The Oregon Recreation Report (fishing, hunting, viewing), updated Tuesday, June 26, by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife:

'Tis the season for warmwater fishing!

Fishing success for trout, small and largemouth bass and yellow perch is picking up throughout the state and there are opportunities to catch 12-14 inch rainbow trout. Shore fishing offers many opportunities for anglers.

Many lakes and ponds have shoreline structures such as docks, logs, stump fields, brush and rock piles, and downed trees. Such things, which provide shelter, shade, and protection for fish, are ideal fishing spots.

Rivers and streams are also good places to fish, especially those with structure such as islands, sand bars, rocks or rock piles, and log jams within casting distance of shore. Many anglers fishing shallow rivers combine shore fishing with shallow-water wading. Being able to fish from the middle of a stream lets you cast to more structure. Remember, most fish face the flow of water and wait for food to come to them.

Summer Vacation: Take your binoculars

Whether you're biking, hiking, driving, swimming, camping or just lying in the hammock this summer, look around to enjoy Oregon's birds and wildlife. Visit the Viewing section of each area you plan to visit over the summer for ideas of where to stop and what to see.

Last chance for a 2007 controlled hunt tag n July 1 at 10 a.m.

Hunters still seeking a controlled hunt tag for the fall 2007 big game season can purchase from 654 leftover deer and elk tags beginning Sunday, July 1 at 10 a.m. PDT. The tags, which tend to sell out in minutes, are sold on a first-come, first-serve basis at more than 500 licensed retailers statewide. ODFW offices will not be open to sell tags on July 1 this year because the date falls on a weekend. The tags will be sold at regular prices for resident and non-resident hunters.

Visit the following link to see what controlled hunts are available.

http://www.dfw.state.or.us/resources/hunting/big_game/controlled_hunts/docs/2007_leftover%20_tags.pdf

Controlled hunts are those where state wildlife officials have limited the number of hunters to improve game management and enhance the hunting experience. Hunting season dates and bag limits still apply.

WILLAMETTE ZONE

Passage numbers for summer steelhead moving through the Willamette Falls fishway continued to hold steady last week. The summer-run steelhead counted through June 20 total 9,161. Winter steelhead counting ended for the season on May 15 with the final number totaling 5,494 fish passing the ladder. Water conditions in the mainstem Willamette and in both forks of the Santiam are good, but pressure remains relatively light. Salmon angling effort has about ended on the Lower Willamette and the shad fishery has begun to wane also. There has been some chinook effort in the lower harbor targeting the annual late-run fish. Over 20,000 spring chinook and 9,000 summer steelhead have passed Willamette Falls through last weekend. Stream flows holding steady and angling conditions in the North and South Santiam will remain favorable. Water temperature in the North Santiam increased a few degrees last week as surface water from Detroit is being spilled. The warmer temperature will cause the fish to move upstream more quickly. Both chinook and steelhead are being picked up throughout the North and South forks and about 1400 steelhead have been recycled back downstream from the trap at Foster Dam.

FISHING

STOCKING SCHEDULE: South Willamette Watershed District: ODFW will stock Blue River above Blue River Reservoir, Carmen Reservoir, Fall Creek, Leaburg Lake, McKenzie River below Leaburg Lake, McKenzie River above Leaburg Lake, Salmon Creek and Smith Reservoir the week of June 25. McKenzie River below Leaburg Lake will receive approximately 3,300 legal size and more than 1,500 larger rainbow trout.

In the North Willamette Watershed, ODFW will stock Trillium Lake with rainbow trout the week of June 25.

BREITENBUSH RIVER AND NORTH SANTIAM: trout

Breitenbush and North Santiam above Detroit Reservoir were both stocked by ODFW with trout the week of June 18.

CLACKAMAS RIVER: chinook, steelhead, trout

Summer steelhead angling has been fair with some fish spread throughout the system. An occasional spring chinook has been caught with the more experienced anglers still having the greatest success. Anglers will likely find better catch rates above Barton up to McIver Park. The best catches for bank anglers have been near Dog Creek and Rivermill Dam. Due to the low water conditions overall effort has decreased with very few boats out on the river. The Clackamas has dropped in the past week which was reflected in Monday's flows reading at 1,170 cfs (11.15'). The color remains good with the water temperature up near 60°.

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

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

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

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

DETROIT RESERVOIR: rainbow Trout

The reservoir is full of catchable rainbow trout and is scheduled to be stocked the week of June 25 with additional trout.

The U.S. Forest Service has lifted the health-related advisories in Detroit Reservoir in relation to the blue-green algae bloom. More information can be obtained through the Department of Human Services web site at http://www.oregon.gov/DHS/ph/envtox/maadvisories.shtml.

FOSTER RESERVOIR: rainbow Trout

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

GREEN PETER RESERVOIR: kokanee, chinook

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

HENRY HAGG LAKE: trout, bass

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

SUNNYSIDE POND: trout, bass, sunfish, catfish

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

SANDY RIVER: steelhead, chinook salmon

Summer steelhead angling has been pretty slow with a few reports of fish from Dodge down to Dabney. The Cedar Creek area near the hatchery has produced some summers also. Spring chinook angling continues to be slow. Water levels are low so boaters need to watch for submerged logs and rocks. The glacial runoff has subsided for now on the Sandy and the color is actually very good, but a decent rainfall would really help the chinook and steelhead movement. The conditions on Monday showed flows had decreased to 685 cfs (8.36') with the water temperature hovering near 56°.

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

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

WILLAMETTE RIVER: shad, sturgeon, warmwater species

Spring chinook angling effort has dwindled to just a small handful of boats on the lower Willamette. June 25 conditions showed Willamette flows at 8,600 cfs, a water temperature up to 68°, and the visibility at 5.8 feet.

There continues to be some interest in the spring chinook fishery down in the lower harbor near St Johns as the annual push of late springers moves through. Overall the effort has moved to other fisheries such as the remaining shad season or sturgeon.

At this point in the run most of the shad will be found in the Oregon City area. The fish per boat averages are beginning to decline for kept and released shad as the month of June comes to a close, but with good water conditions there could be a few decent fishing days left.

Please note that the Willamette River, including Multnomah Channel, is open for the retention of sturgeon under recently modified rules. Effective Feb. 1, 2007 the retention of sturgeon is allowed Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday of each week until July 31, 2007. Monday through Wednesday of each week angling for sturgeon is allowed, but on a catch and release basis only. Please also note that anglers are limited to the use of only one single-point barbless hook while angling for sturgeon.

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

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

HIGH LAKES: There are many mountain lakes available in the area for day use or overnight camping that require only a short hike in to them. The remoteness of the lake will usually dictate the degree of difficulty of the hike. The high lakes have been aerial stocked and provide an angling experience unlike the more crowded, close-in waters. Bank fishing or float-tubes are the way to fish on these small mountain lakes. Please be aware of current campfire rules, and always pack out what you pack in. Maps should be available at the local U.S. Forest Service office.

