The Oregon Recreation Report (fishing, hunting, viewing), updated Wednesday, Dec. 12, by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife.
Join in the Christmas bird count
Across America, Audubon chapters and volunteers will conduct one-day bird counts from Dec. 14 to Jan. 5 in a tradition that dates back 108 years.
In Oregon, you can join a group of birdwatchers or stay home and report on the birds that visit you feeder. The Audubon Christmas Bird Count is the oldest and largest citizen science event in the world-get involved, have some fun and help contribute to our knowledge base.
Every Recreation Zone in this week's reports offers a list of Bird Count events. For a copy of the Portland area Bird Feeder Watcher form, visit http://www.dfw.state.or.us/resources/viewing/FEEDER_WATCH_2007.pdf
Good time to hunt predators
With deer and elk general seasons over and some bird seasons winding down, this is a good time of year to hunt predators. Snow can make it easier to locate and follow tracks. Hunting coyotes and cougars in the vicinity of wintering deer and elk using a predator call can be effective. Bobcats and foxes may also come to a predator call-remember you must have a furbearer licenses and a bobcat record card to take these animals. Remember bear season is closed in eastern Oregon. Many western Oregon bears have also denned up for the winter.
Shellfish closed north of Yaquina Bay
Chinook fishing is winding down but winter steelhead fishing continues to pick up. There are also good spots to fish for trout during the winter; see the zone reports.
If you are heading to the coast, remember that shellfish is closed on beaches, bays, and estuaries from Yaquina Bay north to the Columbia River. The closure is a precautionary measure to minimize exposure to potentially contaminated waters and will remain in effect until additional sampling and testing indicates that water quality has returned to pre-flood-event levels. The closure does not affect shellfish harvesting south of Yaquina Bay on the Oregon coast.
SHELLFISH HARVEST CLOSURE
As a precautionary measure to minimize exposure to potentially contaminated waters, the Oregon Department of Agriculture and Oregon Department of Human Services Public Health Division have imposed an immediate closure of recreational harvest of shellfish from the beaches, bays, and estuaries from Yaquina Bay north to the Columbia River.
The closure will remain in effect until additional sampling and testing indicates that water quality has returned to pre-flood-event levels. The closure does not affect shellfish harvesting south of Yaquina Bay on the Oregon coast.
WILLAMETTE ZONE
Trout fishing has closed in streams (including tidewaters and bays), except as otherwise noted in regulations. Some lakes in the Willamette zone are also closed including Erma Bell Lakes, Estacada Lake, Gold Lake and North Fork Reservoir.
STOCKING SCHEDULE:
The South Willamette Watershed District will stock Junction City Pond with larger brood stock rainbow trout as well as Walter Wirth and Walling Pond with catchable size rainbow trout the week of Dec. 10. Walter Wirth Lake will also receive a few of the larger brood stock rainbow trout.
The North Willamette Watershed stocked West Salish Pond with 75 larger broodstock trout the week of Nov 26. The next scheduled stocking for the North Willamette Watershed will occur the week of Dec. 17.
CLACKAMAS RIVER: steelhead
Summer steelhead angling has slowed down somewhat but there are still some fish available, particularly up near McIver Park. Also, winter steelhead are beginning to arrive in the lower river below Carver. Anglers are reminded that the Clackamas River closed for coho retention after Oct. 31.
ODFW and OSU have released 80 hatchery summer steelhead implanted with radio-tags into the Clackamas River downstream of River Mill Dam as part of a study to monitor adult summer steelhead behavior. The fish in the study can be identified by an antenna trailing from the abdomen, and a blue plastic tag carrying a unique number inserted just below the dorsal fin on the back of the fish. The department reminds anglers it is against the law for anyone to retain a radio-tagged fish in this river, and these fish must be released unharmed. In addition, these fish have been anesthetized for surgery to implant the radio tags and are not fit for human consumption. Anyone who catches one of the tagged summer steelhead is asked to record the number printed on the plastic tag, without removing the tag from the fish, and notify ODFW of the date and location where the fish was caught and released by calling the Clackamas Office any time at (971) 673-6000. Anyone witnessing a tagged fish in the water is also asked to call. All reports of tagged fish will provide important information for the study.
Bank anglers can find access to the river in the Gladstone/Cross Park area, at Carver near the mouth of Clear Creek, along Clackamas River Rd, at Barton Park, at Bonnie Lure Park, at McIver Park near Dog Creek, and from the McIver Park boat ramp on up to River Mill Dam.
Bank anglers need to be aware that with the new fish ladder at Rivermill Dam there has been a change to the angling deadline. This change is particularly noticeable on the McIver Park side of the river where a new fishway entrance was installed. The new angling deadline is clearly visible in bright yellow painted rocks on both the park side and Estacada side. Anglers must adhere to this deadline, making sure to fish and cast downstream of the line. The new deadline is being strictly enforced by law enforcement.
EAGLE CREEK: steelhead, coho
The coho season has nearly come to an end on the creek. Any remaining fish will be very dark. Early winter steelhead are arriving in the Clackamas River, which means that winters will arrive in the creek next if they aren't already there.
The most popular spots to try include the Bonnie Lure area, the water above and below the lower fish ladder, Eagle Fern Park, and up near the hatchery. Much of the creek meanders through private property so pay attention to your location and secure permission before fishing on private land. Eagle Creek will remain open for coho angling until Nov. 30 with a bag limit of three adipose fin-clipped fish.
FOSTER RESERVOIR: Rainbow Trout
Rainy weather will help raise water levels and improve opportunities for angling.
HERMAN CREEK: summer steelhead, coho salmon, chinook salmon
The angling at Lower Herman Creek has been very good with lots of coho in the lagoon. The anglers in the now handicapped only are having much better success at catching fish since the change took effect in August. The Herman Creek slough west of the Peninsula was changed to handicap access only for the retention of chinook, adipose fin-clipped coho salmon and adipose fin-clipped steelhead consistent with regulations recently adopted by the ODFW Commission. All other regulations regarding Herman Creek remain the same.
JUNCTION CITY POND: rainbow trout
Junction City Pond will be stocked with large rainbow trout brood stock the week of Dec. 10.
NORTH AND SOUTH SANTIAM: steelhead
Santiam River levels still remain high as Detroit and Green Peter reservoir levels are being lowered to minimum flood control pools.
SANDY RIVER: Closed Oct. 31 for coho
The Fish and Wildlife Commission adopted new sport-fishing regulations for the Sandy River which move the fishing deadline (or boundary) upstream to the mouth of the Salmon River (near Brightwood) beginning Jan. 1, 2008.
This will provide an additional seven miles of fishing opportunity in an area that was historically popular among anglers before 1999 regulations closed the area. The changes are the result of the removal of Marmot Dam, which made the current angling deadline of "200 feet below the dam" obsolete.
Anglers are reminded that coho angling on the Sandy closed on Oct 31. It is still a little early to see any numbers of winter steelhead in the river. The Sandy fish are now a later returning stock versus what anglers were used to a few years ago. This is a result of the wild broodstock program initiated under the current Sandy River fish management plan.
The recent breaching of the temporary coffer dam at Marmot has the potential to affect conditions downstream of that area. The entire section of river near the dam removal site is a hazardous construction zone with no public entrance allowed at this time.
Access to the river can be gained from many parks including Lewis and Clark, Dabney, Oxbow, and Dodge. Bank access is also available to the Cedar Creek area at the Sandy Hatchery. When fishing the Oxbow Park area, remember that there is no angling from a floating device upstream from a point that is 200 feet below the Oxbow Park boat ramp.
Collection/recycling receptacles for discarded or lost fishing gear can now be found along the Sandy River. Look for them near boat ramps at Lewis and Clark, Dabney, Oxbow, and Dodge parks. Any tangled fishing line or old gear can be collected and disposed of in these canisters as an effort to maintain a healthy, clean Sandy River. Please use nearby garbage cans for any other types of trash.
WALTER WIRTH LAKE/WALLING POND: Rainbow trout
Walter Wirth Lake and Walling Pond in Salem are scheduled to be stocked with catchable sized trout the week of Dec. 10. Walter Wirth Lake will also receive a few of the larger brood stock rainbow trout.
WILLAMETTE RIVER: sturgeon, winter steelhead
Angling for winter steelhead will be improving over the coming weeks as the traditional "season opener" began around Thanksgiving weekend in the Meldrum Bar area. With winters already in the lower Clackamas, fish should be hugging the east bank of the Willamette on their way upstream. The Lower Willamette below the falls closed for coho angling on Oct. 31.
Please note that the Willamette River, including Multnomah Channel, is operating under recently updated and modified rules. Effective Oct. 1 through Dec. 31, the retention of sturgeon is allowed on all seven days of the week. Please also note that anglers are limited to the use of only one single-point barbless hook while angling for sturgeon.
Sturgeon angling has been fair to good on the Lower Willamette as the fish move in from the Columbia. Reports indicate decent catches of keepers and shakers from the St Johns area all the way up into Oregon City.
Bank fishing for sturgeon can be found at Meldrum Bar and at the wall in downtown Oregon City. Sturgeon anglers have been using frozen smelt, herring, or sand shrimp as effective bait.
WILLAMETTE ZONE HUNTING
OPEN: Waterfowl, blue grouse, ruffed grouse, California quail, mountain quail, bear, cougar, crow, turkey
Turkey - The South Willamette district where the general season is open supports large numbers of turkeys. Unfortunately, many flocks occur near urban areas. Huntable flocks are distributed on low elevation private property. Most public lands in the zone do not have suitable habitat to support turkeys so hunters will need to have access to private land for good turkey hunting. If you are lucky enough to have that access, the season should be excellent.
Blue grouse, ruffed grouse, mountain and California quail - Look for Mountain and California quail, blue and ruffed grouse while they search for their meal of berries and insects along graveled roads. Hunters targeting the blue grouse should look in upper elevations, openings and clear cuts. Ruffed grouse are more common along streams. Mountain quail should be found in 3-5 year-old clear cuts.
ODFW staff observed good populations of blue and ruffed grouse in the Cascades. The number of grouse chicks observed along the Coast range appears average. Hunters have reported success of ruffed grouse in lower elevations along rocky roads close to water and blue grouse in higher elevations.
Department surveys for California and Mt. Quail showed poor chick survival in the North Willamette Watershed District management units this summer. Hunters will need to look for a variety of berries, grains and other food sources that will concentrate birds.
Hunting after or during rainfall makes the woods quieter and easier to sneak up on prey.
Waterfowl:
Duck, merganser, goose, snipe - Willamette Valley waterfowl season is in full swing with most of the available ducks being mallards and other local birds although a few migrants are starting to arrive from the north. The weather usually plays a large role in the success of hunters on a given day, with the best conditions being on the onset of storms when birds are leaving the large water bodies and seeking shelter in vegetated areas along the edges of estuaries and lakes. Hunting on windy and rainy days can improve a hunt whereas the birds will fly lower to the ground, and easier to shoot.
Bear and cougar - In North Willamette Watershed, bear and cougar are rare in Scappoose, east Trask, northeast Stott Mt. and Willamette units; populations are higher in north Santiam unit. The highest densities of bears in the South Willamette Watershed can be found in the Siuslaw and Indigo units. Bear activity should be tapering off as bear den. Hunters looking for bears should concentrate on low elevation areas. Hunters wishing to pursue cougars should try calling or glassing in areas holding abundant wintering deer or elk populations.
Sauvie Island Wildlife Area
An aerial survey conducted Nov. 14 found more than 107,000 waterfowl on the Island.
Sauvie Island Wildlife Area success rates are as follows: Dec. 9 averaged 1.2 birds per hunter with Johnson, Rentenaar, and Aaron leading; Dec. 7 averaged 1.8 birds per hunter with Johnson leading at an astonishing 6.2 birds per hunter average; Dec. 5 averaged 1.9 birds per hunter with Aaron, Johnson, and Rentenaar leading; Dec. 3 averaged 2.8 birds per hunter with Malarky and Stutzer leading; Dec. 1 averaged 1.5 birds per hunter with Racetrack, Rentenaar and Johnson leading; Nov. 29 averaged 2.6 birds per hunter with Seal, Stulzer and Johnson units leading.
Sauvie Island Wildlife Area hunters are enjoying a successful waterfowl season. Oregon's waterfowl population is up 27 percent and nationwide up 14 percent. The food crops and moist soil plants are in excellent condition and will provide good feeding opportunities well into the season. All hunt units will have flooded areas with opportunities for decoy use.
EE Wilson Wildlife Area
Rabbit hunting continues to be excellent at EE Wilson Wildlife area. The week of Dec. 3, EE Wilson reported 86 hunters with a harvest of 71 rabbits, 1 quail and 1 duck. With recent rains, most ponds have sufficient water to attract waterfowl, with fair numbers of waterfowl on the wildlife area. Goose hunting is not permitted at EE Wilson Wildlife Area, but hunting for duck and snipe is allowed.
Fern Ridge Wildlife Area
Success rate at Fern Ridge Wildlife Area is as follows: Dec. 8 averaged 0.6 birds per hunter with blind 11 leading with 5 birds; Dec. 5 averaged 0.6 birds per hunter with blinds 11 and 10 leading; Dec. 3 averaged 2.9 birds per hunter with blinds 2W and 9 leading; Dec. 1 averaged 2.5 birds per hunter with blinds 11, 8, 9 & 7 leading; Nov. 28 averaged .7 birds per hunter with blinds 5 & 4 leading; Nov. 26 averaged 2.2 birds per hunter with blinds 10 & 11 leading.
The East and West Coyote units are open to entry in conjunction with the reservation waterfowl hunt. Hunters who missed the reservation cut-off date are welcome to attend the reservation hunt and take their chances as a stand-by hunter any Mon-Wed-Sat mornings.
The Fisher Butte and Royal Amazon units are currently open for hunting daily with a 1:00 p.m. closure on hunting and a 2:00 p.m. closure for public access. The closure is in effect to provide daily periods of sanctuary for waterfowl. The exception to the 2:00 p.m. closure is that the Royal Avenue roadway and the trail to the Fisher Butte unit viewing blind remain open all day, year-round.
Units that are open to hunting are also open to pheasant hunting during general pheasant season and the fee hunt tag is no longer required. One of the best bets is the large grassland field in the southern portion of the Fisher Butte unit accessible by the parking area on Highway 126.
Winter drawdown of Fern Ridge lake is well underway to provide flood storage capacity in the Willamette basin system. Hunters using boats on the lake are cautioned to watch for exposed stumps and shallow water areas as the lake level continues to drop daily. In order to make your visit with local game troopers a pleasant one, be sure to check your license documents before heading to the field, double check to see if your plug is still in your shotgun, and be sure to pack only non-toxic shot. Call the wildlife area headquarters at (541) 935-2591 for updates and additional information.
WILLAMETTE ZONE VIEWING
EVENTS
Join in the Christmas Bird Count!
Oregon's Christmas Bird Count; Dec. 14 through Jan. 5
Birders of all experience levels are invited. It's great fun, as well as a way to improve your birding skills, find new places to go birding and meet other birders. If you can't join the field teams, take part by counting the birds in your yard.
Airlie-Albany Christmas Bird Count Sunday, December 30
Contact Paul Adamus (541) 745-7092, adamus7@comcast.net
Brownsville, Christmas Bird Count, Wednesday, December 26
Contact Barbara Combs, (541) 689-6660, bcombs232@gmail.com
Meet 7:00 a.m. at Pioneer Villa Restaurant (Brownsville exit off Interstate 5).
Corvallis Christmas Bird Count, Tuesday, December 18
Contact Marcia F. Cutler, (541) 752-4313, marciafcutler@comcast.net
Cowlitz/Columbia Christmas Bird Count, Tuesday, January 1
Contact Bob Reistroffer, (360) 636-5125, breistrof@aol.com
Dallas, Christmas Bird Count, Thursday, December 27
Contact Roy Gerig, (503) 589-4636, roygerig@hotmail.com
Meet 7:00 a.m. at Farrol's Restaurant in Rickreall, South of Hwy 22 along Hwy 99W.
Eugene Christmas Bird Count Sunday, December 30
Contacts: Dick Lamster, (541) 343-8664, maeve@uoregon.edu
Barbara Gleason (volunteer coordinator), (541) 345-0450, bdgleason@comcast.net
Sector teams and meeting places arranged in advance; please contact compiler.
Forest Grove, Christmas Bird Count, Saturday, December 22
Contact Mary Anne Sohlstrom, (503) 463-9540, masohlstrom@msn.com
Meet 7:00 a.m. (earlier if eating breakfast), Elmer's Pancake House, 390 SW Adams, Hillsboro.
Portland Christmas Bird Count, Saturday, January 5
Portland will hold its 82nd Count this year. Birders will comb the parks, open spaces, wetlands, rivers and neighborhoods all over Portland looking for birds. At the end of the day, volunteers get together and share what they found. For more information, contact Wink Gross, winkg@hevanet.com, (503) 226-3842
Salem Christmas Bird Count, Saturday, December 15
Glen Lindeman, (503) 364-6968, gdalindy@msn.com
Contact the compiler; teams arranged in advance.
