The Oregon Recreation Report (fishing, hunting, viewing), updated Tuesday, Feb. 1, by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife:

WILLAMETTE ZONE

FISHING

STOCKING SCHEDULE: South Willamette Watershed District: ODFW will stock Detroit Reservoir, Freeway Lake East, Hills Creek, Leaburg Lake, McKenzie (below Leaburg Lake) and Salt Creek with Rainbow Trout the week of April 30. Detroit Reservoir will receive 10,000 legal size trout. In the North Willamette Watershed Bethany Pond, Commonwealth Lake, Dorman Pond, Henry Hagg Lake, Mt. Hood Pond, Roslyn Lake Silver Creek Reservoir, Sunnyside Park Pond, Timber Linn Lake and Waverly Lake will be stocked the week of April 30.

FISHING EVENTS: In the North Willamette Watershed, ODFW region staff is hosting a youth angling event Saturday, May 5 at Sheridan Pond, near Sheridan Oregon from 9:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The event is free to the public. ODFW Angler Education instructors will be on hand to assist young anglers. All the supplies will be provided including rods, reels and bait. And make sure your young angler enters the contest at the check-in station to win a free rod and reel.

Winter steelhead are still passing through the Willamette Falls fishway but the daily numbers are relatively low, which is to be expected this time of year. The total for winter steelhead was 4,692 through April 24. The summer-run steelhead counted through April 24 total 799 that have moved past the falls. Water conditions in the mainstem Willamette and in both forks of the Santiam are good, but pressure remains relatively light. Angling effort is predominantly targeting Chinook as the peak salmon season is upon us. So far this season 862 spring Chinook have passed the fish ladder. The North Santiam remains stable and in good condition. Chinook numbers at the falls are increasing and pressure in the lower Santiam has been picking up as Chinook start to move into the Santiam system.

EE WILSON and JUNCTION CITY PONDS: ODFW stocked the week of April 9 with legal, larger and trophy size trout.

CLACKAMAS RIVER: Steelhead angling has been fair to slow in most of the river. Chinook fishing has also remained slow, due likely to the continuing cold water temperatures. It's also somewhat early for springers to be in the Clackamas in good numbers. The river has dropped just a bit in the past week. Monday's flows were at 2,680 cfs (12.50') and the color was very good but the water is still cold at 48°.

Bank anglers can find access to the river in the Gladstone/Cross Park area, at Carver near the mouth of Clear Creek, along Clackamas River Rd, at Barton Park, at Bonnie Lure Park, at McIver Park near Dog Creek, and from the McIver Park boat ramp on up to River Mill Dam.

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

COLUMBIA RIVER: From the Dalles Dam to the John Day Dam, sturgeon retention will close at midnight, Wednesday, March 28 effective through the end of the year. Catch-and-release angling for sturgeon in this stretch of the Columbia is allowed throughout the remainder of the year, except during May 1 through July 31, when sturgeon angling is prohibited from the west end of the grain silo located near Rufus upstream to John Day Dam, to protect oversize spawning sturgeon. Catch-and-release sturgeon angling in this sanctuary area re-opens August 1.

DETROIT, FOSTER, AND GREEN PETER RESERVOIRS have all been stocked with trout this spring and have been producing fair to good catches. Detroit is scheduled for another stocking the week of April 30. Consistent success for kokanee at Green Peter has not yet materialized, but fish are available along with some larger landlocked Chinook.

DORENA RESERVOIR was stocked the week of April 9 with 6,300 rainbow trout.

EAGLE CREEK: Angling effort is very low and the catch rate has slowed considerably as the winter run comes to close. The creek was running at moderate flows and clear over the weekend. Anglers should keep in mind that water conditions on Eagle Creek can play an important part in deciding the type and color of gear to choose. Be prepared with both bright and subtle colors of jigs or spinners. Anglers may also have success with sand shrimp or small egg clusters and yarn.

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

HENRY HAGG LAKE: Will be stocked the week of April 30. Trout fishing has been fair. Anglers have seen better catches along the banks than from boat. Bass fishing has been doing fairly well. Anglers may have success using white or yellow power bait for trout and night crawlers for bass.

SUNNYSIDE POND near Foster, and ROARING RIVER PARK POND, TIMBER LINN LAKE, AND WAVERLY LAKE in the Albany area are scheduled to be stocked the week of April 30. Valley ponds can also be fished for bass and other warmwater game fish species as the water temperatures are warming up.

SANDY RIVER: There were a few summer steelhead caught in recent days but angling for winters has been slow. There continue to be fair numbers of wild winter steelhead caught just below Marmot Dam. Spring chinook have yet to show in good numbers in the lower Sandy but the cold water is delaying that fishery. The river is also getting fairly low and needs a good spring rain. The conditions on Monday showed flows at 1,890 cfs (9.41') and the water was a cool 47°.

Anglers can access the river from many parks including Lewis and Clark, Dabney, Oxbow, and Dodge. Bank access is also available to the Cedar Creek area at the Sandy Hatchery. When fishing the Oxbow Park area, remember that there is no angling from a floating device upstream from a point that is 200 feet below the Oxbow Park boat ramp.

Collection/recycling receptacles for discarded or lost fishing gear can now be found along the Sandy River. Look for them near boat ramps at Lewis and Clark, Dabney, Oxbow, and Dodge parks. Any tangled fishing line or old gear can be collected and disposed of in these canisters as an effort to maintain a healthy, clean Sandy River. Please use nearby garbage cans for any other types of trash.

TIMBER LINN, FREEWAY, AND WAVERLY LAKES in the Albany area will be stocked by ODFW the week of April 30.

WALTER WIRTH LAKE AND WALLING POND were stocked with trout the week of April 23.

WILLAMETTE RIVER: Spring chinook fishing has shown some signs of improving and the river could benefit from a spring freshet. Conditions for April 30th showed flows on the Willamette at 15,900 cfs, a water temperature of 58°, and the visibility at 5.0 feet.

There have been increasing numbers of spring chinook caught throughout the Willamette with fish taken from the lower Multnomah Channel all the way up to Oregon City. Anglers are still encountering pockets of fish in the river making the hot bite move from day to day. The Sellwood/Milwaukie area is producing some fish and the Portland Harbor has been the site of some good catch days. The West Linn/Oregon City area has also had some good catches and is becoming more consistent.

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 many good reports of keeper and sublegal sturgeon in the Willamette catch this past weekend. The downtown harbor area and the Milwaukie/Oregon City area experienced good sturgeon catches for boat anglers. Bank fishing for sturgeon can be found at Meldrum Bar and at the wall in downtown Oregon City. Sturgeon angling from the bank was fair last week. Sturgeon anglers have used fresh smelt or herring as effective bait.

HUNTING

REMINDER: Controlled hunt applications are due May 15. Visit http://www.dfw.state.or.us/resources/hunting/big_game/controlled_hunts/ for 2007-08 proposed tag numbers.

BLACK BEAR: Hunters are reporting limited success for spring black bears in both the Coast and Cascades. Hunters participating in the spring black bear hunts need to be persistent and spend time scouting for fresh sign to locate active bear feeding sites. Drive, walk, or bike areas with good bear habitat and look for fresh droppings or tracks. If you find fresh sign, hunt the area thoroughly.

TURKEY: Turkeys are tough to find in the North Willamette Watershed District and those hunters with access to private lands are having the best success. Hunters should not overlook the mid-day period when hunting turkeys. Hunters heading in for a late breakfast will leave the woods free of activity and allow the birds more freedom to be out and moving.

VIEWING

WILLAMETTE VALLEY: Bald eagles are active and easily located along Multnomah Channel and the Columbia River from Portland to Westport for bird watchers who have access to a boat. Bird watchers can expect to see 8-15 eagles during a day on our local rivers. Just remember to avoid disturbing them by keeping your distance and using your binoculars for viewing.

PEREGRINE FALCONS are entering their nesting season and can be seen in the Portland area on the Freemont and St. John's bridges as well as in the South Willamette area around Rocky Top.

SAUVIE ISLAND WILDLIFE AREA (Portland): The Sauvie Island Wildlife Area is now open. The Eagles nest by Rentenaar Road has been vacated and the Eagles are rebuilding across Reeder road also outside the wildlife area. Haldeman Pond has been stocked with trout and is ready for fishermen both young and old. A parking permit is required for the Wildlife Area and can be purchased at several POS vendors. A daily permit is $3.50 and an annual permit is only $11.00.

FERN RIDGE WILDLIFE AREA (Eugene): All units are open to public use except a portion of the Fisher Butte to provide sanctuary during nesting season. Signs have been posted to clearly identify the levee boundary of the wildlife sanctuary area. Visitors are reminded that dogs are allowed but must remain on leash except during game bird hunting seasons.

