The weekly Oregon Recreation Report (fishing, hunting, viewing), updated Wednesday, Feb. 28, by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife:

WILLAMETTE ZONE

FISHING

Steelhead counts over Willamette Falls have picked up over the last couple of weeks as river temperature has increased. The spring reservoir refill has begun and river flows below the dams will be varying with rainfall and snowmelt. A few fresh steelhead have been picked up in the Willamette near Salem and the lower reaches of the North and South Santiams.

Waters scheduled for stocking this week include Henry Hagg Lake, Huddleston Pond, Sheridan Pond, and St. Louis Pond.

CLACKAMAS RIVER: The angling conditions improved from last week but are still not ideal. Monday's flows were at 4,180 cfs (13.32') and the water temperature at the hatchery was 39°.

Overall angling has been slow to fair with the constantly changing water conditions affecting catch rates. Winter steelhead are distributed throughout the river from McIver down to Gladstone, yet hooking into fish is still a challenge. When the water stabilizes and warms the fishing should improve.

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.

Boat anglers can find access to the river from boat ramps located at McIver Park (both upper and lower), Feldheimer's, Barton, Carver, Riverside, or Clackamette.

Boaters should be aware that early winter high water events have made changes to the river that could surprise unsuspecting boat anglers. Be very cautious of debris as well, since recent high water has likely deposited trees and logs into the river.

DETROIT, GREEN PETER reservoir levels are coming up. Holdover trout and kokanee are available should be picked up relatively close to the surface since the water is so cold. Try a flasher and bait combination.

EAGLE CREEK: As of Monday the creek was showing moderate flows and excellent color. Unfortunately the recent cold weather has brought the temperature down to 37° which has slowed the steelhead catch rate. With the weather pattern expected to continue this week it will likely be the weekend before the temperature improves. The hatchery has had over 900 adult steelhead return to the holding pond.

The water conditions on Eagle Creek can play an important part in deciding the type and color of gear to choose. Be prepared with both bright and subtle colors of jigs or spinners. Anglers may also have success with sand shrimp or small egg clusters and yarn.

The most popular spots to try include the Bonnie Lure area, the water above and below the lower fish ladder, Eagle Fern Park, and up near the hatchery. Much of the creek meanders through private property so pay attention to your location and secure permission before fishing from private property.

SANDY RIVER: The Sandy has seen a considerable increase in flow due to the recent rainy weather. Flow readings for Monday showed 3,290 cfs (10.50') and a water temperature near 40°. The river silted up over the weekend and was a marginal color on Monday.

Winter steelhead anglers in the mainstem had some limited success over the weekend with hatchery fish and wild fish mixed into the catch. Prior to the rainfall there were some good catches reported. Movement of steelhead into the hatchery has improved with nearly 100 fish sorted last week. About a dozen excess adult male steelhead were released into Roslyn Lake.

The Sandy fish are now a later returning stock versus what anglers were used to a few years ago. This is a result of the wild broodstock program initiated under the current Sandy River fish management plan. Angling should get better as water conditions improve and decent catch rates should be expected through March.

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: The Willamette River flows are on the rise due to the recent rainfall. Monday's readings were at 46,900 cfs, the visibility was less than 1.0 feet, and the temperature was steady at 44°. Fish counts at Willamette Falls totaled 2,731 winter steelhead through Feb. 18. One spring chinook has also passed through the ladder.

Winter steelhead anglers have had fair to good days depending on water conditions. Anglers can expect the Meldrum Bar and Dahl Park areas to provide the greatest opportunity. Steelhead will usually hug the bank in this area, many trying to get into the Clackamas River water as it flows into the eastern side of the Willamette. Most of these fish are destined for the Clackamas River and Eagle Creek.

There have been a few spring chinook caught throughout the Willamette with fish taken from Coon Island in the channel all the way up to Oregon City. The Sellwood area has also produced some early springer catch. The poor water conditions have slowed both the effort and catch but expect things to pick up when the water improves.

Please note that the Willamette River, including Multnomah Channel, is open for the retention of sturgeon under recently modified rules. Effective February 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.

There were several reports of keeper and sublegal sturgeon in the catch last week. The sections of river both above and below the St Johns Bridge have been very productive, as has Multnomah Channel. Boat anglers might also try the Oregon City/Gladstone area. Bank fishing for sturgeon can be found at Meldrum Bar and at the wall in downtown Oregon City. Sturgeon anglers have used fresh smelt or herring as effective bait.

WALTER WIRTH and WALLING POND in Salem were stocked by ODFW last week with catchable sized rainbow trout.

HENRY HAGG LAKE in Washington County opens to trout fishing Saturday. ODFW will stock the lake with 18,000 legal-size rainbow trout and 120 larger brood trout prior to opening day. The brood trout weigh approximately 18-20 pounds each. Located 25 miles southwest of Portland, Hagg Lake is a 1,200-acre reservoir constructed by the Bureau of Reclamation for irrigation and flood control. The lake averages 51 feet in depth and is 110 feet deep at its maximum.

HUNTING

ELK: Rainy and snowy weather has forced elk down to lower elevation agricultural fields and landowners are reporting increasing elk damage. Hunters with valid, unused controlled antlerless elk tags should consider contacting local farmers with pastures, hay and winter wheat fields. These are preferred elk foraging areas during the winter months and heavy elk activity can cause extensive damage to fields and crops. While all landowners may not allow hunting or trespass, a polite and courteous request may open up opportunities. Please respect landowner rights and ask for permission before hunting.

COYOTES: Hunters looking for a challenge and an opportunity to get out of the house and into the field should give predator hunting a try. Coyotes have paired up and have established their home territories, so hunters using a challenge howl or interrogation call will attract the most attention from these wary predators. Coyotes may take a little longer to respond at this time of year so stay on your stands a minimum of 30 minutes. Remember to ask permission from landowners before hunting.

E.E. WILSON WILDLIFE AREA (Monmouth): Open to rabbit hunting. For the week ending Feb. 25, 40 hunters harvested 32 rabbits. There were also 185 angler visits; ODFW recently stocked the pond with rainbow and brook trout of various legal sizes.

VIEWING

WILLAMETTE VALLEY: This is a great time of the year to observe a variety of raptors near agricultural fields in the Willamette Valley and swans and other waterfowl at the Trojan Pond west of Rainier, Jackson Bottom Wetlands south of Hillsboro, and the Fern Hill Wetlands near Forest Grove. Maximize your viewing opportunities by staying well hidden or remaining in your vehicle.

SAUVIE ISLAND WILDLIFE AREA (Portland): Sandhill cranes are frequently seen on Sauvie Island and the agriculture fields near Scappoose and are beginning their ritual mating dance. Cranes tend to feed and loaf in larger fields that do not provide close-up and easy viewing opportunities. Try to find higher vantage points to locate cranes and use a spotting scope or higher powered binoculars to get the best view. Currently, the migratory waterfowl numbers are impressive, making other viewing opportunities easy. An American Bald Eagle was spotted in the field in front of the eastside viewing platform as if showing off for pictures. When viewing wildlife, remember to respect private land owner rights and do not trespass.

FERN RIDGE WILDLIFE AREA (Eugene): Wintering concentrations of Canada geese and other waterfowl are present at Fern Ridge Wildlife Area and lake. Several thousand geese can be observed each evening arriving at Fern Ridge lake and departing each morning around daybreak. Closures remain in effect until March 14 in the East Coyote, West Coyote, Fisher Butte, and Royal-Amazon units, which are open only on Saturdays for wildlife viewing but closed the rest of the week to provide sanctuary areas for wildlife.