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

VIEWING

Willamette Valley

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

Elk: At this time of year, elk can often be seen at the William L. Finley National Wildlife Refuge near Corvallis. While viewing elk, look into the herds and you will be able to see the young bulls showing their spikes. Visit the Refuge Web site for information on wildlife viewing, photography and hiking opportunities, http://www.fws.gov/refuges/profiles/index.cfm?id=13589

Birdwatchers: Experienced birdwatchers know that Sauvie Island Wildlife Area is a great place to see a large variety of birds, but this month even novices can get a great view of the activity. Sandhill cranes can be seen from the Eastside viewing platform on Reeder Road. Hummingbirds have been spotted and the shore birds are beginning to migrate back. For more information, see the section on Sauvie Island Wildlife Area below. For photos of Sandhill cranes, visit http://www.mbr-pwrc.usgs.gov/id/framlst/i2060id.html

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

Clackamas River

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

Eugene Area

At ODFW's Fern Ridge Wildlife Area birdwatching opportunities are available at every access point around the lake. In June, keep an eye out for osprey, pelicans, bald eagles, yellow-headed blackbirds, purple martins and a variety of waterfowl and shorebirds. Western pond turtles can frequently be observed basking on floating logs in Kirk Pond during warm parts of the day. Bird checklists and maps are available at area parking lots or by contacting the Wildlife Area headquarters at (541) 935-2591. Directions, http://www.dfw.state.or.us/wildlifearea/fernridge.htm

Monmouth Area

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

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

Portland Area

Watch for peregrine falcons downtown-they are nesting on Portland Bridges including the Fremont.

Sandy Area

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

Sauvie Island Wildlife Area

Experienced and novice birdwatchers have a lot to look at this month. Sandhill cranes can be seen from the Eastside viewing platform on Reeder Road. Hummingbirds have been spotted and the shore birds are beginning to migrate back. Young life can be seen as song bird chicks are coming out of the nests and the eaglets are almost ready to fledge.

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

NORTHWEST ZONEGood opportunities for rainbow trout exist in lakes that were stocked during the past several months. When fishing for cutthroat trout try small spinners or spoons on light rods and line.

FISHING

NORTH COAST LAKES: Coffenbury, Lost, Cape Meares, Hebo and Town lakes were stocked the week of June 18 with larger size rainbow trout (about 1 lb. each). No more trout stocking is scheduled for north coast lakes until September; however low water flows may require early releases from the hatchery. ODFW will announce any changes to the schedule if necessary. Anglers should use caution when heading to Lost Lake (Clatsop County) as active logging and travel restrictions are in effect. Call the Tillamook office at 503-842-2741 or Astoria Oregon Department of Forestry 503-325-5451 for more information.

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

MID COAST LAKES: Rainbow trout stocking of the Mid Coast lakes is complete for the year. Fishing should remain fair to good through June in most lakes previously stocked.

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

ALSEA RIVER: cutthroat trout

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

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

Angling for chinook in Nehalem Bay will be slow until fish begin arriving in July. Catch and release trout fishing should be good. Good numbers of resident cutthroat trout are present. Angling for sea-run cutthroat will improve later in the summer.

NESTUCCA RIVER AND THREE RIVERS: chinook, steelhead, trout

Angling for spring chinook and summer steelhead is slow to fair. Water is very low and clear. Use light gear for best results. Catch and release fishing for cutthroat trout should be good. You may check river levels at http://ahps2.wrh.noaa.gov/ahps2/hydrograph.php?wfo=pqr.

SALMON RIVER: cutthroat trout

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

SILETZ RIVER: steelhead, cutthroat trout

Steelhead fishing is good in the upper river from Moonshine Park to the fishing deadline. Good numbers of summer steelhead are starting to show. Both bank and drift boat fishing are very effective using a variety of baits, jigs, spoons and spinners with the best success in the morning and evening hours. Resident cutthroat trout angling is good throughout the mainstem and tributaries. Sea run cutthroat typically start showing around mid July in the lower portions of the river. Current river levels and forecasts can be found at http://www.nwrfc.noaa.gov/river/station/flowplot/flowplot.cgi?SILO3

SIUSLAW RIVER: cutthroat trout

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

TILLAMOOK BAY: chinook, sturgeon

Spring chinook angling is slow. Generally, most fish have moved upstream by now. Angling for sturgeon has been slow to fair. Effort has been low. Best success will be in the upper bay and Tillamook River tidewater.

WILSON AND TRASK RIVERS: steelhead, chinook, cutthroat trout

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

YAQUINA RIVER: cutthroat trout

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

VIEWING

Everyone goes to the beach at least once in the summer. This year take a little more time and look for some of Oregon's most interesting birds. Kids especially love raptors so get them a pair of kid-size binoculars and allow some time to stop and look up!

North Coast Viewing

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

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

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

Bald eagle nesting season is well-along. The juveniles, which don't develop the distinctive white head and tail until age five, should be nearing fledging from their parents' nests. Many eagle nests can be viewed along the Columbia River and around coastal estuaries. Use binoculars to scan tree lines near the water for the adult birds, which are often perched near the nest tree. Adults should be actively delivering prey items to the nest for the rapidly growing young during this time.

Arch Cape

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

Cannon Beach

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

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

Clatskanie, OR

Visit the new nature trail at Gnat Creek Hatchery for an opportunity to see Pileated woodpeckers. Both male and female have a distinctive red Mohawk crest on their heads, but the male is distinguished by a red cheek pad. Pileated woodpeckers produce 4-6 eggs in nests in wood chip-lined cavities in dead trees. Male and female Pileated woodpeckers stay together as a pair in their territory all year long.

See a photo and hear its call, http://www.birds.cornell.edu/AllAboutBirds/BirdGuide/Pileated_Woodpecker_dtl.html

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

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

Florence Area

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

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

Seaside

Visit ODFW's Jewell Meadows Wildlife Area in June and to see elk. Best viewing times are early morning and late evening. While viewing elk, look into the herds and you will be able to see the young bulls showing their spikes. Viewing for elk calves may be difficult due to the tall grass in most meadows. Watch for vegetation movement behind adults as calves try to follow their mothers through the tall grass. A variety of songbirds are visible near the bird feeders at most viewing areas. Get directions to the wildlife area, /www.dfw.state.or.us/wildlifearea

Tillamook Area

Three Arch Rocks National Wildlife Refuge is a collection of several nearshore rocks located near Oceanside. Not only is it home to the largest and most diverse seabird colony in Oregon, it also supports a breeding population of Steller sea lions. Now hundreds of thousands of seabirds are nesting on the larger rocks, including murres, auklets and puffins. A good spotting scope is very helpful for viewing. More information, http://www.fws.gov/oregoncoast/3archrocks/

Yaquina Bay

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

SOUTHWEST ZONEShad fishing is improving especially when trolling or casting shad darts. Due to the low spring chinook run this year, emergency regulations went into effect on June 21 to protect wild spring chinook salmon. From Gold Ray Dam to Rogue Elk boat ramp: June 21-June 30, closed to harvest of nonadipose fin-clipped chinook salmon; July 1-October 31, closed to all chinook salmon angling. From Rogue Elk ramp to Cole Rivers Hatchery dam: June 21-July 31, closed to harvest of nonadipose fin-clipped chinook salmon; August 1-October 31 closed to all chinook salmon angling.

FISHING

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

Fishing has been good for largemouth bass, crappie, and bluegill.

APPLEGATE RESERVOIR: trout, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass

Angling has been good for trout, largemouth bass, and smallmouth bass.

BABYFOOT LAKE: rainbow trout

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

BURMA POND: rainbow trout, largemouth bass

Angling for rainbow trout is good. Largemouth bass and panfish are also available. The water level in the pond has been lowered to facilitate repairs to the dam and will remain low through the summer.

CHETCO RIVER: cutthroat trout

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

COOS COUNTY LAKES: trout, bass

Trout and warmwater fish are also available in other local lakes. The Millicoma Interpretive Center youth fishing pond is still a nice spot to take kids trout fishing. Fishing equipment is available for kids to use at the Millicoma Pond. Warmwater fishing is good with many nice bass being caught at Tenmile Lakes. Saunders Lake and Empire Lakes can be productive for bass also.

