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day, July 13, 2005 www.dfw.state.or.us
ODFW moves to preserve groundfish season
As ocean fishing for groundfish species this summer continues to offer excellent opportunity for anglers along the Oregon coast, state Department of Fish and Wildlife officials today announced a marine fish daily bag limit reduction designed to keep the fishery open through the season.
After consultation with a citizen advisory panel, fishery managers reduced the daily bag limit for marine species from eight to five. The marine fish bag includes rockfish, greenling, flounder, sole and cabezon. The limit for lingcod remains the same, at two fish per day.
The change goes into effect at 11:59 p.m. Friday, July 15.
Preliminary analysis of sport fishing data this year indicates fishing effort and harvest for groundfish is increasing. Anglers appear to be shifting from salmon to groundfish, as ocean salmon angling has been slow to start.
Numerous groundfish species in Oregon waters are managed using state and federal harvest caps. The sport groundfish season was closed last year just before Labor Day, when anglers reached the 342 metric-ton federal harvest cap for black rockfish. It was the first time the sport groundfish season closed early in Oregon. The federal harvest cap for black rockfish was decreased to 332 metric tons for 2005.
ODFW has convened the Sportfish Advisory Committee several times this year to review preliminary data and information from anglers, charter boat operators, ports and other fishery experts. While the advisors differed between bag limits of five and six fish, there was uniform support for some kind of reduction to ensure continuation of the season.
Officials will continue to monitor the fishery closely, and may increase the bag limit later this year if it can be done within the federal and state harvest caps. Fishery managers also will monitor other species managed with harvest caps to help ensure catch of these species does not limit the 2005 sport groundfish fishery.
NORTHWEST ZONE
FISHING
LOST LAKE: Stocked with larger size rainbow trout. Fishing should be fair to good. Lost Lake Road (off Nehalem River Road near Spruce Run Campground) was scheduled to reopen after a two-week closure on July 12.
MID-COAST LAKES: Anglers can anticipate good fishing for warmwater game fish from spring through fall in area lakes. In the Florence Area, both Siltcoos and Tahkenitch Lakes can offer anglers very good fishing for large mouth bass, perch, bluegill, crappie and brown bullhead. In addition, Mercer, Sutton and Woahink Lakes can offer anglers fair fishing for similar warm water species. In the Lincoln City area, Devils Lake can offer fair fishing for a variety of warm water species. The trout stocking season is over for all mid-coast water bodies.
NEHALEM BAY: Angling for chinook is slow, but should improve later in the month. Troll herring near the bottom. Best bet is from the Highway 101 bridge near Wheeler downstream.
NESTUCCA RIVER AND THREE RIVERS. Spring chinook angling is fair. Summer steelhead angling is slow to fair. The season for hatchery spring chinook and summer steelhead on Three Rivers below Cedar Creek Hatchery closed July 10. Best fishing for chinook should be in the lower Nestucca below Beaver. Summer steelhead should be more scattered through the Nestucca River. Catch and release angling for sea-run cutthroat trout should be improving as more fish enter the river.
NORTH COAST LAKES: Angling for bass and other warmwater fish should be fair to good. Coffenbury, Cullaby, and Sunset lakes are the best bets for warmwater species.
TILLAMOOK AREA LAKES: Cape Meares Lake and Lytle Lake are producing decent catches of largemouth bass. Some largemouth bass are also available in Town Lake and Smith Lake.
TILLAMOOK BAY: Angling for sturgeon is slow. Best fishing this time of year is usually in the upper bay, particularly the Tillamook River tidewater.
TOWN LAKE: The lake was not stocked with larger size trout as scheduled the week of June 20. Trophy size trout are scheduled to be stocked later this summer, and several hundred excess hatchery steelhead were released in the lake over the winter.
WILSON AND TRASK RIVERS: Angling for spring chinook and summer steelhead has been slow to fair. Catch and release angling for sea-run cutthroat trout is improving.
SHELLFISH
CLAMMING: Harvest of razor clams found on beaches, spits, jetties, and estuaries along the Oregon Coast remains closed due to high levels of domoic acid. Harvest of mussels and other shellfish species is open at this time. Always check for health advisories by calling the Oregon Department of Agriculture's Shellfish hotline at (800) 448-2474 or their website at http://oregon.gov/ODA/FSD/shellfish_status.shtml for updates, as toxin levels are changing rapidly at this time.
VIEWING
Deer fawns and elk calves are being seen more commonly on the north coast. Jewell Meadows Wildlife Area is probably the best place for viewing the new elk arrivals. By instinct, mothers leave fawns, calves, bear cubs and cougar kittens for extended periods to feed and so they don't draw attention to their newborns. Please enjoy viewing young wildlife where you find them, but leave them alone. Mother is most likely nearby.
The peregrine falcons that nest by Cape Meares State Park and Lighthouse have successfully fledged a young, and it is now flying around the area under the watchful eyes of the parents. It is an exceptionally rare opportunity to see breeding peregrines in a natural setting from a relatively short distance. Bring your binoculars for the best view.
Common murres and tufted puffins are staging around near-shore coastal rocks such as Three Arch Rocks near Oceanside. At Cape Meares State Park, there are a number of excellent informational panels that describe the history and biology of this colonial nesting phenomenon. Each year more than 200,000 murres and several thousand tufted puffins nest at Three Arch Rocks.
Great blue herons generally nest in colonial rookeries in older forest stands. The rookeries are usually close to estuaries, which tend to be their preferred foraging areas on the north coast. Although they are usually seen out in estuaries in singles or small groups, occasionally they can be found in groups of 20 or more in one area. This has been noted especially in the far western side of Netarts Bay.
Brown pelicans are migrating into the north coast area, and will become increasingly more numerous as the summer progresses. Some popular areas to view them include the near-shore areas of the Pacific Ocean, the lower Columbia River estuary, as well as Tillamook, Netarts and Nestucca Bays. The birds can also be seen roosting at Three Arch Rocks, near Oceanside, when they're not out feeding.