E.E. WILSON WILDLIFE AREA (Monmouth): There are large numbers of migratory birds returning. April and May are the best viewing times for birders as there are both migratory and nesting birds in the wildlife area at the same time in breeding plumage. E.E. Wilson provides a photography blind for waterfowl during the months of April and May by reservation only. Reservations can be made by calling the office at (541) 745-5334.

NORTHWEST ZONE

FISHING

Mid Coast Lakes Stocking Schedule: The following water bodies were stocked with catchable rainbow trout during the week of Feb. 19. In the Newport area: Big Creek Reservoirs 1 and 2, Olalla Reservoir. The following water bodies were stocked the week of Feb. 12. In the Newport area: Big Creek Reservoirs 1, Olalla Reservoir. In the Florence area: Alder, Buck, Cleawox, Dune, Elbow, Lost, North Georgia, Perkins, Siltcoos Lagoon, and Munsel lakes. In the Waldport area: Thissel Pond.

ALSEA RIVER: Winter steelhead fishing will remain fair to good through the weekend. Anglers should concentrate on fishing the upper river and/or tributaries during high water periods. Current river levels and forecasts can be found at http://www.nwrfc.noaa.gov/river/station/flowplot/flowplot.cgi?TIDO3.

BIG CREEK: Winter steelhead angling is fair. A few hatchery fish are still available. Call 503-458-6529 for recorded fishing information.

GNAT CREEK: Steelhead fishing has been fair. A few hatchery fish are still available. Call 503-455-0701 for recorded water conditions and steelhead fishing information.

KILCHIS RIVER: Winter steelhead angling is fair to good. The catch is primarily wild fish this time of year, but a few hatchery fish are available also. A tree has fallen across the river just below Kilchis Park. Although partially cleared, boaters should use extreme caution in this stretch until the tree is cleared.

NECANICUM RIVER: Winter steelhead angling is fair to good. A few hatchery fish are still present, but most of the catch will be wild fish. Fish will be distributed throughout the river.

NORTH FORK NEHALEM RIVER: Winter steelhead angling has been slow to fair. More wild fish are showing in the catch as the number of hatchery fish tapers off. Call the Nehalem Hatchery recorded information line at 503-368-5670 for updated reports. ODFW is conducting voluntary creel surveys on the North Fork. There are kiosks located at several locations along the river for anglers. Please stop and fill out a survey form.

NORTH FORK KLASKANINE RIVER: Some winter steelhead are available throughout the system up to Klaskanine Hatchery. Fishing has been fair. Public access is available at the hatchery and downstream off of Hwy 202.

NESTUCCA RIVER AND THREE RIVERS: Angling for winter steelhead should be good when high water levels recede. The catch is a mixture of hatchery and wild fish. Fish will be distributed throughout the river system. Before fishing, check river levels at http://ahps2.wrh.noaa.gov/ahps2/hydrograph.php?wfo=pqr

NORTH COAST LAKES: Hebo, North, South, and Town lakes are scheduled to be stocked with legal size rainbow trout the week of March 5. Coffenbury Lake, Sunset Lake, Town Lake, Cape Meares Lake, Tahoe Lake, Spring Lake, and Lorens Pond have been stocked with surplus hatchery steelhead.

SALMON RIVER: Winter steelhead catch and release fishing is fair to good.

SILETZ RIVER: Winter steelhead fishing is fair. Basin traps are getting decent numbers of winter steelhead and many are being recycled back into the fishery. Anglers should concentrate on fishing the upper river. Current river levels and forecasts can be found at http://www.nwrfc.noaa.gov/river/station/flowplot/flowplot.cgi?SILO3

SIUSLAW RIVER: The winter steelhead fishery is fair to good. High river flows have moved many winter steelhead and anglers should concentrate on the upper river sections. The fishery is anticipated to remain productive throughout the week. Current river levels and forecasts can be found at http://www.nwrfc.noaa.gov/river/station/flowplot/flowplot.cgi?MPLO3

TILLAMOOK BAY: Angling for sturgeon has improved with recent high waters. Use sand shrimp on the bottom near the channel edges on the outgoing tides for best success. Move often until you locate some fish.

WILSON AND TRASK RIVERS: Winter steelhead are available throughout the Wilson and Trask rivers. Angling should be good as water levels recede. The catch has been a mix of hatchery and wild fish. Fish are spread throughout the river systems. Check river levels at http://ahps2.wrh.noaa.gov/ahps2/index.php?wfo=pqr prior to fishing.

YAQUINA RIVER: Winter steelhead fishing is slow. The fishery in the Big Elk has slowed with most fish having moved above the fishing deadline. The best fishing in the Big Elk is typically from the fishing deadline and downstream a few miles.

VIEWING

The OREGON COAST BIRDING TRAIL GUIDE www.oregoncoastbirding.com is a website that highlights great birding opportunities all along the Oregon coast. It's divided into sections of coastline, and the north coast is only a click away from the main home page. On the north coast page, you can find key areas with a summary of birds typically found there along with a legend of services found nearby. Links to checklists and sponsors can be found on the home page as well.

ROOSEVELT ELK are common in the fields at Jewell Meadows Wildlife Management Area, located in central Clatsop County off of Hwy. 26. The larger bulls are generally found in fields on the west end of the main refuge tract (Fishhawk) along Hwy 202, and the cows, calves and smaller bulls usually occupy the larger fields on the eastern end. Elk can also be seen on the Beneke Tract along Beneke Road and on the Humbug Tract near Camp 18 along Hwy 26.

MIGRATING WATERFOWL are in north coast estuaries, including the lower Columbia River, in good numbers. These include geese, dabbling, diving and sea ducks as well as grebes, loons and rails. Tillamook Bay is an excellent place to see this large variety of seasonal birds.

TWILIGHT EAGLE SANCTUARY, located east of Astoria off of Hwy 30 near Svensen, and is an excellent place to see wintering birds in and around the Columbia River. Not only do bald eagles frequent the adjacent Wolf Bay area, but a wide assortment of water loving birds, including swans, geese, ducks, grebes and rails as well as song birds. There is a handicap accessible platform located just off of the road. Be sure to bring your binoculars and spotting scope.

GREAT EGRETS are large, elegant-looking, white wading birds about the size of a great blue heron. In recent years they have become more numerous in or near north coast estuaries. Initially noticed along Tillamook Bay and Netarts Bays, they can be seen in other estuaries to the north and south. Often times they can be in groups of 15 or more working tidal flats at low tides.

HUNTING

COUGAR season is open on the north coast. These secretive animals are difficult to hunt in an active sense, by stalking or glassing areas. They are best hunted from a stand with a predator call and an aggressive calling technique.

SOUTHWEST ZONE

FISHING

APPLEGATE RIVER: Rain and snow over the past week have put the river out of shape for fishing. Outflows from the reservoir are averaging 112 cubic feet per second and the river temperature is 41F. The Applegate River is open for adipose fin-clipped steelhead between January 1 and March 31. The Applegate is also open for trout fishing with a limit of 2 adipose fin-clipped rainbow trout per day, 8 inch minimum length. Non-adipose fin-clipped rainbow trout and all cutthroat trout must be released unharmed. The use of bait is allowed.

APPLEGATE RESERVOIR: Rainbow trout and land-locked juvenile spring chinook salmon are available. Bank anglers will likely fish either floating bait or worms, while trollers can do well fishing a spinner and worm combination. The low water ramp at French Gulch is open.

CHETCO RIVER: High water has slowed steelhead fishing, but plunkers are still picking up a few fresh steelhead. Anglers should expect fishing conditions to improve toward the weekend. Anglers have been picking up quite a few spawned out steelhead.

