The Oregon Recreation Report (fishing, hunting, viewing), updated Tuesday, July 3, by the state Department of Fish and Wildlife:

Look for raptors in the summer sky.

Headed for the Coast in July? Two of the more uncommon raptors (birds of prey) seen on the north coast in the summer are the osprey and the white-tailed kite. Both are usually present during the summer but take a little effort to find. Osprey nest in several areas along the coast and are best located by looking near lakes with numbers of standing snags near the shoreline. Osprey are among the most specialized of hawks, hovering high over the water to spot fish and then diving head and feet first to capture their prey. Special pads on their feet help to grip the slippery fish. See the Northwest Zone Viewing section for more information.

Fourth of July holiday provides great fishing opportunities!

There is no better reason than the 4th of July holiday to grab the rods and reels and take the family to one of many beautiful lakes, streams, rivers, ponds or reservoirs in Oregon.

From mountain creeks and coastal rivers to high desert lakes, Oregon has the body of water suited for the beginner to the more experienced anglers.

The Columbia River provides plenty of fishing opportunities for chinook salmon and steelhead. The Snake River has smallmouth bass, channel catfish and flathead catfish. If you are traveling to the scenic Oregon coast try your luck catching tuna, herring or coho salmon. 

Don’t miss this opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors with your family and friends.

WILLAMETTE ZONE

Passage numbers for summer steelhead moving through the Willamette Falls fishway stayed strong last week. The summer-run steelhead counted through June 24 total 9,897. Water conditions in the mainstem Willamette and in both forks of the Santiam are good, but pressure remains relatively light. Salmon angling effort has all but ended on the Lower Willamette and the shad fishery has begun to wane although catches are still good. There has been some chinook effort in the lower harbor targeting the annual late-run fish. Counts at the falls through June 24 total 20,664 spring Chinook swimming past the viewing window at the fish ladder.

Water temperature in the North Santiam increased a few degrees last week as surface water from Detroit is being spilled. The warmer temperature will cause the fish to move upstream more quickly. Both chinook and steelhead are being picked up throughout the North and South forks and over 1700 steelhead have been recycled back downstream from the trap at Foster Dam.

FISHING

Stocking Schedule: South Willamette Watershed District: ODFW will stock Big Cliff Reservoir, Breitenbush River, Detroit Reservoir, Leaburg Lake, McKenzie above Leaburg Lake, Salt Creek, Santiam River North Fork above Detroit, Trail Bridge Reservoir and Willamette River Middle Fork above Hills Creek Reservoir the week of July 2.

In the North Willamette Watershed, ODFW stocked Faraday Lake, North Fork Reservoir, and Trillium Lake with rainbow trout the week of July 2. Scout Lake was stocked the week of June 25.

BREITENBUSH RIVER AND NORTH SANTIAM: trout

Breitenbush and North Santiam above Detroit Reservoir are both scheduled to be stocked by ODFW the week of July 2.

CLACKAMAS RIVER: chinook, steelhead, trout

Summer steelhead angling has been fair to good depending on where you fish. Location is also a factor when angling for chinook. Anglers will likely find better catch rates above Barton up to McIver Park. The best catches for bank anglers have been near Dog Creek upstream to Rivermill Dam. Boat anglers have caught fish from Dog Creek down to Feldheimer’s. The hatchery has begun to see some good numbers of spring chinook swim into the trap indicating there are fish to be had in the McIver Park area. Due to the low water conditions overall effort has decreased with very few boats out on the river. The Clackamas continued to drop in the past week which was reflected in Monday’s flow reading at 1,080 cfs (11.03’). The color remains good with the water temperature up near 60°.

Now that school is in summer recess and the weather is warming, anglers on the river need to be prepared for the arrival of recreational rafters. Planning a fishing trip for the morning hours is likely to leave you with less company on the river.

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.

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

Boaters should be aware that at these low summer flows many stretches of the river may only be accessible with a drift boat. Even with a drift boat or raft you could still be out walking through the thin spots. Reports of inexperienced jet sled operators hitting rocks are becoming common. This is particularly true above the Barton area.

DETROIT RESERVOIR: Rainbow Trout

The reservoir is full of catchable rainbow trout and is scheduled to be stocked the week of July 2 with additional trout.

FOSTER RESERVOIR: Rainbow Trout

Foster Reservoir is full and still has a lot of rainbow trout available. Bass can be caught along the face of the dam or shoreline.

GREEN PETER RESERVOIR: kokanee, chinook

Kokanee are hitting at about 50 feet deep where the water is suitably cool. Fish are running 13-14 inches and can be anywhere, depending on the day. Likely areas to try include around the island, or in the mouths of the larger arms of the lake. Flashers with spinner and white corn work well.

HENRY HAGG LAKE: trout, bass

Fishing is going well at Henry Hagg Lake. Anglers are encouraged to cast out as far as they can from either boat or bank. Fishing from the bottom with about 36 inches of lead seems to be producing results. Success has been seen fishing with a variety of different baits.

SUNNYSIDE POND: trout, bass, sunfish, catfish

Near Foster Reservoir has been stocked with trout. Trout stocking in the valley ponds is mostly completed for the season as water is warming up. All of these ponds support several species of warmwater game fish. Success for bass, sunfish, and catfish can be had by using bait and being patient.

SANDY RIVER: steelhead, chinook

Summer steelhead angling has been slow with a scattering of fish from Dodge down to Dabney. The Cedar Creek area near the hatchery has produced some decent days of catch for both summers and spring chinook, but the creek is experiencing unseasonably low flows. Mainstem Sandy River water levels are very low as well, so boaters need to watch for submerged logs and rocks. The glacial runoff has returned to the river and the water is white and silt-laden. The conditions on Monday showed flows had decreased again to 552 cfs (8.16’) with the water temperature hovering near 58°.

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.

WILLAMETTE RIVER: shad, sturgeon, warmwater species

Angling effort for spring chinook has pared back to just a small handful of boats in the lower Willamette harbor and in Oregon City. July 2 conditions showed Willamette flows at 6,800 cfs, a water temperature up to 70°, and the visibility at 6.0 feet.

There continues to be a lingering spring chinook fishery down in the lower harbor near St Johns as the annual push of late springers moves through. The Oregon City area near the mouth of the Clackamas River is also drawing some effort. Reports are that a few fish have been caught.

At this point in the run most of the shad will be found in the Oregon City area. The fish per boat averages are beginning to decline for kept and released shad but good catches can still be found. The number of boats out has dropped making a pleasant shad fishing trip for those who are on the river.

Please note that the Willamette River, including Multnomah Channel, is open for the retention of sturgeon under recently modified rules. Effective Feb. 1, 2007 the retention of sturgeon is allowed Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday of each week until July 31, 2007. 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.

Sturgeon catches have slowed in most sections of the lower Willamette. From the lower Portland Harbor near St Johns up through the Milwaukie/Oregon City area catches of sublegal sturgeon, with the occasional keeper sturgeon, have been reported. Bank fishing for sturgeon can be found at Meldrum Bar and at the wall in downtown Oregon City. Sturgeon anglers have used smelt or herring as effective bait.

Anglers are reminded that the Willamette provides an excellent warm water fishery in the summer months. You can expect to find an abundance of bass, crappie, and bluegill available. Target the rocky outcroppings, structures, or old pilings. The local tackle shops can set you up with the right gear and direct you to the best spots.

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. 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. Please be aware of current campfire rules, and always pack out what you pack in. Maps should be available at the local U.S. Forest Service office.

WARM WATER ANGLING:

The Portland metropolitan area, as well as the entire Willamette zone, offers many warm water fishing opportunities. A variety of species, including bass, bluegill, crappie, catfish, and perch are available to the summertime angler. Some of the waters to try include the Columbia River, the Willamette River (including Multnomah Channel), Henry Hagg Lake, and the Salish Ponds. Please refer to the ODFW website for additional warm water angling locations.

VIEWING

Event: Portland Audubon Society and Kruger’s Farm Market invite you to a Bald Eagle Release Party on Thursday, July 5, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Come Celebrate Removal of the Bald Eagle from the Federal Endangered Species List with a fun-filled evening of eagles and music at Kruger’s Farm Market on Sauvie Island. For more information.

http://www.audubonportland.org/events/eagle_release

Willamette Valley:

Take a look at viewing updates in the Eugene, Portland, Seaside and Sauvie Island sections below. Here are some species to look for in the Valley this month.

Black-tail deer: Black-tail deer bucks are now re-growing their antlers. While growing, new antlers are covered in soft velvet. Bucks rub their antlers on trees during late summer to scrape off the velvet. These deer are common throughout the Willamette Valley and can often be seen at ODFW Wildlife Areas EE Wilson, Fern Ridge and Sauvie Island. Morning and evening are best viewing times.

Elk: At this time of year, elk can often be seen at the William L. Finley National Wildlife Refuge near Corvallis. While viewing elk, look into the herds and you will be able to see the young bulls showing their spikes.

Information on wildlife viewing, photography and hiking opportunities

While out and about in the Valley, keep your eyes open for upland game birds such as grouse and valley quail traveling with their young. Fledglings are also abundant as young birds like the robin learn to take flight.

Clackamas River:

See cliff swallows nesting on mud banks of the Clackamas River. They can easily be viewed by boaters. Osprey nests are also visible from the river. Osprey are among the most specialized of hawks, hovering high over the water to spot fish and then diving head and feet first to capture their prey. Special pads on their feet help to grip the slippery fish. Information on ospreys in Oregon, http://fresc.usgs.gov/products/fs/fs-153-02.pdf

Eugene Area:

Fern Ridge Wildlife Area

ODFW’s Fern Ridge Wildlife Area and lake are open daily during the summer months. Viewing opportunities are excellent this time of year for many species of waterfowl and also osprey, black-necked stilts, yellow-headed blackbirds, and occasionally, pelicans.

This is an important time of year for breeding waterfowl and other wetland dependent wildlife species so, please, keep your dogs on leash at all times until Sept. 1. Many of the birds are ground-nesting species, and it is particularly important to keep dogs under control and on leash when hiking on the wildlife area. If your dog does flush a bird from a nest or get in close proximity to a brood, please lead the dog away immediately, and try to minimize the disturbance to the birds. 

Bird checklists and maps are available at area parking lots or by contacting the Wildlife Area headquarters at (541) 935-2591. Directions to Fern Ridge. http://www.dfw.state.or.us/wildlifearea/fernridge.htm

Monmouth Area:

Spring is a great time to go birdwatching at the EE Wilson Wildlife Area while the waterfowl broods and songbirds are caring for their young. Bring along your fishing pool—visitors have reported good fishing at the Adair pond and the Vanderpool State Greenway pond for warmwater fish.

Directions. http://www.dfw.state.or.us/wildlifearea/eewilson.htm

Portland:

While you’re at the zoo this summer make a point to stop at The Great Northwest Exhibit. Here you can walk through a native Oregon forest peppered with bears, cougars, bobcats and eagles. Get a close up look at the animals that live in our state, see what a bald eagle looks like at eye level, learn what fish are swimming in Oregon’s rivers and discover how to recognize animal tracks.

To learn more about the exhibit, visit the Oregon Zoo Web site. http://www.oregonzoo.org/Exhibits/GreatNW/main.htm

Sandy Area:

See bald eagles and osprey foraging at Rosyln Lake. An active bald eagle is nest site visible from lake.