E.E. WILSON WILDLIFE AREA (Monmouth): Spring shore bird migration is in full swing, with a diversity of species being observed throughout area wetlands. Both Western Canada Goose and Mallard broods have been observed on the area in the last week. More secretive species such as Bobcats and Black-tailed have been more frequently observed in the last two weeks. Osprey have returned to the angling pond with up to four being observed at the same time.

NORTHWEST ZONE

FISHING

The North Coast Watershed staff is hosting a youth angling event at Vernonia Pond near Vernonia, Oregon May 5 from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The event is free to the public. ODFW Angler Education instructors will be on hand to assist young anglers. All the supplies will be provided including rods, reels and bait. And get your young angler there early; prizes are available at a casting contest.

NORTH COAST LAKES: Sunset, Cullaby, and Lost lakes, and Vernonia Pond were stocked during the week of April 30. South, Town, Hebo, Cape Meares, Lost and Coffenbury lakes, and Loren's Pond will be stocked the week of May 14. 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 ODF at for more information.

MID COAST LAKES: No lakes will be stocked the week of April 30. Many lakes have been stocked with legal sized rainbow trout in the last two weeks. Stocking will continue through May.

ALSEA RIVER: The river is currently closed to fishing above tidewater and will reopen May 26 for cutthroat trout and steelhead fishing. Current river levels and forecasts can be found at http://www.nwrfc.noaa.gov/river/station/flowplot/flowplot.cgi?TIDO3.

NESTUCCA RIVER AND THREE RIVERS: Angling for winter steelhead has been slow to fair. There are still a few hatchery and wild winter steelhead available. Hatchery summer steelhead are showing in the catch on a regular basis, but overall fishing is slow. An early spring Chinook has been reported, but expect fishing to be slow during April. Before fishing, check river levels at http://ahps2.wrh.noaa.gov/ahps2/hydrograph.php?wfopqr

SALMON RIVER: Closed to fishing above tidewater and will reopen May 26.

SILETZ RIVER: Steelhead fishing is slow to fair. A few winter steelhead are still being picked up but the run is nearly over. Summer steelhead are starting to trickle in with fair opportunity for angling in the mid to lower river. Good numbers are anticipated to starting showing around mid to late May. Current river levels and forecasts can be found at http://www.nwrfc.noaa.gov/river/station/flowplot/flowplot.cgi?SILO3

SIUSLAW RIVER: Closed to fishing above tide water but will reopen May 26. Current river levels and forecasts can be found at http://www.nwrfc.noaa.gov/river/station/flowplot/flowplot.cgi?MPLO3.

TILLAMOOK BAY: Angling for sturgeon is fair. Sand shrimp is the preferred bait, although mud shrimp will work also. Concentrate on the channel edges on the outgoing tides for best success. Move often until you locate some fish. A few spring Chinook should be entering the bay, but expect fishing to be slow until May.

WILSON AND TRASK RIVERS: A few winter steelhead and some summer steelhead are available in the Wilson and Trask rivers. Angling has generally been slow to fair. Spring Chinook angling is generally very slow during April. Check river levels at http://ahps2.wrh.noaa.gov/ahps2/index.php?wfopqr prior to fishing.

HUNTING

REMINDER: Controlled hunt applications are due May 15. Visit http://www.dfw.state.or.us/resources/hunting/big_game/controlled_hunts/ for 2007-08 proposed tag numbers.

Youth Day, May 5, Canby Rod and Gun Club, 25011 S. Molalla Forest Rd. The Pioneer Chapter of the Oregon Hunters Association and the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife are sponsoring an event for youth ages 8-18 who are interested in learning shooting sports skills and gun safety. Cost is $5 and includes a barbeque lunch. Call Dan Allee at (503) 632-6756 to pre-register or just register at event. Parent or guardian must attend and sign a release form for minor to participate.

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

SPRING BEAR season extends through May 31 in the Wilson and Trask WMUs. Bears will be active in early April, and will be busy feeding on a variety of food sources, such as skunk cabbage, insects and the cambium (under the bark) layers of younger conifer trees. As with cougar, once bears have been known to occur in certain areas, a predator call is the best bet for getting the animals within range. As the spring progresses, bears will be found occasionally in natural and created forest openings, especially in the early morning and late evening hours. Visit http://www.dfw.state.or.us/hunting_forecast/index.asp for a complete spring bear hunting forecast.

VIEWING

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

BLACK BRANT are present in Netarts Bay during most of the year. The birds are very shy of human activity and are almost always seen in the far southwestern corner of the bay. Thus, having a good spotting scope is necessary to find and identify them.

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

THREE ARCH ROCKS NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE is a collection of several offshore rocks located near Oceanside. Not only is it home to the largest and most diverse seabird colony in Oregon, it also supports a breeding population of Steller sea lions. Even when the rocks seem relatively barren, careful observation can often reveal bald eagles and/or peregrine falcons perched on top of the rocks. A good spotting scope is very helpful for viewing.

SONGBIRDS can be heard throughout forests on the north coast during springtime. Leaf-break has started in lower elevation deciduous trees and will happen soon at higher elevations. Some of the best viewing of canopy-dwelling birds can be done now before the canopy becomes crowded with leaves. Don't forget clearcuts with snags or leave trees in them; they can host an entirely different suite of birds than older forests do.

BLACK OYSTERCATCHERS can be seen regularly at Cape Meares National Wildlife Refuge located at the state park of the same name. These unusual shorebirds make a living on rocky shores within the tidal zone. They're name is actually a misnomer as they eat mussels clinging to the black rocks, which can make them difficult to spot. It's best to look for yellow feet and/or orange bill, and eventually the rest of the bird will come into view. Good binoculars are all that's needed to find these striking birds.

SOUTHWEST ZONE

FISHING

APPLEGATE RIVER: Closed to all angling until May 26.

APPLEGATE RESERVOIR: Anglers are catching a few rainbow trout, but fishing is still slow. Boat anglers are doing much better then those on the bank. Updated boat access information is available by calling the Applegate Ranger District at 541-899-3800.

BURMA POND: Angling for stocked 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: The Chetco River is closed until the trout opener May 26th.

COOS COUNTY LAKES: Trout fishing is good in local lakes with another round of stocking coming up. The week of April 30 will see legal trout stocked in Powers Pond, Bradley, Bluebill, Eel, Empire, Saunders, Sru, and Tenmile Lakes. The Millicoma Interpretive Center youth fishing pond has been very productive for kids. Fishing equipment is available for kids to use at the Millicoma Pond. Warmwater fishing is also improving with some large bass showing up at Tenmile Lakes.

COOS RIVER BASIN: Surf perch and other marine fish are available in Coos Bay. Anglers should concentrate around rock structure or pilings. Steelhead angling above tidewater closed April 30. Trout angling in streams will open May 26.

COQUILLE RIVER BASIN: Striped bass are available in the Coquille estuary where anglers usually do better fishing after dark. The forks of the Coquille are closed to steelhead angling. Trout season opens on May 26.

DIAMOND LAKE: Diamond Lake opened for fishing on April 28th. 6,000 fish were stocked into the lake last Thursday and fish stocking will continue this week. The lake is ice-free and some fish were caught this weekend. Fishing was slow but will improve as more fish are stocked into the lake.

DUTCH HERMAN POND: The pond has been stocked with legal-sized rainbow trout, and fishing should be good.

EMIGRANT RESERVOIR: Legal-size rainbow have been stocked, but the catch rate for trout is still fairly low. Bass and panfish angling is improving as the water warms up.

EXPO POND: Fishing for stocked rainbow trout is slow; however, bass and panfish are getting more active as the weather improves.

FISH LAKE: Fish Lake has been stocked with legal-sized rainbow trout. Catch rates have been low, but should improve as the weather warms up. Information on Forest Service campgrounds is available by calling the Butte Falls Ranger District office at 541-865-2700. The Fish Lake Resort can be reached at 541-949-8500.

Howard Prairie opened last Saturday. Catch rates were low, but anglers did harvest some nice rainbow trout in the 14 to 19-inch range. The facilities at the Howard Prairie Resort and the Jackson County Parks are open. Largemouth bass and smallmouth bass are also available.

HYATT RESERVOIR: Fishing for rainbow trout was slow for last Saturday's opening, but should improve as the water warms up. Opportunities to catch quality-sized largemouth bass should improve as well. Facilities at the BLM campground as well as those at the resorts are open.

ILLINOIS RIVER: Closed to all angling until May 26.

LAKE SELMAC: Largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, and bullheads are available in the shallow water near the shore. Stocked rainbow trout are available as well; however, the catch rate has been low.

LEMOLO LAKE: LEMOLO LAKE: Trout opener for Lemolo is April 28. Fishing at Lemolo was good this weekend. Fishermen were catching limits of browns and rainbows at the lake. Fishing should remain good at the Lemolo.