COOS COUNTY LAKES: Trout stocking scheduled for late February has been pushed back to late March. Cold water temps slowed trout growth this winter and delaying the stocking will allow trout to put on additional size prior to stocking. Nice holdover trout are available though. Warmwater fish can still be caught but require a slow presentation with the low water temperatures.

COOS RIVER BASIN: The catch rate and effort has slowed due to high water conditions. Fishing should improve when the rivers drop. The West Fork Millicoma recovers quickest after rain storms, followed by the East Fork and then the South Coos. Anglers still have time to get out for some great steelhead fishing. The West Fork Millicoma has good public access on the Elliott State Forest where many steelhead are caught. The Nesika Park area on the East Fork also has good public access. Access to the South Fork above Dellwood requires a permit from Weyerhaeuser Co., available at Airport Heights and TNT Markets. Weyerhaeuser is no longer issuing these permits at their Dellwood office. The stretch of river above Dellwood has good bank access and and an acclimation site near mile 5 where many fish are caught.

COQUILLE RIVER BASIN: Rivers have been running pretty high lately. Effort dropped off on the South Fork due to high flows, but fish are still being caught on the East and North Fork. When the South Fork drops back into shape, steelhead fishing should be good. The South and North Fork Coquille provide good opportunities for anglers to catch steelhead. Laverne Park on the North Fork provides good bank access for anglers.

EMIGRANT RESERVOIR: If water clarity is good, early season trout anglers might want to try Emigrant for holdover rainbow stocked last year. Bass and panfish are also available. Anglers should be aware that recent testing by the Department of Human Services has found elevated levels of mercury in smallmouth bass at Emigrant, and a health advisory has been issued recommending limits on consumption of all fish from Emigrant except rainbow trout. Information on the Emigrant Reservoir advisory, along with general information on mercury and fish can be found on the DHS website at www.healthoregon.org/fishadv.

EXPO POND: Adult summer steelhead are available in Expo Pond located immediately adjacent to the access road at Gate 5 at the fairgrounds. These fish, stocked in January, are excess to broodstock needs at the hatchery and are in good condition, averaging 4 to 5 pounds. Anglers have had success casting spinners and spoons. Fly anglers casting leech or wooly bugger-type streamers should do well, while bait anglers might try either nightcrawlers or a small piece of salmon roe either below a bobber or off the bottom. The steelhead in the pond are considered to be trout under the sport fishing regulations. Trout bag limit for lakes is five per day, 8 inch minimum length; only one trout over 20 inches may be taken per day.

FISH LAKE: Rainbow and brook trout are available. Anglers should be prepared for winter conditions and varying levels of ice coverage.

ILLINOIS RIVER: Flows are up on the Illinois and will probably remain so for the next several days making angling challenging. The Illinois River up to Pomeroy Dam is open for adipose fin-clipped steelhead and trout between January 1 and March 31. Tackle is limited to artificial flies and lures only.

LAKE SELMAC: Lake Selmac has been stocked with 4,100 legal-sized rainbow trout. Largemouth bass and panfish are also available. Bank anglers should try floating bait off the bottom.

LOST CREEK RESERVOIR Rainbow trout and land-locked juvenile spring chinook salmon are available. Bank anglers will likely fish either floating bait or worms, while trollers can do well fishing a spinner and worm combination.

PACIFIC OCEAN & BEACHES: Winter bottom fishing can be good when ocean conditions permit but anglers should be cautious of bar and ocean conditions that can turn dangerous quickly this time of year. Anglers who have got out before the recent storms did well with many lingcod reported. Fishing inside the bay has also produced some fish along the jetties. The minimum size for lingcod retention dropped to 22 inches on January 1. The limit remains 2 legal lingcod. Some surfperch are being caught. Good spots for surfperch are around Horsfall Beach and Bullards Beach.

REINHART PARK POND: Reinhart Park Pond in Grants Pass, formerly called All Sports Pond, will be stocked this week with 300 legal sized rainbow trout. This pond was also stocked in January with 60 adult summer steelhead. The steelhead are excess to broodstock needs at the hatchery and are in good condition, averaging 4 to 5 pounds. Fishing success should pick up as the water warms. Bait anglers using nightcrawlers have had some success. Other techniques include casting small spinners or spoons. Fly anglers may want to try casting leech or wooly bugger-type streamers. The steelhead in the pond are considered to be trout under the sport fishing regulations. Trout bag limit for lakes is five per day, 8 inch minimum length; only one trout over 20 inches may be taken per day.

ROGUE RIVER, LOWER: High water and cold weather has put a freeze on steelhead fishing this week. Anglers should expect fishing to improve by the weekend. No reports of spring Chinook.

ROGUE RIVER, MIDDLE: The river is high and off-color making angling challenging. Flows are averaging 12,825 cubic feet per second at Grants Pass as of Monday morning.

The Rogue from Hog Creek boat landing to Cole Rivers Hatchery is now open for non-adipose fin-clipped steelhead, at least 24 inches long; 1 fish per day, 5 per year as part of the daily or annual salmon/steelhead catch limit. The river is open to the harvest of adipose fin-clipped steelhead year-round.

Bank access for steelhead can be found at Chinook Park, Matson Park, Griffin Park and Robertson Bridge. Additional access is available below Hellgate Canyon. Gold Hill to Rogue River and Robertson Bride to Hog Creek are popular drifts for boat anglers.

The Rogue is also open for trout fishing with a limit of five adipose fin-clipped trout per day, 8 inch minimum length. All non-adipose fin-clipped rainbow and all cutthroat trout must be released unharmed.

ROGUE RIVER, UPPER: A total of 2768 winter steelhead have been counted at Gold Ray Dam as of February 22. Outflows from Lost Creek Reservoir are averaging 1023 cubic feet per second as of Monday morning; the surface temperature of the reservoir is 40F.A few winter steelhead were caught over the weekend on flies, yarn, and worms.

The Rogue from Hog Creek boat landing to Cole Rivers Hatchery is now open for non-adipose fin-clipped steelhead, at least 24 inches long; 1 fish per day, 5 per year as part of the daily or annual salmon/steelhead catch limit. The river is open to the harvest of adipose fin-clipped steelhead year-round.

Anglers are reminded that even during high water and turbid conditions along most of the Rogue, conditions are usually good between Big Butte Creek and Cole Rivers Hatchery where reservoir outflows predominate.

The Rogue is also open for trout fishing with a limit of five adipose fin-clipped trout per day, 8 inch minimum length, but all non-adipose fin-clipped rainbow and all cutthroat trout must be released unharmed. Bank anglers can enjoy good success between the hatchery and the Highway 62 Bridge, and at public access points such as Casey State Park, Rogue Elk Park, and Touvelle State Park.

SMITH RIVER: Winter steelhead fishing opened on Dec. 1. 125 winter steelhead have been passed through Smith River Falls. Catch and release fishing for wild steelhead has improved with the increased flows. There are a few hatchery strays that can be caught. Wild steelhead must be released unharmed from the Smith River. Hatchery clipped steelhead only may be retained.

SOUTH COAST LAKES AND PONDS Boat and bank anglers fishing Garrison Lake have had fair success with carry over trout. ODFW sampled Garrison Lake last week and reported good numbers of cutthroat and carry over rainbow trout in the lake.

SOUTH COAST STREAMS: Rains this weekend put the steelhead on the move. Anglers will have numerous options for catching a steelhead. Look for some of the best action to come from Elk and Sixes River. Anglers can keep on eye on Elk River flows by calling Elk River Hatchery. The best flow is 5 feet and dropping.

SOUTH COAST BEACHES: No report.

