tenmile Lakes are all scheduled to be stocked the week of April 16, with large trophy trout going into Powers Pond, Empire and Bradley Lakes. The Millicoma Interpretive Center youth fishing pond has been very productive for kids. Fishing equipment is available for kids to use at the Millicoma Pond. Warmwater fishing is also improving with some large bass showing up at Tenmile Lakes.
COOS RIVER BASIN: No steelhead reports have come in recently. Steelhead angling above tidewater will close April 30. Effort has dropped off, allowing any remaining anglers to fish in less crowded conditions. Anglers are likely to encounter kelts heading back to sea. Surf perch and other marine fish are available in Coos Bay. Anglers should concentrate around rock structure or pilings.
COQUILLE RIVER BASIN: The forks of the Coquille close to steelhead angling on April 30. Steelhead are still available in the Coquille but fishing has slowed as we hit the end of the run and anglers may encounter runbacks this time of year. Striped bass are available in the Coquille estuary where anglers usually do better fishing after dark.
DIAMOND LAKE: Diamond Lake will be stocked for the trout opener April 28. For more information visit http://www.dfw.state.or.us/RR/index.asp
DUTCH HERMAN POND: DUTCH HERMAN POND: Legal-sized rainbow trout were stocked last week.
EMIGRANT RESERVOIR:Emigrant Reservoir has been stocked with legal-sized rainbow trout. The reservoir is now full, but the water is cool. Fishing for trout, bass, and panfish has been slow, but should improve as the water warms with the improved weather this week.
EXPO POND: ODFW stocked the pond with rainbow trout last week. Fishing for bass and panfish has been fair, but should improve as the weather warms.
FISH LAKE: Legal-sized rainbow trout were stocked last week. Angling effort has been light with the cold weather, but fishing should be good once the weather warms up. The lake is ice free, and the Forest Service and Fish Lake Resort boat ramps are open. Information on Forest Service campgrounds is available by calling the Butte Falls Ranger District office at 541-865-2700. The Fish Lake Resort can be reached at 541-949-8500.
HOWARD PRIARIE RESERVOIR: Howard Prairie opens this Saturday, April 28, and in preparation, ODFW stocked 9,000 legal-sized rainbow trout to supplement last year’s fingerling release. The facilities at the Howard Prairie Resort and the Jackson County Parks will be open. Largemouth bass and smallmouth bass are also available.
HYATT RESERVOIR: ODFW stocked legal-sized rainbow early this week in preparation for this Saturday’s (April 28) opening. Facilities at the BLM campground as well as those at the resorts will be open. Hyatt also offer good opportunities to catch quality-sized largemouth bass.
ILLINOIS RIVER: Closed to all angling until May 26.
LAKE SELMAC: Lake Selmac has been stocked with legal-sized rainbow trou, consequently trout fishing should be good for both bank and boat anglers. Catch rates for largemouth bass and panfish have declined with the cool weather, but should improve this week as the weather clears and the water warms.
LEMOLO LAKE: Trout opener for Lemolo is April 28. Call the lodge at Lemolo to check on conditions of boat ramps and reservoir.
LOST CREEK RESERVOIR: Trolling and fishing from the bank should both be productive for the stocked rainbow trout. Angling for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, and panfish is slow with the cool weather, but should improve as the weather warms this week.
MEDCO POND: ODFW stocked Medco Pond with legal-sized rainbow trout last week. Largemouth bass and panfish are available, and fishing for them should improve when the weather warms up.
PACIFIC OCEAN & BEACHES: The nearshore Pacific halibut season opens May 1 for the central coast. The all-depth halibut dates for Cape Falcon to Humbug Mountain will be May 10-12, 17-19, 24-26, 31, June 1-2, and 7-9. Bottom fishing in the ocean has been good when boats can get out. Bay angling has been fair.
The first Chinook has been brought into Charleston. Few anglers have targeted ocean salmon with bottom fishing being so good recently. Surfperch fishing should be good now for anglers casting shrimp or other baits from the beach. Striped bass occasionally surprise surf fishers also. Good spots for surfperch are around Horsfall Beach and Bullards Beach. Look for steep beaches or small streams entering the ocean.
REINHART PARK POND: ODFW stocked the pond with rainbow trout last week. Fishing for bass and panfish has been fair, but should improve when the weather warms.
ROGUE RIVER, LOWER: Spring Chinook fishing continues to be slow. Warmer weather and higher flows are expected this week which should dramatically improve the bite. Water temperatures have been running in the high 40’s. Boat anglers fishing around Elephant Rock have been averaging about a fish per 3 boats. Most anglers have been using an anchovy and spinner blade. .
ROGUE RIVER, MIDDLE: Angling for winter steelhead is slow. The first few spring chinook of the season have been caught; however, they are just starting to arrive and angling for them remains slow as well. The river started the week high and turbid due to the rain last weekend, but should drop and clear over the week. Flows were averaging 5,100 cubic feet per second at Grants Pass as of Monday morning. Anglers are reminded that the river is closed to all trout angling until May 26.
ROGUE RIVER, UPPER: Catches of winter steelhead are dropping off. Spring chinook are starting to enter the upper Rogue; however, very few are available at this time. A total of 12,440 winter steelhead and 40 spring chinook salmon have been counted at Gold Ray Dam as of April 21. Outflows from Lost Creek Reservoir were averaging 1,590 cubic feet per second as of Monday morning, and the outflow temperature from the reservoir was 50F.
Anglers are reminded that the river is closed to all trout angling until May 26.
SODA SPRINGS RESERVOIR: Soda Springs reservoir is open all year round for brown and rainbow trout. The road to Soda Springs dam is currently closed due to a high volume of dump trucks and heavy equipment. At this time the only access into the reservoir is at Medicine Creek bridge.
SMITH RIVER: Stripers are being caught in the Smith River estuary. Most striper fishing is done by boat in the lower ten miles of the estuary. A total of 460 winter steelhead have been floy tagged and passed through Smith River Falls. Only about 20% of the winter steelhead in Smith River use the ladder, the remainder jump the falls. The steelhead run is winding down on the Smith although there still should be fresh fish to catch. Wild steelhead must be released unharmed from the Smith River. Hatchery clipped steelhead only may be retained.
SOUTH COAST LAKES AND PONDS Fishing has slowed on most area lakes. Anglers are reminded to pick up all garbage after fishing.
SOUTH COAST STREAMS: All south coast streams are closed until May 26 trout opener.
SOUTH COAST BEACHES: Perch fishing has been good. Anglers should keep an eye on surf conditions and tides before heading out. Usually the best perch fishing in on an incoming tide.
SPAULDING POND: Last week’s storms prevented the scheduled stocking of rainbow trout. They will be stocked next week once the access road becomes passable.
TENMILE BASIN: Steelhead fishing in Tenmile and Eel Creeks will close April 30. Effort has dropped off as the season comes to a close. Spinreel Park is a popular spot for anglers who fish within the park or walk downstream. Eel Creek is open for steelhead angling below Eel Lake, but the creek is small and brushy, and requires special techniques to hook and land fish from small pockets.
TOKETEE LAKE: Fishing is open in Toketee all year round. As water temperatures slowly increase German Brown fishing will improve.
UMPQUA ESTUARY: Crabbing should be picking up but all reports seem to indicate that crabbing is good for everything but legals. Sturgeon fishing has been spotty, some sturgeon are being picked up in the Big Bend area. Striper fishing continues to improve, with some stripers being picked up by spring chinook fishermen. Pink fin perch fishing should really turn on in the next month.
