The Oregon Recreation Report (fishing, hunting, viewing), updated June 5 by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife:

WILLAMETTE ZONE

Welcome to the Willamette Zone Recreation Report. Find information on Fishing, Hunting and Viewing.

Look for spring chinook and summer steelhead in the Clackamas River and shad fishing is heating up in the Willamette River. The lakes are regularly stocked with legal sized rainbow trout and fishing opportunities exist for bass, catfish, crappie, bluegill, and yellow perch.

FISHING HOT SPOTS

Clackamas River

Willamette River

Lakes

CLACKAMAS RIVER

Spring chinook and summer steelhead should be spread throughout the system. Water conditions and flows will dictate the accessibility of the river. The lower river may still be available by jet sled but the areas above Carver up to McIver Park will likely be a drift boat only fishery. It is inadvisable and dangerous to take a boat on the Clackamas River without previous experience.

The best bank fishing opportunities will mainly be found in the McIver Park area. Dog Creek below the hatchery, and the bank from the upper boat ramp all the way up to the deadline near Rivermill Dam should produce fish. The opposite bank accessible from Rivermill Road near Estacada should also be productive.

Depending on conditions anglers should try egg clusters or sand shrimp if using bait. An assortment of spinners, plugs, corkies and yarn, or jigs will also attract chinook and steelhead.

The Clackamas River is also open for catch and release trout fishing.

Boat anglers can access the river at Clackamette Park, Riverside Park, Carver Boat Ramp, Barton Park, Feldheimer's Road, and McIver Park.

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.

WILLAMETTE RIVER

The dominant fishery in the Willamette in mid-June is the shad fishery. Although anglers might still find some shad in the lower river, most of the good shad angling takes place in the Oregon City area. The shad can be caught from either boat or bank methods with a wide variety of shad gear proving to be successful. Newcomers to shad angling should seek advice from local tackle shops to find out what has been the hot lure this season.

Both boat and bank anglers can access the river near Oregon City from Meldrum Bar, Dahl Park, Clackamette Park, and Sportcraft Marina.

Keeper and sublegal sturgeon can be found in good numbers in many sections of the lower Willamette. The St Johns area, the Lower Channel, and the Milwaukie/Oregon City area should all see fair to good sturgeon action for boat anglers. Bank fishing for sturgeon can be found at Meldrum Bar and at the wall in downtown Oregon City. Sturgeon anglers have used fresh smelt or herring as effective bait.

Boat anglers can access the lower channel from St Helens, Bayport Marina (Scappoose), and the Gilbert River Ramp. Fred's Marina and the St Johns boat ramp will put you near the lower harbor fishery. Those trying the Milwaukie or Oregon City areas can use several ramps including the Jefferson St Ramp, the Cedar Island Ramp in West Linn, and the ramps at Meldrum Bar, Clackamette Park, or Sportcraft Marina.

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

HENRY HAGG LAKE

Hagg Lake is regularly stocked with legal size rainbow trout during the spring months. It also provides good angling opportunities for warmwater fishing including bass, catfish, crappie, bluegill, and yellow perch. The state records for smallmouth bass and brown bullhead catfish have been caught here.

Henry Hagg Lake is an 1100 acre reservoir managed by Washington County, which charges a small fee for its use. There are boat ramps, boat rentals, a fishing pier, and several bank angling access points at the lake. Although no overnight camping is allowed there are many picnic areas and shelters available. Disabled anglers access is also plentiful.

Trout fishing is usually good at the lake, particularly after a heavy stocking. Boat anglers will often troll using flashers and a variety of baits or small spinners. Bank anglers will often bobber fish using traditional trout baits. The north half of the lake sits in the "no-wake zone" making this area a more pleasurable fishing experience.

Angling for warmwater fish is often very good in the coves and shallow areas from spring into summer. When the water gets too warm for stocking of trout in mid-summer the warmwater fish take the spotlight. Depending on the desired species anglers can be successful using spinners, surface lures, jigs, plastic baits, or a simple bobber and worm rigging.

Hagg Lake is west of Portland located about seven miles outside of Forest Grove off of Hwy 47.

BENSON LAKE

This 40 acre lake is regularly stocked with legal size rainbow trout during the spring months into early June. With a heavy stocking scheduled for the first week of June anglers should expect good action for trout at Benson Lake. It also supports a nice population of warmwater fish including bass, crappie, and catfish.

The lake is part of Benson State Park but has no boat ramp. Open bank access does allow for launching light-weight boats, rubber rafts, or float tubes. There are also good bank angling opportunities.

Trout anglers will typically fish with traditional gear, either casting spinners or fishing with bobber and worms or trout baits. Trout anglers should be fishing out towards the center of the lake away from the shallow shoreline. Warmwater angling can also be good using the same bobber and worms. Try fishing on the bottom for catfish using baits with a strong odor. If you're trying for bass or crappie, casting jigs or plugs can be successful. Warmwater fish can often be found near shallow shorelines or gathered around structure such as rocks, tall grasses or wood.

To get to Benson Lake drive east on I-84 and take the Benson State Park exit just before Multnomah Falls. The lake is on the south side of I-84 near the Hwy.

NORTH FORK RESERVIOR

Located seven miles south of Estacada this 350 acre reservoir on the Clackamas River is popular with boaters and anglers. It is heavily stocked from May through September with legal size rainbow trout. With large stockings planned the first two weeks of June it should be a good bet for local trout anglers.

The reservoir offers good trout angling for both boat and bank anglers. It can get heavily used by recreational boaters on warm days so fishing trips should be planned accordingly. Fishing in the early mornings or late evenings before dark will help beat the potential crowds and choppy water.

North Fork Reservoir offers a small grocery store, gear and bait for sale, boat rentals, a marina, and a boat ramp. There is a disabled angler fishing platform and plenty of picnic areas.

When going to the reservoir to bank fish the easiest access is along Hwy 224, with many turnouts leading to the water. There is also good bank angling where the water goes under the Hwy to the left of the main reservoir before you approach the store and boat ramp. Trout are frequently stocked in this small inlet.

Bank anglers will often fish off the bottom with worms, single salmon eggs, or other traditional trout baits. If the water conditions allow, all of these baits can be fished successfully with a bobber also. Casting small spinners can be productive as well.

Boat anglers will fish using many of the same methods as bank anglers, but they have the advantage of being able to get to more of the hot spots. If the water conditions allow, anglers can be successful by anchoring along the opposite bank from the docks, up fairly close to the bank. Both bottom fishing and bobber fishing can prove productive. Another proven technique is trolling, using flashers with bait or spinners. Trolling is best in the morning before the skiers get out on the water. If the water is too choppy or the breeze is blowing, boat anglers should go upstream to the left from the boat ramp. This is a "no-wake zone", and although fairly narrow, some good trout angling can be found here. Anchoring or trolling are both effective. Boaters should pay close attention to warning signs and water depth, since in this direction the reservoir does become the Clackamas River.

To get to North Fork Reservoir travel on Hwy 224 from Portland to Estacada. Continue up the Hwy about seven miles south past Estacada and the reservoir will be on your right. There is an entrance to Promontory Park and the reservoir on the right. Turn in and head right towards the boat ramp. It is always a good idea to stop in at the store and marina and ask what methods are the most productive.

SMALL FRY LAKE

The name of this lake is a good indication of what to expect for a couple of different reasons. The waterbody is very small, actually more like a small pond than a lake. Additionally the fishing is limited to small kids, ages twelve and under. It is owned by Portland General Electric but open to the general public for kids only. Fishing is limited to bank angling, but access is good around the entire perimeter of the water. There is a reduced daily bag limit at the pond which helps ensure that there are more trout to go around.

Small Fry Lake will be stocked three times between the end of May and the second week of June which makes it a great prospect for the smaller kids wanting to fish. The atmosphere is peaceful, there are no competitive pressures from older anglers, and limits are often had by young anglers. The small size of the lake means that serious casting is not only unnecessary but nearly impossible. The drop-off is fairly deep along the banks so bobber and bait fishing is easy.

Small Fry Lake is located very near the above mentioned North Fork Reservoir. They actually share the same entrance but instead of going right towards the boat ramp and store, you go left a very short distance to the gravel parking lot. Drive seven miles past Estacada heading south on Hwy 224. Turn right into the entrance to Promontory Park and left to Small Fry Lake.

HUNTING

Most game bird and big game seasons are closed. An exception is the extended COUGAR hunting season, designed to address high levels of damage complaints and damage-related cougar mortality, which is open in portions of the South Willamette Valley. Visit http://www.dfw.state.or.us/resources/hunting/big_game/cougar/ for more information, including the latest report on cougar mortalities and any quotas reached. The foothills adjacent to the Willamette Valley are the best spot to look for cougars. This is mostly private land; remember to ask permission before hunting.

VIEWING

It's spring and the Willamette Valley is bursting with newborn wildlife, providing opportunities for viewing and a need for caution to keep wildlife safe. Osprey nests are visible, often appearing on cell phone towers. They are on nests now and young will fledge typically by the end of August.

On warm, sunny days turtles can be observed basking on floating logs in ponds and lakes throughout the Willamette Valley and on the Lower Columbia River. They are sensitive to disturbance and should be observed quietly from a distance. Because turtles are on the decline, ODFW and the Oregon Zoo are interested in knowing about turtle sightings. For photos of Oregon's two native turtle species, the western painted turtle and the western pond turtle, visit www.willametteturtles.com/index.html. If you see a turtle, please report your sighting by completing the following on-line form, www.oregonzoo.org/Turtles/

CLACKAMAS RIVER AREA

Visit the Clackamas River to see cliff swallows nesting on mud banks. They can easily be viewed by boaters. Osprey nests are also visible from the 85-mile long river, a tributary of the Willamette. For a map, visit The Clackamas River Basin Council Web site, http://www.clackamasriver.org/projects/clickablemap.htm

EUGENE AREA

Visit ODFW's Fern Ridge Wildlife Area and make a day of it. Bird watching opportunities are available at every access point around the lake with open access by hiking or by watercraft. Bird checklists and maps are available at area parking lots or by contacting the wildlife area headquarters at (541) 935-2591. 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. Woodland nature trails are available in the East Coyote, West Coyote, and Applegate units. An extensive series of grass topped levees throughout the wetland units also offer excellent hiking access. For more information, visit www.dfw.state.or.us/wildlifearea/fernridge.htm

HILLSBORO

Jackson Bottom Wetlands Preserve, a rich wildlife refuge, is located within the city limits. Visit the preserve on Saturday, June 9 at 9:00 a.m. for the Great Blue Heron Walk. Visitors will walk about one mile to the east side of the Wetland, set up spotting scopes and check out the action! To learn more, visit http://www.jacksonbottom.org/

PORTLAND AREA

At Pittock Mansion in Portland's West Hills recent sighting include PILEATED WOODPECKER, OLIVE-SIDED FLYCATCHER, PACIFIC-SLOPE FLYCATCHER, BLACK-THROATED GRAY WARBLER and WESTERN TANAGER.