TENMILE BASIN: Steelhead are in Tenmile Creek and angling has been good. Spinreel Park is a popular spot for anglers who fish within the park or walk downstream. Eel Creek is open for steelhead angling below Eel Lake, but the creek is small and brushy, and requires special techniques to hook and land fish from small pockets.

UMPQUA ESTUARY: No new report this week.

UMPQUA RIVER MAINSTEM: No new report this week. Winter steelhead fishing was very slow for the majority of last week. Side drifting roe has been the most effective fishing method. Spin-n-glos are the favored lure and can be used effectively with or without bait. Anglers may now retain one wild winter steelhead per day and five for the year.

UMPQUA RIVER, NORTH: No new report this week but steelhead numbers have been slightly above average through Winchester Dam. Winchester Dam counts show that 1,262 winter steelhead have passed over the dam through February 6th.

UMPQUA RIVER, SOUTH: No new report this week. Winter steelhead fishing opened Dec. 1. Wild steelhead must be released unharmed in the South Umpqua River. Hatchery clipped steelhead only may be retained.

WINCHESTER BAY: No new report this week.

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

Crabs in Coos Bay and the Coquille are mating now which creates slow crabbing conditions. The crab are there and should be active again after mating is complete. Winter crabbing can be excellent when the weather and water conditions cooperate. The COOS BAY shoals (20-30 feet deep) along the inside of the North Spit from Empire to Charleston is a good area for crabbing. Public crabbing docks can be found in Winchester Bay, Bandon, Charleston, and Empire.

HUNTING

COOS COUNTY

COUGAR: Look for areas frequented by deer and elk to hunt cougars. Roadless areas on public or private land with limited access are good choices. Remember to "ask first" before hunting private lands. Private landowners can be a valuable source of information when it comes to recent cougar sightings in the area.

Some hunters find success in harvesting cougars by using predator calls in areas where cougar sign is found.

Hunters are reminded to get a 2007 cougar tag before hunting cougars after January 1, 2007.

FURBEARERS: Now that big game and game bird seasons are over some open-minded hunters are taking advantage of hunting opportunities for furbearers. Furbearers include beavers, raccoons, bobcats and others. Other similar species that are hunted in winter include coyotes and nutria. Seasons for many of these animals are going on now. Most of them have a fur value and can be sold to fur buyers.

Due to the fact that specific licenses and tags are required to hunt many of these species hunters should refer to the Oregon Furbearer Trapping and Hunting Regulations to research this. Also, your local ODFW office can answer many questions.

WATERFOWL: Portion of the Southwest Coast counties have a new goose hunt for Feb. 24, 2007 thru March 10. Hunt is on private lands only. See page 16-17 of regulations for details or visit http://www.dfw.state.or.us/news/2007/feb/07.asp

Some Aleutian Canada Geese may be beginning to move into the Langois area. Otherwise there is a healthy population of Western Canada geese available.

CURRY, JACKSON AND JOSEPHINE COUNTIES

COUGARS: A new regulation for 2007 allows the purchase of two cougar tags, consult regulation. With low snow levels cougar tracks maybe easily located along ridge line, aggressive predator calling have resulted in successful hunting.

COYOTE: Coyotes numbers have increased in our counties. Hunters will find good success by predator calling. There are plenty of public lands to hunt. If hunting private lands remember to ask for permission.

WATERFOWL: Portion of the Southwest Coast counties have a new goose hunt for Feb. 24, 2007 thru March 10. Hunt is on private lands only. See page 16-17 of regulations for details or visit http://www.dfw.state.or.us/news/2007/feb/07.asp

DOUGLAS COUNTY

ELK n All general seasons have passed, and only a few controlled hunts remain until March 31. Hunters are being asked to drop off their elk heads at the local ODFW office within 48 hours of harvest for CWD testing.

COUGARn Hunters can expect an average year. Cougars are abundant throughout with indicators pointing to stable or increasing numbers.

WATERFOWL- New for this year is a South Coast Zone goose hunt from Feb. 24-March 10. All hunting is on private property by permission and hunters are reminded that public lands are closed. Visit http://www.dfw.state.or.us/news/2007/feb/07.asp for more information.

TRAPPING

FURBEARERS n A reminder to trappers and hunters that specific licenses and tags are required to hunt many furbearer species, and hunters should refer to the Oregon Furbearer Trapping and Hunting Regulations for details.

* Bobcat and Gray Fox - Healthy populations throughout Western Oregon. The last day of the season for these species is February 28.

* River Otter, Beaver & Raccoon n Healthy populations throughout Western Oregon. The last day of the season for these species is March 15.

* Mink & Muskrat - Healthy populations throughout Western Oregon. The last day of the season for mink and muskrat is March 31.

VIEWING

COOS COUNTY

Winter is a good time for viewing wildlife in Coos County. Big game animals are becoming visible in clear cuts and other forest openings. Often south slopes are the best place to look due to the fact that these slopes warm first in the mornings and green up occurs there first.

Bull elk are very visible now at the Dean Creek Elk Viewing Area located east of Reedsport on Hwy 38. Often the elk are out on the fields all day. However, early morning and late evening are often the best times to see them.

As we enter spring warm sunny days will make black bears become active. Those wishing to see these elusive animals may have some luck using optics to watch forest openings. Often bears will move into slides on hill sides where grass is beginning to green up.

Waterfowl are numerous in many water bodies now. Many of these birds are in their colorful breeding plumage. Places to look would be in the calmer waters of Coos Bay and other bays, Bandon Wildlife Refuge, Dean Creek Elk Viewing Area and flooded farm fields in the Coquille River Valley.

A good viewing opportunity available now that is unique to the coast is the viewing of seaducks in the bays. Seaducks are scoters, eiders, oldsquaw harlequin ducks and others. These species are numerous along the Oregon coast now and they are in prime plumage. Look for these birds in various places in the bays or along the coast. Depending on the species in question and what they are feeding on at the time these birds could be found in many locations.

DOUGLAS COUNTY

Bald Eagles n Observe wintering bald eagles along the main Umpqua River from Roseburg to Reedsport and N. Umpqua from Roseburg to Steamboat Creek.

Waterfowl n Good early morning duck and goose viewing exists every winter at Cooper Cr. and Plat-I in Sutherlin plus Stewart Park in Roseburg.

Shorebirds and Raptors n Check out Plat I Reservoir in Sutherlin at Sutherlin creek inlet on the eastside of the lake for various shorebirds. This area is also a good site to see winter raptors like Black-shouldered Kites and Northern Goshawks.

Songbirds n Winter songbirds like Western Bluebirds, Black-headed Grosbeaks, House Wrens, thrushes and various sparrows are present at Stewart Park Duck Pond and Stewart Park trail in Roseburg. Remember to clean out your songbird nesting boxes or put up new boxes now since courtship, nest building and raising nestlings happens for many birds in April and May.

Fish Spawning n Each year there is a chance to observe wild Winter Steelhead spawning just below Soda Springs dam on the N. Umpqua River 55 miles east of Roseburg.

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

ROGUE WATERSHED

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

LAKE SELMAC is a great place to see waterfowl, eagles, osprey and other lake shore birds. Directions from Grants Pass, take Hwy 199 west about 12 miles to lake turn off sign at Lakeshore Drive. Turn left, follow to lake.

LOST CREEK LAKE provides 30 miles of trails which includes portions of the Rogue River National Recreation Trail. Along the lake and river banks a wide variety of wildlife and wild flowers can be observed. During winter months deer may be seen early in the morning and late evenings along water ways. A brochure of the trail system can be picked up at federal land agency and visitor centers in the area.

UPPER AND LOWER TABLE ROCKS rise 800 feet above the valley floor. Habitat types range form oak savanna and chaparral to woodland. On the summit a diversity of wildflowers and wildlife can be found along the trails. Spring can provide some of the best viewing times.