SOUTHWEST ZONE
FISHING
Effective Jan. 1, rainbow trout over 16 inches are considered steelhead when caught in streams and must be entered on a tag if harvested.
ALL SPORTS POND: Fishing should be good for bass, panfish, and an occasional rainbow trout. Numerous western pond turtles in the pond offer an excellent viewing opportunity, but anglers are advised to avoid fishing sections of the pond where turtles have been observed.
AGATE LAKE: Fishing should be good for largemouth bass and panfish. Anglers have reported good success on black crappie recently.
APPLEGATE RIVER: The Applegate River upstream to Applegate Dam is open for trout fishing with a limit of 2 adipose fin-clipped rainbow trout per day, 8 inch minimum length. Nonadipose fin-clipped rainbow trout and all cutthroat trout must be released unharmed. The use of bait is allowed. Outflows from Applegate Reservoir are averaging 300 cubic feet per second on Tuesday morning.
APPLEGATE RESERVOIR: Applegate Reservoir is stocked with rainbow trout, and land-locked juvenile spring chinook salmon are also available, along with bass and panfish. Fishing is good.
BURMA POND: Burma Pond is stocked with legal-sized rainbow trout.
COOPER CREEK RESERVOIR and PLAT I RESERVOIR: Largemouth bass fishing is good especially early morning and late evenings in the shade. Plastics worms, jigs, and top water baits are all are working well. The bass are averaging 12 to 15 inches.
COOS COUNTY LAKES: Large holdover trout are available in TENMILE LAKES, often up to 17" or more in length.
Angling for warmwater species is fair at this time in the TENMILE LAKES, EEL LAKE, and COOS COUNTY DUNE LAKES, however many area lakes will have thick weed growth as the summer progresses, making for tougher angling conditions. With spawning complete, largemouth bass and other warmwater species will move to deeper water and to outside edges of weed lines, and are not as aggressive as when they were defending nests. Try more subtle presentions of plastic worms or jigs.
COOS RIVER BASIN: Shad are available in the SOUTH COOS and MILLICOMA RIVER tidewater, although this is late for them to still be running. Trout angling in local streams such as those on the Elliott State Forest can be good for resident cutthroat and rainbows. Angling in streams above tidewater is restricted to artificial flies and lures from May 28 through August 31. Anglers should handle fish to be released with care, especially during warm weather and water conditions.
Sturgeon, several surfperch species, and striped bass are in tidewater of the Coos Basin at this time.
COQUILLE RIVER BASIN: Shad are available in the COQUILLE RIVER tidewater, although this is late for them to still be running. Trout angling in local streams can be good for resident cutthroat and rainbows. Angling in streams above tidewater is restricted to artificial flies and lures from May 28 through August 31. Anglers should handle fish to be released with care, especially during warm weather and water conditions. Anglers are reminded that a 12-mile section of the SOUTH FORK COQUILLE River from the USFS Boundary to South Fork Falls is closed to all angling, including tributaries.
COQUILLE RIVER: Striped bass are available in the tidewater around Arago, Riverton, Randolph Island, and adjacent to Johnson Mill Pond. Stripers will take bait such as shrimp or baitfish, as well as large plugs. Most feeding activity is near dawn and dusk.
DIAMOND LAKE: Fishing at Diamond Lake has been slow throughout the lake. The fish are beginning to concentrate near Silent Creek. Trolling needle fish silver/red works best. Bank anglers are using floating powerbait fished about a foot above the bottom.
DUTCH HERMAN POND: Dutch Herman Pond is stocked with legal-sized rainbow trout.
EMIGRANT RESERVOIR: Emigrant Reservoir is stocked with legal-sized rainbow trout, and bass and panfish are also available. Fishing for panfish has been good, but anglers are reminded that crappie less than 8-inches must be released unharmed.
EXPO POND: Trout are available along with bass and panfish. Fishing for panfish has been good in the northernmost pond as well.
FISH LAKE: Fish Lake is stocked with rainbow trout, and fishing has been good. Anglers have been most successful trolling lures, but flies and bait fishing are also producing fish. Anglers must be aware that the US Forest Service has posted signs warning of potential health hazards associated with the annual algae blooms in the lake. While a health advisory has not been issued at this time, the signs warn that such blooms can be harmful when blue green algae are present. The Oregon Department of Human Services advises against contact with water during a blue green algae bloom, and that eating fish caught during a bloom may pose a health risk. In dense blooms, DHS advises that anglers should remove all fat, skin and organs before cooking fish since toxins are more likely to collect in these tissues. For more information on blue green algae blooms see the DHS website at www.oregon.gov/DHS/ph/envtox/maadvisories. The Ashland Ranger District may be contacted at (541) 552-2900.
GALESVILLE RESERVOIR: Trolling with wedding rings and worms is still producing good catches of 8 to 10 inch trout. Largemouth bass fishing is good. Bass are now in the summer holding patterns located on points and deep wood. Senko's jigs and small plastic worms are working best.
HEMLOCK LAKE: Fishing is still excellent. Fly fishing with woolly buggers, streamers, and midges should produce well. Bobbers and night crawlers are producing the best. Powerbait fished on the bottom is always a standby.
HIGH MOUNTAIN LAKES: These lakes were just stocked. Fishing has been very good, with rooster tails producing well. Bobbers and night crawlers are producing the best for larger brook trout.
HOWARD PRAIRIE RESERVOIR: Fishing has been fair for rainbow trout. The trout are in excellent condition, averaging 12-14 inches and running up to 20 inches. Bass fishing should be good.
HYATT LAKE: Anglers fishing in the early morning are having success on rainbow trout. Large trout are available in the 14 to 16-inch size range, and a late stocking of fingerling has produced good numbers of smaller fish. Some catches of good-sized largemouth bass have been reported, but most bass are in the four to five inch range this year.