UMPQUA RIVER MAINSTEM: Spring chinook fishing is slow, a creel checker sat at Scotts Creek ramp for much of the 17th and only checked one chinook. Some steelhead (early summers) are being picked up as well as the occasional sturgeon and stripers. The number of sled boats fishing from Elkton to Scottsburg continues to increase with each week. If water temperatures would increase and the weather would cooperate spring chinook fishing should turn on. Spring chinook anglers above Elkton remain low. Water flows are high enough to provide good access to most spring chinook hole by drift boat or sled. A few shad fishermen are out and catching the first of the shad run. Fishing will improve as river waters drop. Fishing for shad will last into August. Retention of wild steelhead will close on April 30th.
UMPQUA RIVER, NORTH: Winter steelhead numbers crossing Winchester Dam have slowed. Some early hatchery “summers” have been seen crossing and in the fishery below the dam. Chinook fishing at Amacher Park remains very slow and at this time there is very little pressure. Boat anglers need to remember to fish below the deadline, if anglers are caught fishing above the deadline they will be ticketed by OSP. The first confirmed harvest of a spring chinook has occurred in the Rock Creek area. Spring chinook fishing remains very slow, although the normal spring chinook holes are beginning to fill up with anglers. This is a good time to visit and see spring chinook and steelhead in the viewing windows at the dam. Winchester Dam counts show that 9,400 winter steelhead and 56 spring chinook have passed over the dam through April 19th.
UMPQUA RIVER, SOUTH: Wild steelhead must be released unharmed in the South Umpqua River. The South Umpqua will remain open for steelhead fishing until April 30th. Fishing around Canyonville has slowed, most fishing is occurring from Canyonville Park to Myrtle Creek. There are still hatchery steelhead coming back to Canyon Creek. The drift boat slide at Rummel bar is nearly inaccessible and requires a good four-wheel drive. Bank fishing near Canyonville remains slow but there are fish to be caught as hatchery steelhead continue to keg up waiting for flows to increase allowing fish access into Canyon Creek. Hatchery clipped steelhead only may be retained.
WILLOW LAKE: Willow Lake has been stocked with legal-sized rainbow trout and fishing should be good. Angling for bass and other warmwater fish has been slow with the cool weather, but should improve when the water warms and the fish move into the shallows. The store and main campground are now open.
WINCHESTER BAY: Crabbing has been slow but should improve as smaller crabs grow to legal size. Sturgeon fishing has also been slow but should improve as more food enters the estuary.
SHELLFISH
SHELLFISH: The entire Oregon coast is now open for razor clams, bay clams, and mussels. ALWAYS CHECK FOR HEALTH ADVISORIES by calling the Oregon Department of Agriculture’s Shellfish line at 1-800-448-2474 for updates. For more information about razor clams and current status of particular areas see the ODFW razor clam web page at http://www.dfw.state.or.us/MRP/shellfish/razorclams
Crabbing is good in the ocean. Bay crabbing has been slow but picked up recently. The COOS BAY shoals (20-30 feet deep) along the inside of the North Spit from Empire to Charleston is a good area for crabbing. Public crabbing docks can be found in Winchester Bay, Bandon, Charleston, and Empire.
HUNTING
Controlled spring bear hunting opened April 1. For a complete 2007 spring bear forecast, visit http://www.dfw.state.or.us/hunting_forecast/index.asp
General spring turkey hunting season opened April 15. For a complete forecast visit
http://www.dfw.state.or.us/RR/hunting_forecast/turkey.asp
COOS COUNTY
COUGAR: Look for areas frequented by deer and elk to hunt cougars. Roadless areas on public or private land with limited access are good choices. Remember to “ask first” before hunting private lands. Private landowners can be a valuable source of information when it comes to recent cougar sightings in the area. Some hunters find success in harvesting cougars by using predator calls in areas where cougar sign is found.
TURKEY: General turkey season is open now for adult hunters. Turkey populations have been on the rise in Coos County. Presently there are populations in or near all areas in the county with suitable habitat. Hunters should concentrate their efforts near agricultural lands. Remember ask first for permission to hunt.
SPRING BEAR SEASON has been in progress since April 1. Hunters are reporting seeing bears on south slopes in grassy areas. Hunting should improve as the warmer weather comes on and bears become more active.
CURRY, JACKSON AND JOSEPHINE COUNTIES
COUGARS: A new regulation for 2007 allows the purchase of two cougar tags, consult regulation. Cougar season is expected to be average this year. Cougar tracks maybe easily located along ridge lines, aggressive predator calling have resulted in successful hunting. Remember it is unlawful to take spotted kittens or females with spotted kittens.
COYOTE: Coyotes numbers have increased in our counties. Hunters will find good success by predator calling. There are plenty of public lands to hunt. If hunting private lands remember to ask for permission.
BEAR: Spring bear hunting has been average to slow in success within the first few weeks of the season due to the persistent rains. As clear warmer days approach success should pickup. Bears will be found on open hill sides taken advantage of new green grasses. Areas where fires have gone through in the past several years provide great grass green up. Besides looking in grassy openings look in draws where tracks can be found along streams and brushy areas leading to open forage areas. There are plenty of public lands available for hunting. Remember that it is unlawful to take cubs less than one year old or sows with cubs less than one year old.
TURKEY: Weather has slowed success from what was expected but yet success has been good. Turkey numbers remain high. Scouting with the use of locator calls will help in locating flocks and roosting areas. Turkeys can be found in oak savannah habitat with open grassy clearing, where much of this habitat is found on lower elevation private lands and BLM public lands. A growing population is being found in thinned out areas of conifer forest habitats that have interspersed grassy clearings. The first few weeks will receive heavy pressure from hunters try using a variety of different calls during your set up.
DOUGLAS COUNTY
COUGARn Hunters can expect an average year. Cougars are abundant throughout with indicators pointing to stable or increasing numbers.
TURKEYn Spring turkey season started April 15 and continues through May 30. Hunters can expect the spring gobbler season to be above average due to increasing birds throughout the county. Some nice bearded turkeys have been taken in the Roseburg and Tiller areas since the season opened. Most hens are currently off nesting so many bearded gobblers are lonely and more receptive to calls. In general, most turkeys are found on or adjacent to low-mid elevation private lands associated with oak savannah habitat. Hunters are reminded to obtain permission before hunting on private lands.
VIEWING
COOS COUNTY
Early spring is a good time for viewing wildlife in Coos County. Big game animals are becoming visible in clear cuts and other forest openings. Often south slopes are the best place to look due to the fact that these slopes warm first in the mornings and green up occurs there first.
Viewing opportunities are good at Dean Creek Elk Viewing Area located east of Reedsport on Hwy. 38.
BLACK BEARS are becoming active as spring comes on. Those wishing to see these elusive animals may have some luck using optics to watch forest openings. Often bears will move into slides on hill sides where grass is beginning to green up.
A good viewing opportunity available now that is unique to the coast is the viewing of SEADUCKS in the bays. Seaducks are scoters, eiders, oldsquaw harlequin ducks and others. These species are numerous along the Oregon coast now and they are in prime plumage. Look for these birds in various places in the bays or along the coast. Depending on the species in question and what they are feeding on at the time these birds could be found in many locations. Also, good numbers of brant are showing up in local bays. They stop along the Oregon coast and other places to feed on their northward migration.
ALEUTIAN CANADA GEESE are congregating in large numbers on the south coast as they migrate north for nesting. These birds feed in pastures near Langlois during the day and roost on off-shore rocks near Bandon at night. There will be as many as 100,000 birds in the vicinity during their peak and they will leave for the Aleutian islands to nest in May.
Other migrants to be aware of are SHOREBIRDS. Various species of sand pipers, plovers and other shore birds are appearing in bays, wetlands and along beaches as they migrate north. These birds can be very entertaining to watch as they dart around feeding.
DOUGLAS COUNTY
Observe BALD EAGLES along the main Umpqua River from Roseburg to Reedsport and N. Umpqua from Roseburg to Steamboat Creek.
