The Oregon Recreation Report (fishing, hunting, viewing), update Tuesday, Jan. 8, by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife
CRABBING
Sport crabbing is open in the ocean, bays and estuaries. Bay crabbing often slows after heavy rain because crab head toward the ocean where the water is more salty. For more information on sport crabbing visit
http://ftp.dfw.state.or.us/MRP/shellfish/crab/index.asp
For sport crabbers the minimum size for Dungeness crab is 5¾ inches measured in a straight line across the back immediately in front of, but not including, the points. For a photograph and diagram see page 97 of the Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations booklet.
WILLAMETTE ZONE
Bring the kids to Walter Wirth Lake or Walling Pond in Salem or Junction City Pond to fish this week-ODFW will be stocking trout. See below for more information.
STOCKING SCHEDULE:
The South Willamette Watershed District will stock Junction City Pond with 350 trophy-sized rainbow trout and several larger brood stock trout the week of Jan. 7. South Willamette Watershed District will also stock Walling pond with 400 legal and 50 larger-sized trout and Walter Wirth Lake with 1,700 legal and 150 larger-sized rainbow trout the week of Jan. 7.
The North Willamette Watershed will stock Huddleston Pond with 350 legal-sized rainbow trout the week of Jan. 7.
CLACKAMAS RIVER: steelhead
Winter steelhead fishing has been good on the Clackamas for both wild and hatchery fish. Early indicators are looking good for a healthy steelhead run.
ODFW and OSU have released 80 hatchery summer steelhead implanted with radio-tags into the Clackamas River downstream of River Mill Dam as part of a study to monitor adult summer steelhead behavior. The fish in the study can be identified by an antenna trailing from the abdomen, and a blue plastic tag carrying a unique number inserted just below the dorsal fin on the back of the fish. The department reminds anglers it is against the law for anyone to retain a radio-tagged fish in this river, and these fish must be released unharmed. In addition, these fish have been anesthetized for surgery to implant the radio tags and are not fit for human consumption. Anyone who catches one of the tagged summer steelhead is asked to record the number printed on the plastic tag, without removing the tag from the fish, and notify ODFW of the date and location where the fish was caught and released by calling the Clackamas Office any time at (971) 673-6000. Anyone witnessing a tagged fish in the water is also asked to call. All reports of tagged fish will provide important information for the study.
Boaters will find good ramp availability at Clackamette, Riverside, Carver, Barton, Feldheimers, and McIver Park.
Bank anglers need to be aware that with the new fish ladder at Rivermill Dam there has been a change to the angling deadline. This change is particularly noticeable on the McIver Park side of the river where a new fishway entrance was installed. The new angling deadline is clearly visible in bright yellow painted rocks on both the park side and Estacada side. Anglers must adhere to this deadline, making sure to fish and cast downstream of the line. The new deadline is being strictly enforced by law enforcement.
DETROIT, GREEN PETER AND FOSTER RESERVOIRS: trout
Detroit, Green Peter, and Foster Reservoirs are all at low pool for flood control purposes. Holdover trout from summer and fall stocking are available in good numbers. Only Mongold ramp at Detroit and Thistle Creek ramp at Green Peter are usable at current reservoir levels. Both Sunnyside and Gedney Creek ramps at Foster should be accessible.
EAGLE CREEK: steelhead
Winter steelhead fishing has been good on Eagle Creek for both wild and hatchery fish. Early indicators are looking good for a healthy steelhead run.
The most popular spots to try include the Bonnie Lure area, the water above and below the lower fish ladder, Eagle Fern Park, and up near the hatchery. Much of the creek meanders through private property so pay attention to your location and secure permission before fishing on private land. Eagle Creek will remain open for coho angling until Nov. 30 with a bag limit of three adipose fin-clipped fish.
JUNCTION CITY POND: rainbow trout
Junction City Pond will be stocked with trophy and large brood stock rainbow trout the week of Jan. 7.
NORTH AND SOUTH SANTIAM: steelhead
Flows in both the North and South Santiam Rivers remain moderately high but can be fishable out of the fast currents. Winter steelhead continue to trickle over Willamette Falls in low numbers so a few new fish are entering the system.
SANDY RIVER: Steelhead
Winter steelhead fishing has been good on the Sandy for both wild and hatchery fish. Early indicators are looking good for a healthy steelhead run. 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.
The Fish and Wildlife Commission adopted new sport-fishing regulations for the Sandy River which move the fishing deadline (or boundary) upstream to the mouth of the Salmon River (near Brightwood) began Jan. 1, 2008.
All current fishing regulations in the lower river apply to the newly extended area.
This provides an additional seven miles of fishing opportunity in an area that was historically popular among anglers before 1999 regulations closed the area. The changes are the result of the removal of Marmot Dam, which made the current angling deadline of "200 feet below the dam" obsolete.
The changes at the old Marmot Dam site and the movement of material have the potential to affect conditions downstream of that area. The entire section of river near the dam removal site is a hazardous construction zone with no public entrance allowed at this time. Access to the PGE property at the previous site of Marmot Dam is still closed to all public access.
Access to the river can be gained 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.
WALTER WIRTH LAKE/WALLING POND: Rainbow trout
Walter Wirth Lake and Walling Pond in Salem are scheduled to receive additional catchable sized rainbow trout the week of Jan. 7. A few more of the larger brood trout will also be stocked into Wirth Lake.
WILLAMETTE RIVER: sturgeon, winter steelhead
Angling for winter steelhead is good in the Meldrum Bar area with reports of fish being caught.
Sturgeon angling has been fair to good on the Lower Willamette from the St Johns area all the way up into Oregon City with both sub-legals and keepers in the catch.
The Oregon/Washington Compact adopted the following rules at the Dec. 13 Joint State Hearing for the sturgeon sport fishery above Wauna power lines (RM 40) upstream to Bonneville Dam, including all adjacent Washington tributaries, and the lower Willamette River (including the Multnomah Channel) upstream to Willamette Falls for 2008:
* Allow the retention of white sturgeon four days per week on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday during Jan. 1 through July 31 and Oct. 1 through Dec. 31, 2008.
* Prohibit the retention of sturgeon three days per week on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday during Jan. 1-July 31 and Oct. 1 through Dec. 31, 2008 and seven days per week during Aug. 1 through Sept. 30, 2008.
* Retention of green sturgeon is prohibited as per permanent regulations.
* Daily and annual catch limits listed in the 2008 Oregon Sport Regulations pamphlet remain in effect.
Bank fishing for sturgeon can be found at Meldrum Bar and at the wall in downtown Oregon City. Sturgeon anglers have been using frozen smelt, herring, or sand shrimp as effective bait.
WILLAMETTE ZONE HUNTING
EVENTS
Resolve to get outdoors in 2008
Small Game Clinic, Jan. 19
EE Wilson Wildlife Area, Family Event
This workshop is designed for beginners, but all skill levels are welcome. ODFW and Mary's Peak Hound Club are partnering to provide this beginner's clinic for families interested in learning more about small game hunting. You will learn about using dogs to assist with hunting small game such as rabbits, raccoons and squirrels; what clothing and equipment is needed; and what safety and ethical practices you need to follow. Participants will have the opportunity to practice their shotgun skills on the range prior to joining members of the MPHC and their beagles for an actual rabbit hunting experience on the E.E. Wilson Wildlife Area. Registration Limit: 30 Workshop Notes: Continental breakfast, lunch, use of equipment, instruction and resource materials will be provided. All participants carrying a gun must have a valid hunting license. Minimum age for participation is 12. All youths must have proof of their Hunter Education Certification prior to the workshop.
BOW Event, A Day at the Archery Range, Mar. 15
Douglas Ridge Rifle Club Eagle Creek
This workshop is designed for beginners, but all skill levels are welcome. This hands-on session will teach you the basics of archery and bowhunting. The Douglas Ridge Rifle Club sits on about 130 acres of woods (primarily Douglas Fir), open meadows, and a ridge rising 400 feet above the flatland in Eagle Creek, Oregon. Archery and bowhunting basics will be covered including safety, equipment and clothing. Participants will have ample time on the range to try different types of bows, including longbows, recurves, and compounds, and will have a chance to shoot at a variety of targets. Registration Limit: 30 Workshop Notes: All needed equipment and lunch will be provided. Participants are welcome to bring their own bows.
OPEN: Duck, goose (most of NW Oregon Permit zone closes Jan. 13), blue grouse, ruffed grouse, California quail, mountain quail, cougar (new tag needed for 2008), crow
Blue grouse, ruffed grouse, mountain and California quail - Look for Mountain and California quail, blue and ruffed grouse while they search for their meal of berries and insects along graveled roads. Hunters targeting the blue grouse should look in upper elevations, openings and clear cuts. Ruffed grouse are more common along streams. Mountain quail should be found in 3-5 year-old clear cuts.
ODFW staff observed good populations of blue and ruffed grouse in the Cascades. The number of grouse chicks observed along the Coast range appears average. Hunters have reported success of ruffed grouse in lower elevations along rocky roads close to water and blue grouse in higher elevations.
Department surveys for California and mountain quail showed poor chick survival in the North Willamette Watershed District management units this summer. Hunters will need to look for a variety of berries, grains and other food sources that will concentrate birds.
Hunting after or during rainfall makes the woods quieter and easier to sneak up on prey.
Cougar - In the North Willamette Watershed, cougar are more commonly found in the Santiam unit than in coastal units such as the Scappoose, northeast Stott Mt. and the eastern portions of the Trask. Hunters looking for the best chance of success should scout along snow covered roads or near concentrations of deer and elk to locate fresh sign. Once fresh cougar sign is located hunters have a variety of hunting options to choose from. Tracking cougar through fresh snow is a challenging way to hunt, but hunters are reporting improved success with this technique. Using predator calls that mimic the bleat of a fawn or elk calf may lure a cougar into view and hunters should always be ready to try a variety of sounds if their standard call is not producing.
Waterfowl:
Duck, merganser, goose, snipe - Willamette Valley waterfowl season is in full swing and there is a wide variety of dabbling and diving ducks available for hunters to pursue. The weather plays a large role in hunters' success on any given day, with some of the best conditions found during storms when ducks and geese are pushed off large water bodies to seek shelter in smaller ponds, coves, bays and along the edges of rivers and sloughs. Hunting on a windy and rainy day can improve success as waterfowl are flying lower to the ground providing closer shooting opportunities and decoy spreads are more visible and life like in their movements.
Sauvie Island Wildlife Area
Sauvie Island Wildlife Area success rates are as follows: Jan. 7 averaged 2.3 birds per hunter with Aaron and Crane units leading; Jan. 5 averaged 1.4 birds per hunter with Crane and Johnson units leading; Jan. 3 averaged 2.3 birds per hunter with Rentenaar and Steelman units leading; Jan. 1 averaged 2.0 birds per hunter with units Aaron and Seal leading; Dec. 30 averaged 1.2 birds per hunter with Malarky and Seal units leading; Dec. 28 averaged 1.0 birds per hunter with Stutzer and Johnson units leading.
Sauvie Island Wildlife Area Hunt Results: http://www.dfw.state.or.us/resources/hunting/waterfowl/counts/sauvie_island/2007-08/index.asp
Sauvie Island Wildlife Area hunters are enjoying a successful waterfowl season. An aerial survey conducted Nov. 14 found more than 107,000 waterfowl on the Island. Oregon's waterfowl population is up 27 percent and nationwide up 14 percent. The food crops and moist soil plants are in excellent condition and will provide good feeding opportunities well into the season. All hunt units will have flooded areas with opportunities for decoy use.
EE Wilson Wildlife Area
The week of Dec. 31, EE Wilson Wildlife Area reported 98 hunters with a harvest of 6 ducks and 79 rabbits, adding to the success of rabbit-hunting season. Approximately 80 ducks were seen on the EE Wilson ponds the week of Jan. 7, indicating that numbers are picking up on the wildlife area, looking good for the last few weeks of th hunting season.
Three Common Goldeneye ducks were recently spotted on the wildlife area, making an attractive harvest for a lucky hunter.
Goose hunting is not permitted at EE Wilson Wildlife Area, but hunting for duck and snipe is allowed.
Fern Ridge Wildlife Area
Success rate at Fern Ridge Wildlife Area is as follows: Jan. 7 averaged .09 birds per hunter with blind 2 leading; Jan. 5 averaged 2.6 birds per hunter with blinds 2W and 3W leading; Jan. 2 averaged 3.2 birds per hunter with blinds 2W and 4W leading; Dec. 31 averaged 2.9 birds per hunter with blinds 1W, 2W and 3W leading; Dec. 29 averaged 1.9 birds per hunter with blinds 2W, 1W and 4W leading.
Duck season continues with the majority of Fern Ridge lake and wildlife area open to hunting daily. Hunters are reminded that the entire Fern Ridge project is closed to goose hunting during the general goose season. Fisher Butte and Royal Amazon units remain open 7-days a week during duck season with hunting ending at 1 PM each day. These two units are closed to public use at 2 PM each day to provide afternoon sanctuary for wintering waterfowl.
The reservation waterfowl hunt in the East and West Coyote units continues each Mon., Wed. and Sat. through duck season. Statistics for the hunt are posted on the ODFW web page following each hunt. Hunters are welcome to take a chance as a standby hunter to fill blinds left vacant by permit holders who do not arrive for their hunt. A check-in drawing for stand-by hunters is held 1-1/2 hours before shooting time each Mon., Wed. and Sat. morning at the Nielson Road parking lot. Call the wildlife area headquarters at (541) 935-2591 for details.
WILLAMETTE ZONE VIEWING
EVENTS
Busy Beavers Family Stroll at Tryon Creek State Natural Area; Jan. 11; 1 p.m. to 2 p.m., SW Portland
Join a park naturalist for nature story time and a stroll through the park. This program is geared toward families with children ages 3-6, but all are welcome. Registration is free, call (503) 636-9886 ext. 225 for more information.
Birding at Wapato Greenway, Jan. 12, 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Sauvie Island
Check out the herons, eagles and other abundant winter waterfowl on a bird hike on Sauvie Island led by a naturalist from Tryon Creek State Natural Area. Advance registration required; event is free. Call 503-636-9886 ext. 225.
Keizer Ponds and Brambles, Birding trip, January 12, 8 a.m.