LAKE SELMAC: The lake is stocked with legal-sized rainbow trout, and fishing for largemouth bass should be good.
LEMOLO LAKE : Fishing for trout is good. Best fishing for browns is occurring near the dam, trolling small black roostertails. Powerbait fished on the bottom is always a standby.
LOON LAKE : Fishing for trout is slow. Largemouth bass fishing is good. Fish shaded waters early mornings and late evenings. Some fish are coming off docks. Top water, spinner baits, and plastics all work well.
LOST CREEK RESERVOIR: Lost Creek is stocked with rainbow trout, and land-locked juvenile spring chinook salmon also are available, along with bass and panfish. Fishing has been good for trout, and very good for smallmouth bass recently. Casting jigs along the northern shoreline has been effective for good-sized smallmouth to 1.5 pounds.
MEDCO POND: Medco Pond is stocked with rainbow trout, and fishing is good. Bass and panfish are available in addition to trout.
PACIFIC OCEAN & BEACHES: For the area from Cape Falcon to Humbug Mountain, the Chinook General Season (all salmon except coho) is open through October 31 with a bag limit of two salmon per day. Ocean salmon fishing out of Charleston, Bandon, and Winchester Bay has been good for chinook, with fewer coho being caught. Coho may be harvested through July 31, or until a quota of 40,000 adipose fin-clipped coho is reached. Minimum lengths for Chinook and steelhead are 20 inches, and 16" for coho. No more than two hooks may be used, and they must be single-point, single-shank, and barbless.
For the area from Cape Falcon to Humbug Mountain, the "Inside 40-Fathom Line" Pacific halibut season runs through October 31, or until a quota of 20,101 pounds are harvested. The All-Depth Pacific halibut fishery has another opening July 14-16 between Cape Falcon and Humbug Mt. Additional days may be approved if quota remains after July 16. Approved days will be posted on the ODFW website, www.dfw.state.or.us/MRP and on the NMFS hotline (1-800-662-9825).
ROGUE RIVER ABOVE LOST CREEK DAM: The mainstem and tributaries above Lost Creek Reservoir will be stocked this week with legal-sized rainbow trout. The limit is five trout per day, 8-inch minimum length, and no limit on the size or number of brook trout taken. The use of bait is allowed. Catches have been good recently on the North Fork Rogue River near Prospect, with fish being caught on bait and on caddis fly patterns.
ROGUE RIVER, LOWER: Fall chinook angling has been pretty slow. Anglers are also having to constantly check gear, as the algae is really bad. Some chinook are being caught, mainly a few hours before and after a high tide. Anglers have been using achovies with a green spinner blade. Summer steelhead fishing continues to be fairly consistant as a series of low pressures continue to keep fish on the bite. Try early morning on tailouts and the top of pools. Fish with nightcrawlers or a small spinner. Access is excellent for both bank and boat anglers. There are improved boat ramps at the Port of Gold Beach, Lobster Creek USFS Campground, and Quosatana USFS Campground. Bank anglers can access most of the gravel bars downstream of Lobster Creek USFS Campground.
ROGUE RIVER, MIDDLE: Some spring chinook are available, and summer steelhead numbers are picking up. Between Hog Creek and Gold Ray Dam, the Rogue is open for chinook salmon from January 1 through July 14 per zone regulations, except that for nonadipose fin-clipped chinook, no more than one per day and three per year may be kept. The Rogue is open for trout fishing with a limit of five adipose fin-clipped trout per day, 8 inch minimum length. All nonadipose fin-clipped rainbow and all cutthroat trout must be released unharmed.
ROGUE RIVER, UPPER: Outflows at Lost Creek are averaging 2,100 cubic feet per second on Tuesday morning. A total of 1,909 summer steelhead and 15,022 spring chinook salmon have passed Gold Ray dam as of July 6. Fishing for spring chinook has been slow. Between Gold Ray Dam and Cole Rivers Hatchery, the Rogue is open for chinook salmon from January 1 through July 31 per zone regulations, except that for nonadipose fin-clipped chinook, no more than one per day and three per year may be kept. Trout fishing should be good. The Rogue is open for trout fishing with a limit of five adipose fin-clipped trout per day, 8 inch minimum length. All nonadipose fin-clipped rainbow and all cutthroat trout must be released unharmed. SOUTH COAST LAKES AND PONDS: Fishing has slowed on all south coast lakes as water temperatures and weed growth increase.
SOUTH COAST STREAMS: Streams have dropped considerably over the past week. Anglers are having their best success fishing the estuaries for cutthroat. Try early mornings and late evening for best success.
SPAULDING POND: Spaulding Pond is stocked with legal-sized rainbow trout.
UMPQUA RIVER, MAINSTEM: Shad fishing is slow with some harvest still occurring at Sawyer's Rapids and Yellow Creek. Red and White shad darts are best. Smallmouth Bass fishing is excellent throwing rooster tails and panther martins. Night crawlers work well too.
SOUTH UMPQUA : Smallmouth bass fishing is excellent. Topwater lures are working well in the morning, and small plastic throughout the day.
UMPQUA RIVER , NORTH: Spring chinook fishing from the Narrows to Rock Creek is slowing, but summer steelhead fishing continues to improve as more steelhead cross the dam. Excellent bank access is located near Idleyld Park . Summer steelhead are also being caught in the fly water in early mornings and late evening in the shade. As of June 15 7,188 spring chinook and 1,097 summer steelhead have been counted at Winchester Dam.
NORTH UMPQUA MAINSTEM AND TRIBUTARIES ABOVE SODA SPRINGS DAM: Fishing for trout is excellent. There are many small headwater streams that offer isolated fisheries to recruit young anglers to fishing, and remind older anglers why they fish.
WHETSTONE POND (DENMAN WILDLIFE AREA): Bass, bullheads and panfish are available.
WILLOW LAKE: The lake is stocked with rainbow trout, and fishing should be good. Crappie fishing has been very good recently. Largemouth bass are also available.