Good early morning WATERFOWL (duck and goose) viewing exists at Cooper Cr. in Sutherlin plus Stewart Park in Roseburg.
Check out Plat I Reservoir in Sutherlin at Sutherlin creek inlet on the eastside of the lake for various SHORBIRDS. This area is also a good site to see RAPTORS like Black-shouldered Kites and Northern Goshawks.
SONGBIRDS like Western Bluebirds, Black-headed Grosbeaks, House Wrens, thrushes and various sparrows are present at Stewart Park Duck Pond and Stewart Park trail in Roseburg. Remember to clean out your songbird nesting boxes or put up new boxes now since courtship, nest building and raising nestlings happens for many birds in April and May.
FISH SPAWNING n Each year there is a chance to observe wild Winter Steelhead spawning just below Soda Springs dam on the N. Umpqua River 55 miles east of Roseburg.
FISH PASSAGE — Each year there are Winter Steelhead and Spring Chinook migrating upstream passing through Winchester dam fish ladder on the N. Umpqua River which is open to the public. To view the migrating Steelhead go to exit 129 on I-5, proceed southeast on 99 to the fish ladder on the north side of the river.
ROGUE WATERSHED
DENMAN WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREA provides a covered viewing station with a good opportunity to view waterfowl, egrets, raptors and songbirds. The structure was built by the Oregon Hunters Association and is accessed by a paved, wheelchair-accessible pathway. It is on the Whetstone Pond, just north of the ODFW Rogue Watershed Field Office in Central Point.
LAKE SELMAC is a great place to see waterfowl, eagles, osprey and other lake shore birds. Directions from Grants Pass, take Hwy 199 west about 12 miles to lake turn off sign at Lakeshore Drive. Turn left, follow to lake.
LOST CREEK LAKE provides 30 miles of trails which includes portions of the Rogue River National Recreation Trail. Along the lake and river banks a wide variety of wildlife and wild flowers can be observed. Deer may be seen early in the morning and late evenings along water ways. A brochure of the trail system can be picked up at federal land agency and visitor centers in the area.
UPPER AND LOWER TABLE ROCKS rise 800 feet above the valley floor. Habitat types range form oak savanna and chaparral to woodland. On the summit a diversity of wildflowers and wildlife can be found along the trails. Spring can provide some of the best viewing times.
HARBOR SEALS can be observed in estuaries throughout the South Coast. Look for sandy haul out sites. Remember, spring is puping season so please observe these animals from a distance. If you find pups on the beach, leave them where you found them.
CENTRAL ZONE
FISHING
Trout season opens April 28. Contact ODFW at the Deschutes Watershed Office (541) 388-6363 for more information on fishing opportunities.
ANTELOPE FLAT RESERVOIR: Angling for 14-18 inch carryover rainbow trout should be fair to good. Check with Ochoco National Forest 541-416-6500 for current conditions.
BIG LAVA LAKE: Roads are open into Big Lava Lake and the boat ramp is clear. Prospects are excellent for a good day of fishing come this weekend. The rainbow trout population in Big Lava Lake is doing well and anglers on opening day should find the fish in good condition. The trout showing up in the creel will range in length from 12 to 16 inches with some fish in the 17 to 19 inch range.
CLEAR LAKE: Located about 20 miles west of Maupin. Access may be difficult due to snow.
CRANE PRAIRIE RESERVOIR: Crane Prairie is ice free and boat ramps and campgrounds are accessible. Prospects are very good for a quality fishing experience at Crane Prairie on opening weekend. The rainbow trout population is in good shape and the opportunities for brook trout are excellent. The kokanee population has increased over previous years and offers opportunity we haven’t seen in quite a while. There is also good opportunity for largemouth bass.
CRESCENT LAKE: Kokanee angling was fairly good over the past week. There were reports of some very nice kokanee in the 16 inch category showing up in the creel.. April is typically a good month to target brown trout, lake trout and kokanee. Kokanee anglers have had success both jigging and trolling. Kokanee still are holding in deeper water. Trolling shoreline areas in 15 feet of water with a variety of lures has been a successful technique for browns over the few weeks.
CROOKED RIVER BELOW BOWMAN DAM: Stream flows are predicted to be approximately 500 CFS by the weekend. Recent rains and snowmelt have resulted in increased releases from the dam. Angling conditions are marginal until flows are reduced.
CULTUS LAKE: Cultus Lake is now accessible and anglers were out on the lake over the weekend. There are no reports from anglers however on their success. Spring is the best time to fish for lake trout at Cultus Lake .
DAVIS LAKE: Reports of fly anglers catching a few largemouth bass. No reports on the redband trout catch.
DESCHUTES RIVER: Dry fly fishing has been slow; anglers should look at using nymphing tactics in the slow water areas. Lake Billy Chinook to Benham Falls: No anglers were observed on the river as basis for a report. This is a good time to fish the middle Deschutes for brown trout and rainbow trout.
EAST LAKE: Roads into East Lake will be open for the weekend though there are currently no open boat ramps. As of Monday the lake still had a substantial area covered in ice though that status can change over the course of a day. There are no open campgrounds at this time.
ELK LAKE: Not yet accessible.
FALL RIVER: Observations indicate success for rainbow trout was poor during the course of the past week.
FROG LAKE: Located about 20 miles west of Maupin. Access may be difficult due to snow.
HAYSTACK RESERVOIR: Opportunities for 12-18 inch rainbow and brown trout are fair to good. Approximately 100 rainbow trout brood fish will be released this week.
HOSMER LAKE: Not yet accessible.
LAKE BILLY CHINOOK: Bull trout angling was fair last week with most fish caught early in the morning or in the evening. Cove Palisades State Park is currently conducting repairs and improvements to the boat ramp on the Crooked River Arm. The only boat ramps open for launching are the upper ramp on the Deschutes Arm and Perry South on the Metolius Arm. This is scheduled to be in effect until May 15. Contact the State Park for current information at 541-546-3412
LITTLE LAVA LAKE Little lava is accessible and ice free. Prospects for rainbow trout and brook trout at Little Lava Lake are excellent.
METOLIUS RIVER: Anglers interviewed over the weekend reported catching a few redband trout though overall the fishing seemed to be a little on the slow side.
NORTH TWIN: Anglers are reporting fair success at North Twin. Late winter/early spring at North Twin Lake provides a good opportunity for rainbow trout which carried over from the summer of 2006.
OCHOCO RESERVOIR: Opportunities for 12-16 inch rainbow trout are fair to good. Boat anglers generally target the upper end of the reservoir near the mouths of Mill and Ochoco Creeks this time of year. Bullhead angling at the east end of the reservoir should be excellent
ODELL LAKE: Odell Lake is ice free with accessible boat ramps at the resorts, Sunset Cove and Princess Creek. Prospects are good for those anglers seeking kokanee. Anglers should be on the lake at daylight for best results. There is also good opportunity for lake trout and rainbow trout.
PAULINA LAKE: Roads into Paulina Lake will be open for the weekend. As of Monday the lake still had a substantial area covered in ice though that status can change over the course of a day. Little Crater Campground might be accessible. Please check with Paulina Lake Lodge for an up-to date status of the ice conditions.
PRINEVILLE RESERVOIR: Opportunities for 12-16 inch rainbow trout are fair to good. Bullhead angling in the upper end of the reservoir should be excellent. The northside access road is open..
ROCK CREEK RESERVOIR: Located near Wamic. ODFW will stock this waterbody in the spring.
SOUTH TWIN: South Twin Lake is accessible and ice free. South Twin Lake provides good opportunity for 10 to 16 inch rainbow trout. The lake has good shoreline access and provides good shelter from the wind.