Watch for PEREGRINE FALCONS downtown-they are nesting on Portland Bridges including the Fremont. For more information, visit the Portland Audubon Society Web site, www.audubonportland.org/peregrine_delisting

BEGGARS-TICK WILDLIFE REFUGE

Named after a species of native sunflower, Beggars-tick Wildlife Refuge is a unique urban park in Portland. This 20-acre wetland is located at SE 111th Avenue, just north of Foster Road. Recent sightings include GREEN HERON, AMERICAN COOT, and VARIED THRUSH. Visit the Metro Web site for information. http://www.metro-region.org/article.cfm?articleid154

SANDY AREA

See BALD EAGLES and OSPREY foraging at Rosyln Lake. An active BALD EAGLE is nest site visible from lake.

SAUVIE ISLAND AREA

A variety of newborn wildlife is active at Sauvie Island Wildlife Area. The BALD EAGLES' eggs are hatching and eaglets should be visible soon. Deer fawns have also been sighted in addition to several waterfowl young including GOSLINGS and DUCKLINGS. A parking permit is required for the Wildlife Area and can be purchased at several ODFW Point of sale agents. A daily permit is $3.50 and an annual permit is $11.00.

NORTHWEST ZONE

Welcome to the Northwest Zone Recreation Report. Find information on Fishing, Hunting and Viewing.

As the weather warms up so does fishing for warmwater species such as trout, largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, brown bullhead and yellow perch. And opportunities still exist for catching spring chinook and sea-run cutthroat trout. For more information about warmwater fishing go to: www.dfw.state.or.us/warm_water_fishing/index.asp

FISHING HOT SPOTS

* North Coast Rivers and Bays

* North Coast Lakes and Ponds

* Mid Coast Waterbodies

NORTH COAST RIVERS AND BAYS

NECANICUM RIVER

Open for catch and release trout fishing. Expect angling to be fair for resident cutthroat trout. Sea-run cutthroat will arrive later in the summer. Flies and small lures will produce the best results. Access to the river is available along Hwy 101 and Hwy 26 south and east of Seaside.

NEHALEM RIVER

Open for catch and release trout fishing. Expect angling to be fair to good for resident cutthroat trout. Sea-run cutthroat will arrive in better numbers later in the summer. Flies and small lures will produce the best results. Trolling or casting lures or streamer flies could produce a few early sea-runs in tidewater areas. Access on the North Fork is available off Hwy 53 near Nehalem Hatchery (at about milepost 11), and the mainstem can be accessed along Nehalem River Road between Hwy 26 and Mohler.

NEHALEM BAY

Angling for chinook salmon in Nehalem Bay is slow during June. Expect a few fish to be caught trolling herring near the mouth late in the month. Boat access to the bay is available along Hwy 101 south and north of Wheeler.

TILLAMOOK BAY

Spring chinook salmon are still available in Tillamook Bay. Expect angling to slow down as most fish have passed through the bay to upriver areas. The best action should be in the upper bay and river tidewater areas. Trolling spinners, plugs, or herring are the most productive techniques in the upper bay, with bobber and eggs/shrimp producing fish in tidewater stretches. Boat access is available at Garibaldi, the 5th Street ramp in Tillamook, or at Memaloose boat ramp on Bayocean Road west of Tillamook. Bank access is limited. A disabled angling platform is available along Hwy 131 west of Tillamook (just west of Bayocean Road).

Sturgeon fishing is generally slow this time of year. Concentrate on the upper bay and Tillamook River tidewater. Crabs and other bait robbers are a problem in the lower bay. Sand shrimp or mud shrimp fished on the bottom are the preferred baits. Some bank access is available at the disabled angling platform along Hwy 131 or along Frasier Road on the Tillamook River tidewater. Boaters may also access the Tillamook River tidewater at the Burton Bridge launch just south of Tillamook at the intersection of Frasier Road and Tillamook River Road.

TRASK RIVER

Spring chinook, summer steelhead, and cutthroat trout angling should be fair to good. The river is likely to be low and clear unless substantial rains come. Fish will be concentrated in the deeper holes, and hatchery fish tend to stay in the lower river, although a few are available in the upper reaches. Bobber and eggs/shrimp are the most productive. Boaters should use caution?low flows will make drifting the lower river difficult due to numerous shallow riffles.

Summer steelhead will be scattered throughout the river up to the deadline at Trask County Park. Plan to fish small baits or lures on light line in faster moving water or pools.

The Trask River and the North, South and East forks are open for catch and release trout fishing. The forks all close June 15. Expect angling to be fair to good for resident cutthroat trout. Sea-run cutthroat will arrive in better numbers later in the summer. Flies and small lures will produce the best results.

The Trask River can be accessed off Long Prairie and Trask River roads near Tillamook. Forest roads follow the forks upstream of Trask County Park. Boat launches are available near Hwy 101 on Long Prairie Road, at Lorens Drift and the Cedar Creek slide along Trask River Road. Launches are also available at Stones Road and Peninsula Park on the upper river, however low flows make these upper stretches extremely hazardous this time of year and should be avoided.

WILSON RIVER

Spring chinook, summer steelhead, and cutthroat trout should be fair. The river is likely to be low and very clear unless substantial rains come. Fish will be concentrated in the deeper holes. Bobber and eggs/shrimp are the most productive. Boaters should use caution- low flows will make drifting the lower river difficult due to numerous shallow riffles. A pontoon boat is best for this river in the summer.

Summer steelhead will be scattered throughout the river up to the deadline at the South Fork Wilson River. For best success fish small baits or lures on light line in faster moving water or pools.

The river is open to catch and release trout fishing. Expect angling to be fair for resident cutthroat trout. Sea-run cutthroat will arrive in better numbers later in the summer. Flies and small lures will produce the best results.

The Wilson River can be accessed along Hwy 6 from Tillamook east to the angling deadline at the South Fork. Boat launches are available at Sollie Smith (on Wilson River Loop), Donaldson bar (end of Donaldson Road off Hwy 6), and Mill Bridge gravel bar. Launches are also available at Siskeyville and Vanderzanden slides, however low flows make these upper stretches extremely hazardous this time of year and should be avoided.

NESTUCCA RIVER

Spring chinook, summer steelhead, and cutthroat trout should be fair to good. The river is likely to be low unless substantial rains come. Fish will be concentrated in the deeper holes. Most hatchery fish will be available in Three Rivers and the mainstem Nestucca River below Beaver. Bobber and eggs/shrimp is the most productive. Diver and bait or plugs is productive for boaters if there is enough flow.

Summer steelhead will be scattered upstream to the deadline at Elk Creek and in Three Rivers. Try fishing small baits or lures on light line in faster moving water or pools. Anglers are reminded that no bait is allowed above Moon Creek at Blaine.

The river is open to catch and release trout fishing. Expect angling to be fair for resident cutthroat trout. Sea-run cutthroat will arrive in better numbers later in the summer. Flies and small lures will produce the best results.

The Nestucca River can be accessed along Hwy 101 from Cloverdale to Beaver, and long Nestucca River Road east to the angling deadline at Elk Creek. Boat launches are available at Cloverdale, Hansen Rd in Hebo, Farmer Cr. Wayside, and 1st Bridge above Beaver. Upper river launches are available at 4th Bridge and 6th Bridge, however low flows make these upper stretches extremely hazardous this time of year and should be avoided.

NORTH COAST LAKES AND PONDS

COFFENBURY LAKE

ODFW will stock with rainbow trout the week of June 4 prior to Free Fishing Weekend. A fishing event at the lake is scheduled for June 9 at Fort Stevens State Park from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Disabled access is available.

Angling for warmwater fish, especially largemouth bass, should be improving as the lake warms up. Fish the edges of the lake, particularly around woody structure.

Coffenbury Lake is located in Fort Stevens State Park west of Warrenton.

SUNSET AND CULLABY LAKES, AND VERNONIA POND

ODFW's trout stocking is complete for 2007. Angling is likely to be slow to fair as many fish have been caught and others will be scattered. Fishing bait off the bottom or under a bobber is the most common technique.

Fishing for warmwater fish should be fair to good. Both lakes have largemouth bass up to several pounds. A few panfish are available also. Target weeds or woody debris around the lake shores. Sunset Lake has a high population of carp also.

Sunset and Cullaby Lakes can be accessed off Hwy 101 between Seaside and Warrenton. Vernonia Pond is located on the north end of the town of Vernonia.

LOST LAKE

ODFW stocked with rainbow trout the week of May 14. Fishing should be fair. The next scheduled stocking is the week of June 18. Most people fish bait off the bottom or under bobbers. Casting small lures will produce some fish also. A small boat may be launched at the lake.

The lake is accessible off forest roads leading from Nehalem River Road near Spruce Run Campground, or off Hwy 26. Active logging is occurring around the lake this summer. Travel restrictions may be in effect. Contact the Oregon Department of Forestry in Astoria at (503) 325-5451.

CAPE MEARES, HEBO, AND TOWN LAKES

ODFW will stock with rainbow trout the week of June 4 prior to Free Fishing Weekend. A free fishing day event hosted by the U.S. Forest Service will be held June 9 at Hebo Lake from 8:00 a.m. to noon. Disabled access is available.