LOST CREEK RESERVOIR: Fishing for stocked rainbow trout is fair. Few anglers are targeting warmwater fish at this time, but fishing for largemouth and smallmouth should be improving with the warmer weather.

MEDCO POND: Medco Pond has been stocked with legal-sized rainbow trout. Largemouth bass and panfish are available as well.

PACIFIC OCEAN & BEACHES: The nearshore Pacific halibut season opened May 1 for the central coast. The all-depth halibut dates for Cape Falcon to Humbug Mountain are May 10-12, 17-19, 24-26, 31, June 1-2, and 7-9. Bottom fishing in the ocean has been good when boats can get out. Bay angling has been good for rockfish and perch.

Ocean salmon fishing has received little effort so far due to weather conditions and the great bottom fishing that we have had. Surfperch fishing should be good now 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: Fishing for stocked rainbow trout, largemouth bass, and panfish is fair.

ROGUE RIVER, LOWER: Spring Chinook fishing continues to be slow. Water temperatures are in the high 50's, but should be cooling with the change in weather this week. The river is very clear which makes for some tough fishing. Boat anglers fishing around Elephant Rock have been averaging about a fish per 4 boats. Most anglers have been using an anchovy and spinner blade.

ROGUE RIVER, MIDDLE: Angling for winter steelhead is slow. The first few spring chinook of the season have been caught; however, angling for them remains slow as well. Flows were averaging 3,400 cubic feet per second at Grants Pass as of Monday morning. Anglers are reminded that the river is closed to all trout angling until May 26

ROGUE RIVER, UPPER: Relatively few winter steelhead and spring chinook are present in the upper Rogue River. Consequently angling effort and catch rates have been low. A total of 12,995 winter steelhead and 164 spring chinook salmon have been counted at Gold Ray Dam as of April 28. The outflows from Lost Creek Reservoir were 2,176 cubic feet per second and the outflow temperature was 49F as of Monday morning. Anglers are reminded that the river is closed to all trout angling until May 26.

SODA SPRINGS RESERVOIR: Soda Springs reservoir is open all year round for brown and rainbow trout. The road to Soda Springs dam is currently closed due to a high volume of dump trucks and heavy equipment. At this time the only access into the reservoir is at Medicine Creek bridge.

SMITH RIVER: Stripers are being caught in the Smith River estuary. Most striper fishing is done by boat in the lower ten miles of the estuary. A total of 460 winter steelhead passed through Smith River Falls for the season. Only about 20% of the winter steelhead in Smith River use the ladder, the remainder jump the falls. The steelhead run is winding down on the Smith although there still should be fresh fish to catch. Wild steelhead must be released unharmed from the Smith River. Hatchery clipped steelhead only may be retained.

SOUTH COAST LAKES AND PONDS Fishing has slowed on most area lakes. Anglers are reminded to pick up all garbage after fishing.

SOUTH COAST STREAMS: All south coast streams are closed until May 26th trout opener.

SOUTH COAST BEACHES: Perch fishing has been good. Anglers should keep an eye on surf conditions and tides before heading out. Usually the best perch fishing in on an incoming tide.

SPAULDING POND: The access road is clear, the pond has been stocked, and fishing is good for rainbow trout.

TENMILE BASIN: Steelhead fishing inTenmile and Eel Creeks closed April 30. Trout season will open May 26.

UMPQUA HIGH LAKES AND FOREBAYS: Fishing is open in Toketee Lake all year round. Fishing in the forebays below Lemolo Lake was good this weekend. Limits of brown trout were caught in the Lemolo forebays. High lake stocking has been slowed by snow and slow growth rates on hatchery fish. These lakes should get stocked as the snow melts off.

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

UMPQUA ESTUARY: Crabbing should be picking up but all reports seem to indicate that crabbing is good for everything but legals. Sturgeon fishing has been spotty, some sturgeon are being picked up in the Big Bend area. Striper fishing continues to improve, with some stripers being picked up by spring chinook fishermen. Pink fin perch fishing should really turn on in the next month.

UMPQUA RIVER MAINSTEM: Spring chinook fishing is slow; a creel checker sat at Scotts Creek ramp for much of the 17th and only checked one chinook. Some steelhead (early summers) are being picked up as well as the occasional sturgeon and stripers. The number of sled boats fishing from Elkton to Scottsburg continues to increase with each week. If water temperatures would increase and the weather would cooperate spring chinook fishing should turn on. Spring chinook anglers above Elkton remain low. Water flows are high enough to provide good access to most spring chinook hole by drift boat or sled. A few shad fishermen are out and catching the first of the shad run. Fishing will improve as river waters drop. Fishing for shad will last into August. Retention of wild steelhead will close on April 30th.

UMPQUA RIVER, NORTH: Winter steelhead numbers crossing Winchester Dam have slowed. Some early hatchery "summers" have been seen crossing and in the fishery below the dam. Chinook fishing at Amacher Park remains very slow and at this time there is very little pressure. Boat anglers need to remember to fish below the deadline, if anglers are caught fishing above the deadline they will be ticketed by OSP. The first confirmed harvest of a spring chinook has occurred in the Rock Creek area. Spring chinook fishing remains very slow, although the normal spring chinook holes are beginning to fill up with anglers. This is a good time to visit and see spring chinook and steelhead in the viewing windows at the dam. Winchester Dam counts show that 9,552 winter steelhead and 134 spring chinook have passed over the dam through April 25th.

UMPQUA RIVER, SOUTH: Wild steelhead must be released unharmed in the South Umpqua River. The South Umpqua will remain open for steelhead fishing until April 30th. Fishing around Canyonville has slowed, most fishing is occurring from Canyonville Park to Myrtle Creek. There are still hatchery steelhead coming back to Canyon Creek. The drift boat slide at Rummel bar is nearly inaccessible and requires a good four-wheel drive. Bank fishing near Canyonville remains slow but there are fish to be caught as hatchery steelhead continue to keg up waiting for flows to increase allowing fish access into Canyon Creek. Hatchery clipped steelhead only may be retained.

WILLOW LAKE: Willow Lake has been stocked with legal-sized rainbow trout and anglers targeting them are having fair success. Angling for bass and other warmwater fish is improving as the water warms up. The store and main campground are now open.

WINCHESTER BAY: Crabbing has been slow but should improve as smaller crabs grow to legal size. Sturgeon fishing has also been slow but should improve as more food enters the estuary.

SHELLFISH

SHELLFISH: The entire Oregon coast is now open for razor clams, bay clams, and mussels. ALWAYS CHECK FOR HEALTH ADVISORIES by calling the Oregon Department of Agriculture's Shellfish line at 1-800-448-2474 for updates. For more information about razor clams and current status of particular areas see the ODFW razor clam web page at http://www.dfw.state.or.us/MRP/shellfish/razorclams

Crabbing had been good in the ocean but effort has dropped lately due to the wind. Bay crabbing is on the slow side. 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

REMINDER: Controlled hunt applications are due May 15. Visit http://www.dfw.state.or.us/resources/hunting/big_game/controlled_hunts/ for 2007-08 proposed tag numbers.

Spring bear hunting continues through May 31. For a complete hunting forecast, visit http://www.dfw.state.or.us/hunting_forecast/index.asp

General spring turkey hunting season continues through May 31. For a complete forecast visit http://www.dfw.state.or.us/RR/hunting_forecast/turkey.asp

COOS COUNTY

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

TURKEY: Turkey populations have been on the rise in Coos County. Presently there are populations in or near all areas in the county with suitable habitat. Hunters should concentrate their efforts near agricultural lands. Remember ask first for permission to hunt.

SPRING BEAR SEASON: Hunters are reporting seeing bears on south slopes in grassy areas. Hunting should improve as the warmer weather comes on and bears become more active.

CURRY, JACKSON AND JOSEPHINE COUNTIES

COUGARS: Cougar season is expected to be average this year. Cougar tracks maybe easily located along ridge lines, aggressive predator calling have resulted in successful hunting. Remember it is unlawful to take spotted kittens or females with spotted kittens.

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

BEAR: Spring bear hunting has been average to slow in success within the first few weeks of the season due to the persistent rains. As clear warmer days approach success should pickup. Bears will be found on open hill sides taken advantage of new green grasses. Areas where fires have gone through in the past several years provide great grass green up. Besides looking in grassy openings look in draws where tracks can be found along streams and brushy areas leading to open forage areas. There are plenty of public lands available for hunting. Remember that it is unlawful to take cubs less than one year old or sows with cubs less than one year old.