Silverton Christmas Bird Count, Saturday, January 5
Contact Roger Freeman, carrotguy@att.net
Sauvie Island Christmas Bird Count, Saturday, December 29
Oregon contact: Karen Bachman (503) 289-3605 or (503) 802-2057, konion6@comcast.net or karen@tonkon.com
The Audubon Christmas Bird Count is the oldest and largest citizen science event in the world. For over a hundred years, people have gathered together during the winter holiday season to count birds. Citizen science is recognized as an important component of the Oregon Conservation Strategy, http://www.dfw.state.or.us/conservationstrategy/
For more information on Christmas Bird Counts, visit the Portland Audubon Web site, http://www.audubonportland.org/events/christmas_bird_count/cbc2007
National Audubon Society's Web site, http://www.audubon.org/bird/cbc/getinvolved.html
Tryon Winter Solstice, Dec. 16, 2-3 p.m., Tryon Creek State Natural Area
Friends of Tryon Creek State Park director will lead a program for all ages about the shortest day of the year and the effects on the natural world. The winter solstice, also known as midwinter usually occurs between Dec. 20 and 23.
For more information: http://www.oregonstateparks.org/park_144.php?eventid1563&mdevent
Birds of Prey and Winter Waterfowl of Sauvie Island; Dec. 14; noon to 4:30pm
Portland Audubon Society will introduce you to the myriad of ducks, geese, and birds of prey that make Sauvie Island their home during the cold winter months. Bald Eagles, Northern Rough-legged Hawks, Peregrine Falcons, Merlin and Marsh Hawks are among the birds of prey we will see. Pre-registration is required.
To register: http://www.audubonportland.org/trips_classes_camps/adult_programs/wildcity/sauvieisland
Around the region
Look for birds of prey on your next road trip. When the weather turns cold, several raptors including eagles, hawks and falcons leave the tops of trees and look closer to the ground for their next meal. They can be easily seen along highways as they perch on the tops of road signs and power lines watching for mice and other rodents in ditches and empty fields.
For more information on viewing birds of prey:
http://www.metro-region.org/index.cfm/go/by.web/id12330
Forest Grove Area
NEW: Fernhill Wetlands
Fernhill Wetlands is 243 acres of wetland and moist soil habitats. From November through March, thousands of waterfowl populations can be seen daily. Currently, the resident American bald eagles can be found in the tops of cottonwoods. The bare trees make it easier to see them.
For information on Fernhill Wetlands, visit
http://thebirdguide.com/washington/site_guides/fernhill_wetlands/fernhill.htm
Portland Area
NEW: Mt. Talbert Nature Park
The nature park includes the top of the former lava dome as well as the west facing slopes visible to the tens of thousands of people that travel I-205 every day or shop at the Clackamas Town Center. The park offers miles of new hiking trails, information about the cultural and natural resources found there and greater access to nature close to home.
A series of interpretive signs along the trails provide visitors information about the plants and animals that can be seen n and heard n at the nature park. Residents and visitors to Mount Talbert include deer, coyotes, raccoons, Western gray squirrel, rubber boa, pileated and hairy woodpeckers, white-breasted nuthatch, Western tanager and many more.
The park is just east of I-205 and south of Sunnyside Road. From Southeast Sunnybrook Boulevard turn south on 97th Avenue and follow until it becomes Mather Road. The park entrance is on the left off of Mather Road.
For information on the park, visit
http://www.metro-region.org/index.cfm/go/by.web/id22177
Sauvie Island
Sauvie Island Wildlife Area
NEW: Sauvie Island is a great place for a day trip; there are lots of raptors to see . A resident cooper's hawk can frequently be seen near the Sauvie Island Wildlife Area office on Sauvie Island Road. Cooper's hawks are a medium-sized hawk whose diet consists mainly of birds.
Viewing areas currently open to the public are Coon Point, the Eastside Viewing Platform and Rentenaar Road. Other raptors that can be seen on Sauvie Island include barn owls, bald eagles, red-tailed hawks, American kestrels, and northern harriers. A variety of waterfowl and migratory birds are easily viewed on the wildlife area including Aleutian cackling and dusky Canada geese.
Delve deeper into the Wildlife Area by hiking the trail to Warrior Rock. The trail begins on the beaches of the Columbia River and winds through the wildlife area back out to the Columbia at a charming old lighthouse.
A parking permit is required for the Sauvie Island Wildlife Area and can be purchased at ODFW Point of Sale vendors. A daily permit is $3.50 and an annual permit is only $11.00.
Directions to Sauvie Island Wildlife Area: http://www.dfw.state.or.us/wildlifearea/sauvieisland.htm
NORTHWEST ZONE
FISHING
Trout fishing has closed in streams (including tidewaters and bays), except as noted in regulations.
Anglers, particularly boaters, should use extreme caution when fishing local waters. Many roads are blocked or damaged, and large amounts of debris is present in most rivers. Log jams or other hazards may be present in many places. Silt and other debris will make launching boats difficult at some ramps until they can be cleaned up.
NORTH COAST LAKES:
Surplus hatchery summer steelhead were released in Town and Cape Meares lakes recently. Approximately 175 fish have been released in Town Lake and 87 in Cape Meares Lake.
Forest roads leading to several local lakes may be damaged or blocked. Anglers should check with the appropriate land manager about road conditions prior to heading out.
MID COAST LAKES:
Siltcoos and Tahkenitch Lakes (located just south of Florence along Hwy 101) are open to wild coho salmon retention through Dec. 31. The daily bag limit is one adult coho salmon and one jack coho salmon. Anglers are limited to retaining five adult coho, in combination, from Siltcoos and Tahkenitch lakes during the season. Coho are entering Siltcoos Lake in large numbers and fishing is currently good. Fishing is anticipated to be excellent over the next week or so following the big storm. Trolling or casting lures and fishing bait from a bobber are effective methods. The coho fishing boundaries are as follows.
The waters of Siltcoos Lake open for coho angling are defined as that area upstream from the Highway 101 Bridge and downstream of the railroad trestle on the Maple Creek arm and the Fivemile Road crossing on the Fiddle Creek arm.
The waters of Tahkenitch Lake open for coho angling are defined as that area upstream from the Highway 101 Bridge and downstream of the first road crossing on the Leitel Creek arm and the ODFW Marker at the bridge on the 059 Road just west of Douglas County Road 49.
ALSEA RIVER: winter steelhead
Anglers have been picking up a few winter steelhead in the mainstem river. Both drift boat fishing and bank angling is productive using a variety of baits, jigs and other lures. River conditions are looking favorable for the coming week. Good returns typically start to show by the end of the month.
Current river levels: http://www.nwrfc.noaa.gov/river/station/flowplot/flowplot.cgi?TIDO3
BIG CREEK: steelhead
Winter steelhead are being caught below the hatchery. Big Creek is usually one of the better streams early in the season.
GNAT CREEK: steelhead
A few winter steelhead are being caught in the lower river. Gnat Creek is a good stream to fish when other rivers are high and off-color.
NECANICUM RIVER: steelhead
A few winter steelhead are being caught. Concentrate on the lower river for best success. Boaters should use extreme caution. Log and debris jams may be present in one or more locations.
NEHALEM RIVER:
The Nehalem River Road is closed at the Salmonberry River. Flood waters blew out the bridge over the Salmonberry. Use alternate routes.
NORTH FORK NEHALEM RIVER: steelhead
Angling for winter steelhead is slow to fair overall, but should improve as more fish arrive through December. Boaters beware- downed trees or other hazards may create problems. Anglers may call 503-368-5670 for recorded fishing information.
NESTUCCA RIVER AND THREE RIVERS: chinook, steelhead
Fall chinook angling is slow. Many fish are dark and should be released. Chinook are also needed for broodstock for the Rhoades Pond STEP program. Contact ODFW in Tillamook at 503-842-2741 or Cedar Creek Hatchery at 503-392-3485 for information on donating fish to the program. A few early winter steelhead are available in the lower river and in Three Rivers up to the hatchery. Water levels have receded, but have slow to clear up.
SALMON RIVER: chinook, coho, winter steelhead
Fishing for Chinook and hatchery coho has nearly ceased. Any remaining fish will be dark and spawning, these fish should be released. A few winter steelhead are starting to return with better numbers expected to start showing in January.
SILETZ RIVER: chinook, steelhead
The fall Chinook fishery is slow throughout the basin and nearly over. With a small return this season anglers are having a difficult time catching fresh bright fish. Most fish this time of year are dark and preferably should be released to spawn. Winter steelhead have been observed throughout the river and fishing is starting to pick up. Drift boat angling is the most productive early on fishing from Logsden down to Morgan Park. Floating and/or back bouncing fresh baits, jigs and lures can be very productive.
Current river levels and forecasts: http://www.nwrfc.noaa.gov/river/station/flowplot/flowplot.cgi?SILO3
SIUSLAW RIVER: Chinook, winter steelhead
The fall chinook fishery is slow and nearly ceased. Most fish in the system are now very dark and spawning, these fish should be released unharmed. Some early winter steelhead are beginning to show up and be caught in the lower river. Drift boat angling is the most productive early on as more water can be covered. Drifting or back bouncing fresh bait, jigs or other lures can be very productive.
Current river levels and forecasts: http://www.nwrfc.noaa.gov/river/station/flowplot/flowplot.cgi?MPLO3
TILLAMOOK BAY: chinook, sturgeon
Fall chinook fishing is winding down. A few fish are still available, but the bay has been muddy after recent storms.
Angling for sturgeon should be good. High, muddy waters should stir up food sources and draw more fish into the bay.
WILSON RIVER: chinook, steelhead
The river has receded from flood levels, but is clearing very slowly. Check river conditions before heading out. A few winter steelhead and late fall chinook will be available when river conditions improve. A large tree settled out just below Mills Bridge. Boaters need to use caution.
TRASK RIVER: chinook, steelhead
A log jam is blocking the river at the railroad bridge. Do not attempt to float downstream of Lorens Drift. A few fall chinook and early winter steelhead are present in the river. The river has been slow to clear after the flood.
KILCHIS RIVERS: chinook, steelhead
Angling for fall chinook and winter steelhead is slow to fair. The river was one of the first to clear after the flood. A large tree is partially blocking the river just above the 101 takeout. Boaters should use extreme caution, especially as flows drop.
Current river levels for major north coast streams are available at: http://ahps2.wrh.noaa.gov/ahps2/index.php?wfopqr
YAQUINA RIVER: chinook
The fall Chinook fishery has nearly ceased with most remaining fish very dark and spawning. Winter steelhead will start showing any time now. The best option is to fish Big Elk Creek starting just above tide water.
NORTHWEST ZONE HUNTING
Visit the region's Fall Hunting Forecast
http://www.dfw.state.or.us/RR/hunting_forecast/2007_fall_northwest.asp
OPEN: Waterfowl, blue grouse, ruffed grouse, California quail, mountain quail, bear, cougar, crow
Forest grouse and mountain quail
Look for these birds while they search for their meal of seeds, insects and grit along graveled roads in the forest. Hunters targeting the blue grouse should look in upper elevations, especially forested areas on ridge tops. Ruffed grouse are more common along stream bottoms and mid-slope areas. Mountain quail should be found in older, brushy clear cuts, especially on south facing slopes, and tend to be more abundant in the eastern half of the coast range than the western half. ODFW staff observed higher than average number of grouse and moderate numbers of mountain quail on summer surveys in the Coast range.
Waterfowl
Duck season on the north coast in December tends to be better when there is freezing weather in the Willamette Valley, pushing more birds to the coast. Dry periods tend to enhance hunting on coastal bays as there is less water in fields and pastures to disperse feeding birds. With new groups of mallards, wigeon, pintails and teal on north coast estuaries, the "rafts" of ducks on the bays are larger than earlier in the season. Generally, the weather usually plays a large role in the success of hunters on a given day, with the best conditions being on the onset of storms when birds are leaving the large water bodies and seeking shelter in vegetated areas along the edges of estuaries and lakes. Goose hunting reopens in Tillamook County for Northwest Oregon Special Permit holders beginning Dec. 15 and running on Saturdays and Sundays thereafter through early March. Check the game bird regulations for special closures, bag limit, checkout and other information regarding goose hunting on the north coast.
Bear and cougar
Black Bear are becoming much less active on the north coast and most have likely denned up for the winter. Some large boars may still be active and activity may increase during periods of warmer weather when they will emerge from dens for a short time. A strategy for hunting them in the early morning and late evening hours is watching clear-cuts, old meadows and natural openings. At other times during the day, use of a predator call is the best approach. Generally, long and persistent calling is the most effective way to call them in.
All indicators point to the north coast as having relatively low cougar densities, when compared to most of the rest of the state. However, they can still be located, especially if hunters are dedicated to using calls as their primary strategy. Like with black bear, cougar are probably most effectively hunted by long and persistent calling with a predator call.
NORTHWEST ZONE VIEWING
EVENTS
Join in the Christmas Bird Count!
Oregon's Christmas Bird Count; Dec. 14 through Jan. 5
Birders of all experience levels are invited. It's great fun, as well as a way to improve your birding skills, find new places to go birding and meet other birders. If you can't join the field teams, take part by counting the birds in your yard.
Astoria, Columbia Estuary, Christmas Bird Count, Sunday, December 16
Mike Patterson, (503) 325-1365, celata@pacifier.com
Meet 7:00 a.m. at Pig-n-Pancake Restaurant in Astoria.
Knappa and Brownsmead, OR and Wahkiakum, WA, Christmas Bird Count, Friday, December 28
Contact Andrew Emlen, (360) 795-8009, aceasp@pacifier.com
Oregon counters meet 7:00 a.m. at The Logger Restaurant, Knappa.
Washington counters meet 7:00 a.m. at Skamokawa Center in Skamokawa.
Tillamook Bay Christmas Bird Count, Saturday, December 15
Owen Schmidt, (503) 282-9403, oschmidt@att.net
Meet by 7:00 a.m., Fern Restaurant, 1000 N. Hwy. 101, Tillamook (6:30 a.m. no-host buffet breakfast).
Upper Nestucca, Christmas Bird Count, Thursday, December 27, 2007
Contact Don Albright, (503) 538-8890, donalbri@teleport.com
Yaquina Bay Christmas Bird Count, Saturday, January 5
Contact Rebecca Cheek, (541) 867-4699, nelsoncheek@charter.net
Meet 7:00 a.m., Apple Peddler Restaurant, 705 SE Coast Hwy, Newport.
The Audubon Christmas Bird Count is the oldest and largest citizen science event in the world. For over a hundred years, people have gathered together during the winter holiday season to count birds. Citizen science is recognized as an important component of the Oregon Conservation Strategy, http://www.dfw.state.or.us/conservationstrategy/
For more information on Christmas Bird Counts, visit the Portland Audubon Web site, http://www.audubonportland.org/events/christmas_bird_count/cbc2007
National Audubon Society's Web site, http://www.audubon.org/bird/cbc/getinvolved.html
Bald Eagles, Live! Dec. 15, 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., Tillamook Forest Center
Learn about bald eagles, our national symbol. These large birds of prey build incredible nests and are efficient hunters and scavengers. Guests will shuttle over to the Smith homestead Day Use Area and walk to the meadow to attempt to view the wintering eagles.
For more information: http://tillamookforestcenter.org/calendar/index.cfm?eventevents.list
Salmon Walk, Dec. 22, 11:30am and 1:30pm, Tillamook Forest Center
Salmon begin their amazing journey up the rivers of the Tillamook State Forest this time of year to spawn. Join Tillamook Forest Center to learn about life cycles and habitat requirements. After a short presentation, the class will take a walk over to Jones Creek to try to observe these impressive fish.
For more information: http://tillamookforestcenter.org/calendar/index.cfm?eventevents.list
North Coast
Watch for Whales
From mid-December to mid-January, about 18,000 gray whales will pass the Oregon coast on the way from Alaska to Mexico. During the week of Dec. 26, 2007 n Tue, Jan. 1, 2008, trained volunteers will be present at 28 sites on the coast to show visitors the gray whales. The main body of whales is about 5 mile off shore, but some can be seen as close as 1-2 miles off shore. For more information, http://whalespoken.org/
Winter Shorebirding on the North Coast
During winter storm season, don't be alarmed by a few or moderate number of dead seabirds along the shoreline. It is common for a severe storm event to disrupt many seabirds. If you see an injured bird or a large number of dead birds, call your local wildlife rehabilitation center or ODFW office for advice.
Some shorebirds that aren't often seen on the coast for most of the year, can be seen during the winter months as they move to winter homes along the coast. Birds to look for include semipalmated plover, black turnstone, surfbird, sanderling, least sandpiper and common snipe. The best time to view shorebirds is during high tide, which pushes the birds to dry areas. For good viewing visit the Necanicum River estuary off Hwy 101 between Seaside and Gearhart and Haystack Rock in Cannon Beach.