Go on a birding trip with Salem Audubon to visit some ponds in the area, looking for a variety of waterfowl. In the Lake Labish area, wintering finches and sparrows should be seen; and possibly raptors and shorebirds. Plan for a good deal of walking. The trip should be finished by early afternoon. Call leader, Rich Ford for more information (503) 510-9583.
Corvallis Area
EE Wilson Wildlife Area
During the recent Audubon Christmas bird count, volunteers discovered several unique birds at the EE Wilson Wildlife Area including a palm warbler and an American tree sparrow.
Find directions to EE Wilson Wildlife Area.
Visit Whatbird.com's Web site to learn how to identify the palm warbler and the American tree sparrow.
Bald Hill Park
This 284-acre park lies west of the Benton County Fairgrounds. It is home to sharp-shinned and cooper's hawks that hunt as well as nest in this area. Barn owls have roosted in the sturdy old barn and could nest in the large oaks. Great horned owls and smaller owls are often seen. This is also a good spot for acorn woodpeckers and red-breasted sapsuckers. The willow flycatcher, whose numbers may be declining, has been observed in the riparian areas. The white oak savannas attract white-breasted nuthatches as well as western bluebirds, which can be seen near mistletoe berries in the treetops during winter.
Visit the Audubon Society of Corvallis Web site for parking information and an area map.
Eugene Area
Delta Ponds
Many different types of waterfowl and raptors currently use the area. With the higher water and earlier dusk, now is a good time to see beaver and muskrat. Best viewing time is around 4:30 p.m. When viewing wildlife, please remember to be respectful and try not to disturb the animals' natural behaviors. Sometimes, the best way to view animals is from inside your vehicle as to not frighten the birds/animals away.
For more information on the Delta Ponds on the Oregon Solutions Web site.
Forest Grove Area
Fernhill Wetlands
Fernhill Wetlands is 243 acres of wetland and moist soil habitats. From November through March, thousands of waterfowl can be seen daily. Currently, the resident American bald eagles can be seen in the tops of cottonwoods. For information on Fernhill Wetlands, visit the Birding Washington County Web site.
Portland Area
Smith and Bybee Lakes Wildlife Area
The Smith and Bybee Lakes Wildlife Area is one of the nation's largest urban freshwater wetlands. Located near the confluence of the Columbia and Willamette Rivers, the lakes function as a flood absorption system for the lower Columbia River. Hidden within an industrial area and just minutes from downtown Portland, the wetlands provide for diverse communities of plant and animal life. Numerous local schools use Smith and Bybee Lakes for a variety of outdoor education programs.
For a printable wildlife checklist, visit the Friends of Smith and Bybee Lakes Web site.
Volunteer at Smith and Bybee Wetlands Canoe Access, Jan. 12, 9 a.m.-noon
Smith and Bybee Wetlands Natural Area is one of the nation's largest urban freshwater wetlands at almost 2,000 acres. Come plant Willow stakes to help restore the riparian areas around the wetlands. Planting will be done at the boat launch near the northern parking lot off marine drive. For information.
Salem Area
Walling Pond
Walling Pond in Salem is a fishing pond created by Walling Sand and Gravel near 16th St. and McGilchrist St.; it is west of Interstate 5 off the U.S. 22 exit. In addition to good fishing, visitors to the pond can enjoy seeing a good selection of sparrows, swallows and wintering waterfowl.
Sauvie Island
Sauvie Island Wildlife Area
There are many birds to see now at Sauvie Island Wildlife Area. Cormorants can be seen diving, swimming and drying their wings along Multnomah Channel. Along the Columbia River, the bald eagles have begun to return to their nests. Great horned owls should begin occupying the nests of red-tailed hawks. ODFW staff recommend watching for the pointy feathers of the "horns" to stick out above the nest edge. Viewing areas currently open to the public are Coon Point, the Eastside Viewing Platform and Rentenaar Road.
A parking permit is required for the Sauvie Island Wildlife Area and can be purchased at ODFW Point of Sale vendors. A daily permit is $3.50 and an annual permit is only $11.00.
Find directions to Sauvie Island Wildlife Area on the ODFW Web site.
Springfield Area
Fern Ridge Wildlife Area
Flights of geese can be observed arriving at Fern Ridge Lake every evening through the winter migration season. A good vantage point at sunset is the Royal Avenue parking lot. Royal Avenue and the trail to the Fisher Butte viewing blind remain open all day every day year round. Visitors in January are advised there will be construction activity at the west end of Royal Avenue while the Corps of Engineers constructs a nesting island for Caspian terns. The island is located 1/2 mile south of Gibson Island. Hikers are cautioned to be on the lookout for rock truck traffic along Royal Avenue. Find directions to Fern Ridge Wildlife Area on ODFW's Web site.
Willamette Valley
Watch for Bald Eagles
This is a great time to see bald eagles. Several eagles are active in the lower Columbia River near Sauvie Island and Deer Island. Bald eagles are often found near water with large numbers of waterfowl or fish.
When viewing eagles, stay in your car if possible, unless you're watching from an observation deck or viewing platform. As with many bird and wildlife species, your car acts as an excellent blind. Movement from people toward a perched eagle will chase it off its roost. Flying takes away from the needed energy an eagle requires to survive in the cold winter temperatures.
NORTHWEST ZONE
FISHING
Anglers, particularly boaters, should use extreme caution when fishing local waters. Many roads are blocked or damaged and large amounts of debris are present in most rivers. Log jams or other hazards may be present in many places. Silt and other debris will make launching boats difficult at some ramps until they can be cleaned up.
NORTH COAST LAKES:
Approximately 175 surplus summer steelhead have been released in Town Lake and 87 in Cape Meares Lake this winter. Angling has been fair for the few who are angling for these fish.
The fishing dock at Lake Lytle was heavily damaged by this winter's storms. The dock is currently unusable, and much of it has broken off. It will likely be quite a while before the dock is repaired or replaced.
Forest roads leading to several local lakes may be damaged or blocked. Anglers should check with the appropriate land manager about road conditions prior to heading out.
MID COAST LAKES:
The rainbow trout stocking season will begin this month and extend into June. Here is a list of lakes to be stock in January with approximate stocking dates and number of fish to be released.
Jan. 15, Alder and Dune Lakes near Florence will be stocked with 500 legal-sized trout each.
Jan. 16, Cleawox Lake (2,000 trout) and Munsel Lake (1,000 trout) near Florence will both be stocked with legal-sized trout.
Jan. 23, Big Creek Reservoirs 1 and 2 will be stocked with 1,000 and 2,000 legal-sized trout and Olalla Reservoir with 2,000 legal-sized trout.
ALSEA RIVER: winter steelhead
Anglers are having good success catching steelhead throughout the river either by drift boat or by bank fishing. Most fishing pressure is occurring along the N. Fork and around the Alsea Hatchery but fishing is good from the town of Alsea on down as fish continue to return. During high murky flows, anglers should concentrate in the upper basin as river conditions improve faster. Both drift boat fishing and bank angling is productive using a variety of baits, jigs and other lures.
Current river levels: http://www.nwrfc.noaa.gov/river/station/flowplot/flowplot.cgi?TIDO3
BIG CREEK: steelhead
Angling for winter steelhead has been fair to good depending on water conditions. Hatchery fish are being recycled from the hatchery on a regular basis.
GNAT CREEK: steelhead
Winter steelhead angling is fair to good. Look for fish to be spread out through the lower river below Hwy 30.
KILCHIS RIVER: steelhead
Winter steelhead angling has been fair. Fish are spread out through the river. The water conditions have been good most of the time.
NECANICUM RIVER: steelhead
Winter steelhead angling has been fair to good. Fish are distributed throughout the river. Boaters should use extreme caution. Log and debris jams may be present in one or more locations. The Kloochy Cr. Park bridge is closed to vehicle access.
NEHALEM RIVER:
The Nehalem River Road is closed at the Salmonberry River. Flood waters blew out the bridge over the Salmonberry. Use alternate routes.
NORTH FORK NEHALEM RIVER: steelhead
Angling for winter steelhead is fair, with some short periods of good fishing when the river drops between storms. Best angling is below the hatchery; however more fish have been caught upstream recently. Boaters beware-downed trees or other hazards are creating problems. Anglers may call (503) 368-5670 for recorded fishing information.
NESTUCCA RIVER AND THREE RIVERS: steelhead
Winter steelhead angling is fair in Three Rivers. The mainstem has been high and off color most of the time, but has had some fishable days since the New Year. Angling was fair. Hatchery fish are available in Three Rivers and the mainstem up to Blaine. Hatchery fish are being recycled to Cloverdale on a regular basis. A few wild fish are showing in the catch also.
SALMON RIVER: winter steelhead
Wild winter steelhead are starting to return in small numbers-better numbers are expected to start showing in January. Catch-and-release fishing can be good using lures, jigs and egg-type flies.
SILETZ RIVER: winter steelhead
Winter steelhead are being caught throughout the river. Drift boat angling has been the most productive so far, fishing from Moonshine Park down to Morgan Park as river conditions allow. Bank fishing around Moonshine Park and the lower gorge is starting to pick up with anglers having fair to good success. Floating and/or back bouncing fresh baits, jigs and lures can be very productive. During high murky river conditions, anglers should concentrate in the upper basin as fish will continue to move upstream.
Current river levels and forecasts: http://www.nwrfc.noaa.gov/river/station/flowplot/flowplot.cgi?SILO3
SIUSLAW RIVER: winter steelhead
Winter steelhead are beginning to show up and be caught in the mid to lower river. High and murky river conditions are making angling difficult. Anglers should concentrate in the upper basin as conditions improve faster and fish continue to move upstream. Drift boat angling is the most productive early on as more water can be covered. Drifting or back bouncing fresh bait, jigs or other lures can be very productive.
Current river levels and forecasts: http://www.nwrfc.noaa.gov/river/station/flowplot/flowplot.cgi?MPLO3
TILLAMOOK BAY: sturgeon
Angling for sturgeon should be good. Fish the channel edges on the outgoing tides for the best results.
WILSON RIVER: steelhead
The river continues to be muddy most of the time. Check river conditions before heading out. The lower river cleared for a day or two last week and fishing was good, however the river muddied up again after another rain event. Plunking large, visible lures along travel seams could produce a few fish in the murky water. The river upstream from the North Fork is clearer and a few winter steelhead are being caught.
TRASK RIVER: steelhead
A log jam is blocking the river at the railroad bridge. Do not attempt to float downstream of Lorens Drift. Winter steelhead angling is fair when river conditions allow. Fish higher in the system for best results.
Current river levels for major north coast streams are available at: http://ahps2.wrh.noaa.gov/ahps2/index.php?wfo=pqr
YAQUINA RIVER: winter steelhead
Winter steelhead are starting to show in decent numbers. The best option is to fish Big Elk Creek starting just above tidewater all the way to the fishing deadline bridge at Grant Creek. Bank fishing works the best along the Big Elk using a variety of lures, jigs and egg-type flies. There is a mixture of public and private lands along this stretch, anglers should use caution to avoid crossing private property.
NORTHWEST ZONE HUNTING
Visit the region's Fall Hunting Forecast
http://www.dfw.state.or.us/RR/hunting_forecast/2007_fall_northwest.asp
OPEN: Duck, goose (most of NW Oregon Permit zone closes Jan. 13), blue grouse, ruffed grouse, California quail, mountain quail, cougar, crow
Forest grouse and mountain quail
Look for these birds while they search for their meal of seeds, insects and grit along graveled roads in the forest. Hunters targeting the blue grouse should look in upper elevations, especially forested areas on ridge tops. Ruffed grouse are more common along stream bottoms and mid-slope areas. Mountain quail should be found in older, brushy clear cuts, especially on south facing slopes, and tend to be more abundant in the eastern half of the coast range than the western half. ODFW staff observed higher than average number of grouse and moderate numbers of mountain quail on summer surveys in the Coast range.
Waterfowl
Duck season on the north coast tends to be better when there is freezing weather in the Willamette Valley, pushing more birds to the coast. Dry periods tend to enhance hunting on coastal bays as there is less water in fields and pastures to disperse feeding birds. Currently, there are good numbers of mallards, wigeon, pintails and diving ducks on north coast estuaries. Generally, the weather usually plays a large role in the success of hunters on a given day, with the best conditions being on the onset of storms when birds are leaving the large water bodies and seeking shelter in vegetated areas along the edges of estuaries and lakes. Goose hunting reopened in Tillamook County for Northwest Oregon Special Permit holders on Dec. 15 and runs on Saturdays and Sundays thereafter through early March. Check the game bird regulations for special closures, bag limit, checkout and other information regarding goose hunting on the north coast.
Cougar
All indicators point to the north coast as having relatively low cougar densities, when compared to most of the rest of the state. However, they can still be located, especially if hunters are dedicated to using calls as their primary strategy. Cugar are probably most effectively hunted by long and persistent calling with a predator call. Hunters continuing to hunt cougar into 2008 are reminded to get their new cougar tag and 2008 hunting license.
NORTHWEST ZONE VIEWING
EVENTS
Elk Programs at the Tillamook Forest Center, Jan. 12, 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.
In the Tillamook State Forest, it is always a delight to catch a glimpse of Roosevelt elk. Come discover how these majestic animals adapt to the ever-changing forest environment and what they are doing during the winter months. Naturalists will also share ideas on where and how to improve your chances of an elk sighting. For information.
Winter activity at OSU Hatfield Marine Science Center, Jan. 12, 11:30 a.m.
Flotsam Fest: "Flotsam"," "jetsam" and "wrack" are words that mean more or less the same thing-items washed onto the beach from the open sea. Some of these materials, such as ropes and fishing line, have the potential to be hazardous to wildlife. At 11:30 a.m., learn about the dangers of sea lion entanglement in debris. For more information on this event and others, visit OSU Hatfield Marine Science Center's Web site.
North Coast
Resolve to get outdoors in 2008
Take a hike in Ecola State Park near Cannon Beach
Stop for a picnic-or hot chocolate in Cannon Beach-to fuel your group of adventurers before taking to the many miles of trails at Ecola State Park. At Indian Beach you can begin your own expedition on The Clatsop Loop Trail (pdf), an interpretive trail you that gives you the chance to walk in the footsteps of Capt. Clark and his men. A number of other hikes (pdf) in the park offer a variety of spectacular viewpoints. Watch for birds along the way. The park is accessible from northern end of Cannon Beach. Visit Ecola State Park's Web site for more information.