SUTTLE LAKE. Anglers reported good success for brown trout. Springtime at Suttle Lake provides good opportunity for brown trout and kokanee.
WICKIUP RESERVOIR: Wickiup Reservoir is ice free and all the campgrounds and ramps are accessible. Opening weekend holds good prospects those anglers interested in brown trout and kokanee. Rainbow trout and largemouth bass are also available for the angler.
WALTON LAKE: Opportunities for carryover rainbow trout up to 16 inches should be fair to good. The gate to the campground is closed and anglers will have to walk the last ¼ mile to the lake.
HUNTING
For a complete 2007 spring bear forecast, visit http://www.dfw.state.or.us/hunting_forecast/index.asp
The general spring turkey hunting season opens April 15. For a complete forecast visit http://www.dfw.state.or.us/RR/hunting_forecast/turkey.asp Hunters in the Hood Unit will have better access to the mid elevations due to the lack of snow in those areas.
OCHOCO DISTRICT
GENERAL: Be prepared for variable weather conditions. Snow accumulations are disappearing; however some persistent drifts remain above 4000 feet. Off road motorized travel should not be attempted without proper equipment and checking with local BLM and Forest Service officials regarding motorized access regulations.
PRINEVILLE RESERVOIR WMA: The north side access road is open, with motorized access limited to this route only. This is an unimproved dirt road not suitable for travel by low clearance vehicles or with travel trailers.
COUGAR: Cougar are reported regularly in the Maury, Ochoco, and Grizzly units, at all elevations and habitat types. Deer, elk, and pronghorn have moved off of wintering areas and are scattered at higher elevations across transition and summer ranges. Cougar will be following them and be harder to find as big game move on to the more expansive summering areas on the Ochoco National Forest.
GROUND SQUIRRELS: Squirrels have emerged and are active in agricultural fields and pastures. Best opportunities are on private lands east of Prineville along the Crooked River between Paulina and Post. These are private lands where permission from landowners is necessary before hunting.
TURKEY: Birds have moved from wintering areas to higher elevations, including national forest lands on Lookout Mountain and Paulina Ranger Districts. Areas to consider include Bear and Trout Creeks, and along the southern boundary of the Paulina Ranger District from N. Fork Crooked River to the breaks of the S. Fork John Day River.
VIEWING
OCHOCO DISTRICT: Bald and golden eagles, a variety of hawks and falcons, and waterfowl are present along the Post-Paulina Highway east of Prineville. If observers extend their drive and include the Puett Road loop through the Paulina Ranger Station they have an opportunity of seeing wintering deer, pronghorn, elk, and coyotes. This route is suitable for passenger cars.
LOWER DESCHUTES WILDLIFE AREA: Visitors to this area can see California bighorn sheep on a regular basis upstream of Harris Canyon (RM 12). Lambs are being born starting the first couple weeks of April. Access will be by boat or bicycle. Sheep can also be seen on the Deschutes River down the Mack’s Canyon Road down stream of Shearer’s Falls with a major lambing grounds at Beavertail.
SOUTHEAST ZONE
FISHING
ODFW will begin stocking trout in many of the lakes and reservoirs in the coming weeks. Please see this website for a stocking schedule for the Klamath-Malheur watersheds http://www.dfw.state.or.us/ODFWhtml/InfoCntrFish/trout_stocking_sched/2007/southeast/Klamath_Malhuer.htmlANA RESERVOIR: Angling for rainbow trout has been fair. Most angling occurs from the bank using bait. Angling for hybrid bass has been slow. The reservoir is full
ANA RIVER: Angling for rainbow trout has been good. Mayfly and caddisflies are hatching in good numbers in the early afternoon. Recent sampling has shown good survival of fingerlings, plenty of fish aviable over 8” in good condition. Fish are concentrated between the reservoir dam and Desert Spring Hatchery. Look for rising trout in shaded areas of the river or wait until overcast days to fish over rising fish. These fish can be very spooky so stealth is required. Bait angling is productive.
BEULAH RESERVOIR: The reservoir was 82 percent full on April 22, and inflow was 132 cfs. Fishing is slow.
BIG ROCK RESERVOIR: The reservoir has dried completely in recent years, angling for last years rainbow trout is good, especially in the late afternoon. Fish seem more receptive to flies than bait. The reservoir is at half-full and declining.
BLITZEN RIVER: Fair angling for redband trout, but pay attention to fluctuating river condition. Flow fluctuated between approximately 900 and 780 cfs from April 16 through April 23.
BULLY CREEK RESERVOIR: The reservoir was 84 percent full on April 15. Angling for warmwater fish is slow.
BURNS POND: The pond will be stocked with rainbow trout this week. Angling should be good.
CHICKAHOMINY RESERVOIR: Angling is fair to good for 12 to 18 inch rainbow trout. Fly anglers and trollers have had the best success.
BURNT RIVER: Upstream from Huntington-Richland Road Bridge will be opened for fishing on April 28.
CHEWAUCAN RIVER: River flows are decreasing and water temperatures are producing improved fishing conditions. Look for fishing to be best in the early mornings.
COTTONWOOD RESERVOIR: Angling is fair with increasing water temperatures and the end of spawning. The best method for fishing Cottonwood Reservoir is angling from the dam or trolling minnow imitations (rapalas, cleos, deceiver flies) from a boat. Cottonwood Reservoir is not stocked and the fish you catch are native redband trout produced in Cottonwood Creek.
DEEP CREEK: Angling is fair for redband trout.
DUNCAN RESERVOIR: Angling for rainbow trout has been good. Flies replicating chironomids and water boatmen juveniles are catching trout in the late morning and afternoon. Bait near the surface and trolling lures has had some success. The Reservoir is spilling; fishing in the creek will improve but access is limited.
DELINTMENT LAKE: No angling report. Access up the Forest Service 41 road was only possible by snowmobile in late March.
EAGLE CREEK and TRIBUTARIES: Opens April 28.
FISH LAKE (Steens Mountain): The north loop road is closed at Page Springs.
FOURMILE LAKE: Access is blocked by snow.
GERBER RESERVOIR: Yellow perch angling has been fair. Lake levels are high therefore boats can be launched. Angling for brown bullhead, largemouth bass and crappie is fair. Crappie are abundant in the reservoir but are difficult to catch until water temperatures increase. Crappie are spread throughout the reservoir but difficult to locate. ODFW is expecting very good crappie angling in Gerber Reservoir this year.
HAINES POND: Was stocked with 1000 legals week of April 2.
HIGGINS RESERVOIR: Opens April 28. Should provide fair angling for 10-18-inch rainbow trout. Higgins Reservoir is located on private land, and the landowner allows public access for angling but has limited it to walking access only. There is a gate approximately ¾ mile from the reservoir.
HOLBROOK RESERVOIR: The abundance of trout has been reduced by the illegal introduction of tui chub, larger trout are still available. Access to Holbrook Reservoir by the 3716 road is clear. There are a few snow drifts on the 3817 road off the 3715 but are passable with a four wheel drive vehicle. Holbrook will be stocked with legal and trophy rainbow trout the week of May 1.
HWY 203 POND: Was stocked with 2000 legals week of April 2.
JUNIPER LAKE: Angling for wild redband trout has been slow. Expect angling to improve this month as water temperatures increase which will increase redband trout feeding and activity. Most anglers have been successful casting lures or flies that mimic minnows from an anchored boat. Some anglers have caught fish trolling lures or flies but catch rates are low. Angling from shore using bait or lures has also been effective but has been slow. Trolling near Eagle Ridge, Howard Bay and the channel between Klamath and Agency Lakes should be the prime areas to try in the coming weeks.