COOS RIVER BASIN: shad, trout

Shad fishing improved and anglers had some good days in the past week. Most shad fishing takes place on the lower Coos and Millicoma Rivers where anglers troll or cast shad darts. Sunny afternoons are often the best time to catch shad. Trout angling is open with anglers restricted to flies and lures only if fishing streams above tidewater. Surf perch and other marine fish are available in Coos Bay. Anglers should concentrate around rock structure or pilings.

COQUILLE RIVER BASIN: shad, striped bass

Shad fishing has been good on the Coquille with late afternoons and into the evening the best time. The dock at Sturdivant Park is a good spot for bank fishers. Striped bass are available in the Coquille estuary, anglers usually do better fishing after dark. Sand shrimp and large plugs that immitate small fish can be effective with most fishing taking place up to Arago.

DIAMOND LAKE: trout,

The water clarity has improved at the lake which makes for better fishing. Boat anglers are still catching limits of fish. The fish have spread throughout the lake and the best fishing is occurring on the west side of the lake. Some fish are being caught near Silent Creek. Boat anglers were doing well anchored up and waiting for the fish to find the bait, although with the improved water conditions trolling has improved. Power bait has been the most effective. Anglers need to remember that the limit is five fish per day, and only one trout over 20" may be harvested per day.

DUTCH HERMAN POND: trout, bass, bluegill

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

EMIGRANT RESERVOIR: trout, bass

Angling for rainbow trout, bass, and panfish should be good.

EXPO POND: rainbow trout, bass, panfish

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

FISH LAKE: rainbow trout

Fishing for stocked rainbow trout has been good. Legal-sized rainbow trout will be stocked again this week. Algae is reducing the clarity of the lake.

GARRISON LAKE: trout, bass

Located in Port Orford. The boat access is off the 12th street boat ramp. Bank access is limited to Tseriadun State Park, 12th street boat ramp, Paradise Point Road, and Arizona Steet. Weed growth will limit bank angling. Anglers are reporting fair fishing with most fish being 8 to 10 inch rainbow trout. are still available mainly on the North end of the lake. Some largemouth bass can be caught out of the mill pond on the east side of Arizona Street in Port Orford.

HOWARD PRAIRIE: rainbow trout, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass

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

HYATT RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, largemouth bass

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

ILLINOIS RIVER: trout, steelhead

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

LAIRD LAKE: trout

Located approximately 15 miles up Elk River road. The road is gravel for the last 8 miles. The lake is small with a lot of woody material. Bank access is good, with a float tube or small inflatable boat a good choice The lake is full of 8-10 inch trout. Small spinners or single eggs are the best bait.

LAKE SELMAC: trout, bass

Fishing for rainbow trout, largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, and bullheads has been good.

LEMOLO LAKE: brown trout, rainbow trout

Fishing at Lemolo has slowed a little with the warming air temperatures. Brown trout fishing remains good at the lake. Fishermen are still catching some limits of browns and rainbows at the lake.

LIBBY POND: trout

Water temperatures and weed growth have pretty much ended the fishing season. Anglers should look to other water bodies for better fishing conditions.

LOST CREEK RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass

Fishing for trout and smallmouth bass has been good; however, water sampling has confirmed the presence of blue-green algae in concentrations which can produce toxins harmful to humans and animals. People and animals should avoid skin contact with the water and should not ingest or inhale the water. It is recommended that any fish caught be released and not be consumed. For health information, contact Ken Kauffman, DHS Environmental Health Specialist, at (971) 673-0435 or visit http://oregon.gov/DHS/ph/envtox/maadvisories.shtml.

MEDCO POND: trout, bass

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

PACIFIC OCEAN & BEACHES: chinook, halibut

The selective coho season in the ocean from Cape Falcon to Humbug Mountain opened June 23rd. Ocean salmon fishing was slow but a few coho and Chinook were caught. Salmon fishing should improve over the next few weeks. Bottom fishing has slowed some but fish are still available. Surfperch fishing has been fair for anglers casting bait from the beach. Sand shrimp, clam necks, mussels, and marine worms are all popular choices for bait. Good areas for surfperch include Horsfall Beach and Whiskey Run Beach south to Bandon. Look for steep beaches or small streams entering the ocean. Surfperch can also be found along jetties and pile structures. Striped bass occasionally surprise surf fishers also.

REINHART PARK POND: trout, bass

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

ROGUE RIVER, LOWER: chinook, steelhead

Low returns of wild spring Chinook have resulted in closing the Rogue River to the harvest of non-adiposed clipped Chinook as of June 21st. Anglers targeting spring Chinook have been reporting mixed catches of hatchery and wild Chinook. Even with the closure on wild Chinook anglers should have a pretty good chance at catching a hatchery fish. This time of year anglers have a choice of fishing the bay or up river, both can be excellent choices. No reports of summer steelhead being caught.

Specific Rogue River emergency closure regulations are as follows:

* Mouth upstream to Whiskey Creek Boat Landing: June 21 n July 13 anglers may retain only adipose fin-clipped chinook.

* Whiskey Creek upstream to Hog Creek Boat Landing: June 21 n July 31 anglers may retain only adipose fin-clipped Chinook.

* Hog Creek Boat Landing upstream to Gold Ray Dam: June 21 n Aug. 14 anglers may retain only adipose fin-clipped chinook.

* Gold Ray Dam to the Rogue Elk Boat Ramp: June 21 n June 30 anglers may retain only adipose fin-clipped chinook. This area is closed to spring chinook angling July 1 n Oct. 31.

* Rogue Elk Boat Ramp to Cole Rivers Hatchery diversion dam: June 21 n July 31 anglers may retain only adipose fin-clipped chinook.

ROGUE RIVER, MIDDLE: chinook, trout

Angling for spring chinook improved slightly this past week but angler success is still slow. A few summer steelhead as starting to show up in the catch. Flows were 2,260 cubic feet per second at Grants Pass as of Monday morning. Due to the low spring chinook run this year, emergency regulations went into effect on June 21 to protect the wild spring chinook salmon. The Rogue River will be closed to harvest of nonadipose fin-clipped chinook salmon through July 31 from Whiskey Creek to Hog Creek boat landing and through August 14 from Hog Creek boat landing to Gold Ray Dam. The Rogue River is now open to trout angling; however, only adipose fin-clipped rainbow trout may be kept.

ROGUE RIVER, UPPER: chinook, trout

Angling for spring chinook has been fair, with the best chance for success occurring early or late in the day. Anglers are starting to catch a few summer steelhead. The number of chinook and steelhead moving into the upper river has remained low. A total of 7,451 spring chinook salmon and 316 summer steelhead have been counted at Gold Ray Dam as of June 21. Due to the low spring chinook run this year, emergency regulations went into effect on June 21 to protect the wild spring chinook salmon. From Gold Ray Dam to Rogue Elk boat ramp: June 21-June 30, closed to harvest of nonadipose fin-clipped chinook salmon; July 1-October 31, closed to all chinook salmon angling. From Rogue Elk ramp to Cole Rivers Hatchery dam: June 21-July 31, closed to harvest of nonadipose fin-clipped chinook salmon; August 1-October 31,closed to all chinook salmon angling. The outflows from Lost Creek Reservoir were 2,304 cubic feet per second and the outflow temperature was 51oF as of Monday morning. The Rogue River is open to trout angling; however, only adipose fin-clipped rainbow trout may be kept.