Watch for Whales
From mid-December to mid-January, about 18,000 gray whales will pass the Oregon coast on the way from Alaska to Mexico. Most whales stay about 5 miles off shore, but some can be seen as close as 1-2 miles off shore. So, binoculars and spotting scopes are very helpful!
Excellent viewing areas on the north coast include Ecola State Park and Silver Point near Cannon Beach, Oswald West State Park, both Cape Falcon and Neah-Kah-Nie Mountain near Manzanita, Cape Meares State Park and National Wildlife Refuge near Oceanside, Cape Lookout State Park near Netarts, and Cape Kiwanda State Park near Pacific City. Best viewing occurs on days with relatively calm oceans and good weather. For more information, http://whalespoken.org/
Bald Eagle Viewing is Good
The winter season is a great time to see bald eagles. On the north coast, bald eagles can be seen in estuaries such as Tillamook Bay, Young's Bay and Netarts Bay. Three Arch Rocks, Sand Lake and Twilight Eagle Sanctuary are also good viewing locations. To get started, look for a white spot among the tall conifers at the edge of the bay. The white spot will be the eagle's white feathered head. Bald eagles are often found near water with large numbers of waterfowl or fish.
When viewing eagles, stay in your vehicle if possible, unless you're watching from an observation deck or viewing platform. As with many wildlife species, your car acts as an excellent blind. Movement from people toward a perched eagle may chase it off its roost. Flying takes away from the needed energy an eagle requires to survive in the cold winter temperatures.
Astoria Area
Twilight Eagle Sanctuary
Twilight Eagle Sanctuary, located east of Astoria off of Hwy 30, is not only a haven for bald eagles but also for numerous water-loving birds. The Wolf Bay area is currently host to a variety of ducks, including both divers and dabblers. At lower tides, shorebirds can be seen feeding on the mudflats. Bring your binoculars, or better yet, your spotting scope.
Pacific City Area
Sand Lake
Sand Lake is a relatively undeveloped estuary, north of Pacific City. Whalen Island, which sits in the middle of the estuary, is home to the Clay Myers State Natural Area. Not only can you see loons, grebes, shorebirds, ducks, geese and other water-loving birds in the estuary, the island also has a short and easy trail through the uplands portion where resident and wintering songbirds can be seen. Also, keep your eyes on the tall conifers surrounding the estuary for wintering bald eagles. The adults are actually easy to spot, with their white heads, against the dark green foliage of the trees.
For more information on the estuary visit the Coastal Atlas Web site.
Nestucca Bay National Wildlife Refuge
Nestucca Bay National Wildlife Refuge is located just south of Pacific City along Hwy. 101. If you're a Canada goose enthusiast, here you can see a variety of races of geese, both resident and migratory ones. The best viewing is right along Hwy. 101 in the fields that the refuge staff keep managed for grazing geese and other wildlife.
For more information.
Seaside Area
Jewell Meadows Wildlife Area
Elk viewing continues to be excellent at Jewell Meadows Wildlife Area. Most of the 215 resident elk can be seen on a daily basis along Hwy 202 or along Beneke Road. Viewing should remain good throughout the winter months with best viewing times from about 9:00 a.m. to noon.
Bald eagles have been observed soaring over the meadows in recent weeks. Look for eagles perched in tall trees adjacent to the fields and near creeks.
Jewell Meadows Wildlife Area is located near Seaside along Hwy 202.
Tillamook Area
Tillamook Bay
Tillamook Bay is an excellent place to see some uncommon waterfowl because of its many diverse habitats and the surrounding landscape. Near the mouth of the bay, Harlequin ducks can sometimes be seen from the north jetty parking lot near Barview. Thousands of American wigeon can usually be seen on the south or upper end of the bay. Careful observation will usually reveal the rare Eurasian wigeon. The males of the species can be distinguished from the more common American wigeon by its dark rufus-colored head and buffy forehead.
Cape Meares Lake
Cape Meares Lake, located west of Tillamook on Bayocean Spit, is a spot to find migrating waterbirds such as grebes, coots and loons. Occasionally, bald eagles can be seen roosting in the tall spruce trees just south of the lake. Recent observations have shown that some migrating ducks from the north have arrived, and the lake is a favorite hangout of canvasbacks and, occasionally, sea ducks.
SOUTHWEST ZONE
FISHING
Resolve to get outdoors in 2008
Reports are that crabbing from docks has been good along the coast, where there are public docks in Winchester Bay, Bandon, Charleston, or Empire. Your kids will enjoy sorting out the smaller crab from the catch.
APPLEGATE RIVER: APPLEGATE RIVER: trout, steelhead
The Applegate River is open for adipose fin-clipped trout and steelhead. Trout fishing was good before last weekend's storms. Angling should improve as flows drop.
Reservoir outflows can be monitored at the Copper USGS stream flow gauge (#14362000) at http://waterdata.usgs.gov. Much of the river is in private ownership, so anglers must use caution and always avoid trespassing. Cantrall Buckley Park and Fish Hatchery Park are prime fishing sites.
APPLEGATE RESERVOIR: rainbow trout
As of Monday morning, the outflow was 603 cubic feet per second and 40 degrees. Applegate Reservoir provides an opportunity for winter trout angling in the Rogue Valley. Anglers using bait can expect the best success, such as trolling a spinner and worm combination. Anglers are reminded that the flood control reservoir will be at low pool for most of the winter. The French Gulch boat ramp is available in winter, at reservoir levels below 1940 feet. Current reservoir levels can be obtained at 1-800-472-2434.
BABYFOOT LAKE: rainbow trout
No new report
CHETCO RIVER: steelhead
Steelhead fishing has been excellent. Boat anglers and bank anglers have been reporting multiple fish days. Anglers need to keep an eye on the weather and river flows for best results. Two of the best bank angling spots for plunkers are Social Security Bar and Loeb State Park. Drift boat anglers will want to hit the river once it reaches 4000 cfs and dropping. Anglers can keep an eye on the flow by looking at http://waterdata.usgs.gov/or/nwis/uv?14400000.
ODFW will be collecting wild steelhead for the Chetco River winter steelhead hatchery program. At times this effort will interfere with fishing, but collecting wild steelhead is important for maintaining the Chetco River winter steelhead hatchery program. ODFW thanks anglers for their cooperation.
COOS COUNTY LAKES: trout, bass
Fishing may slow in local lakes during the winter, but fish are still available. Besides holdover trout from previous stockings, most local lakes hold warmwater fish species such as bass, bluegill and crappie.
COOS RIVER BASIN: winter steelhead
Steelhead fishing has been good in the Coos basin when river conditions cooperate. The West Fork Millicoma has good public access on the Elliott State Forest where many steelhead are caught. This fork will come back into shape quickly after high water periods. The Millicoma Interpretive Center has a small section of closed water in front of the facility with fishable water downstream. 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 an acclimation site near mile 5 where fish will hold.
COQUILLE RIVER BASIN: winter steelhead
Steelhead fishing should be good when river conditions are favorable. Laverne Park on the North Fork has had some good days recently and provides good bank access for anglers. The South Fork, which is popular with drift boaters and also has some bank access, should be good when water levels drop; it fishes best when the Powers gauge is below 4 ft. The East Fork has steelhead returning to an acclimation site near Frona Park. The Middle Fork Coquille does not have a hatchery program but is a nice place for anglers wanting more solitude that don't mind releasing their fish.
DIAMOND LAKE: rainbow trout
The lake is closed to fishing until April 26, 2008.
ELK/SIXES RIVER: steelhead, fall Chinook
Steelhead are showing up in good numbers. The weather and river height play an important role in fishing success. Elk River has been fishing the best. Elk River several days before Sixes River and with the recent storms, Sixes River has been tough to fish. Drift boat anglers will fair the best until river flows drop enough for bank anglers. Elk River fishes best at 5.0 feet and dropping. Anglers can call Elk River Hatchery (541-332-7025) to get the latest gage heights.
EMIGRANT RESERVOIR: rainbow trout
Bass fishing will be slow until the weather begins to warm up but there is an opportunity for winter trout angling in the Rogue Valley. The reservoir is deep enough for holdover trout. Anglers using bait can expect the best success, such as trolling a spinner and worm combination. Due to the orientation of the lake, winter winds can be strong at Emigrant, so anglers should track weather conditions.
FISH LAKE: rainbow trout
With angling pressure low, Fish Lake is a good place to fish in the winter for trout. Try bait, spinners, and lures. Anglers should be prepared for winter conditions and varying levels of ice coverage; thin ice can be very dangerous.
GALESVILLE RESERVIOR: rainbow trout, bass
Galesville Reservoir is open to angling year-round. Fishing for trout is currently fair. Some anglers report seeing external "worms" on a few of the trout, and in some trout's gills. These are copepods, a fish parasite, which occur naturally throughout the watershed. The copepods can be removed and the fish safely consumed. The harvestable trout were 10n12 inches.
GARRISON LAKE: trout
Garrison is a good bet for rainbow trout and cutthroat. Bank access is limited to the State Park or 12th street boat ramp. The best way to fish Garrison is slow trolling wedding ring spinners or flies. Anglers should keep an eye on the weather and target the lake when winds are light.
LAKE SELMAC: rainbow trout
Lake Selmac provides an opportunity for winter trout angling in the Illinois Valley. Anglers using bait can expect the best success, such as trolling a spinner and worm combination.
LOST CREEK RESERVOIR: rainbow trout
This is a good place to fish for trout all winter. The reservoir was stocked the first week in October with 7,500 legal sized rainbow trout. Try fishing upstream of the Hwy 62 Bridge at the East end of the lake. Bank anglers have had some success recently catching rainbow trout on small spinners while casting near the marina.
PACIFIC OCEAN AND BEACHES: bottomfish
Bottom fishing is generally good in the winter when the water conditions are calm. Very little effort has occurred recently due to rough seas. Anglers should be cautious of the ocean and bar conditions which can change quickly.
POWERS POND: trout, warmwater fish
Holdover trout are available as well as warmwater fish that are present all year.
ROGUE RIVER, LOWER: fall chinook, steelhead
Steelhead fishing has been excellent. Anglers fishing spin and glows close to the bank reported mixed catches of wild and hatchery steelhead prior to the recent storms. Anglers can keep an eye on Rogue River flows at http://waterdata.usgs.gov/or/nwis/uv?14372300. Bank anglers will fair best when flows hit 8,000 n 9,000 cfs and dropping.
ROGUE RIVER, MIDDLE: steelhead, trout
The flow on Jan. 7 was 7,200 cubic feet per second at Grants Pass and the water is muddy. Prior to the storms, fishing was slow and pressure was light. Anglers were catching steelhead on plugs and lures in the Griffin Park area.
ROGUE RIVER, UPPER: trout, steelhead, chinook
The outflow from Lost Creek Reservoir was 2,146 cubic feet per second and the outflow temperature was 40 as of Monday morning.
Steelhead anglers should target riffles, runs, and slots, though fish can be found in a variety of waters. Only adipose fin-clipped steelhead, trout, and chinook salmon may be harvested. 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.
ROGUE RIVER, UPPER: steelhead, trout
No new report for this week but fishing has been slow throughout the upper river, though anglers are still catching some late summer steelhead. The number of summer steelhead over Gold Ray increased to 7,495 as of December 20. The outflow from Lost Creek Reservoir was 1718 cubic feet per second and the outflow temperature was 42F as of Monday morning.
Winter steelhead are normally caught in the upper river above Gold Ray Dam from February through mid-May, with peak fishing activity occurring in March and early April. Bank angling access in this stretch is good. 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. The river gets smaller in this section, with more defined holes.
The area just below Cole Rivers Hatchery usually remains fishable when the rest of the river is rendered not fishable by storm events. Drifting bait, casting lures, and back-trolling plugs are all popular techniques. Later in the season, fly fishing can be very productive.
SODA SPRINGS RESERVOIR: brown and rainbow trout
Soda Springs reservoir is open for trout angling, but tributaries upstream of the reservoir are closed to angling until April 26, 2008.
SMITH RIVER: steelhead
The Smith is currently open for adipose-fin clipped steelhead from the mouth upstream to Sisters Creek on the mainstem and the North Fork Smith from the mouth upstream to Bridge 10. Fairly good numbers of steelhead have been counted crossing the falls.
SOUTH COAST LAKES AND PONDS: trout
Fishing is slow on all lakes and ponds.
SOUTH COAST STREAMS: steelhead
Trout season is closed in the Umpqua, Smith River, South Umpqua, North Umpqua and Cow Creek basins.
SOUTH COAST BEACHES:
No report.
TENMILE BASIN: yellow perch, trout, largemouth bass, winter steelhead, warmwater fish
Steelhead have been showing up in Tenmile Creek with fish being caught in Spinreel Park and below. Spinreel Park has good bank access. Anglers willing to walk the sand dunes downstream will find additional space and good chances at catching fish. This lake fed system is often clear and fishable when other local waters are high and muddy.
Tenmile Lakes are open year-round, and holdover fish are available. Warmwater fish species such as bluegill and crappie are in Tenmile Lakes. Although the bite will be slower this time of year, warmwater fish can still be caught in cooler temperatures. Anglers should slow their presentation for warmwater fish during the winter (e.g. if using a lure such as crankbait/spinnerbait, slow the retrieve and allow it to settle more).
TOKETEE LAKE: brown trout
Fishing is open in Toketee all year round. Fishing has been slow but the best fishing occurs early in the morning.
UMPQUA ESTUARY: sturgeon
No new report.
UMPQUA HIGH LAKES AND FOREBAYS: trout
No new report. Diamond Lake and Lemolo Lake are closed starting Nov. 1. The other high cascade lakes are open year-round.
UMPQUA RIVER MAINSTEM: shad, bass, chinook, steelhead
Some nice steelhead are being caught in the mainstem. Plunking will be the best fishing technique until the river starts dropping and clearing. The steelhead will also start responding better once the water temperatures warm. Remember that as of Jan. 1, 2008, the mainstem Umpqua is closed to wild steelhead harvest; it remains open year-round for adipose fin-clipped steelhead.
UMPQUA RIVER, NORTH: steelhead
The North has remained fishable despite all the rain, partly due to the cold weather which has lowered the freezing level elevation. The fish will be more active as the water warms. Remember that only adipose fin-clipped steelhead can be harvested on the North Umpqua.