TURKEY: Weather has slowed success but turkey numbers remain high. Scouting with the use of locator calls will help in locating flocks and roosting areas. Turkeys can be found in oak savannah habitat with open grassy clearing, where much of this habitat is found on lower elevation private lands and BLM public lands. A growing population is being found in thinned out areas of conifer forest habitats that have interspersed grassy clearings. The first few weeks will receive heavy pressure from hunters try using a variety of different calls during your set up.

DOUGLAS COUNTY

COUGAR-Cougars are abundant throughout with indicators pointing to stable or increasing numbers.

SPRING BEAR: The SW Oregon spring bear controlled hunt continues through May 31. Bear numbers are good with the highest numbers at lower elevations in the coast range with lower numbers elsewhere in the coast range and Cascades. Hunters can focus on open meadows early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Successful bear hunters are reminded to turn in a bear tooth for the ongoing bear population study in Southwest Oregon.

TURKEY- Spring turkey season continues through May 31. Several large gobblers have been taken in the Roseburg and Tiller areas since the season opened. Hunters can expect the spring gobbler season to be above average due to increasing birds throughout the county. Most hen turkeys are nesting so the gobblers are more receptive to calls. In general, most turkeys are found on or adjacent to low-mid elevation private lands associated with oak savannah habitat. Hunters are reminded to obtain permission before hunting on private lands.

VIEWING

COOS COUNTY

As spring concludes and summer comes on big game animals will becomes more difficult to observe because they will be giving birth to their young. But patient observers can sometimes view these newborns. Watch forest clearings where the mothers will be feeding.

Viewing opportunities are good at Dean Creek Elk Viewing Area located east of Reedsport on Hwy. 38.

BLACK BEARS are elusive animals but those wishing to see them may have some luck using optics to watch forest openings. Often bears will move into slides on hill sides where grass is beginning to green up.

A good viewing opportunity available now that is unique to the coast is the viewing of SEADUCKS in the bays. Seaducks are scoters, eiders, oldsquaw harlequin ducks and others. These species are numerous along the Oregon coast now and they are in prime plumage. Look for these birds in various places in the bays or along the coast. Depending on the species in question and what they are feeding on at the time these birds could be found in many locations. Also, good numbers of brant are showing up in local bays. They stop along the Oregon coast and other places to feed on their northward migration.

Other migrants to be aware of are SHOREBIRDS. Various species of sand pipers, plovers and other shore birds are appearing in bays, wetlands and along beaches as they migrate north. These birds can be very entertaining to watch as they dart around feeding.

DOUGLAS COUNTY

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

SHOREBIRDS, SONGBIRDS & WATERFOWL: Plat I Reservoir in Sutherlin is a good place to view various species of songbirds, shorebirds, ducks and geese. Purple martins, our largest swallow in North America, have returned from their wintering areas in South America, and can be seen daily around the reservoir.

FISH SPAWNING -Winter Steelhead can be observed spawning in the wild 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 and Spring Chinook migrating upstream passing through Winchester dam fish ladder on the N. Umpqua River which is open to the public. To view the migrating Steelhead go to exit 129 on I-5, proceed southeast on 99 to the fish ladder on the north side of the river.

ROGUE WATERSHED

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

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

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

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

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

CENTRAL ZONE

FISHING

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

ANTELOPE FLAT RESERVOIR: Angling for 14-18 inch carryover rainbow trout should be fair to good. Check with Ochoco National Forest 541-416-6500 for current conditions.

BIG LAVA LAKE: : Big Lava Lake anglers were treated to some nice catches of rainbow trout ranging in length from 12 inches up to 18 inches. As is most often case there were indeed those who returned to shore wondering as to the whereabouts of the fish but on the whole most anglers had something to take home or otherwise show for there efforts. Big Lava Lake is now stocked in part with the recently developed Crane Prairie Redband Trout hatchery strain of fish. This locally derived hatchery trout stock seems appears to performing well in terms of its growth characteristics and its return to the angler.

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

CRANE PRAIRIE RESERVOIR: The Crane Prairie Reservoir fishery continued its improving trend though the weekend still saw some mixed results for anglers. A number of anglers returned to shore empty handed while others had good success catching rainbow trout, brook trout and even a few kokanee. Water conditions seem to be a little cool yet for largemouth bass fishing. The rainbow trout population is in good shape and the opportunities for brook trout are excellent. The kokanee population has increased over previous years and offers opportunity we haven't seen in quite a while.

CRESCENT LAKE: Kokanee angling was fairly good over the past week with several nice lake trout reportedly caught as well. April is typically a good month to target brown trout, lake trout and kokanee. Kokanee anglers have had success both jigging and trolling. Kokanee still are holding in deeper water. Trolling shoreline areas in 15 feet of water with a variety of lures has been a successful technique for browns over the few weeks.

CROOKED RIVER BELOW BOWMAN DAM: Stream flows are predicted to be approximately 500 CFS by the weekend. Recent rains and snowmelt have resulted in increased releases from the dam. Angling conditions are marginal until flows are reduced.

CULTUS LAKE: Anglers were out on the lake over the weekend though there are no reports from anglers on their success. Spring is the best time to fish for lake trout at Cultus Lake

DAVIS LAKE: Reports of fly anglers catching a few largemouth bass. No reports on the redband trout catch.

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

Lake Billy Chinook to Benham Falls: No anglers were observed on the river as basis for a report. This is a good time to fish the middle Deschutes for brown trout and rainbow trout.

EAST LAKE: As of Monday the lake was still about 90 percent ice covered. There is access to open water via the Hotsprings boat ramp.

ELK LAKE: Elk Lake is not yet accessible.

FALL RIVER: Observations indicate success for rainbow trout was poor during the course of the past week.

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

HAYSTACK RESERVOIR: Opportunities for 12-18 inch rainbow and brown trout are fair to good. Approximately 100 rainbow trout brood fish will be released this week.

HOSMER LAKE: Hosmer Lake is not yet accessible.

LAKE BILLY CHINOOK: Bull trout angling was fair last week with most fish caught early in the morning or in the evening. Cove Palisades State Park is currently conducting repairs and improvements to the boat ramp on the Crooked River Arm. The only boat ramps open for launching are the upper ramp on the Deschutes Arm and Perry South on the Metolius Arm. This is scheduled to be in effect until May 15. Contact the State Park for current information at 541-546-3412

LITTLE LAVA LAKE Opening weekend anglers reported that Fishing on Little Lava Lake was relatively slow. There is though good number of raninbow trout in Little Lava Lake ranging from 12 to 19 inches in length. Anglers are encouraged to work the south end of the lake and the lava bed shoreline areas along the east side of the lake.

METOLIUS RIVER: No anglers were interviewed over the weekend.

NORTH TWIN: Anglers reported fair success at North Twin. Late winter/early spring at North Twin Lake provides a good opportunity for rainbow trout which carried over from the summer of 2006.

OCHOCO RESERVOIR: Opportunities for 12-16 inch rainbow trout are fair to good. Boat anglers generally target the upper end of the reservoir near the mouths of Mill and Ochoco Creeks this time of year. Bullhead angling at the east end of the reservoir should be excellent

ODELL LAKE: A number of Odell Lake anglers were back on shore drinking coffee by 9 am having taken their limit of 25 kokanee. Sunday on Odell was not quite as productive as Saturday though it still produced stringers 10 - 15 kokanee and many satisfied fisherman by days end. Kokanee are running 10 to 12 inches in length. Several very nice lake trout were also reported to have been caught. Anglers should be on the lake at daylight for best results.

PAULINA LAKE: As of Monday the lake was 80 percent ice free. A number of anglers were able to fish some areas of open water over the weekend. They reported catching kokanee in the 10 inch size range and a number of smaller brown trout. Please check with Paulina Lake Lodge for an up-to date status of the ice conditions.

PINE HOLLOW: ODFW will stock in mid-March.

PRINEVILLE RESERVOIR: Opportunities for 12-16 inch rainbow trout are fair to good. Bullhead angling in the upper end of the reservoir should be excellent. The northside access road is open.

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

SOUTH TWIN: Saturday on South Twin Lake saw more than a few boats returning to shore before 9 am with anglers having caught their limit for the day. More than a few 2 ½ pound rainbow trout were caught along with one noteworthy 4 1/2 pound rainbow trout and many 12 - 14 inch fish. Anglers were seen catching fish over the course of both Saturday and Sunday and seemed more than happy with the catch and weather. 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 weekend reports from anglers. Springtime at Suttle Lake provides good opportunity for brown trout and kokanee.

WICKIUP RESERVOIR: Wickiup Reservoir anglers reported reeling in some nice brown trout and kokanee. It was notable that one angler took home as part of his bag two 20 inch kokanee. IN addition to brown trout and kokanee rainbow trout and largemouth bass are also available for the angler

WALTON LAKE: Opportunities for carryover rainbow trout up to 16 inches should be fair to good. The gate to the campground is closed and anglers will have to walk the last ¼ mile to the lake.