Town and Cape Meares lakes offer fair fishing for largemouth bass.

Town Lake is located on Sandlake Road near Pacific City, Hebo Lake is located on Forest Rodd 14 northeast of Hebo, and Cape Meares Lake is located on Bayocean Road west of Tillamook.

LYTLE, SMITH, SPRING, SOUTH, NORTH, BATTLE AND TAHOE LAKES

ODFW's trout stocking is complete for the year. Expect angling to be slow to fair as many of the trout have been caught.

Lake Lytle offers the best warmwater fishing opportunity. Good numbers of largemouth bass are available, with some up to 5 lbs. Some yellow perch are also available. Smith Lake also has some yellow perch but most are very small. Boat access is available at Lytle.

Lytle, Smith and Spring Lakes are located just off Hwy 101 near Rockaway Beach. North and South Lakes are located off Forest Road 14 northeast of Hebo (just a few miles from Hebo Lake). Battle Lake is a walk-in lake. Access to the trailhead (blocked road) is off forest roads leading from E. Beaver Creek Road near Hemlock. Tahoe Lake is located in the headwaters of the South Fork Trask River. Follow South Fork Trask River Road from Trask County Park (approximately 8 miles).

NEDONNA POND AND TRASK HATCHERY

Free Fishing Weekend events will be held at these locations for youths on June 9. Nedonna Pond's event will run from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. for young anglers 12 and under. Trask Fish Hatchery's event will run from 8 a.m. until noon for anglers 12 and under and all ages from noon until 3 p.m. Contact ODFW in Tillamook, (503) 842-2741, for more information. Nedonna Pond is located just north of Rockaway Beach.

Lake fishing guides for Clatsop and Tillamook counties are available at the Tillamook ODFW office and on the ODFW website. The pamphlets highlight the major lakes in the areas, and include driving directions to each lake. http://www.dfw.state.or.us/resources/fishing/2007_stocking_schedules.asp

MID COAST WATERBODIES

SILETZ RIVER

The summer steelhead run peaks in July but has good returns by early June. The run is monitored three days per week at a fish trap in the mainstem Siletz River. Returning hatchery fish are recycled back down river and released at Moonshine Park. Run status can be checked by calling the Newport Office, (541) 867-4741. Best fishing opportunities are from the bank located near Moonshine Park, river mile 52.5 and up river to the fishing deadline, river mile 64.5 and/or road mile 12.5. Public and private roads run along the river from Moonshine Park up to the fishing deadline. A variety of spoons, spinners or jigs can be effective, and bait is allowed. Best fishing typically occurs in the morning and late afternoon hours. Only adipose clipped steelhead may be retained. Cutthroat trout angling can also be good in this area under similar methods.

Public driving access above the 1 mile marker on the gravel Gorge Logging Road is limited to weekend only but walking and/or bike riding is allowed during week days. Caution should be taken on the Gorge Road because of logging activity in the area. To reach Moonshine Park, travel approximately 7 miles east of the town of Siletz along the Logsden Road to the town of Logsden and turn north after crossing the Siletz River and go approximately 4 miles directly to Moonshine Park. Fishing conditions will remain the same through June.

BIG CREEK RESERVOIRS 1&2

Both reservoirs are stocked on multiple occasions through May and early June with legal-sized rainbow trout. Fishing will remain productive through the month of June. Good road and bank access runs along the north side of both reservoirs. Casting small spoons and spinners, bait and bobber sets and/or sinkers 18 inches up from a piece of power bait are all effective techniques. Small boats may be used (no actual launch) and no gasoline motors are allowed. The reservoirs are located on the north end of Newport. Head north on Hwy 101, turn east (left) onto 31st Then turn right onto Harney Drive and left on Big Creek Road.

OLALLA RESERVOIR

Olalla Reservoir is privately owned by Georgia Pacific Lumber Company. Public access is allowed during daylight hours only. A small boat launch exists but no gasoline motors are allowed. The reservoir is stocked by ODFW on multiple occasions in May through early June with legal-sized rainbow trout. Periodically excess steelhead trout are released into the reservoir. In addition, a variety of warmwater species inhabit the reservoir such as yellow perch, bullhead and large mouth bass but at lower levels. From Newport, travel east along Hwy 20 to approximately Mile Post 7. Turn north on Olalla Road and continue a few miles to the road ends at the reservoir.

SILTCOOS AND TAHKENITCH LAKES

Siltcoos and Tahkenitch Lakes are large lakes located south of Florence along Hwy 101 between the Siuslaw River to the north and Umpqua River to the south. Signs along Hwy 101 mark the lakes. Each lake has one or more day-use parks and boat launch as well as a seasonal campground. The lakes are known for producing good numbers of large mouth bass, yellow perch, blue gill, crappie and brown bullhead. The best fishing opportunities will be from a boat. However, there are a few docks associated with the day-use parks and campgrounds as well as other private camp locations along the lakes. Both lakes have numerous fingers full of shoreline vegetation and log structures ideal for many of these species. Also, there are numerous weed beds in deeper sections of the lake ideal for perch as well as numerous railroad trestles which are good structure to key in on. Casting or trolling lures can be very effective for bass and trout. Using a variety of small jigs and/or bait set ups works well near shoreline structure.

HUNTING

All game bird and big game seasons are closed in North Coast Watershed District but hunters can still hunt for unprotected mammals (coyotes, ground squirrels, rabbits). GROUND SQUIRREL hunting will get more challenging as summer approaches because the squirrels have more cover and spend most of their time underground when the weather is hot.

VIEWING

The Northwest Zone is an area of forests, dunes, beaches, tidepools, streams and a Douglas-fir covered mountains. This diversity of habitats makes for a diversity of wildlife and excellent viewing opportunities. BEAVER AND RIVER OTTER are commonly sighted in coastal streams, lakes and estuaries. BOBCAT, COYOTE AND BLACK BEAR may occasionally be sighted foraging along forest roads.

OREGON COAST BIRDWATCHING

Birdwatchers who visit the coast in June should not be disappointed. Public access points on the mid coast include rocky intertidal areas, tidal estuaries, sandy beaches and active sand dunes. An abundance of bird species can be observed in these habitats, including BROWN PELICANS, LOONS, BALD EAGLES, OSPREYS, WHITE-TAILED KITES and other raptors. PURPLE MARTINS nest in boxes provided on pilings in many of the coastal estuaries. HORNED and TUFTED PUFFINS, RHINOCEROS AUKLETS, and nest in shallow burrows in sandstone cliffs along the shore. BLACK OYSTERCATCHERS nest in rocks adjacent to intertidal areas. Visit the Oregon Coast Birding Web site for a list of bird trail checklist, www.oregoncoastbirding.com

SEASIDE

Visit ODFW's Jewell Meadows Wildlife Area and keep your eyes open on the way.

ELK have been visible along Hwy 202 and Beneke Road. With the warmer weather, best viewing times are early morning and late evening. Elk calves should start to appear within the next couple of weeks. 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. BAND-TAILED PIGEONS have been seen near the viewing areas along Hwy 202. A variety of SONGBIRDS are visible near the bird feeders at most viewing areas. For directions to the wildlife area, visit /www.dfw.state.or.us/wildlifearea

CANNON BEACH

Those who visit Haystack Rock at Cannon Beach with spotting scopes and binoculars have the opportunity to see TUFTED PUFFINS nesting high on the rock. PELAGIC CORMORANTS can also be seen high on the cliffs. Visit the Friends of Haystack Rock Web site for more information, www.ci.cannon-beach.or.us/~Natural/HRAP/hrap-program.html

TILLAMOOK

Three Arch Rocks and Cape Meares National Wildlife Refuges are located west of Tillamook. They offer wonderful viewing opportunities at this time as they host rather large colonies of nesting seabirds, which are constantly buzzing with activity. Three Arch Rocks has a breeding population of Stellar's sea lions. Cape Meares is home to nesting peregrine falcons, and presents a rare opportunity for viewers to get a close look at the nest site.

NEWPORT

Located three miles north of Newport, Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area, offers some of the best viewing on the coast. One of the largest colonies of nesting COMMON MURRES is located here. Also look for TUFTED PUFFINS and PIGEON GUILLEMOTS. See HARBOR SEALS and CALIFORNIA SEA LIONS, swimming or on off-shore rocks.

At Yaquina Bay, HARLEQUIN DUCKS are often sighted at the south jetty and at Seal Rocks. Numerous species of WATERFOWL and SHOREBIRDS are actively feeding in and around coastal estuaries and lakes.

Plan ahead: SeaFest 2007 will be held at Hatfield Marine Science Center on June 23 from10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Learn about marine research, meet the scientists and learn about our marine environment, from tidal flats to deep ocean volcanoes. For more information, visit hmsc.oregonstate.edu/

FLORENCE

STELLAR SEA LIONS can be viewed at Sea Lion Caves north of Florence. Visit the Web site for admission prices and hours of operation, www.sealioncaves.com/

DABBLING DUCKS can number in the thousands on Siltcoos Lake south of Florence. Protected nesting areas for SNOWY PLOVER are in the dunes at the mouths of Siltcoos and Tahkenitch Creeks.

SOUTHWEST ZONE

Welcome to the Southwest Zone Recreation Report. Find information on Fishing, Hunting and Viewing. See also Marine Zone Viewing.

Anglers still have opportunities to catch spring chinook in select bodies of water. Take advantage of more productive fishing for cutthroat trout, largemouth bass, rainbow trout and other warmwater species before the water temperatures warm up.

FISHING

The mainstem Umpqua, South Umpqua, Smith River tributaries, Umpqua estuary, Diamond Lake, Lemolo Lake and high lakes are providing the best angling opportunities.

HOT SPOTS

Estuaries

Bays

Ponds

Lakes

Rivers

Reservoirs

ESTUARIES

UMPQUA RIVER n UMPQUA ESTUARY

Smallmouth and shad fishing on the Umpqua is very good and will remain good throughout the summer. Smith River tributaries have a lot of cutthroat and provide very good opportunities for fish. Umpqua estuary should be very good when the pink-fin perch move in, sturgeon fishing and chinook fishing should improve as the summer progresses.