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

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

SODA SPRINGS RESERVOIR: trout

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

SMITH RIVER: striped bass, trout

Stripers are being caught in the Smith River estuary. Most striper fishing is done by boat in the lower ten miles of the estuary. Trout season is open on Smith River and fishing should be good. Small spinners and rooster tails generally work the best. Mainstem Smith River below Sisters Creek is catch and release only on trout. Tributaries and the mainstem above Sisters is open for harvest of trout

SOUTH COAST LAKES AND PONDS: trout

Garrison Lake is still the number one choice on for trout anglers. There are still a large number of trophy trout as well as 8 to 10 inch rainbow and cutthroat available. The fish seemed to be concentrated on the North side of the lake. Anglers will need to fish from a boat to keep outside the weed line.

SOUTH COAST STREAMS: cutthroat trout, steelhead smolts

Anglers can expect a mix of post spawn sea runs and resident cutthroat. Both of which are activily feeding on chinook fry and sculpins. The best action is early morning and evening. Anglers are reminded to carefully release all undersized fish and use larger lures to avoid catching chinook juveniles.

SOUTH COAST BEACHES: perch

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

SPAULDING POND: trout

Fishing is good for stocked rainbow trout.

TENMILE BASIN: trout

Trout season is now open with anglers restricted to flies and lures when fishing above tidewater. Warmwater fishing should be good for bass and bluegill in Tenmile Lake.

TOKETEE LAKE: trout

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

UMPQUA ESTUARY: sturgeon

Sturgeon fishing has been slow, some green sturgeon are being picked up in the Big Bend area. Pink fin perch fishing has finally picked up last week, and limits are being caught.

UMPQUA HIGH LAKES AND FOREBAYS: trout

A number of the high lakes, with truck access, have been stocked. Fishing in these lakes should be good and there should be large numbers of holdovers also. Many of the wilderness lakes are open and fishing for eastern brook trout is good. Check with the local Forest Service ranger districts on road conditions.

UMPQUA RIVER MAINSTEM: chinook, shad, bass

Water temperatures have increased enough to cause algae problems for anglers fishing for spring chinook. The majority of spring chinook fishermen have called it a season, although there are still fish moving through. Shad fishing was slow this year and the run is past its peak. For those who wish to continue fishing for shad, Sawyers Rapids is the place to go. Shad can be caught at the rapids through August. Smallmouth fishing has picked up, with good numbers of fish being caught from River Forks to Scottsburg. Remember this section of the river is closed to wild steelhead retention.

UMPQUA RIVER, NORTH: chinook, steelhead

Spring chinook and summer steelhead numbers crossing at Winchester Dam have picked up. Fishing remains sporadic, with some spring chinook and summer steelhead being harvested in the Rock Creek area. This is a good time to visit and see spring chinook and steelhead in the viewing windows at the dam. Winchester Dam counts show that 4158 spring chinook and 319 summer steelhead have passed over the dam through June 1st

UMPQUA RIVER, SOUTH: trout, bass

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

WILLOW LAKE: trout, bass, crappie, bluegill, yellow perch, bullhead

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

WINCHESTER BAY: crabs, sturgeon

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

SHELLFISH

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

Crabbing had been good in the ocean but bay crabbing remains slow. The COOS BAY shoals (20-30 feet deep) along the inside of the North Spit from Empire to Charleston is a good area for crabbing. Public crabbing docks can be found in Winchester Bay, Bandon, Charleston, and Empire.

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

VIEWING

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

Coos County

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

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

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

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

Other migrants to be aware of are shorebirds. Various species of sand pipers, plovers and other shore birds are appearing in bays, wetlands and along beaches as they migrate north. These birds can be very entertaining to watch as they dart around feeding. Occasionally, large groups of black brant can be seen resting in local bays on their migration north.

Douglas County

Diamond Lake

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

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

Roseburg

Ducklings and goslings are now frequently observed at Stewart Park in Roseburg located on the west side of the city, surrounded by Garden Valley Boulevard, Stewart Parkway, and Stewart Park Drive. While at the park, enjoy the butterfly garden and large picnic pavilion.

Sutherlin Area

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

Umpqua River

Fish Spawning: Winter Steelhead can be observed spawning in the wild just below Soda Springs dam on the N. Umpqua River 55 miles east of Roseburg.

Fish Passage: Winter Steelhead and Spring Chinook migrating upstream pass through Winchester dam fish ladder on the N. Umpqua River, which is open to the public. To view the migrating Steelhead go to exit 129 on I-5, proceed southeast on 99 to the fish ladder on the north side of the river.

Rogue Watershed

Denman Wildlife Management Area

The area provides a covered viewing station with a good opportunity to view waterfowl, egrets, raptors and songbirds. The structure was built by the Oregon Hunters Association and is accessed by a paved, wheelchair-accessible pathway. It is on the Whetstone Pond, just north of the ODFW Rogue Watershed Field Office in Central Point. For directions, visit the ODFW Web site, http://www.dfw.state.or.us/wildlifearea/denman.htm

Grants Pass Area

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

Medford Area

Upper and Lower Table Rocks rise 800 feet above the valley floor. Habitat types range form oak savanna and chaparral to woodland. On the summit a diversity of wildflowers and wildlife can be found along the trails. Spring can provide some of the best viewing times. Be aware of rattle snakes along trail. For directions, http://www.nature.org/wherewework/northamerica/states/oregon/preserves/art6805.html

South Coast

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

Trail

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

CENTRAL ZONE

Opportunities exist for rainbow trout between 10 and 16 inches. Try jigging when

fishing for kokanee.

FISHING

ANTELOPE FLAT RESERVOIR: trout

Angling for 14-18 inch carryover rainbow trout are excellent.

BIG LAVA LAKE: trout

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

CLEAR LAKE: trout

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

CRANE PRAIRIE RESERVOIR: trout

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

CRESCENT LAKE: trout, kokanee

Brown trout and kokanee catches alike have slowed.

CRESCENT LAKE: trout, kokanee

Brown trout catches at Crescent Lake have picked up a little and folks are still having fair success for kokanee.

CROOKED RIVER BELOW BOWMAN DAM: trout

There have been recent reports that redband trout angling has been picking up with several fish caught in the 14-16 inch range.

CULTUS LAKE: No report.

DESCHUTES RIVER: Lake Billy Chinook to Benham Falls: trout

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

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

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

BENHAM FALLS TO WICKIUP RESERVOIR: trout

Reports of some nice brown trout being caught in this reach.

WICKIUP TO CRANE PRAIRIE RESERVOIR: trout

Reports of a few nice rainbow trout being caught in this reach.

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

EAST LAKE: trout, salmon

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

ELK LAKE: trout, kokanee

Anglers are reporting nice brook trout in the creel.

FALL RIVER: Anglers are reporting moderate success. .

FROG LAKE: trout

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

HAYSTACK RESERVOIR: trout

Opportunities for 12-18 inch rainbow and brown trout are fair to good.

HOOD RIVER: chinook, steelhead

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

HOSMER LAKE: Anglers are reporting that action is slow for Atlantic salmon and good fro brook trout.

LAKE BILLY CHINOOK: trout, bass

Bull trout angling is slow. Smallmouth bass opportunities are good. Brown and rainbow trout angling in the upper ends of the Deschutes and Crooked River Arms has been good. Recent surveys indicate kokanee numbers are fair with fish averaging 10-12 inches and in very good condition. All boat ramps are operational.

LAKE SIMTUSTUS- trout

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

LAURANCE LAKE: trout, bass

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

LITTLE LAVA LAKE: trout

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

LOST LAKE: trout

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

METOLIUS RIVER: No anglers were interviewed over the weekend.