Sauvie Island Wildlife Area:

Come out and watch young birds as they learn new skills and gain their independence. At Sauvie Island Wildlife Area, you can easily see many of the resident waterfowl trailing goslings and ducklings. In addition to the red and gold finches that are common on Sauvie Island, a Western Meadow Lark, Oregon’s state bird, has been recently spotted. The Meadow Lark is characterized by a bright yellow breast and double noted, flute-like song. Hear it sing at WhatBird.com.

A parking permit is required for the Sauvie Island Wildlife Area and can be purchased at ODFW Point of Sale vendors. A daily permit is $3.50 and an annual permit is only $11.00. Directions. http://www.dfw.state.or.us/wildlifearea/sauvieisland.htm

NORTHWEST ZONE

Angling for warm water species should be fair to good. Cape Meares, Lytle, Sunset, Cullaby, and Coffenbury lakes offer good opportunities for warm water fish, particularly largemouth bass

FISHING

NORTH COAST LAKES: Tahoe Lake was stocked with rainbow trout the week of June 25. These were leftover fish from a youth fishing event, and are a mixture of legal size and trophy size fish (up to 2 lbs.) Spring trout stocking is now complete for this year. Trophy trout stocking is scheduled to occur in September, although low water flows may necessitate early releases. ODFW will announce any changes to the schedule if necessary. 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 or Astoria Oregon Department of Forestry 503-325-5451 for more information.

MID COAST LAKES: Rainbow trout stocking of the Mid Coast lakes is complete for the year.

WARM WATER FISH SPECIES: Devils Lake near Lincoln City and Mercer Lake, Munsel Lake, Woahink Lake, Siltcoos Lake and Tahkenitch Lake near Florence have good populations of warm water fish species such as large mouth bass, blue gill, yellow perch, crappie, and brown bullhead. Typically good fishing occurs from late spring through early fall for these species. A variety of lures and baits can be effective with the best fishing in the morning and late afternoon hours.

ALSEA RIVER: cutthroat trout

Anglers can expect fair to good fishing for cutthroat trout throughout the Alsea River Basin. Sea run cutthroat (Bluebacks) will start returning around mid July. Small spinners or spoons work well for cutthroat trout. Current river levels and forecasts can be found at http://www.nwrfc.noaa.gov/river/station/flowplot/flowplot.cgi?TIDO3.

NECANICUM RIVER: cutthroat trout

Catch and release angling for sea-run cutthroat will improve as fish begin to enter the river in July.

NEHALEM RIVER AND NORTH FORK NEHALEM RIVER: chinook, cutthroat trout

Angling for chinook in Nehalem Bay is slow. A few chinook have been caught in the ocean near the mouth of the bay. Catch and release trout fishing should be good. Sea run cutthroat will begin entering the system in July. Casting or trolling small lures or flies in the estuary should be effective for fish fresh in from saltwater.

NESTUCCA RIVER AND THREE RIVERS: chinook, steelhead, trout

Angling for spring chinook and summer steelhead is slow to fair. Water is very low and clear. Use light gear for best results. Catch and release fishing for cutthroat trout should be good. Sea-run cutthroat will begin entering the river in July. Target these fish in the lower river. You may check river levels at http://ahps2.wrh.noaa.gov/ahps2/hydrograph.php?wfo=pqr.

SALMON RIVER: cutthroat trout

Anglers can expect fair to good fishing for resident cutthroat trout. Small spoons and spinners are very effective. Sea run cutthroat typically start to show around mid July and can be caught in upper tide water and the lower portions of the mainstem river.

SILETZ RIVER: steelhead, cutthroat trout

Steelhead fishing is good in the upper river from Moonshine Park to the fishing deadline. Good numbers of summer steelhead are returning. Bank fishing is currently the most effective because of low summer flows. Anglers are using a variety of baits, jigs, spoons and spinners with the best success in the morning and evening hours or during or just after a rain event. Resident cutthroat trout angling is good throughout the mainstem and tributaries. Sea run cutthroat typically start showing around mid July in the lower portions of the river. Current river levels and forecasts can be found at http://www.nwrfc.noaa.gov/river/station/flowplot/flowplot.cgi?SILO3

SIUSLAW RIVER: cutthroat trout

Resident cutthroat trout fishing is good throughout the mainstem and tributaries. Sea run cutthroat (Bluebacks) typically start to show in the lower river and tidewater around mid July. Small spinners or spoons work well for cutthroat trout. Current river levels and forecasts can be found at http://www.nwrfc.noaa.gov/river/station/flowplot/flowplot.cgi?MPLO3.

TILLAMOOK BAY: sturgeon

Angling for sturgeon has been slow to fair. Effort has been low. Best success will be in the upper bay and Tillamook River tidewater.

WILSON AND TRASK RIVERS: steelhead, chinook, cutthroat trout

Angling for spring chinook and summer steelhead is slow. Rivers are low and clear. Spring chinook will be concentrated in the lower rivers, but steelhead will be more spread out. Use light gear and small lures or bait, and fish early or late in the day for best results. Catch and release fishing for trout should be good, especially as sea-run cutthroat move upstream in July. Check river levels prior to fishing at http://ahps2.wrh.noaa.gov/ahps2/index.php?wfo=pqr

YAQUINA RIVER: cutthroat trout

Resident cutthroat trout fishing is fair to good throughout the mainstem and tributaries. Sea run cutthroat trout typically start to return to upper tidewater and/or lower river sections around mid July. Small spinners or spoons on light rods and line work well for cutthroat trout.

VIEWING

North Coast:

Wait until the sun goes down

Wildlife viewing just after sundown gives the viewer access to a whole new suite of species that are just beginning their activity cycle. Owls, bats, small mammals and predators like bobcats are active almost exclusively at night but begin their emergence while viewing conditions are still quite good.

Look for common nighthawks in the twilight summer sky, hunting insects in the early evening over towns, fields and clearings. Nighthawks are dark overall with white wing patches and can be distinguished from other evening insect hunters (swallows, swifts and early-emerging bats) by their relatively large size—they have a wingspan of nearly two feet. Active all night, nighthawks roost during the day on the ground or lengthwise along a tree branch, where they are well camouflaged.

Look for raptors in the summer sky

Two of the more uncommon raptors (birds of prey) seen on the north coast in the summer are the osprey and the white-tailed kite. Both are usually present during the summer but take a little effort to find. Osprey nest in several areas along the coast and are best located by looking near lakes with numbers of standing snags near the shoreline. Osprey are among the most specialized of hawks, hovering high over the water to spot fish and then diving head and feet first to capture their prey. Special pads on their feet help to grip the slippery fish.

Kites may be found most often in open fields and marshy areas with widely-scattered trees and fence posts. They will hover in place before swooping down, wings raised, to capture small rodents. Kestrels have the same hunting habit, but kites are a bit larger and are very distinctive being mostly white with black shoulder patches. Both osprey and white-tailed kites superficially resemble gulls when in flight, being mostly white (the osprey only from below) with a few dark patches, and both can be very vocal when on the wing. For more information on white-tailed kites, http://www.audubonportland.org/trips_classes_camps/junioraudubonclub/bird_month/white_tailed_kite

Listen for Songbirds

Songbirds can be heard throughout forests on the north coast. Don’t overlook clearcuts with snags or leave trees (trees left standing) in them; they can host an entirely different suite of birds than older forests do. See and hear western bluebirds, mountain quail, olive-sided flycatchers, red-tailed hawks and robins.

Arch Cape:

There are some great seabird nesting colonies on the coast, including Castle Rock west of Arch Cape. Castle Rock is a sea stack off Hug Point.

Cannon Beach:

If you are going to Cannon Beach, walk toward Haystack Rock and bring a spotting scope or a pair of binoculars—you may see tufted puffins nesting high on the rock.

A colony of 200-300 tufted puffins journeys to Haystack Rock every summer to breed and hatch their chicks. The puffins arrive in late March or early April and return to the open sea in late July or early August.

Clatskanie:

Visitors are taking advantage of the newest nature trail at Gnat Creek Hatchery. The 2-mile trail is great for mountain biking and hiking. While on the trail, keep an eye out for sea-run cutthroat trout that are visible in the Barrier Falls pool and all the way up to the hatchery.

On the new trail, you may also get the chance to watch American dippers. These unusual birds, sometimes called water ouzels, actually forage underwater. Whether wading, walking on the bottom, or swimming through the water, dippers eat aquatic insects, snails, fish eggs and small fish. To see photos and hear a bird call, visit

http://www.birds.cornell.edu/AllAboutBirds/BirdGuide/American_Dipper.html#sound

Florence Area:

Dabbling ducks can number in the thousands on Siltcoos Lake south of Florence.

Protected nesting areas for snowy plovers are in the dunes at the mouths of Siltcoos and Tahkenitch Creeks.

Seaside:

Visitors to ODFW’s Jewell Meadows Wildlife Area usually go to see the magnificent Roosevelt Elk, but this month, they might be lucky enough to see a pileated woodpecker as well. Every few days, the woodpecker is seen flying through the wildlife area, but can be regularly heard announcing its presence by excavating in dead trees.

While viewing elk, look into the herds and you will be able to see the young bulls showing their spikes. Viewing for elk calves may be difficult due to the tall grass in most meadows. Watch for vegetation movement behind adults as calves try to follow their mothers through the tall grass.  Best viewing times are early morning and late evening. Get directions to the wildlife area. http://www.dfw.state.or.us/wildlifearea/jewellmeodows.htm

Tillamook Area:

Three Arch Rocks National Wildlife Refuge is a collection of several nearshore 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. Now hundreds of thousands of seabirds are nesting on the larger rocks, including murres, auklets and puffins. A good spotting scope is very helpful for viewing. More information. http://www.fws.gov/oregoncoast/3archrocks/

Yaquina Bay:

Harlequin ducks are often sighted at the Yaquina Bay south jetty and at Seal Rocks. Numerous species of waterfowl and shorebirds are actively feeding in and around coastal estuaries and lakes. 

Summer is a great time to visit Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area to see colonial nesting birds such as Common Murre, Brandt's Cormorant and Pigeon Guillemot. Nearby shores and rocky beaches are good locations for spotting Harbor Seal and California Sea Lion. The Historic Lighthouse just off Hwy 101 is a great place to view migrating Gray whales. The trail leading to the tide pools is ADA accessible.

SOUTHWEST ZONE

Due to the low spring chinook run this year, emergency regulations went into effect June 21 on the Rogue River to protect wild spring chinook salmon. From Gold Ray Dam to Rogue Elk boat ramp: July 1-October 31, closed to all chinook salmon angling. From Rogue Elk ramp to Cole Rivers Hatchery dam: June 21-July 31, closed to harvest of nonadipose fin-clipped chinook salmon; August 1-October 31 closed to all chinook salmon angling.

FISHING

AGATE LAKE: largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, yellow perch, bullhead

Fishing has been good for largemouth bass, crappie, and bluegill. Fishing will probably be best during mornings and evenings as the weather heats up.

APPLEGATE RIVER: trout

Open for trout.

APPLEGATE RESERVOIR: trout, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass

Angling has been good for trout, largemouth bass, and smallmouth bass. Fishing will probably be best during mornings and evenings as the weather heats up.