Anglers can expect to catch smallmouth bass and shad in the Umpqua. Depending on what area of the river is being fished smallmouth bass can be found in the four to five pound range. At this time the shad are in and fishing is red hot. Umpqua Estuary anglers can expect to catch pink-fin perch as they move in to spawn, they also might catch the occasional sturgeon and in July catch feeder chinook,

Current fishing conditions are good in all locations and the Umpqua will continue to improve as water flows drop. For shad, on the Umpqua, small micro crappie jigs on light line is the best, the micro jigs will also work for smallmouth although the best lure will be a crawfish plug pulled through the shallows.

BAYS

COOS BAY

Coos Bay is a large estuary with a variety of marine fish available to the angler. Common fish that might be caught include: black rockfish, kelp greenling, surf perch, and lingcod. Angling is usually best on the incoming tide through high tide. Anglers use jigs or bait to catch fish in Coos Bay. Jigs come in a variety of colors and shapes but usually have a curly tail that flutters in the water as it is retrieved. The Jig head is made of lead, 0.5-1.5 ounces is usually adequate inside the bay. The jig should be retrieved such that it flutters along the bottom. Casting bait can also be productive with shrimp or herring popular choices. Bank anglers usually fish from one of the jetties but should be cautious walking on the rocks and stay out of the splash zone from the waves. Boat anglers also fish along the jetties or other rocky areas. Boat anglers should also consider fishing higher up the bay around the railroad or Hwy 101 bridge. Depth finders can help locate underwater structure. Conditions can change fast so all anglers need to keep an eye on the waves and the wind and be ready to head back to the ramp if conditions are not safe.

PONDS

DENMAN WILDLIFE AREA PONDS

The 1,858 acre Kenneth Denman Wildlife Management Area, situated conveniently near Medford, Central Point and White City in the heart of the Rogue Valley, offers excellent fishing for warmwater species in several permanent ponds around the area. Fish species found in the various ponds include largemouth bass, panfish including bluegill, black crappie and green sunfish, brown bullhead and carp.

Whetstone Pond adjacent to the wildlife area office is the largest pond on the Denman Wildlife Area. A small earthen berm on the west side of the pond creates the small impoundment on Whetstone Creek. Anglers at Whetstone target largemouth bass, bluegill, black crappie, and brown bullhead. Good bank fishing is available around much of the pond. Boats with electric motors are permitted. A map showing the location of all ponds on the Denman Wildlife Area is available at the office.

All lake-fishing techniques can be effective. A simple technique is to fish a size 10, 12 or 14 hook baited with worms below a bobber. Casting small lures and jigs is also effective. Largemouth bass will strike surface or shallow running lures fished around cover as the water warms in the spring.

Whetstone Pond offers an unimproved boat ramp, a wildlife viewing kiosk, wheelchair-accessible port-o-potty, picnic tables, and an access trail along the south bank.

LIBBY POND

A Free Fishing event will be held June 9 at Libby Pond from 8 a.m. to noon. A total of 2,200 trout will be stocked for the event. Volunteers will help kids learn how to fish. Libby Pond is located just outside of Gold Beach on the Rogue River approximately eight miles up the North Bank Road. Libby Pond is located approximately 8 miles up the north bank of Rogue River Road. Bank access is excellent. Trout are stocked several times in the spring. Trout fishing winds down in June as water temperatures heat up. Power bait fished just off the bottom is the presentation of choice with most anglers.

LAKES

FISH LAKE

Fish Lake offers good fishing for stocked rainbow trout and brook trout. Bait anglers will catch fish using worms and floating bait. Boat anglers can have success trolling lures such as flatfish on light gear. Fly anglers can have success casting or trolling.

Algae blooms can occur during summer, aided by the presence of illegally introduced tui chub at Fish Lake. Anglers should be ready for reduced visibility at times, and watch for health warnings posted at the lake.

Both water conditions and fishing success have been good at Fish Lake recently. The lake is scheduled to be stocked the week of May 28 and June 25.

DIAMOND LAKE

Diamond Lake and Lemolo Lake have both been very good with limits of fish being caught fairly regularly. The high lakes will be stocked by the end of the month and between the new fish and the holdovers, fishing will be very good until water temperatures get too high. Anglers at Diamond Lake can expect to catch legal rainbows ranging in size from 8 inches to 7 lbs. Lemolo Lake provides opportunities for brown trout, kokanee, rainbow, brown trout fishing has been good and the High Lakes have brook trout and rainbow. At the time of this report the best fishing at Diamond Lake is on the west side of the lake. Anglers at Diamond Lake are having success either anchored up using power bait or trolling with wedding ring spinners.

At this time ODFW is conducting a creel census at Diamond Lake and the creel is showing a catch rate of 1.7 fish per angler.

TENMILE LAKES

Largemouth bass fishing has been good at Tenmile Lakes. Anglers should target areas around structure such as logs, docks, and vegetation. Tenmile Lakes has a number of arms and coves that boat anglers can explore. Morning fishing is best as the wind may come up in the afternoon but evening fishing can also be fun. Plastic worms, spinnerbaits and lures that imitate small fish can be successful. A public boat ramp is located at Tenmile Lake County Park. This park also has a wheelchair accessible floating dock for bank anglers and is one of the few public areas to bank fish on this lake. Anglers should be aware that all bass over 15 inches in length must be released. Other fish available in Tenmile Lakes include bluegill, crappie, bullhead, yellow perch, and trout. Using a nightcrawler is another option that may catch any of the fish listed above. Fishing at Tenmile should be good through the summer and into fall.

EMPIRE LAKES

Empire Lakes are stocked with legal-size rainbow trout and also provide good opportunities to catch largemouth bass. Each lake has an undeveloped boat ramp, but boats are limited to electric motors only. Rowboats and small pontoon boats work great. The lakes are surrounded by trees that provide a good windbreak. Bank anglers will find trails going around and between the lakes with lots of shore to cast from. Take a walk and get away from the areas by the parking lots that are fished heavily. Trout fishing is generally the best when fishing with bait such as worms, eggs, and powerbait off the bottom using a sliding sinker. Bass anglers can fish crankbaits, plastic worms, or spinnerbaits around structure. Empire Lakes are also a good spot for fly-fishers casting out of pontoon boats. Water temperatures will warm in the summer and trout will become difficult to find but bass fishing should be good into the fall.

GARRISON LAKE

Garrison Lake is 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, and Arizona Street. Fishing conditions are excellent, but weed growth will limit bank angling. Good numbers of trophy trout and cutthroat are still available.

LAIRD LAKE

Laird Lake is located approximately 15 miles up Elk River Road. 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 stocked bi-annually with trout. Small spinners or single eggs are the best bait.

LAKE SELMAC

Lake Selmac offers early season fishing on stocked rainbow trout, followed by excellent fishing on warmwater species through the fall. The lake is heavily stocked with over 20,000 legal-size rainbow trout from February through early June, which are usually available into July. Selmac produces large-sized largemouth bass, and is managed for trophy bass through a one bass per day limit. Bluegill, black crappie and brown bullhead provide additional opportunity for anglers of all ages and skill levels.

Fishing has been good for both trout and warmwater species, but water temperatures are warming quickly this year, and success for trout will decrease with the warmer temperatures. Selmac is scheduled to be stocked for the last time this year the week of June 4, prior to a Free Fishing Weekend activity planned for Saturday, June 9 by the Middle Rogue Steelheaders Trout Unlimited Chapter.

The largest standing waterbody in Josephine County, Lake Selmac is a reservoir created specifically for recreation. A large county park is located at the west end of the lake at the junction of Reeves Creek Road and South Shore Drive. Other campgrounds are available around the lake as well. Good bank fishing is available at the park, including dikes built to provide access by projecting out into the lake. A private resort offers additional amenities and boat rentals.

Bullheads are especially plentiful in the shallow coves on the south side of this 160-acre lake. Fish for trout near the dam as the water warms. Look for largemouth bass around the stumps and overhanging brush. Black crappie and bluegill can be fished from the pier and from several dikes located around the lake.

All lake-fishing techniques can be effective. Trout anglers can catch fish on floating bait or worms fished with a weight about two feet above the hook. Casting and retrieving lures or flies can also be successful, along with trolling lures and flies from a boat. For warmwater species like bass and panfish, a simple technique is to fish a size 10, 12 or 14 hook baited with worms below a bobber. Casting small lures and jigs is also effective. Largemouth bass will strike surface or shallow running lures fished around cover as the water warms in the spring. During the hot part of summer, largemouth bass seek deeper, cooler water during the day, where they may be taken on lead head jigs, plastic worms, and deep running plugs.

RIVERS

CHETCO RIVER

Chetco River is located in Brookings. Access is excellent for bank and boat anglers. Cutthroat fishing is excellent, and should remain excellent all summer. Spinners or flies tend to work the best.

ROGUE RIVER

On the section of the Rogue River near Gold Beach bank and boat access is excellent. June is a slow month on the Rogue. Anglers can expect few spring chinook as the run is almost over, and few summer steelhead as the run is just beginning. This time of year anglers are using anchovy with a spinner blade.

The Rogue River above Lost Creek provides an important summer trout fishery for the Rogue Valley. Rainbow trout are stocked throughout the summer between Memorial Day and Labor Day along the North Fork Rogue River, as it parallels Hwy 62 and Hwy 230.

Most major campgrounds and access points between Prospect and Minnehaha Creek are stocked, including River Bridge Campground, Woodruff Bridge Campground, Woodruff Creek pumper site, Natural Bridge Campground, Union Creek Campground, Farewell Bend Campground, Mt. Stella Bridge Crater Creek, Hamaker Campground, Minnehaha Creek, and Foster Creek. Mill Creek is stocked at the bridge at Prospect and at Mill Creek Campground. Brook trout and a few cutthroat and brown trout are also available. Trout are not stocked the south and middle forks of the Rogue River, but brook trout and naturally produced rainbow trout are available.

Streamflow in this section of the watershed is cold and swift throughout the summer as creeks cascade down from the mountains. Bait anglers will have success fishing eggs or worms in pools. Small spinners can be effective. Fly anglers may want to fish small emergers.