UMPQUA RIVER, SOUTH: steelhead
The South Umpqua is open for adipose fin-clipped steelhead only.
Fishing is slow, but anglers should have the most success in the lower sections. Fishing for steelhead will continue to improve as the season progresses and more fish move upstream. As the fish move into the river, there are good bank angling opportunities at Templeton Beach, the Myrtle Creek bridge, Stanton Park, and behind Seven Feather Casino. With the high, muddy flows, plunking from the bank will be the best technique for steelhead fishing.
WINCHESTER BAY: sturgeon, chinook
Fishing remains slow.
SHELLFISH
The entire Oregon coast is open for recreational shellfishing. ALWAYS CHECK FOR HEALTH ADVISORIES by calling the Oregon Department of Agriculture's Shellfish line at 1-800-448-2474 for updates.
More information about razor clams and current status of particular areas: http://www.dfw.state.or.us/MRP/shellfish/razorclams
The next few months are a great time for crabbing. Dock crabbers have been reporting some success. Crabbing from public docks or boat if available is a great opportunity for families to catch a delicious dinner. Kids often enjoy sorting out the smaller crab that can be abundant. Crab are generally full of meat and available in good numbers in coastal bays. 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.
Additional information about crabbing: http://www.dfw.state.or.us/MRP/shellfish/crab/index.asp
ALWAYS CHECK FOR HEALTH ADVISORIES by calling the Oregon Department of Agriculture's Shellfish line at 1-800-448-2474 for updates.
More information about razor clams and current status of particular areas: http://www.dfw.state.or.us/MRP/shellfish/razorclams
Information about bay clams: http://www.dfw.state.or.us/MRP/shellfish/bayclams/
SOUTHWEST ZONE HUNTING
OPEN: Forest grouse, cougar, California quail, mountain quail, waterfowl
Visit the Southwest Fall Hunting Forecast
http://www.dfw.state.or.us/RR/hunting_forecast/2007_fall_southwest.asp
Douglas County
BIG GAME:
Deer - A few controlled hunts are open. Deer populations are similar to last year.
Elk - A few controlled hunts are open. Elk populations are similar to last year.
Cougar n Opened on January 1, 2008. Best cougar hunting is usually found adjacent to private land with high deer populations.
UPLAND GAMEBIRDS:
Grouse & Quail n The season is currently open. Blue grouse success is best in mid to high elevations of the Cascades in partly open conifer stands. Ruffed grouse can be found near creeks mostly at mid elevations of both the Cascades and Coast Range. Success is best in the lower elevation agricultural lands for California quail and mid-elevations of the Cascades and Coast Range near brushy clear cuts on secondary forest roads for Mountain quail. The season ends for these species on January 31, 2008.
MIGRATORY GAMEBIRDS:
Waterfowl - The season for ducks, geese, snipe and coot is currently open. Hunting ducks and geese in Douglas County should be very good because of an excellent local production and good migratory numbers this year. Nearly all waterfowl hunting in the Umpqua Valley is on private property and hunters should obtain landowner permission before hunting. The season ends for waterfowl on January 27, 2008.
Crow n The season is currently open. Hunters can expect an average year. Crow are abundant and widely distributed on the Umpqua Valley floor. Hunting crow is a challenge with most being on or adjacent to private lands. The season ends for crow on January 31, 2008.
TRAPPING & HUNTING:
Furbearers n A reminder to trappers and hunters that specific licenses and tags are required to hunt many furbearer species. Refer to the Oregon Furbearer Trapping and Hunting Regulations for details.
Bobcat, Red & Gray Fox - Healthy populations throughout Western Oregon.
River Otter, Beaver & Raccoon n Healthy populations throughout Western Oregon. The last day of the season for these species is March 15, 2008.
Mink & Muskrat - Healthy populations throughout Western Oregon. The last day of the season for mink and muskrat is March 31, 2008.
Marten n Good populations at higher elevations of the Cascades. The season ends January 31, 2008.
JACKSON, JOSEPHINE, CURRY COUNTIES
Deer n Youth controlled deer riffle season had above average season, snows provided great tracking opportunities and also kept deer in lower elevations.
Elk - Youth controlled elk rifle season had above average season, snows provided great tracking opportunities and pushed elk into lower elevations. A controlled archery hunt is open until Jan. 13; hunters have an advantage with low snow levels for tracking and stalking. A few controlled hunts for damage issues will go on through March.
Cougar: Cougars are plentiful, although they are a challenge to locate and harvest. Now is a good time for cougar hunting; recent snows have helped in locating cougar tracks. Hunters are also having success in using predator calls for cougars while hunting coyotes. Locate major ridge lines and rocky out cropping as areas of travel within their home range.
Western Gray Squirrel: Portion of the Rogue unit is open year round with no bag limit; refer to regulations for more detail. Squirrels are found throughout this unit with only a few hunters taking advantage of this hunting opportunity. Squirrels will be found throughout the winter months in oak savanna habitat to conifer habitat types. Squirrel hunting is a great opportunity for young hunters to hone their hunting skills.
Grouse and Quail: The season is open until Jan. 31, 2008. Successful hunters are locating grouse and quail along closed forest roads and favorable habitat types. Look for ruffed grouse in timbered creeks and blue grouse on high mountain ridges. Mountain quail will be located in mid-elevation brush fields and California quail will be found in low elevation brush fields. The use of dogs will aid greatly in retrieval of these well camouflaged birds.
Waterfowl:
Hunter success will depend on storms to make birds fly and bring more birds into the area. Public waters are limited in the area, with the Rogue River and public lakes and reservoirs open. All fields on Denman Wildlife Area are flooded and the area rarely freezes up completely. Hunting conditions have varied with appearances by migrating birds sporadic. Through the end of waterfowl season, the Hall Tract is open Saturday, Sunday, Wednesday only. Other tracts are open every day.
TRAPPING AND HUNTING:
Furbearers: 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, Red and Gray Fox: Healthy populations throughout Western Oregon.
River Otter, Beaver and Raccoon: Healthy populations throughout Western Oregon. The last day of the season for these species is March 15, 2008.
Mink and Muskrat: Healthy populations throughout Western Oregon. The last day of the season for mink and muskrat is March 31, 2008.
Marten: Good populations at higher elevations of the Cascades. The last day of the season is January 31, 2008.
COOS COUNTY
COUGAR
Cougar populations appear to be healthy in Coos County. Cougars are very elusive and use very large home ranges so they represent a supreme challenge for hunters. To locate them, take clues from their prey (deer and elk). In areas with high densities of deer and elk, you may find success attracting cougars with predator calls. Cougar season continues through May, but hunters will have to purchase a 2008 cougar tag to hunt in the new year.
UPLAND BIRDS
Hunting closed roads and creek bottoms for grouse and ridge tops for mountain quail should prove effective to the persistent hunter.
Waterfowl
Recent heavy rain has flooded all local inland valleys. This causes waterfowl to spread out. Hunting opportunity spreads as well. Typically, fields flooded with less that one foot of water are the most productive because dabbling ducks are more able to reach their food in shallower waters. Seaducks are numerous in local bays so targeting these species may be productive. As the season advances, more diving ducks will move in to the area too.
Trapping and Hunting
Winter is a good time to hunt or trap furbearer species (generally hunted for their fur). There are many species to choose from. Some are predatory animals while others are herbivorous. Some are aquatic and others live on land. Coos County has many opportunities for hunting or trapping these species. Hunters or trappers interested in taking advantage of the many opportunities should contact their local ODFW office for information on these species and on the regulations pertaining to pursuing them.
SOUTHWEST ZONE VIEWING
EVENTS
Shoreline Education for Awareness Events for 2008, Charleston
From January through May, SEA Seminars will be held every second Tuesday on subjects that range from marine mammals to coastal birds to geology to fisheries. For more information, visit the SEA Website.
Resolve to get outdoors in 2008
Charleston/Coos Bay area: Take an easy 4-mile hike (one way) along the coast. Oregon Coast Trail (Sunset Bay to Cape Arago). After winding along the coast you'll come to the Simpson Reef/Shell Island overlook, a great place to see sea lions and harbor seals. The trail then crosses the road and begins on the other side, crossing back after a little ways and continuing to Cape Arago State Park. For more information on this hike, visit the Coos Regional Trail Web site. For other hiking and biking trails in the area, visit their home page.
Coos County
Simpson Reef, located near Charleston, has a large congregation of wintering Steller sea lions, California sea lions and harbor seals. Visit the Marine Protected Areas of the US Web site for more information on this site which supports a rich and diverse community of intertidal animals.
Uncommon birds visit south coast
Often with incoming storms come uncommon visitors to the south coast. Vigilant bird watchers should pay attention to local bays and ocean beach areas for seabirds that end up moving closer to shore as a result of the storms.
Waterfowl viewing
Due to recent heavy rain local inland valleys are full of water. This spreads waterfowl out, providing viewing opportunities in most areas. Often edges of flooded fields are very attractive to these birds.
Many sea ducks winter in local bays. Along with the fact that some of these birds are very colorful, they can be entertaining to watch diving in the surf zone feeding on invertebrates and vegetation. Viewers need to be cautious around beaches because dangerous large waves and strong currents are the norm this time of year.
Douglas County
Songbirds
Winter songbirds including western bluebirds can be seen at Stewart Park and Stewart Park trail in Roseburg. Viewing is best in the late morning to early afternoon.
According to the Cornell Lab of Ornithology Web site, the western bluebird is a common sight in parklands of the West, preferring open forests to large meadows.
Winter Raptors
Wintering raptors, especially red-tail hawks, are now being seen along highways throughout the county.
Bald Eagles
Bald Eagles are now commonly seen along the mainstem portion of the Umpqua River from Roseburg to Reedsport.
Remember nongame wildlife at tax time
When completing your taxes for calendar year 2007, don't forget to make your donation to the nongame tax checkoff on your Oregon tax return. Support Oregon's nongame wildlife.
CENTRAL ZONE
FISHING
CROOKED RIVER MAINSTEM: rainbow trout
No new reports.
CROOKED RIVER BELOW BOWMAN DAM: redband trout
Mixed reports from anglers indicating some success for redband. ODFW and OSU have initiated a radio telemetry study on redband trout and whitefish, and anglers are reminded that radio-tagged fish cannot be legally harvested. To determine if a fish is radio-tagged, anglers should check for an eight-inch wire antenna protruding from the rear of both redband and mountain whitefish.
DESCHUTES RIVER:
Remember the entire Deschutes River is closed to the retention of fall chinook at this time.
Sherars Falls to Warm Springs n Trout anglers will be successful by using nymphs. Water temperatures are cold and fewer bug hatches are occurring. Steelhead are in this section in good numbers and water temperatures and clarity are still good for steelhead fishing. Anglers are also reminded that the Deschutes River upstream from the northern boundary of the Warms Springs Reservation closed to angling December 31, 2007 and will reopen April 26, 2008.
Mouth to Sherars Falls n Steelhead anglers are reporting decent catches, as effort on the river has declined significantly. Anglers are encouraged to fish in water that is a little slower this time of the year as water temperatures are colder and fish prefer these softer areas in the river.
DESCHUTES RIVER: Lake Billy Chinook to Benham Falls:
No anglers were interviewed as basis for a report. Please note that recent increased flow makes this stretch a little more of a challenge for anglers.
FALL RIVER:
Angling is reported to be fair. Remember angling is closed downstream the falls.
HAYSTACK RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, brown trout
No recent reports.
HOOD RIVER: summer steelhead, winter steelhead, fin clipped coho
Steelhead fishing has been improving on the Hood River, with a few fresh run winter steelhead beginning to be caught. Cold temperatures have improved water quality, but cool temperatures are keeping fish from moving into the river. Anglers are reminded that chinook angling is closed and coho must be fin-clipped for retention. Trout fishing is closed.
LAKE BILLY CHINOOK: Bull trout, brown trout, rainbow trout, kokanee, smallmouth bass
Reports are that a few hearty anglers are having some success for bull trout on the Crooked River arm and Deschutes River arm. There is opportunity for bull trout, brown trout and kokanee on the Deschutes River and Crooked River arms. Please note that the Metolius arm of the reservoir is closed to angling for the season. The recommended boat launching facility is the upper Deschutes arm ramp of the reservoir.
METOLIUS RIVER:
No recent reports.
OCHOCO RESERVOIR: rainbow trout
The reservoir is icing over and not fishable at this time.
PINE HOLLOW RESERVOIR: rainbow trout
No recent reports, but fall and early winter fishing can be productive at Pine Hollow.
PRINEVILLE RESERVOIR: rainbow trout
The reservoir is icing over and not fishable at this time.
ROCK CREEK RESERVOIR: rainbow trout
Low reservoir level will limit both access and success.
CENTRAL ZONE HUNTING
Visit the region's Fall Hunting Forecast
http://www.dfw.state.or.us/RR/hunting_forecast/2007_fall_high_desert.asp
Open: Waterfowl, California quail (closed in Morrow Co.), chukar (closed in Morrow Co.), mountain quail (open Hood River and Wasco counties only) cougar (new tag needed Jan. 1), crow
Ochoco Wildlife District
Snow accumulations have increased with many forest roads impassable at higher elevations. Recreational users should expect icy driving conditions, be equipped for winter conditions, and check with local authorities regarding road conditions. Motorized access restrictions associated with the South Boundary Green Dot Travel Management Area (TMA) in the Ochoco unit remain in effect year-round. Maps are available at portal signs as you enter the TMA, or from local ODFW and forest service offices. Additional areas on the Ochoco National Forest and Prineville BLM have seasonal winter motorized access restrictions effect to prevent soil damage and protect wintering antelope, deer, and elk. Maps of these areas are available from forest service and BLM offices in Prineville.
Prineville Reservoir Wildlife Management Area: The area is open to non-motorized access only to protect wintering deer and elk and prevent soil damage. Walk-in hunters, anglers, and other outdoor enthusiasts are welcome.
Cougar: Deer are on winter ranges and cougar can be expected to be nearby. Winter ranges include private lands and hunters need permission prior to hunting.
Coyote: Look for concentrations of wintering deer and pronghorn, and coyotes are likely nearby. Wintering deer and pronghorn are concentrating at lower elevations, including BLM lands in both the Ochoco and Maury units. Coyote hunters should keep a watchful eye out for cougars which also respond to predator calls.