SHELLFISH
Crabbing has been good in the ocean but slowing down in the bays. Crab are also becoming soft with less meat as they molt.
Harvest of razor clams found on beaches, spits, jetties, and estuaries along the Oregon Coast remains closed due high levels of domoic acid. Harvest of mussels and other shellfish species is open at this time. ALWAYS CHECK FOR HEALTH ADVISORIES by calling the Oregon Department of Agriculture's Shellfish line at 800-448-2474 for updates, as TOXIN LEVELS ARE CHANGING RAPIDLY AT THIS TIME.
VIEWING
Viewing opportunities are available for many birds in the area right now. Shore birds are showing up on numbers on the beaches and in the bays. Some of these birds are nesting in these areas so watch for that. For the most part migrating song birds have done so now and are beginning nesting activities. This is a good time to observe these birds construct their nests. Soon young birds will be hatching and watching parents feed young is always worth while. Some waterfowl are still available for viewing in inland waters as well as in the bays and along the ocean shore. Some species will become hard to locate as they are attempting to keep newly hatched young hidden.
Young big game animals are becoming very visible now due to the fact that many are becoming very mobile. Deer fawns and elk calves can be seen in clear cuts and other openings regularly now. If viewers are lucky they may, even be able to see black bear cubs early in the morning or late in the evening. Remember, look, don't touch. Parent animals often leave young for extended periods of time while the parent feeds near by. Do not make an attempt to pick up young wildlife.
Local viewing opportunities can be found at the Dean Creek Elk Viewing Area located 3 miles west of Reedsport along Hwy 38. Bulls can be seen lounging in the fields and cows with calves can bee seen along field edges. There is a viewing facility located at Dean Creek with an interpretive center and restrooms attached.
WILLAMETTE ZONE
FISHING
BIG CLIFF RESERVOIR: Was stocked with legal-sized trout last week.
BREITENBUSH RIVER: Scheduled to be stocked with legal-sized trout this week.
CARMEN RESERVOIR: Carmen Reservoir, one of three EWEB power generation reservoirs in the upper McKenzie River is located off of Highway 126 between Trail Bridge Reservoir and Clear Lake. Carmen is stocked with legal rainbow once access is opened in the spring and is scheduled to be stocked this week. Brook trout and bull trout are also found in the reservoir. Make sure you know the difference between bull trout and brook trout before you angle as bull trout are listed and protected under the Endangered Species Act.
CASCADE MOUNTAINS HIGH LAKES: There are many lakes available in the area for day use or overnight camping that require only a short hike in to them. The degree of difficulty of the hike will usually dictate the remoteness of the lake. The high lakes have been aerial stocked and provide an angling experience unlike the more crowded, close-in waters. Bank fishing or float-tubes are the way to fish on these small mountain lakes. Please be aware of current campfire rules, and always pack out what you pack in. Maps should be available at the local U.S. Forest Service office.
For those interested in backcountry fishing, the upper Willamette area has 240 high lakes of which about 160 are stocked. The lakes range in size from Waldo at 5,000+ acres to small partial acre lakes. The lakes can vary from just off the road to a hike of over 10 miles. In areas where there are several lakes together an effort was made to provide a variety of fish species. One lake may have brook trout, another cutthroat, and another still may hold rainbow trout. Several lakes have unique fish species which are accompanied with special regulations. An example is Gold Lake. It is one of a very few west-side high lakes to have a naturally reproducing rainbow population. It is fly angling only. Because brook trout are an introduced fish species limits are more liberal. Check your regulations.
CLACKAMAS RIVER: The Clackamas River water conditions have held steady this past week. Flows on Monday were at 1,121 cfs (11.16') with the water temperature around 62°. The angling effort has continued to be very light, both on weekdays and weekends. There might still be a few spring chinook around to be hooked, with the best chance for success up near Dog Creek and McIver Park. Summer steelhead should also be available, but the steelhead numbers are down this year, so it takes a little more angling prowess to land one. Overall the catch rates for both chinook and steelhead should be considered slow. The fish seem to be spread throughout the river, from McIver Park down to High Rocks. The greatest angling success will be found if you stay above Barton. Spring chinook returns to the Clackamas Hatchery have been steady with 2,850 fish counted through Friday, July 8.
Bank anglers can find access to the river in the Gladstone/Cross Park area, at Carver near the mouth of Clear Creek, at Barton Park, at McIver Park near Dog Creek, and around River Mill Dam.
Boat anglers can find access to the river from boat ramps located at McIver Park, Feldheimers, Barton, Carver, Riverside, or Clackamette. Keep in mind that the lower McIver boat ramp has been improved and provides a great launch site for drift boats.
With the arrival of warmer weather expected this week, recreational rafters and swimmers will become regular users of the river. Anglers may want to plan their trips accordingly for times of the day and week when river use will be at a minimum.
CLEAR LAKE: Scheduled to be stocked with legal-sized trout this week.
DETROIT RESERVOIR: Was stocked with legal-sized trout last week.
EUGENE-AREA FISHING INFORMATION:
Angling Guide: http://www.dfw.state.or.us/ODFWhtml/springfield/anglingguide.html
Fishing Resources: http://www.dfw.state.or.us/springfield/fish_links.html
GREEN PETER RESERVOIR: Kokanee fishing has been good and the fish continue to grow. They are now averaging about 12-13 inches with a few up to 15 inches being taken. Trolling at 30-40 feet with flashers, spinner, and corn has been most productive.
LEABURG LAKE: Scheduled to be stocked with legal-sized trout this week.
MCKENZIE RIVER, UPPER and LOWER: Upper river is scheduled to be stocked with legal-sized trout this week. The lower river was stocked with legal-sized trout last week.
QUARTZVILLE CREEK (Above Green Peter Reservoir): Scheduled to be stocked with legal sized trout this week. Steady stocking has created good fishing, and trout may be kept.