COOS, MILLICOMA AND COQUILLE RIVERS

Shad are available on the lower South Coos, Millicoma, and Coquille Rivers. Anglers can troll or cast shad darts with fishing best on sunny afternoons. Myrtle Tree boat ramp on the South Coos, Doris Place on the Millicoma, and Sturdivant Park on the Coquille are good areas to launch a boat and catch Shad. Bank anglers will have casting room around Myrtle Tree and Sturdivant Park. Fishing should be good through June.

WEST FORK MILLICOMA RIVER

Cutthroat trout opened May 26 and should be good through June. This is a nice fishery for people wanting to get out in the woods. Anglers can drive up the West Fork Millicoma from Allegany and access the stream anywhere past the entrance to the Elliott State Forest up to an isolated piece of private property that is posted. The upper river can be accessed by driving up Marlow Creek or going through Lakeside. An Elliott State Forest map is available at the Oregon Department of Forestry office and is recommended for those not familiar with the road system. The West Fork Millicoma is open to artificial flies and lures only. Mornings will be best before the sun gets on the water. This is a good chance to explore new areas and catch really nice looking fish. The bag limit is 2 trout with an 8 inch minimum length. Fly fishing is a fun way to catch these fish. Anglers can also cast small spinners and do well while there is still sufficient water in the streams.

RESERVOIRS

LOST CREEK RESERVOIR

Lost Creek Reservoir offers fishing on stocked rainbow trout, smallmouth and largemouth bass, panfish and brown bullheads. Boat anglers fishing for trout often troll wedding rings and worms or other flasher and worm combinations. Anglers trolling lures deep can catch larger trout to 16 inches. Green and rainbow floating bait will work for bait anglers. Bass anglers casting rubber worms along the northern shoreline can have good success on smallmouth to 1.5 pounds.

Fishing for trout and smallmouth bass has been good. Trout are well-distributed around the reservoir, and both bank and boat anglers continue to have fair to good success. The reservoir is scheduled to be stocked for the final time this summer the week of June 4, prior to a Free Fishing Weekend activity planned for Saturday, June 9 by officials at Stewart State Park.

HOWARD PRAIRIE AND HYATT RESERVIORS

Both Howard Prairie and Hyatt Reservoirs are managed to provide trout fisheries near the urban centers of the Rogue Valley and Klamath Falls. Good numbers of fingerling rainbow trout are released each year, entering the fishery the following spring as legal-sized trout. Hyatt Reservoir also offers fishing on largemouth bass, although in recent years big numbers of smaller largemouth have dominated fishing at Hyatt during the summer. At Howard Prairie, largemouth bass, brown bullhead, and pumpkinseed contribute to the fishery in summer. A more recent illegal introduction of smallmouth bass has created even bigger changes in the fishery. Smallmouth can be caught throughout the summer and fall.

Anglers at Howard Prairie are catching some nice rainbow trout in the 14 to 19-inch range, as well as the recently planted legal-sized rainbow trout. Fishing for largemouth and smallmouth bass is good.

Anglers at Hyatt 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.

Both reservoirs offer good bank access for anglers at the campgrounds. At Howard Prairie, a universal access fishing platform built on a jetty near the resort by the Disabilities Recreation Project offers a unique access site. Howard Prairie and Hyatt are irrigation reservoirs, and water levels can vary significantly between years and will drop throughout the summer.

All lake-fishing techniques can be effective. Floating bait is popular for trout at both reservoirs, and can be very effective for early season bank anglers. Trolling flies and lures is effective technique as well for all sizes of trout. Bass will strike surface or shallow running lures fished around cover as the water warms in the spring. Lead head jigs, plastic worms, and deep running plugs are also effective for bass.

HUNTING

Most game bird and big game seasons are closed. An exception is the extended COUGAR hunting season, designed to address high levels of damage complaints and damage-related cougar mortality, which is open in portions of Douglas, Jackson and Josephine counties and along the south coast. Visit http://www.dfw.state.or.us/resources/hunting/big_game/cougar/ for more information, including the latest report on cougar mortalities and any quotas reached.

VIEWING

The Southwest Zone encompasses parts of several of Oregon's eight ecoregions: Klamath Mountains, Coast Range, Marine and West Cascades. As such, it provides a variety of habitats and a variety of wildlife. Watch out for newborn wildlife at this time of year, and keep clear. Mother is likely nearby.

GOLD BEACH

The best tidepool viewing areas include Agate Beach and Rocky Point north of town, and Myers Creek, and Lone Ranch Wayside to the south. For low tides, check the paper or pick up a free guide at the Gold Beach Visitor Center. For more information,

HTTP://WWW.GOLDBEACH.ORG/HTML/THINGSTODO/BEACHCOMBING.CFM

NORTH UMPQUA RIVER

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

ROSEBURG AREA

Terry Farrell, ODFW Wildlife Biologist, has good news: the Vaux swifts have returned to the chimneys at the Umpqua Valley Art Center in Roseburg. Vaux's Swifts typically nested in old growth forests in hollow tree snags. Because of dwindling stands, Vaux's swifts have begun substituting chimneys as nesting areas. Adults access the nest by flying in and out of the top of the chimney. For more information on the species, visit the Audubon Society Web site, http://www.audubonportland.org/livingwithwildlife/brochures/VauxsSwifts

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, the largest swallow in North America, have returned from their wintering areas in South America and can be seen daily around the reservoir. Listed as sensitive in Oregon, PURPLE MARTINS use natural cavities or nesting boxes. Unlike other swallows they are colonial so you may see a number of pairs using the same snag or nest boxes grouped close together. For more information, visit the Cornell Lab of Ornithology Web site, www.birds.cornell.edu/AllAboutBirds/BirdGuide/Purple_Martin_dtl.html

See the marine viewing report for more information on south coastal viewing.

CENTRAL ZONE

Welcome to the Central Zone Recreation Report. Find information on Fishing, Hunting and Viewing.

Don't pass up the chance to fish the Deschutes River for trout and remember to concentrate on shaded areas of the bank or behind boulders. Several reservoirs provide awesome views of the Cascades as well as opportunities to catch trout, largemouth bass and crappie.

FISHING HOT SPOTS

Deschutes River

Lakes and Reservoirs

Klamath Watershed

LOWER DESCHUTES RIVER

The Lower Deschutes River is world famous for its trout fishing. The river should offer excellent trout fishing opportunities from Warm Springs downstream to the mouth of the river. The salmonfly hatch will begin to wind down in mid June and fly anglers should continue to expect mayfly, stonefly, and caddis hatches throughout the summer. Nymph fishing should remain good throughout the summer.

Non fly anglers can expect good action on small spinners throughout the summer for trout. The Deschutes is a big river and anglers should focus their efforts to near bank areas with overhanging vegetation, behind boulders, or other resting or feeding areas near the bank. Anglers are reminded that bait angling is not allowed on the Lower Deschutes. Many special regulations are in place on the Lower Deschutes River, anglers should consult the 2007 Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations before fishing.

LAKES AND RESERVOIRS

PINE HOLLOW RESERVOIR

This irrigation reservoir located near Wamic, should offer excellent fishing for hatchery trout, and a variety of warm water fish. Angers generally find best success trolling for trout, although still fishing and bank angling can be quite productive techniques. Recent survey information from ODFW indicates good numbers of largemouth bass and bluegill should also be available to anglers. Two public boat ramps are located on the lake providing boat access. Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife has an easement from the surface of the lake up the bank 10 feet to allow for public access around the lake.

KINGSLEY RESERVOIR

This irrigation reservoir located southwest of Hood River, should offer excellent fishing opportunities for hatchery trout. In addition to receiving stocked hatchery trout, this reservoir occasionally receives excess adult steelhead from ODFW's Hood River steelhead trapping program. Anglers typically fish from both boats and the bank, and find good success trolling and casting spinners or still fishing with bait. A boat ramp and camping is available at the reservoir.

LOST LAKE

This picturesque lake offers breathtaking views of Mt. Hood and excellent fishing opportunities. The lake is annually stocked with hatchery rainbow trout, but a naturally producing population of brown trout provides additional angling opportunities. The lake is quite deep, so anglers should focus their efforts on shallow areas. A variety of methods will generally produce good catches, but trolling flies, lures, or small plugs, along with bait fishing are the most popular methods. Fly anglers will also want to watch for evening mayfly hatches. Anglers are reminded that boat motors are not allowed on the lake. A large Forest Service campground is located at the lake, along with a resort which offers boat rentals, cabins, and other supplies.

CLEAR LAKE

This irrigation reservoir located east of Government Camp, should offer excellent trout fishing opportunities. The lake is annually stocked with rainbow trout, with naturally producing brook trout often supplementing the rainbow catch. This reservoir generally offers the best fishing early in the summer, before the reservoir is drawn down for irrigation. A boat ramp and a Forest Service campground are located near the east shore of the lake. Trolling and bait fishing are generally good techniques, but fly anglers often find good success in both early morning and late evenings.

FREE FISHING EVENTS

Lake of the Woods: A total of 700 trophy and 1800 legal rainbow trout will be stocked just before Free Fishing Weekend event on June 9 and 10. Lake of the Woods Resort will be sponsoring the event.

Fort Klamath ODFW Fish Hatchery: A total of 1000 trophy rainbow trout up to 3 pounds will be available for kids 12 and under on June 9th. Kids will be limited to one fish. A total of 6 volunteers will be available to assist with landing the fish, unhooking the fish, rigging the fishing rod, casting and weighing the catch. ODFW is sponsoring the event.

Fourmile Gravel Quarry: A total of 2000 rainbow trout will be stocked at the Fourmile Gravel Quarry off Hwy 140 at the Cold Spring Trailhead turnoff.

Free Fishing Events can be found at http://www.dfw.state.or.us/freefishing/

KLAMATH WATERSHED

The five waterbodies in this list provide the best angling opportunities for the month of June in Klamath County for a variety of different angling groups including warmwater angler, trout angler, trophy angler, family outings, new anglers, boat anglers and aesthetic value anglers.