BABYFOOT LAKE: rainbow trout

Access is by forest service trail located off Eight Dollar Road. The trail is 1 mile long. Flies or small spinners tend to work the best for 12-14 inch rainbows. Anglers wanting to fish the lake should contact the USFS Ranger District office located in Cave Junction for maps and road closure information. Fishing conditions will be excellent all summer.

BURMA POND: rainbow trout, largemouth bass

Angling for rainbow trout is good. 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: cutthroat trout

Access is excellent for bank and boat anglers. Cutthroat fishing is excellent, and should remain excellent all summer. Anglers wishing a wilderness experience can access the upper Chetco River Watershed at several trail heads. Anglers should contact the USFS Ranger District office in Brookings for maps and trail conditions. Spinners or flies tend to work the best.

COOS COUNTY LAKES: trout, bass

Local lake water temperatures will start to rise as we get into summer. Anglers should concentrate their efforts in the morning and evening. Trout may become more difficult to catch but bass and bluegill should be good through the summer. Warmwater fishing is good with many nice bass being caught at Tenmile Lakes. Saunders Lake and Empire Lakes can be productive for bass also.

COOS RIVER BASIN: shad, trout

Shad fishing is still fair but will likely start to slow down now. Most shad fishing takes place on the lower Coos and Millicoma Rivers where anglers troll or cast shad darts. Evening fishing has been best with sunny afternoons also good. Trout angling is open with anglers restricted to flies and lures only if fishing streams above tidewater. Surf perch and other marine fish are available in Coos Bay. Anglers should concentrate around rock structure or pilings.

COQUILLE RIVER BASIN: shad, striped bass

Shad fishing has been good on the Coquille with late afternoons and into the evening the best time. Shad anglers should get out now to catch the end of the run as fishing will start to tail off. The dock at Sturdivant Park is a good spot for bank fishers. Striped bass are available in the Coquille estuary, anglers usually do better fishing after dark. Sand shrimp and large plugs that immitate small fish can be effective with most fishing taking place up to Arago. The dike at Johnson Mill Pond can be a good place to catch stripers.

DIAMOND LAKE: rainbow trout

Fishing has slowed a little at the lake; the water clarity is the best that it has been in many years. Boat anglers are still catching some limits of fish. The fish have spread throughout the lake and the best fishing is occurring on the west side of the lake and near the mouth of Silent Creek. Boat anglers were doing well anchored up and waiting for the fish to find the bait, although with the improved water conditions trolling has improved. Power bait has been the most effective. Anglers need to remember that the limit is five fish per day, and only one trout over 20” may be harvested per day.

DUTCH HERMAN POND: rainbow trout, largemouth bass, bluegill

Fishing should be good.

EMIGRANT RESERVOIR: trout, bass

Angling for rainbow trout, bass, and panfish should be good. Fishing will probably be best during mornings and evenings as the weather heats up.

EXPO POND: rainbow trout, bass, panfish

Fishing for trout, bass, and panfish should be good. Fishing will probably be best during mornings and evenings as the weather heats up.

FISH LAKE: rainbow trout

Fishing for stocked rainbow trout has been good.

GARRISON LAKE: trout, largemouth bass

The boat access is off the 12th street boat ramp. Bank access is limited to Tseriadun State Park, 12th street boat ramp, Silver Butte Road and Arizona Street. Weed growth will limit bank angling. Good numbers of trophy trout and cutthroat are still available mainly on the north end of the lake. Some largemouth bass can be caught out of the mill pond on the east side of Arizona Street in Port Orford.

HOWARD PRAIRIE: rainbow trout, largemouth bass

Anglers are catching a few large, hold-over rainbow trout, as well as the recently planted legal-sized rainbow trout. Fishing for largemouth bass should be good.

HYATT RESERVOIR:  rainbow trout, largemouth bass

Anglers are catching a few large, hold-over rainbow trout, as well as the recently planted legal-sized rainbow trout. Fishing for largemouth bass should be improving with the warmer weather. Smaller size largemouth are plentiful and easy to catch.

ILLINOIS RIVER: trout, steelhead

Open for trout and steelhead; however, fishing is slow.

LAIRD LAKE: trout

Located approximately 15 miles up Elk River road. The road is gravel for the last 8 miles. The lake is small with a lot of woody material. Bank access is good, with a float tube or small inflatable boat a good choice. The lake is stock biannually with trout. Small spinners or single eggs are the best bait.

LAKE SELMAC: trout, bass

Fishing for rainbow trout, largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, and bullheads has been good. Fishing will probably be best during mornings and evenings as the weather heats up.

LEMOLO LAKE: brown trout, rainbow trout

There is a blue green algae warning in effect for Lemolo. The lake is still open for camping and fishing. Fishing is very slow at this time as water temperatures continue to increase.

LIBBY POND: trout

Located approximately 8 miles up the north bank of Rogue River Road. Bank access is excellent. No boats are allowed. Trout are stocked several times in the spring with fishing winding down in June as water temperatures get to high. Power bait fished just off the bottom is the lure of choice with most anglers.

LOST CREEK RESERVOIR: trout, smallmouth bass

Fishing for trout and smallmouth bass has been good.

MEDCO POND: trout, largemouth bass, panfish

Fishing for rainbow trout, largemouth bass, and panfish should be good. 

PACIFIC OCEAN & BEACHES: chinook, halibut, tuna

The selective coho season in the ocean from Cape Falcon to Humbug Mountain is open now. Ocean salmon fishing is improving and should continue to get better over the next couple weeks. Another all-depth halibut season is scheduled for July 5,6,7. Tuna have also moved closer in and anglers have done well fishing for them. Tuna trips still require a long boat ride in the ocean. Anglers should be cautious with the weather and ocean conditions. It is best to buddy up with other boats in case of mechanical problems. Bottom fishing has slowed some but fish are still available. Surfperch fishing has been fair for anglers casting bait from the beach. Sand shrimp, clam necks, mussels, and marine worms are all popular choices for bait. Good areas for surfperch include Horsfall Beach and Whiskey Run Beach south to Bandon. Look for steep beaches or small streams entering the ocean. Surfperch can also be found along jetties and pile structures. Striped bass occasionally surprise surf fishers also.

REINHART PARK POND: trout, bass

Fishing for rainbow trout, largemouth bass, and panfish should be good. Fishing will probably be best during mornings and evenings as the weather heats up.

ROGUE RIVER, LOWER: spring chinook, steelhead

Spring chinook fishing is winding down. Water temperatures are expected to jump this week with warming valley temperatures. Anglers targeting spring chinook should fish at first light. The first reported summer steelhead came in last week. Anglers can expect summer steelhead fishing to be fair in June, with August and September the best months.

ROGUE RIVER, MIDDLE: chinook, trout

Angling for spring chinook improved slightly this past week but angler success is still slow. A few summer steelhead are starting to show up in the catch. Anglers are having some success on steelhead using hotshot plugs. Flows were 1,630 cubic feet per second at Grants Pass as of Monday morning. Due to the low spring chinook run this year, emergency regulations went into effect on June 21 to protect the wild spring chinook salmon. The Rogue River will be closed to harvest of non-adipose fin-clipped chinook salmon through July 31 from Whiskey Creek to Hog Creek boat landing and through August 14 from Hog Creek boat landing to Gold Ray Dam. The Rogue River is now open to trout angling; however, only adipose fin-clipped rainbow trout may be kept. Anglers are advised that as of Monday morning, the Oregon Department of Forestry issued an advisory to Galice area river users regarding a wildfire burning in that area. Galice area river users should contact Oregon Department of Forestry at 621-4156 for more information.

ROGUE RIVER, UPPER: chinook, trout

Angling for spring chinook has been fair, with the best chance for success occurring early or late in the day. Anglers are starting to catch a few summer steelhead. The number of chinook and steelhead moving into the upper river has remained low. A total of 7864 spring chinook salmon and 400 summer steelhead have been counted at Gold Ray Dam as of June 26. Due to the low spring chinook run this year, emergency regulations went into effect on June 21 to protect the wild spring chinook salmon. From Gold Ray Dam to Rogue Elk boat Ramp; July 1-Oct. 31, closed to all chinook salmon angling. From Rogue Elk ramp to Cole Rivers Hatchery dam: June 21-July 31, closed to harvest of nonadipose fin-clipped chinook salmon; August 1-October 31,closed to all chinook salmon angling. The outflows from Lost Creek Reservoir were 1,715 cubic feet per second and the outflow temperature was 51oF as of Monday morning. The Rogue River is open to trout angling; however, only adipose fin-clipped rainbow trout may be kept. Trout fishing has been good on flies, spinners and nightcrawlers with occasional large cutthroat being caught.

ROGUE RIVER, ABOVE LOST CREEK DAM: rainbow trout, brown trout, brook trout

Legal-sized rainbow were stocked at most of the campgrounds and major access points along the river between Prospect and Minnehaha Creek. Brook trout and a few brown trout are available as well.

SODA SPRINGS RESERVOIR: brown and rainbow trout

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: striped bass, cutthroat trout

Trout season is open on Smith River and fishing should be good. Small spinners and rooster tails generally work the best. Mainstem Smith River below Sisters Creek is catch and release only on trout. Tributaries and the mainstem above Sisters is open for harvest of trout

SOUTH COAST LAKES AND PONDS: trout

Garrison Lake is still the number one choice for trout anglers. The fish seemed to be concentrated on the North side of the lake. Anglers will need to fish a boat to keep outside the weed line.

SOUTH COAST STREAMS: cutthroat trout, steelhead smolts

Conditions are excellent. Anglers can expect a mix of post spawn sea run cutthroat and steelhead smolts. Both of which are activily feeding on chinook fry and sculpins. The best action is early morning and evening. Anglers are reminded to carefully release all undersized fish.

SOUTH COAST BEACHES: perch

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: rainbow trout

Fishing is good for stocked rainbow trout. 

TENMILE BASIN: trout

Trout season is now open.

TOKETEE LAKE: brown trout

Fishing is open in Toketee all year round. As water temperatures slowly increase German Brown fishing will improve.

UMPQUA ESTUARY: sturgeon

Sturgeon fishing has been slow, some green sturgeon are being picked up in the Big Bend area. Crabbing is finally beginning to pick up with some limits being caught.

UMPQUA HIGH LAKES AND FOREBAYS: trout

A number of the high lakes, with truck access, have been stocked. Horseback high lake stocking will begin this week. Fish will be stocked into lakes that have hiking access only. Fishing in these lakes should be good and there should be large numbers of holdovers also. Many of the wilderness lakes are open and fishing for eastern brook trout is good. Check with the local Forest Service ranger districts on road conditions.

UMPQUA RIVER MAINSTEM: shad, bass

Shad fishing was slow this year and the run is past its peak. For those who wish to continue fishing for shad, Sawyers Rapids is the place to go. Shad can be caught at the rapids through August. Smallmouth fishing is good; worms and crawfish plugs are working the best. Remember this section of the river is closed to wild steelhead retention.

UMPQUA RIVER, NORTH: steelhead

Spring chinook and summer steelhead numbers crossing at Winchester Dam have slowed. Fishing remains sporadic, with some spring chinook and summer steelhead being harvested in the Rock Creek area. Winchester Dam counts show that 5,159 spring chinook and 607 summer steelhead have passed over the dam through June 15th

UMPQUA RIVER, SOUTH: trout, bass

The South Umpqua is open for trout season. Smallmouth bass fishing is very good right now, and will only get better as stream flows continue to drop.