HUNTING

REMINDER: Controlled hunt applications are due May 15. Visit http://www.dfw.state.or.us/resources/hunting/big_game/controlled_hunts/ for 2007-08 proposed tag numbers.

Controlled spring bear hunting continues through May 31. For a complete hunting forecast, visit http://www.dfw.state.or.us/hunting_forecast/index.asp

General spring turkey hunting continues through May 31. For a complete forecast visit http://www.dfw.state.or.us/RR/hunting_forecast/turkey.asp Hunters in the Hoold Unit will have better access to the mid elevations due to the lack of snow in those areas.

OCHOCO DISTRICT

GENERAL: Be prepared for variable weather conditions. Snow accumulations are disappearing; however some persistent drifts remain above 4000 feet. Off road motorized travel should not be attempted without proper equipment and checking with local BLM and Forest Service officials regarding motorized access regulations.

TURKEY: Birds have moved from wintering areas to higher elevations, including national forest lands on Lookout Mountain and Paulina Ranger Districts. Areas to consider include Bear and Trout Creeks, and along the southern boundary of the Paulina Ranger District from N. Fork Crooked River to the breaks of the S. Fork John Day River.

COUGAR: Cougar are reported regularly in the Maury, Ochoco, and Grizzly units, at all elevations and habitat types. Deer, elk, and pronghorn have moved off of wintering areas and are scattered at higher elevations across transition and summer ranges. Cougar will be following them and be harder to find as big game move on to the more expansive summering areas on the Ochoco National Forest.

GROUND SQUIRRELS: Squirrels are active in agricultural fields and pastures. Best opportunities are on private lands east of Prineville along the Crooked River between Paulina and Post. These are private lands where permission from landowners is necessary before hunting.

VIEWING

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

LOWER DESCHUTES WILDLIFE AREA: Visitors to this area can see California bighorn sheep on a regular basis upstream of Harris Canyon (RM 12). Access will be by boat or bicycle. Sheep can also be seen on the Deschutes River down the Mack's Canyon Road down stream of Shearer's Falls with a major lambing grounds at Beavertail.

SOUTHEAST ZONE

FISHING

Contact Klamath Watershed Office (541) 883-5732 or the Hines Office (541) 573-6553 for more information on fishing opportunities. ODFW will begin stocking trout in many of the lakes and reservoirs in the coming weeks. Please see this website for a stocking schedule for the Klamath-Malheur watersheds http://www.dfw.state.or.us/ODFWhtml/InfoCntrFish/trout_stocking_sched/2007/southeast/Klamath_Malhuer.htmlANA RESERVOIR: Angling for rainbow trout has been fair. Most angling occurs from the bank using bait. Angling for hybrid bass has been slow. The reservoir is full. Ana Reservoir will be stocked with legal and trophy rainbow trout the week of May 9.

ANA RIVER: Angling for rainbow trout has been good. Mayfly and caddisflies are hatching in good numbers in the early afternoon. Recent sampling has shown good survival of fingerlings, plenty of fish aviable over 8" in good condition. Fish are concentrated between the reservoir dam and Desert Spring Hatchery. Look for rising trout in shaded areas of the river or wait until overcast days to fish over rising fish. These fish can be very spooky so stealth is required. Bait angling is productive.

BEULAH RESERVOIR: The reservoir was 80 percent full on April 29, and inflow was 161 cfs. Fishing is slow

BIG ROCK RESERVOIR: The reservoir has dried completely in recent years, angling for last years rainbow trout is good, especially in the late afternoon. Fish seem more receptive to flies than bait. The reservoir is at half-full and declining.

BLITZEN RIVER: Fair angling for redband trout, but pay attention to fluctuating river condition. Flow fluctuated between approximately 220 and 650 cfs from April 23 through April 30.

BULLY CREEK RESERVOIR: The reservoir was 80 percent full on April 29. Angling for warmwater fish is slow.

BURNS POND: The pond was stocked with rainbow trout last week. Angling should be good.

CHICKAHOMINY RESERVOIR: Angling is fair to good for 12 to 18 inch rainbow trout, with a few larger fish reported. Fly anglers and trollers have had the best success.

BURNT RIVER: Upstream from Huntington-Richland Road Bridge opened for fishing on April 28. Legal trout will be stocked week of April 23rd in the South Fork Burnt River.

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: Access is blocked by snow but access should be available in the next few weeks.

COTTONWOOD RESERVOIR (Goose Lake Basin, Lake County): Angling is fair with increasing water temperatures and the end of spawning. The best method for fishing Cottonwood Reservoir is angling from the dam or trolling minnow imitations (rapalas, cleos, deceiver flies) from a boat. Cottonwood Reservoir is not stocked and the fish you catch are native redband trout produced in Cottonwood Creek.

DELINTMENT LAKE: No angling report. Access up Forest Service 41 road was possible by four wheel drive in late April

DEEP CREEK: Angling is fair for red band trout.

DOG LAKE: Angling is good for largemouth bass, yellow perch, and brown bullhead.

DUNCAN RESERVOIR: Angling for rainbow trout has been good. Flies replicating chironomids and water boatmen juveniles are catching trout in the late morning and afternoon. Bait near the surface and trolling lures has had some success. The Reservoir is spilling; fishing in the creek will improve but access is limited.

EAGLE CREEK and TRIBUTARIES: Opens April 28.

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

FOURMILE LAKE: Access is blocked by snow.

GERBER RESERVOIR: Yellow perch angling has been good. Lake levels are high therefore boats can be

launched. Angling for brown bullhead, largemouth bass and crappie is fair. Crappie are abundant in the

reservoir but are difficult to catch until water temperatures increase. Crappie are spread throughout the reservoir but difficult to locate. ODFW is expecting very good crappie angling in Gerber Reservoir this year. For more information on warmwater fishing in Gerber Reservoir and other Warmwater fisheries visit your local ODFW offices for warmwater fishing pamphlets.

HAINES POND: Was re-stocked with 1000 legals week of April 23rd.

HIGGINS RESERVOIR: Opens April 28th. Should provide fair angling for 10-18-inch rainbow trout. Higgins Reservoir is located on private land, and the landowner allows public access for angling but has limited it to walking access only. There is a gate approximately ¾ mile from the reservoir.

HOLBROOK RESERVOIR: The abundance of trout has been reduced by the illegal introduction of tui chub, larger trout are still available. Access to Holbrook Reservoir by the 3716 road is clear. There are a few snow drifts on the 3817 road off the 3715 but are passable with a four wheel drive vehicle. Holbrook will be stocked this week with legal and trophy rainbow trout and angling for rainbow trout should be good.

HWY 203 POND: Was re-stocked week of April 23rd.

JUNIPER LAKE: No angling report.

UPPER KLAMATH LAKE: Angling for wild redband trout has been slow. Expect angling to improve this month as water temperatures increase which will increase redband trout feeding and activity. Angling from shore using bait or lures has also been effective north of Eagle Ridge boat ramp and Howard Bay but has been slow. Trolling flies and lures near Eagle Ridge, Howard Bay and the channel between Klamath and Agency Lakes have been the prime areas for catching redband trout. Catch rates are typically one fish per ten hours of fishing.

KLAMATH RIVER: Angling is fair below Keno Dam to J.C Boyle Reservoir. River flows are currently 905 cfs below Keno Dam which is optimum flows for catching rainbow-redband trout. Expect to see blizzard hatches of caddisflies and mayflies in the afternoon or try imitations that mimic minnows (flies, cleos, rapalas, panther martins). Most rainbow-redband have completed spawning so numbers of rainbow-redband trout in the reach below Keno Dam is high. 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 black or gold spinners (Rooster tail, panther martins, blue fox). Redband rainbow trout are concentrated so covering lots of water will increase your odds of catching fish. The river section from JC Boyle Dam to JC Boyle Powerhouse is good for rainbow-redband trout 6-12 inches. River flows in this section are a constant 380 cfs. Small rooster tails and flies are the most effective method for catching rainbow- redband trout in this section. Anglers can call 1-800-547-1501 for river flow information or visit the following website http://waterdata.usgs.gov/or/nwis/current?typeflow.

KRUMBO RESERVOIR: Fair to good angling for 12 to 18 inch rainbow trout.

LAKE OF THE WOODS: The Lake is ice free. Boats can be launched at the lodge. Angling for largemouth bass, crappie, brown bullhead, smallmouth bass and brown trout is slow. Angling for yellow perch and kokanee should be fair. Lake of the Woods was stocked with legal and trophy rainbow trout just before the opening weekend of trout season on April 28 and angling for rainbow trout should be good. Contact Lake of the Woods Lodge at (1-866-201-4194) for recent angling update or visit their website at www.lakeofthewoodsresort.com.