GERBER RESERVIOR

Crappie angling is very good this month. The Barnes Valley and Ben Hall arms of Gerber Reservoir are the most productive for crappie. Most crappie are caught using crappie jigs under a bobber in the shallows especially near vegetation. Brown bullhead and yellow perch are abundant and can be caught all around the lake including the campground areas. Largemouth bass are also available but difficult to catch and find due to the large size of the reservoir. Gerber Reservoir is at almost full pool this year so launching a boat will not be troublesome. Improved campgrounds with a concrete boat ramp are available.

KLAMATH RIVER

Angling peaks in May and June. For a successful outing on the Klamath River, anglers need to be aware of river flows on the river. Currently, river flows below Keno Dam are optimum for a successful angling trip. Flows in the Klamath River below the J.C. Boyle Powerhouse fluctuate widely on a daily basis. Angling is slow when flows are high during the fluctuation. Anglers can call 1-800-547-1501 for river flow information or visit the following websites: 1) for a ten day forecast of stream flows below the J.C.Boyle Powerhouse visit: http://www.pacificorp.com/hydro_hiws/JCBoyleEstFlow.html

and 2) for river flows below Keno dam and below the J.C. Boyle Powerhouse visit: http://waterdata.usgs.gov/or/nwis/current?typeflow.

Keno Dam downstream to J.C. Boyle Dam closes June 15 and angling will be good until closing. Opportunities for native redband trout should be good. Redband trout average 16 inches in this stretch with fish over 20 inches common and fish over 30 inches available. The best methods are lures and flies that mimic minnows or sculpin and flies that mimic caddisflies, mayflies and damselflies. Wading in this section is very challenging so wading belts, wading staffs, wading boots with studs and CO2 life jackets are recommended.

J.C. Boyle Dam to the Powerhouse is open year-round. Angling should be good for small native redband trout from 8-12". This stretch typically has stable flows and is mostly spring fed which keeps water temperatures warmer in the winter and colder in the summer. Angling in this stretch is best in May-June during the golden stonefly and salmonfly hatch. The best methods on this stretch are dry flies and small black rooster tail spinners.

J.C Boyle Powerhouse to Oregon/California State Line. Angling should be fair for redband up to a maximum of 16". This stretch fishes best during low flows when no water is going through the powerhouse. Angling in this stretch is best in May-June during the golden stonefly and salmonfly hatch. The best angling methods on this stretch are large brown rooster tails or wooly buggers and assorted nymphs on the wet fly swing.

LAKE OF THE WOODS

The lake is annually stocked with fingerling rainbow, brown trout and kokanee salmon. Legal and trophy sized rainbow trout that average 3 pounds are stocked throughout the spring and summer. Additional trout will be stocked for the youth angling and free fishing events on June 9 and June 16. Brown trout are caught during late evening or early morning using large rapalas or other minnow imitations. There are good angling opportunities for largemouth bass, yellow perch and bullhead catfish. Yellow perch dominate the catch. A small hook with a piece of worm under a bobber will catch numerous yellow perch. This is a great place to introduce kids to fishing. Night fishing can also be enjoyable and is legal. A worm fished on the bottom of the lake will catch brown bullhead.

UPPER KLAMATH AND AGENCY LAKE

Angling will be good this month as redband trout become concentrated. Redband trout begin to move into the spring areas around Pelican Bay, mouth of Wood River, Williamson River and Odessa Creek. These trophy redband trout are caught using a variety of gears but flyfishing and trolling lures is the most popular. Yellow perch are also available near Rocky Point resort. Small bait under a bobber works best for catching yellow perch. An improved boat ramp occurs at Rocky Point. Camping can occur at Rocky Point Resort or Odessa Creek. Excellent scenery and canoe trails occur in the Rocky Point area as well as excellent wildlife viewing.

WILLOW VALLEY RESERVOIR

Angling is good for bass and crappie. A total of 63 largemouth bass ranging from 2-6 pounds from Davis Lake were transplanted in late May. Look for crappie and bass around the many wood and Berkley habitat structures in the reservoir. Berkley habitat structures are comprised of used and recycled monofilament fishing line and spools to create habitat complexity in lakes and reservoirs, especially when installed under piers and fishing docks. An additional 50 Berkley habitat structures will be placed in the reservoir on June 2. The reservoir will be sampled on May 30 and you can contact the Klamath Falls ODFW office for results of this sampling. Some wood structures are visible but a good fish finder will also assist with finding the structures. Anglers can also catch largemouth bass near the boat ramp and all along the dam. Yellow perch are very abundant but are typically small (6 inches). Lahontan cutthroat are available but rare in the catch. The most effective way to fish Willow Valley is from a boat. Larger boats are more difficult to launch at the gravel boat ramp.

HUNTING

All game bird and big game seasons are closed but hunters can still hunt for unprotected mammals (coyotes, ground squirrels, rabbits). GROUND SQUIRREL hunting will get more challenging as summer approaches because the squirrels have more cover and spend most of their time underground when the weather is hot.

VIEWING

BEND AREA

Plan ahead: The Oregon Field Ornithologists will hold their annual summer meeting and birding field trips in Bend at Central Oregon Community College the weekend of June 22-24. More information is available at the Oregon Field Ornithologists Web site, http://www.oregonbirds.org/07annualMeeting.html

CAMP SHERMAN AREA

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. For more information, visit the Audubon Society Web site, http://www.audubonportland.org/science/wh_woodpecker/document_view

For information on the Metolius River, visit www.nature.org/wherewework/northamerica/states/oregon/preserves/art6806.html

MADRAS AREA

The Rimrock Springs Wildlife Management Area on the Crooked River National Grasslands 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, SMALL MAMMALS, and OCCASIONALLY DEER, PRONGHORN and COYOTES.

Visit the Rimrock Springs Wildlife Management Area for more information and directions, www.fs.fed.us/r6/centraloregon/wildlife/sites/29-rimrocksprings.shtml

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. Visit ODFW's Web site for more information, www.dfw.state.or.us/wildlifearea/prineville.htm

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. See directions, http://www.dfw.state.or.us/wildlifearea/lowerdeschutes.htm

SOUTHEAST ZONE

Welcome to the Southeast Zone Recreation Report. Find information on Fishing, Hunting and Viewing.

Many of the reservoirs in this part of the state offer good opportunities to catch rainbow trout but watch out for aquatic vegetation if temperatures heat up. The Snake River offers a chance to catch channel catfish and smallmouth bass.

FISHING HOT SPOTS

Rivers

Lakes

Reservoirs

BLITZEN RIVER

Flows are somewhat high and fluctuate from day to day. Angling for redband trout should be fair to good around the Page Springs area. Fly anglers should have the best success nymph fishing.

OWYHEE RIVER DOWNSTREAM OF OWYHEE DAM

From Ontario, take State Hwy 201 south to Owyhee junction. Turn right and follow sign to Owyhee Dam. The trout populations are found in the river from the dam downstream 12 miles to Snively Hot Springs.

There are two populations of trout in this section of the river, stocked rainbow trout and natural brown trout.

The river is at normal summer flows, ~250 cfs. The current fishing conditions are good to excellent.

Angling conditions are expected to remain similar for the rest of the summer.

The greatest density of trout is found between the tunnel and the dam. Trout, mostly brown trout, are found downstream of the tunnel to the hot springs.

During the summer period and due to the large weed beds and large mats of filamentous algae, the most effective means of catching trout is with flies.

SNAKE RIVER

This section of the Snake River is located from Brownlee Reservoir upstream to the Idaho border just upstream of Homedale, Idaho. It is paralleled on the Oregon side by State Hwy 201. There are five bank and boat access points on the Oregon side of the river; Oasis, Porter Flat, Ontario State Park, Nyssa Boat Ramp, Adrian boat Ramp. Several access points are located on the Idaho side of the river.

This section of the Snake River supports populations of channel catfish and smallmouth bass.

The river is dropping and clearing. Current angling conditions for channel catfish are good through out the river segment. Smallmouth bass angling is fair to good.

The current conditions should continue into July when the river should begin to rise again.

The most popular area is located from Brownlee Reservoir upstream to the Oasis. This area has good boat and bank access. Upstream of the Oasis a boat is necessary due to the limited amount of bank access.

The most productive means of catching channel catfish is still fishing with bait.

DELINTMENT LAKE

Fair to good angling for 8-14 inch rainbow trout. The lake has good shoreline access near the dam and by the campground. An ADA accessible fishing platform is also available. No reports on what gear has been most effective. If the weather turns hot for an extended period of time, angling may slow down and aquatic vegetation may make bank angling challenging in some places.

YELLOWJACKET LAKE

Angling for 10 to 14 inch rainbow trout is fair and bank access is good around the lake. If the weather turns hot for an extended period of time, angling may slow down and aquatic vegetation may make bank angling challenging in some places.

BALM CREEK RESERVOIR

Trout angling has decreased from a few weeks ago but is still fair. For the best results plan to fish early in the day and fish are averaging 10-14 inches in size. The reservoir water levels are dropping.

CHICKAHOMINY RESERVOIR

Angling is fair to good for 12 to 18 inch rainbow trout, with a few larger fish reported. Fly anglers and trollers have had the best success. The reservoir has good shore access, and bank anglers have done well. If the weather turns hot for an extended period of time, angling may slow down and aquatic vegetation may make bank angling challenging in some places.

KRUMBO RESERVOIR

Fair to good angling for 12 to 18 inch rainbow trout. Anglers fishing from boats or float tubes have had the most success, but there is also good bank access between the dam and the boat ramp, as well as just upstream from the boat ramp. If the weather turns hot for an extended period of time, angling may slow down and aquatic vegetation may make bank angling challenging in some places.

MALHEUR RESERVOIR

Water level is dropping, but the ramp is still usable. Trout angling is good with trout being caught in the 10 to 14 inch range.

From Ontario, take U.S. Hwy 20-26 west to Vale and turn north onto U.S. Hwy 26. Twenty-five miles north of Vale turn right on to Brogan Canyon Road. Travel north and west on Brogan Canyon Road to Malheur Reservoir.

The reservoir is about 10 to 15 feet below full pool and about 2-3 feet below 2007 maximum pool.

Popular bank fishing sites include the school bus, the boat ramp and the neck near the dam.