SALT CREEK: Scheduled to be stocked with legal-sized trout this week.
SANDY RIVER: Sandy River water levels have stabilized this past week. Monday's flows were running at 713 cfs (8.38') with the water temperature near 62°. However, the warmer weather has brought with it the annual glacial run-off. Over the weekend the river was beginning to show some of the "milky" color that arrives this time of year. The expected warm-up in temperatures later this week could greatly increase the glacial silting effects.
The angling effort has been steady, with a fair showing of boat and bank anglers out on the river. There are chinook present in all sections of the river, with many fish up between Cedar Creek and Marmot Dam. It had been a fishery in which the most persistent and knowledgeable anglers were having much of the success. However, over the weekend the wealth was spread around with many fish taken near Cedar Creek. Summer steelhead angling has been slow. The Sandy River Hatchery at Cedar Creek is still getting in good numbers of fish and has had over 1500 spring chinook swim into the hatchery holding pond.
Anglers can access the river from many parks including Lewis and Clark, Dabney, Oxbow, and Dodge. Access is also available to the Cedar Creek area near 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.
SANTIAM RIVER, NORTH AND SOUTH FORKS: The North Fork is scheduled to be stocked with legal-sized trout this week.
TRAIL BRIDGE RESERVOIR: Scheduled to be stocked with legal-sized trout this week.
WILLAMETTE RIVER: The Willamette River has gone into a summertime flow pattern. Many rocks and logs are at or just below the surface, so boaters need to be very cautious. Monday's flows were at 7,937 cfs, and the water temperature was up to 71° F with a visibility of 5.5 feet. There is still a scattering of spring chinook being caught, with some occasional catch reported in the upper Multnomah Channel/St Johns area and near Oregon City and Willamette Falls. As would be expected for the middle of July, the effort has begun to drop off considerably. Both the chinook and shad fishery are pretty well wrapped up for the season. Fish counts at Willamette Falls were 12,463 summer steelhead and 34,837 spring chinook through July 8.
The sturgeon catch was fairly slow last week, with only a few legal-sized sturgeon taken in the St. Johns/Lower Harbor area and near Oregon City. The catch has been predominantly sublegals. The Willamette River downstream of Willamette Falls is open to sturgeon retention Thursday, Friday, and Saturday of each week through July 30 and again Oct. 1 through Dec. 31. Please note that anglers are limited to the use of only one single-point barbless hook while angling for sturgeon.
WILLAMETTE VALLEY PONDS: Mid valley ponds still have a few trout available and are producing some bass, bluegill and crappie for anglers fishing for those species.
Fish counts for the Willamette and Siuslaw basins can be found here:
http://www.dfw.state.or.us/ODFWhtml/springfield/fish_home.html.
VIEWING
Osprey populations in the mid 1900s were considered "one of the rarest hawks in Oregon." This species has made a dramatic recovery that was aided by several factors including: 1) A ban on DDT pesticide in 1972 when evidence was developed that DDT was causing egg shell thinning and reproductive failure in osprey and other raptors. 2) The creation of favorable habitat by construction of the Willamette watershed reservoirs. 3) A more enlightened public attitude about birds of prey that resulted in a reduction of shooting. 4) The adaptability of Ospreys that allows them to tolerate human disturbance and use artificial structures like power poles and bridges for nesting. Use of man made structures in the Willamette Valley was first observed in 1977 and is now very common. Osprey have young in their nests at this time of year. Osprey nests are very visible because of their large size and the bird's tendency to locate them in the top of trees or poles where they have the best view. Several nests can be seen at the south end of Fern Ridge Reservoir from highway 126. Other nests can be located along all of our major rivers. Two very obvious nests are on the Harrison Street Bridge over the Willamette River in Corvallis and on the Hwy 22 bridge in Salem. Several nests can be seen on power pole platforms on the east side of the Buena Vista ferry crossing near the Ankeny Wildlife Refuge.
Beaver, river otter, mink, muskrats and the introduced non-native nutria are common residents along waterways in the Willamette Valley. They can be seen by quietly floating the Willamette River in a canoe or other non-motorized boat and watching the shoreline. They are most visible early in the morning or in the evening when other boat traffic is minimal. Occasionally these animals are seen in the Delta ponds or from the river bike path in Eugene and Springfield or in many of the farm ponds on the valley floor. The non-native nutria has displaced the muskrat from much of the Willamette Valley.
CENTRAL ZONE
FISHING
ALLEN CREEK RESERVOIR: Angling opportunities for 10-15 inch naturally produced rainbow trout are good. Anglers are reminded that most of the shoreline is private property.
ANTELOPE FLAT RESERVOIR - Opportunities for 8-18 inch trout are good. Reservoir level is still high and boat ramp is operational. Warmer weather has reduced angler success.
BIG LAVA LAKE Fishing has been fair to good. The rainbow trout in Big Lava are in excellent condition; ranging up to 18 inches in length with a few fish over 20 inches showing up in the creel.
CRANE PRAIRIE RESERVOIR: Great reports continue with anglers catching limits of rainbow trout in the 12 - 15 inch range. Largemouth bass anglers have seen more action as the water temperature have increased over the last several weeks.
CRESCENT LAKE: Reports of good kokanee fishing and fair lake trout catches.
Kokanee are running 13 to 15 inches with some up to 16 inches.
CROOKED RIVER BELOW BOWMAN DAM: Opportunities for 8-16 inch rainbow trout and whitefish are excellent. No recent reports
DAVIS LAKE: No recent reports. Water levels are again low resulting in limited access. Accessible for small craft i.e. canoes; small pontoon boats and float tubes.
DESCHUTES RIVER: Trout fishing has been good on the lower Deschutes River. Anglers are doing well on caddis fly patterns.
Summer steelhead are beginning to show up in the lower Deschutes. Anglers should watch the summer steelhead counts over The Dalles Dam. As counts increase over the dam fishing will improve on the lower Deschutes.