HARBOR SEALS can be observed in estuaries throughout the South Coast. Look for sandy haul out sites. Remember, spring is puping season so please observe these animals from a distance. If you find pups on the beach, leave them where you found them.

WHALE WATCHING is occurring along the coast with the end of March as one of the two north bound migration peaks. Viewing points within Curry County from north to south are Battle Rock, Cape Sebastian, Cape Ferrelo, and Harris Beach State Park.

CENTRAL ZONE

FISHING

Contact ODFW at the Deschutes Watershed Office (541) 388-6363 for more information.

ANTELOPE FLAT RESERVOIR: Opportunities for 12-14 inch rainbow trout are fair. Illegally introduced bullhead have had a negative impact on trout angling. Recent snows may limit access. Contact Ochoco National Forest @ 541-416-6500.

CLEAR LAKE: Located about 20 miles west of Maupin. Access difficult due to snow.

CRESCENT LAKE: No boat ramps are accessible due to snow and the lake is still reported to be frozen over.

CROOKED RIVER BELOW BOWMAN DAM: Due to recent rains, as of Monday, the river flow was 400 cfs. This may limit angling opportunities.

DESCHUTES RIVER: Dry fly fishing has been slow; anglers should look at using nymphing tactics in the slow water areas.

DESCHUTES RIVER Lake Billy Chinook to Benham Falls: No reports from anglers fishing the reach from Bend to Lake Billy Chinook. Deschutes River flows in this reach are over 1000 cfs making the angling a little more challenging. There has though reportedly been good success by anglers working the waters from Bend upstream to Benham Falls. The section of river from Dillon Falls upstream to Benham has been seeing some good brown trout action.

FALL RIVER: Angler success continues to be fair for some and poor for others. The fish are reportedly fairly subdued with not a lot of interest in what the anglers have to offer. Fall River offers a great opportunity for anglers during the winter months though the fish don't always bite according to plan.

FROG LAKE: Located about 20 miles west of Maupin. Access difficult due to snow.

HAYSTACK RESERVOIR: Reservoir is ice free. A limited number of large brood rainbow trout were released recently. Angling for these fish is a great late winter-spring opportunity.

LAKE BILLY CHINOOK: The Metolius Arm opens to angling on March 1. Opportunities for bull trout are excellent. Anglers are reminded the harvest limit is one bull trout over 24 inches. Both a tribal angling permit and state license are required to fish in the Metolius Arm.

METOLIUS RIVER: Anler success has been mixed with good reports and fair reports. Depending on the weather and time of day fish may be seen on the rise chasing a caddis fly. The word is though, that the anglers have to really to work to get those same fish to look at their offerings. Anglers targeting bull trout seem to be having the best success. Regardless of success it's hard to beat a day on the Metolius.

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

PINE HOLLOW: ODFW will stock in mid-March.

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

ROCK CREEK RESERVOIR: Located near Wamic. ODFW will stocked this waterbody in the spring.

WALTON LAKE: Opportunities for 8-16 inch rainbow trout are fair.

HUNTING

GENERAL: Recreationalists should be prepared for cold, and wet or icy conditions. Snow accumulations are below average, but icy and crusted snow is present above 4000 feet elevation. Off road motorized travel should not be attempted without proper equipment and checking with local BLM and Forest Service officials regarding motorized access restrictions in effect to protect wintering big game.

PRINEVILLE RESERVOIR WMA: The north side access road and WMA are closed to motorized access for the protection of wintering big game. The area is open to foot traffic and other non-motorized access.

COUGAR: Cougar are reported regularly in the Maury, Ochoco, and Grizzly units, at all elevations and habitat types. Areas to consider include the Alkali Butte and Sanford Creek (Maury WMU); Bridge Creek, Sunflower Creek, and Lookout Mountain (Ochoco WMU); and Green Mountain, Mill Creek, and Marks Creek (Grizzly WMU). As winter progresses areas frequented by concentrations of wintering elk and deer will be areas to scout for cougar sign.

VIEWING

OCHOCO DISTRICT: Wintering bald and golden eagles, a variety of hawks and falcons, and waterfowl are present along the Post-Paulina Highway east of Prineville. If observers extend their drive and include the Puett Road loop through the Paulina Ranger Station they have an opportunity of seeing wintering deer, pronghorn, elk, and coyotes. This route is suitable for passenger cars

LOWER DESCHUTES WILDLIFE AREA: Visitors to this area can see California bighorn sheep on a regular basis upstream of Harris Canyon (RM 12). Access will be by boat or bicycle.

SOUTHEAST ZONE

FISHING

Contact Klamath Watershed Office (541) 883-5732 for more information on fishing opportunities.

ANA RESERVOIR: Hybrid bass fishing has been good. Trout fishing has been fair.

BEULAH RESERVOIR: The reservoir was 63 percent full on February 25, and inflow was 59 cfs. The reservoir is generally ice free. There maybe some ice around the shore and in the backs of coves. Fishing is slow.

BIG ROCK RESERVOIR: Access to this reservoir is difficult due to muddy roads.

BLITZEN RIVER: Catch and release for trout from Nov. 1 through May 26. Two fish bag limit from May 27 through October 31. Warm weather mixed with rain and snow has led to variable river conditions. Flow was 49 cfs on February 26.

BULLY CREEK RESERVOIR: The reservoir was 72 percent full on February 25. The reservoir is ice free. Angling for warmwater fish is slow.

BURNS POND: The pond is free of ice. No angling report.

CHICKAHOMINY RESERVOIR: The reservoir is free of ice.. Angling is fair to good for 10 to 18 inch rainbow trout.

CHEWAUCAN RIVER: The river is closed to angling below Paisley until May 28. Angling is fair for redband trout above Paisley as water temperatures have decreased.

COTTONWOOD RESERVOIR: Angling success has been slow. Remember special regulation, two trout per day. The lake is frozen and ice fishing is not recommended. Access is difficult due to snow

DEEP CREEK: Angling is fair for redband trout.

DUNCAN RESERVOIR: Reservoir is frozen although warm weather has made the ice soft.

DELINTMENT LAKE: Always watch for thin ice. Be especially cautious after the recent warm weather. No reports on ice thickness at the lake. Access up the Forest Service 41 road may be limited by snow.

FISH LAKE (Steens Mountain): The north loop road is closed at Page Springs.

FOURMILE LAKE: Access is blocked by snow. The lake is frozen.

GERBER RESERVOIR: Gerber Reservoir is frozen. The warming weather has made the ice unsafe in spots. Perch angling has been good.

JUNIPER LAKE: No angling report.

KLAMATH AND AGENCY LAKES: Angling for wild redband trout has been slow.

KLAMATH RIVER: Boyle Dam downstream to Oregon /California border-Angling for native redband trout has been slow. Keno Dam downstream to JC Boyle Dam: Angling for wild Redband trout has been slow but flows remain low enough for successful angling.

Keno Dam downstream to JC Boyle Dam: Access is difficult due to snow depth.

KRUMBO RESERVOIR: Closed to angling through April 27.

LAKE OF THE WOODS: The Lake is frozen although the warm weather has made the ice soft. Perch angling is reported to be good.

LITTLE HEART LAKE: Access is blocked by snow.

LOFTON RESERVOIR: Access is blocked by snow.

LONG CREEK RESERVOIR: Ice fishing has been good but access is getting tough even with 4x4 vehicle.

LOST RIVER: Angling has been slow for warm water game fish.