NORTH TWIN: trout

Angling is still a bit on slow side. Late winter/early spring at North Twin Lake provides a good opportunity for rainbow trout which carried over from the summer of 2006.

OCHOCO RESERVOIR: trout, bullhead

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

ODELL LAKE: kokanee

Odell has slowed for kokanee though the lake trout fishery has reportedly picked up. Kokanee are running 9 to 12 inches in length.

PAULINA LAKE: kokanee, trout

The kokanee are reportedly biting well for those anglers jigging. It is supposedly a little slower for those anglers trolling. Anglers are reporting good catches of kokanee in the 8 n 10 inch range. The brown trout fishing is still a little on the slow side.

PINE HOLLOW RESERVOIR: trout

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

PRINEVILLE RESERVOIR: trout

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

ROCK CREEK RESERVOIR: trout

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

SOUTH TWIN: trout

The weekend fishing on South Twin was reported to be fair. .. South Twin Lake provides good opportunity for 10 to 16 inch rainbow trout. The lake has good shoreline access and provides good shelter from the wind.

WALTON LAKE: trout

Opportunities for legal sized rainbow trout are excellent. Carryover rainbow trout up to 16 inches are also available. The campground is open and the boat launch is available for use (no motors).

WICKIUP RESERVOIR: kokanee, trout

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

VIEWING

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

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

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

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

Bend

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

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

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

The following viewing opportunities remain good in June.

Camp Sherman Area: black-backed and three-toed woodpeckers, white-headed woodpeckers and red-naped sapsuckers, green-tailed towhees and fox sparrows

Check out some of the recent forest burn areas around Santiam Pass and the Metolius area to see several woodpecker species including black-backed and three-toed woodpeckers, white-headed woodpeckers and red-naped sapsuckers. Green-tailed towhees and fox sparrows are common understory species where bitterbrush and manzanita occur.

For birdwatchers, the white-headed woodpecker is one of the most sought-after western birds. It is a striking species with a white head and throat and white wing patches that contrast with a coal-black body.

Prineville Area

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

The Dalles

Visitors to Lower Deschutes Wildlife Area can see California bighorn sheep on a regular basis upstream of Harris Canyon (RM 12). Access will be by boat or bicycle. Sheep can also be seen on the Deschutes River down the Mack's Canyon Road down stream of Shearer's Falls with a major lambing grounds at Beavertail. The Wildlife Area is located 17 miles east of The Dalles. Directions. http://www.dfw.state.or.us/wildlifearea/lowerdeschutes.htm

A lone male Rocky Mountain goat has taken up residence along I-84 east of The Dalles. It can generally be spotted south of the freeway between mile posts 90 and 93.

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

To see a photo and learn more.

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

SOUTHEAST ZONE

Some lakes and reservoirs were recently stocked with legal rainbow trout. Try using small nymphs, spinners and bait when fishing for brook and rainbow trout.

FISHING

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

ANA RESERVOIR: rainbow trout

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

ANA RIVER: rainbow trout

Angling for rainbow trout has been slow. Look for rising trout in shaded areas of the river or wait until overcast days to fish over rising fish. Flows are currently low but will increase in late June through July and then drop again. Fingerling rainbow trout below the dam will take most bait and flies which make it difficult to catch larger fish. These fish can be very spooky so stealth is required. Bait angling is allowed and productive.

BEULAH RESERVOIR: redband trout, whitefish, bull trout

The reservoir was 51 percent full on June 24, and inflow was 38 cfs. Fishing is slow.

BIG ROCK RESERVOIR: rainbow trout

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

BLITZEN RIVER: trout

Fair to good angling for redband trout. Flow fluctuated between approximately 80 and 130 cfs from June 19-June 25. Flow was 83 cfs June 25

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

The reservoir was 51 percent full on June 24. Angling for warmwater fish is fair.

BURNS POND: trout

The pond was stocked with rainbow trout three weeks ago. Angling is fair to good for 8 to 12 inch rainbow trout using spoons or spinners and fair to good angling with worms or power bait.

BURNT RIVER: trout

Legal trout were re-stocked the last week in May in the South Fork Burnt River.

CAMPBELL/DEADHORSE: Rainbow trout and brook trout

Access to these lakes will be closed until the 4th of July to remove hazard trees along the road. Angling on 4th of July should be very good.

CHICKAHOMINY RESERVOIR: trout

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

CHEWAUCAN RIVER: redband trout

River flows are decreasing and water temperatures are producing improved fishing conditions. Look for fishing to be best in the early mornings.

COTTONWOOD MEADOWS LAKE: rainbow trout, brook trout

Access is open, fishing has been fair. Cottonwood was stocked with legal and trophy sized rainbow trout in late May.

COTTONWOOD RESERVOIR: redband trout

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

DELINTMENT LAKE: trout

The lake was stocked with rainbow trout in May. Fair to good angling for 8-14 inch rainbow trout. No reports on what gear has been most effective. Aquatic vegetation growth may make bank angling more challenging as the weather warms. The lake does have an accessible fishing platform, and the area around the platform tends to stay free of aquatic vegetation.

DEEP CREEK: redband trout

Angling is fair for redband trout.

DOG LAKE: bass

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

DUNCAN RESERVOIR: rainbow trout

Angling for rainbow trout has been slow. The reservoir has lots of vegetation on the south end which makes for difficult angling. The fingerling rainbow trout make up most of the catch and make catching larger fish difficult.

EAGLE CREEK and TRIBUTARIES: trout

Should be good for trout.

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

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

FOURMILE LAKE: kokanee, lake Trout, rainbow trout, brook trout

Access is open to Fourmile Lake and the campground is open. The lake is full and launching boats is a tight fit due the large number of logs along the shoreline. Angling is fair for rainbow trout, lake trout and kokanee. Kokanee are averaging around 12 inches. Angling is slow for brook trout. Trolling spoons, spinners or other lures can be effective. Downriggers are often needed to catch kokanee and lake trout as they are often in deep water. The northwest side of the lake is a good place to begin angling. Angling with bait from shore is usually slow.

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

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

HIGGINS RESERVOIR: trout

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

HOLBROOK RESERVOIR: rainbow trout

The abundance of trout has been reduced by the illegal introduction of tui chub, larger trout are still available. Holbrook will be stocked with legal and trophy trout this week.

UPPER KLAMATH AND AGENCY LAKE: redband trout and yellow perch

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

KLAMATH RIVER: rainbow-redband trout

Angling below Keno Dam to Topsy reservoir is closed. Angling below JC Boyle Powerhouse is fair due to flow fluctuations. River flows below the Powerhouse will be 1500-2000 cfs during most of the daylight hours which creates difficult angling conditions; however some trout can be captured in the shallow, slow moving water near shore using spinners. Redband- rainbow trout are concentrated so covering lots of water will increase your odds of catching fish. The river section from JC Boyle Dam to JC Boyle Powerhouse is good for rainbow-redband trout 6-12 inches. River flows in this section are a constant 380 cfs. Small spinners and flies are the most effective method for catching rainbow- redband trout in this section. Call 1-800-547-1501 for river flow information

KRUMBO RESERVOIR: trout and largemouth bass

Fair angling for 12 to 18 inch rainbow trout. There is good bank access near the boat ramp and on the southwest shoreline. There is also an accessible fishing platform near the boat ramp. No reports on what gear has been most effective. Angling is fair for largemouth bass.

LAKE OF THE WOODS: rainbow trout, kokanee, brown trout, yellow perch, brown bullhead, largemouth bass, crappie, and smallmouth bass

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

LINK RIVER: redband trout

Angling is slow as many redband trout have moved through Link River. Most anglers use minnow imitations. Access is available along the entire west side and boats can be launched at Veterans Park and motored upstream to the powerhouse. Catch rates are typically low and a good day is landing a few redband trout.