WILLOW LAKE: trout, bass

Angling for trout, bass and other warmwater fish is good. 

WINCHESTER BAY: sturgeon

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

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 fair to good in the ocean but bay crabbing remains slow. 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.

For information about bay clams: http://www.dfw.state.or.us/MRP/shellfish/bayclams/

VIEWING

Coos County

Biologist Stuart Love, of ODFW’s Charleston office, notes that California brown pelican numbers are increasing along the coastline and in bays. This is the time of year that non-nesting adults begin to congregate in larger numbers. Information about the species can be found on the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Web site.

http://www.fws.gov/oregonfwo/Species/Data/BrownPelican/default.asp

Bait fish (herring, anchovies and sardines) are appearing close to shore and in bays. This attracts seabirds like murres, gulls, and pelicans that feed on the fish. Watching a group of pelicans dive on a school of bait fish can be spectacular. Good places to see this activity are any of the local bays or various view points along the coast line.

 

For good wildlife viewing, visit Dean Creek Elk Viewing Area located east of Reedsport on Hwy. 38 and Bandon National Wildlife Refuge near Bandon. For more information. http://www.co.douglas.or.us/countyinfo/elk.html

Although black bears elusive animals, those wishing to see them may have some luck using binoculars or spotting scopes to watch forest openings. Salmonberries are ripening in lower elevation along the coast. Bears can be found in these areas near salmonberry patches.

Band-tailed pigeons are now appearing in large numbers. In spring these birds migrate into Oregon for feeding and nesting. They generally feed—noisily—on fruits, nuts and seeds of trees through the summer. They begin nesting early in the summer laying one or two eggs. Once these hatch they initiate another nest and continue this through the summer, sometimes bringing off more than one brood.

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. Occasionally, large groups of black brant can be seen resting in local bays on their migration north.

Douglas County

ODFW Biologist Marnie Allbritten tells us that upland game birds are bringing their broods off the nests now and for the next few weeks. Keep an eye out for Mountain quail, Valley quail, roughed grouse, blue grouse and turkeys on gravel roads and in forest and farmland clearings. If you're lucky enough to spot them, pull over to the side of the road and watch quietly from 10-15 yards away. In a few minutes, if you're patient, the adults will cross the road and call the babies to them. You can count just how many young our game birds are raising as the babies run or sometimes fly in front of you.

Diamond Lake

Going to Crater Lake? Stop by and visit the Gem of the Cascades, Diamond Lake. Nesting bald eagles are very much in evidence at the lake. There is also a nesting pair of common loons. In contrast to their name, they are anything but common in Oregon.

To see a photo and hear the haunting call of the bird, visit http://identify.whatbird.com/obj/67/_/Common_Loon.aspx

Roseburg

Ducklings and goslings are now frequently observed at Stewart Park in Roseburg.

Rogue Watershed

Denman Wildlife Management Area

The 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. For directions, visit the ODFW Web site, http://www.dfw.state.or.us/wildlifearea/denman.htm

Grants Pass Area

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.

Medford 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. Be aware of rattle snakes along trail. For directions, http://www.nature.org/wherewework/northamerica/states/oregon/preserves/art6805.html

South Coast

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 find them.

Trail

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.

CENTRAL ZONE

FISHING

As water temperatures warm up try fishing in deeper water for rainbow trout. There are good opportunities to catch Whitefish and they are good to eat. Try fishing the Metolius, Deschutes and Crooked River arms of Lake Billy Chinook for good size kokanee.

ANTELOPE FLAT RESERVOIR: rainbow trout

Angling for rainbow trout is poor. Water temperature is warm and fish are concentrated in the deeper water and lethargic. Opportunities should pick up in the fall.

BIG LAVA LAKE: rainbow trout

Big Lava Lake anglers are having good success on 13 n 16 inch rainbows.

CLEAR LAKE: rainbow trout

Clear Lake has been stocked several times this spring with both legal and trophy sized rainbow trout. Fishing should remain good as long reservoir levels remain full.

CRANE PRAIRIE RESERVOIR: rainbow trout

The bite at Crane Prairie has picked up with a number of 10 n 12 inch rainbows being caught on top of the occasional 20 inch rainbow trout.

CRESCENT LAKE: brown trout, kokanee

Brown trout catches at Crescent Lake have slowed though folks are still having good success for kokanee.

CROOKED RIVER BELOW BOWMAN DAM: redband trout

Opportunities for rainbow trout are fair. Recent surveys indicate the trout population remains low compared to previous years. Whitefish are very abundant. Anglers are encouraged to harvest this highly edible game fish.

CULTUS LAKE: No report as of July 3, 2007.

DAVIS LAKE: largemouth bass, redband trout

Anglers are having fair success catching largemouth bass and an occasional redband trout.

DESCHUTES RIVER:

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.

Trout Anglers: Fly anglers in the Warm Springs Area continue to find good success on the tail end of the salmonfly and golden stone hatch. Downstream of Trout Creek fly anglers should begin focusing on nymphs and other hatches such as caddis or mayflies. Anglers should focus their attention near the river bank or in back eddies. Angers are reminded that extremely warm temperatures may trigger glacial melting on the White River, and fishing conditions in the Deschutes downstream of White River may be less than optimal due to turbid waters.

Spring Chinook: Fishing has slowed considerably in the Sherars Falls area. The bulk of the catch is beginning to be comprised of jacks, indicating most of the run has likely past upstream.

Benham Falls to Wickiup Reservoir: Reports of some nice brown trout being caught in this reach.

Wickiup to Crane Prairie Reservoir: Reports of a few nice rainbow trout being caught in this reach.

Crane Prairie to Little Lava Lake: No reports on success for this reach of river.

EAST LAKE: rainbow trout, brown trout

Anglers are reportedly catching rainbow trout, brown trout and a surprising number of Atlantic salmon. The Atlantics are averaging 12 inches in length.

ELK LAKE: brook trout, kokanee

Anglers are reporting some nice catches of brook trout. Kokanee are also available for the elk lake angler.

FALL RIVER:

No report as of July 3, 2007.

FROG LAKE: rainbow trout

Frog Lake was recently stocked with legal and trophy sized hatchery rainbow trout. Anglers should expect good success.

HAYSTACK RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, brown trout

Opportunities for 12-18 inch rainbow and brown trout are poor.

HOOD RIVER: spring chinook, summer steelhead

Spring chinook angling remains open through the end of June on the Hood River. Spring chinook catch has slowed, but occasional fish continue to be taken. Early return summer steelhead are beginning to show up in decent numbers in the creel and at Powerdale Dam. The ODFW operates a “recycling” program for hatchery origin summer steelhead, retuning them to the mouth of the river after they are captured at Powerdale Dam. Anglers are finding steelhead success using nearly all traditional steelhead techniques.

HOSMER LAKE: No reports as of July 3. The lake is now accessible.

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

Kokanee angling has been picking up with good catches reported in all three arms of the reservoir. Fish are larger this year with the average size 12-14 inches.

LAKE SIMTUSTUS: rainbow trout

Opportunities for 8-10 inch rainbow trout are excellent. A limited number of carryover trout from 14-18 inches are also available. Tribal angling permit as well as State license is required.

LAURANCE LAKE: rainbow trout, smallmouth bass

Laurance Lake has been stocked with fin clipped hatchery rainbow trout. Anglers should find good success on both hatchery trout, and naturally produced wild trout. Anglers are reminded that only artificial flies and lures are allowed, and only fin-clipped trout can be kept. Anglers are encouraged to keep all smallmouth bass caught.

LITTLE LAVA LAKE: rainbow trout

Angling has reportedly picked up with some nice rainbow trout and brook trout being caught.

LOST LAKE: rainbow trout

Lost Lake has been recently stocked with legal and trophy sized hatchery rainbow trout. Some naturally produced brown trout are also available for anglers. Anglers should focus on the shallower shoal areas for best success.

METOLIUS RIVER: No report as of July 3.

NORTH TWIN: rainbow trout

Angling is still a bit on slow side. 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: rainbow trout

Opportunities for 12-16 inch rainbow trout are fair to good. Black crappie angling has been excellent. Anglers should target areas with cover near the shoreline.

ODELL LAKE: kokanee

Odell is still producing good catches of kokanee for anglers. Kokanee are running 9 to 12 inches in length Anglers should be on the lake at daylight and late in day for best results

PAULINA LAKE: kokanee, brown trout

Anglers are reporting good catches of kokanee in the 8 n 10 inch range. The brown trout fishing is still a little on the slow side.

PINE HOLLOW RESERVOIR: rainbow trout

Pine Hollow Reservoir was stocked several times with legal and trophy size hatchery rainbow. Warm water anglers should begin finding good success as temperatures warm.

PRINEVILLE RESERVOIR: rainbow trout

Opportunities for 12-16 inch rainbow trout are fair to good.

ROCK CREEK RESERVOIR: rainbow trout

Rock Creek Reservoir has been stocked several times with legal and trophy size hatchery rainbow. Fishing should remain good until reservoir levels begin dropping.

SOUTH TWIN LAKE: rainbow trout

The weekend fishing on South Twin was reported to be fair. 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:

No reports from anglers as of July 3

WALTON LAKE: rainbow trout

Opportunities for legal sized rainbow trout are excellent. Walton was stocked with rainbow trout from 8-14 inches at the end of June.

WICKIUP RESERVOIR: kokanee, brown trout

Wickiup Reservoir anglers are reporting the kokanee angling is slow. Some nice browns have also been showing up in the creel.

VIEWING

 

On July 3, Keith Kohl, ODFW district wildlife biologist, called to report that recent fires on the lower six miles of the Deschutes River have limited camping opportunities.

Prineville Wildlife Biologist Brian Ferry suggests visitors to Central Oregon visit Rimrock Springs Wildlife Management Area, a wildlife oasis. Located along highway 26 between Prineville and Madras, the area has been developed to provide habitat for waterfowl, upland game birds, songbirds and raptors—look for golden eagles, red-tailed hawks and great horned owls. The rich insect life attracts bats, swallows and nighthawks.

There is a has a interpretive trail (with an ADA-approved portion) and two blinds where the public can view a variety of waterfowl, upland game birds, raptors, shorebirds and large and small mammals—often including mule deer, pronghorn (antelope), beaver, muskrat, jackrabbits, cottontail rabbits, round squirrels and chipmunks.

Plan to stay an hour or two and it’s a good idea to apply your insect repellent. A lot of those birds are there for the bugs!

More information.

http://www.fs.fed.us/r6/centraloregon/wildlife/sites/29-rimrocksprings.shtml

Bend

Visit the High Desert Museum in Bend to learn about the Museum's more than 100 wildlife critters—porcupines, golden eagles, owls, bats, lizards, snakes and spiders. There are daily shows given by wildlife experts. Here’s a great one to catch:

11:00 a.m. Desert Dwellers: Swooping raptors and mammals and reptiles up close!

For more information, visit the High Desert Museum Web site. http://www.highdesertmuseum.org/

Prineville Area

The Prineville Reservoir Wildlife Management area offers opportunities to see a wide variety of waterfowl, some shorebirds and raptors including bald and golden eagles and osprey.

The Dalles

California bighorn sheep can be viewed almost year round on the lower 34 miles of the Deschutes River between Beavertail and Harris Canyon.

A lone male Rocky Mountain goat that took up residence along I-84 east of The Dalles is still in the area. It can generally be spotted south of the freeway between mile posts 90 and 93. “It’s probably just on a walk-about,” said the local biologist.