LINK RIVER: May is a good month to catch large redband trout in Link River. Angling is currently fair. Most anglers use rapalas or minnow imitations. Access is available along the entire west side and boats can be launched at Veterans Park and motored upstream to the powerhouse. Catch rates are typically low and a good day is landing a few redband trout.

LITTLE HEART LAKE: Access is blocked by snow.

LOFTON RESERVOIR: The road to Lofton is passable; but difficult. Expect angling to be slow due to the illegal introduction of tui chub. Larger fish are still available in the lake. Lofton Reservoir will be stocked this week with legal and trophy rainbow trout and angling for rainbow trout should be good.

LONG CREEK RESERVOIR: Fishing should be good for rainbow trout.

LOST RIVER: Angling has been good for warm water game fish. A few big largemouth bass are taken each year. The boat ramp, bridge and park at Crystal Springs are closed until at least mid July. Small boats can be launched at Olene Bridge or at Big Springs in Bonanza.

LUCKY RESERVOIR: Currently reservoir is free of ice; road access is difficult with muddy conditions.

MALHEUR RIVER (Warm Springs Reservoir downstream to South Fork Malheur River): Discharge from Warm Springs Reservoir was approximately 390 cfs April 29. No angling report.

MALHEUR RIVER (from the South Fork Malheur River near Riverside, downstream to Gold Creek): Discharge from Warm Springs Reservoir was approximately 390 cfs, and discharge from Beulah Reservoir was approximately 299cfs April 29. Angling is slow.

MALHEUR RESERVOIR: Water level is down about 6 feet from full. Trout angling is fair to good.

MALHEUR RIVER, NORTH FORK: Access to the North Fork remains limited by snow. Trout angling is slow. Remember to release bull trout.

MALHEUR RIVER, MIDDLE FORK: Access to the Middle Fork remains limited by snow. Trout angling is slow. Remember to release bull trout.

MALONE RESERVOIR (LOST RIVER): Angling for yellow, brown and black bullhead is excellent. Angling for sunfish and largemouth bass is slow.

MANN LAKE: No recent angling report, but in the past month angling has been fair to good angling for 10 to 18 inch cutthroat trout. Fly anglers have had the best success.

MILLER LAKE: Access is blocked by snow.

MOON RESERVOIR: No recent angling report. Angling should be fair for rainbow trout.

MURRAY RESERVOIR: Trout fishing should be good. Was stocked week of April 23rd.

NORTH MALHEUR BLM STOCK PONDS: No angling report from any of the ponds.

NORTH POWDER PONDS 1 & 2: Both ponds were stocked in April. Fishing should be good.

OWYHEE RESERVOIR: The reservoir was 78 percent full April 29. All boat ramps are in the water. Warmwater angling is fair.

OWYHEE RIVER (Lower): Flows below the dam averaged about 250 cfs on April 29. Angling for rainbow trout and brown trout is fair.

OWYHEE RIVER (Upper): Discharge at the Rome gauge averaged approximately 530 cfs on April 29. Angling for smallmouth and channel catfish is slow.

PAIUTE RESERVOIR: Angling for rainbow trout is fair with bait. A boat is not needed to catch fish successfully on Paiute Reservoir. A few Lahontan cutthroat trout are available. The reservoir is at half full, and will progressively get lower.

PHILLIPS RESERVOIR: Legal trout were stocked week of April 23rd. Fishing has been fair for trout and perch. Trout are running 12-14 inches. Perch are 9-11 inches. Water is rising slowly and is at 69 percent.

PILCHER RESERVOIR: Campground is open. Fishing is Fair-slow. Water level is at 60 percent.

PINE CREEK: Opens April 28 for trout fishing upstream of Oxbow bridge in Baker County.

POLE CREEK RESERVOIR: The reservoir is approximately 15 feet or more below full pool. Angling is fair.

POWDER RIVER: Opens April 28, upstream from Huntington-Richland Road Bridge. Use of bait allowed

SEVENMILE CREEK: Access might be difficult due to snow. 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: Fishing has been fair for legal sized trout. Road is open with some muddy spots. The reservoir is near full and turbid.

SID LUCE RESERVOIR: SID LUCE RESERVOIR: Access to the reservoir is difficult and not recommended at this time due to deep mud.

SNAKE RIVER: Flow was 7,416 cfs near Nyssa and approximately 11,279 cfs near Weiser on April 29. Angling for catfish is fair and smallmouth bass is slow.

SOUTH MALHEUR BLM STOCK PONDS: No angling report from any of the ponds.

SPAULDING RESERVOIR: Fishing has been very good for rainbow trout up to 18". Bait fishing or fly fishing from shore can be effective. The reservoir is low and will most likely dry up this summer.

SPRAGUE RIVER: Angling is fair for redband trout in the mainstem Sprague. Angling is slow for brown bullhead and largemouth bass. Angling is fair 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: Angling with bait or flies near the dam is good for rainbow trout. The reservoir will most likely go dry this summer.

SYCAN RIVER: Angling is slow for redband, brook and brown trout. Flows are low enough for successful angling.

THOMPSON RESERVOIR: Access to both boat ramps is open. Angling for largemouth bass is fair but will

be getting better as water temperatures warm. Angling for trophy rainbow trout is improving. The best location to fish for bass is near the shore on both sides near the dam. Angling for rainbow trout is best near the dam and along the rocky northeast bank. Thompson Reservoir will be stocked with legal and trophy rainbow trout the week of May 9

TOPSY RESERVOIR: Angling for warmwater fish is fair. Look for largemouth bass in the shallow backwater areas near J.C. Boyle Dam or near the Klamath River. Angling from a boat is more productive for largemouth bass and crappie than angling from shore. Angling with bait from shore can be productive for catching brown bullhead. Angling for sunfish will improve with increased water temperatures. Sunfish can be caught from shore using small bait under bobbers or small flies.

THIEF VALLEY RESERVOIR: Fishing is very good and fish are large. Reservoir level has dropped to 92 percent.

UNITY RESERVOIR: Reservoir is full. Fishing is fair-slow.

UPPER WILLIAMSON RIVER: Angling is slow but flows are low enough for successful angling. 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: The reservoir was 65 percent full April 29. Inflow at the Drewsey gauge averaged 114 on April 29. Angling is slow.

WARNER LAKES (Hart, Crump, Flagstaff, etc.): Angling for crappie is slow. Crappie angling should be very good later this year.

WILLOW VALLEY RESERVOIR: Angling for largemouth bass has been 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. Yellow perch are very abundant but are typically small (6 inches). Lahontan cutthroat are available but rare in the catch. The most effective way to fish Willow Valley is from boat but largemouth bass can be captured at the boat ramp and all along the dam.

WOOD RIVER AND TRIBUTARIES: Angling is slow for redband trout and brown trout. Flows are high and water temperatures are cold reducing catch rates

WOLF CREEK RESERVOIR: Water level is at 50 percent and rising. Fishing is good.

YELLOWJACKET LAKE: Fair to good angling for 10 to 14 inch rainbow trout. No reports on what gear is most successful.

HUNTING

REMINDER: Controlled hunt applications are due May 15. Visit http://www.dfw.state.or.us/resources/hunting/big_game/controlled_hunts/ for 2007-08 proposed tag numbers.

Spring bear hunting continues through May 31. For a complete hunting forecast, visit http://www.dfw.state.or.us/hunting_forecast/index.asp

General spring turkey hunting season continues through May 31. For a complete forecast visit http://www.dfw.state.or.us/RR/hunting_forecast/turkey.asp

VIEWING

Spring is one of the best wildlife viewing time periods in the Klamath and Harney Basins, which are major staging areas for migratory birds starting their northward migration to primary nesting areas.

NEAR BURNS: Currently thousands of migrating snow, Ross's, white-fronted and Canada geese as well as ducks, lesser sandhill cranes and tundra swans are using the Harney Basin near the town of Burns. Some other species of note in the basin are bald eagles, golden eagles, American white pelicans, greater sandhill cranes, white-faced ibis and long-billed curlews. Another attraction is viewing strutting sage grouse which do their annual mating display from mid-March through April. Sage grouse viewing is best during the first hour of daylight on days when the weather is good.

The KLAMATH WILDLIFE AREA and LOWER KLAMATH NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE are excellent locations to view thousands of ducks and geese. Snow, ross's, and white-fronted geese will soon be departing for northern nesting grounds in Alaska and Canada. Mallard ducks have begun nesting and other species will soon begin nesting such as gadwall, pintail, redhead, canvasback, and cinnamon tel. Many shorebirds have arrived including American avocet, black-necked stilt, long-billed dowitcher and spotted sandpiper. These shorebirds can be found in shallow wetland areas or along other water areas.