Valley quail: Numbers are declining, with the best opportunities on mixed range and agricultural lands throughout Crook and Jefferson Counties. Springs, stream areas, and other rangelands with cover and water on the Crooked River National Grasslands and BLM lands would also be places to check.
Chukar: Populations are limited, with areas along the Crooked, Deschutes, and John Day Rivers offering the best opportunities. Much of this area is private land where permission from the landowner is needed.
Waterfowl: Access is a challenge as most of the better hunting is on private lands. There are limited opportunities on public land around Prineville Res., and along the Crooked River.
The Dalles Wildlife District
Now that winter has settled in the region, coyote hunting is at its peak. The best areas in the district are private agricultural lands near the forest boundary. Opportunities can also be found on wildlife area lands near the town of Wamic. Make sure to ask permission before hunting private ground.
Hunters wishing to pursue cougar should focus their efforts in areas where big game populations are found
Waterfowl season is open within the district. The majority of waterfowl hunting opportunities are present on private lands, with a few exceptions along the Columbia and Deschutes rivers.
Upland game birds are found throughout the district. Bird production was fair in the area this year, with populations being at or near the ten year average. Public access can be found on the Lower Deschutes and White River Wildlife areas, as well as BLM property in the Deschutes and John Day canyons. Be aware that bird hunting is prohibited within ¼ mile of the John Day River from the Columbia upstream to Thirtymile Creek.
CENTRAL ZONE VIEWING
EVENTS
Winter Raptor Viewing with the Central Oregon Audubon Society, Saturday, Jan. 26
The Central Oregon Audubon Society will host a field trip to the Fort Rock/Christmas Valley area to view wintering raptors. We'll meet at the South Albertson in Bend, just off of Highway 97, and carpool to the area. Trip departs 8 a.m. and returns about 4 p.m. Event is free and open to birders of any level. Contact Damian Fagan at dfagan@bendnet.com to RSVP or for more information.
Winter Wildlife Viewing
Winter weather has arrived-snow accumulations are increasing at higher elevations. All recreational users should expect icy driving conditions and be equipped for winter conditions. Most small ponds and water holes are frozen and snow blankets the ground with many forest roads impassable at higher elevations. Deer are on winter ranges, winter raptors are at their usual feeding areas and waterbirds are confined to open water areas.
Mule deer are on their winter range and a good place to observe them is the Fort Rock Valley south to Silver Lake and east to Christmas Valley. Herds of five to twenty deer or more are commonly seen. This area is also excellent for winter raptors. Agricultural lands and shrub land on the edge of the forest are good places to look for rough-legged hawks, red-tailed hawks, golden and bald eagles and prairie falcons. The wintering population of Red-tailed Hawks has more individual with dark phase plumage than is seen in the summer. A good field guide is helpful in sorting out the color phases of the raptors.
Winter range road closures are in effect on National Forests and BLM lands of Central Oregon. Main roads are open but side roads and less traveled roads may be closed to vehicle travel. Watch for signs and report violations to the nearest Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife or Oregon State Police office.
Prineville Area
This is a good time to view wintering mule deer, pronghorn and elk, and coyotes that are hoping to make a meal of them. Some of the better areas are accessible from the Paulina Highway east of Prineville on private lands along the Crooked River between the eastern end of Prineville Reservoir, to the town of Paulina, and north and east around Puett Rd. to the Paulina Ranger Station. Drivers need to turn south off of Hwy. 26 at the east side of Prineville, onto the Paulina highway, with the best viewing between milepost 20 and milepost 60. Approximately 4 miles east of Paulina proceed north to Paulina Ranger Station via Puett Road. Bring binoculars or a spotting scope for antelope and elk using the western slopes of Powell Mountain.
Animals are generally most visible in early morning or late afternoon, and drivers need to be careful of animals crossing the highway. This is approximately 180 miles round trip from Prineville and drivers should be prepared for winter driving conditions. In addition to big game, viewers will have opportunities to see coyotes, waterfowl, and a wide variety of birds of prey including bald and golden eagles, prairie falcon, red tail and rough leg hawks.
The Dalles, Mid-Columbia Region and Northern Wasco County
Winter conditions have settled on the area-wintering waterbirds and raptors can be seen throughout the district. For those who want to see wintering raptors, focus should be on agricultural areas, where red-tail and rough legged hawks are common, as well as kestrels, northern harriers, and prairie falcons. As viewers move nearer to major canyons, the occasional eagle may be seen.
For those in pursuit of waterbirds, focus your search near open water as smaller ponds and lakes have begun to freeze over with winter temperatures. Many areas along the Columbia can provide excellent viewing opportunities.
White River Wildlife Area is hosting migrating deer and elk. Visitors wishing to view wintering deer are best served in the Smock Prairie area, where deer will congregate in open meadows to feed, while those wishing to view elk are more likely to be successful in the Friend area.
Directions to the White River Wildlife Area, http://www.dfw.state.or.us/wildlifearea/whiteriver.htm
SOUTHEAST ZONE
FISHING
Winter conditions exist in Lake and Klamath County. Access is difficult; paved roads will be frozen with snow drifts on north facing slopes, primitive roads will alternate between frozen to muddy depending on weather conditions. Desert Reservoirs, Creeks and the High Lakes are icing up. Ice-fishing opportunities may be available late winter.
ANA RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, hybrid bass
Ana Reservoir will be open all year long for rainbow trout and hybrid bass. Fishing is good for Rainbow trout. Hybrid bass are being captured using bait just off the bottom. Most anglers fish from shore on the east shoreline at night.
ANA RIVER: rainbow trout
Ana River is open all year long; water temperatures tend to stay warmer due to spring input out of Ana Reservoir. This is a great place to fish during the winter. Angling for rainbow trout has been good. The river level is high. Rainbow trout can be very spooky so stealth is required. Bait angling is allowed and productive. Expect good hatches of various mayflies during cloudy weather. Tui chub and pit roach are abundant minnows in Ana River therefore LARGE minnow lures/flies can catch the larger rainbow trout while not catching as many little fingerling rainbow trout.
BEULAH RESERVOIR: redband trout, whitefish, bull trout
The reservoir was 17 percent full and inflow was 29 cfs on January 6. The reservoir is totally covered in thin ice. Fishing is poor.
BLITZEN RIVER: trout
Catch and release angling through the end of May. Angling should be slow for redband trout. With recent cold weather, anglers will have to deal with extensive ice. Flow fluctuated between approximately 9 and 100 cfs from December 31 through January 7. Flow was 34 cfs January 7.
BULLY CREEK RESERVOIR: bass, white crappie, yellow perch, catfish, and trout.
The reservoir was 18 percent full on January 6. Angling is poor.
BURNS POND: trout, bass
Watch for thin ice. Ice thickness can vary across any waterbody. Fair angling for 12 to 17 inch rainbow trout.
CHICKAHOMINY RESERVOIR: trout
Watch for thin ice. Test holes at several locations indicated that the ice was approximately 8 inches thick Dec. 31, but ice thickness can vary across any waterbody. Fair to good angling for 14 to 18 inch rainbow trout.
CHEWAUCAN RIVER: redband trout
Angling is closed below Paisley. Angling is slow for redband trout above Paisley. Much of the river is still frozen.
DELINTMENT LAKE: trout
Watch for thin ice. The lake is only accessible by snowmobile. Ice fishing should be good.
DOG LAKE: largemouth bass, yellow perch, black crappie, brown bullhead
The warm water fishery at Dog Lake has declined with cold weather. The lake is frozen and does offer ice fishing for yellow perch.
DUNCAN RESERVOIR: rainbow trout
Duncan Reservoir is likely frozen. Access to the reservoir is difficult in the winter due to snow. Hatchery rainbow trout are available. With water temperatures barely above freezing, fish feed infrequently. Bait and patience are the best technique for the winter months.
FISH LAKE (Steens Mountain): brook trout, rainbow trout
The north loop road is still closed for the winter. No recent angling report.
GERBER RESERVOIR: crappie, yellow perch, brown bullhead and largemouth bass
The reservoir is frozen. Anglers are ice fishing near the BLM boat ramp area. Yellow perch angling has been slow.
JUNIPER LAKE: cutthroat trout
The lake almost went dry this year, so the trout population was lost.
UPPER KLAMATH AND AGENCY LAKE: redband trout and yellow perch
The lake is still frozen. Angling for redband trout has been slow at the open water around the spring areas.
KLAMATH RIVER: rainbow-redband trout
Angling for wild redband trout is slow. Water temperature has cooled down to below 36 degrees which will slow catch rates. Wading below Keno dam is difficult as the water is turbid and the substrate is made of slick boulders. A wading staff, studded wading boots, and wading belt is recommended. Access is difficult due to snow and mud.
LAKE OF THE WOODS: rainbow trout, kokanee, brown trout, yellow perch, brown bullhead, largemouth bass, crappie, and smallmouth bass
Lake of the Woods is frozen. Ice fishing will be good for yellow perch later this winter. Contact Lake of the Woods Lodge at (1-866-201-4194) for recent angling update. The road into Lake of the Woods off Hwy 140 is closed by snow.
LINK RIVER: redband trout
Angling is slow as water temperatures are 32 degrees. Access is available along the entire west side and boats can be launched at Veterans Park and motored upstream to the powerhouse. The Link River is open year long.
MALHEUR RIVER (Warm Springs Reservoir downstream to South Fork Malheur River): redband trout and hatchery rainbow trout
Flow is very low in this stretch of the river is since there is little or no discharge from Warm Springs Reservoir. Discharge from Warm Springs Reservoir was 0 cfs on January 6. Angling is poor.
MALHEUR RIVER (from the South Fork Malheur River near Riverside, downstream to Gold Creek): redband trout and hatchery rainbow trout
Flow is very low in this stretch of the river since there is little or no discharge from Warm Springs Reservoir or Beulah Reservoir. Discharge from Warm Springs Reservoir was approximately 0 cfs, and discharge from Beulah Reservoir was 0 cfs on January 6. Angling is poor.
MALHEUR RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout
Watch for thin ice as there are no reports on ice thickness. The boat ramp is still in water. Water releases were shut-off in late September. Trout angling is poor.
MALHEUR RIVER, NORTH FORK: redband trout, whitefish, and bull trout
No recent angling report. Remember to release bull trout.
MALHEUR RIVER, MIDDLE FORK: redband trout, brook trout, and bull trout
No recent angling report. Remember to release bull trout.
MANN LAKE: trout
The lake was mostly covered with ice the week of December 31. There was a small open area offshore. No angling report available.
MOON RESERVOIR: bass, trout
Watch for thin ice. Test holes near the dam indicated that the ice was 5 to 5.5 inches thick on December 24, but ice thickness can vary. The reservoir is low. No recent angling report.
MURRAY RESERVOIR: trout
Ice fishing for rainbow trout has been good.
NORTH MALHEUR BLM STOCK PONDS: rainbow trout
Angling is expected to be poor. The reservoirs should be covered with ice. Thickness will vary with elevation. Roads are frozen.
OWYHEE RESERVOIR: largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, black crappie, yellow perch, catfish
The reservoir was 25 percent full January 6. The county ramp near the powerhouse and the ramp at the resort are still useable the other three are not. Angling is slow.
OWYHEE RIVER (Lower): brown trout and hatchery rainbow trout
Irrigation releases below the dam were shut-off on Oct. 12. Flow below Owyhee Dam remains about 28 cfs. Brown Trout probably have quite spawning, but anglers still need to be careful around spawning areas to protect redds. Angling for rainbow trout and brown trout is slow.
OWYHEE RIVER (Upper): smallmouth bass and channel catfish
Discharge at the Rome gauge averaged approximately 160 cfs on January 6. Angling for smallmouth and channel catfish is slow.
PAIUTE RESERVOIR: rainbow trout and Lahontan cutthroat trout
The reservoir is frozen. Ice fishing opportunities may be available late winter.
PHILLIPS RESERVOIR: trout, perch
No recent report, but fishing should be fair for trout and perch. Ice is on the lake but may not be safe yet. Use caution.
PILCHER RESERVOIR: trout
Should be good for ice fishing.
POLE CREEK RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout
The reservoir is covered. The water level at Pole Creek Reservoir is very near minimum. Trout angling is poor.
POWDER RIVER: trout, spring chinook
Fishing for rainbow trout is closed from HuntingtonnRichland road bridge to Hughes Lane bridge in Baker City. Above Hughes Lane to Phillips Reservoir is open to catch and release, and use of artificial flies and lures only.
SNAKE RIVER (Above Brownlee Reservoir): channel catfish, flathead catfish, smallmouth bass
Flow was 7,389 cfs near Nyssa and approximately 11,709 cfs near Weiser on January 6. Angling for catfish and smallmouth bass is slow. See Snake River zone report for more information about fishing opportunities.
SOUTH MALHEUR BLM STOCK PONDS: hatchery rainbow trout.
Angling is expected to be poor. The reservoirs should be covered with ice. Thickness will vary with elevation. Roads are frozen.
THIEF VALLEY RESERVOIR: trout
The reservoir is filling but fishing is expected to be slow for a few months. Fingerlings were stocked in October.
UNITY RESERVOIR: trout, bass, crappie
Ice fishing for rainbow trout has been good. The fish are running 12-14 inches. The water level is rising which can make ice unstable. Use caution.
WARM SPRINGS RESERVOIR: smallmouth bass, white crappie, catfish, perch, and hatchery rainbow trout
The reservoir was is 8 percent full and inflow at the Drewsey gauge averaged 75 cfs on January 6. Fishing is poor.
WOLF CREEK RESERVOIR: crappie, trout
Reservoir is low. Ice has formed on the lake. Use caution.
YELLOWJACKET LAKE: trout
Watch for thin ice. The road was plowed to within 1 mile of the lake, and the lake was accessible by high clearance four-wheel drive January 4. However, due to recent snow it may only be accessible by snowmobile now. Ice fishing should be good for 10 to 14 inch rainbow trout.