KLAMATH RIVER: Angling is slow below Keno Dam to J.C Boyle Reservoir. River flows are currently 1910 cfs below Keno Dam which make catching rainbow-redband trout difficult. Expect to see hatches of caddisflies and mayflies in the afternoon or try imitations that mimic minnows (flies, cleos, rapalas, panther martins). Most rainbow-redband are still spawning so numbers of rainbow-redband trout in the reach below Keno Dam is low. The angling below JC Boyle Powerhouse is fair due to flow fluctuations. Flows below the Powerhouse will be 2000-2800 cfs during most of the daylight hours which creates difficult angling conditions; however some trout can be captured in the shallow, slow moving water near shore using black or gold spinners (Rooster tail, panther martins, blue fox). Redband-rainbow trout are concentrated so covering lots of water will increase your odds of catching fish. The river section from JC Boyle Dam to JC Boyle Powerhouse is good for rainbow-redband trout 6-12 inches. River flows in this section are a constant 380 cfs. Small rooster tails and flies are the most effective method for catching rainbow-redband trout in this section. Anglers can call 1-800-547-1501 for river flow information or visit the following website http://waterdata.usgs.gov/or/nwis/current?typeflow.
KRUMBO RESERVOIR: The reservoir opens for angling on April 28. Angling should be good for rainbow trout and fair for largemouth bass.
LAKE OF THE WOODS: The Lake is mostly ice free. Boats can be launched at the lodge. Angling for brown trout is typically good after ice out. Angling for largemouth bass, crappie, brown bullhead, and smallmouth bass is slow. Angling for rainbow trout, yellow perch and kokanee should be fair. Lake of the Woods will be stocked with legal and trophy rainbow trout just before the opening weekend of trout season on April 28. Contact Lake of the Woods Lodge at (1-866-201-4194) for recent angling update or visit their website at www.lakeofthewoodsresort.com.
LINK RIVER: This is the best month to catch large redband trout in Link River. Angling is currently fair. Most anglers use rapalas or minnow imitations. Access is available along the entire west side and boats can be launched at Veterans Park and motored upstream to the powerhouse. Catch rates are typically low and a good day is landing a few redband trout.
LITTLE HEART LAKE: Access is blocked by snow.
LOFTON RESERVOIR: The road to Lofton is passable; but difficult. Expect angling to be slow due to the illegal introduction of tui chub. Larger fish are still available in the lake. Lofton Reservoir will be stocked with legal and trophy rainbow trout the week of May 1.
LONG CREEK RESERVOIR: Fishing should be good for rainbow trout.
LOST RIVER: Angling has been fair for warm water game fish. A few big largemouth bass are taken each year. The boat ramp, bridge and park at Crystal Springs are closed until at least mid July. Small boats can be launched at Olene Bridge or at Big Springs in Bonanza.
LUCKY RESERVOIR: Currently reservoir is free of ice; road access is difficult with muddy conditions.
MALHEUR RIVER (Warm Springs Reservoir downstream to South Fork Malheur River): Discharge from Warm Springs Reservoir was approximately 305 cfs April 22. No angling report.
MALHEUR RIVER (from the South Fork Malheur River near Riverside, downstream to Gold Creek): Discharge from Warm Springs Reservoir was approximately 305 cfs, and discharge from Beulah Reservoir was approximately 239cfs April 22. Angling is slow.
MALHEUR RESERVOIR: Water level is down about 6 feet from full. Trout angling is fair to good.
MALHEUR RIVER, NORTH FORK: Access to the North Fork remains limited by snow. Trout angling is slow. Remember to release bull trout.
MALHEUR RIVER, MIDDLE FORK: Access to the Middle Fork remains limited by snow. Trout angling is slow. Remember to release bull trout.
MANN LAKE: No recent angling report, but in the past month angling has been fair to good angling for 10 to 18 inch cutthroat trout. Fly anglers have had the best success.
MILLER LAKE: Access is blocked by snow.
MOON RESERVOIR: Angling should be fair to good for rainbow trout. The access road was opened in late March.
MURRAY RESERVOIR: Trout fishing should be good.
NORTH MALHEUR BLM STOCK PONDS: Access may still be limited by soft roads into some ponds. No angling report from any of the ponds.
NORTH POWDER PONDS 1 & 2: Was stocked week of April 2.
OWYHEE RESERVOIR: The reservoir was 79 percent full April 22. All boat ramps are in the water. Warmwater angling is fair.
OWYHEE RIVER (Lower): Flows below the dam averaged about 250 cfs on April 22. Angling for rainbow trout and brown trout is fair.
OWYHEE RIVER (Upper): Discharge at the Rome gauge averaged approximately 493 cfs on April 22. Angling for smallmouth and channel catfish is slow.
PAIUTE RESERVOIR: Angling for rainbow trout is fair with bait. A boat is not needed to catch fish successfully on Paiute Reservoir. A few Lahontan cutthroat trout are available. The reservoir is at half full, and will progressively get lower.
PHILLIPS RESERVOIR: Fishing has been fair-good for trout and perch. Trout are running 12-14 inches. Perch are 10-11 inches. Ice is off the lake. Water is rising and is at 67 percent.
PILCHER RESERVOIR: Campground is open. Fishing is Fair-slow. Water level is at 50 percent.
PINE CREEK: Opens April 28 for trout fishing upstream of Oxbow bridge in Baker County.
POLE CREEK RESERVOIR: The reservoir is approximately 15 feet or more below full pool. Angling is fair.
POWDER RIVER: Opens April 28, upstream from Huntington-Richland Road Bridge. Use of bait allowed
SHERLOCK GULCH RESERVOIR: Fishing has been fair for legal sized trout. Road is open with some muddy spots. The reservoir is near full and turbid.
SID LUCE RESERVOIR: SID LUCE RESERVOIR: Access to the reservoir is difficult and not recommended at this time due to deep mud.
SNAKE RIVER: Flow was 7,795 cfs near Nyssa and approximately 11,136 cfs near Weiser on April 22. Angling for catfish and smallmouth bass is slow.
SOUTH MALHEUR BLM STOCK PONDS: Access may still be limited by soft roads into some ponds. No angling report from any of the ponds.
SPAULDING RESERVOIR: Fishing has been fair for legal sized trout. The reservoir is half-full and will decline through the summer.
THOMPSON RESERVOIR: Access to both boat ramps is open. Angling for largemouth bass is slow but will be getting better as water temperatures warm. Angling for trophy rainbow trout is improving. The best location to fish for bass is near the shore on both sides near the dam. Angling for rainbow trout is best near the dam and along the rocky northeast bank.
TOPSY RESERVOIR: Angling for warmwater fish is fair. Look for largemouth bass in the shallow backwater areas near J.C. Boyle Dam or near the Klamath River. Angling from a boat is more productive for largemouth bass and crappie than angling from shore. Angling with bait from shore can be productive for catching brown bullhead. Angling for sunfish will improve with increased water temperatures. Sunfish can be caught from shore using small bait under bobbers or small flies.
THIEF VALLEY RESERVOIR: Trout fishing is good. Reservoir is full.
UNITY RESERVOIR: Reservoir is full.
WARM SPRINGS RESERVOIR: The reservoir was 67 percent full April 22. Inflow at the Drewsey gauge averaged 172 on April 22. Angling is slow.
WARNER LAKES (Hart, Crump, Flagstaff, etc.): Angling for crappie is slow. Crappie angling should be very good later this year.
WILLOW VALLEY RESERVOIR: Angling for largemouth bass has been fair but will improve with the warmer weather. Angling for largemouth bass should be very good in coming months. Crappie angling has been slow. Look for crappie and bass around the many wood and habitat structures in the reservoir. Yellow perch are very abundant but are typically small (6 inches). Lahontan cutthroat are available but rare in the catch. The most effective way to fish Willow Valley is from boat but largemouth bass can be captured at the boat ramp and all along the dam.