Rocky Mountain goats are native only to the rugged mountains of western North America. The presence of mountain goats in Oregon prior to European settlement is supported by archeological evidence in Hells Canyon. Rocky Mountain goats were apparently extirpated from Oregon prior to European settlement. Since that time ODFW staff has reintroduced the species into the Wallowa and Elkhorn Mountains where herds have been successfully established. It is estimated there are about 700 Rocky Mountain goats in Oregon?200 in the Elkhorn Mountains and 500 in Wallowa County, primarily in the Wallowa Mountains.

To see a photo and learn more.

http://www.enature.com/fieldguides/detail.asp?recnum=MA0041

SOUTHEAST ZONE

Keep in mind that warmer water temperatures will provide more challenges when trying to catch trout, bass and other warmwater species. Aquatic vegetation growth at some lakes may make bank angling more challenging.

FISHING

Contact Klamath Watershed Office (541) 883-5732, the Hines Office (541) 573-6553, or the La Grande Office (541) 963-2138 for more information on fishing opportunities. See website below for a stocking schedule for the Klamath-Malheur watersheds http://www.dfw.state.or.us/ODFWhtml/InfoCntrFish/trout_stocking_sched/2007/southeast/Klamath Malhuer.html.

ANA RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, hybrid bass

The reservoir was stocked with legal rainbow trout. Most angling occurs from the bank using bait. Angling for hybrid bass has been slow. The reservoir is full. 

ANA RIVER: rainbow trout

Angling for rainbow trout has been good. 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 allowed and productive.

BEULAH RESERVOIR: redband trout, whitefish, bull trout

The reservoir was 46 percent full on July 1, and inflow was 36 cfs. Fishing is slow to fair.

BIG ROCK RESERVOIR: trout

The reservoir has dried completely in recent years, angling for last years rainbow trout is good. The reservoir is at half-full and declining.

BLITZEN RIVER: trout

Fair angling for redband trout. Flow fluctuated between approximately 62 and 88 cfs from June 25-July 2. Flow was 68 cfs July 2.

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

The reservoir was 46 percent full on July 1. Angling for warmwater fish is fair.

BURNS POND: trout, bass

The pond was stocked with rainbow trout in early June. Fair angling for 8 to 12 inch rainbow trout using spoons or spinners. Fair to good angling with worms or power bait. No angling report for bass.

BURNT RIVER: trout

Legal trout were re-stocked in May in the South Fork Burnt River. As temperatures warm, fish may not bite well.

CAMPBELL/DEADHORSE: Access to these lakes is open and fishing has been good.

CHICKAHOMINY RESERVOIR: trout

Angling is fair for 12 to 18 inch rainbow trout, with a few larger fish reported. Bait anglers have had fair to good success from the fishing access points. Fly anglers and trollers have also had fair to good success. There is good shoreline access near the campground or at the fishing access points.

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 MEADOWS LAKE: rainbow trout

Access is open, fishing has been fair. Cottonwood has been stocked with legal and trophy sized trout.

COTTONWOOD RESERVOIR: redband trout

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 (spoons and deceiver flies) from a boat. Cottonwood Reservoir is not stocked and the fish you catch are native redband trout produced in Cottonwood Creek.

DELINTMENT LAKE: trout

The lake was stocked with rainbow trout in May. Fair angling for 8-14 inch rainbow trout. Bait anglers have had the best success recently. Aquatic vegetation growth may make bank angling more challenging as the weather warms. The lake does have an accessible fishing platform, and the area around the platform tends to stay free of aquatic vegetation.

DEEP CREEK: redband trout

Angling is fair for redband trout.

DOG LAKE: bass

Fishing for bass has been slow, but numerous large bass have been caught recently out of Dog to make it worth the effort.

DUNCAN RESERVOIR: rainbow trout

Angling for rainbow trout has been good.

EAGLE CREEK and TRIBUTARIES: trout

Should be good for trout. Was re-stocked first week in July.

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

The lake was stocked with rainbow trout two weeks ago. The loop road is open around the entire mountain. Angling should be fair to good for 8 to 14 inch brook trout and rainbow trout. Fly anglers usually have the best success using small nymphs. Spinners and bait should also work well.

FISH LAKE (Eagle Caps): rainbow trout

Was stocked with legal rainbow trout in early June.

FOURMILE LAKE: Access is blocked by snow.

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

Angling for crappie has slowed down. Most crappie are in the 8-10 inch range but larger crappie are available. Yellow perch angling has been good. Lake levels are high therefore boats can be launched. Angling for brown bullhead and largemouth bass is fair. For more information on warmwater fishing in Gerber Reservoir and other Warmwater fisheries visit your local ODFW offices for warmwater fishing pamphlets.

HAINES POND: rainbow trout

Fish early for best results.

HIGGINS RESERVOIR: trout

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: trout

The abundance of trout has been reduced by the illegal introduction of tui chub, larger trout are still available. Holbrook was stocked with legal trout.

HIGHWAY 203 POND: rainbow trout, bluegill

Highway 203 Pond was stocked with legal and trophy rainbows. Fishing has been good for trout. Bluegill are plentiful but small. Some bass are available as well, but are small.

JUNIPER LAKE: No angling report as of July 3.

UPPER KLAMATH AND AGENCY LAKE: redband trout

Angling for wild redband trout has been fair. Redband trout are beginning to move into the many cold water spring areas around the lake and the mouths of the Williamson and Wood River. A few fish can still be caught at Eagle Ridge, Ball bay and other areas but is beginning to slow. Flyfishing is more productive in the Lake this month because redband trout have become more concentrated. Catch rates are typically one fish per ten hours of fishing.

KLAMATH RIVER: redband trout

Expect to see blizzard hatches of damselflies, caddisflies and mayflies in the afternoon or try imitations that mimic minnows (flies, spinners, spoons, lures). Angling below JC Boyle Powerhouse is fair due to flow fluctuations. River flows below the Powerhouse will be 1500-2000 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 spinners. 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 spinners and flies are the most effective method for catching rainbow- redband trout in this section. Salmonflies and golden stoneflies are emerging in good numbers in the two aforementioned sections. Anglers can call 1-800-547-1501 for river flow information or visit the following website http://waterdata.usgs.gov/or/nwis/current?type=flow.

KRUMBO RESERVOIR: rainbow trout

Fair to good angling for 12 to 18 inch rainbow trout. There is good bank access near the boat ramp and on the southwest shoreline. No reports on what gear has been most effective.

LAKE OF THE WOODS: largemouth bass, crappie, yellow perch

Boats can be launched at the lodge. Angling for largemouth bass, crappie, smallmouth bass, kokanee and brown trout is slow. Angling for yellow perch is good but most yellow perch are small (< 6”). Angling for brown bullhead can be excellent with a worm near the bottom of the lake. Contact Lake of the Woods Lodge at (1-866-201-4194) for recent angling update or visit their website at www.lakeofthewoodsresort.com. Lake of the Woods has been stocked with legal and trophy rainbow trout last week and will be stocked this week so angling for rainbow trout should be very good. The best method to catch rainbow trout is to troll using spinners or fishing bait from a boat. Most rainbow trout are in the middle of the lake.

LINK RIVER: redband trout

Angling is slow as many redband trout have moved through Link River. Most anglers use 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: trout

Access is open and fishing is slow due to the illegal introduction of minnows into the lake. Little Heart Lake was stocked with legal size trout.

LOFTON RESERVOIR: trout

Expect angling to be slow due to the illegal introduction of tui chub. Larger fish are still available in the lake. Lofton Reservoir was stocked with legal and trophy rainbow trout.

LONG CREEK RESERVOIR: trout

Fishing is fair for small trout. As water warms, fish may not bite as well. Fish early for best results.

LOST RIVER: largemouth bass

Angling has been slow 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.

LOWER WILLIAMSON RIVER: redband trout

Angling is good and flows are low enough for successful angling. Flyfishing from a drift boat is the most popular method to catch large redband trout. Anglers can also troll spoons and lures below the Modoc Point bridge. A few brown trout are available but difficult to catch

LUCKY RESERVOIR: trout

The road into Lucky has been improved. Fishing has been fair; the reservoir was stocked with legal sized rainbow trout.

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

Discharge from Warm Springs Reservoir was approximately 553 cfs on July 1. No angling report as of July 3.

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

Discharge from Warm Springs Reservoir was approximately 53 cfs, and discharge from Beulah Reservoir was approximately 293cfs July 1. Angling is slow to fair.

MALHEUR RESERVOIR: trout

Water level is dropping, but the ramp is still usable. Trout angling is good. Good numbers of trout from 10 to 14 inches are being caught. The reservoir was stocked with both fingerling and legal sized trout.

MALHEUR RIVER, NORTH FORK: bull trout

Access to the North Fork remains limited by snow. Trout angling is slow. Remember to release bull trout.

MALHEUR RIVER, MIDDLE FORK: trout, bull trout

Access to the Middle Fork remains limited by snow. Trout angling is slow. Remember to release bull trout.

MALONE RESERVIOR (LOST RIVER): bullhead, sunfish, largemouth bass

Angling for yellow, brown and black bullhead is excellent. Angling for sunfish and largemouth bass is slow.

MANN LAKE: trout

No recent angling report, but angling should be slow for cutthroat trout. Fly anglers have had the best success using leech imitations or small nymphs.

MILLER LAKE: brown trout, rainbow trout, kokanee

Angling is fair for brown trout. Angling with downriggers is the most effective method. Brown trout are feeding on kokanee and stocked rainbow trout.

MOON RESERVOIR: bass, trout

Fair angling for bass. Slow to fair angling for rainbow trout. No report on which gear is most successful. Shoreline access is good near the dam, but difficult along much of the reservoir. Boat anglers have had the best success.

MURRAY RESERVOIR: trout

Was restocked end of May with an additional 2000 legal rainbow trout. Fishing should be good, but bite will decrease as water warms.

NORTH MALHEUR BLM STOCK PONDS: rainbow trout

No angling report from the ponds as of July 3. Squaw Creek and Littlefield reservoirs were stocked with rainbow trout fingerling the last week of May.

NORTH POWDER PONDS 1 & 2: trout

As temperatures warm, fishing slows. Fish early for best results.

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

The reservoir was 55 percent full July 1. All boat ramps are in the water. Good numbers of 8 to 10 black crappies are being caught in the middle third of the reservoir (Elbow to Airport). Bass fishing is improving.

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

Flows below the dam averaged about 258 cfs on July 1. Angling for rainbow trout and brown trout is fair. The river was stocked with rainbow trout fingerling from the gingerbread house downstream to the concrete bridge the last week of May.

OWYHEE RIVER (Upper): smallmouth bass and channel catfish

Discharge at the Rome gauge averaged approximately 114 cfs on July 1. Angling for smallmouth and channel catfish is improving.

PAIUTE RESERVOIR: rainbow trout and cutthroat trout

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: trout, perch

Was restocked with an additional 5000 legal trout last week in June. Fishing has been fair for trout and perch. Trout are running about 12 inches. Perch are 9-11 inches. Water level is at 47 percent.

PILCHER RESERVOIR: trout

Campground is open. Fishing is Fair. Water level is at 70 percent.

PINE CREEK: trout

Was stocked in late June with legal rainbow trout.

POLE CREEK RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout

The reservoir is slowly dropping. Angling is fair.