SOUTHEAST ZONE HUNTING
Visit the region's Fall Hunting Forecast
http://www.dfw.state.or.us/RR/hunting_forecast/2007_fall_high_desert.asp
Open: Chukar, duck, goose, cougar (new tag required Jan. 1), crow, California quail
NEW LANDS OPEN TO HUNT: More than 42,000 acres of private land in Malheur and Harney counties is now open to public hunting access, thanks to ODFW's Access and Habitat Program. More information:
http://www.dfw.state.or.us/news/2007/November/110107.asp
COUGAR
Cougar populations are healthy in the Southeast zone. Snow should help improve hunting conditions. In order to harvest a cougar, you need a valid tag and to be using a .22 caliber or larger center fire rifle.
COYOTE
Any area with wintering deer will provide good opportunity for coyote calling. Hunters should be aware that cougars will respond to predator calls.
If you are hunting in Klamath County, the Grenada butte and Chicken hills area have a lot of coyote sign in the recent snow and would be a good place to try. Keep in mind that access may be limited due to heavy snowfall over the past week.
UPLAND BIRDS
Chukar production in much of SE Oregon was poor this year, and the birds were widely scattered early in the season due to widespread green-up on the range. Hunters have reported encounters with larger coveys of birds in Harney, Malheur, and Baker counties but the birds are wary, likely due to the larger proportion of adult birds in the flocks. Decent California quail hunting can still be found in Malheur, Baker, and Union counties. Much of the best quail hunting occurs on lower elevation private land where permission is required from the landowner.
The Malheur River and Owhyee River corridors are the best chukar areas in Malheur County. In Lake County the best areas are Abert Rim, Coleman Rim and Guano Rim. Most quail are on private land and hunters will need to obtain permission before hunting. Hunters should focus on permanent springs and seeps that still have water.
WATERFOWL
Duck and goose hunting on the Snake River and major reservoirs in Malheur County should be fair for local birds. In Lake County, best areas are Lake Abert and Summer Lake Wildlife Area. All of the major wetlands in the Warner Valley are ice covered.
Duck hunting in the Klamath Basin is fair and best hunting will be in areas with open water including Lost River, Sprague River and Klamath River, but be aware of the shelf ice along the margins of the open water it can pose serious hazard to dog and hunter alike. Many ponds and area wetlands have frozen over, resulting in many birds continuing south or finding open water areas.
Goose hunting has been spotty. Fair to good hunting has been reported in a few areas including the Oregon side of the Lower Klamath NWR for both Canada and White-fronted geese. Goose use on the Klamath Wildlife Area has been inconsistent, but geese have been observed transitioning the area in the morning and evening most days. As always good scouting and persistence are the keys to goose hunting success.
KLAMATH WILDLIFE AREA
Klamath Wildlife Area is updating its 10-year management plan and will present a draft of the plan (available here) at two January meetings. Users of the area are welcome to attend to learn about the plan and offer public comments. Comments can also be emailed to ODFW.Comments@state.or.us or mailed to ODFW Wildlife Division, 3406 Cherry Avenue NE, Salem, OR 97303.
* Jan. 15, 7-9 p.m., ODFW Office conference room in Central Point (Denman WA office)
* Jan. 16, 7-9 p.m., Klamath County Extension Office Auditorium in Klamath Falls
Winter freeze-up of pond units on Miller Island has occurred and this usually signals an end to duck hunting. As long as the Klamath River remains open (unfrozen), occasional ducks may provide a pass-shooting opportunity on Miller Island. Goose hunting should improve after the first of the year as migrating geese enter the basin and resident geese become more accessible. Care should be taken when hunting on frozen ponds on the Miller Island Unit. Although normal winter conditions typically allow for safe walking on the ponds, intermittent warm weather may cause weakening of the ice and create a possible safety risk.
Hunting permits are required on the Miller Island Unit for all hunters and are available at the checkstation located on Miller Island. Hunt days are even days in January. Free daily hunting permits are available at the checkstation on hunt days. All units on the Miller Island Unit are open to hunting utilizing self-service permits set out for hunters with no limit on hunter numbers. All units on Miller Island Unit are open for hunting all day on hunt days. Permits must be carried while in the field hunting and check-out is mandatory.
Shoalwater Bay Unit, Sesti Tgawaals Unit, and the Gorr Island Unit are open to public hunting seven days a week without a permit.
Please remember to have current year HIP, Upland game bird and/or waterfowl validations prior to arriving.
Overnight camping is not allowed on the Miller Island Unit.
Please contact Klamath Wildlife Area at (541) 883-5734 or email lanny.a.fujishin@state.or.us for additional information.
SUMMER LAKE WILDLIFE AREA
Daily hunting permits are required of all hunters and are available at the Checking Station located 1.3 miles south of the town of Summer Lake. Free daily hunting permits are available self serve in the Checking Station lobby 24 hours a day and check-out is mandatory!
Thirteenth week of the season waterfowl hunting was fair to good due to favorable weather conditions most of the week. Daily bird per hunter averages ranged from a high of 3.90 on Sunday to a low of 0.75 on Wednesday. Weather conditions were cold and calm early in the week with a storm system hitting the area on Thursday and lasting through the weekend. A majority of the zrea's wetlands remained frozen for the entire week, with snow accumulating over the weekend. Freeze-up has caused ducks to concentrate in remaining open areas and increased feeding activity, especially during the storm period. One hundred and three (103) hunters checked-in for the week, up 41.1% from the same week last year. Hunters averaged 2.43 birds per hunter for the week, which was up 130.9% from the same week last year.
Total duck harvest (200; primarily mallards, gadwall and bufflehead) was up over 5 times compared to last year, while goose harvest (19; 18 Canada geese and one white-front) was nearly the same. Two (2) California quail were harvested during the week.
On Jan. 2, about 3,900 ducks and 1,000 geese were counted on the Area. Another count will be conducted this week (Jan. 9) and results will be posted on the department website and Wildlife Area telephone answering machine by the weekend.
Last weeks' count showed duck and goose population fairly stable and at a moderate level for this time of the year. Most birds have moved south towards wintering areas in California. As cold conditions persist, it is expected bird numbers will remain the same or decline slightly with the exception of Canada geese that may show increasing numbers. Birds were concentrated in small areas due to frozen conditions.
Due to declining bird numbers and winter-like conditions, hunting success should continue to be fair unless favorable conditions prevail. As winter continues, freezing conditions will remain and open water areas will ice over. Favorable weather conditions (storms with wind) will be needed to increase hunter success, especially for ducks. Canada goose hunting should improve with the cold and frozen conditions that usually push more birds onto the Area. Hunters using decoys and willing to spend most of the day in the marsh should see good results. Pass shooting will continue be very slow and unproductive during this time due to low bird numbers.
Nearly all units are frozen over and will remain that way unless temperatures moderate and/or strong winds prevail. Ana River, canals and channels of moving water (especially those below water control structures) should remain open.
Hunters are reminded that the Link Marsh area continues to be held dry during the entire hunting season due to ongoing marsh management activities. The River Ranch unit is being drawn down at this time in preparation for habitat enhancement activities to occur in 2008. Though hunters might see a short-term impact to their regular hunting spot because of the work, these habitat improvements occurring on areas of Summer Lake over the next several years will improve conditions for waterfowl and for hunters over the long term.
Pheasant season is CLOSED, but California quail seasons remain open through January 31, 2008 and fair numbers can be found predominantly in upland habitats in the north portion of the Wildlife Area. These areas provide excellent grass and shrub cover and an abundance of natural and planted foods. Hunters, especially those using dogs should find fair success in most areas.
Please remember to have current year hunting licenses, HIP, Upland game bird and/or waterfowl validations prior to arriving. Permits must be carried while in the field hunting and check-out is mandatory. Hunters can check-out by filling out the number of birds harvested and hours hunted and dropping off their permits in boxes located at each campground and major access areas.
Camping is available at four sites located on the Area. Campgrounds are primitive but each has vault toilets, trash barrels and a few picnic tables. Caulkins Lane access road is temporarily closed at this time due to snow drifts.
Please contact Summer Lake Wildlife Area at (541) 943-3152 or email martin.j.stlouis@state.or.us or jason.a.journey@state.or.us for additional information.
SOUTHEAST ZONE VIEWING
Harney County
Viewing opportunities for mule deer and raptors are good in the Blitzen River Valley between Diamond Lane and Frenchglen. This area is accessible from Highway 205 and the Center Patrol Road on the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge. Viewers should come prepared for cold weather and snow. Temperatures this time of year are often below freezing during the day and can be in the single digits or below zero at night so always be prepared.
Some migrates from the north such as bald eagles and rough-legged hawks have arrived in the area.
Bighorn sheep have been seen along the Catlow Valley Road south of Frenchglen. Best opportunities to observe bighorn are on the east side of the road from Roaring Springs Canyon on the north to Long Hollow Canyon on the south. The property adjacent to the road is private so viewers must stay on the road or road right-of-way.
Klamath Falls Area
Great viewing opportunities exist at Veteran's Park in downtown Klamath Falls where the Link River enters Lake Ewauna, keeping some open pockets of water. Look for both common and barrow's goldeneye. Recently, long-tailed ducks, rare visitors to the Basin, have been observed in the Link River. Long-tailed ducks breed from Alaska east across most of northern Canada. They winter along the Pacific coast. Visit Whatbird.com to hear their call and learn more.
For information on the Lake Ewauna Nature Trail, visit the Klamath Wingwatchers' Web site.
Lower Klamath National Wildlife Refuge
For a good waterfowl viewing opportunity try Stateline Road on the Lower Klamath National Wildlife Refuge. Thousands of ducks and geese are concentrated in a few open pockets of water on the south side of the road and are flying over to un-harvested barley fields on the north side. The show is best first thing in the morning or from about 3 p.m. to dark. Dozens of bald eagles can also be observed in the area. A marked 10-mile auto tour allows visitors year round access. The Refuge also has a number of photoblinds which are strategically situated for great early-morning photography. For a map of the area and to learn more, visit the Refuge's Web site.
Bald eagles
Bald eagles numbers will continue to increase as they migrate into the lower Klamath Basin from northern nesting areas. Good viewing areas are in the vicinity of Township Road and Stateline Roads where they can be found scavenging on sick or dead waterfowl. Also look for rough-legged hawks in agricultural areas.
Klamath Wildlife Area
Waterfowl seasons are now underway and hunting will occur on even days in January. Best viewing opportunities will be on non-hunt days at the Miller Island Unit. Good viewing of raptors is available including northern harrier, kestrel, red-tailed hawk, bald eagle and rough-legged hawk. Most shorebirds have already migrated south towards wintering areas in California.
Ponds have frozen at this time, and subsequently, most waterfowl viewing has ended until the northern migration begins in February.
The Wildlife Area is located four miles south of Klamath Falls. For directions and more information, visit the ODFW Web site.
Lake County and Lakeview Area
With the recent severe winter weather most of the major water bodies in the county are frozen and snow covered. Viewing opportunities for wintering waterfowl are restricted to Lake Abert along U.S. Highway 395. Winter raptors are present in the Warner Valley and near Paisley.
Summer Lake Wildlife Area
This section was updated on January 7, 2008.
Note: Though many areas remain open to viewing, with waterfowl hunting season in progress, this is not the most ideal time to visit Summer Lake to view wildlife. Refuge areas are closed to all entry during hunting seasons.
Wildlife viewers are permitted to access the Viewing Blind situated adjacent to the Schoolhouse Lake Refuge to observe wintering waterbirds. Hunting is not allowed in this area. The Wildlife Viewing Loop and major dike roads are closed and will remain that way through the end of General Waterfowl Hunting Season.
Waterfowl
Ducks remain fairly numerous although many have migrated south with on set of winter conditions. They remain widely scattered across the Area, predominantly in Refuges. Ducks are in their bright and colorful nuptial plumage commonly seen during winter. Many species are beginning to form pairs and some courtship activity has been evident.
Resident Canada goose flocks are dispersed widely across the Wildlife Area and adjacent private lands. They can be found in most wetlands and hayed meadows in the surrounding area.
Most tundra swans have passed through Summer Lake Wildlife Area enroute to wintering locales in California. About 1,000 swans will spend the winter taking advantage of the warm, moving water along Ana River and numerous diversions that do not freeze-over. Swan numbers remained fairly stable from the previous count numbering about 700. Wintering trumpeter swans continue to be observed. Look for swans in large open water bodies where they can be observed feeding on submerged aquatic plants or on ice-covered pond margins where they roost.
Shorebirds, waders and other waterbirds
Nearly all have migrated south through the Area, only a few incidental migrants remain and can sometimes be located along canals and in ponds scattered across the Area.
Raptors and Others
Resident and wintering raptors remain scattered throughout the Wildlife Area as well as on private lands along Highway 31. Meadows offer excellent foraging opportunities for many raptors. Wintering raptors are found in good numbers throughout the Summer Lake Basin and are very apparent along Highway 31. Northern harriers are especially numerous over marsh and hay meadows. Bald eagles are commonly seen along the Ana River near the River Ranch. Prairie falcons and golden eagles are sometimes seen during this time of the year. Arctic nesting rough-legged hawks have arrived and numbers are expected to increase as winter progresses. Of interest is a red-shouldered hawk that remains near the Headquarters Complex. Look for this species in tree cover where it behaves similar to accipiters (Cooper's, goshawks and sharp-shinned hawks).
Eurasian collared doves remain at Headquarters Complex.
Passerine (perching) species, especially sparrows and finches remain fairly common around the Headquarters complex, Summer Lake Rest Area, homestead sites and shelter break plantings at the north end of the Area where they are attracted to tree and shrub cover.
Facilities and Access
Non-motorized access and viewing opportunities are available in most of the Area at this time. Posted refuge areas are closed to all entry while game bird hunting seasons are underway. Camping is permitted at four sites on the Wildlife Area. Campgrounds are primitive but each has vault toilets, trash barrels and a few picnic tables.
The Wildlife Viewing Loop will remain closed through the end of General Waterfowl Hunting Season (January 27, 2008). Caulkins Lane access road is temporarily closed at this time due to snow drifts.
Secondary and minor dikes remain closed to motor vehicle traffic and cross country travel by motor vehicles and ATVs is prohibited.
Habitat
Wetland habitats are largely frozen-over due to winter weather conditions. A majority (95%) of the Area's wetlands are frozen over. Ana River and moving water, such as channels below water control structures will remain open unless cold temperatures become harsh and prolonged. As storms continue to move through the area and snow accumulates, tall and erect emergent marsh plants (bulrush and cattails) will continue to lodge over and increase visibility across wetlands. Seeds and submerged vegetation has been greatly reduced since freeze-up has occurred.