For more information on Haystack Rock:
http://www.cannon-beach.net/cbhaystack.html
Winter Raptor viewing
Look for birds of prey on your next road trip. When the weather turns cold, several raptors including eagles, hawks and falcons leave the tops of trees and look closer to the ground for their next meal. They can be easily seen along highways as they perch on the tops of road signs and power lines watching for mice and other rodents in ditches and empty fields.
For more information on viewing birds of prey:
http://www.metro-region.org/index.cfm/go/by.web/id12330
Astoria Area
NEW: Twilight Eagle Sanctuary
Twilight Eagle Sanctuary, located east of Astoria off of Hwy 30, is not only a haven for bald eagles but also for numerous water-loving birds. The Wolf Bay area is currently host to a variety of ducks, including both divers and dabblers. At lower tides, shorebirds can be seen feeding on the mudflats. Bring your binoculars, or better yet, your spotting scope.
Pacific City Area
NEW: Sand Lake
Sand Lake is a relatively undeveloped estuary, north of Pacific City. Whalen Island, which sits in the middle of the estuary, is home to the Clay Myers State Natural Area. Not only can you see loons, grebes, shorebirds, ducks, geese and other water-loving birds in the estuary, the island also has a short and easy trail through the uplands portion where resident and wintering songbirds can be seen. Also, keep your eyes on the tall conifers surrounding the estuary for wintering bald eagles. The adults are actually easy to spot, with their white heads, against the dark green foliage of the trees.
For more information on the estuary visit the Coastal Atlas Web site, http://www.coastalatlas.net/learn/settings/estuary/estuary.asp?es6
NEW: Nestucca Bay National Wildlife Refuge
Nestucca Bay National Wildlife Refuge is located just south of Pacific City along Hwy. 101. If you're a Canada goose enthusiast, here you can see a variety of races of geese, both resident and migratory ones. The best viewing is right along Hwy. 101 in the fields that the refuge staff keep managed for grazing geese and other wildlife.
For more information, http://www.fws.gov/oregoncoast/nestuccabay/
Seaside Area
Jewell Meadows Wildlife Area
NEW: Reservations for the winter elk feeding tour program have been filled. Elk viewing has been good along Hwy 202. The best viewing times are from 9:00 a.m. to about noon. Staff tries to feed fairly close to the viewing areas, especially on weekends, to allow for better viewing opportunities. Other wildlife that visitors may see at Jewell Meadows include: coyotes, red-tailed hawks, sharp-shinned hawks, bald eagles and various song birds.
Jewell Meadows is located near Seaside along Hwy 202. Directions and information: http://www.dfw.state.or.us/wildlifearea/jewellmeodows.htm
Tillamook Area
Cape Meares Lake
Cape Meares Lake, located west of Tillamook on Bayocean Spit, is a spot to find migrating waterbirds such as grebes, coots and loons. Occasionally, bald eagles can be seen roosting in the tall spruce trees just south of the lake. Recent observations have shown that some migrating ducks from the north have arrived, and the lake is a favorite hangout of canvasbacks and occasionally sea ducks.
Tillamook Forest Center
The Gales Creek Overlook invites visitors to stop and gaze over the revitalized forest near the eastern entry to the Tillamook Forest on the Wilson River Highway (Highway 6). This site features an expansive view of a relatively young Douglas-fir forest, planted in the 1940s after the fires scorched nearly the entire original forest. A few remnant forest giants still stand in view along the distant ridges providing a variety of habitats for several forest dwelling animals and birds.
SOUTHWEST ZONE
FISHING
Trout fishing is now closed in streams (including tidewaters and bays), except as noted in regulations.
APPLEGATE RIVER: trout
The Applegate River is open for adipose fin-clipped trout. Trout fishing has been good. Anglers are catching and releasing wild rainbow trout up to 15 to 16 inches between Jackson Picnic Park and the deadline below the dam. Worms are the bait of choice. Rainbow trout over 16 inches are considered steelhead and must be released unharmed.
APPLEGATE RESERVOIR: trout, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass
A good place to fish for trout during the winter months. One angler recently reported catching 5 fish, 3 in the 10-12 inch range and 2 in the 12-14 inch range. He attempted to catch bluegill and crappie, but none would bite. Recommended gear includes, bait, spinners, and flies. Fish a variety of depths and locations.
Three different boat ramps are available at different reservoir elevations. The Hart-Tish boat ramp is available from full pool (1987 feet above sea level) down to 1928 feet above sea level. The Copper boat ramp is not locked up and can be used down to 1940 feet above sea level. The gate is opened and the French Gulch boat ramp is available at reservoir levels below 1940 feet above sea level. Current reservoir level above sea level can be obtained at 1-800-472-2434.
BABYFOOT LAKE: rainbow trout
No new report
CHETCO RIVER: steelhead
Chinook fishing is coming to an end as most Chinook are in the tributaries or spawning in the mainstem. Anglers should turn their attention to steelhead as many fish have been picked up as late. The Chetco should be fishing excellent by the weekend and anglers can expect fresh steelhead moving in daily. Anglers can keep an eye on the flow by looking at http://waterdata.usgs.gov/or/nwis/uv?14400000. The best flows to fish the Chetco are 4,000 cfs and dropping.
COOS COUNTY LAKES: trout, bass
Fish stocking is over for the year but holdover fish should be available into the winter. Many of these lakes hold warmwater fish species such as bluegill and crappie. Although the bite will be slower this time of year, warmwater fish can still be caught in cooler temperatures.
COOS RIVER BASIN: winter steelhead
Steelhead fishing has been fair in the Coos basin. Both forks of the Millicoma and the South Coos produced fish in the past week. The West Fork Millicoma has good public access on the Elliott State Forest where many steelhead are caught. The Nesika Park area on the East Fork also has good public access. Access to the South Fork above Dellwood requires a permit from Weyerhaeuser Co., available at Airport Heights and TNT Markets. Weyerhaeuser is no longer issuing these permits at their Dellwood office. The stretch of river above Dellwood has good bank access and an acclimation site near mile 5 where fish will hold.
COQUILLE RIVER BASIN: winter steelhead
Steelhead fishing should be pretty good but few reports have come in. Some fish have been observed around Laverne Park on the North Fork. The South Fork and North Fork Coquille provide good opportunities for anglers to catch steelhead. Laverne Park on the North Fork provides good bank access for anglers. Anglers are reminded that the East Fork Coquille does not open for steelhead angling until Dec 1.
DIAMOND LAKE: rainbow trout
The lake is now closed to fishing until April 26, 2008.
ELK/SIXES RIVER: fall Chinook
Anglers can expect good fishing conditions by late this week. Chinook are scattered throughout the river, with fresh fish expected to move in as the water drops into shape. Elk River fishes best at 5.0 feet and dropping. Anglers can call Elk River Hatchery (541-332-7025) to get the latest gage heights. Kwikfish with a sardine wrap or back bouncing salmon eggs will work the best.
EMIGRANT RESERVOIR: trout, bass
Good bet for winter trout fishing. The reservoir is deep enough for holdover trout. Try fishing bait and lures and spinners near cover. Try submerged ledges that drop off, near the mouths of gullies and streams, vegetation, and deeper areas also. As expected, bass fishing is slow at this time of year, but they are still biting, according to one angler that was interviewed by a Jackson County Parks Employee.
FISH LAKE: rainbow trout
With angling pressure low, Fish Lake is a good place to fish in the winter for trout. Try bait, spinners, and lures. Anglers are warned that the lake may get ice covered when it gets real cold and snowy. Thin ice on the lake can be very dangerous.
GALESVILLE RESERVIOR: rainbow trout, bass
Galesville Reservoir is open to angling year-round. Fishing for trout is currently fair. Some anglers report seeing external "worms" on a few of the trout, and in some trout's gills. These are copepods, a fish parasite, which occurs naturally throughout the watershed. The copepods can be removed and the fish safely consumed. Anglers at Galesville are catching some of the 26,000 sub-legal sized trout which were stocked in early October. These fish, while still too small to keep, have grown nicely and are now about 6 inches long. They should help provide an excellent spring fishery. The harvestable trout were 10 n 12 inches. A few 10 inch, coho have also been caught.
GARRISON LAKE: trout
Garrison is also a good bet for rainbow trout and cutthroat. Bank access is limited to the State Park or 12th street boat ramp. The best way to fish Garrison is slow trolling wedding ring spinners or flies.
LAKE SELMAC: trout, bass
Try Lake Selmac for winter trout. Use bait, lures, and flies. Fish near cover.
LOST CREEK RESERVOIR: trout, smallmouth bass
This is a good place to fish for trout all winter. The reservoir was stocked the first week in October with 7,500 legal sized rainbow trout. Try fishing upstream of the Hwy 62 Bridge at the East end of the lake. Four anglers interviewed recently caught 8 trout that ranged in size from 10 to 12 inches. Worms and wedding rings worked well for these anglers.
PACIFIC OCEAN & BEACHES: bottomfish
There hasn't been any sport effort recently due to severe ocean conditions. Bottom fishing can be excellent in the winter when the weather cooperates. Anglers should be cautious of the ocean and bar conditions which can change quickly. Sport boat anglers may no longer keep cabezon but shore anglers may continue to retain legal sized cabezon. The Pacific halibut sport fisheries are closed for the remainder of 2007.
POWERS POND: trout, warmwater fish
Fish stocking is over for 2007. Holdover trout are available as well as warmwater fish that are present all year.
ROGUE RIVER, LOWER: fall chinook, coho, steelhead
Steelhead fishing is slow. Anglers can keep an eye on Rogue River flows at http://waterdata.usgs.gov/or/nwis/uv?14372300. Bank anglers will fair best when flows hit 8,000 n 9,000 cfs and dropping.
ROGUE RIVER, MIDDLE: chinook, trout, steelhead
The flow on Dec. 10 was 2,640 cubic feet per second at Grants Pass. Fishing is slow, pressure is light, and anglers are anticipating the arrival of winter steelhead.
ROGUE RIVER, UPPER: trout, steelhead
Fishing is slow throughout the upper river. Pat's hand tied flies reports a few fish were caught in the last week, but pressure was very light. The number of summer steelhead over Gold Ray increased to 6,962 as of Nov. 26. The outflow from Lost Creek Reservoir was 1,581 cubic feet per second and the outflow temperature was 43 as of Monday morning.
Regulations: Angling is restricted to the use of artificial flies and lures between Gold Ray Dam and the Shady Cove Boat Ramp starting Nov. 1. Consult the regulations for more information. Steelhead anglers should target riffles, runs, and slots, though fish can be found in a variety of waters. Only adipose fin-clipped steelhead, trout, and coho salmon may be harvested.
SODA SPRINGS RESERVOIR: brown and rainbow trout
Soda Springs reservoir is open for trout angling, but tributaries upstream of the reservoir are closed to angling until April 26, 2008. The road to Soda Springs dam is currently closed due to a high volume of dump trucks and heavy equipment. At this time the only access into the reservoir is at Medicine Creek bridge.
SMITH RIVER: cutthroat trout
Striper fishing has been fair, with some very nice stripers being caught in lower Smith River. Trout season is now closed in the Smith River and tributaries. The Smith is currently open for adipose-fin clipped steelhead from the mouth upstream to Sisters Creek on the mainstem and the North Fork Smith from the mouth upstream to Bridge 10. A few steelhead have been counted crossing the falls.
SOUTH COAST LAKES AND PONDS: trout
Fishing is slow on all lakes and ponds.
SOUTH COAST STREAMS: fall chinook, cutthroat trout
Trout season is closed in the Umpqua, Smith River, South Umpqua, North Umpqua, and Cow Creek basins.
SOUTH COAST BEACHES:
No report.
TENMILE BASIN: yellow perch, trout, largemouth bass, winter steelhead, warmwater fish
Tenmile Lakes are open year-round, and holdover fish are available. Winter steelhead will be arriving, but they usually appear later in December, which is later than other river basins like the Coos and Coquille. Warmwater fish species such as bluegill and crappie are in Tenmile Lakes. Although the bite will be slower this time of year, warmwater fish can still be caught in cooler temperatures. Anglers should slow their presentation for warmwater fish during the winter (e.g. if using a lure such as crankbait/spinnerbait, slow the retrieve and allow it to settle more).
TOKETEE LAKE: brown trout
Fishing is open in Toketee all year round. Fishing has been slow but the best fishing occurs early in the morning.
UMPQUA ESTUARY: sturgeon
No new report but fall chinook and coho fishing has been slow in recent weeks. Sturgeon fishing has been improving, some large green sturgeon are being picked up in the Big Bend area. Crabbing has improved with a few limits being caught, the best crabbing is occurring in the half-moon bay area.
UMPQUA HIGH LAKES AND FOREBAYS: trout
No new report. Diamond Lake and Lemolo Lake are closed starting Nov. 1. However the other high cascade lakes are open year-round.
UMPQUA RIVER MAINSTEM: shad, bass, chinook
The river is high and muddy with more rain in the forecast. However as conditions improve the steelhead will be moving. Some hatchery steelhead are already upstream in the Cleveland Rapids area. About 4,500 coho have passed Winchester Dam as of Dec. 1, but angling is slow as most of the fish are actively spawning.
UMPQUA RIVER, NORTH: steelhead, coho
About 4,500 coho have pasted the dam as of Dec. 1. Coho fishing is currently slow. Steelhead fishing for bright fish should slowly improve. Only adipose fin-clipped steelhead can be harvested on the North Umpqua for the remainder of this year and in 2008 due to new regulations that closed the wild steelhead harvest.
UMPQUA RIVER, SOUTH: steelhead
The South Umpqua is open for adipose fin-clipped steelhead only, Dec. 1 n 31, and Jan. 1 n April 30. Fishing is slow, but anglers should have the most success in the lower sections.
WILLOW LAKE: trout, bass
Willow Lake could be a good bet for winter trout angling. Try bait, lures, and flies fished near areas with cover and deep waters.
WINCHESTER BAY: sturgeon, coho, chinook
Fishing remains slow.
SHELLFISH
As a precautionary measure to minimize exposure to potentially contaminated waters generated from recent flooding, shellfish harvest has been closed for beaches, bays, and estuaries from Yaquina Bay north to the Columbia. Areas north of the Siletz are closed to mussel harvest due to elevated levels of PSP. ALWAYS CHECK FOR HEALTH ADVISORIES by calling the Oregon Department of Agriculture's Shellfish line at 1-800-448-2474 for updates.
More information about razor clams and current status of particular areas: http://www.dfw.state.or.us/MRP/shellfish/razorclams
Ocean crabbing opened on Dec. 1 but rough seas have prevented sport crabbers from crossing the bar. Bay crabbing is open the entire year. The next few months are a great time for bay crabbing. Crab are generally full of meat and available in good numbers in coastal bays. Crabbing inside Coos Bay has been good recently with boats returning with nice catches of crab. Shore based crabbers are also getting some keeper crabs. The COOS BAY shoals (20-30 feet deep) along the inside of the North Spit from Empire to Charleston is a good area for crabbing. Public crabbing docks can be found in Winchester Bay, Bandon, Charleston, and Empire.
Information about bay clams: http://www.dfw.state.or.us/MRP/shellfish/bayclams/
SOUTHWEST ZONE HUNTING
OPEN: Fall turkey, blue grouse, ruffed grouse, cougar, bear, California quail, mt. quail, duck, goose
Visit the Southwest Fall Hunting Forecast
http://www.dfw.state.or.us/RR/hunting_forecast/2007_fall_southwest.asp
DOUGLAS COUNTY
BIG GAME:
Deer - Hunters are reminded that for the rest of the hunt year in Douglas County only a few controlled hunts are open. Deer populations are similar to last year.
Elk - Hunters are reminded that for the rest of the hunt year in Douglas County only a few controlled hunts are open. Elk populations are similar to last year.
Bear - Bear season is open. Successful bear hunters are asked to turn in a bear tooth for the ongoing bear statewide population study. The hunt year ends December 31, 2007.
Cougar n Cougar season is open. Hunting cougar is most successful adjacent to private land with high deer populations. The hunt year ends December 31, 2007.
UPLAND GAMEBIRDS:
Grouse & Quail n The season is currently open. Blue grouse success is best in mid to high elevations of the Cascades in partly open conifer stands. Ruffed grouse can be found near creeks mostly at mid elevations of both the Cascades and Coast Range.
Success is best in the lower elevation agricultural lands for California quail and mid-elevations of the Cascades and Coast Range near brushy clear cuts on secondary forest roads for Mountain quail.
Fall Turkey n The season is currently open. Hunters can expect an above average year. Most turkeys are on or adjacent to low-mid elevation private lands associated with oak savannah habitat. The hunt year ends December 31, 2007.