POWDER RIVER: trout

Was re-stocked below Mason Dam with 1000 legal rainbows last week in June.

SEVENMILE CREEK: brook trout

Angling should be good for small brook tout up to 14”. Brown trout fishing should be good but brown trout occur on private property so permission is needed to access.

SHERLOCK GULCH RESERVOIR: trout

Fishing has been fair for legal sized trout. The reservoir is near full and turbid.

SID LUCE RESERVOIR:

Access to the reservoir is difficult and fishing has been fair.

SNAKE RIVER: channel catfish, flathead catfish, smallmouth bass

Flow was 6,608 cfs near Nyssa and approximately 8,986 cfs near Weiser on July 1. Angling for catfish is good and angling for smallmouth bass is fair.

SOUTH MALHEUR BLM STOCK PONDS: trout

No angling report from the ponds as of July 3. All of the ponds with good water were stocked with fingerling trout the last week of May.

SPAULDING RESERVOIR: trout

Fishing has been good for legal sized trout. The reservoir is half-full and will decline through the summer.

SPRAGUE RIVER: redband trout

Angling is good for redband trout in the mainstem Sprague. Look for fish feeding on black drake mayflies. Angling is slow for brown bullhead and largemouth bass. A few large brown trout and redband trout are available. Angling is good for redband trout, brook trout and brown trout in the North and South Forks of the Sprague. Large brown trout can be found in the North Fork Sprague above and below the 3411 road crossing. Bull trout can be encountered in the North and South Fork of the Sprague so know your fish species.

SUNSTONE RESERVOIR: rainbow trout

Angling with bait or flies near the dam is good for rainbow trout. The reservoir will most likely go dry this summer.

SYCAN RIVER: redband trout, brook trout

Angling is fair for redband and brook trout above Sycan Marsh and good for 8-12” redband trout below the Sycan Marsh. Large brown trout are available in the Sycan below the marsh but are difficult to locate.

THOMPSON RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, bass

Access to both boat ramps is open. Angling for trophy rainbow trout is improving. The best location to fish for bass is near the shore on both sides near the dam. Also, look for largemouth bass on their nest. This is the best time to catch trophy pre-spawn largemouth bass. Most trophy bass are feeding on tui chub or stocked rainbow trout. Angling for rainbow trout is best near the dam and along the rocky northeast bank. Angling for stocked rainbow trout will be good this week.

TOPSY RESERVOIR: largemouth bass

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

Due to drought conditions, the daily trout bag limit has been raised to 15 with no possession limit. Reservoir level has dropped to 38 percent.

UNITY RESERVOIR: trout, bass

Reservoir is dropping and is at 52 percent. Crappie fishing has been good, even from shore.

UPPER WILLIAMSON RIVER: redband trout, brook trout

Expect black drake mayflies to finally become active and create good angling for redband trout and brook trout. Redband trout are available from six to over twenty inches with the average fish twelve inches. Brook trout are more abundant as you progress upstream and ODFW encourages unlimited harvest of brook trout.

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

The reservoir was 37 percent full and the inflow at the Drewsey gauge averaged 13 cfs on July 1. Angling is fair for yellow perch, smallmouth bass, and rainbow trout. There have been a few reports of anglers catching crappie.

WARNER LAKES (Hart, Crump, Flagstaff, etc.): crappie

Angling for crappie is still slow and should improve later this year.

WILLOW VALLEY RESERVOIR: largemouth bass, crappie

Angling for largemouth bass has been good. Angling for largemouth bass should be very good in coming months. Crappie angling has been fair. Look for crappie and bass around the many wood and habitat structures in the reservoir. 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. Recent sampling has shown largemouth bass and bluegill to be abundant in the reservoir. Most bluegill are small. Black crappie are common and in the 8-10” range. The yellow perch population has decreased substantially and not worth angling for.

WOOD RIVER AND TRIBUTARIES: redband trout

Angling is slow for redband trout and fair for brown trout. Most angling is done from a drift boat as public access is limited. Look for hatches or cast salmonfly patterns to undercut banks.

WOLF CREEK RESERVOIR:

Water level is at 29 percent. Fishing is poor.

YELLOWJACKET LAKE: rainbow trout

Fair angling for 10 to 14 inch rainbow trout. Bank access is good near the boat ramp and along the west shore. For those who can hike a short distance, bank access is good along the dam and the east shore. Aquatic vegetation growth may make bank angling more challenging as the weather warms.

VIEWING

Burns Area

Some species of note in the basin are bald eagles, golden eagles, American white pelicans, greater sandhill cranes, white-faced ibis and long-billed curlews.

Klamath Falls Area

There are many species of interest in the Klamath Basin including breeding ducks, geese and other water birds. They can usually be seen at National Wildlife Refuges and State Wildlife Areas. Many ducks are in the middle of nesting season. Duck broods are beginning to appear at many of the water bodies in the Klamath Basin. Duck species include mallard, gadwall, cinnamon teal, wood duck, redhead, canvasback and scaup.

Red-necked grebes are only found in a few locations in Oregon including Pelican Bay at Rocky Point on Upper Klamath Lake where they breed annually. Viewing from a boat or canoe is recommended as the red-necked grebes are usually found along emergent vegetation in Pelican Bay. To see a photo and hear its call, visit the What Bird Web site. http://identify.whatbird.com/obj/275/overview/Red-necked_Grebe.aspx

White-faced ibis, which have only been nesting in the Klamath Basin since the early 1980s, can be viewed foraging in flooded pastures south of Klamath Falls. IBIS nest in emergent vegetation in marshes at Lower Klamath National Wildlife Refuge.

Moore Park, within Klamath Falls, is a great spot to view the bald eagle pair which nest up on the ridge above the park. In downtown Klamath Falls, the Link River Nature Trail offers a great opportunity to view many water birds and passerine species as well. Many mammals including deer, beaver, muskrat, mink, raccoon, squirrels and marmots can also be seen.

Klamath Wildlife Area

See Great Basin Canada Geese with broods, Sandhill cranes with colts, ducks and ducklings. There are also a lot of shorebirds: avocet, black neck stilt and dowitchers. Western pond turtles—one of our two native turtle species—can be seen basking in or near ponds. To see a photo and learn more, visit www.herpetologynorthwest.org/nwherps/turtles/western-pond-turtle.html

 

The Wildlife Area is located four miles south of Klamath Falls. Please note, dogs are allowed in dog training area only (near boat ramp) until August first. Discharge of firearms is prohibited outside of hunting seasons. Discharge of handguns and rifles prohibited without permit. For directions and more information, visit the ODFW Web site. www.dfw.state.or.us/wildlifearea/klamath_wa.htm

Klamath Marsh National Wildlife Refuge

Drive the Silver Lake Road for good viewing and photo opportunities for a variety of marsh birds. The natural marsh provides important nesting, feeding and resting habitat for waterfowl, while the surrounding meadowlands are attractive nesting and feeding areas for sandhill crane, yellow rail, and various shorebirds and raptors. For more information. http://www.fws.gov/klamathbasinrefuges/klamathmarsh/klamathmarsh.html

Summer Lake Wildlife Area

Note that habitat enhancement and restoration activities are underway in Bullgate Refuge, Link Marsh and East Link Units. These areas were controlled burning in spring and dried out to mimic drought conditions that historically restored productivity to semi-permanent wetlands. Bullgate Refuge Unit will be reflooded in early fall, while Link Marsh will remain dry until fall 2008. A small amount of water will be released into East Link Unit will be partially flooded to accommodate fall migrants in the next several weeks.

Viewers will find these traditionally flooded areas dry and with very little bird activity. However, water birds have shifted their use to other portions of the wildlife areas that remain flooded. The nearby Bypass Unit is full and receiving good waterbird use at this time.

What’s new?

Breeding species are in full swing attending nests and newly hatched young. Fall migration is beginning. Unsuccessful or failed breeders are returning from northerly breeding locales. Shorebirds will be staging for migration and southern migrants will be appearing. Hummingbirds are increasing in number at ODFW headquarters complex feedersnblack-chinned, calliopes and rufous were observed last week.

What’s unusual?

EURASIAN COLLARED doves remain at the headquarters complex and calling is very common during the morning and evening hours.

Birdwatching

All wildlife are being born and reared at this time of year, visitors are urged to keep pets in close control. It is unlawful to allow dogs to run at large during this time of the year. Nests are sometimes situated along roads and trails and can be encountered easily. If nests or young are found, please move away from the vicinity immediately to avoid undue disturbance.

Waterfowl species, primarily ducks, remain very apparent and are widely scattered across the Area. Drakes are losing their brilliant nuptial plumage now and beginning to molt. Nesting for all species continues and brood rearing is well underway. Duck broods are being observed, especially during early morning and evening hours, close to the protective cover of emergent vegetation. Newly hatched gadwall broods are beginning to appear now and are very obvious in open ponds and canals.

Canada geese remain very secretive as they are rearing broods. Broods continue to be observed, but most are in remote areas where disturbance is minimal. Adults are completing their molt and family groups will be very difficult to view while in this vulnerable condition since they seek security of larger open water areas and protective vegetation. Most will become flighted in the next week or two once flight feathers have regrown and they will disperse across the Wildlife Area.

Sandhill crane brood rearing is underway and the several observations of colts (crane chicks) have occurred recently.  They too are very secretive and hard to observe.

SHOREBIRDS are completing their breeding season activities. Nesting (there are nine species regularly on the Wildlife Area) is occurring for nearly all species now and chicks of many species have been observed. Many KILLDEER nests have been located; viewers are urged to park and walk with caution to avoid undue disturbance or nest destruction. Early nesting species such as long-billed curlew and western willet are grouping up in preparation for departure to wintering areas. Other species are forming post-breeding season assemblages to forage in wildlife area wetlands as they prepare for fall migration. Now is a good time to encounter rare or unusual species passing through the area.

Waders and other waterbirds are increasing in number and species. American white pelicans, great egrets, gulls (primarily ring-billed) and terns are numerous now taking advantages of forage fish found in canals and ponds.  Post breeding season dispersal is occurring and many waterbirds can be found foraging in semi-permanent and seasonal wetlands. Small flocks of white-faced ibis were observed over the past week.

 

Resident raptors remain scattered throughout the Wildlife Area as well as on private lands along Highway 31. Northern harriers are especially numerous over marsh and hay meadows. Bald eagles are commonly seen along the Ana River near the River Ranch. Prairie falcons and golden eagles are sometimes seen during this time of the year, and peregrine falcons make occasional appearances. The osprey pair at Ana Reservoir is occupying the nest structure and the adults are busy rearing young. They are frequently observed along Ana River near the River Ranch.

Great-horned owl chicks have fledged and can be found near nest sites, still being fed by the adults. 

Ring-necked pheasant and California quail are hatching and brood observations have been numerous. Watch carefully along road shoulder in upland areas to spot broods closely attend by hens, and in the case of quail, both parents.

Passerine species remain fairly common around the Headquarters Complex, Summer Lake Rest Area, homestead sites and shelter break plantings at the north end of the Area where they are attracted to tree and shrub cover. Nesting is well underway for all species and fledglings are being observed regularly.

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.  Tremendous numbers of bright blue damsel flies have emerged adding considerable variety to the various shades of brilliant green vegetation. Biting insects have emerged and are increasing in number.