Spring chinook fishing on the lower Deschutes River is closed. Fall chinook fishing on the Deschutes River will open August 1.
LAKE BILLY CHINOOK TO BENHAM FALLS: Fair to good reports for brown trout.
BENHAM FALLS UPSTREAM TO WICKIUP RESERVOIR: Anglers are reporting good success for brown trout with some nice rainbow also being caught.
WICKIUP RESERVOIR UPSTREAM TO CRANE PRAIRIE RESERVOIR: No reports.
CRANE PRAIRIE RESERVOIR UPSTREAM TO LITTLE LAVA LAKE: Anglers are reporting fair to good success. This stretch of water is a catch and release fishery for rainbow trout.
EAST LAKE: Reports of good brown trout catches; kokanee up to 18 inches, and some Atlantic salmon in the creel as well.
ELK LAKE: Anglers are reporting good brook trout action along fair kokanee catches. Kokanee are running 10 - 12 inches.
FALL RIVER: Reports of fair success on rainbow trout up to 19 inches.
HAYSTACK RESERVOIR: Good numbers of 16-18 inch brown trout are available. Rainbow trout, kokanee, largemouth bass, black crappie and brown bullhead are also available.
HOOD RIVER: Steelhead fishing on the Hood River is slow, but fish numbers continue to increase in the river. Visibility on the Hood is still decent for fishing. Spring chinook season is still open on the Hood River.
HOSMER LAKE: Fair action on Atlantic salmon. Hosmer Lake is a fly angling only fishery.
LAKE BILLY CHINOOK: Kokanee angling has been good with most fish being caught in the Crooked and Deschutes Arms. Both jigging and trolling has been effective. Fish are averaging 10-12 inches. Few people are targeting bull trout, but opportunities are good. Smallmouth bass angling has been excellent, however fish are small. ODFW is conducting a study on smallmouth bass. Please report tagged fish caught to ODFW at 388-6444 ext.26 (include date, tag # and location caught). A Tribal fishing permit is required for the Metolius Arm as well as a State license.
LAKE SIMTUSTUS - Angling for 8-14 inch rainbow trout with the occasional larger fish is excellent. Kokanee are also present in the reservoir with fish up to 16 inches available. A Tribal fishing permit is required as well as a State license.
LAURANCE LAKE: Laurance Lake, located near Parkdale, has been recently stocked with legal sized rainbow trout and should offer good trout fishing prospects.
LITTLE CULTUS: No reports. Good opportunity for brook trout and rainbow trout.
LITTLE LAVA LAKE: Anglers are having fair success on rainbow trout and the overall bite seems to have slowed a bit over the last week or so.
LOST LAKE: Lost Lake, located about 20 miles southwest of Hood River, has been recently stocked with legal and trophy sized rainbow trout and should offer good trout fishing prospects.
METOLIUS RIVER: Reports of good rainbow trout action.
ODELL LAKE: Kokanee angling has been fair.
OCHOCO RESERVOIR: Angling for rainbow trout 12-20 inches is fair. Brown bullhead angling in the east end of the reservoir has been excellent.Black crappie up to 10 inches are also available, however, angling has been slow.
OLALLIE LAKE: Ollalie Lake, located near the Mt. Jefferson Wilderness, has been recently stocked with legal and trophy sized rainbow trout and should offer good trout fishing prospects.
PAULINA LAKE: Anglers continue to report good catches kokanee. A number of smaller brown trout and some nice rainbow trout are also showing up in the creel.
PRINEVILLE RESERVOIR: Opportunities for 12-16 inch rainbow trout are good. Black crappie angling should be excellent with fish 6-9 inches available.
SOUTH TWIN LAKE: Good reports of angler success on rainbow trout.
SUTTLE LAKE: Suttle Lake has good opportunity for kokanee and brown trout though there are no recent reports on angler success at this time.
THREE CREEKS LAKE: Anglers are reporting good success for rainbows and brook trout.
WALTON LAKE -Opportunities are 8-15 inch rainbow trout are fair.
WICKIUP RESERVOIR: Anglers have reported fair brown trout catches. Anglers please note 2005 regulation change pertaining to Deschutes Arm of Wickiup Reservoir. Beginning July 15 through August 31 from the marker located near the West South Twin Boat Ramp upstream; the regulations are: Flies and lures only, 2 trout per day (including only 1 trout over 20 inches).
SOUTHEAST ZONE
FISHING
ANTHONY LAKE: Trout fishing has been good. Was re-stocked with legal rainbow trout the week of June 27.
BALM CREEK RESERVOIR: Should be good for rainbow trout.
BEULAH RESERVOIR: The reservoir level has dropped to 73 percent full. The boat ramp is accessible. Trout angling is slow.
BLITZEN RIVER: Angling should be good for redband trout. The river flow is dropping. Flow was approximately 108 cfs July 11. Remember, special regulations are in effect. Catch and release for trout from November 1 through May 27. Anglers may keep two trout per day from May 28 through October 31.
BULLY CREEK RESERVOIR: The reservoir is 86 percent full, and the boat ramp is accessible. Angling for warmwater fish is improving.
BURNS POND: Angling is fair for rainbow trout using worms, powerbait, or spinners.
BURNT RIVER - SOUTH FORK: Last stocked in May with legal rainbow trout. As water temperatures rise, anglers will have less success.
CHICKAHOMINY RESERVOIR: Fair angling for 13-16 inch rainbow trout, with a few larger trout caught. Fly anglers are doing best using black or green woolly buggers, and bait anglers are doing well with powerbait.
DELINTMENT LAKE: Angling has been fair 10 to 14 inch rainbow trout. Fly anglers have had the best success using small mayfly imitations or leech imitations. Spin anglers have had success using spinners or powerbait.
EAGLE AND WEST EAGLE CREEK: Will be re-stocked week of July 11 with legal rainbow trout.
FISH LAKE- Baker Co.: Brook trout angling is good. Stocked with 1150 legal and 40 trophy rainbow trout the week of June 20.