All methods of angling-bait, lures, and flies-work well on this water body.

MOON RESERVOIR

Angling is fair to good for 10 to 14 inch bass and angling is fair rainbow trout. Anglers fishing from boats or float tubes have had the most success. Most bass have been caught by concentrating near rocky structure.

PHILLIPS RESERVOIR

The reservoir was restocked with an additional 3000 legal trout during the last week of May. Fishing has been fair for trout and perch with trout averaging about 12 inches and p 9 to11 inches. Water level is at 56 percent.

HUNTING

All game bird and big game seasons are closed but hunters can still hunt for unprotected mammals (coyotes, ground squirrels, rabbits). GROUND SQUIRREL hunting will get more challenging as summer approaches because the squirrels have more cover and spend most of their time underground when the weather is hot.

VIEWING

BURNS AREA

Currently thousands of migrating snow, ROSS'S, WHITE-FRONTED and CANADA GEESE as well as DUCKS, LESSER SANDHILL CRANES and TUNDRA SWANS are using the Harney Basin near the town of Burns. Some other species of note in the basin are BALD EAGLES, GOLDEN EAGLES, AMERICAN WHITE PELICANS, GREATER SANDHILL CRANES, WHITE-FACED IBIS and LONG-BILLED CURLEWS.

MALHEUR NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

A variety of migratory birds have returned to their summer nesting areas on the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge south of Burns. Several species of WARBLERS, SPARROWS, WRENS, SHOREBIRDS, WATERFOWL and RAPTORS can be observed in this area.

The Refuge is located in the southeastern corner of Oregon. The Refuge headquarters can be accessed by traveling approximately 25 miles south of Burns on Hwy 205 to Sodhouse Lane. Turn east on Sodhouse Lane and continue about six miles to the headquarters. For more information, visit www.fws.gov/malheur/

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 be 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.

WESTERN and CLARK'S GREBES can be observed in their courtship displays on Upper Klamath and Agency Lakes. For information on Upper Klamath Lake, visit www.volcaniclegacybyway.org/KFallsregion.html. For the location of Agency Lake and more information, visit www.southernoregon.com/agencylake/index.html

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

Lanny Fujishin, Klamath Wildlife Area Manager, reports there is a lot to see in the Area in June. Look for 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 AREA

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 a map of the area, visit www.fws.gov/klamathbasinrefuges/areamap.html

SUMMER LAKE WILDLIFE AREA

For most Oregonians, Summer Lake Wildlife Area in Summer Lake is going to be a drive-but it one that is well worth the trip. Birdwatchers will not be disappointed this month. Northward migrants and local breeding species continue return to and pass through the Wildlife Area. Breeding season is in full swing for nearly all species now. Check the list at ODFW Headquarters for new arrivals and unusual birds. Directions to the Wildlife Area, http://www.dfw.state.or.us/wildlifearea/summerlake.htm

WHAT'S NEW?

The last of the spring migrants occurred over the past week with WESTERN WOOD PEWEE and COMMON NIGHTHAWK arriving. Breeding species are increasing in number and nesting activities are in full swing for all species. Other migrants continue to pass through the Area enroute to nesting locales elsewhere. HUMMINGBIRDS are beginning to appear at ODFW headquarters complex feedersnBLACK-CHINNED and CALLIOPES were observed last week. Visit the What Bird Web site to see a photo of the very small CALLIPOE HUMMINBIRD 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. A BAND-TAILED PIGEON, unusual for the Area, was observed over the past week. See the Audubon Web site for a photo and description of a band-tailed pigeon, http://www.audubon2.org/webapp/watchlist/viewSpecies.jsp?id22v

BIRDWATCHING

As 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. Ducks are in their brilliant nuptial plumage now and nesting for all species is well underway. In the early morning you can see many duck pairs scattered along roads and in fields as females scout for nesting sites. Territorial encounters and chasing flights are common now. Drakes of early nesting species are beginning to form bachelor groups as they prepare to enter the molt. Duck broods are being observed, especially during early morning and evening hours, close to the protective cover of emergent vegetation.

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 beginning to molt and will be flightless until new feathers are grown. 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 nesting and brood rearing is underway and the several observations of colts (crane chicks) have occurred recently. They are also very secretive and hard to observe.

SHOREBIRDS are well into breeding season activities. Courtship and nesting (there are nine species regularly on the Wildlife Area) is occurring for all species now and will be intensifying. KILLDEER and SNOWY PLOVER CHICKS were observed over the past week. 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 and are taking advantage of forage fish found in canals and ponds. SNOWY EGRETS have been observed recently. Early in the morning it is not uncommon to hear the "uumpa-uump" call of AMERICAN BITTERNS as they are very active in courtship. SORA AND VIRGINIA RAILS are becoming very vocal as well and nesting is underway.

Resident RAPTORS remain scattered throughout the Wildlife Area as well as on private lands along Hwy 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. Visit the Oregon Zoo Web site for a photo and a description of peregrine falcons,

http://www.oregonzoo.org/Cards/BirdsOfPrey/peregrinefalcon.htm

GREAT-HORNED OWLS remain very vocal during the night, and rearing of chicks is well underway in several locations.

RING-NECKED PHEASANTS are beginning to hatch broods and CALIFORNIA QUAIL have paired-up and are dispersed across upland nesting sites. The first quail broods of the season are expected to hatch in the next couple of weeks.

PASSERINE SPECIES remain fairly common around the Headquarters Complex, Summer Lake Rest Area, homestead sites and shelter break plantings at the north end of the Area where they are attracted to tree and shrub cover.

INVERTEBRATE activity is increasing with the warming temperatures and clouds of midges and others species are providing considerable food to insectivorous birds across the Area. Biting insects have emerged and are increasing in number.

FACILITIES, ROADS

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. Habitat enhancement and restoration activities are underway in Bullgate Refuge, Link Marsh and East Link Units. These areas were controlled burning in spring and are being drawdown to mimic drought conditions that historically restored productivity to semi-permanent wetlands. Viewers will find these traditionally flooded areas dry, but the nearby Bypass Unit is full and receiving good waterbird use. 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 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 are leafing out, most 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 Marty St. Louise at martin.j.stlouis@state.or.us

NORTHEAST ZONE

Welcome to the Northeast Zone Recreation Report. Find information on Fishing, Hunting and Viewing.

The John Day River has numerous access points to launch pontoon boats and provides great opportunities to catch smallmouth bass. Thief Valley Reservoir provides good fishing conditions for stocked trout and an emergency bag limit has been raised to 15 per day with no possession limit until September 30.

FISHING HOT SPOTS

Rivers

Lakes

Reservoirs

JOHN DAY RIVER

The John Day River between Kimberly and Service Creek is easily accessible from Hwy 19 and provides excellent opportunities to catch smallmouth bass from late April through early fall. The most successful anglers use small pontoon boats that can be launched at several sites between Kimberly and Service Creek (Kimberly, Pine Tree, Shady Grove Wayside, ODOT Gravel Pit, Spray, and Muleshoe Campground). Bank angling is available at each launch site, plus from BLM lands scattered along the river and Hwy. Early in the season the best tactics to use are soft rubber worms fished very slowly near the bottom of the river. As the water warms later in the season, soft rubber worms and weighted flies continue to be successful, but the bass are more aggressive and will take surface lures and popper flies.

John Day River below Service Creek has limited bank access because of the lack of roads, but provides a high quality experience for those who know how to operate whitewater craft. The most popular trip is between Service Creek and Clarno (48 miles), which can be floated and fished intensively over a 4-5 day period. Another popular section is from Clarno to Cottonwood Bridge (69 miles) which is a good five day trip. Smallmouth bass and channel catfish are plentiful and aggressive from late-May through October, although low streamflows can limit boating access after mid- to late-June. Best angling methods are the same as between Kimberly and Service Creek.

POWDER RIVER

Powder River below Mason Dam is stocked with legal rainbow trout several times throughout the spring and expect good fishing just below the Mason Dam.

MAGONE LAKE

The lake located 22 miles northwest of John Day and offers good opportunities to catch brook and rainbow trout that were stocked as fingerlings. A Forest Service campground with potable water and restroom facilities is available for those who want to camp. A handicapped accessible ramp is also available. During summer fishing success slows down as water temperatures heat up. During summer months, anglers have the best success deep trolling a small spoon or wobbling plug.

STRAWBERRY LAKE

This lake is located in the Strawberry Wilderness approximately 11 miles south of Prairie City and requires a hike of just over a mile. During the summer months a float tube is an excellent way to catch 12-14" native rainbow and brook trout with small weighted nymphs or a small

MORGAN LAKE

Morgan Lake is located three miles from La Grande by taking C Street to Morgan Lake Road and follow to the lake at the top of the hill. Stocked trout, smallmouth bass and bullheads can be found in Morgan Lake. Current conditions are good but will eventually decrease as temperatures warm up and fish don't bite. Most people use powerbait, worms, or spinners (chartreuse and yellow are good colors).

Casting and retrieving a black ant about 6' behind a bubble early in the summer also yields good catch rates from the bank.

HWY 203 POND

This small pond is north of Baker City off of Interstate 84 and is stocked with rainbow trout. Fishing will be good until the water warms up in mid summer. It is recommended that you fish early in the mornings with spinners, worms, or powerbait.

BULL PRAIRIE RESERVOIR

Bull Prairie Reservoir is located about 26 miles southwest of Heppner off of Hwy 207 is stocked annually with fingerling brook and rainbow trout. A Forest Service campground offers campsites, potable water and restroom facilities, as well as a boat ramp. Spring anglers have the best success with small spinners, spoons and small weighted nymphs.

THIEF VALLEY RESERVOIR

To find Thief Valley Reservoir travel south of Union on Hwy 235 and go left after the railroad overpass. Follow dirt road to Thief Valley turnoff. Follow this for 4-5 miles. The reservoir provides stocked trout that can grow very large if the reservoir was not drained previous year. Current conditions are good and fish are large, but reservoir is dropping fast and will likely be dry by late July. An emergency bag limit has been raised to 15 per day with no possession limit until September 30. Conditions will possibly be hot and fishing may be off by early July.