LITTLE HEART LAKE: trout

Access is open and fishing is slow due to the illegal introduction of minnows into the lake. Heart was stocked with legals in early May.

LOFTON RESERVOIR: rainbow trout

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

LONG CREEK RESERVOIR: trout

Fishing is good for small trout.

LOST RIVER: Largemouth bass, yellow perch, pumpkinseed sunfish, crappie, bullhead catfish

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

LOWER WILLIAMSON RIVER: Large redband trout and brown trout

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

LUCKY RESERVOIR: rainbow trout

The road into Lucky has been improved. Fishing has been fair, the reservoir was stocked with legal sized trout in lat May.

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

Discharge from Warm Springs Reservoir was approximately 549 cfs on June 24. No angling report.

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

Discharge from Warm Springs Reservoir was approximately 549 cfs, and discharge from Beulah Reservoir was approximately 293cfs June 24. Angling is slow.

MALHEUR RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout

Water level continues to drop. The ramp is still usable. Trout angling is good. Good numbers of trout from 10 to 16 inches are being caught. The reservoir was stocked with both fingerling and legal sized trout the last week in May.

MALHEUR RIVER, NORTH FORK: redband trout, whitefish, and bull trout

Trout angling is slow. Remember to release bull trout.

MALHEUR RIVER, MIDDLE FORK: redband trout, brook trout, and bull trout

Trout angling is slow. Remember to release bull trout.

MALONE RESERVOIR (Lost River): bullhead, sunfish, bass

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

MANN LAKE: trout

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

MILLER LAKE: large brown trout, rainbow trout and small kokanee

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

MOON RESERVOIR: bass, trout

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

MURRAY RESERVOIR: trout

Was restocked May 23 with an additional 2000 legal rainbow trout. Fishing is good.

NORTH MALHEUR BLM STOCK PONDS: hatchery rainbow trout

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

NORTH POWDER PONDS 1 & 2: trout

Both ponds were stocked in April. Fishing should be good.

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

The reservoir was 58 percent full June 24. All boat ramps are in the water. Good numbers of 8 to 10 black crappies are being caught in the middle third of the reservoir (Elbow to Airport). Bass fishing is improving.

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

Flows below the dam averaged about 255 cfs on June 24. Angling for rainbow trout and brown trout is fair. The river was stocked with rainbow trout fingerling from the gingerbread house downstream to the concrete bridge the last week of May.

OWYHEE RIVER (Upper): smallmouth bass, and channel catfish

Discharge at the Rome gauge averaged approximately 138 cfs on June 24. Angling for smallmouth and channel catfish is improving.

PAIUTE RESERVOIR: rainbow trout and cutthroat trout

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

PHILLIPS RESERVOIR: trout, perch

Was restocked with an additional 3000 legal trout week of May 21. Fishing has been fair for trout and perch. Trout are running about 12 inches. Perch are 9-11 inches. Water level is at 58 percent.

PILCHER RESERVOIR: trout

Campground is open. Fishing is Fair. Water level is at 90 percent.

PINE CREEK: trout

Open for trout fishing upstream of Oxbow bridge in Baker County.

POLE CREEK RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout

The reservoir is slowly dropping. Angling is fair.

POWDER RIVER: trout

Was re-stocked below Mason Dam with 1000 legal rainbows week of May 21.

SEVENMILE CREEK: Brook trout and brown trout

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

SHERLOCK GULCH RESERVOIR: rainbow trout

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

SID LUCE RESERVOIR: rainbow trout

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

SNAKE RIVER: channel catfish, flathead catfish, smallmouth bass

Flow was 6,594 cfs near Nyssa and approximately 8,009 cfs near Weiser on June 24. Angling for catfish is good and angling for smallmouth bass is fair.

SOUTH MALHEUR BLM STOCK PONDS: hatchery rainbow trout

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

SPAULDING RESERVOIR: rainbow trout

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

SPRAGUE RIVER: redband trout, large brown trout, brook trout

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

SUNSTONE RESERVOIR: rainbow trout

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

SYCAN RIVER: redband and brook trout

Angling is very good for brook trout above Pikes Crossing and good for redband trout below Pikes Crossing Angling is slow for redband trout from 8-12" redband trout below Teddy Powers Meadow. Large brown trout are available in the Sycan below Teddy Powers Meadow but are difficult to locate.

THOMPSON RESERVOIR: largemouth bass, rainbow trout

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

TOPSY RESERVOIR: largemouth bass, crappie, brown bullhead, pumpkinseed sunfish

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

THIEF VALLEY RESERVOIR: trout

Fishing is very good and fish are large. Due to drought conditions, the daily trout bag limit has been raised to 15 with no possession limit. Reservoir level has dropped to 65 percent.

UNITY RESERVOIR: trout, bass

Reservoir is dropping and is at 75 percent. Trolling for trout has been good. Many are using ford fenders. Bass fishing has been good also.

UPPER WILLIAMSON RIVER: redband and brook trout

Angling has been slow due to the lack of black drake mayflies. Small trico mayflies are hatching in small numbers in the morning. The black drake mayfly hatch could provide good angling this week as air temperatures have increased. Redband trout are available from six to over twenty inches with the average fish twelve inches. Brook trout are more abundant as you progress upstream and ODFW encourages unlimited harvest of brook trout.

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

The reservoir was 42 percent full and the inflow at the Drewsey gauge averaged 5 cfs on June 24. Angling is fair for yellow perch and smallmouth bass.

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

Angling for crappie is still slow due to last weeks colder weather. Crappie angling should be very good later this year.

WILLOW VALLEY RESERVOIR: largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, yellow perch and Lahontan cutthroat

Angling for largemouth bass has been good. Angling for largemouth bass should be very good in coming months. Crappie angling has been fair. Look for crappie and bass around the many wood and habitat structures in the reservoir. Lahontan cutthroat are available but rare in the catch. The most effective way to fish Willow Valley is from boat but largemouth bass can be captured at the boat ramp and all along the dam. Recent sampling has shown largemouth bass and bluegill to be abundant in the reservoir. Most bluegill are small. Black crappie are common and in the 8-10" range. The yellow perch population has decreased substantially and not worth angling for.

WOOD RIVER AND TRIBUTARIES: redband and brown trout

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

WOLF CREEK RESERVOIR:

Water level is at 40 percent. Fishing is poor.

YELLOWJACKET LAKE: trout

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

Southeast Zone: Viewing

If you are headed to southeast Oregon this summer, take a trip to ODFW's Summer Lake Wildlife Area. Birdwatchers and wildlife lovers will not be disappointed.

Currently, breeding species are in full swing attending nests and newly hatched young. Fall migration is beginning. Unsuccessful or failed breeders are returning from northerly breeding locales. Hummingbirds are increasing in number at ODFW headquarters complex feeders?black-chinned, calliope and Rufous were recently observed. Greater yellowlegs arrived over the weekend. See a photo of this large sandpiper and hear its call at WhatBird.com, http://identify.whatbird.com/obj/252/_/Greater_Yellowlegs.aspx

Check the bird list at ODFW Summer Lake headquarters for new arrivals and unusual birds. Directions to the Wildlife Area, http://www.dfw.state.or.us/wildlifearea/summerlake.htm

Burns Area

Some species of note in the basin are bald eagles, golden eagles, American white pelicans, greater sandhill cranes, white-faced ibis and long-billed curlews. Bald eagles are nesting now and fledglings (juveniles) may be seen. Juveniles are mixture of brown and white with black beaks. They do reach adult plumage until they are five or six years old.