FISH LAKE (Steens Mountain): The loop road is open up to Fish Lake. Angling is good for brook trout and recently stocked rainbow trout. Anglers are doing best with spinners and worms.
FOURMILE LAKE: Angling for brook trout, rainbow trout, and lake trout is slow. Angling for kokanee is fair. Trophy brook trout are available, but are spread throughout the lake and challenging to catch. Fourmile Lake is approximately half full. Lake trout are growing slowly and most lake trout captured are around 10 inches.
GRANDE RONDE LAKE: Was re-stocked with legal rainbow trout week of June 27.
GERBER RESERVOIR: Crappie, yellow perch and brown bullhead are available and scattered through out the lake.
HAINES POND: Last stocked with rainbow trout in April and May. As water temperatures rise, angler will have less success.
HARNEY COUNTY BLM STOCK PONDS: Most ponds were nearly full, and should have held fish over the winter. No recent angling report, but trout angling should be fair using worms, spinners, or mayfly imitations.
HIGGINS RESERVOIR: The land owner has put a gate about 3/4 mile from the reservoir, which allows foot access only into the reservoir. Artificial flies and lures only. Trout fishing should be good.
HWY 203 POND: The pond was re-stocked with legal rainbow trout in early June.
JUNIPER LAKE: The lake was dry for the last few years, and has a little water this year. Unfortunately, there is not enough water to release fish.
KLAMATH RIVER: Angling for wild redband has been good on flies and lures.
KLAMATH AND AGENCY LAKES: Boat and bank angling for wild redband trout has been good. Anglers have had good success with bait, flies and lures at spring areas and in Pelican Bay.
KRUMBO RESERVOIR: Fair angling for rainbow trout. Bank anglers are doing best with powerbait or worms. Fly anglers are picking up some fish using leech imitations. Some mayflies are hatching on the lake, so small mayfly patterns may begin to work.
LAKE OF THE WOODS: Angling for perch and bass has been good through out the lake. Rainbow and brown trout angling has been good.
LONG CREEK RESERVOIR: Trout fishing has been good.
LOST RIVER: Angling has been fair for warm water game fish and bullfrogs.
MALHEUR RIVER (Warm Springs Reservoir downstream to South Fork Malheur River): Water release from Warm Springs reservoir was 462 cfs on July 10. Fishing is poor.
MALHEUR RIVER (South Fork Malheur River near Riverside, and mainstem downstream to Gold Creek): Flows downstream of Juntura are 785 cfs on July 10. Angling is poor.
MALHEUR RIVER, NORTH FORK: The upper North Fork is now accessible. Streams are low and clear. Trout angling is fair. Remember to release bull trout. Angling is restricted to artificial flies and lures upstream of Beulah Reservoir.
MALHEUR RIVER, MIDDLE FORK: The upper Malheur is now accessible. Streams are low and clear. Trout angling is fair. Remember to release bull trout. Angling is restricted to artificial flies and lures upstream of Bluebucket Creek.
MALHEUR RESERVOIR: The reservoir was not stocked this year.
MANN LAKE: Angling has been slow for cutthroat trout.
MILLER LAKE: Angling is fair for brown trout. Most large brown trout are feeding on kokanee in deep water. Some brown trout have been observed feeding near the shoreline, but are difficult to catch.
MOON RESERVOIR: Slow to fair angling for rainbow trout using spinners. The best angling is over the creek channel.
MURRAY RESERVOIR: Was last stocked with 2000 legal rainbow trout in May. As water temperatures rise, anglers will have less success.
OBENCHAIN RESERVOIR: Angling for bluegill is excellent. Largemouth bass are available, but angling is usually slow.
OWYHEE RESERVOIR: The reservoir is 83 percent full. All ramps are usable. Angling for bass and for small crappie is good.
OWYHEE RIVER (Lower): Flows below Owyhee Dam were 220 cfs on July 10. Angling for rainbows and browns is good.
OWYHEE RIVER (Upper): Flow at Rome was 291 cfs on July 10. Angling for smallmouth and channel catfish is fair.
NORTH MALHEUR BLM STOCK PONDS: Most ponds have carryover fish from previous years, so trout angling should be fair to good. Road access is good.
PHILLIPS RESERVOIR: Will be re-stocked with legal rainbow trout week of June 27. Reservoir level is 47 percent full.
PILCHER CREEK RESERVOIR: Trout fishing is good, and fish are of good size. The reservoir is 95 percent full. Crappie are large but bite is slow. Crappie angling should get better as the water warms up.
PINE CREEK: Open for trout fishing upstream of Oxbow Bridge in Baker County. Was re-stocked week of June 27.
North Fork PINE CREEK: Was re-stocked week of June 27.
POLE CREEK RESERVOIR: The reservoir was stocked with a twelve-hundred fingerling trout in May. Fishing is poor.
POWDER RIVER: Was re-stocked below Phillips Reservoir (Mason Dam) with legal rainbow trout week of July 4.
SNAKE RIVER: On July 10, flows near Nyssa were 7,219 cfs and flows near Weiser were near 9,637 cfs. Angling is good for catfish and fair for smallmouth bass.
SOUTH BLM STOCK PONDS: Most ponds were full or nearly full. Many were stocked with fingerling trout on June 1.
SPRAGUE RIVER: Angling has been fair on flies and lures.
SPRAGUE (NORTH FORK): Angling has been good for native redband trout up to 14". Golden stoneflies are hatching in good numbers. Angling for large brown trout is slow.
SPRAGUE (SOUTH FORK): Angling for native redband trout and brown trout has been slow.
SYCAN RIVER: Angling is fair on flies and lures.
THIEF VALLEY RESERVOIR: Fishing has slowed but fish are large. The reservoir level is 83 percent full.
TOPSY RESERVOIR: Angling for largemouth bass and crappie is fair. Most crappie angling is best towards JC Boyle Dam. Largemouth Bass can be found in the backwater coves. Angling for brown bullhead at night is good. Angling for native redband trout is very slow.