BROWNLEE RESERVOIR

Popular spots to fish on the reservoir are Farewell Bend, Huntington, and Richland (Powder River arm). Anglers can fish for smallmouth bass, crappie, bluegill, catfish, perch, and some trout and fishing is usually best in coves and off points. Jigs with crappie nibbles or worms work well for crappie, bluegill, and perch. Use cutbait for catfish and lures for bass. So far this season bass have been larger than previous years. Crappie fishing has picked up from last year and larger sizes are being caught.

UNITY RESERVOIR

This reservoir is located near Unity on Hwy 7 between Baker City and John Day and provides fishing opportunities for trout, smallmouth bass and crappie. Water levels may drop some, but should be boat accessible most of summer. For trout, spinners or ford fenders work well, especially in spring.

MURRAY RESERVIOR

This small reservoir is about 10 miles southeast of Unity on Hwy 26 and is stocked with rainbow trout and provides good fishing all summer. Use powerbait, worms, or spinners (chartreuse and yellow are good colors).

HUNTING

All game bird and big game seasons are closed but hunters can still hunt for unprotected mammals (coyotes, ground squirrels, rabbits). GROUND SQUIRREL hunting will get more challenging as summer approaches because the squirrels have more cover and spend most of their time underground when the weather is hot.

VIEWING

BAKER COUNTY

ROCKY MOUNTAIN BIGHORN SHEEP, MULE DEER and BALD EAGLES can be observed along Snake River Road between Huntington and Richland. Waterfowl viewing opportunities are abundant this time of year at the reservoir and ponds of the county. Listen for RUFFED GROUSE drumming in forested areas. The Oregon ruffed grouse was first noted by Lewis and Clark on September 20, 1805, on the Lolo Trail in Idaho. For more information, http://www.nationalgeographic.com/lewisandclark/record_species_051_12_2.html

ELK can be seen in the early mornings and late evenings feeding in open mountain meadows.

BIGHORN SHEEP can be seen below the Brownlee Dam on the Snake River or on the Snake River Road between Richland and Huntington. See Map. http://www.google.com/maps?qRichland,+OR,+USA&saX&oimap&cttitle

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 along the Burnt River Canyon between Durkee and Hereford or along the Snake River between Brownlee Dam and Upper Hells Canyon Dam.

ENTERPRISE

BOBOLINKS have been heard calling in the early morning. For information on this relatively rare bird and to hear its bubbly call, visit What Bird at http://identify.whatbird.com/obj/566/overview/Bobolink.aspx

LA GRANDE

The Ladd Marsh Wildlife Area is 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 more information, http://www.dfw.state.or.us/wildlifearea/ladd_marsh_wildlife.htm

A bird checklist for the area is provided by "Friends of Ladd Marsh" at their Web site, http://www2.eou.edu/~kantell/friends%20of%20ladd%20marsh/birds.htm

WALLOWA WHITMAN NATIONAL FOREST

Wallowa Whitman National Forest and surrounding Bureau of Land Management lands offer the best viewing opportunity. For a map of the forests and adjacent communities, visit http://www.fs.fed.us/r6/w-w/about/comminfo.shtml

SNAKE RIVER ZONE

Welcome to the Snake River Zone Recreation Report. Find information on Fishing and Viewing.

Be sure to check ODFW's website at http://www.dfw.state.or.us/resources/fishing/ for the latest fishing regulations updates and changes.

FISHING

BROWNLEE RESERVOIR

Crappie fishing has slowed dramaticlaly. Bass fishing has been very good and the fish are large. Perch and bluegill angling is still fair. Use worms, jigs with crappie nibbles or cutbait. 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?kbrownlee

OXBOW RESERVOIR

Crappie fishing is slow. Bass are being caught as well but are catch and release only until July 1.

HELLS CANYON RESERVOIR

Bass and perch fishing is good. Crappie fishing has slowed. Catfish angling is picking up.

SNAKE RIVER (Below Hells Canyon Dam)

Smallmouth bass fishing should be good. The Snake River from Dug Bar boat ramp to deadline below Hell's Canyon Dam is open for spring Chinook angling on Fridays through Mondays until June 16. Bag limit is one adipose fin-clipped Chinook per day. Barbless hook are required. Any changes in these regulations will be announced through a news release to local media.

VIEWING

HELLS CANYON NATIONAL RECREATION AREA

The following information about summer wildlife viewing comes from the Hells Canyon Recreation Area Web site, 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, http://www.idahopower.com/pdfs/riversrec/hcBirdCheckList.pdf

COLUMBIA RIVER ZONE

Welcome to the Columbia River Zone Recreation Report. Find information on Fishing and Viewing.

The Columbia River provides angling opportunities for shad, sturgeon, salmon, bass and walleye with June being the peak month for sturgeon fishing near Astoria.

FISHING HOT SPOTS

* Columbia Gorge

* Astoria

* Columbia Mainstem below I-5

* Columbia Mainstem Shoreline

* John Day & Dalles Pools

COLUMBIA GORGE

Shad offer an excellent opportunity for anglers during the month of June. Boat and bank anglers are having the best success fishing for shad in the Gorge, but other areas of the Columbia are producing as well. Dick knight spoons, shad darts, and curly tail grubs are good lure choices.

ASTORIA

June is the peak month for sturgeon fishing near Astoria. Boat anglers will have the best success out of John Day, Hammond, and Warrenton boat ramps. Bank access is somewhat limited, but Clatsop spit near Fort Stevens offers good access. Best baits are anchovies, sand shrimp, and smelt. In the Gorge below Marker 85 boat anglers are catching a fair number of keepers along with the chance of hooking an oversize. Anglers who hook an oversize should drop off their anchor buoy and attempt to land the fish as quickly as possible.

COLUMBIA RIVER MAINSTEM BELOW I-5

Bank anglers have a good opportunity for salmon and steelhead plunking spin-n-glos from the beaches below I-5 over the next couple weeks. The much anticipated summer Chinook season will open on June 16.

COLUMBIA RIVER MAINSTEM SHORELINE

Bass anglers are doing well fishing from boats along the shore line.

JOHN DAY & DALLES POOLS

Walleye anglers are having the best success fishing from their boats in the John Day and The Dalles pools.

EVENTS

For the latest information on registration stations, how and where to catch Northern Pikeminnow, program updates, angler clinics, or special events please call 1n800n858n9015 or visit the web site www.pikeminnow.org .

VIEWING

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 (Hwy 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 Hwy 730 and the Columbia River. For more information, http://www.dfw.state.or.us/wildlifearea/irrigon_wildlife.htm

MARINE ZONE

Welcome to the Marine Zone Recreation Report. Find information on Fishing and Viewing.

FISHING

Pacific halibut fishing continues to be good along the central Oregon coast with most anglers getting their fish. Of the anglers surveyed from Charleston to Garibaldi, more than 90 percent were successful. Anglers are generally finding the halibut in deeper waters (more than 40 fathoms) during the all-depth halibut fishing days, which are Thursday, Friday and Saturday during the spring fishery, which ends when the 170,242-pound quota is met or July 21, which ever occurs first.

Crabbing is still poor along most of the coast with sport crabbers getting only one or two crab. The exceptions are Garibaldi and Charleston, where the crabbers surveyed reported catches of more that four crab per angler.

Fishing for rockfish is only fair with anglers reporting catches of between two and three rockfish per angler coastwide.

Ling cod fishing is poor with the anglers surveyed reporting catches of about two ling cod for every 10 anglers.

The number of anglers going after chinook salmon is low as is their success ratio: Only about two in 10 anglers were successful at landing a chinook.

A series of morning minus tides June1-7 and June 11-20 will allow opportunity to harvest bay clams and razor clams.

VIEWING

HARBOR SEALS can be commonly seen loafing on sand shoals near the mouths of estuaries on the north coast. Along all north coast estuaries and the lower Columbia River, BALD EAGLES are in the stages of rearing young eaglets. NESTING SEABIRDS (MURRES, AUKLETS and PUFFINS) are nesting this time of year on nearshore rocks such as Three Arch Rocks and Cape Meares National Wildlife Refuge, as well as others along the northern Oregon coast.

Peregrine falcons are often sighted along the coast at this time of year. If you spot one, watch for awhile and you may see the high-speed dive for which the species is known.

For information on these birds of prey, visit the Audubon Society Web site, http://www.audubonportland.org/peregrine_delisting

For not-so-common sightings, TUFTED PUFFINS can be seen flying in and out of their nesting burrows at Cape Meares National Wildlife Refuge and Haystack Rock near Cannon Beach, but folks have to be patient when watching these birds.

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 and other species.

Tide pooling will be good during a series of morning minus tides June1 through 7 and June 11 through 20. Look for anemones, hermit crabs, sea urchins, small fish, jelly fish, sea stars, barnacles and other animals of the intertidal region. For close-up color photos of Oregon's Rocky Shore Species including GIANT GREEN ANEMONES and SEA STARS, visit http://www.oregon.gov/OPRD/NATRES/docs/commonspecies.pdf

Here are some other hot viewing spots.

ASTORIA

CALIFORNIA SEA LIONS are usually seen on the boat docks in the greater East Mooring Basin area in Astoria.

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 Hwy 101 by turning west onto 11th Street in Bandon. For more information, http://www.fws.gov/oregoncoast/oregonislands/index.htm

CANNON BEACH

Haystack Rock is a protected marine garden. View a variety of birds including tufted puffins, gulls, and cormorants. During low tides in the summer volunteers are on hand to answer questions and point our wildlife. Visit the Web cam at www.cannon-beach.net/cbhaystack.html

OCEANSIDE/TILLAMOOK AREA

Three Arch Rocks 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. Visit the Three Arch Rocks National Wildlife Refuge Web site for more information,

http://www.fws.gov/oregoncoast/3archrocks/

A breeding population of STELLAR'S SEA LIONS is almost always visible at Three Arch Rocks.

Cape Meares National Wildlife Refuge is located approximately ten miles west of the town of Tillamook. When approaching Tillamook on US Hwy 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, visit the Refuge's Web site, www.fws.gov/oregoncoast/capemeares/index.htm