Facilities and Access

The Wildlife Viewing Loop is open and will remain so until fall. Other major dike roads (Bullgate, Windbreak and Work Road) are closed to motor vehicle travel from March 15 through August 15 to reduce disturbance breeding, brood rearing and molting waterbirds. 

Viewers are urged to use care when driving roads since several species of birds may nest along edges. Secondary and minor dikes will remain closed to motor vehicle traffic and cross country travel by motor vehicles and ATVs 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.

Habitat

Wetland habitats remain in good condition; all emergent marsh plants are showing considerable growth and flowering activity.

Westside areas, especially along Dutchy and Rest Lakes, Windbreak Dike and Work Road Ponds remain well watered and are receiving considerable waterbird use at this time. Natural food sources of seeds, tubers and plant parts remain very abundant and available in nearly all wetland areas.  Regrowth of the native plants is very extensive and very apparent throughout the Area. Invertebrate populations are high due to the warmer water temperatures.

Upland sites are in excellent condition due to lush green-up of grasses and forb emergence and growth. Trees and shrubs have blossomed and are producing fruits or seeds now. 

For additional information on viewing opportunities, please contact the Summer Lake Wildlife Area at (541) 943-3152 or martin.j.stlouis@state.or.us

NORTHEAST ZONE

FISHING

Look for rainbow trout in deeper water as water temperatures warm up. Kokanee at Wallow Lake can be found trolling at 35 to 50 feet deep. Lures or worm and bobber can be effective from the bank.

CUTSFORTH POND: trout

The pond was stocked in May and June with legal-sized and trophy-sized trout. Fishing success is being affected by warm water temperatures.

HONEYMOON AND TEPEE PONDS: trout

These small quarry ponds are located on the WallowanWhitman National Forest, north of Enterprise and accessed via the 46 Road. They have been stocked with legal size rainbow trout.

JOHN DAY RIVER: bass

Smallmouth bass angling was good. Water will clear with the return of dry weather. Streamflow at the time this report was filed measured 881 cfs at Service Creek which is good level for angling, although it is rising. Stream flow levels are available from the Service Creek gauging station at http://waterdata.usgs.gov/or/nwis/uv?14046500.

JUBILEE LAKE: trout

Fishing is good for 8 to 12 inch rainbow trout. Boat anglers have done the best catching the trophy-sized fish on the north side of the lake.

KINNEY LAKE: trout

The Lake is open and has been well stocked. Trout angling is good. Rainbow trout to several pounds, most in the 8-12" range, conditions are good and should remain so, bank angling only, use lures or bait and bobber.

LADD POND: Fishing has been poor. Pond was stocked several times this spring.

LONG CREEK POND, SEVENTH STREET POND, ANSON WRIGHT POND, MORROW COUNTY OHV PARK PONDS, MCHALEY POND AND BRANDON’S POND: Have all been stocked with legal sized rainbow trout.

MAGONE LAKE: trout

Angling success for brook and rainbow trout is fair. The most successful anglers are fishing relatively deep.

MCKAY RESERVOIR: crappie, perch

The reservoir is approximately 70% full and being drawn down. Fishing for crappie and perch has improved. The best angling has been in the evenings after sunset.

MCNARY, HAT ROCK AND TATONE PONDS: trout

These ponds were stocked with legal-sized trout March through June. Angling success will decline as water temperatures increase.

PENLAND LAKE: trout

Fishing is good for rainbow trout 10-13 inches with an occasional fish in the 13-18 inch range. The bite will slow down as water temperatures warm.

ROULET POND: Pond was stocked several times this spring. No report as of July 3, 2007 on current success.

SALT CREEK AND MCGRAW PONDS: trout

Small forest setting ponds southeast of Joseph, off the 39 Road, stocked with legal rainbow trout up to 12 inches, use lures or bait and bobber, great places to get away on hot days.

WALLOWA WILDLIFE AREA POND:  trout

Angling is fair to good. The pond has been stocked with legal size rainbow trout.

UMATILLA FOREST PONDS: trout

All ponds north of Ukiah and along the summit road have been stocked and fishing is fair. However, warm water temperatures will slow down the bite. The highest elevation ponds will be the best bet through July. For more information contact the Pendleton ODFW office at 541-276-2344.

UMATILLA RIVER: trout

The spring Chinook season is closed. Open for warm water game fish. Trout angling is open above the Reservation boundary but is restricted to artificial flies and lures. All fish must be safely released.

WALLOWA LAKE: trout, kokanee

Fair angling for kokanee to 15" and good for stocked rainbow trout to several pounds, lake conditions are good, windy days can be a challenge, try the north end for kokanee and the south end for rainbow, boat angling is best but the south east shore can be productive for rainbow and kokanee. Most fish are caught with troll gear, flashers followed up with a wedding ring and maggots, corn, or worms. Kokanee anglers are having their best success trolling at 35 to 50 feet deep. Lures or worm and bobber can be effective from the bank.

WALLOWA AND IMNAHA RIVERS: trout

Flows are receding and fishing conditions are good. Expect fair to good angling for trout.

WALLOWA VALLEY PONDS (Marr, Victor and Wallowa Wildlife ponds): trout

These ponds have been stocked with legal size trout. Marr Pond has been stocked with trophy trout as well. Angling is fair to good.

WESTON POND: trout

Fishing will be poor with weeds and warm water limiting trout activity.

WILLOW CREEK: trout

This stream bas been stocked with legal-sized rainbow trout through the towns of Heppner, Lexington and Ione. Low water is limiting trout activity to early morning hours only.

WILLOW CREEK RESERVOIR: bass, catfish

The reservoir will be stocked with fingerling rainbow trout this week. Bass and catfish angling is good.

VIEWING

In the Grande Ronde Valley, spring’s birds are on the wing and June’s calves are afoot. Immature bald eagles can be seen from the boat ramp at Pilcher Reservoir, about 20 miles south of La Grande. Look for immature osprey perched on nests on the occasional power pole through the Valley. See elk calves early in the morning or in the evening along the Upper Grande Ronde River, possibly in Vey Meadows.

Here are some other viewing opportunities.

Baker County

Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep can be seen at Brownlee Dam. Look on the Oregon side just below the dam. Mule deer and Rocky Mountain elk have recently had their fawns and calves. Try looking for them in the early morning and evenings in high elevation meadows on the Wallowa Whitman National Forest.

Excellent birding can be found throughout Baker County. Try birdwatching in different habitat to find a variety of different species. For greatest species diversity try birding at the Powder River Recreation Area along Hwy 7 downstream from the dam on Phillips Reservoir. An ADA accessible path leads along the river. A variety of birds can be seen including hummingbirds, dippers, woodpeckers, warblers and raptors. Directions to Powder River Recreation Area.

http://www.fs.fed.us/r6/w-w/recreation/trails-brd/TR-Powder-River-Rec.shtml

Wallowa Whitman National Forest

Wallowa Whitman National Forest and surrounding Bureau of Land Management lands offer the best viewing opportunity.

For information.

http://www.fs.fed.us/r6/w-w/

Union County:

La Grande

Visit ODFW’s Ladd Marsh Wildlife Area, a popular bird and wildlife viewing area located south of La Grande off of I-84. Immature sandhill cranes (colts) are starting to walk around the Wildlife area and make for fun watching.

Young shorebirds and waterfowl can be seen along Peach Road adjacent to the driving route along the Wildlife Area.

For information about the Wildlife Area. http://www.dfw.state.or.us/wildlifearea/ladd_marsh_wildlife.htm

Bird, mammal, plant, reptiles and amphibians checklists for the area are provided by the Friends of Ladd Marsh. http://www.eou.edu/~kantell/friends%20of%20ladd%20marsh/laddmarsh.htm

SNAKE RIVER ZONE

FISHING

BROWNLEE RESERVOIR: Crappie fishing is tough but some fish are being caught in 20 feet of water in the evenings and at night. The bite is very soft, use light tackle. Bass are still biting, but has slowed some. Perch are in schools and are spotty, but some are being caught on worms. Catfish are the best right now. Use worms or cutbaint in shallow water. The reservoir is slowly dropping. 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?k=brownlee

OXBOW RESERVOIR: Crappie, bass, and perch angling is fair. Bass under 12 and over 16 can now be kept.

HELLS CANYON RESERVOIR: Crappie, bass and perch fishing is fair. Some trout are being caught as well. Catfish angling is picking up.

SNAKE RIVER (Below Hells Canyon Dam): Smallmouth bass fishing should be good.

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

Flow was 6,608 cfs near Nyssa and approximately 8,986 cfs near Weiser on July 1. Angling for catfish is fair to good and angling for smallmouth bass is fair.

VIEWING

Hells Canyon National Recreation Area

Summer - June, July, and August

The patient and lucky observer may see river otter in rivers or larger creeks. The small canyon wren flits between rocks in bunchgrass areas, and the powerful badger burrows for smaller rodents. In the early evening, find a comfortable sitting rock overlooking the rivers and listen for the winnowing of the common snipe and the whizzing boom of the common nighthawk. You may also see the butterfly-like flight of the tiny western pipistrelle bat in search of mosquitoes and no-see-ums.

Be on the lookout for the western rattlesnake, a reptile common to the Recreation Area, particularly in lower elevations. The rattlesnake is beneficial to the wildlife ecosystem; we encourage you to merely watch it and all other species of nongame wildlife. At lower elevations, the visitor may see the unusual rubber boa snake, which appears to have no head.

Numerous elk, many with young calves, may be seen on the benches above the Imnaha and Snake Rivers. In the steep cliff areas around Dry Diggins Lookout in Idaho, one might also see mountain goats.

If your summer visit takes you high into the timbered areas, you may see or hear the pileated woodpecker, the largest North American woodpecker. The diligent observer may find tracks or even see the pine marten, a small mammal similar to a mink.

A birders checklist is available, http://www.idahopower.com/pdfs/riversrec/hcBirdCheckList.pdf

COLUMBIA RIVER ZONE

SALMON, STEELHEAD, AND SHAD:

COLUMBIA RIVER MAINSTEM, Tongue Point to Bonneville Dam: Effective July 1 through July 31, 2007 this section of the Columbia River is closed to the retention of adult Chinook but is open for adipose fin-clipped summer steelhead and adipose fin-clipped Chinook jacks (24 inches or less).

COLUMBIA RIVER MAINSTEM, Bonneville Dam to Priest Rapids Dam: Effective July 3 through July 31, 2007 this section of the Columbia River is closed to the retention of adult Chinook but is open for adipose fin-clipped summer steelhead and adipose fin-clipped Chinook jacks (24 inches).

The adult summer Chinook season has come to a close on the Columbia River for 2007. Bank anglers are catching steelhead on spinners and spin-n-glos. Shad angling effort and catch rates are beginning to decline.

Gorge Bank:

Weekly checking showed two summer Chinook kept for 18 salmonid anglers; and 183 shad kept for 73 shad anglers.

Gorge Boats:

Weekend checking showed seven summer Chinook and four adipose fin-clipped summer steelhead kept, plus one unclipped steelhead released for 10 salmonid boats; and 53 shad kept for two shad boats (complete trips).

Troutdale Boats:

Weekend checking showed no catch reported for four salmonid boats.

Portland to Clatskanie Bank:

Weekend checking showed four summer Chinook, and seven adipose fin-clipped summer steelhead kept, plus two unclipped summer steelhead released for 114 salmonid anglers.