WOLF CREEK RESERVOIR: Water level is at 40 percent and rising.
YELLOWJACKET LAKE: Fair to good angling for 10 to 14 inch rainbow trout. No reports on what gear is most successful.
HUNTING
For a complete 2007 spring bear forecast, visit http://www.dfw.state.or.us/hunting_forecast/index.asp
The general spring turkey hunting season opens April 15. For a complete forecast visit http://www.dfw.state.or.us/RR/hunting_forecast/turkey.asp
VIEWING
Early spring is one of the best wildlife viewing time periods in the Klamath and Harney Basins , which are major staging areas for migratory birds starting their northward migration to primary nesting areas.
NEAR BURNS: Currently thousands of migrating snow, Ross’s, white-fronted and Canada geese as well as ducks, lesser sandhill cranes and tundra swans are using the Harney Basin near the town of Burns. Some other species of note in the basin are bald eagles, golden eagles, American white pelicans, greater sandhill cranes, white-faced ibis and long-billed curlews. Another attraction is viewing strutting sage grouse which do their annual mating display from mid-March through April. Sage grouse viewing is best during the first hour of daylight on days when the weather is good.
The KLAMATH WILDLIFE AREA and LOWER KLAMATH NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE are excellent locations to view thousands of ducks and geese. Snow, ross’s, and white-fronted geese will soon be departing for northern nesting grounds in Alaska and Canada. Mallard ducks have begun nesting and other species will soon begin nesting such as gadwall, pintail, redhead, canvasback, and cinnamon tel. Many shorebirds have arrived including American avocet, black-necked stilt, long-billed dowitcher and spotted sandpiper. These shorebirds can be found in shallow wetland areas or along other water areas.
Upper Klamath Lake is another location to view diving ducks including bufflehead, goldeneye, scaup, ruddy duck, redhead and canvasback. Bald eagles can be found anywhere there are concentrations of waterfowl, their primary food source this time of year. Grebes including Clark’s, western, pied-billed and eared grebes can be found on Upper Klamath and Agency Lakes taking advantage of the fish resource. Over the next month or so western and Clark’s grebes can be observed in their courtship ritual dance. Grebes will begin building floating nests made of emergent vegetation. Good numbers of American white pelicans can be found foraging for fish in the larger water bodies. Pelicans use large nest colonies on secluded islands free from disturbance.
SUMMER LAKE WILDLIFE AREA
Viewing opportunities remain good as northward migrants and local breeding species continue return to the Wildlife Area and stage in good numbers. Variable weather conditions prevailed during most of the past week but were generally good. Extensive and widespread bird use of Area wetlands coupled with new spring arrivals made for excellent viewing opportunities.
Waterfowl species, primarily ducks remain very apparent and are widely scattered across the Area. Over the past week 16 species were found. Ducks are in their brilliant nuptial plumage now, courtship activities are intensifying and nesting for some species is underway. Most Arctic nesting geese have departed but fair numbers of greater white-fronted and a few Ross’ and snow geese still remain. Nearly all will leave the Area by the end of the month. Greater white-fronted geese are widely scattered throughout the Wildlife Area and been actively feeding and roosting throughout the day in shallow emergent marshes found across the Area.
Early breeding species, such as mallards are nesting now, several nests have been found.
Viewers are urged to keep pets in close control. It is unlawful to allow dogs to run at large during this time of the year. If nests or young are found please move away from the vicinity immediately to avoid undue disturbance.
Northern shoveler and Am. green-winged teal continue to stage in good numbers and cinnamon teal and gadwall (common Wildlife Area breeders) are increasing as migrants return from wintering areas. Some cinnamon teal will begin nesting soon while gadwalls will not start until a month or so. Most diving ducks (canvasback, lesser scaup, ring-necked ducks and bufflehead) have departed, but a variety of species continue to utilize the deeper ponds and lakes to forage for submergent aquatic plants and invertebrates.
Resident Canada geese remain very secretive as they occupy nesting territories and rear broods. Several broods were observed last week, but most are in remote areas where disturbance is minimal. Hatching of nests should continue over most of the next month. Small flocks of sub-adult birds can still be found across the Area.
Sandhill cranes have dispersed to breeding territories and are becoming very apparent and vocal. Nesting is underway at this time for some of the established pairs and the season’s first colts (crane chicks) should be observed soon.
Shorebirds are increasing in number and variety. Last week dunlin, marbled godwit, western sandpiper and western willets made their spring arrival. Other migrants will arrive soon and breeding species (9 regularly on the Wildlife Area) will increase in number. Expect snowy plovers, phalaropes and several species of sandpipers to arrive in the next week. Some early nesting species, such as killdeer and willets will begin nesting soon. Common snipe are very active in their courtship winnowing flights, especially early morning and evenings.
Waders and other waterbirds are increasing in number and species. California gull and Forster’s tern arrived during the past week. White-faced ibis numbers are increasing and a common loon remains at Ana Res. American bitterns have begun their courtship activities with their “uumpa-uump” calls being first heard yesterday.
Resident and wintering raptors remain scattered throughout the Area as well as on private lands along Highway 31. Northern harriers are especially numerous over marsh and hay meadow areas and both red-tailed and rough-legged hawks are frequently seen. Rough-legged hawks are beginning to depart, heading towards arctic nesting areas.
Prairie falcons, bald and golden eagles are frequently seen during this time of the year, and peregrine falcons should arrive soon. The osprey pair at Ana Res. is occupying the nest structure and nesting is probably underway.
Great-horned owls remain very vocal during the night, and nesting for most pairs has begun with hatching to occur soon.
Passerine species (primarily sparrows) remain fairly common around the Headquarters Complex, Summer Lake Rest Area, homestead sites and shelterbreak plantings at the north end of the Area where they are attracted to tree and shrub cover found at those locations. Tree swallows are increasing in number, and arrival of other species continues with spring appearance of golden-crowned sparrows and increasing numbers of yellow-headed blackbirds and brown-headed cowbirds over the past week. A Eurasian collared dove was observed at headquarters yesterday. Large numbers of yellow-rumped warblers can be found throughout the entire Area and other warbler species should arrive soon. American pipits returned in good numbers as well and can be found foraging along dikes and the open edges of shallowly flooded ponds.
Viewers can expect to see increased numbers and diversity of some species on a regular basis over the next few weeks. Area breeding species and summer residents are increasing in number as they return from southern wintering locations. New species are arriving almost daily. However, arctic and northern nesting migrants will depart for other spring staging Areas after they replenish energy reserves in preparation for the next leg of their journey. Be sure to check the list at Headquarters for new arrivals and unusual birds.
Wetland habitats remain in excellent condition. Ponds and other still water areas are full or nearly so and high water levels have created numerous shallow temporary wetlands that are highly favored by many migrants. Since evaporation rates remain low and coupled with rain and snow showers temporary wetlands remain in good supply
Habitat management actions of controlled burning, drawdowns and drying as well as flooding of semi-permanent and seasonal wetlands are creating favorable forging sites for many species.
Natural food sources of seeds, tubers and plant parts remain very abundant and available in nearly all wetland areas. Emergent bulrushes, cattails and other sedges and rushes are lodged over due to strong winds and winter snow accumulation. Bird access and use has increased in these areas and viewing opportunities into these habitats have improved dramatically as well. Lush, green emergent vegetation growth is beginning to occur.
Upland sites are in excellent condition due to lush green-up of grasses and forb emergence and growth. Trees and shrubs are leafing out and many are blossoming now. Invertebrate activity is increasing with the warming temperatures and clouds of midges and others species are providing considerable food to insectivorous birds across the Area. Biting insects have yet to emerge in any number, probably due to frequent frosts and cool temperatures.