Klamath Falls Area

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

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

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

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

Klamath Wildlife Area

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

The Wildlife Area is located four miles south of Klamath Falls. Please note, dogs are allowed in dog training area only (near boat ramp) until 1 August. Discharge of firearms is prohibited outside of hunting seasons. Discharge of handguns and rifles prohibited without permit. For directions and more information, visit the ODFW Web site, www.dfw.state.or.us/wildlifearea/klamath_wa.htm

Klamath Marsh National Wildlife Refuge

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

Summer Lake Wildlife Area

What's new?

Breeding species are in full swing attending nests and newly hatched young. Fall migration is beginning. Unsuccessful or failed breeders are returning from northerly breeding locales. Greater yellowlegs arrived over the weekend. Hummingbirds are increasing in number at ODFW headquarters complex feeders?black-chinned, calliope and Rufous were observed last week. Visit the What Bird Web site to see a photo of the very small Callipoe Hummingbird and listen to its call, http://identify.whatbird.com/obj/222/_/Calliope_Hummingbird.aspx

What's unusual?

Eurasian collared doves remain at the headquarters complex and calling is very common during the morning and evening hours. Fall migration and post breeding season dispersal is beginning to occur.

Birdwatching

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

Waterfowl species, primarily ducks, remain very apparent and are widely scattered across the Area. Drakes are losing their brilliant nuptial plumage now and beginning to molt. Nesting for all species continues and brood rearing is well underway. Duck broods are being observed, especially during early morning and evening hours, close to the protective cover of emergent vegetation. Large numbers of gadwall broods will be appearing soon.

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

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

Shorebirds are well into breeding season activities. Nesting (there are nine species regularly on the Wildlife Area) is occurring for all species now and chicks of many species have been observer. Many killdeer nests have been located; viewers are urged to park and walk with caution to avoid undue disturbance or nest destruction.

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

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

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

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

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

Invertebrate activity is increasing with the warming temperatures and clouds of midges and others species are providing considerable food to insectivorous birds across the Area. Tremendous numbers of bright blue damsel flies have emerged adding considerable variety to the various shades of brilliant green vegetation. Biting insects have emerged and are increasing in number.

Facilities and Access

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

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

Non-motorized access and viewing opportunities are available across the entire Area at this time. Camping is permitted at four sites on the wildlife area.

Habitat

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

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

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

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

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

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

NORTHEAST ZONE

Try fishing early in the mornings or later in the evenings as water temperatures cool down. The Umatilla River spring chinook season is closed.

FISHING

CUTSFORTH POND: trout

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

HONEYMOON AND TEPEE PONDS: trout

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

JOHN DAY RIVER: bass

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

JUBILEE LAKE: trout

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

KINNEY LAKE: trout

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

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

MAGONE LAKE: trout

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

MCKAY RESERVOIR: crappie, perch

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

MCNARY, HAT ROCK AND TATONE PONDS: trout

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

PENLAND LAKE: trout

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

SALT CREEK AND MCGRAW PONDS: trout

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

WALLOWA WILDLIFE AREA POND: trout

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

UMATILLA FOREST PONDS: trout

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

UMATILLA RIVER: trout

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

WALLOWA LAKE: trout, kokanee

Fair angling for kokanee to 15" and good for stocked rainbow trout to several pounds, lake conditions are good, windy days can be a challenge, try the north end for kokanee and the south end for rainbow, boat angling is best but the south east shore can be productive for rainbow and kokanee. Most fish are caught with troll gear, flashers followed up with a wedding ring and maggots or worms. Kokanee anglers are having their best success trolling at 25 to 50 feet deep. Lures or worm and bobber can be effective from the bank.

WALLOWA AND IMNAHA RIVERS: trout

Flows are high from recent rain and spring runoff. Expect fair angling for trout.

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

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

WESTON POND: trout

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

WILLOW CREEK: trout

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

WILLOW CREEK RESERVOIR: bass, catfish

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

Northeast Zone: Viewing

Headed to Idaho or other points east? Visit the Ladd Marsh Wildlife Area, a popular bird and wildlife viewing area located south of La Grande off of I-84. The 3,000-acre wetland area is managed by ODFW. For information about the Wildlife Area, http://www.dfw.state.or.us/wildlifearea/ladd_marsh_wildlife.htm

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

And, don't pass up the Hells Canyon Scenic Byway. For information visit, http://www.visitlagrande.com/sightseeing.html

Baker County

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

Excellent birding can be found throughout Baker County. Try birdwatching in different habitat to find a variety of different species. For greatest species diversity try birding at the Powder River Recreation Area along Hwy 7 downstream from the dam on Phillips Reservoir. An ADA accessible path leads along the river. A variety of birds can be seen including hummingbirds, dippers, woodpeckers, warblers and raptors. Directions to Powder River Recreation Area, http://www.fs.fed.us/r6/w-w/recreation/trails-brd/TR-Powder-River-Rec.shtml

Wallowa Whitman National Forest

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

For information, http://www.fs.fed.us/r6/w-w/

SNAKE RIVER ZONE

Good opportunities exist for catching catfish and try fishing for crappie at night. Fishing for smallmouth bass in improving.

FISHING

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

OXBOW RESERVOIR: Crappie fishing is good. Bass are being caught as well but are catch and release only until July 1.

HELLS CANYON RESERVOIR: Crappie, bass and perch fishing is good. Catfish angling is picking up.

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

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

Flow was 6,594 cfs near Nyssa and approximately 8,009 cfs near Weiser on June 24. Angling for catfish is good and angling for smallmouth bass is fair.

SNAKE RIVER Zone Summer Viewing

Hells Canyon National Recreation Area

The following information about summer wildlife viewing comes from the Hells Canyon Recreation Area Web site at: http://www.fs.fed.us/hellscanyon/life_and_the_land/wildlife/

Summer - June, July, and August

June is a particularly rewarding time to see wildlife from the lowest elevations to as high as receding snow will permit travel. The patient and lucky observer may see river otter in rivers or larger creeks. The small canyon wren flits between rocks in bunchgrass areas, and the powerful badger burrows for smaller rodents. In the early evening, find a comfortable sitting rock overlooking the rivers and listen for the winnowing of the common snipe and the whizzing boom of the common nighthawk. You may also see the butterfly-like flight of the tiny western pipistrelle bat in search of mosquitoes and no-see-ums.

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

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

If your summer visit takes you high into the timbered areas, you may see or hear the pileated woodpecker, the largest North American woodpecker. Watch out! You may get your hat knocked off by a swooping goshawk if you wander too close to its nest during the month of June. The diligent observer may find tracks or even see the pine marten, a small mammal similar to a mink.

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

COLUMBIA RIVER ZONESalmon, Steelhead, and Shad:

COLUMBIA RIVER MAINSTEM, Tongue Point to McNary Dam: Effective June 16 through June 30, 2007 (or until the catch guideline is reached) this section of the Columbia River is open to the retention of summer chinook. The daily bag limit is two adult summer chinook salmon or adipose fin-clipped steelhead plus five chinook jacks. It is unlawful to angle for jack salmon after the adult bag limit has been reached.

In the lower Columbia River, catch rates for salmon and steelhead improved slightly from the previous weekend. Boat anglers are catching salmon on spinners, wobblers, and qwickfish, while bank anglers are catching salmon and steelhead on spinners and spin-n-glos. Shad angling remains good for both boat and bank anglers in the Gorge and fair for boat anglers between Troutdale and Longview. Shad are being taken on small darts, spoons, and jigs.