Portland to Longview Boats:

Weekly checking showed three summer Chinook, and two adipose fin-clipped summer steelhead kept for 26 salmonid boats (complete trips).

Estuary Bank:

Weekend checking showed two summer Chinook and five adipose fin-clipped summer steelhead kept, plus three unclipped steelhead released for 42 bank rods.

Estuary Boats:

Weekend checking showed seven adipose fin-clipped summer steelhead kept, plus two unclipped summer steelhead released for eight boats.

Bonneville Pool Boat and Bank:

Weekly checking showed one summer Chinook kept, plus one unclipped summer steelhead released for 41 bank anglers; and no catch reported for two boats.

The Dalles Pool Boat and Bank:

No report as of July 3, 2007

John Day Pool Boat and Bank:

No report as of July 3, 2007.

STURGEON:

BUOY 10 UPSTREAM TO WAUNA POWERLINES (including Youngs Bay and all adjacent Washington tributaries):

This section of the Columbia is currently open to the retention of sturgeon seven days per week with a daily limit of one sturgeon between 45-60 inches through Wednesday, July 4. The retention of green sturgeon is prohibited. Effective July 5 through December 31, 2007 this section of the Columbia River will be closed to the retention of sturgeon. Catch and release will be allowed during the retention closure.

WAUNA POWERLINES UPSTREAM TO MARKER 85 (including all adjacent Washington tributaries and the Willamette River downstream of Willamette Falls including the Multnomah Channel):

This section of the Columbia River is currently open to the retention of sturgeon on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays with a daily bag limit of one sturgeon between 42-60 inches in length and an annual limit of five fish effective through July 31. Catch and release of sturgeon is allowed on non-retention days. In the spawning sanctuary between Marker 85 upstream to Bonneville Dam all sturgeon angling is prohibited through Tuesday, July 31. The retention of green sturgeon is prohibited.

BONNEVILLE DAM UPSTREAM TO THE DALLES DAM:

The retention of sturgeon is currently allowed in the Bonneville Pool seven days per week. The daily limit is one sturgeon between 42 and 60 inches and the annual limit is five fish.

THE DALLES DAM UPSTREAM TO MCNARY DAM:

The retention of sturgeon in The Dalles and John Day pools is currently closed through the end of the year. Catch guidelines were reached in The Dalles Pool on March 28, 2007 and in the John Day Pool on June 10, 2007. Catch and release angling is allowed until the end of the year except: all sturgeon angling is prohibited during May 1-July 31 in The Dalles Pool from the grain silo near Rufus upstream to John Day Dam and in the John Day Pool from the Highway 395/Highway 82 Bridge upstream to McNary Dam.

Catch rates for sturgeon declined slightly in the Estuary this past weekend, but improved throughout the rest of the lower Columbia River. The best catch rates continue to be in the Estuary where boat anglers averaged 1.13 legal white sturgeon caught per boat. In the Portland to Longview area boat anglers averaged 0.23 legal white sturgeon caught per boat, while boat anglers in Troutdale averaged 0.15 legal white sturgeon caught per boat. In the Gorge below Marker 85 boat anglers averaged 0.06 legal white sturgeon caught per boat. Bank anglers in the Portland area averaged 0.06 legal white sturgeon caught per bank rod.

Gorge Boats:

Weekend checking showed one legal white sturgeon kept, plus 238 sublegal and seven oversize sturgeon released for 18 boats (complete trips).

Troutdale Boats:

Weekend checking showed two legal white sturgeon kept, plus 40 sublegal and two oversize sturgeon released for 13 boats (complete trips).

Portland to Longview Bank:

Weekend checking showed one legal white sturgeon kept, plus nine sublegal sturgeon released for 16 sturgeon anglers.

Portland to Longview Boats:

Weekend checking showed two legal white sturgeon kept, plus one legal, 79 sublegal and two oversize sturgeon released for 13 boats (complete trips).

Estuary Boats:

Weekend checking showed 347 legal white sturgeon kept, plus 24 legal, 42 oversize, and 986 sublegal sturgeon released for 329 boats. Charter boat anglers average 0.64 legal sturgeon per rod.

Estuary Bank:

Weekly checking showed no catch reported for 14 bank rods.

Bonneville Pool: Weekly checking showed two legal white sturgeon kept, plus one legal and 60 sublegal sturgeon released for 58 bank rods; and 15 legal white sturgeon kept, plus one legal, 240 sublegal and 23 oversize sturgeon released for 21 boats.

The Dalles Pool:

No report as of July 3, 2007.

John Day Pool:

No report as of July 3, 2007.

WALLEYE:

Troutdale:

No report as of July 3, 2007.

Bonneville Pool:

No report as of July 3, 2007.

The Dalles Pool:

No report as of July 3, 2007.

John Day Pool:

No report as of July 3, 2007.

VIEWING

Bonneville Hatchery:

Heading out to Multnomah Falls or points east? Stop by Bonneville Hatchery and pay a visit to the sturgeon viewing and interpretive center where you can watch sturgeon and trout through an underwater window.

Feed large rainbow trout in ponds and view adult white sturgeon measuring more than 10 feet long. Interpretive displays are available inside and out, including an informational video. Disabled-accessible restrooms are available. A gift shop is open during summer months.

The Hatchery is located 3 miles west of Cascade Locks, off of Interstate 84 within the Bonneville Dam complex. Neighboring Bonneville Dam offers a visitor center with a fish-viewing window.

Irrigon/Umitilla Area:

Irrigon Wildlife Area

Visit the Irrigon Wildlife Area for summer viewing opportunities. Upland birds, waterfowl and songbirds are common during most of the year. Western painted turtles can be observed during the early morning hours in summer. These native turtles spend most of their time in shallow, slow-moving water of streams, lakes and rivers; preferably with a soft, muddy bottom with vegetation and submerged logs. For photos and more information, visit http://www.willametteturtles.com/about.html

To reach the Wildlife Area, take exit 168 (Highway 730) and follow the signs to Irrigon. The wildlife area begins just east of Irrigon and runs to the Umatilla River near the City of Umatilla. Umatilla Wildlife Area is located between Highway 730 and the Columbia River. For more information. http://www.dfw.state.or.us/wildlifearea/irrigon_wildlife.htm

MARINE ZONE

FISHING

Record numbers of tuna were landed last week up and down the Oregon Coast. Anglers found them as close as 15 miles out in some places, but most seem to be about 25 miles offshore. The average catch per angler was between six and seven fish.

Herring are in many of the coastal bays this time of year. Jigging for herring is very popular with kids.

A series of early morning minus tides will begin July 10 and go until July 18. This will provide good opportunity for razor clam and bay clam digging. A minus tide is also an excellent time to go tide pooling.

Check out the new recreational bay clam pages on the ODFW Web site: http://www.dfw.state.or.us/MRP/shellfish/bayclams/index.asp

They contain everything you need to know for identifying and harvesting Oregon’s plentiful bay clams.

Anglers caught an average of one coho per angler along the Oregon coast from Astoria to Florence. From Winchester Bay south the catch was one fish for every two anglers, except at Brookings, where the catch was one fish for every angler. All retained coho must have a healed adipose fin clip. Fishing for chinook salmon was slow this past week with low effort and only one in 10 anglers reporting success.

Fishing for chinook salmon was slow with reported catches coastwide of only two fish for every 10 anglers.

About half of the fishers going after lingcod were successful. Average catches of rockfish were less than two per angler coastwide.

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.

Species illustrations and descriptions:

The Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations booklet (page 98):

The Red Rockfish Identification Guide

The minimum length for lingcod is 22 inches, for cabezon it is 16 inches and for greenling it is 10 inches.

Complete regulations

The Marine Sport Fishing Supplement

Coastwide catches of Pacific halibut averaged about one per angler again this week. The season opened May 1 in all-depth waters north of Cape Falcon and in nearshore waters (shoreward of the 40-fathom curve) off the Oregon central coast. The all-depth halibut fishery for Oregon’s central coast between Cape Falcon and Humbug Mountain has been extended to July 5-7 and 19-21 until the quota is met. The area south of Humbug Mountain runs May 1 through Oct. 31, seven days a week.

More information

Crabbing success in the ocean, bays and estuaries is about two crab per angler, except out of Garibaldi and Charleston where anglers report four crab per angler. 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 97 of the Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations booklet.

The entire Oregon coast is open for the harvest of razor clams. The daily limit for razor clams is the first 15 taken regardless of size or condition. Clatsop County beaches north of Tillamook head are closed to razor clams from July 15 to Sept. 30.

More information on Oregon’s razor clams, including tips on how to dig razor clams

Sport harvest of mussels and bay clams is open coastwide also. A shellfish license is required for taking all shellfish.

Information on domoic acid:

http://www.oregon.gov/ODA/FSD/shellfish_status.shtml

shellfish hotline, 503-986-4728 or 1-800-448-2474.

 

VIEWING

Bait fish (herring, anchovies and sardines) are appearing close to shore and in bays. This attracts seabirds including murres, gulls and pelicans that feed on the fish. Watching a group of pelicans dive on a school of bait fish can be spectacular. Good places to see this activity are bays or various view points along the coast line.

The seabirds that nest on the sea cliffs and rocks of the Oregon coast are raising their young. Gulls, cormorants, murres and oystercatchers can all be observed along rocky coastal areas. Occasionally, bald eagles may be seen attacking the nesting birds. Watch the sky for peregrine falcons.

Oregon’s high ocean cliffs provide good vantage points to look for the more than 200 resident grey whales that stay along the Oregon coast during the summer.

Tide pooling is good at low tide. Look for anemones, hermit crabs, sea urchins, small fish, jelly fish, sea stars, barnacles and other animals of the intertidal region.

Bandon Area:

Oregon Islands National Wildlife Refuge is located near Bandon. The refuge includes 1,800 rocks, reefs and islands and two headland areas and spans 320 miles of the Oregon coast. Coquille Point is a spectacular place to observe seabirds and harbor seals. It can be reached from US Highway 101 by turning west onto 11th Street in Bandon.

Cannon Beach:

Stop at Cannon Beach on your next trip to the coast and visit Haystack Rock to see a wealth of intertidal life. Plan to be there at low tide for the best experience as the marine garden exists in the zone between high and low tides. Weather and tide permitting Haystack Rock Awareness Program staffers can be found on the beach throughout the summer and on most low-tide mornings.

For more information, http://www.ci.cannon-beach.or.us/%7ENatural/HRAP/hrap-summer.html

Cannon Beach tide tables, http://www.cannon-beach.net/cbweather.html

Oceanside/Tillamook Area:

Three Arch Rocks Refuge

This Refuge lies a half mile offshore of Oceanside, west of Tillamook. One of the smallest designated Wilderness Areas in the country, the refuge consists of three large and six smaller rocks totaling 15 acres. A breeding population of Steller's sea lions is almost always visible at Three Arch Rocks.

The refuge also supports the largest breeding colony of common murre south of Alaska. Bring binoculars or a spotting scope. For more information. http://www.fws.gov/oregoncoast/3archrocks/

Cape Meares National Wildlife Refuge

Cape Meares National Wildlife Refuge is located approximately ten miles west of the town of Tillamook. When approaching Tillamook on US Highway 101, follow signs for the Three Capes Scenic Route and the town of Oceanside then turn west to the parking lot for Cape Meares. For more information.

http://www.fws.gov/oregoncoast/capemeares/index.htm