WATERFOWL:
The season for ducks, geese, snipe and coot is currently open. Hunting ducks and geese in Douglas County is good because of excellent local production and good migratory numbers again this year. Nearly all waterfowl hunting in the Umpqua Valley is on private property and hunters should obtain landowner permission before hunting.
MIGRATORY GAMEBIRDS:
Crow n The season is currently open. Hunters can expect an average year. Crow are abundant and widely distributed on the Umpqua Valley floor. Hunting crow is a challenge with most being on or adjacent to private lands.
TRAPPING & HUNTING:
Furbearers n A reminder to trappers and hunters that specific licenses and tags are required to hunt many furbearer species, and hunters should refer to the Oregon Furbearer Trapping and Hunting Regulations for details.
Bobcat, Red & Gray Fox - Healthy populations throughout Western Oregon.
River Otter, Beaver & Raccoon n Healthy populations throughout Western Oregon. The last day of the season for these species is March 15, 2008.
Mink & Muskrat - Healthy populations throughout Western Oregon. The last day of the season for mink and muskrat is March 31, 2008.
Marten n Good populations at higher elevations of the Cascades. The last day of the season is January 31, 2008.
JACKSON, JOSEPHINE, CURRY COUNTIES
BIG GAME:
District staff encourages hunters to wear blaze orange.
TURKEY: Season opened Oct 15 and will run through Dec. 31. Some of the best public hunting spots for turkeys are areas within the Jackson Cooperative Travel Management Area. These areas are Boswell mountain area west of Hwy 62 near Shady Cove and Camel Hump area east of Shady Cove. Another area within the TMA is the Green top unit off of Obenchain road north of Hwy 140 north east of Eagle Point. These areas all have road closure periods and maps are available at local ODFW office.
Deer n Youth controlled deer riffle season will run between December 15 and January 1. Overall deer numbers in our area are on the increase and buck populations are up. Youth should have plenty of opportunity to find deer and bucks will be included. Deer will be found in lower elevation in and around oak trees and brush fields. Remember to wear blaze orange.
Elk - All general elk seasons are done for the year with a few controlled hunts for damage issue going on through March. Youth controlled elk rifle season will run between December 15 and January 1. Youth can expect average success. Remember to wear blaze orange.
Bear n Bear harvest in Jackson, Josephine and Curry County have slowed. Bears should be foraging heavy before winter sets in. Hunters need to locate food sources such as acorns, green grasses and grubs. Bear population continue to remain high. Hunters are reminded to turn in their bear tooth for the statewide population study.
Cougar - Cougars are plentiful, although they are a challenge to locate and harvest. Cougars are best hunted with the use of predatory calls in and around areas of the prey base. Locate major ridge lines and rocky out cropping as areas of travel within their home range.
Western Gray Squirrel n General Western Gray squirrel season closed on Nov. 7 except for that portion of the Rogue unit which is open year round with no bag limit; refer to regulations for more detail. Squirrels are found throughout Rogue River Watershed with only a few hunters taking advantage of another hunting opportunity. Squirrels are found from oak savanna habitat to conifer habitat types. Squirrel hunting is a great opportunity for young hunters to hone their hunting skills.
Grouse & Quail n Successful hunters are locating grouse and quail along closed forest roads and know habitat types. Look for ruffed grouse in timbered creeks and blue grouse on high mountain ridges. Mountain quail will be located in mid-elevation brush fields and California quail will be found in low elevation brush fields. The use of dogs will aid greatly in retrieval of these well camouflaged birds.
Pheasants n Statewide Pheasant season ended on Dec 9.
Waterfowl:
Local waterfowl numbers are good and migrating birds are starting to show. Hunter success will depend on storms to make birds fly and bring more birds into the area. Public waters are limited in the area, with the Rogue River and public lakes and reservoirs open. All fields on Denman Wildlife Area are flooded; storms have led to better hunting conditions and improve success rates. Through the end of waterfowl season, the Hall Tract is open Saturday, Sunday, Wednesday, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas day only. Other tracts are open every day. Goose season for the Southwest general zone will close on Nov. 28 and reopen on Dec 6. The South Coast Zone of goose season is still open and New River is reporting sporadic harvest on local birds, with no migratory birds showing up yet.
TRAPPING & HUNTING:
Furbearers n A reminder to trappers and hunters that specific licenses and tags are required to hunt many furbearer species, and hunters should refer to the Oregon Furbearer Trapping and Hunting Regulations for details.
Bobcat, Red & Gray Fox - Healthy populations throughout Western Oregon.
River Otter, Beaver & Raccoon n Healthy populations throughout Western Oregon. The last day of the season for these species is March 15, 2008.
Mink & Muskrat - Healthy populations throughout Western Oregon. The last day of the season for mink and muskrat is March 31, 2008.
Marten n Good populations at higher elevations of the Cascades. The last day of the season is January 31, 2008.
COOS COUNTY
ELK
All bull seasons and most antlerless elk seasons are closed now in Coos County. However, controlled late-season hunters should have little problem finding elk. Elk can be found in places where winter green-up is providing foraging opportunities. South slopes with mixed forest clearings and heavier cover will be good places to look.
BEAR
With cooler weather bears will soon become inactive and very hard to locate for hunting. However, when we get occasional warn sunny days bears may become temporarily active. These are good days to hunt.
COUGAR
Cougar populations appear to be healthy in Coos County. The animals use very large home ranges. To hunt them hunters should take clues from the cougar's prey, deer and elk, to locate cougars. In areas with high densities of deer and elk hunters may find success attracting cougars with predator calls. These animals can be very illusive and represent a supreme challenge for hunters.
UPLAND BIRDS
Hunting closed roads and creek bottoms for grouse and ridge tops for mountain quail should prove effective to the persistent hunter.
Waterfowl
The fall rains have started and inland valleys are filling up. This will eventually cause waterfowl to move inland. The result will be that hunting on the bays will not be as good as earlier this season but will improve inland. Often edges of flooded fields are very attractive to waterfowl. Seaducks are numerous in local bays so targeting these species may be productive.
SOUTHWEST ZONE VIEWING
EVENTS
Join in the Christmas Bird Count!
Oregon's Christmas Bird Count; Dec. 14 through Jan. 5
Birders of all experience levels are invited. It's great fun, as well as a way to improve your birding skills, find new places to go birding and meet other birders. If you can't join the field teams, take part by counting the birds in your yard.
Coos Bay Christmas Bird Count, Sunday, December 16
Contact Tim Rodenkirk, (541) 269-4696, garbledmodwit@yahoo.com
Florence, Christmas Bird Count, Saturday, December 22
Contact Roger Robb, (541) 343-6557, brrobb@comcast.net
Grants Pass Christmas Bird Count, Saturday, December 15
Contact Dennis Vroman, (541) 479-4619, dpvroman@budget.net
Illinois Valley Christmas Bird Count, Sunday, December 16
Contact Romain Cooper, (541) 592-2311, romain@frontiernet.net
Meet 7:00 a.m., Coffee Heaven, Hwys. 199 & 46 in Cave Junction. Please contact the compiler in advance if possible.
Little Applegate Christmas Bird Count, Sunday, December 30, 2007
Shelley Elkovich, (541) 821-0935, shelleye@mind.net
Medford Christmas Bird Count, Saturday, December 15
Contact Joe Shelton, (541) 772-4490
Port Orford Christmas Bird Count, Saturday, December 29
Contact Jim Rogers, (541) 332-2555, Meet 7:15 a.m., north side of Driftwood Elementary School on Hwy 101.
Roseburg Christmas Bird Count, Saturday, December 15
Ron Maertz, (541) 496-3847
The Audubon Christmas Bird Count is the oldest and largest citizen science event in the world. For over a hundred years, people have gathered together during the winter holiday season to count birds. Citizen science is recognized as an important component of the Oregon Conservation Strategy, http://www.dfw.state.or.us/conservationstrategy/
For more information on Christmas Bird Counts, visit the Portland Audubon Web site, http://www.audubonportland.org/events/christmas_bird_count/cbc2007
National Audubon Society's Web site, http://www.audubon.org/bird/cbc/getinvolved.html
Coos County
NEW: Oddly, there are many pelicans along the South coast. Generally these birds have moved south by this point in the year. Those interested in seeing these birds should watch for them along local beached and other shorelines. Other birds to see in these areas include large numbers of western grebes, common muirs and a mixed variety of gulls. Also, Simpson Reef, located near Charleston, has a large congregation of wintering Steller sea lions, California sea lions and harbor seals.
Often with incoming storms come uncommon visitors to the south coast. Vigilant bird watchers should pay attention to local bays and ocean beach areas for seabirds that end up moving closer to shore as a result of the storms.
The fall rains have started and inland valleys are filling up, causing waterfowl to move inland. The result will be that viewing on the bays will not be as good as earlier this season but will improve inland. Often edges of flooded fields are very attractive to waterfowl.
There are still large numbers of seaducks in the local bays. As with dabbling ducks they are in breeding plumage so this is a good time to photograph for these birds.
Douglas County
Contact the local Audubon chapter to participate in the annual Umpqua Valley Christmas bird count.
Bald Eagles
Bald Eagles are now commonly seen along the mainstem portion of the Umpqua River from Roseburg to Reedsport.
Columbian White-tailed Deer
Viewing is good at Whistler's Bend County Park about 10 miles east of Roseburg. The recently de-listed Roseburg sub-population of white-tailed deer is not hunted inside the county park, and they are easily viewed from a vehicle.
This is a good opportunity to see a species whose population numbers have recovered after a low population level in the 1960s. This once common wetlands and bottomland deer was found in western valleys from Canyonville in the Umpqua Valley northward through the Willamette Valley up to Puget Sound in Washington state. Today, there are only two remaining populations in Oregon/Washington-one in Douglas County around Roseburg and one along the Columbia River.
Douglas County is home to three deer species-black-tailed, white-tailed and mule. Mule deer, however, are only prevalent in higher elevations of Douglas County, near the Diamond Lake for example.
There are a few fairly easy ways to tell the difference between a black-tailed deer and a white-tailed deer on the Umpqua Valley floor. In the fall, white-tails will often have a sandy or light tan colored pelt as opposed to the brown coloration of the black-tail. White-tails have shorter ears, pronounced white eye rings and a larger, wider tail that, when down, is light brown in color fringed with white. When alerted to danger both species raise and wag their tails exposing its white underside as they leave the area.
Since white-tail deer in southern Oregon were federally de-listed a few years ago, ODFW has slowly increased hunting opportunities while continuing work on expanding white-tail deer populations throughout their historical range. Currently, ODFW is focusing on trapping, transplanting and re-establishing white-tails in other areas of Douglas County.
What can Douglas County residents do to help?
First, if you have white-tailed deer on your property and you would consider having ODFW relocate some of them with the goal of increasing populations across the valley, please contact the ODFW the Roseburg office at 541-440-3353.
Second, don't feed the deer. There is plenty of natural forage available to them to survive, even through the winter. Feeding deer can create problems by allowing them to congregate and possibly spread diseases such as deer hairloss syndrome or adenovirus from sick deer to healthy deer. Also, feeding deer can draw other wildlife including predators, like cougar, into you yard. It's best to look and enjoy the deer and other wildlife without feeding them.
To see white-tailed deer, visit Whistlers Bend County Park is located east of Roseburg off Highway 138E, adjacent to the North Umpqua River. The drive through the park is free.
Winter Raptors
Wintering raptors, especially hawks, can commonly be seen along highways throughout the county.
CENTRAL ZONE
FISHING
This fishing report was last updated Nov. 27. 2007
ANTELOPE FLAT RESERVOIR: rainbow trout
No recent reports.
CLEAR LAKE: rainbow trout
No recent reports.
CRESCENT LAKE: brown trout, kokanee
Brown trout fishing has reportedly been very good. This is typically a good time of year to target both brown trout and lake trout on Crescent. Kokanee is slow.
CROOKED RIVER MAINSTEM: rainbow trout
Reports of some good to fair angling for rainbow trout.
CROOKED RIVER BELOW BOWMAN DAM: redband trout
No recent reports. ODFW and OSU have initiated a radio telemetry study on redband trout and whitefish, and anglers are reminded that radio-tagged fish cannot be legally harvested. To determine if a fish is radio-tagged, anglers should check for an eight-inch wire antenna protruding from the rear of both redband and mountain whitefish.
CULTUS LAKE:
No recent reports.
DAVIS LAKE: largemouth bass, redband trout
Recent snowfall may prevent access at this time (Nov. 20). No reports from the past week. Water levels are low making boat launching a challenge though the lava flow campground boat ramp is open.
DESCHUTES RIVER:
Sherars Falls to Warm Springs n Trout anglers will be successful by using nymphs. Water temperatures continue to cool and fewer bug hatches are occurring. Steelhead are in this section in good numbers and water temperatures and clarity are great for steelhead fishing. The entire Deschutes River closed Oct. 31 to the retention of Fall Chinook.
Mouth to Sherars Falls n Steelhead anglers are reporting decent catches, as effort on the river has declined significantly. Many large B-run steelhead are being captured, especially in the area downstream from Macks Canyon. The entire Deschutes River closed Oct. 31 to the retention of Fall Chinook.
Spring Chinook:
No recent report.
DESCHUTES RIVER: Lake Billy Chinook to Benham Falls:
No anglers were interviewed as basis for a report. Please note that recent increased flow makes this stretch a little more of a challenge for anglers.
ELK LAKE: brook trout, kokanee
No recent report.
FALL RIVER:
Anglers are reporting fair to good success. Remember angling is closed downstream the falls.
FROG LAKE: rainbow trout
No new report.
HAYSTACK RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, brown trout
Fishing is reported to be a little on the slow side.
HOOD RIVER: summer steelhead, fin clipped coho
Steelhead fishing has been improving on the Hood River, as cooler temperatures have improved water quality. Anglers are reminded that chinook angling is closed and coho must be fin-clipped for retention. Trout fishing is closed.
LAKE BILLY CHINOOK: Bull trout, brown trout, rainbow trout, kokanee, smallmouth bass
Angling is slow for bull trout. A few anglers are having some success for rainbow trout and brown trout on the Deschutes River arm. Please note that the Metolius arm of the reservoir is closed to angling for the season beginning Nov. 1. Anglers should be advised that the recommended boat launching facility is the upper Deschutes arm ramp of the reservoir.
LAURANCE LAKE: rainbow trout, smallmouth bass
Closes to angling as of Nov. 1.
LITTLE LAVA LAKE: rainbow trout
No report
LOST LAKE: rainbow trout
Lost Lake has been stocked with legal and trophy sized hatchery rainbow trout. Some naturally produced brown trout are also available for anglers. Anglers should focus on the shallower shoal areas for best success.
METOLIUS RIVER:
Reports of anglers having fair success for brown trout and mountain whitefish.
NORTH TWIN: rainbow trout
No report
OCHOCO RESERVOIR: rainbow trout
No recent reports. Anglers targeting rainbow trout should consider fishing the upper eastern end of reservoir.
PINE HOLLOW RESERVOIR: rainbow trout
No recent reports, but fall and early winter fishing can be productive at Pine Hollow.
PRINEVILLE RESERVOIR: rainbow trout
Opportunity is good for 12 to 16 rainbow trout. No reports on recent angler success.
ROCK CREEK RESERVOIR: rainbow trout
Low reservoir level will limit both access and success.
SUTTLE LAKE:
No recent reports.
WALTON LAKE: rainbow trout
No recent reports.
CENTRAL ZONE HUNTING
Visit the region's Fall Hunting Forecast
http://www.dfw.state.or.us/RR/hunting_forecast/2007_fall_high_desert.asp
Open: Chukar, duck, goose, California quail, mt quail (open in Wheeler, Hood Rvr and Wasco counties) cougar, crow
Ochoco Wildlife District
General: Snow is present at higher elevations, and conditions can be icy and treacherous. Hunters need to be equipped to handle unpredictable winter conditions. Hunters are reminded the motorized access restrictions associated with the South Boundary Green Dot Travel Management Area (TMA) in the Ochoco unit remain in effect year around. Maps are available at portal signs as you enter the TMA, or from local ODFW and forest service offices. Additionally areas on the Ochoco National Forest and Prineville BLM have motorized access restrictions which went in effect on Dec. 1 to pevent soil damage and protect wintering antelope, deer, and elk. Maps of these areas are available from forest service and BLM offices in Prineville.
Prineville Reservoir Wildlife Management Area: The area is open to non-motorized access only to protect wintering deer and elk and prevent soil damage. Non-motorized access from hunters, anglers, and other outdoor enthusiasts is welcome.
Cougar: Deer have been moving to lower elevation winter ranges and cougar can be expected to follow. Winter ranges include private lands and hunters need permission prior to hunting.
Valley quail: Numbers appear strong, with the best opportunities on agricultural private lands throughout Crook and Jefferson Counties. Springs, stream areas, and other rangelands with cover and water on the Crooked River National Grasslands and BLM lands would also be good area to check.