The Wildlife Viewing Loop is open and will remain that way until next fall. Other major dike roads (Bullgate, Windbreak and Work Road) are closed to motor vehicle travel from March 15th through August 15th to reduce disturbance to northward migrants and early nesting waterbirds (primarily Canada geese, mallard and sandhill cranes).
Viewer are urged to use care when driving roads since many are soft and muddy especially edges adjacent to ponds and canals.
Secondary and minor dikes will remain closed to motor vehicle traffic and cross country travel by motor vehicles or ATV’s is prohibited.
Non-motorized access and viewing opportunities are available across the entire Area at this time.
Camping is permitted at four sites on the wildlife area.
For additional information on viewing opportunities please contact the Wildlife Area at phone (541) 943-3152, fax (541) 943-3204, or email at martin.j.stlouis@state.or.us
NORTHEAST ZONE
FISHING
IMNAHA RIVER: River flow has increased recently and will likely reduce angler success. Results of the most recent creel survey indicated catch rates of 5.8 hours per fish. Steelhead angling success is generally best between 200 and 600 cfs. You can check Imnaha River flows online at http://waterdata.usgs.gov/or/nwis/uv?site_no13292000. Steelhead season on the Imnaha River ends on April 15.
JOHN DAY RIVER: All angling is closed from April 15 through May 25 upstream from Kimberly, but remains open below Kimberly year long. Smallmouth bass angling is just starting, with cool water temperatures making them pretty lethargic. Streamflow at the time this report was filed measured 3,780 cfs at Service Creek which is good level for angling, although slightly off color. Stream flow levels are available from the Service Creek gauging station at http://waterdata.usgs.gov/or/nwis/uv?14046500.
LADD POND (Peach Road): Stocked with legal rainbows week of April 9.
LONG CREEK POND, SEVENTH STREET POND, ANSON WRIGHT POND, AND BRANDON’S POND: Have all been recently stocked with legal sized rainbow trout.
LOWER GRANDE RONDE RIVER: Steelhead angling success has been poor because of high flow. Angling success should improve somewhat if flow recedes, but many fish bound for Wallowa system hatcheries are already upstream. Flows between 800 and 2000 cfs generally offer best fishing conditions. Steelhead season on the Grande Ronde River ends on April 15. Check the flow at http://waterdata.usgs.gov/or/nwis/uv/?site_no13333000&PARAmeter_cd00065,00060.
MAGONE LAKE: Angling success for brook and rainbow trout is good. Access is still blocked by snow from Four Corners, but is open through the Beech Creek route.
MARR POND: Was stocked recently with a small group of trout and a few early surplus steelhead, angling prospects are good. Stocking is scheduled for this week.
MCNARY, HAT ROCK and TATONE PONDS: McNary and Tatone ponds will be stocked this week. Fishing is expected to be good.
MCKAY RESERVOIR: The water level is now at 89% of capacity. Best opportunities are for trout and yellow perch. Anglers have had good success catching 14-16 inch rainbows. Trolling throughout the reservoir has been effective as well as fishing bait or lures at the inlet. Anglers fishing at the inlet need to make sure they are fishing in the reservoir and not in McKay Creek as the creek between the reservoir and Shaw Road does not open until April 28th.
ROULET POND: Stocked with legal rainbows week of April 9.
WALLOWA RIVER: Steelhead angling has been fair to good on the Wallowa River. The most recent creel survey data indicated catch rates of 5.5 hours per fish. Expect good angling success as long as river conditions remain favorable. Steelhead season on the Wallowa River ends on April 15.
WALLOWA WILDLIFE AREA POND: Angling is fair to good. The pond was recently stocked with surplus hatchery steelhead and should contain fair numbers of hold-over rainbow trout. The pond will be stocked this week.
UMATILLA RIVER: The first Spring Chinook of the season were caught over the weekend in the lower river. Based on Columbia River dam counts, the fishery should pick up this week. The pre-season estimate for the spring Chinook run is 2,500 fish. At this run size managers will likely need to implement an early closure to stay within harvest guidelines. River conditions are good with the flow between 300 and 600 cfs. No fish are being hauled upstream. For up-to-date flow information, visit the following website: www.usbr.gov/pn/hydromet/umatilla/index.html.
VICTOR POND: Angling is fair for hold-over rainbow trout. The pond will be stocked this week.
WALLOWA LAKE: The ice has melted off of Wallowa Lake and angling is fair for rainbow trout. Kokanee angling should improve within the next month as the lake begins to warm.
WESTON POND: This pond has been stocked with legal-sized rainbow trout. Fishing should be good.
WILLOW CREEK: This stream bas been stocked with legal-sized rainbow trout through the towns of Heppner, Lexington and Ione.
WILLOW CREEK RESERVOIR: The reservoir will be stocked with legal-sized rainbow trout this week. No recent reports on angling success.
HUNTING
For a complete 2007 spring bear forecast, visit http://www.dfw.state.or.us/hunting_forecast/index.asp
The general spring turkey hunting season opens April 15. For a complete forecast visit http://www.dfw.state.or.us/RR/hunting_forecast/turkey.asp
GRANT DISTRICT
COUGAR: Harvested cougars are required to be checked into an ODFW field office within 10 days of the hunt.
BAKER DISTRICT
SQUIRRELS: Excellent squirrel hunting can be found this time of year in the agricultural valleys. Many private landowners are happy to grant access to hunters who ask permission.
TURKEYS: Turkey hunters have experienced good success. Turkeys are found in varying densities around Baker County. Hunter should try the northern portions of Keating and Pine Creek Units, as well as the eastern edge of the Elkhorn Mountains in the Sumpter Unit.
BEARS: Bears are starting to become more active in low and mid elevation areas. Many high elevation areas are still covered in snow. Look for bears on south facing slopes with abundant forage.
COUGARS: Cougar numbers remain at high levels. With the absence of fresh snow cougar hunting is best accomplished with the use of calls and patience.
COYOTE: Good numbers of coyotes can be found throughout Baker County. Calling is most successful in areas of reduced human activity.
UMATILLA/PENDLETON DISTRICT
COUGAR: Cougars are well distributed in forested areas of the Walla Walla, Mt. Emily, and Ukiah units. Hunters will have best success by finding a fresh naturally made kill and sitting on it, or by using predator calls. Some success has come from following tracks until the cougar is located. Tracking conditions will improve with snows forecast for the end of November and December.
COYOTE: Coyotes are numerous throughout the District and hunters should have good success calling. Remember to ask permission before hunting on private lands.
WALLOWA DISTRICT
COUGAR: Cougar are abundant throughout Wallowa County, but can be difficult to observe. Locating fresh cougar sign and patiently calling attempting to imitate a fawn or calf in distress can sometimes be an effective technique.
COYOTE: Good numbers of coyotes can be found throughout Wallowa County. Coyote howlers work well this time of year. Calling is most successful in areas of reduced human activity.
TURKEY: Turkey are scattered throughout the Wenaha, Sled Springs, Chesnimnus, and North end of the Minam Units. Hunters have experienced good success in all units.
SPRING BEAR: All units have good bear densities. Bear activity has been slow, but will increase beginning in May. Hunters should focus on spot and stalk type hunting, glassing for bears in the early morning and late afternoon/evening hours. Bears can be spotted feeding on open canyon slopes. Some bears will respond to fawn distress type calls.
WILDLIFE VIEWING: Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep, elk, and mule deer can be observed at the Wenaha Wildlife Area, Troy, Oregon. Eden Bench provides a good opportunity to view deer and elk, while bighorn sheep are often observed in rim rocks above the Grande Ronde River.
ROAD CONDITIONS: Roads at higher elevations in the Imnaha and Snake River units are still impassable due to snow drifts. The 62 Road from Elgin to Troy in the Wenaha unit is also blocked by snow from Lookout Mountain to Hoodoo. Noregaard, Whiskey Creek, and Shamrock travel management areas in the Sled Springs unit are in effect through May 31.