Meadows and hayfields are found on adjacent private lands and in selected locations on the Wildlife Area. These areas continue to provide excellent hunting sites for raptors.
Upland sites are in excellent condition due to lush growth of grasses and forbs. The light snow cover at this time allows for good food availability to most wildlife. Trees and shrubs have produced an abundance of fruits and seeds that are being utilized by a wide variety of wildlife species now.
Please contact Summer Lake Wildlife Area at (541) 943-3152 or email martin.j.stlouis@state.or.us or jason.a.journey@state.or.us for additional information.
NORTHEAST ZONE
FISHING
GRANDE RONDE, WALLOWA AND IMNAHA RIVERS: steelhead
No new report but steelhead angling in the lower Imnaha and Grande Ronde Rivers has been fair to good in the past several weeks. Steelhead anglers surveyed on the lower Grande Ronde River over the past several weeks averaged one steelhead for every 9 to 10 hours fished. Counts of adult steelhead moving upstream at lower Snake River dams were exceeding last year's counts and the ten-year average. Expect good steelhead angling to continue when water conditions are favorable. Icing can make angling a challenge during colder weather.
JOHN DAY RIVER: bass and steelhead
Weather conditions will largely determine angling opportunity and success. Currently, the river is in excellent condition, with good water clarity and streamflow, although cold water will mean the fish are less aggressive. Steelhead are well distributed throughout the river up to Service Creek. Remember to keep those clipped hatchery fish and release the unmarked ones.
Stream flow levels, Service Creek gauging station: http://waterdata.usgs.gov/or/nwis/uv?14046500.
The John Day River above Kimberly and all tributaries are closed to trout angling until May 24, 2008. The John Day River below Kimberly is open to angling for steelhead and bass all year.
LAGRANDE RESERVOIR: Closed to fishing until next spring.
MAGONE LAKE: trout
Ice has covered the lake but snow blocks the access road for any vehicles other than snowmobiles. Ice fishing success for brook and rainbow trout should be fair with rainbows and brook trout to 14 in.
MORGAN LAKE: Closed to fishing until next spring.
TROUT FARM POND: trout
This small, spring-fed pond is open year-long and seldom freezes entirely. Access can be limited until snowplows clear the road and parking is limited. Angling success should remain fair for brook trout and planted rainbow all winter.
UMATILLA RIVER: steelhead
Fishing has been good for steelhead below Threemile Dam, and from river mile 44 to the lower reservation boundary. Steelhead returns numbers should improve as river flows increase.
Due to fish passage concerns at the Feed Canal Diversion Dam (River Mile 28), all steelhead returning to Threemile Dam as of December 6 are being transported upstream to approximately River mile 44 for release back in to the Umatilla River. Modifications to alleviate the passage concerns at Feed Canal Dam are currently being evaluated. Fish releases directly above Three Mile Dam will resume when passage concerns are resolved.
WALLA WALLA RIVER: Steelhead
Steelhead angling is slow; fish numbers should increase with increased river flows and water temperatures.
WALLOWA LAKE: trout
Fair for stocked rainbow trout. Lake conditions are good but the boat launches are a challenge because water levels are low and boat docks have been removed for the winter. Rainbow should be distributed throughout the lake and bait angling will be most effective for rainbow from the bank.
WILLOW CREEK RESERVOIR: Trout, crappie, bullhead catfish
Trout angling is fair.
NORTHEAST ZONE HUNTING
OPEN: Chukar (closed in Umatilla and Morrow counties), California quail (closed in Umatilla and Morrow counties), duck, goose, cougar (new tag needed for 2008), crow
ATV users, please respect road closures designed to protect wildlife and improve the hunting experience.
Visit the Northeast Fall Hunting Forecast
http://www.dfw.state.or.us/RR/hunting_forecast/2007_fall_northeast.asp
UNION COUNTY
Waterfowl hunting is fair, many bodies of water are currently frozen, so hunters should focus on moving water and grain fields. Watch for a warming trend to produce some good hunting.
Look for quail in thick cover, adjacent to a food source. Hungarian partridges can be found on open slopes around the edges of the Grande Ronde valley.
Cougar populations are healthy to increasing in the area. Tracking cougars to kill-sites can be a productive way to harvest a wary cat. Winter snows will produce excellent tracking conditions for the dedicated cat hunter. Calling cats with predator calls is a proven method of taking cougars.
ELKHORN WILDLIFE AREA
The Elkhorn Wildlife Area closed to the public on Dec. 1, to minimize disruption to wintering deer and elk herds.
LADD MARSH WILDLIFE AREA
Most of the water on the marsh is currently frozen. A sudden thaw could produce some good waterfowl hunting. The best hunting also happens when weather in La Grande is overcast and windy. Hunters are always encouraged to let the birds work; do not shoot at birds out of range (skybust) as this can ruin other people's hunt.
Ladd Marsh is updating its 10-year management plan; see the draft PDF here. Area managers will host a meeting January 22 from 6:30pm - 8:30pm, at Blue Mountain Conference Center in La Grande, to present the plan and accept comments from the public. Comments can also be emailed to ODFW.Comments@state.or.us or mailed to ODFW Wildlife Division, 3406 Cherry Ave NE, Salem, OR 97303.
GRANT COUNTY
Chukars and Huns can be found on open slope were green up has started growing. Overall numbers of birds are low but chicks per brood is fair. Quail can be found in brushy draws and riparian areas along river system. Production is fair around the county.
Coyotes may be responding well to calls due to the colder weather. Good areas to try are the South Fork of the John Day and on private lands between Dayville and John Day. Make sure to ask permission before hunting private lands.
Cougar populations are healthy and increasing in the area. They may respond to calls but will likely come in slower that coyotes. With recent snow, one may be able to track a cougar down.
MORROW COUNTY
Cougar populations are healthy. Winter snows make it easier to look for fresh cougar sign and calling with distress type calls or recorded cougar vocalizations can be effective. Dawn and dusk are the best times for calling.
Coyotes are abundant in the district. Finding a good location with coyote sign, watching the wind direction and using distress type calls or howlers can be effective.
WALLOWA DISTRICT
COUGAR: Cougar are abundant throughout Wallowa County, but can be difficult to observe. Locating fresh cougar sign and patiently calling attempting to imitate a fawn or calf in distress can sometimes be an effective technique.
COYOTE: Good numbers of coyotes can be found throughout Wallowa County. Calling coyotes with rabbit distress type calls has been effective for hunters. It is important to choose areas with abundant coyote sign and little human activity.
UPLAND BIRDS: Chukar hunting continues to be very slow, birds are widely scattered as populations are below normal.
WATERFOWL: Duck hunting has improved with increased numbers of migratory birds showing up in the valley. Hunters have been successful jump shooting or hunting over decoys.
TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS: Noregaard, Whiskey Creek, and Shamrock travel management areas in the Sled Springs unit are in effect.
UMATILLA DISTRICT
WATERFOWL: Hunters can expect normal numbers of early local birds in areas on or adjacent to the Columbia River.
COUGAR numbers are high throughout the forested areas of Umatilla County. Hunters will find the best success by finding a fresh natural kill and sitting by it for the cougar to return, or by calling in areas near the snowline.
BAKER COUNTY
Chukar/Hun: Snow and cold weather has concentrated birds on south slopes, while numbers are still low this year decent bird hunting can still be found. For best success try portions of the Pine Creek and Lookout Mountain Units located along Brownlee Reservoir. Decent hunting can be found for Hungarian Partridge, an often-underutilized opportunity.
Quail: Look for quail around agricultural areas or lowland riparian areas with abundant forage. Try along Snake River Road in eastern Baker County.
Waterfowl: Look for areas with open water for your best chance at harvesting a limit of ducks. Look for new growth in agricultural fields for your best goose hunting. Remember to ask permission before accessing private ground.
Cougar: Populations are high across the county. With the snow and cold weather cougars have moved down to the deer winter ranges. Calling tactics and tracking in the fresh snow are two good methods of harvesting an animal.
ELKHORN WILDLIFE AREA
The Elkhorn Wildlife Area closed on Dec. 1, to minimize disruption to wintering deer and elk herds.
NORTHEAST ZONE VIEWING
Resolve to get outdoors in 2008
Near Baker City: Rocky Mountain elk have moved onto the feed sites. The best time for viewing is mid morning or late in the afternoon. For a close up look try a wagon ride. For information, contact T&T Wildlife Tours, (541) 856-3356
T&T Wildlife Tours operate at the Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife Anthony Creek feed site located on North Powder River Lane, 8 miles west of North Powder, Oregon. (Take the North Powder exit off of Interstate 84, and proceed west following the wildlife viewing signs.)Tours are offered every weekend beginning December 15, 2007 and concluding February 24, 2008.
Near La Grande: The birdwatching is good at Ladd Marsh Wildlife Area. See the Union County section below for details.
Baker County
Bighorn sheep can be viewed in the Burnt River Canyon west of Durkee or along the Snake River Road south of Richland.
Mule deer are on the winter ranges. Mature bucks can be found in the vicinity of large herds. For the best viewing opportunities look at middle to lower elevation slopes with a southern exposure
Bald eagles can be seen along open water areas of the Snake River and Brownlee Reservoir. For best viewing, drive the Snake River Road between Richland and Huntington.
Gilliam, Morrow and Wheeler Counties
Look along open fields in the mid- to lower foothills near dawn and dusk to see short-eared owls. A distinct pause in their wing beat and an irregular flight make it easy to differentiate short-eared owls from the Northern Harriers that frequent the area. Bald eagles can be seen along the John Day River from Dayville to Spray.
Elk can still be seen along Highway 19 south of Spray, dusk is the best time to Spot them moving down from the hills across the John Day.
Mule deer are on their winter ranges and are very visible. The best chance to spot large bucks is with larger herds in the mid elevations on both the Heppner and Monument sides of the Forest.
Rough-legged hawks are wintering in the area. Rough-legged hawks summer at the artic tree line and winter down here in Oregon's open country. The open grass lands in the lower foot hills of the Blues will give one the best chance of seeing a Rough-legged hawk. Drive any of the highways in the Heppner area and one is sure to see a few on the power poles.
Grant County
Mule deer have moved on to the winter ranges of Grant Count, providing an excellent opportunity for viewing. Look for deer along the Middle Fork of the John Day, Highway 26 between Dayville and Prairie City; and Phillip W. Schneider Wildlife Area along the South Fork of the John Day.
Bald eagles can be observed along the John Day River between Dayville and Prairie City.
They may be hard to see but from December until April there will be the opportunity to see big horn sheep. Aldrich Mountain on the South Fork of the John Day River is the best in Grant County for viewing.
Union County
Bald eagles have arrived in the Grande Ronde Valley. Watch for river otters, beaver, mergansers and wood ducks along the Grande Ronde River; driving west on Highway 244 from La Grande provides good access to river viewing. Deer and elk are on winter range and can be seen around the edges of the valley.
ODFW's Ladd Marsh Wildlife Area, La Grande
Ladd Marsh Wildlife Area is closed to public entry except Saturday, Sunday, Wednesday and holidays during the waterfowl season. However, there are numerous quality viewing opportunities from the roads that pass through the area.
NEW: Numerous rough-legged hawks have taken up winter residence in the area and can be seen from the roads that pass through Ladd Marsh. Short-eared owls, bald eagles, red-tailed hawks, American kestrels and northern shrikes may also be observed hunting on the wing or from road-side perches. Flocks of sparrows may include song sparrows and American tree sparrows as well as the occasional treat such as Harris's and white-throated sparrows. Flocks of horned larks have also been seen using farm fields adjacent to the wildlife area.
Rocky Mountain elk may often be seen from Foothill Road or other roads through the wildlife area. Binoculars or a spotting scope will help as these animals are best viewed from a distance.
The wetlands on Ladd Marsh are currently frozen but if temperatures warm and create open water, high numbers of waterfowl are expected to begin using the area.
Umatilla County
Along the Columbia River, gulls and raptors including bald eagles can be seen. As cold weather settles in, waterfowl numbers will increase. With the Columbia Basin experiencing an increase in field corn production, the area is positioned to experience a large increase in wintering waterfowl with the dominant species being mallards. If this waterfowl wintering concentration develops, impressive numbers of ducks will be observed going out from and returning to the Columbia River on feeding flights. These flights of waterfowl will occur in the first half hour of light in the morning and last half hour of light in the evening. Visit area wildlife areas to see shore and marsh birds in addition to perching birds and raptors.
Wintering rough-legged hawks and short-eared owls will be common sights in grassland areas. Wood ducks are flocking up at this time and can be seen traveling in flocks up and down the river systems with cottonwood trees along the banks.
Swainson's hawks are starting to accumulate for migration and can often be seen traveling in large groups in the Hermiston/Echo area during the early and late hours of the day. With the bat migration on, elevated numbers of bats can be seen at twilight near bodies of water and cliff areas foraging on insects. All forested habitats in the east and southern portions of the County will have large numbers of migrating birds during the September to mid October timeframe. Riparian and deciduous flat areas will offer the best viewing.
White-tailed deer can be seen in foothill areas near the base of the Blue Mountains in the early morning and the last hour of light in the evening. Mule deer can be seen out in the desert areas west of Highway 11 and 395 south of Pendleton during the same hours as white-tailed deer.
ODFW's Willow Creek Wildlife Area, Pendleton
Visit the Willow Creek Wildlife Area to see waterfowl, raptors, game birds and passerines (perching birds). On the road through the farm lands to the Wildlife Area, glassing the irrigation pivots can reward the viewer with some of the areas rare visitors, Gyrfalcons, the largest of all falcons, and Snowy owls (Artic owl) if the winter is cold enough to bring them this far south.
The habitat varies from open water to riparian woodlands. Bald eagles are an occasional visitor. The brush and thick vegetation areas in the uplands and fields are good spots for pheasant and California quail. The Wildlife Area is open to hunting. Take exit 151 off I-84, go south and follow the signs.
Wallowa County
Bald Eagles
Bald eagles are common in the Wallowa Valley during winter months. Eagles can often be observed from highway 82 in the vicinity of the Wallowa River. The Wallowa River in the Minam canyon is another good place to observe eagles.