Chukar are more limited in distribution, with areas along the Crooked, Deschutes, and John Day Rivers offering the best opportunities. Much of this involves private lands where permission from the landowner is needed.
Waterfowl: Recent storms have brought some migratory birds to the region. Access is a challenge as most of the better hunting is on private lands. There are limited opportunities on public land around Prineville Res., and along the Crooked River.
The Dalles Wildlife District
Hunters wishing to pursue cougar should focus their efforts in areas where big game populations are found. The boundary between the White River Wildlife area and the Mount Hood National forest can provide good opportunity.
Grouse wing barrels are scattered around the White River and Hood units to collect wings of blue and ruffed grouse and mt. quail. We ask each successful hunter to contribute a wing and tail off of each harvested bird.
Waterfowl season is now open within the district. The majority of waterfowl hunting opportunities are present on private lands, with a few exceptions along the Columbia and Deschutes rivers.
Upland game birds are found throughout the district. Bird production was fair in the area this year, with populations being at or near the ten year average. Hunters wishing to target quail should focus on areas in and around streams or near agricultural areas. Public access can be found on the Lower Deschutes and White River Wildlife areas, as well as BLM property in the Deschutes and John Day canyons. Hunters should be aware that bird hunting is prohibited within ¼ mile of the John Day River from the Columbia upstream to Thirtymile Creek.
CENTRAL ZONE VIEWING
EVENTS
Join in the Christmas Bird Count!
Oregon's Christmas Bird Count; Dec. 14 through Jan. 5
Birders of all experience levels are invited. It's great fun, as well as a way to improve your birding skills, find new places to go birding and meet other birders. If you can't join the field teams, take part by counting the birds in your yard.
Antelope Christmas Bird Count, Saturday, December 15
Contact Pete Weigel, (541) 489-3280 or (206) 819-3821, antelope@oregonvos.net
Meet at compiler's house, corner of Maupin and College Sts. in Antelope.
Bend Christmas Bird Count, Saturday, December 15
Contact Tom Crabtree, (541) 388-2462, tc@empnet.com
Meet 7:00 a.m. (earlier if you want breakfast), Outpost Restaurant, 201 W. Main St.
Contact Tom for directions.
Biggs, Rufus, and John Day Dam, OR and Columbia Hills-Klickitat Valley, WA
Christmas Bird Count, Saturday, December 29
Contact Stuart Johnston, (509) 493-3363 between 6 p.m. and 9 p.m.
Hood River Christmas Bird Count, Sunday, December 30
Contact Catherine Flick, (509) 493-1195, stewart@gorge.net
Meet 6:30 a.m. at the Best Western in Hood River (exit 64 off Interstate 84).
Prineville Christmas Bird Count, Monday, December 31
Contact Charles Gates, (541) 923-1320, cgates@empnet.com
Meet 7:00 a.m. at McDonalds in Prineville.
Redmond, Christmas Bird Count, Sunday, December 23
Contact Kimdel Owen, (541) 771-6558, kimdelo@yahoo.com
Santiam Pass Christmas Bird Count, Tuesday, January 1
Contact Steve Shunk, (541) 408-1753, steve@paradisebirding.com
Sisters Christmas Bird Count, Sunday, December 16
Steve Shunk, (541) 408-1753, steve@paradisebirding.com
Contact the compiler.
The Dalles, Rowena, and Mosier, Ore and Lyle, Wa Christmas Bird Count, Sunday, December 16
Contact Bob Hansen, (509) 637-2736, bobhansen@gorge.net
Contact the compiler.
The Audubon Christmas Bird Count is the oldest and largest citizen science event in the world. For over a hundred years, people have gathered together during the winter holiday season to count birds. Citizen science is recognized as an important component of the Oregon Conservation Strategy, http://www.dfw.state.or.us/conservationstrategy/
For more information on Christmas Bird Counts, visit the Portland Audubon Web site, http://www.audubonportland.org/events/christmas_bird_count/cbc2007
National Audubon Society's Web site, http://www.audubon.org/bird/cbc/getinvolved.html
December Wildlife Viewing
UPDATED: Freezing weather has arrived in parts of Central Oregon and most small ponds and water holes are frozen and snow blankets the ground at higher elevation. Deer are on winter ranges, winter raptors are at their usual feeding areas and waterbirds are confined to open water areas.
Mule deer are on their winter range and a good place to observe them is the Fort Rock Valley south to Silver Lake and east to Christmas Valley. Herds of five to twenty deer or more are commonly seen. This area is also excellent for winter raptors. Agricultural lands and shrub land on the edge of the forest are good places to look for rough-legged hawks, red-tailed hawks, golden and bald eagles and prairie falcons. The wintering population of Red-tailed Hawks has more individual with dark phase plumage than is seen in the summer. A good field guide is helpful in sorting out the color phases of the raptors.
Winter range road closures are in effect on National Forests and BLM lands of Central Oregon starting December 1. Main roads are open but side roads and less traveled roads may be closed to vehicle travel. Watch for signs and report violations to the nearest Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife or Oregon State Police office.
Prineville Area
This is a good time to view wintering big game, including mule deer, pronghorn and elk on private lands along the Crooked River between the eastern end of Prineville Reservoir, to the town of Paulina, and north and east around Puett Rd. to the Paulina Ranger Station. Drivers need to turn south off of Hwy. 26 at the east side of Prineville, onto the Post/Paulina highway, with the best viewing between milepost 20 and milepost 60. Approximately 4 miles east of Paulina proceed north to Paulina Ranger Station via Puett Road. Bring binoculars or a spotting scope for antelope and elk using the western slopes of Powell Mountain.
Animals are generally most visible in early morning or late afternoon, and drivers need to be careful of animals crossing the highway. This is approximately 180 miles round trip from Prineville and drivers should be prepared for winter driving conditions. In addition to big game, viewers will have opportunities to see coyotes, waterfowl, and a wide variety of birds of prey including bald and golden eagles, prairie falcon, red tail and rough leg hawks.
Migrating birds
Local reservoirs offer viewing of waterfowl and shorebirds as they feed and rest.. The wildlife management area at the east of Prineville Reservoir is closed to motorized access, but walk-in access is encouraged. Park at the gate where the north-side access road meets the Paulina Hwy. and walk in along the river. Ochoco Reservoir is visible from Hwy. 26, eight miles east of Prineville. Migrating and wintering birds of prey are on the increase with sightings of red-tailed, rough-legged, and Swainsons Hawks; Northern Harriers; bald and golden Eagle; prairie falcon; and Kestrels common.
The Crooked River between Bowman Dam and Prineville offers spectacular cliff scenery interspersed with close views of the Crooked River. Bald and golden eagles frequent this stretch of river and use the cliffs and pine trees for perching and roosting. Otter, beaver, raccoons and a variety of waterfowl and wading birds are also present in the river.
Madras Area
Haystack Reservoir, 12 miles southeast of Madras, still has open water and last week local birders reported a good variety of waterbirds including five species of grebes, western, pied-bill, horned, eared, and red-necked. A few snow geese and a white-fronted goose were also reported from the same area. Since waterfowl hunting season is open, look for ducks and geese in the center of lake away from the shoreline.
The Dalles, Mid-Columbia Region and Northern Wasco County
As the temperature drops and the snow starts to fall, White River Wildlife Area begins to see migrating deer and elk. Visitors wishing to view wintering deer are best served in the Smock Prairie area, where deer will congregate in open meadows to feed, while those wishing to view elk are more likely to be successful in the Friend area.
Directions to the White River Wildlife Area, http://www.dfw.state.or.us/wildlifearea/whiteriver.htm
FISHING
Trout fishing closed in streams (including tidewaters and bays) on Oct. 31, unless otherwise noted in regulations.
Winter conditions exist in Lake and Klamath County. Access is difficult; paved roads will be frozen with snow drifts on north facing slopes, primitive roads will alternate between frozen to muddy depending on weather conditions. Desert Reservoirs, Creeks and the High Lakes are icing up. Ice fishing opportunities will be available late winter.
This report updated Dec. 10, 2007
ANA RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, hybrid bass
Ana Reservoir will be open all year long for rainbow trout and hybrid bass. Fishing is still good for Rainbow trout, but no reports of successful catch reports for hybrid bass have been received. Most anglers fish from shore on the east shoreline. Juvenile hybrid bass have been stocked. Night fishing for hybrid bass is slow.
ANA RIVER: rainbow trout
Ana River is open year long and water temperatures tend to stay warmer due to spring input out of Ana Reservoir. This is a great place to fish during late fall and winter. Angling for rainbow trout has been good. The river level is high. Rainbow trout can be very spooky so stealth is required. Bait angling is allowed and productive. Expect good hatches of various mayflies during cloudy weather. Tui chub and pit roach are abundant minnows in Ana River therefore LARGE minnow lures/flies can catch the larger rainbow trout while not catching as many little fingerling rainbow trout.
BEULAH RESERVOIR: redband trout, whitefish, bull trout
The reservoir went dry on Aug. 31. The reservoir is 12 percent full and inflow was 34 cfs on December 9. Ice is beginning to form around the perimeter of the pool. Fishing is poor.
BIG ROCK RESERVOIR: rainbow trout
Big Rock Reservoir is now frozen, access is difficult.
BLITZEN RIVER: trout
Catch and release angling from Nov. 1 through the end of May. Angling should be fair for redband trout. The water has cooled down, and there may be some edge ice. Flow fluctuated between 12 and 53 cfs from November 30 through December 7. Flow was 42 cfs December 7.
BULLY CREEK RESERVOIR: bass, white crappie, yellow perch, catfish, and trout.
The reservoir is 11 percent full on December 9. Ice is beginning to form around perimeter. Angling is poor.
BURNS POND: trout, bass
The pond is covered with thin ice.
CAMPBELL/DEADHORSE: rainbow trout and brook trout
Both lakes are frozen solid. Access is difficult (snow drifts).
CHICKAHOMINY RESERVOIR: trout
The lake has some open water after recent warmer temperatures and high winds. Angling will be fair to good for 14-18 inch rainbow trout as long as the water stays open. Ice fishing should be good later this winter.
CHEWAUCAN RIVER: redband trout
Angling is closed below Paisley. Angling is slow for redband trout above Paisley. Much of the river is frozen.
COTTONWOOD MEADOWS LAKE: Rainbow trout and brook trout
The lake is frozen with only a small area in the center free of ice. Access is still open, but accumulates snow drifts in many areas quickly.
COTTONWOOD RESERVOIR: redband trout
Angling for redband trout is slow. Angling with bait from the dam is a popular method. This is a large impoundment so covering lots of water while trolling from a boat can be productive. Fat head minnows occur in the lake therefore flies and lures which mimic minnows produce well. Access to the reservoir is still open but expect cold water temperatures and windy conditions.
DELINTMENT LAKE: trout
Recent snow may make access to the lake difficult. The lake is covered with thin ice.
DEEP CREEK: redband trout
Angling has slowed due to cold water temperatures.
DOG LAKE: largemouth bass, yellow perch, black crappie, brown bullhead
The warm water fishery at Dog Lake has declined with cold weather and will continue to be poor until spring and warmer temperatures.
DUNCAN RESERVOIR: rainbow trout
The reservoir is still free of ice and accessible. Sheets of ice are forming but gone by late morning. Hatchery stocked rainbow trout are available and more interested in biting during warm up periods
FISH LAKE (Steens Mountain): brook trout, rainbow trout
The north loop road is closed for the winter. The lake is covered with thin ice.
FOURMILE LAKE: kokanee, lake trout, rainbow trout, brook trout
Access to Fourmile Lake is blocked by snow. The lake should freeze soon. The lake is accessible by snowmobile
GERBER RESERVOIR: crappie, yellow perch, brown bullhead and largemouth bass
Angling for crappie is slow. Most crappie are in the 8-10 inch range but larger crappie are available. The best method is to fish a crappie jig under a bobber. Yellow perch angling has been slow. Lake levels are high therefore boats can be launched. Angling for brown bullhead is slow. For more information on warmwater fishing in Gerber Reservoir and other Warmwater fisheries visit your local ODFW offices for warmwater fishing pamphlets. The reservoir is still ice free and access is good.
HOLBROOK RESERVOIR: rainbow trout
Access is open. The reservoir is partially frozen over.
JUNIPER LAKE: cutthroat trout
The lake almost went dry this year, so the trout population was lost.
UPPER KLAMATH AND AGENCY LAKE: redband trout and yellow perch
The lake is mostly frozen. Angling for redband trout has slowed. Redband trout have reduced activity but can still be captured using slower presentations with flies and lures. Redband trout are scattered throughout the lake. Flyfishing and lure fishing can be productive as redband trout begin to feed actively on minnows after a long summer of reduced food consumption. Angling has been slowed from shore near Sesti Tgwalls point and Howard Bay. Catch rates are typically one fish per ten hours of fishing.
KLAMATH RIVER: rainbow-redband trout
Angling for wild redband trout has slowed down. River flows remain below 1000 cfs below Keno dam which is ideal for successful angling. Water temperature has cooled down to 36 degrees which will slow catch rates. Wading below Keno dam is difficult as the water is turbid and the substrate is made of slick boulders. A wading staff, studded wading boots, and wading belt is recommended. Flies and lures imitating minnows are producing well. To be successful flies and lures should be fished slow and deep. Angling below JC Boyle Powerhouse is fair due to flow fluctuations. River flows below the Powerhouse will be 1800 cfs during most of the daylight hours which creates difficult angling conditions; however some trout can be captured in the shallow, slow moving water near shore using spinners. Redband- rainbow trout are concentrated so covering lots of water will increase your odds of catching fish. The best time to angle is early morning 7-9 am. The river section from JC Boyle Dam to JC Boyle Powerhouse is fair for rainbow-redband trout 6-12 inches. River flows in this section are a constant 380 cfs. Small spinners and flies are the most effective method for catching rainbow- redband trout in this section. The Klamath River provides one of the best opportunities to fish for trout during the fall and winter.
LAKE OF THE WOODS: rainbow trout, kokanee, brown trout, yellow perch, brown bullhead, largemouth bass, crappie, and smallmouth bass
Lake of the Woods is beginning to freeze. Angling is slow for all species of fish. Ice fishing will be good for yellow perch later this winter. Contact Lake of the Woods Lodge at (1-866-201-4194) for recent angling update.
LINK RIVER: redband trout
Angling is slow as water temperatures are 32 degrees. Most anglers use lures and flies that mimic minnows. Access is available along the entire west side and boats can be launched at Veterans Park and motored upstream to the powerhouse. Catch rates are typically low and a good day is landing a few redband trout. The Link River is open year long.
LITTLE HEART LAKE: rainbow trout, kokanee
Access is open but fishing is slow, large trout are available as are kokanee. Access is open.
LOFTON RESERVOIR: rainbow trout
Larger fish are still available in the lake. The Reservoir is low, launching from the boat ramp is difficult. Access is open, but the lake is beginning to freeze.
LOST RIVER: largemouth bass, yellow perch, pumpkinseed sunfish, crappie, bullhead catfish
Angling has been slow for warm water game fish.
LUCKY RESERVOIR: rainbow trout
Access is open, expect the road to be muddy and difficult unless frozen. Angling is slow. The reservoir is always very turbid, and beginning to freeze.
MALHEUR RIVER (Warm Springs Reservoir downstream to South Fork Malheur River): redband trout and hatchery rainbow trout
Flow is very low in this stretch of the river is since there is little or no discharge from Warm Springs Reservoir. Discharge from Warm Springs Reservoir was 0 cfs on December 9. Angling is poor.
MALHEUR RIVER (from the South Fork Malheur River near Riverside, downstream to Gold Creek): redband trout and hatchery rainbow trout
Flow is very low in this stretch of the river since there is little or no discharge from Warm Springs Reservoir or Beulah Reservoir. Discharge from Warm Springs Reservoir was approximately 0 cfs, and discharge from Beulah Reservoir was 0 cfs on December 9. Angling is poor.
MALHEUR RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout
Ice is beginning to form on the reservoir. Ice is not thick enough to support any weight. The boat ramp is still in water. Water releases were shut-off in late September. Trout angling is poor.
MALHEUR RIVER, NORTH FORK: redband trout, whitefish, and bull trout
No recent angling report. Remember to release bull trout.
MALHEUR RIVER, MIDDLE FORK: redband trout, brook trout, and bull trout
No recent angling report. Remember to release bull trout.
MALONE RESERVOIR (Lost River): yellow, brown and black bullhead
Angling for yellow, brown and black bullhead is slow. Angling for sunfish and largemouth bass is slow.
MANN LAKE: trout
No angling report available. The lake should be covered by thin ice.
MILLER LAKE: large brown trout, rainbow trout and small kokanee, brook trout
Access into Miller Lake is blocked by snow.
MOON RESERVOIR: bass, trout
The reservoir is very low. Trout and bass angling are slow. No report on ice conditions.
NORTH MALHEUR BLM STOCK PONDS: rainbow trout.