UNION DISTRICT
COUGAR n Locating fresh cougar tracks in the snow continues to be a good starting point on where to hunt. More hunters are starting to use remotely activated calls with good results. Finding a fresh deer or elk kill that a cougar has fed on is an excellent place to set up a blind down wind of the carcass. Cougar will cover their kills between feeding and are most active in the morning and early evening. Cougar season closes statewide May 31 until August 1.
GROUND SQUIRRELSnThe warmer weather is bringing ground squirrels and providing a good opportunity for shooters. Scout agricultural grounds on the east side of the Grande Ronde Valley and southern Union County. Always ask for permission before hunting private lands. Many landowners are receptive to allowing youth ground squirrel hunters.
TURKEYn Spring turkey season opened April 15. The mild winter has resulted in excellent turkey survival.
BEARn Spring bear season opened April 15. Look for bears in mid to low elevations within the Starkey Unit. Successful hunters are requested to send in a premolar tooth for black bear population monitoring.
UMATILLA DISTRICT
SPRING BEAR: Controlled hunting open until May 15. Weather is warming up so bears should be out and hides will be in good condition for the next few weeks.
TURKEY: Premium turkey hunting season from now through May 31. Visit link below for full forecast for NE region incl. Umatilla County.
http://www.dfw.state.or.us/RR/hunting_forecast/northeast_turkey.asp
VIEWING
Bald eagles can be seen along the South Columbia River basin wildlife management areas. Deer and elk herds should be bunched up and visible in the Blue Mountains and bears are also out.
BAKER DISTRICT: Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep, mule deer, and bald eagles can be observed along Snake River Road between Huntington and Richland. Waterfowl viewing opportunities are abundant this time of year at the reservoir and pods of the county. Listen for ruffed grouse drumming in forested areas.
WALLOWA DISTRICT: Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep, elk, and mule deer can be observed at the Wenaha Wildlife Area, Troy, Oregon. Eden Bench provides a good opportunity to view deer and elk, while bighorn sheep are often observed in rim rocks above the Grande Ronde River. Bald eagles are common along the Grande Ronde River near Troy, and along the Wallowa River from Minam to Joseph.
BRIDGE CREEK WILDLIFE AREA: Good elk viewing opportunities at the Bridge Creek Wildlife Area in Pendleton.
ELKHORN WILDLIFE AREAS: Reopen to public access.
SNAKE RIVER ZONE
FISHING
BROWNLEE RESERVOIR: Crappie fishing has been good especailly at night. Bass fishing has been good and the fish are large. Perch and bluegill are being caught by boat and from shore. Use worms, jigs with crappie nibbles or cutbait. A few catfish are being picked up as well. The reservoir is rising and is at 10 feet below normal. Call Idaho Power Company’s recording at 1-800-422-3143 to get information on access at recreational sites or visit www.idahopower.com under the “Rivers and Recreation” heading. For reservoir level information, visit http://www.nwd-wc.usace.army.mil/perl/dataquery.pl?kbrownlee
OXBOW RESERVOIR: Fishing is slow.
HELLS CANYON RESERVOIR: Fishing is slow.
SNAKE RIVER (Below Hells Canyon Dam): Steelhead fishing is closed. As water warms, the bass fishing should increase.
COLUMBIA RIVER ZONE
Salmon, Steelhead, Shad:
BONNEVILLE POOL: Weekly checking showed one adipose fin-clipped spring Chinook kept for 13 bank rods; and no catch reported for one boat.
JOHN DAY POOL: No report.
Sturgeon
In the Lower Columbia River sturgeon catch rates declined from the previous weekend.
GORGE BANK: Weekend checking showed two legal white sturgeon kept, plus one oversize and one sublegal released for 23 bank anglers.
GORGE BOATS: Weekend checking showed no catch reported for two boats (complete trips).
TROUTDALE BOATS: Weekend checking showed three sublegal sturgeon released for 10 boats (complete trips).
PORTLAND TO LONGVIEW BOATS: Weekend checking showed seven legal white sturgeon kept, plus 100 sublegal sturgeon released for 51 boats (complete trips).
PORTLAND TO CLATSKANIE BANK: Weekly checking showed no catch reported for seven bank anglers.
ESTUARY BOATS: Weekend checking showed one legal white sturgeon kept, plus one sublegal sturgeon released for three boats (complete trips).
BONNEVILLE POOL: Weekly checking showed 12 sublegal sturgeon released for 34 bank rods; and 14 sublegal sturgeon released for seven boats.
JOHN DAY POOL: No report.
Walleye
BONNEVILLE POOL: Weekly checking showed no catch reported for four bank rods; and one walleye kept for two boats.
JOHN DAY POOL: No report.
MARINE ZONE
FISHING
Angler activity and success has been very good in the ocean when weather conditions permit. Lingcod fishing continues to be very good. Lingcod and cabezon move inshore to mate and lay eggs this time of year. Anglers may also find success fishing from jetties for these species. Spring is also the time that some estuaries see an influx of surfperch that come in to release their young. The marine daily bag limit for 2007 is six fish (including rockfish, greenling, cabezon and other marine species) and two lingcod and 15 surfperch. New this year, the daily limit for flatfish (flounders, soles, sanddabs, turbots and halibuts except Pacific halibut) is 25. Canary rockfish and yelloweye rockfish may not be retained. For illustrations and descriptions of these species see page 98 of the Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations booklet or download the Red Rockfish Identification Guide at http://www.dfw.state.or.us/MRP/regulations/sport_fishing. The minimum length for lingcod is 22 inches, for cabezon it is 16 inches and for greenling it is 10 inches. For complete regulations and the
Marine Sport Fishing Supplement, please see http://www.dfw.state.or.us/resources/fishing/
Ocean fishing for salmon, other than coho, opened March 15 south of Cape Falcon (near Manzanita) and north of Humbug Mountain (near Port Orford). This time of year, most chinook salmon are farther than 30 miles offshore and deep.
Crabbing in bays and estuaries is poor to fair. Some crabbers have had luck setting their gear higher in the estuary than normal. For sport crabbers the minimum size for Dungeness crab is 5 ¾ 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 93 of the Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations booklet.
The entire Oregon coast is open for the harvest of razor clams. There is a low-tide series in the late afternoon this week that should allow good clamming opportunities. The daily limit for razor clams is the first 15 taken regardless of size or condition. For more information on Oregon’s razor clams, including tips on how to dig razor clams, visit http://www.dfw.state.or.us/MRP/shellfish/razorclams. Sport harvest of mussels and bay clams is open coastwide also. A shellfish license is required for taking all shellfish.
For information on domoic acid visit the Oregon Department of Agriculture website at http://www.oregon.gov/ODA/FSD/shellfish_status.shtml or call their shellfish hotline at 503-986-4728 or 1-800-448-2474.
The Pacific halibut fishery is closed until May.
VIEWING
YAQUINA HEAD OUTSTANDING NATURAL AREA Accessible tide pools reveal their secrets at low tide. See anemones, hermit crabs, sea urchins, small fish, jelly fish, sea stars, barnacles and more. Look for harbor seals and sea lions.
The northbound migration of GRAY WHALES continues through the end of April. During the spring migration the whales are closer to shore and sometimes stop to eat. A group of more than 200 gray whales stay along the Oregon coast from the spring through fall. This resident population joins the Artic gray whales during their winter migration to the calving grounds in the Sea of Cortez and then returns each year to feed on small shrimp that live in Oregon’s kelp forests.
Calmer days are better whale watching days. Any spot with an ocean view may yield whale sightings, but higher locations are better than sandy beaches. Several carter boat operations along the coast offer whale-watching trips.
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