Upper Klamath Lake is another location to view diving ducks including bufflehead, goldeneye, scaup, ruddy duck, redhead and canvasback. Bald eagles can be found anywhere there are concentrations of waterfowl, their primary food source this time of year. Grebes including Clark's, western, pied-billed and eared grebes can be found on Upper Klamath and Agency Lakes taking advantage of the fish resource. Over the next month or so western and Clark's grebes can be observed in their courtship ritual dance. Grebes will begin building floating nests made of emergent vegetation. Good numbers of American white pelicans can be found foraging for fish in the larger water bodies. Pelicans use large nest colonies on secluded islands free from disturbance.

SUMMER LAKE WILDLIFE AREA

Viewing opportunities remain good as northward migrants and local breeding species continue return to the Wildlife Area and stage in good numbers. Very favorable weather conditions prevailed during most of the past week allowing for enjoyable viewing. Extensive and widespread bird use of Area wetlands coupled with new spring arrivals made for excellent viewing opportunities.

Waterfowl species, primarily ducks, remain very apparent and are widely scattered across the Area. Over the past week at least 16 species were present. Ducks are in their brilliant nuptial plumage now, courtship activities are intensifying and nesting for several species is underway. Most all Arctic nesting geese departed during the past week. There was a major movement of greater white-fronts that departed for Alaska nesting areas. Scattered small flocks and individuals may remain in the area for another month or two.

Early breeding species, such as mallards and cinnamon teal are nesting now; several nests have been found during the past week.

Viewers are urged to keep pets in close control. It is unlawful to allow dogs to run at large during this time of the year. If nests or young are found please move away from the vicinity immediately to avoid undue disturbance.

Northern pintail, northern shoveler and Am. green-winged teal continue to stage in good numbers and cinnamon teal and gadwall (common Wildlife Area breeders) are increasing as migrants return from wintering areas. Most cinnamon teal will begin nesting soon while gadwalls will not start for another two to three weeks. Most diving ducks (canvasback, lesser scaup, ring-necked ducks and bufflehead) have departed, but a variety of species continue to utilize the deeper ponds and lakes to forage for submergent aquatic plants and invertebrates.

Canada geese remain very secretive as they complete nesting activities and rear broods. Broods continue to be observed, but most are in remote areas where disturbance is minimal. Hatching of nests should continue over the next several weeks as some geese are renesting. Small flocks of sub-adult birds can still be found across the Area.

Sandhill crane nesting is underway and the season's first colts (crane chicks) should be observed any day now.

Shorebirds are increasing in number and variety. Spring arrivals continue to appear with semi-palmated plovers and Wilson's phalaropes arriving last week. Other migrants will arrive soon and breeding species (9 regularly on the Wildlife Area) will continue to increase in number. Expect snowy plovers, phalaropes and several species of sandpipers to arrive in the next week. Some early nesting species, such as killdeer and willets are nesting now. Common snipe are very active in their courtship winnowing flights, especially early morning and evenings.

Waders and other waterbirds are increasing in number and species. Caspian terns made their spring arrival early last week. American bitterns have begun their courtship activities with their "uumpa-uump" calls being very commonly heard early in the morning. Rails are becoming very vocal as well.

Resident and wintering raptors remain scattered throughout the Area as well as on private lands along Highway 31. Northern harriers are especially numerous over marsh and hay meadow areas and red-tailed hawks are frequently seen. Rough-legged hawks have mostly departed to arctic nesting areas, but a few late migrants can still be seen.

Prairie falcons, bald and golden eagles are frequently seen during this time of the year, and peregrine falcons should arrive soon. The osprey pair at Ana Res. is occupying the nest structure and nesting is underway.

Great-horned owls remain very vocal during the night, with nesting and brood rearing well underway. The chicks at the River Ranch Barn were apparent early last week.

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. Swallows are increasing in number, and nest construction is underway for all species. Other passerines continue to arrive with spring appearance of orange-crowned warbler, Western kingbird and yellow warbler. A Eurasian collared dove was observed at Headquarters yesterday. Large numbers of yellow-rumped warblers can be found throughout the entire Area and other warbler species should arrive soon.

Viewers can expect to see increased numbers and diversity of some species on a regular basis over the next few weeks. Area breeding species and summer residents are increasing in number as they return from southern wintering locations. New species are arriving almost daily. However, arctic and northern nesting migrants will depart for other spring staging areas or breeding locales after they replenish energy reserves in preparation for the next leg of their journey. Be sure to check the list at Headquarters for new arrivals and unusual birds.

Wetland habitats remain in excellent condition. Ponds and other still water areas are full or nearly so and high water levels have created numerous shallow temporary wetlands that are highly favored by many migrants. Evaporation rates are increasing with the warm temperatures (reaching 80 oF) over the weekend and temporary wetlands are beginning to dry-up. Irrigation season in Summer Lake Valley will begin this week, Ana River flows will decrease and as a consequence seasonal wetlands will begin to recede providing additional foraging opportunities for many species.

Spring habitat management actions of controlled burning, drawdowns and drying as well maintenance of semi-permanent and permanent wetlands have created favorable forging and nesting sites for many species.

Natural food sources of seeds, tubers and plant parts remain very abundant and available in nearly all wetland areas. Lush, green emergent vegetation growth is beginning to occur.

Upland sites are in excellent condition due to lush green-up of grasses and forb emergence and growth. Trees and shrubs are leafing out and most are blossoming now. Invertebrate activity is increasing with the warming temperatures and clouds of midges and others species are providing considerable food to insectivorous birds across the Area. Biting insects are beginning to emerge and are increasing in number.

The Wildlife Viewing Loop is open and will remain that way until next fall. Other major dike roads (Bullgate, Windbreak and Work Road) are closed to motor vehicle travel from March 15th through August 15th to reduce disturbance to northward migrants and early nesting waterbirds (primarily Canada geese, mallard and sandhill cranes).

Viewer are urged to use care when driving roads since many are soft and muddy especially edges adjacent to ponds and canals.

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

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

Camping is permitted at four sites on the wildlife area.

For additional information on viewing opportunities please contact the Wildlife Area at phone (541) 943-3152, fax (541) 943-3204, or email at martin.j.stlouis@state.or.us

NORTHEAST ZONE

FISHING

Streams in the Northeast Zone closed for steelhead on April 15 and will open for trout angling on May 26. Kinney Lake will also open on May 26.

JOHN DAY RIVER: All angling is closed from April 15 through May 25 upstream from Kimberly, but remains open below Kimberly year long. Smallmouth bass angling is just starting, with cool water temperatures making them pretty lethargic. Streamflow at the time this report was filed measured 3,500 cfs at Service Creek which is good level for angling, although slightly off color. Stream flow levels are available from the Service Creek gauging station at http://waterdata.usgs.gov/or/nwis/uv?14046500.

LADD POND (Peach Road): Was stocked with legal rainbows in April.

LONG CREEK POND, SEVENTH STREET POND, ANSON WRIGHT POND, AND BRANDON'S POND: Have all been recently stocked with legal sized rainbow trout.

MAGONE LAKE: Angling success for brook and rainbow trout is fair.

MARR POND: Has been stocked with legal size trout and a few surplus steelhead, angling prospects are good. Stocking is scheduled for this week.

MCNARY, HAT ROCK and TATONE PONDS: McNary and Tatone ponds will be stocked this week. Fishing is expected to be good.

MCKAY RESERVOIR: The water level is now at 89% of capacity. Best opportunities are for trout and yellow perch. Anglers have had good success catching 14-16 inch rainbows. Trolling throughout the reservoir has been effective as well as fishing bait or lures at the inlet. Anglers fishing at the inlet need to make sure they are fishing in the reservoir and not in McKay Creek as the creek between the reservoir and Shaw Road does not open until April 28th.

ROULET POND: Was stocked with legal rainbows in April.

WALLOWA WILDLIFE AREA POND: Angling is fair to good. The pond has been stocked with legal size rainbow trout and surplus hatchery steelhead. The pond will be stocked this week.

UMATILLA RIVER: The first Spring Chinook of the season were caught over the weekend in the lower river. Based on Columbia River dam counts, the fishery should pick up this week. The pre-season estimate for the spring Chinook run is 2,500 fish. At this run size managers will likely need to implement an early closure to stay within harvest guidelines. River conditions are good with the flow between 300 and 600 cfs. No fish are being hauled upstream. For up-to-date flow information, visit the following website: www.usbr.gov/pn/hydromet/umatilla/index.html.

VICTOR POND: Angling is fair for legal size rainbow trout. The pond will be stocked this week.

WALLOWA LAKE: The ice has melted off of Wallowa Lake and angling is fair for rainbow trout. Kokanee angling is poor but should improve as the lake begins to warm.