MALHEUR RIVER (Warm Springs Reservoir downstream to South Fork Malheur River): Angling below the dam is slow. Flows from Warm Springs Reservoir have been shut for the winter

MALHEUR RIVER (from the South Fork Malheur River near Riverside, downstream to Gold Creek): Flows down the South Fork Malheur River increased, which resulted turbid flows in the Malheur River from Riverside downstream. Flows from Warm Springs and Beulah dams have been shut off for the winter. Angling is slow.

MALHEUR RESERVOIR: Water level is down about 6 feet from full. The reservoir is generally ice-free. There maybe some ice remaining near the dam. Trout angling is slow.

MALHEUR RIVER, NORTH FORK: Access to the North Fork is limited by snow. Trout angling is slow. Remember to release bull trout. Angling is restricted to artificial flies and lures upstream of Beulah Reservoir.

MALHEUR RIVER, MIDDLE FORK: Access to the Middle Fork is limited by snow. Trout angling is slow. Remember to release bull trout. Angling is restricted to artificial flies and lures upstream of Bluebucket Creek.

MANN LAKE: No recent angling report. Special regulations are in effect. Two trout per day, 16 inch minimum length. The lake is free of ice.

MILLER LAKE: Access is blocked by snow.

MOON RESERVOIR: The reservoir should be free of ice.. The access road has been closed to prevent road damage.

MURRAY RESERVOIR: Ice fishing has been fair.

NORTH MALHEUR BLM STOCK PONDS: With the warm and wet weather, the ice on many of the lower elevation pond has started to melt. In addition, the roads have softened into many of the ponds. Access maybe limited. Anglers need to use caution when walking on ponds the ice may not be thick enough any more to support their weight.

OWYHEE RESERVOIR: The reservoir was 74 percent full February 25. All boat ramps are in the water. The reservoir should be generally ice-free. Again, there may be some ice remaining in the backs of coves so boaters should still use caution. Warmwater angling is slow.

OWYHEE RIVER (Lower): Irrigation flows below the dam are shut off for the winter. Discharge was 32 cfs on February 25. Anglers still need to be aware of redds and not step on them. Angling for rainbow trout and brown trout is fair.

OWYHEE RIVER (Upper): Discharge at the Rome gauge averaged approximately 386 cfs on February 25. Angling for smallmouth and channel catfish is slow.

PHILLIPS RESERVOIR: Fishing is fair-good for trout and perch. Trout are running 12-14 inches. Perch are 10-11 inches. Some report that fishing near the bottom with cicadas (silver, blue, chartreuse, or gold) has been very productive. Ice is 14-16 inches thick. Use caution as temperatures warm, as the edges may be thin. Water is starting to rise and is at 52 percent.

PILCHER RESERVOIR: Ice is on the lake. Fishing is Fair-slow. Water level is at 19 percent.

POLE CREEK RESERVOIR: The reservoir is ice-free. Angling is slow.

POWDER RIVER: Open for catch and release upstream of Hughes Lane Bridge to Mason Dam. Artificial lures and flies only.

SHERLOCK GULCH RESERVOIR: Fishing has been good for legal sized trout. Check road conditions prior to traveling to reservoir.

SNAKE RIVER: Flow was 10,110 cfs near Nyssa and approximately 12,231 cfs near Weiser on February 25. Angling for catfish and smallmouth bass is slow.

SOUTH MALHEUR BLM STOCK PONDS: With the warm and wet weather, the ice on many of the lower elevation pond has started to melt. In addition, the roads have softened into many of the ponds. Access maybe limited. Anglers need to use caution when walking on ponds the ice may not be thick enough any more to support their weight.

SPAULDING RESERVOIR: Fishing has been slow for legal sized trout. Access will be difficult due to snow

SUNSTONE RESERVOIR: Fishing has been slow for legal size trout.

SYCAN RIVER: Closed to angling.

THOMPSON RESERVOIR: Access to Thompson Reservoir will be difficult due to snow. Reservoir is currently frozen.

TOPSY RESERVOIR: Access is difficult due to ice on the boat Ramp and most of the reservoir.

THIEF VALLEY RESERVOIR: Fishing is slow. Reservoir is full.

TOPSY RESERVOIR: Angling for Warmwater fish has been slow. Access difficult due to snow.

UNITY RESERVOIR: Some fish are being caught but generally slow. Water level is at 60 percent. Be cautious as the water levels are rising. Ice gets unstable at the edges.

WARM SPRINGS RESERVOIR: The reservoir was 58 percent full February 25. We have no reports on ice conditions. However, with the warmer weather the ice should be off soon. Angling is slow.

WARNER LAKES: Crappie are available. Winter conditions exist, be prepared.

WILLOW VALLEY RESERVOIR: The reservoir is frozen. Ice fishing is not recommended.

WOLF CREEK RESERVOIR: Access to ice fishing is getting more difficult, as the ice is melting along the edges. Use caution.

YELLOWJACKET LAKE: Always watch for thin ice. Be especially cautious after the recent warm weather. No recent reports on ice conditions. Access roads were covered with a few inches of snow and ice in early February, but recent snowstorms may make access more difficult

HUNTING

New for this year is a late goose season Feb. 24-March 10. The new Klamath County zone goose hunt will target only white-fronted geese and is allowed only on private land; Klamath Wildlife Area and all other public lands or waters owned or controlled by any state, county, or federal agency, including public waters, waterways, and impoundments, will be closed to hunting during this season. Visit http://www.dfw.state.or.us/news/2007/feb/07.asp for more information on this special hunt.

VIEWING

Late winter and early spring is one of the best wildlife viewing time periods in the Klamath Basin, which is a major staging area for migratory birds starting their northward migration to primary nesting areas.

The KLAMATH WILDLIFE AREA and LOWER KLAMATH NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE are excellent locations to view thousands of ducks, geese, and swans. Snow, ross's, and white-fronted geese have just returned from the central valley of California. These geese will spend the next two months here in the Basin before continuing north to Alaska and Canada where they nest. These geese can be found foraging in agricultural fields near Midland. Numerous tundra swans (5000-10000)can be observed at Lower Klamath National Wildlife Refuge and private lands to the north of the refuge.

Upper Klamath Lake is another location to view diving ducks including bufflehead, goldeneye, scaup, ruddy duck, redhead and canvasback. Bald eagles can be found anywhere there are concentrations of waterfowl, their primary food source this time of year.

SUMMER LAKE WILDLIFE AREA

Viewing opportunities continue to improve as northward migrants return to the Wildlife Area, although weather conditions have made viewing difficult. Last week, major storm systems brought over 6 inches of snow, and cold and windy conditions have persisted through the weekend. Waterfowl species are now very apparent and have spread out across the Area. A weekly waterbird count conducted on February 23 found about 8,100 ducks (14 species), nearly 18,000 geese, and over 2,000 swans. Arctic nesting tundra swans, greater white-fronted and snow geese are staging in good numbers. Northern pintails are especially numerous at this time, making extensive use of shallow sheet water areas.

Tundra swans and white-fronted geese are widely scattered throughout the Wildlife Area, but snow geese remain rafted on Summer Lake during daylight hours and move into wetlands in the late afternoon to forage in marsh areas.

Resident Canada geese are pairing-up and dispersing to nesting territories while non-breeding birds remain in small flocks.

Sandhill cranes made their spring arrival and are becoming more apparant.

Resident and wintering raptors are scattered throughout the Area as well as on private lands along Highway 31. Northern harriers are especially numerous over marsh and hay meadow areas and both red-tailed and rough-legged hawks are commonly seen.

Prairie falcons, bald and golden eagles are frequently seen during this time of the year. Bald eagles are increasing in number following migrant flocks of waterfowl as they return north.