Roads are expected to freeze over the next week. The reservoirs should also have a thin layer of ice on them. Angling is expected to be poor.
OWYHEE RESERVOIR: largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, black crappie, yellow perch, catfish.
The reservoir was 23 percent full December 9. The county ramp near the powerhouse and the ramp at the resort are still useable the other three are not. Angling is slow.
OWYHEE RIVER (Lower): brown trout and hatchery rainbow trout
Irrigation releases below the dam were shut-off on Oct. 12. Brown Trout are still spawning so anglers need to be careful around spawning areas to protect redds. Angling for rainbow trout and brown trout is slow.
OWYHEE RIVER (Upper): smallmouth bass and channel catfish
Discharge at the Rome gauge averaged approximately 160 cfs on December 9. Angling for smallmouth and channel catfish is slow.
PAIUTE RESERVOIR: rainbow trout and Lahontan cutthroat trout
Sheets of ice are forming but open waters exist. The reservoir is still accessible. Angling has been slow recently. Lahontan Cutthroat trout and Rainbow trout are available.
PHILLIPS RESERVOIR: trout, perch
Fishing has been fair for trout and perch. Ice is forming but not safe yet. Water level is at 9 percent.
PILCHER RESERVOIR: trout
Fishing is slow. Water levels are very low.
POLE CREEK RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout
The water level at Pole Creek Reservoir is very near minimums. The reservoir is almost entirely covered with a thin layer of ice. Trout angling is poor.
POWDER RIVER: trout, spring chinook
Fishing for rainbow trout is closed from HuntingtonnRichland road bridge to Hughes Lane bridge in Baker City. Above Hughes Lane to Phillips Reservoir is open to catch and release, and use of artificial flies and lures only.
SHERLOCK GULCH RESERVOIR: rainbow trout
Sheets of ice are forming, the reservoir is still accessible. Angling is slow, and this is a consistently turbid reservoir.
SID LUCE RESERVOIR: rainbow trout
Access to the reservoir is always difficult and not recommended at this time. Fishing has been slow, expect windy conditions, as they occur most of the time. Rainbow trout appear to be concentrated near the outlet. Road conditions have been muddy, expect travel to be difficult unless frozen.
SNAKE RIVER: catfish and smallmouth bass
Angling for catfish and smallmouth bass is fair. See Snake River zone for more information.
SOUTH MALHEUR BLM STOCK PONDS: hatchery rainbow trout.
Roads are expected to freeze over the next week. The reservoirs should also have a thin layer of ice on them. Angling is expected to be poor.
SPAULDING RESERVOIR: rainbow trout
Spaulding Reservoir is dry.
SUNSTONE RESERVOIR: rainbow trout
Sunstone Reservoir is dry.
THIEF VALLEY RESERVOIR: trout
The reservoir is filling but fishing is expected to be slow for a few months. Fingerlings were stocked in October.
THOMPSON RESERVOIR: largemouth bass, rainbow trout
Angling is slow for largemouth bass and rainbow trout. The reservoir will begin to freeze in the near future.
TOPSY RESERVOIR: largemouth bass, crappie, brown bullhead, pumpkinseed sunfish
The reservoir is ice free. Angling for warmwater fish is slow. Look for largemouth bass in the shallow backwater areas near J.C. Boyle Dam or near the Klamath River. Fishing from a boat is more productive for largemouth bass and crappie than angling from shore. Angling with bait from shore can be productive for catching brown bullhead. Sunfish can be caught from shore using small bait under bobbers or small flies.
UNITY RESERVOIR: trout, bass, crappie
No recent report. Ice has formed on the reservoir but it is not safe yet. The water level is rising which makes ice unstable.
WARM SPRINGS RESERVOIR: smallmouth bass, white crappie, catfish, perch, and hatchery rainbow trout
The reservoir is 5 percent full, inflow at the Drewsey gauge averaged 45 cfs on December 9. Fishing is poor.
WARNER LAKES (Hart, Crump, Flagstaff, etc.): crappie, brown bullhead, largemouth bass
The Warner Lakes/Crump fisheries are still suffering from low water. Crump went dry this summer but is increasing with recent precipitation. Hart Lake and the Warner series of lakes retained sufficient water to winter Crappie. Expect catch rates to increase next spring with warmer temperatures and larger Crappie.
WILLOW VALLEY RESERVOIR: largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, yellow perch and Lahontan cutthroat
The reservoir is ice free. Angling has been slow for all species. Look for crappie and bass around the many wood and habitat structures in the reservoir. Lahontan cutthroat are available but rare in the catch. The most effective way to fish Willow Valley is from boat but largemouth bass can be captured at the boat ramp and all along the dam. Launching a boat is difficult due to low water levels. Recent sampling has shown largemouth bass and bluegill to be abundant in the reservoir. Most bluegill are small. Black crappie are common and in the 8-10" range. The yellow perch population has decreased substantially and not worth angling for.
WOLF CREEK RESERVOIR: crappie, trout
No recent report. Reservoir is very low. Ice fishing can be good later in the winter, but ice has not covered reservoir yet.
YELLOWJACKET LAKE: trout
The lake is still accessible by four-wheel-drive vehicle. The lake is covered with thin ice.
SOUTHEAST ZONE HUNTING
Visit the region's Fall Hunting Forecast
http://www.dfw.state.or.us/RR/hunting_forecast/2007_fall_high_desert.asp
Open: Chukar, duck, cougar, crow, California quail, mt. quail (open in Klamath County)
NEW LANDS OPEN TO HUNT: More than 42,000 acres of private land in Malheur and Harney counties is now open to public hunting access, thanks to ODFW's Access and Habitat Program. More information:
http://www.dfw.state.or.us/news/2007/November/110107.asp
COUGAR
Cougar populations are healthy in the Southeast zone. Snow should help improve hunting conditions.
COYOTE
Any area with wintering deer will provide good opportunity for coyote calling. The Grenada butte and Chicken hills area have a lot of coyote sign in the recent snow and would be a good place to try. Hunters should be aware that cougars will respond to predator calls. In order to harvest a cougar you need a valid tag and be using a .22 caliber or larger center fire rifle.
UPLAND BIRDS
The Malheur River and Owhyee River corridors are the best areas in Malheur County, in Lake County the best areas are Abert Rim, Coleman Rim and Guano Rim-chukar numbers are down from last year due to poor hatch success. Most quail are on private land and hunters will need to obtain permission before hunting. Hunters should focus on permanent springs and seeps that still have water.
Years of dry conditions are sending some hunters to Klamath Wildlife Area's Miller Island Unit on the WA because the waterfowl habitat also provides good cover for upland birds.
WATERFOWL
Duck and goose hunting on the Snake River and major reservoirs in Malheur County should be fair for local birds. In Lake County, best areas are Warner Valley, Abert Lake and Summer Lake Wildlife Area.
Duck hunting in the Klamath Basin is fair and best hunting will be in areas with open water including Lost River, Sprague River and Klamath River. Many ponds and area wetlands froze over last week resulting in many birds continuing south or finding open water areas.
Goose hunting in the Klamath Basin is closed until December 22. Goose hunting should improve once the season reopens dependant on weather conditions.
KLAMATH WILDLIFE AREA
Winter freeze-up of pond units on Miller Island has occurred and this usually signals an end to duck hunting. As long as the Klamath River remains open (unfrozen), occasional ducks may provide a pass-shooting opportunity on Miller Island. All goose hunting is closed in Klamath County from Nov. 26 to Dec. 21. Goose hunting should improve after the first of the year as migrating geese enter the basin and resident geese become more accessible.
Hunting permits are required on the Miller Island Unit for all hunters and are available at the checkstation located on Miller Island. Hunt days are odd days in December, and even days in January. Free daily hunting permits are available at the checkstation on hunt days. All units on the Miller Island Unit are open to hunting utilizing self-service permits set out for hunters with no limit on hunter numbers. All units on Miller Island Unit are open for hunting all day on hunt days. Permits must be carried while in the field hunting and check-out is mandatory.
Shoalwater Bay Unit, Sesti Tgawaals Unit, and the Gorr Island Unit are open to public hunting seven days a week without a permit.
Please remember to have current year HIP, Upland game bird and/or waterfowl validations prior to arriving.
Overnight camping is not allowed on the Miller Island Unit.
Please contact Klamath Wildlife Area at (541) 883-5734 or email lanny.a.fujishin@state.or.us for additional information.
SUMMER LAKE WILDLIFE AREA
Daily hunting permits are required of all hunters and are available at the Checking Station located 1.3 miles south of the town of Summer Lake. Free daily hunting permits are available self serve in the Checking Station lobby 24 hours a day and Check-out is mandatory!
Ninth week of the season waterfowl hunting was fair due to favorable weather conditions most of the week. However, duck and goose season closures resulted in low hunter participation. Daily bird per hunter averages ranged from a high of 2.73 on Friday (when duck season reopened) to a low of 0.25 on Monday. Weather conditions were extremely variable during the week with very high winds Monday and Tuesday followed by rain showers on Thursday. Moderate winds and overcast skies returned on Friday and Saturday and then turned and clear, calm and cold on Sunday High winds stripped nearly all the ice of the Area by mid-week but on Sunday a majority of wetlands returned to frozen over conditions. Freeze-up caused ducks to concentrate in remaining open areas and to increase their feeding activity. Eighty-one (81) hunters checked-in for the week, up 11.0% from the same week last year. Hunters averaged 1.60 birds per hunter for the week, which was down -20.1% from the same week last year due primarily to reduced California quail harvest.
Total duck harvest (106; primarily mallards, gadwall, and bufflehead) was up 5.0% compared to last year, while goose harvest did not occur due to the closure. A total of 1 American coot, no ring-necked pheasants and 8 California quail were harvested during the week.
On Dec. 6, about 9,900 ducks and 670 geese were counted on the Area, similar to the previous week. Another count will be conducted this week (Dec. 12) and results will be posted on the department website and Wildlife Area telephone answering machine by the weekend.
Last weeks' count showed duck and goose population fairly stable and at a moderate level for this time of the year. Most birds have moved south towards wintering areas in California. As cold conditions persist, it is expected bird numbers will continue to decline with the exception of Canada geese that may show increasing numbers. Birds were scattered across the Wildlife Area due to open water conditions and because of the duck and goose closures.
GOOSE HUNTING SEASONS REMAIN CLOSED THROUGH THE MIDDLE OF THE WEEK AND WILL RE OPEN ON THURSDAY DECEMBER 13TH IN LAKE, HARNEY AND MALHEUR COUNTIES.
Due to declining bird numbers and winter-like conditions, hunting success should continue to be only fair to poor unless favorable conditions prevail. As winter sets in, freezing conditions will occur and still, open water areas will ice over. Favorable weather conditions (storms with wind) will be needed to increase hunter success, especially for ducks. Canada goose hunting should improve with the cold and frozen conditions that usually push more birds onto the Area. Hunters using decoys and willing to spend most of the day in the marsh should see good results. Pass shooting will continue be very slow and unproductive during this time due to low bird numbers.
Wetland habitat conditions have changed dramatically across the entire Wildlife Area. Nearly all units are again frozen over and will remain that way unless temperatures moderate and/or strong winds prevail. Ana River, canals and channels of moving water, especially those below water control structures should remain open. Snow cover is absent, so above ground food sources remain available to many species. Moderate afternoon temperatures allow for thawing that increases food availability along wetland margins.
Hunters are reminded that the Link Marsh area will be held dry during the entire hunting season due to ongoing marsh management activities. The River Ranch unit is being drawndown at this time in preparation for habitat enhancement activities to occur in 2008. Though hunters might see a short-term impact to their regular hunting spot because of the work, these habitat improvements occurring on areas of Summer Lake over several years will improve conditions for waterfowl and for hunters over the long term.
Pheasant season is now CLOSED. Quail seasons remain open through January 31, 2008 and fair numbers can be found predominantly in upland habitats in the north portion of the Wildlife Area. These areas provide excellent grass and shrub cover and an abundance of natural and planted foods. Hunters, especially those using dogs should find fair success in most areas.
Please remember to have current year HIP, Upland game bird and/or waterfowl validations prior to arriving. Permits must be carried while in the field hunting and check-out is mandatory. Hunters can check-out by filling out the number of birds harvested and hours hunted and dropping off their permits in boxes located at each campground and major access areas.
Camping is available at four sites located on the Area. Campgrounds are primitive but each has vault toilets, trash barrels and a few picnic tables.
Please contact Summer Lake Wildlife Area at (541) 943-3152 or email martin.j.stlouis@state.or.us or jason.a.journey@state.or.us for additional information.
SOUTHEAST ZONE VIEWING
EVENTS
Join in the Christmas Bird Count!
Oregon's Christmas Bird Count; Dec. 14 through Jan. 5
Birders of all experience levels are invited. It's great fun, as well as a way to improve your birding skills, find new places to go birding and meet other birders. If you can't join the field teams, take part by counting the birds in your yard.
Burns-Hines Christmas Bird Count, Friday, December 14
Contact Rick Vetter, (541) 573-5601 (h) or 573-4369 (w), rvetter@fs.fed.us
Participants will meet at the Forest Service Office in Hines (265 Hwy.20 South) at 6:30 a.m.
Hart Mountain Christmas Bird Count, Saturday, January 5
Contacts: Marla Bennett, marla_bennett@fws.gov
Craig and Marilyn Miller, (541) 389-9115, goosemiller@msn.com
Contact organizers ahead of time. Meet 7:00 a.m. at refuge headquarters. Free lodging for count participants.
Klamath Falls Christmas Bird Count, Saturday, December 15
Contact Kevin Spencer, (541) 884-5739, rriparia@charter.net
Frenchglen Count Christmas Bird Count, Saturday, December 15
Cal or Alice Elshoff, (541) 495-2322, calice@highdesertair.com
Participants will meet at Cal and Alice Elshoff's house 3 miles east of Frenchglen at 7:00 am.
Sodhous-Malheur NWR Christmas Bird Count, Sunday, December 16
Contact Duncan Evered and Lyla Messick, (541) 493-2629
Participants will meet at the Malheur Field Station located 25 miles south of Burns at 7:00 a.m.
Summer Lake 21st Annual Christmas Bird Count, Tuesday, December 18
Contacts: Marty St. Louis, (541) 943-3180(h) or 943-3152(w), martin.j.stlouis@state.or.us
On average, about 80 species and nearly 10,000 birds are found in the diverse habitats found within the count circle. Participants will meet at Summer Lake Wildlife Area Headquarters at 7:30 a.m. to form counting groups. For more information, participants can call the Wildlife Area (541-943-3152) or e-mail count compilers martin.j.stlouis@state.or.us or jason.a.journey@state.or.us
The Audubon Christmas Bird Count is the oldest and largest citizen science event in the world. For over a hundred years, people have gathered together during the winter holiday season to count birds. Citizen science is recognized as an important component of the Oregon Conservation Strategy, http://www.dfw.state.or.us/conservationstrategy/
For more information on Christmas Bird Counts, visit the Portland Audubon Web site, http://www.audubonportland.org/events/christmas_bird_count/cbc2007
National Audubon Society's Web site, http://www.audubon.org/bird/cbc/getinvolved.html
Klamath Falls Area
NEW: Colder weather has reduced open water in the basin pushing most of the waterfowl out of the area and concentrating the remaining birds along the rivers. The Link River connecting Klamath Lake to Lake Euwana is an excellent waterfowl viewing area during freezing weather. A good hiking trail follows the west side of the link river and can be access from Moore Park.
Bald eagles numbers will continue to increase as they migrate into the lower Klamath Basin from northern nesting areas. Good viewing areas are in the vicinity of Township Road and Stateline Roads where they can be found scavenging on sick or dead waterfowl. Also look for rough-legged hawks in agricultural areas.
White-headed woodpecker, Lewis' woodpecker, red-shafted flicker and many other passerine (perching) birds can be found within Moore Park located on the south end of Upper Klamath Lake just outside Klamath Falls.
Klamath Wildlife Area
Waterfowl seasons are now underway and hunting will occurs on odd days in December, and even days in January. Best viewing opportunities will be on non-hunt days at the Miller Island Unit. Good viewing of raptors is available including northern harrier, kestrel, red-tailed hawk, bald eagle and rough-legged hawk. Most shorebirds have already migrated south towards wintering areas in California.
Ponds have frozen at this time, and subsequently, most waterfowl viewing has ended until the northern migration begins in February.
The Wildlife Area is located four miles south of Klamath Falls. For directions and more information, visit the ODFW Web site. www.dfw.state.or.us/wildlifearea/klamath_wa.htm
Lake County and Lakeview Area
NEW: Waterfowl are abundant at this time with Tundra Swans present in good numbers on all the major wetlands. Common raptors wintering throughout the county are present including rough-legged hawks, harriers, red-tail hawks and golden eagles. Most migrating shorebirds and passerines have moved through the county to winter ranges south of Oregon. Best viewing opportunities are along the Warner Valley lakes, Goose Lake at Goose Lake State Park and along the shores of Lake Abert. Resident and migrating raptors can be viewed throughout the Goose Lake and Warner Valleys.