Gorge Bank: chinook

Weekend checking showed seven adult and one jack summer chinook kept for 45 salmonid anglers; and 369 shad kept plus 27 shad released for 162 shad anglers.

Gorge Boats: chinook

Weekend checking showed 17 adult and three jack summer chinook kept for 26 salmonid boats; and 204 shad kept for nine shad boats (complete trips).

Troutdale Boats: chinook

Weekend checking showed four summer chinook kept for 77 salmonid boats; and no shad reported for three shad boats.

Portland to Clatskanie Bank: chinook, steelhead

Weekly checking showed seven adipose fin-clipped adult spring chinook, three jack spring chinook, and 10 adipose fin-clipped summer steelhead kept, plus two unclipped spring chinook and two unclipped steelhead released for 102 salmonid anglers.

Portland to Longview Boats: chinook, steelhead

Weekend checking showed six summer chinook and five adipose fin-clipped summer steelhead kept, plus one unclipped steelhead released for 50 salmonid boats (complete trips).

Estuary Bank: chinook, steelhead

Weekend checking showed four adult and two jack summer chinook, and three adipose fin-clipped summer steelhead kept for 43 bank anglers.

Estuary Boats: chinook, steelhead

Weekend checking showed three summer chinook and two adipose fin-clipped summer steelhead kept for nine boats.

Bonneville Pool Boat and Bank:

Weekly checking showed no catch reported for 21 bank anglers.

The Dalles Pool Boat and Bank:

No report.

John Day Pool Boat and Bank:

No report.

Sturgeon:

BUOY 10 UPSTREAM TO WAUNA POWERLINES (including Youngs Bay and all adjacent Washington tributaries): This section of the Columbia is currently open to the retention of sturgeon seven days per week with a daily limit of one sturgeon between 45-60 inches through Wednesday, July 4. The retention of green sturgeon is prohibited.

WAUNA POWERLINES UPSTREAM TO MARKER 85 (including all adjacent Washington tributaries and the Willamette River downstream of Willamette Falls including the Multnomah Channel): This section of the Columbia River is currently open to the retention of sturgeon on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays with a daily bag limit of one sturgeon between 42-60 inches in length and an annual limit of five fish effective through July 31. Catch and release of sturgeon is allowed on non-retention days. In the spawning sanctuary between Marker 85 upstream to Bonneville Dam all sturgeon angling is prohibited through Tuesday, July 31. The retention of green sturgeon is prohibited.

BONNEVILLE DAM UPSTREAM TO THE DALLES DAM: The retention of sturgeon is currently allowed in the Bonneville Pool seven days per week. The daily limit is one sturgeon between 42 and 60 inches and the annual limit is five fish.

THE DALLES DAM UPSTREAM TO MCNARY DAM:

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

Catch rates for sturgeon in the lower Columbia River declined this past weekend. The best catch rates were in the Estuary where boat anglers averaged 1.01 legal white sturgeon caught per boat. In the Gorge below Marker 85, boat anglers averaged 0.06 legal white sturgeon caught per boat, while boat anglers in the Portland to Longview area averaged 0.07 legal white sturgeon caught per boat.

Gorge Boats:

Weekend checking showed two legal white sturgeon kept, plus 325 sublegal and 21 oversize sturgeon released for 31 boats (complete trips).

Portland to Longview Bank:

Weekend checking showed six sublegal sturgeon released for five bank anglers.

Portland to Longview Boats:

Weekend checking showed one legal white sturgeon kept, plus one oversize, and 51 sublegal sturgeon released for 15 boats (complete trips).

Estuary Boats:

Weekend checking showed 179 legal white sturgeon kept, plus two legal, 24 oversize, and 647 sublegal sturgeon released for 179 boats. Charter boat anglers average 0.50 legal sturgeon per rod.

Estuary Bank:

Weekly checking showed no catch reported for five bank rods.

Bonneville Pool:

Weekly checking showed one legal white sturgeon kept, plus five legal, 84 sublegal and three oversize sturgeon released for 60 bank rods; and three legal sturgeon kept, plus one legal, 25 sublegal and one oversize sturgeon released for seven boats.

The Dalles Pool:

No report.

John Day Pool:

No report.

Walleye

Troutdale:

Weekend checking showed no catch reported for one boat.

Bonneville Pool:

Weekly checking showed no catch reported for one boat.

The Dalles Pool:

No report.

John Day Pool:

No report.

Viewing

When heading out on vacation through the Columbia River Gorge take your binoculars and a side trip or two to see Oregon's birds and wildlife. From Angels Rest, easily accessible from I-84, to the mouth of the Hood River to Lost Lake, the Oregon Cascades Birding Trail Guide lets you know what to look for. See the Mount Hood Loop, including the Columbia River Gorge online at http://www.oregonbirdingtrails.org/mt_hood.pdf

IRRIGON WILDLIFE AREA

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

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

MARINE ZONE

FISHING

Anglers willing to go more than 25 miles offshore report good catches of tuna. One boat returned to Newport with more than 45 tuna aboard last week.

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

A series of early morning minus tides from June 28 through July 5 will provide good opportunity for razor clam and bay clam digging. A minus tide is also an excellent time to go tide pooling.

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

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

Fishing for coho was slow during the opening weekend at about one fish per six to eight anglers. The majority of hookups were with native coho, which must be released. All retained coho must have a healed adipose fin clip. Fishing for chinook salmon was slow this past week with low effort and only one in 10 anglers reporting success.

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

The marine daily bag limit for 2007 is six fish (including rockfish, greenling, cabezon and other marine species) and two lingcod and 15 surfperch. New this year, the daily limit for flatfish (flounders, soles, sanddabs, turbots and halibuts except Pacific halibut) is 25. Canary rockfish and yelloweye rockfish may not be retained.

Species illustrations and descriptions:

The Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations booklet (page 98):

The Red Rockfish Identification Guide

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

Complete regulations

The Marine Sport Fishing Supplement

Coastwide catches of Pacific halibut averaged about one per angler again this week. The season opened May 1 in all-depth waters north of Cape Falcon and in nearshore waters (shoreward of the 40-fathom curve) off the Oregon central coast. The all-depth halibut fishery for Oregon's central coast between Cape Falcon and Humbug Mountain has been extended to June 21-23 and will continue on one or more of the following days: July 5-7 and 19-21 until the quota is met. The area south of Humbug Mountain runs May 1 through Oct. 31, seven days a week.

More information

Crabbing success in the ocean, bays and estuaries is about two crab per angler, except out of Garibaldi and Charleston where anglers report five crab per angler. For sport crabbers the minimum size for Dungeness crab is 5 ¾ inches measured in a straight line across the back immediately in front of, but not including, the points. For a photograph and diagram see page 97 of the Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations booklet.

The entire Oregon coast is open for the harvest of razor clams. The daily limit for razor clams is the first 15 taken regardless of size or condition.

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

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

Information on domoic acid:

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

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

VIEWING

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

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

Calmer oceans and clear weather also allows viewing of whales and other marine mammals. Oregon's high ocean cliffs provide good vantage points to look for the more than 200 resident grey whales that stay along the Oregon coast during the summer.

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

Here are some other good viewing spots.

Bandon Area

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

Cannon Beach

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

The program features:

- Bird stations with spotting scopes

- Display tanks and microscopes

- Interpretative signs and informative brochures

- Trained naturalists and interpreters

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

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

Oceanside/Tillamook Area

Three Arch Rocks Refuge

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

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

Cape Meares National Wildlife Refuge

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