Passerine species (primarily sparrows) remain fairly common around the Headquarters Complex, Summer Lake Rest Area, homestead sites and shelterbreak plantings at the north end of the Area where they are attracted to tree and shrub cover found at those locations. New Spring arrivals seem to be delayed due to the harsh and inclement weather conditions of the past week.

Viewers can expect to see increased numbers and species on a regular basis over the next few weeks especially if weather conditions moderate. Be sure to check the list at Headquarters for new arrivals and unusual birds.

Wetland habitats remain in fair condition because of harsh weather and cold temperatures. A majority of deeper ponds and moving water remain open, but shallow water is freezing overnight and usually thawing by afternoon. Shorelines of most ponds are snow covered except along the waters edge. Afternoon thawing and snow melt has caused considerable flooding and high water levels throughout the Area.

Natural food sources of seeds, tubers and plant parts remain abundant and available in nearly all wetland areas. Emergent bulrushes, cattails and other sedges and rushes are lodged over due to strong winds and snow. Bird access and use will be greatly enhanced when the accumulated snow melts.

Upland sites are in poor condition due to extensive snow cover. Openings are available below trees and tall shrubs and are attracting many species of birds.

The Wildlife Viewing Loop is now open and will remain that way until next Fall. Other major dike roads (Bullgate, Windbreak and Work Road) will also be open until March 15th when they will be closed to reduce disturbance to nesting waterfowl ( primarily Canada geese) and northward migrants.

Viewer are urged to use caution when driving roads as strong winds are causing considerable drifting of blown snow.

Secondary and minor dikes will remain closed to motor vehicle traffic and cross country travel by motor vehicles or ATV's is prohibited.

Non-motorized access and viewing opportunities are available across the entire Area at this time.

Camping is permitted at four sites on the wildlife area.

For additional information on viewing opportunities please contact the Wildlife Area at phone (541) 943-3152, fax (541) 943-3204, or email at odfwslwa@gooselake.com.

NORTHEAST ZONE

FISHING

IMNAHA RIVER: Steelhead angling success has picked up recently. For the period from Feb. 23-25, anglers checked averaged 5.8 hours per fish. Flows in the range from 250 to 500 cfs generally offer best conditions for angler success. You can check Imnaha River flows online at http://waterdata.usgs.gov/or/nwis/uv?site_no=13292000

JOHN DAY RIVER: Steelhead angling in the lower reaches of the river has tapered off as fish have moved upstream. Success in the Mainstem John Day River above Service Creek and in the North and Middle forks up to the Highway 395 deadlines should increase as the weather warms and water temperatures increase. Streamflow at the time this report was filed measured2,030 cfs at Service Creek which is a good level for steelhead angling. Stream flow levels are available from the Service Creek gauging station at http://waterdata.usgs.gov/or/nwis/uv?14046500.

LOWER GRANDE RONDE RIVER: Flows remain a bit high at around 3,000 cfs, but the few anglers checked last week had good success, 3.8 hrs per fish. Angling success should improve somewhat if flow continues to recede, but many fish bound for Wallowa system hatcheries are already upstream. Flows between 800 and 2000 cfs generally offer best fishing conditions. Check the flow at http://waterdata.usgs.gov/or/nwis/uv/?site_no=13333000&PARAmeter_cd=00065,00060

MARR POND: Was stocked recently with a small group of trout and a few early surplus steelhead, angling prospects are good.

MCKAY RESERVOIR: The reservoir opens to angling on March 1. The water level is now at 59% of capacity, close to normal for this time of year. The North boat ramp is usable.

WALLOWA RIVER: Steelhead angling success continues to improve on the Wallowa River. Creel data from Feb. 22 and 24 indicated catch rates of 5.2 hours per fish. ODFW expects continued good angling success as long as river conditions remain favorable.

UMATILLA RIVER: Angling success for steelhead was good over the past week with the creel census reporting a catch rate of 4.8 hours per fish. Higher flows last week brought in a fair push of new fish. The total steelhead return at Three Mile Dam through Feb. 22 is 2,573. River flow is in the 600 to 900 cfs range and dropping slowly. Water color is good. Best angling conditions exist when flows are between 400 and 800 cfs. Angling success for steelhead should be good in the coming week. The best angling should be in the reach from Barnhart to Pendleton. For up-to-date flow information, visit the following website: www.usbr.gov/pn/hydromet/umatilla/index.html. No fish are being hauled upstream

WALLA WALLA RIVER

WALLA WALLA RIVER: A few Steelhead are now entering the Oregon portion of the river. Water conditions are good.

HUNTING

GRANT DISTRICT

COUGAR: Harvested cougars are required to be checked into an ODFW field office within 10 days of the hunt.

BAKER DISTRICT

General Conditions: Colder winter temperatures have subsided. Dry weather persists across the district with little snow cover. Green up has begun at lower elevations.

COUGARS: Cougar numbers remain at high levels. With the absence of fresh snow cougar hunting is best accomplished with the use of calls and patience.

COYOTES: Coyote numbers remain relatively high and calling and trapping should be good. Be sure to ask permission to hunt or trap on private properties.

UMATILLA/PENDLETON DISTRICT

COUGAR: Cougars are well distributed in forested areas of the Walla Walla, Mt. Emily, and Ukiah units. Hunters will have best success by finding a fresh naturally made kill and sitting on it, or by using predator calls. Some success has come from following tracks until the cougar is located. Tracking conditions will improve with snows forecast for the end of November and December.

COYOTE: Coyotes are numerous throughout the District and hunters should have good success calling. Remember to ask permission before hunting on private lands.

WALLOWA DISTRICT

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

COYOTE: Good numbers of coyotes can be found throughout Wallowa County. Calling is most successful in areas of reduced human activity.

ROAD CONDITIONS: Many roads at elevations above 4500 feet may not be accessible with standard vehicles due to deep snow. Roads plowed for logging still provide some access, but will have log truck traffic. Noregaard, Whiskey Creek, and Shamrock travel management areas are in effect through May 31.

VIEWING

Bald eagles can be seen along the South Columbia River basin wildlife management areas.

WALLOWA DISTRICT: Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep, elk, and mule deer can be observed at the Wenaha Wildlife Area, Troy, Oregon. Eden Bench provides a good opportunity to view deer and elk, while bighorn sheep are often observed in rim rocks above the Grande Ronde River. Bald eagles are common along the Grande Ronde River near Troy, and along the Wallowa River from Minam to Joseph.

BRIDGE CREEK WILDLIFE AREA: Good elk viewing opportunities at the Bridge Creek Wildlife Area in Pendleton.

SNAKE RIVER ZONE

FISHING

No new report this week; last week's report follows.

BROWNLEE RESERVOIR: Fishing has been very slow for all species. What fish are biting are deep. Some ice has been on the reservoir in the Powder river Arm. The reservoir is fairly stable at 13 feet below normal. Call Idaho Power Company's recording at 1-800-422-3143 to get information on access at recreational sites or visit www.idahopower.com under the "Rivers and Recreation" heading. For reservoir level information, visit http://www.nwd-wc.usace.army.mil/perl/dataquery.pl?k=brownlee

OXBOW RESERVOIR: Fishing is slow.

HELLS CANYON RESERVOIR: Fishing is slow. Approximately 1000 hatchery steelhead have been released into the reservoir for angling. These steelhead are considered trout in the regulations for Hell's Canyon Reservoir and above, and anglers may take one per day.

SNAKE RIVER (Below Hells Canyon Dam): Steelhead fishing has been good below Hell's Canyon Dam.

COLUMBIA RIVER ZONE

Please consult the 2007 Oregon Sport Fishing Regulation pamphlet for further information regarding the Columbia River Zone.