WESTON POND: This pond has been stocked with legal-sized rainbow trout. Fishing should be good.

WILLOW CREEK: This stream bas been stocked with legal-sized rainbow trout through the towns of Heppner, Lexington and Ione.

WILLOW CREEK RESERVOIR: The reservoir will be stocked with legal-sized rainbow trout this week. No recent reports on angling success.

HUNTING

REMINDER: Controlled hunt applications are due May 15. Visit http://www.dfw.state.or.us/resources/hunting/big_game/controlled_hunts/ for 2007-08 proposed tag numbers.

Spring bear hunting continues through May 31. For a complete hunting forecast, visit http://www.dfw.state.or.us/hunting_forecast/index.asp

General spring turkey hunting season continues through May 31. For a complete forecast visit http://www.dfw.state.or.us/RR/hunting_forecast/turkey.asp

GRANT DISTRICT

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

BAKER DISTRICT

SQUIRRELS: Excellent squirrel hunting can be found this time of year in the agricultural valleys. Many private landowners are happy to grant access to hunters who ask permission.

TURKEYS: Turkeys are found in varying densities around Baker County. Try the northern portions of Keating and Pine Creek Units and the eastern edge of the Elkhorn Mountains in the Sumpter Unit.

BEARS: Bears are becoming more active in low and mid elevation areas. Many high elevation areas are still covered in snow. Look for bears on south facing slopes with abundant forage.

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

COYOTE: Coyotes can be found throughout Baker County. Calling is most successful in areas of reduced human activity.

UMATILLA/PENDLETON DISTRICT

COUGAR: Cougars are well distributed in forested areas of the Walla Walla, Mt. Emily, and Ukiah units. Hunters will have the most luck by finding a fresh naturally made kill and sitting on it, or by using predator calls.

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

WALLOWA DISTRICT

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

COYOTE: Coyotes can be found throughout Wallowa County. Howlers work well this time of year. Calling is most successful in areas of reduced human activity.

TURKEY: Turkey are scattered throughout the Wenaha, Sled Springs, Chesnimnus, and North end of the Minam Units.

SPRING BEAR: All units have good bear densities. Bear activity has been slow, but will increase beginning in May. Hunters should focus on spot and stalk type hunting, glassing for bears in the early morning and late afternoon/evening hours. Bears can be spotted feeding on open canyon slopes. Some bears will respond to fawn distress type calls.

UNION DISTRICT

COUGAR - Locating fresh cougar tracks in the snow continues to be a good starting point on where to hunt. More hunters are starting to use remotely activated calls with good results. Finding a fresh deer or elk kill that a cougar has fed on is an excellent place to set up a blind down wind of the carcass. Cougar will cover their kills between feeding and are most active in the morning and early evening. Cougar season closed statewide May 31-Aug. 1.

GROUND SQUIRRELS-The warmer weather is bringing ground squirrels and providing a good opportunity for shooters. Scout agricultural grounds on the east side of the Grande Ronde Valley and southern Union County. Always ask for permission before hunting private lands. Many landowners are receptive to allowing youth ground squirrel hunters.

TURKEY-The mild winter has resulted in excellent turkey survival.

BEAR-Look for bears in mid to low elevations within the Starkey Unit. Successful hunters should send in a premolar tooth for black bear population monitoring.

UMATILLA DISTRICT

SPRING BEAR: Weather is warmer so bears should be out and hides will be in good condition for the next few weeks.

TURKEY: Premium turkey hunting season from now through May 31. Visit link below for full forecast for NE region incl. Umatilla County.

http://www.dfw.state.or.us/RR/hunting_forecast/northeast_turkey.asp

VIEWING

Bald eagles can be seen along the South Columbia River basin wildlife management areas. Deer and elk herds should be bunched up and visible in the Blue Mountains and bears are also out.

BAKER DISTRICT: Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep, mule deer, and bald eagles can be observed along Snake River Road between Huntington and Richland. Waterfowl viewing opportunities are abundant this time of year at the reservoir and pods of the county. Listen for ruffed grouse drumming in forested areas.

WALLOWA DISTRICT:

Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep, elk, and mule deer can be observed at the Wenaha Wildlife Area, Troy, Oregon. Eden Bench provides a good opportunity to view deer and elk, while bighorn sheep are often observed in rim rocks above the Grande Ronde River.

ROAD CONDITIONS: Roads at higher elevations in the Imnaha and Snake River units are still impassable due to snow drifts. The 62 Road from Elgin to Troy in the Wenaha unit is also blocked by snow from Lookout Mountain to Hoodoo. Noregaard, Whiskey Creek, and Shamrock travel management areas in the Sled Springs unit are in effect through May 31.

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

ELKHORN WILDLIFE AREAS: Reopen to public access. Many migratory song birds are

SNAKE RIVER ZONE

FISHING

BROWNLEE RESERVOIR: Crappie fishing has is fair. Bass fishing has been very good and the fish are large. Perch and bluegill are being caught by boat and from shore. Use worms, jigs with crappie nibbles or cutbait. A few catfish are being picked up as well. The reservoir is rising and is at 7 feet below normal. Call Idaho Power Company's recording at 1-800-422-3143 to get information on access at recreational sites or visit www.idahopower.com under the "Rivers and Recreation" heading. For reservoir level information, visit http://www.nwd-wc.usace.army.mil/perl/dataquery.pl?kbrownlee

OXBOW RESERVOIR: Crappie fishing is good. Bass are being caught as well. A few catfish are just now being picked up.

HELLS CANYON RESERVOIR: Crappie fishing is good. Bass are being caught as well but are catch and release only until July 1. A few catfish are just now being picked up.

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

COLUMBIA RIVER ZONE

Salmon, Steelhead, Shad:

BONNEVILLE POOL: Weekly checking showed four adipose fin-clipped spring Chinook kept for 31 bank rods.

JOHN DAY POOL: Weekly checking showed four adipose fin-clipped spring Chinook and two adipose fin-clipped winter steelhead kept; plus one unclipped spring Chinook and three winter steelhead released for 49 bank rods; and 11 adipose fin-clipped spring Chinook kept, plus one unclipped spring Chinook released for 34 boats.

Sturgeon

In the Lower Columbia River sturgeon catch rates improved in the Gorge over the weekend, but appear to have declined in the lower portions of the river.

GORGE BANK: Weekend checking showed six legal white sturgeon kept, plus three sublegals released for 32 bank anglers.

GORGE BOATS: Weekend checking showed seven legal white sturgeon kept, plus 15 legals and 20 sublegal sturgeon released for four boats (complete trips).

TROUTDALE BOATS: No report.

PORTLAND TO LONGVIEW BOATS: Weekend checking showed eight legal white sturgeon kept, plus 117 sublegal sturgeon released for 66 boats (complete & incomplete trips).

PORTLAND TO CLATSKANIE BANK: No report.

ESTUARY BOATS: Weekend checking showed no catch reported for 14 boats (complete trips).

BONNEVILLE POOL: Weekly checking showed one legal white sturgeon kept, plus one oversize and 27 sublegal sturgeon released for 49 bank rods; and 11 sublegal sturgeon released for seven boats.

JOHN DAY POOL: Weekly checking showed three sublegal sturgeon released for 32 bank rods; and four legal white sturgeon kept, plus four oversize, and 90 sublegal sturgeon released for 27 boats.

Walleye

BONNEVILLE POOL: Weekly checking showed two walleye kept for one boat.

JOHN DAY POOL: Weekly checking showed 120 walleye kept, plus 26 walleye released for 25 boats.

MARINE ZONE

FISHING

Fishing for Pacific halibut seasons 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 will open May 10 Thursday through Saturday every week until June 9. The area south of Humbug Mountain runs from May 1 through Oct. 31, seven days a week. For more information go to http://www.dfw.state.or.us/MRP/finfish/halibut/index.asp.

A minus tide series through Wednesday May 9 should provide good opportunities for tidepooling and clamming.

Ocean fishing for salmon, other than coho, opened March 15 south of Cape Falcon (near Manzanita) and north of Humbug Mountain (near Port Orford).

Crabbing in the ocean, bays and estuaries is poor to fair. 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 and success has been very good in the ocean when weather conditions permit. Lingcod fishing continues to be fair to good. 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. 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.

VIEWING

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

The northbound migration of GRAY WHALES continues through the end of April. During the spring migration the whales are closer to shore and sometimes stop to eat. A group of more than 200 gray whales stay along the Oregon coast from the spring through fall. This resident population joins the Artic gray whales during their winter migration to the calving grounds in the Sea of Cortez and then returns each year to feed on small shrimp that live in Oregon's kelp forests.

Calmer days are better whale watching days. Any spot with an ocean view may yield whale sightings, but higher locations are better than sandy beaches. Several carter boat operations along the coast offer whale-watching trips.