Summer Lake Wildlife Area
This section was updated on December 11, 2007.
Note: Though many areas remain open to viewing, with waterfowl hunting season in progress, this is not the most ideal time to visit Summer Lake to view wildlife. Refuge areas are closed to all entry during hunting seasons.
Wildlife viewers are permitted to access the Viewing Blind situated adjacent to the Schoolhouse Lake Refuge to observe migrant waterbirds. Hunting is not allowed in this area. The Wildlife Viewing Loop and major dike roads are closed and will remain that way through the end of General Waterfowl Hunting Season.
The 21st Annual Summer Lake Christmas Bird Count will take place on Tuesday December 18, 2007. On average, about 80 species and nearly 10,000 birds are found in the diverse habitats found within the count circle. Participants will meet at Summer Lake Wildlife Area Headquarters at 7:30 a.m. to form counting groups. For more information, participants can call the Wildlife Area (541-943-3152) or email count compilers (martin.j.stlouis@state.or.us or jason.a.journey@state.or.us).
Waterfowl
Ducks remain fairly numerous although many have migrated south with the recent cold and freezing weather conditions. They remain widely scattered across the Area, predominantly in Refuges. Nearly all ducks have completed their molt and are in their bright and colorful nuptial plumage commonly seen during winter. Many species are beginning to form pairs and some courtship activity has been evident.
Resident Canada goose flocks are dispersed widely across the Wildlife Area and adjacent private lands. They can be found in most wetlands and hayed meadows in the surrounding area. Nearly all migrant arctic nesting geese (snow, Ross' and greater white-fronted) have departed to California wintering grounds. The last weekly waterfowl count (Dec. 6) found less than 100 using the Wildlife Area at that time. It is expected very few will be found during the next weekly count scheduled for Dec. 12.
Most tundra swans have passed through Summer Lake Wildlife Area enroute to wintering locales in California. About 2,000 swans will spend the winter taking advantage of the Area's warm and moving water along Ana River and numerous diversions that do not freeze-over. Swan numbers dropped slightly to nearly 2,300 birds during the last count, down from the previous week. Migrant and wintering trumpeter swans continue to be observed, 26 trumpeters were recorded on the count. Look for swans in large open water bodies where they can be observed feeding on submerged aquatic plants or on ice-covered pond margins where they roost.
Shorebirds, waders and other waterbirds
Nearly all have migrated south through the Area, only a few incidental migrants remain and can sometimes be located along canals and in ponds scattered across the Area.
Raptors and Others
Resident and wintering raptors remain scattered throughout the Wildlife Area as well as on private lands along Highway 31. Meadows offer excellent foraging opportunities for many raptors. Wintering raptors are found in good numbers throughout the Summer Lake Basin and are very apparent along Highway 31. Northern harriers are especially numerous over marsh and hay meadows. Bald eagles are commonly seen along the Ana River near the River Ranch. Prairie falcons and golden eagles are sometimes seen during this time of the year. Arctic nesting rough-legged hawks have arrived and numbers are expected to increase as winter progresses. Of interest is a red-shouldered hawk that remains near the Headquarters Complex. Look for this species in tree cover where it behaves similar to accipiters (Cooper's, goshawks and sharp-shinned hawks).
Eurasian collared doves remain at Headquarters Complex.
Passerine (perching) species, especially sparrows and finches remain fairly common around the Headquarters complex, Summer Lake Rest Area, homestead sites and shelter break plantings at the north end of the Area where they are attracted to tree and shrub cover. Wintering species continue to arrive and increase in number. Cedar waxwings were fairly numerous over the past week.
Facilities and Access
Non-motorized access and viewing opportunities are available in most of the Area at this time. Posted refuge areas are closed to all entry while game bird hunting seasons are underway. Camping is permitted at four sites on the Wildlife Area.
The Wildlife Viewing Loop closed on October 3 and will remain so through the General Waterfowl Hunting Season (ending on January 27, 2008).
Secondary and minor dikes remain closed to motor vehicle traffic and cross country travel by motor vehicles and ATVs is prohibited.
Habitat
Wetland habitats have changed dramatically as mild fall conditions have changed due to harsh winter weather. A majority (90%) of the Area's wetlands are frozen over. Ana River and moving water, such as channels below water control structures will remain open unless cold temperatures become harsh and prolonged. As storms continue to move through the area, tall and erect emergent marsh plants (bulrush and cattails) will become lodged over and increase visibility across wetlands. Seeds and submerged vegetation has been greatly reduced since freeze-up has occurred.
Meadows and hayfields are found on adjacent private lands and in selected locations on the Wildlife Area. These areas continue to provide excellent hunting sites for raptors since the ground is free of snow.
Habitat enhancement and restoration activities continue in Bullgate Refuge, Link Marsh and East Link Units. These areas were controlled burned in spring and dried out to mimic drought conditions that historically restored productivity to semi-permanent wetlands. Bullgate Refuge Unit is fully flooded but ice covered at this time, while East Link and Link Marsh units will remain dry until fall 2008. These areas have been mowed and portions will be disked next field season to reduce dense monotypic stands of tall emergent vegetation. The River Ranch unit is being drawn down at this time in preparation for habitat enhancement activities in 2008.
Upland sites are in excellent condition due to lush growth of grasses and forbs. The lack of snow cover at this time allows for good food availability to most wildlife. Trees and shrubs have produced an abundance of fruits and seeds that are being utilized by a wide variety of wildlife species now.
Please contact Summer Lake Wildlife Area at (541) 943-3152 or email martin.j.stlouis@state.or.us or jason.a.journey@state.or.us for additional information.
NORTHEAST ZONE
FISHING
Trout fishing in most Northeast Zone streams and Kinney Lake closed Oct. 31. They will open again on May 24, 2008. Check regulations for exceptions.
GRANDE RONDE, WALLOWA AND IMNAHA RIVERS: steelhead
Trout fishing is closed until Spring. Steelhead angling in the lower Imnaha and Grande Ronde Rivers is very good. Steelhead anglers surveyed on the lower Grande Ronde River last week averaged one steelhead for every 15.3 hours fished, a little lower catch rate than previous weeks. Counts of adult steelhead moving upstream at lower Snake River dams are exceeding last years counts and the ten year average. We expect good steelhead angling to continue.
JOHN DAY RIVER: bass and steelhead
Steelhead angling success and fish movements upstream have slowed with cooler weather. Steelhead are well distributed throughout the river up to Twickenham. Remember to keep those clipped hatchery fish and release the unmarked ones.
Stream flow levels, Service Creek gauging station: http://waterdata.usgs.gov/or/nwis/uv?14046500.
The John Day River above Kimberly and all tributaries are closed to trout angling until May 24, 2008. The John Day River below Kimberly is open to angling for steelhead and bass all year.
LAGRANDE RESERVOIR: Closed to fishing until next spring.
MAGONE LAKE: trout
Angling success for brook and rainbow trout has been fair. Rainbows to 14" will be available to boaters and bank anglers until ice covers the lake. Once ice becomes safe to walk on, anglers should have fair to good success fishing through the ice.
MORGAN LAKE: Closed to fishing until next spring.
UMATILLA RIVER: steelhead, salmon
Fishing has been slow for steelhead below Threemile Dam. Steelhead numbers and catch rates should improve as river flows increase. Open for adipose fin clipped steelhead through Dec. 31. Closed to coho salmon and jack fall Chinook as of Dec. 1.
WALLOWA LAKE: trout
Fair for stocked rainbow trout. Lake conditions are good but the boat launches are a challenge because water levels are low and boat docks have been removed for the winter. Rainbow should be distributed throughout the lake and bait angling will be most effective for rainbow from the bank.
WILLOW CREEK RESERVOIR: Trout, crappie, bullhead catfish
Trout angling is fair.
NORTHEAST ZONE HUNTING
ATV users, please respect road closures designed to protect wildlife and improve the hunting experience.
Visit the Northeast Fall Hunting Forecast
http://www.dfw.state.or.us/RR/hunting_forecast/2007_fall_northeast.asp
Open: Cougar, chukar, duck, goose mt. quail (open only in portions of zone) and California quail
UNION COUNTY
ELKHORN WILDLIFE AREA: The Elkhorn Wildlife Area closes to on Dec. 1, to minimize disruption to wintering deer and elk herds.
Warm weather contributed to a light harvest for first season; leaving a good number of yearling bulls for the general season. Precipitation late this week should improve hunting conditions for general season hunters.
Fall turkey hunting has been very productive for those with tags. Hunters should contact the Northeast Regional Office @ 541-963-2138 for a list of landowners with fall turkey damage.
Waterfowl hunting will improve later in the season as standing water becomes more abundant.
Upland bird production is about average.
Bear and cougar populations are healthy to increasing in the area. Bears are congregated in drainages and low lands, feeding on fall fruits. Remember that a valid, unused deer or elk tag is required to be on your person to hunt bear or cougar with a centerfire or muzzleloading rifle during Eastern Oregon controlled buck deer centerfire firearm season.
LADD MARSH WILDLIFE AREA
Bird hunting conditions are slowly improving with the lower temperatures; about 50% of the wetlands now have water. The best hunting has been on either side of Peach Road. With the last couple of storms, the area has seen more birds moving in also and there is rain forecast later this week (week of Nov. 12). If you are interested in hunting Ladd Marsh, watch the weather report for La Grande. If the weather is going to be overcast and windy, it will be a good day. Hunters are always encouraged to let the birds work; do not shoot at birds out of range (skybust) as this can ruin other people's hunt.
GRANT COUNTY
Access to parts of the west Murderers Creek unit will be closed for the purpose of capturing feral horses. The closure will only be in effect from December 10-20, 2007. For more information please contact the Malheur National Forest at 541-575-3000.
Chukars and Huns can be found on open slope were green up has started growing. Over all numbers of birds are low but chicks per brood is fair. Quail can be found in brushy draws and riparian areas along river system. Production is fair around the county.
Now that colder weather has set in coyotes may be responding well to calls. Good areas to try are the South Fork of the John Day and on private lands between Dayville and John Day. Make sure to ask permission before hunting private lands.
Cougar populations are healthy and increasing in the area. They may respond to calls but will likely come in slower that coyotes. With recent snow, one may be able to track a cougar down.
MORROW COUNTY
TURKEY: For fall turkey hunters planning on hunting in the Heppner and Fossil units, the turkey populations are doing well. They are well distributed throughout the forest, although not as common in the higher elevations areas. In the Heppner unit, the Southern part of the forest from Tamarack to Indian Creek has the most consistent activity. Fossil unit hunters should focus on the Northern side of the Forest.
Upland bird production was down in the district this year. The Chukar and Hun numbers about the same as they were last year. Quail numbers are down compared to last year. Overall hunters should expect a similar season to last year.
Bear populations are naturally lower in the district.
Cougar populations are healthy. As the winters snows arrive is the time to look for fresh cougar sign and calling with distress type calls or recorded cougar vocalizations can be effective. Dawn and dusk are the best times for calling.
Coyotes are abundant in the district. Finding a good location with coyote sign, watching the wind direction and using distress type calls or howlers can be effective.
WALLOWA DISTRICT
COUGAR: Cougar are abundant throughout Wallowa County, but can be difficult to observe. Locating fresh cougar sign and patiently calling attempting to imitate a fawn or calf in distress can sometimes be an effective technique.
COYOTE: Good numbers of coyotes can be found throughout Wallowa County. Calling coyotes with rabbit distress type calls has been effective for hunters. It is important to choose areas with abundant coyote sign and little human activity.
UPLAND BIRDS: Chukar hunting continues to be very slow, birds are widely scattered as populations are below normal.
WATERFOWL: Duck hunting has improved with increased numbers of migratory birds showing up in the valley. Hunters have been successful jump shooting or hunting over decoys.
TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS: Noregaard, Whiskey Creek, and Shamrock travel management areas in the Sled Springs unit are in effect.
UMATILLA DISTRICT
Waterfowl: Hunters can expect normal numbers of early local birds in areas on or adjacent to the Columbia River.
Quail: Numbers are good and will provide some good recreation throughout the season. Hunters will be served best by concentrating on Shrub areas along creeks in low areas. The Columbia River Wildlife Areas are good locations for quail hunting (Irrigon, Power City, Coyote Springs, and Willow Creek Wildlife Areas).
Bear and cougar populations are healthy to increasing. Bear densities are higher north of I-84 due to increased mast and berries which the bears feed on. Bears will be pulling down into lower areas to feed on hawthorn berries as the fall progresses. Most bears will be heading for the den soon.
Cougar numbers are high throughout the forested areas of Umatilla County. Hunters will find the best success by finding a fresh natural kill and sitting by it for the cougar to return, or by calling in areas near the snowline.
BAKER COUNTY
ELKHORN WILDLIFE AREA: The Elkhorn Wildlife Area closes on Dec. 1, to minimize disruption to wintering deer and elk herds.
Chukar/Hun: The recent snow and cold weather has concentrated birds on south slopes, while numbers are still low this year decent bird hunting can still be found. For best success try portions of the Pine Creek and Lookout Mountain Units located along Brownlee Reservoir. Decent hunting can often be found for Hungarian Partridge which are an often underutilized opportunity.
Quail: Look for quail around agricultural areas or lowland riparian areas with abundant forage. Try along Snake River Road in eastern Baker County.
Waterfowl: Waterfowl hunting has improved with the recent cold fronts. Look for areas with open water for your best chance at harvesting a limit of ducks. Look for new growth in agricultural fields for your best goose hunting. Remember to ask permission before accessing private ground.
Cougar: Populations are high across the county. With the snow and cold weather cougars have moved down to the deer winter ranges. Calling tactics and tracking in the fresh snow are two good methods of harvesting an animal.
NORTHEAST ZONE VIEWING
EVENTS
Join in the Christmas Bird Count!
Oregon's Christmas Bird Count; Dec. 14 through Jan. 5
Birders of all experience levels are invited. It's great fun, as well as a way to improve your birding skills, find new places to go birding and meet other birders. If you can't join the field teams, take part by counting the birds in your yard.
Antone Christmas Bird Count, Monday, December 17
Contact Joel Geier, (541) 745-5020 (home), (541) 745-5821 (work), joel.geier@peak.org
Baker City, Baker County-Salisbury Christmas Bird Count, Saturday, December 15
Joanne Britton, (541) 523-5666, jobr@oregontrail.net
Meet 8:00 a.m. at weigh station on Hwy 7, one mile south of Baker City. Please contact the compiler beforehand as weather conditions may close some roads in the count circle.
Baker County-Baker Valley Christmas Bird Count, Saturday, January 5
Contact Joanne Britton, (541) 523-5666, jobr@oregontrail.net
Meet 8:00 a.m. at Sumpter Jct. Restaurant, Exit 304 off Interstate 84, in Baker City. Please contact the compiler in advance.
John Day Christmas Bird Count, Saturday, December 15
Tom Winters, (541) 542-2006 (home); (541) 620-0667 (cell), ducksouptom@ortelco.net
Umatilla County Christmas Bird Count, Saturday, December 29
Contact Aaron Skirvin, umatbirder@yahoo.com
Union County (Cove and Union area) Christmas Bird Count, Saturday, December 15
Trent Bray, (541) 963-2888, avitours@aol.com
The Audubon Christmas Bird Count is the oldest and largest citizen science event in the world. For over a hundred years, people have gathered together during the winter holiday season to count birds. Citizen science is recognized as an important component of the Oregon Conservation Strategy, http://www.dfw.state.or.us/conservationstrategy/
For more information on Christmas Bird Counts, visit the Portland Audubon Web site, http://www.audubonportland.org/events/christmas_bird_count/cbc2007
National Audubon Society's Web site, http://www.audubon.org/bird/cbc/getinvolved.html
Baker County
NEW: Rocky Mountain elk have moved onto the feed sites. The best time for viewing is mid morning or late in the afternoon. For a close up look try a wagon ride. For information, contact T&T Wildlife Tours, (541) 856-3356, http://www.tnthorsemanship.com/tours.htm
T&T Wildlife Tours operate at the Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife Anthony Creek feed site located on North Powder River Lane, 8 miles west of North Powder, Oregon. (Take the North Powder exit off of Interstate 84, and proceed west following the wildlife viewing signs.)Tours are offered every weekend beginning December 15, 2007 and concluding February 24, 2008.
Bighorn sheep can be viewed in the Burnt River Canyon west of Durkee or along the Snake River Road south of Richland.
Mule deer are on the winter ranges. Mature bucks can be found in the vicinity of large herds. For the best viewing opportunities look at middle to lower elevation slopes with a southern exposure
Bald eagles can be seen along open water areas of the Snake River and Brownlee Reservoir. For best viewing, drive the Snake River Road between Richland and Huntington. For an opportunity to see a wide variety of waterfowl, try viewing the gravel ponds from Best Frontage Road in eastern Baker City.