Salmon, Steelhead, and Shad: The following regulations are now in effect for the mainstem Columbia River from Buoy 10 upstream to the Oregon/Washington border above McNary Dam:

BUOY 10 UPSTREAM TO THE I-5 BRIDGE: Effective January 1 through April 15, this section of the Columbia River is open to the retention of adipose fin-clipped spring Chinook, adipose fin-clipped steelhead and shad. The daily bag limit is two adult salmon (Chinook > 24 inches) or steelhead and five jacks.

I-5 BRIDGE UPSTREAM TO BONNEVILLE DAM: Effective January 1-March 31, this section of the Columbia River is open to the retention of adipose fin-clipped steelhead and shad. The daily bag limit is two adipose fin-clipped steelhead.

BONNEVILLE DAM UPSTREAM TO THE OREGON/WASHINGTON BORDER ABOVE MCNARY DAM: Effective January 25 through March 15, 2007 this section of the Columbia River is open to the retention of adipose fin-clipped steelhead. The daily bag limit is two adipose fin-clipped steelhead. Effective March 16 through April 30, 2007 the retention of adipose fin-clipped spring chinook, adipose fin-clipped steelhead and shad will be allowed from the Tower Island powerlines (located approximately 6 miles downstream of The Dalles Dam) upstream to McNary Dam plus the Oregon bank between Bonneville Dam and Tower Island.

Salmonid effort was low this past weekend due to poor weather conditions and low water visibility. Bank anglers are catching a few salmon and steelhead from the beaches.

Portland to Longview Boats: Weekend checking showed no catch reported for five boats (incomplete trips).

Portland to Longview Bank: Weekend checking showed two adipose fin-clipped steelhead kept, plus three unclipped steelhead released for 63 bank rods (incomplete trips).

Estuary Boats: No report.

The Dalles Pool: No report.

Sturgeon:

BUOY 10 UPSTREAM TO WAUNA POWERLINES: This section of the Columbia is currently open to the retention of sturgeon seven days per week. The daily limit is one sturgeon between 42 and 60 inches. The retention of green sturgeon is prohibited.

The following modifications were adopted for the 2007 mainstem Columbia River sturgeon fishery from Wauna powerlines (River Mile 40) downstream to the mouth at Buoy 10, including Youngs Bay and all adjacent Washington tributaries. The modifications include:

* Allow the retention of sturgeon seven days per week during Monday January 1 through Monday April 30, 2007 with a 42-inch minimum size limit.

* Prohibit the retention of sturgeon seven days per week during Tuesday May 1, 2007 through Friday May 11, 2007.

* Allow the retention of sturgeon seven days per week during Saturday May 12, 2007 through Wednesday July 4, 2007 with a 45-inch minimum size limit in effect.

* Prohibit the retention of sturgeon seven days per week during Thursday July 5, 2007 through Sunday December 31, 2007.

* Catch and release of sturgeon may continue during retention closures.

WAUNA POWERLINES UPSTREAM TO BONNEVILLE DAM: Effective Thursday February 1-July 31, this section of the Columbia River is open to the retention of sturgeon on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays with a daily bag limit of one sturgeon between 42 and 60 inches in length and an annual limit of five fish. The retention of green sturgeon is prohibited. Catch and release of sturgeon is allowed on non-retention days.

The following modifications were adopted for the 2007 mainstem Columbia River Sturgeon fishery from the Wauna powerlines (River Mile 40) upstream to Bonneville Dam, including all adjacent Washington tributaries and the Willamette River downstream of Willamette Falls (including Multnomah Channel). The modifications include:

* Allow the retention of sturgeon four days per week on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday and prohibit the retention of sturgeon three days per week on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday beginning Thursday February 1, 2007 through Tuesday July 31, 2007.

* Prohibit the retention of sturgeon seven days per week during Wednesday August 1-Monday September 30, 2007.

* Allow the retention of sturgeon four days per week on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday and prohibit the retention of sturgeon three days per week on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday beginning Monday October 1, 2007 through Monday December 31, 2007.

* Catch and release of sturgeon may continue during sturgeon retention closures.

BONNEVILLE DAM UPSTREAM TO MCNARY DAM: In Bonneville, The Dalles, and John Day pools, the retention of sturgeon is currently allowed seven days per week. The daily limit is one sturgeon between 42 and 60 inches from Bonneville upstream to The Dalles Dam and one sturgeon between 48 and 60 inches between The Dalles Dam and McNary Dam. Pool specific catch guidelines have not been established, but will be determined in the near future.

Sturgeon catch and effort was low this past weekend with one legal white sturgeon caught in the Longview area.

Gorge Bank: Weekly checking showed no catch for one bank rod (incomplete trips).

Gorge Boats: No report.

Portland to Longview Boats: Weekend checking showed one legal white sturgeon kept, plus 19 sublegal sturgeon released for 18 boats (incomplete trips).

Portland to Longview Bank: Weekend checking showed one sublegal released for four bank rods (incomplete trips).

Bonneville Pool: Weekly checking showed two sublegal sturgeon released for 13 bank rods; and one sublegal released for two boats.

The Dalles Pool: Weekly checking showed no catch for 19 bank rods; and no catch for one boat.

John Day Pool: No report.

Walleye

The Dalles Pool: Weekly checking showed no catch for one bank angler; and two walleye kept for two boats.

Bonneville Pool: Weekly checking showed one walleye kept, plus two walleye released for two boats.

MARINE ZONE

FISHING

Crabbing in bays and estuaries is poor to fair. Some crabbers have had luck setting their gear higher in the estuary than normal. For sport crabbers the minimum size for Dungeness crab is 5 ¾ inches measured in a straight line across the back immediately in front of, but not including, the points. For a photograph and diagram see page 93 of the Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations booklet.

Angler activity has been limited due to poor weather and ocean conditions. Fishing for rockfish and lingcod along the coast is expected to be good when conditions improve. Lingcod and cabezon move inshore to mate and lay eggs this time of year. Anglers may find success fishing from jetties for these species. Spring is also the time that some estuaries see an influx of surfperch that come in to release their young. The marine daily bag limit for 2007 is six fish (including rockfish, greenling, cabezon and other marine species) and two lingcod and 15 surfperch. New this year, the daily limit for flatfish (flounders, soles, sanddabs, turbots and halibuts except Pacific halibut) is 25. Canary rockfish and yelloweye rockfish may not be retained. For illustrations and descriptions of these species see page 98 of the Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations booklet or download the Red Rockfish Identification Guide at http://www.dfw.state.or.us/MRP/regulations/sport_fishing. The minimum length for lingcod is 22 inches, for cabezon it is 16 inches and for greenling it is 10 inches. For complete regulations and the Marine Sport Fishing Supplement, please see http://www.dfw.state.or.us/resources/fishing/

The entire Oregon coast is open for the harvest of razor clams. There are some low tide series in March that should allow good clamming opportunities. The daily limit for razor clams is the first 15 taken regardless of size or condition. For more information on Oregon's razor clams, including tips on how to dig razor clams, visit http://www.dfw.state.or.us/MRP/shellfish/razorclams. Sport harvest of mussels and bay clams is open coastwide also. A shellfish license is required for taking all shellfish.

For information on domoic acid visit the Oregon Department of Agriculture website at http://www.oregon.gov/ODA/FSD/shellfish_status.shtml or call their shellfish hotline at 503-986-4728 or 1-800-448-2474.

Recreational salmon fishing in the ocean is closed.

VIEWING

YAQUINA HEAD OUTSTANDING NATURAL AREA Accessible tide pools reveal their secrets at low tide. See anemones, hermit crabs, sea urchins, small fish, jelly fish, sea stars, barnacles and more. Look for harbor seals and sea lions.