Rocky Mountain Elk
Elk can be observed on the Wenaha Wildlife Area. Eden Bench, southwest of Troy, is a good area to view elk early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
Bighorn sheep
Bighorn sheep can be observed along the breaks of the Grande Ronde River, when driving the river road from Troy up-stream to Wildcat Creek. Bighorns can be observed along the west side of the River. A few can also be observed from the river road downstream from Troy to the Washington State line. Winter months are the best time to see animals.
SNAKE RIVER ZONE
FISHING
BROWNLEE RESERVOIR:
Fishing has been slow. The Powder river arm has been frozen lately, but can reopen quickly, if the weather warms slightly. Perch are in tight schools scattered around the reservoir. The reservoir is dropping slightly and is at 12 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. Reservoir level information:
http://www.nwd-wc.usace.army.mil/perl/dataquery.pl?k=brownlee
OXBOW RESERVOIR: trout
Trout are at the mouth of streams.
HELLS CANYON RESERVOIR: trout
Trout are at the mouth of streams. Approximately 1,000 surplus steelhead have been released into Hells Canyon Reservoir. These fish are considered trout over 20 inches and only one can be kept per day. No tag is needed if fishing in the reservoir.
SNAKE RIVER below HELLS CANYON RESERVOIR: steelhead, trout
The water levels have been irregular and success with steelhead fishing varies below the dam. Flows at Hells Canyon Dam and Johnson Bar have been fluctuating between 11,800 and 16,900 cfs during the last week. Using corkies and eggs from the bank is usually successful. If fishing from a boat, plugs and sandshrimp with a diver has been working from the dam to Wildsheep. Please use good fishing ethics when boat and bank fishermen are in close proximity. Trout fishing has been good also. Flows at Hells Canyon Dam and Johnson Bar have been fluctuationg between 11,800 and 16,900 cfs. To get information on flow levels got to: http://www.idahopower.com/riversrec/waterlevels/streamflow/
SNAKE RIVER (Above Brownlee Reservoir): channel catfish, flathead catfish, smallmouth bass
Flow was 7,389 cfs near Nyssa and approximately 11,709 cfs near Weiser on January 6. Angling for catfish and smallmouth bass is slow.
COLUMBIA ZONE
Notice of Columbia River Compact/Joint State Hearings: Please note, the date was changed from previous announcements. ODFW and WDFW have scheduled a Compact/Joint State hearing for 10 a.m. Friday February 15 at the Water Resource Education Center located at 4600 SE Columbia Way in Vancouver, Washington to consider recreational and commercial fishing seasons for spring chinook on the Columbia River for 2008.
2008 Spring Chinook Forecast: Oregon and Washington departments of fish and wildlife released the 2008 spring chinook forecast Dec. 11 for the Columbia and Willamette Rivers during a meeting of the Northwest Sportfishing Industry Association. Based on projections by staff biologists and the Technical Advisory Committee the report offers recreational and commercial fisherman a first look at what to expect this spring.
It can be accessed on ODFW's Web site by clicking the link below:
http://www.dfw.state.or.us/fish/OSCRP/CRM/index.asp
FISHING
SALMON, STEELHEAD, AND SHAD:
COLUMBIA RIVER MAINSTEM, Buoy 10 Line upstream to Tongue Point/Rocky Point Line: Under permanent regulations this section of the Columbia River is open Jan. 1-March 31, 2008 to the retention of adipose fin-clipped spring chinook, adipose fin-clipped steelhead, and adipose fin-clipped coho with a daily bag limit of two adult salmon or steelhead (chinook greater than 24 inches and coho greater than 16 inches or steelhead greater than 20 inches) and five jacks. Modifications to the 2008 spring chinook fishery will be considered at the Feb. 15 Joint State Hearing.
COLUMBIA RIVER MAINSTEM, Tongue Point/Rocky Point Line to I-5 Bridge: Under permanent regulations this section of the Columbia River is open January 1-March 31, 2008 to the retention of adipose fin-clipped spring chinook, adipose fin-clipped steelhead, and adipose fin-clipped coho with a daily bag limit of two adult salmon or steelhead (chinook greater than 24 inches and coho greater than 16 inches or steelhead greater than 20 inches) and five jacks. Modifications to the 2008 spring chinook fishery will be considered at the Feb. 15 Joint State Hearing.
COLUMBIA RIVER MAINSTEM, I-5 Bridge to Bonneville Dam: Under permanent regulations this section of the Columbia River is open Jan. 1-March 31 2008 to the retention of adipose fin-clipped steelhead with a daily bag limit of two fish. The retention of spring chinook is prohibited. Modifications to the 2008 spring chinook fishery will be considered at the Feb. 15 Joint State Hearing.
COLUMBIA RIVER MAINSTEM, Bonneville Dam to the Oregon/Washington Border: Under permanent regulations this section of the Columbia River is open Jan. 1-March 31, 2008 to the retention of adipose fin-clipped steelhead with a daily bag limit of two fish. The retention of spring chinook is prohibited. Modifications to the 2008 spring chinook fishery will be considered at the Feb. 15 Joint State Hearing.
The salmonid creel program on the lower Columbia will resume Feb. 2008.
The Dalles Pool:
Weekly checking showed one adipose fin-clipped steelhead kept for two boats.
John Day Pool (Columbia River above John Day Dam and John Day Arm):
Weekly checking showed one adipose fin-clipped steelhead kept plus two unclipped steelhead released for eight boats and no catch reported for four bank rods.
STURGEON:
BUOY 10 UPSTREAM TO WAUNA POWERLINES (including Youngs Bay and all adjacent Washington tributaries):
The Compact adopted the following rules at the Dec. 13 Joint State Hearing for the sturgeon sport fishery below Wauna power lines (RM 40) downstream to Buoy 10, including Youngs Bay and all adjacent Washington tributaries for 2008:
* Allow the retention of white sturgeon seven days per week from Jan. 1-Apr. 30, 2008 with a 42-inch minimum size and a 60-inch maximum size limit in effect.
* Allow the retention of white sturgeon seven days per week during May 10-June 24, 2008 (or until catch guideline is reached) with a 45-inch minimum size and a 60-inch maximum size limit in effect.
* Prohibit the retention of sturgeon seven days per week during May 1-May 9, 2008 and June 25-Dec. 31, 2008. Catch and release angling is allowed during all retention closures.
* Retention of green sturgeon is prohibited as per permanent regulations.
* Daily and annual catch limits listed in the 2008 Oregon Sport Regulations pamphlet remain in effect.
WAUNA POWERLINES UPSTREAM TO BONNEVILLE DAM (including all adjacent Washington tributaries and the Willamette River downstream of Willamette Falls including the Multnomah Channel):
The Compact adopted the following rules at the Dec. 13 Joint State Hearing for the sturgeon sport fishery above Wauna power lines (RM 40) upstream to Bonneville Dam, including all adjacent Washington tributaries, and the lower Willamette River (including the Multnomah Channel) upstream to Willamette Falls for 2008:
* Allow the retention of white sturgeon four days per week on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday during Jan. 1 through July 31, 2008 and Oct. 1 through Dec. 31, 2008.
* Prohibit the retention of sturgeon three days per week on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday during Jan. 1-July 31, 2008 and Oct. 1-Dec. 31, 2008 and seven days per week during Aug. 1-Sept. 30, 2008.
* Retention of green sturgeon is prohibited as per permanent regulations.
* Daily and annual catch limits listed in the 2008 Oregon Sport Regulations pamphlet remain in effect.
BONNEVILLE DAM UPSTREAM TO THE DALLES DAM:
Effective Jan. 1, 2008 this section of the Columbia River is open to the retention of sturgeon seven days per week until the catch guideline is reached with a daily bag limit of one fish between 42 and 60 inches in length and an annual limit of five fish. Pool specific catch guidelines have not been established, but should be available in early February.
THE DALLES DAM UPSTREAM TO MCNARY DAM:
Effective Jan. 1, 2008 this section of the Columbia River is open to the retention of sturgeon seven days per week until the catch guideline is reached with a daily bag limit of one fish between 48 and 60 inches in length and an annual limit of five fish. Pool specific catch guidelines have not been established, but should be available in early February.
Sturgeon fishing was slow and effort was extremely light in the lower Columbia River this past weekend due to poor weather conditions.
Gorge Bank:
Weekly checking showed no catch reported for two bank anglers (incomplete trips).
Gorge Boats:
No report.
Troutdale Boats:
No report.
Portland to Longview Bank:
No report.
Portland to Longview Boats:
Weekend checking showed one legal white sturgeon kept and five sublegal sturgeon released for three boats (incomplete trips).
Bonneville Pool:
Weekly checking showed 10 sublegal sturgeon released for five boats; and one legal white sturgeon kept, plus 12 sublegals released for 26 bank anglers.
The Dalles Pool:
Weekly checking showed one legal white sturgeon kept, plus one sublegal sturgeon released for four boats; and one legal white sturgeon kept, plus one oversize and four sublegal sturgeon released for 27 bank anglers.
WALLEYE:
The Dalles Pool: Weekly checking showed no catch reported for two boats.
Troutdale: No report.
COLUMBIA RIVER ZONE VIEWING
Watch for Bald Eagles
NEW: If you want to see eagles, this is the time to be watching along the Columbia River. Large numbers of eagles congregate near the mouths of salmon-bearing rivers and streams as salmon carcasses wash up on the sandbars. The best areas within the district are the mouth of Mosier Creek and the Klickitat River on the Washington shore. Viewers also can find eagles near Riverfront Park in The Dalles, Wells Island near Hood River, and Government Cove near Cascade Locks. Several eagles are active in the lower Columbia River near Sauvie Island and Deer Island. Bald eagles are often found near water with large numbers of waterfowl or fish.
For more information on bald eagles, visit the Whatbird.com Web site.
MARINE ZONE
FISHING
Resolve to get outdoors in 2008
Reports are that crabbing from docks has been good along the coast, where there are public docks in Winchester Bay, Bandon, Charleston, or Empire. Kids will enjoy sorting out the smaller crab from the catch.
Fish
Swells as large as 20 feet kept anglers off the ocean last week and there were no reported catches. January and February can offer good fishing during periods of calmer weather. Species illustrations and descriptions are in The Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations booklet (page 98) and The Red Rockfish Identification Guide. The minimum length for lingcod is 22 inches, for cabezon it is 16 inches and for greenling it is 10 inches. Fishing for cabezon from a boat reopened Jan. 1.
The marine daily bag limit for 2007 is six fish (including rockfish, greenling and other marine species) and two lingcod and 15 surfperch. Remember: yelloweye rockfish and canary rockfish may not be retained. Also, the Stonewall Bank Yelloweye Rockfish Conservation Area approximately 15 miles west of Newport is closed to the harvest of rockfish, lingcod and flatfish. Complete regulations, including waypoints for the Stonewall Bank YRCA, are in the 2007 Oregon Sport Ocean Regulations for Salmon, Halibut and other Marine Fish Species and online at http://www.dfw.state.or.us/resources/fishing/
The 2008 Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations are available from license vendors and ODFW offices and will soon be online at http://www.dfw.state.or.us/resources/fishing/
Seasons and restrictions for ocean salmon are set in April; catch limits and seasons for Pacific halibut are set in March. Seasons and regulations for all other marine fish are the same as in 2007.
Crabs
Sport crabbing is open in the ocean, bays and estuaries. Bay crabbing often slows after heavy rain because crab head toward the ocean where the water is more salty. For more information on sport crabbing visit http://www.dfw.state.or.us/MRP/shellfish/
For sport crabbers the minimum size for Dungeness crab is 5¾ inches measured in a straight line across the back immediately in front of, but not including, the points. For a photograph and diagram see page 97 of the Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations booklet.
Clams
The recreational harvest of all shellfish, including all clams and mussels, is open coastwide but harvesters should check for current closures on the ODA shellfish safety page at http://www.oregon.gov/ODA/FSD/shellfish_status.shtml or call the shellfish hotline, 503-986-4728 or 1-800-448-2474. Waters can be closed on short notice because of contaminated waters due to coastal flooding and because of elevated levels of naturally occurring toxins.
Check out the recreational clam pages on the ODFW Web site at http://www.dfw.state.or.us/MRP/shellfish/. They contain everything you need to know for identifying and harvesting Oregon's clams.
MARINE ZONE VIEWING
Resolve to get outdoors in 2008
Take a walk and take your binoculars for winter birdwatching. With so many bare trees, there is a lot to see this time of year. Download a fantastic Oregon Coast Hiking Trail guide from the State Parks Web site or call 1-800-551-6949 (Mon-Fri, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.) for a copy.
Beach walk, wave watch, whale watch, explore tide pools. Visit the Beach Connections Web site for some ideas on what to do in winter on the coast.
Visit historic Fort Stevens State Park; bring you bike or walking shoes. When beachcombing, see the historic shipwreck. A network of nine miles of bicycle trails and six miles of hiking trails allow you to explore the park through spruce and hemlock forests, wetlands, dunes and shore pine. Keep your eyes out for birds and other wildlife.
Stand back: big waves
Predictions call for large surf to buffet the Oregon coast all week providing an impressive display of the Pacific's majestic power. The big curlers hurl everything from large logs to small Japanese floats onto the beach making the days following a storm perfect for beach combing. Don't become so entranced by what you find that you stop paying attention to the ocean, however. A large wave could do more than just get you wet if it drags you out to sea or causes logs on the beach to shift and injure you. For your safety, don't turn your back on the ocean and stay off beached logs.
Whale Watching
The winter migration is short and quick-usually only about four weeks-from mid-December to mid-January. The whales are not slowed by calves in the pod and single-mindedly drive southwards in straight lines a few miles offshore. You can see their spouts, but they are distant. About 18,000 gray whales will pass by the Oregon coast in these four weeks.
To watch the winter migration it is best to pick a calm day and find a view point that is high enough to spot the spouts that will be a few miles offshore. Learning good binocular technique will help spot the whales. Gaze out onto the ocean, focusing on medium distances until you see a puff of white. Then raise your binoculars while continuing to look at the place you saw the puff. This technique takes some practice, but generally works better than swinging the binoculars around looking for something. Just keep your eyes focused on the whale and raise the binoculars to your eyes, looking through them, not into them.
For more information, visit http://whalespoken.org/
Posted in Community on Thursday, January 10, 2008 12:00 am Updated: 12:02 am.
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