Gilliam, Morrow, and Wheeler Counties
Rough-legged hawks (Buteo lagopus) are showing up in their wintering areas in the area. Rough-legged hawks summer at the artic tree line and winter down here in Oregon's open country. The open grass lands in the lower foot hills of the Blues will give one the best chance of seeing a Rough-legged hawk. Drive any of the highways in the Heppner area and one is sure to see a few on the power poles.
Grant County
Mule deer have moved on to the winter ranges of Grant Count, providing an excellent opportunity for viewing. Look for deer along the Middle Fork of the John Day, Highway 26 between Dayville and Prairie City; and Phillip W. Schneider Wildlife Area along the South Fork of the John Day.
Bald eagles can be observed along the John Day River between Dayville and Prairie City.
They may be hard to see but from December until April there will be the opportunity to see big horn sheep. Aldrich Mountain on the South Fork of the John Day River is the best in Grant County for viewing.
Umatilla National Forest
The Umatilla National Forest provides good birding opportunities for songbirds, woodpeckers, forest grouse, turkeys and raptor species. Deer and elk can also be seen in the forest. Once winter snows have fallen it is a great time to find tracks of various animals as the cross the road or trail. Snowshoe hares, deer, elk, coyotes, bobcats, and cougars are some of the most common and easiest to identify.
Information. http://www.fs.fed.us/r6/uma/
Union County
Bald eagles have arrived in the Grande Ronde Valley. Watch for river otters, beaver, mergansers and wood ducks along the Grande Ronde River; driving west on Highway 244 from La Grande provides good access to river viewing.
Umatilla County
Along the Columbia River, gulls and raptors including bald eagles can be seen. As cold weather settles in, waterfowl numbers will increase. With the Columbia Basin experiencing an increase in field corn production, the area is positioned to experience a large increase in wintering waterfowl with the dominant species being mallards. If this waterfowl wintering concentration develops, impressive numbers of ducks will be observed going out from and returning to the Columbia River on feeding flights. These flights of waterfowl will occur in the first half hour of light in the morning and last half hour of light in the evening. Visit area wildlife areas to see shore and marsh birds in addition to perching birds and raptors.
Wintering rough-legged hawks and short-eared owls will be common sights in grassland areas. Wood ducks are flocking up at this time and can be seen traveling in flocks up and down the river systems with cottonwood trees along the banks.
White-tailed deer can be seen in foothill areas near the base of the Blue Mountains in the early morning and the last hour of light in the evening. Mule deer can be seen out in the desert areas west of Highway 11 and 395 south of Pendleton during the same hours as white-tailed deer.
ODFW's Willow Creek Wildlife Area, Pendleton
Visit the Willow Creek Wildlife Area to see waterfowl, raptors, game birds and passerines (perching birds). On the road through the farm lands to the Wildlife Area, glassing the irrigation pivots can reward the viewer with some of the areas rare visitors, Gyrfalcons, the largest of all falcons, and Snowy owls (Artic owl) if the winter is cold enough to bring them this far south.
The habitat varies from open water to riparian woodlands. Bald eagles are an occasional visitor. The brush and thick vegetation areas in the uplands and fields are good spots for pheasant and California quail. The Wildlife Area is open to hunting. Take exit 151 off I-84, go south and follow the signs.
Snowy owls: http://www.birds.cornell.edu/AllAboutBirds/BirdGuide/Snowy_Owl.html
Wallowa County
Bighorn sheep can be observed along the breaks of the Grande Ronde River, when driving the river road from Troy up-stream to Wildcat Creek. Bighorns can be observed along the west side of the River. A few can also be observed from the river road downstream from Troy to the Washington State line. Winter months are the best time to see animals.
For individuals interested in hiking, the Lostine bighorn herd can be observed on the higher elevations of the Lostine Wildlife Area during winter months. Access the Wildlife Area by driving south 6 miles from the town of Lostine, park and hike up the open slope on the east side of the Wildlife Area (Dry Gulch).
SNAKE RIVER ZONE
FISHING
BROWNLEE RESERVOIR:
Rising water levels have thrown off the bite but this should be temporary. As water levels stabilize, perch and small crappie should start biting again. Perch are in tight schools scattered around the reservoir. The reservoir is almost 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. Reservoir level information:
http://www.nwd-wc.usace.army.mil/perl/dataquery.pl?kbrownlee
OXBOW RESERVOIR: trout
Trout are at the mouth of streams.
HELLS CANYON RESERVOIR: trout
Trout are at the mouth of streams. Approximately 1000 surplus steelhead have been released into Hells Canyon Reservoir. These fish are considered trout over 20 inches and only one can be kept per day. No tag is needed if fishing in the reservoir.
SNAKE RIVER below HELLS CANYON RESERVOIR: steelhead, trout
Steelhead fishing has been good below the dam. Using corkies and eggs from the bank is successful. If fishing from a boat, plugs and sandshrimp with a diver has been working from the dam to Wildsheep. Please use good fishing ethics when boat and bank fishermen are in close proximity. Trout fishing has been very good also.
SNAKE RIVER (Above Brownlee Reservoir): channel catfish, flathead catfish, smallmouth bass
Flow was 8,341 cfs near Nyssa and approximately 11,151 cfs near Weiser on December 9. Angling for catfish and smallmouth bass is slow.
COLUMBIA ZONE
Notice of Columbia River Compact/Joint State Hearings: ODFW & WDFW have scheduled a Compact/Joint State Hearing for 10 a.m. Thursday Dec. 13 at the Kelso City Hall located at 203 South Pacific Avenue in Kelso, Washington to consider recreational and commercial seasons for sturgeon and smelt on the Columbia River for 2008.
The states have scheduled a second hearing for 10 a.m. Thursday Jan. 24, 2008 at the Water Resource Education Center located at 4600 SE Columbia Way in Vancouver, Washington to consider recreational and commercial fishing seasons for spring chinook on the Columbia River for 2008.
FISHING
SALMON, STEELHEAD, AND SHAD:
COLUMBIA RIVER MAINSTEM, Buoy 10 Line upstream to Tongue Point: This section of the Columbia River is currently open through the end of the year to the retention of chinook, adipose fin-clipped coho and adipose fin-clipped steelhead. The daily bag limit of two adult salmon or steelhead (only one of which may be a chinook) has been modified to allow the retention of two additional fin-clipped adult coho. The retention of chum salmon is prohibited. Effective October 1 this section is also open to the retention of jack salmon with a daily bag limit of five jacks.
COLUMBIA RIVER MAINSTEM, Tongue Point to Bonneville Dam: This section of the Columbia River is currently open through the end of the year to the retention of chinook, adipose fin-clipped coho, and adipose fin-clipped steelhead. The daily bag limit of two adult salmon or steelhead (only one of which may be a chinook), and five jacks has been modified to allow the retention of two additional fin-clipped adult coho. It is unlawful to angle for jack salmon after the daily bag limit has been reached. The retention of chum salmon is prohibited. Effective November 1-December 31, angling for salmon from a floating device is prohibited between Beacon Rock and Bonneville Dam.
COLUMBIA RIVER MAINSTEM, Bonneville Dam to the Oregon/Washington Border: This section of the Columbia River is currently open to angling for chinook, coho (only adipose fin-clipped coho may be retained between Bonneville Dam and the Hood River bridge), and adipose fin-clipped steelhead. The daily bag limit is two adult salmon or steelhead and five jacks. It is unlawful to angle for jack salmon after the daily bag limit has been reached. The retention of chum salmon is prohibited.
Steelhead fishing was good in the Columbia above John Day Dam and in the John Day Arm last week. The salmonid creel program on the lower Columbia has ended for the year and will resume next February.
John Day Pool (Columbia River above John Day Dam and John Day Arm):
Weekly checking showed 18 adipose fin-clipped summer steelhead kept plus 16 unclipped summer steelhead released for 25 boats and no catch for five bank rods.
STURGEON:
BUOY 10 UPSTREAM TO WAUNA POWERLINES (including Youngs Bay and all adjacent Washington tributaries):
This section of the Columbia River is closed to the retention of sturgeon through Dec. 1. Catch and release will be allowed during the retention closure.
WAUNA POWERLINES UPSTREAM TO BONNEVILLE DAM (including all adjacent Washington tributaries and the Willamette River downstream of Willamette Falls including the Multnomah Channel):
Effective Monday, Oct. 1 through Dec. 31, this section of the Columbia River is open to the retention of sturgeon seven days per week with a daily bag limit of one sturgeon between 42-60 inches in length and an annual limit of five fish. The retention of green sturgeon is prohibited.
BONNEVILLE DAM UPSTREAM TO THE DALLES DAM:
The retention of sturgeon in the Bonneville pool is currently closed through the end of the year. Catch and release will be allowed during the retention closure.
THE DALLES DAM UPSTREAM TO MCNARY DAM:
The retention of sturgeon in The Dalles and John Day pools is currently closed through the end of the year. Catch and release will be allowed during the retention prohibition.
River levels were high and effort was light in the lower Columbia River this past weekend. Anglers in the gorge and Portland to Longview areas were catching a few sublegal sturgeon.
Gorge Bank:
Weekend checking showed one oversize and 16 sublegal sturgeon released for 39 bank anglers (incomplete trips).
Gorge Boats:
Weekend checking showed 30 sublegal sturgeon released for three boats.
Troutdale Boats:
No report.
Portland to Longview Bank:
No report.
Portland to Longview Boats:
Weekend checking showed 62 sublegal sturgeon released for twenty boats (incomplete trips).
WALLEYE:
Troutdale: No report.
COLUMBIA RIVER ZONE VIEWING
Events:
Join in the Christmas Bird Count!
Oregon's Christmas Bird Count; Dec. 14 through Jan. 5
Birders of all experience levels are invited. It's great fun, as well as a way to improve your birding skills, find new places to go birding and meet other birders. If you can't join the field teams, take part by counting the birds in your yard.
Columbia Estuary Christmas Bird Count, Sunday, Dec. 16
Contact: Mike Patterson, (503) 325-1365 or celata@pacifier.com
Meet at 7:00 a.m. at the Pig-n-Pancake Restaurant in Astoria.
Portland Christmas Bird Count, Saturday, January 5
Portland will hold its 82nd Count this year. Birders will comb the parks, open spaces, wetlands, rivers and neighborhoods all over Portland looking for birds. At the end of the day, volunteers get together and share what they found. For more information, contact Wink Gross, winkg@hevanet.com, (503) 226-3842
Salem Christmas Bird Count, Saturday, December 15
Contact Glen Lindeman, (503) 364-6968, gdalindy@msn.com
Contact the compiler; teams arranged in advance.
For more information on Christmas Bird Counts, visit the Portland Audubon Web site, http://www.audubonportland.org/events/christmas_bird_count/cbc2007
National Audubon Society's Web site, http://www.audubon.org/bird/cbc/getinvolved.html
Look for Beavers
In addition to birds of prey such as hawks and eagles, autumn is a good time to look for beaver sign along the Columbia River. While recreating along the river, look for any beaver damage where they have chewed on trees. Another indicator is a slide mark where the beaver has slid into the water from the bank. If looking for beaver dams, try searching an area with a narrow passage where the water is slow moving.
For more information about Oregon's beaver: http://bluebook.state.or.us/kids/symbols/symbols01.htm
http://www.metro-region.org/article.cfm?articleID150
MARINE ZONE
FISHING
Clams
Taking shellfish is still closed from the South Jetty at Newport north to the Columbia River. This does not include the taking of crab. The Oregon Department of Agriculture is responsible for shellfish safety. Check for current closures on the ODA shellfish safety page at: http://www.oregon.gov/ODA/FSD/shellfish_status.shtml or call the shellfish hotline, 503-986-4728 or 1-800-448-2474.
If the closure is lifted in time clam diggers can take advantage of minus tides just after sunset from Dec. 8 through the 13. The daily limit for razor clams is the first 15 taken regardless of size or condition. More information on Oregon's razor clams, including tips on how to dig razor clams is available at: http://www.dfw.state.or.us/MRP/shellfish/index.asp
Check out the new recreational bay clam pages on the ODFW Web site. They contain everything you need to know for identifying and harvesting Oregon's plentiful bay clams.
Fishing
Fishers reported good catches of ling cod in the ocean, but poor catches of rockfish. Black rockfish in particular are off the bite. Species illustrations and descriptions are in The Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations booklet (page 98) and The Red Rockfish Identification Guide. The minimum length for lingcod is 22 inches, for cabezon it is 16 inches and for greenling it is 10 inches. Fishing for cabezon from a boat is closed, but cabezon may still be caught from shore and by shore-based divers.
Fishing for bottom fish outside of the 40-fathom curve opened to anglers on Oct. 1. Remember: yellow eye rockfish and canary rockfish may not be retained. Also, the Stonewall Bank Yelloweye Rockfish Conservation Area approximately 15 miles west of Newport is closed to the harvest of rockfish, ling cod and flat fish. The waypoints for the Stonewall Bank YRCA.
The marine daily bag limit for 2007 is six fish (including rockfish, greenling and other marine species) and two lingcod and 15 surfperch. Complete regulations are in the 2007 Oregon Sport Ocean Regulations for Salmon, Halibut and other Marine Fish Species.
Fishing for Pacific halibut is closed for the year.
All salmon in the ocean is closed except: the Elk River Ocean Terminal Fall Chinook Salmon Fishery from Humbug Mountain on the south to Cape Blanco on the north and out three miles, which is open until Dec. 15.
Crabs
Both sport and crabbing is open in the ocean as of Dec. 1. Bays and estuaries also are open and crabbing success has been good recently. Many fishers report good success using chicken for bait. For more information on sport crabbing please see the newly completed Web pages at: http://www.dfw.state.or.us/MRP/shellfish/index.asp.
For sport crabbers the minimum size for Dungeness crab is 5¾ inches measured in a straight line across the back immediately in front of, but not including, the points. For a photograph and diagram see page 97 of the Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations booklet.
MARINE ZONE VIEWING
EVENTS
Join in the Christmas Bird Count!
Oregon's Christmas Bird Count; Dec. 14 through Jan. 5
Birders of all experience levels are invited. It's great fun, as well as a way to improve your birding skills, find new places to go birding and meet other birders. If you can't join the field teams, take part by counting the birds in your yard.
Astoria, Columbia Estuary, Christmas Bird Count, Sunday, December 16
Mike Patterson, (503) 325-1365, celata@pacifier.com
Meet 7:00 a.m. at Pig-n-Pancake Restaurant in Astoria.
Tillamook Bay Christmas Bird Count, Saturday, December 15
Owen Schmidt, (503) 282-9403, oschmidt@att.net
Meet by 7:00 a.m., Fern Restaurant, 1000 N. Hwy. 101, Tillamook (6:30 a.m. no-host buffet breakfast).
Upper Nestucca, Christmas Bird Count, Thursday, December 27, 2007
Contact Don Albright, (503) 538-8890, donalbri@teleport.com
Yaquina Bay Christmas Bird Count, Saturday, January 5
Contact Rebecca Cheek, (541) 867-4699, nelsoncheek@charter.net
Meet 7:00 a.m., Apple Peddler Restaurant, 705 SE Coast Hwy, Newport.
The Audubon Christmas Bird Count is the oldest and largest citizen science event in the world. For over a hundred years, people have gathered together during the winter holiday season to count birds. Citizen science is recognized as an important component of the Oregon Conservation Strategy, http://www.dfw.state.or.us/conservationstrategy/
For more information on Christmas Bird Counts, visit the Portland Audubon Web site, http://www.audubonportland.org/events/christmas_bird_count/cbc2007
National Audubon Society's Web site, http://www.audubon.org/bird/cbc/getinvolved.html
Whale Watching
Favorable ocean conditions and clear skies made for good whale watching this week. The winter migration is short and quick-usually only about four weeks-from mid-December to mid-January. The whales are not slowed by having calves in the pod and single-mindedly drive southwards in straight lines a few miles offshore. You can see their spouts, but they are distant. About 18,000 gray whales will pass by the Oregon coast in those four weeks.
To watch the winter migration it is best to pick a calm day and find a view point that is high enough to spot the spouts that will be a few miles offshore. Learning good binocular technique will help spot the whales. Gaze out onto the ocean, focusing on medium distances until you see a puff of white. Then raise your binoculars while continuing to look at the place you saw the puff. This technique takes some practice, but generally works better than swinging the binoculars around looking for something. Just keep your eyes focused on the whale and raise the binoculars to your eyes, looking through them, not into them.
For more information, http://whalespoken.org/
Winter Shorebirds on the Coast
During winter storm season, don't be alarmed by a few or moderate number of dead seabirds along the shoreline. It is common for a severe storm event to disrupt many seabirds. If you see an injured bird or a large number of dead birds, call your local wildlife rehabilitation center or ODFW office for advice.
Posted in Community on Thursday, December 13, 2007 12:00 am Updated: 11:07 pm.
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