TWIN LAKES Baker County: Should be good for rainbow trout.
UNITY RESERVOIR: Trout fishing is fair. Crappie fishing has been good. The reservoir is 78 percent full. WARM SPRINGS RESERVOIR: The reservoir is 43 percent full. The ramp is no longer usable. No recent angling report. However, the reservoir reached dead pool last year, so fishing is probably slow to fair for warmwater fish.
WILLIAMSON RIVER (UPPER): Angling for wild redband trout has been good on flies and lures.
Wood River: Angling fair for brown and wild redband trout on both lures and flies.
WILLIAMSON RIVER (LOWER): Angling has been improving with a drop in river levels. The river is still slightly off color. As Upper Klamath Lake water temperatures increase, redband trout will begin to move into the Williamson River in good numbers. Hexagenia limbata (Big Yellow Mayfly) are beginning to emerge above highway 97.
WILLOW VALLEY RESERVOIR: Angling has been good for bass ranging from 8-12 inches.
WOLF CREEK RESERVOIR: Trout fishing is good, and fish are of good size. Reservoir level is 90 percent full.
WOOD RIVER: Angling is fair for brown trout and slow for native redband trout on both lures and flies.
YELLOWJACKET LAKE: The lake has been stocked with rainbow trout, and good numbers of trout survived the winter. Fair angling for 8 to 12 inch rainbow trout using flies or powerbait.
SUMMER LAKE WILDLIFE AREA
Hunting Report
Hunting seasons are closed and discharging firearms on the Wildlife Area is prohibited, except by permit.
Viewing Report
Viewing opportunities remain good as the breeding season continues. Birds are widely scattered throughout the Area at this time.
Waterfowl breeding season continues for all species. Canada goose breeding season is over. Most broods and early molting adults are flighted again and can be found scattered across the Area. Duck nest hatching continues and broods have become very obvious especially in the early morning and evening hours. Early nesting species such as mallard and cinnamon teal have young that are now flighted and many other broods nearing flight. There is considerable renesting taking place from earlier unsuccessful attempts. The later nesting gadwall are well into hatching and large broods of young ducklings are becoming very numerous.
Drakes of most species have formed large bachelor groups and will be undergoing the molt soon.
If nests or broods are found please move away from those areas quickly to reduce disturbance.
Pets should be leashed or under close control during this important time period for breeding waterbirds.
Shorebirds continue to been seen in good numbers in breeding and foraging locales. The Bypass and E. Link Units along the east side of the Area are good locations for viewing shorebirds. Nesting remains active and chicks of several species have been observed during the past week.
Viewers are urged to use caution to avoid trampling nests in locations where birds are present. Camping and parking areas as well as road shoulders receive considerable use by these adaptable birds. If nesting shorebirds are observed along roads please minimize time spent around nests to reduce disturbance. And again, please do not allow pets to run at large and keep them in close control at all times.
The breeding season is over for the early nesting long-billed curlew and western willets. Many of these species are assembling into flocks in preparation for migration or have departed the area. Large concentrations of these and many other species can be found along the north shore of Summer Lake.
Fall migrant shorebirds, probably failed or unsuccessful breeders, are staging in good numbers now and can be expected to increase over the next two months. Several migrant species such as black-bellied plover, long-billed dowitcher and semi-palmated plover were observed last week.
Other waterbirds are well into breeding season activities. Gulls, terns and white pelicans are commonly found. The more secretive rails are hard to observe but their calls are very common throughout the marsh and sometimes broods are observed.
Sandhill crane pairs remain on territories and brood rearing is underway. They are very secretive at this time of the year but unison calling in early morning remains common. Colts (young cranes) are becoming quite large now and most will fledge in the near future. Colts will remain in close association with their parents throughout their first year of life and these family groups are easy to recognize.
Wading birds such as egrets and night-herons can be found in good numbers throughout the shallow marsh areas and along canals forage fish more accessible. Fall staging and dispersal from other breeding locales will bring large numbers of many species to the Area over the next 2 months.
Raptors are scattered throughout the Area as well as on private lands along Highway 31. They will become increasingly apparent as hay is removed from privatelands and foraging opportunities on rodents and visibility in these areas will improve. Most are actively foraging to provide food for chicks that remain in nests. Northern harriers are especially numerous over marsh and meadow areas. Flighted northern harrier and short-eared owl chicks have been observed during the past week. Bald eagles are frequently observed on the Area. Osprey have nested again in the platform at Ana Reservoir and are very active in brood rearing efforts.
Passerine species are very common around the Headquarters Complex, Summer Lake Rest Area, homestead sites and shelterbreak plantings at the north end of the Area where they are attracted to the tree and shrub cover found at those locations. Several species of swallows are very numerous at the Headquarters Complex. Large post-breeding flocks are beginning to form for many species. Swallows are especially obvious and can be found roosting in tall emergent vegetation and foraging over marsh areas.
California quail are hatching and several broods have been observed recently.
Viewers are urged to check and report fall migrant arrivals and unusual or rare sightings on the observation sheet found at the Area Headquarters.
Warm and dry summer-time conditions are occurring now and evaporation rates have increased dramatically. Some ponds and canals are receding providing excellent shallow water foraging for many species.
Habitat is in excellent condition at present with considerable new plant growth very evident. Upland sites remain largely green with most grasses producing abundant seeds. Trees and shrubs are well leafed-out and some are producing fruit.
Major dike roads (Bullgate, Windbreak and Work Road) are closed to motor vehicle travel and will remain that way through August 15, 2005 to reduce disturbance to breeding waterbirds. Non-motorized travel on these dikes is permitted. The wildlife viewing loop will remain open into early fall providing excellent opportunities over a wide variety of habitats.
Other minor dike roads and trails remain closed to motor vehicles as is cross country travel by motor vehicles. Non-motorized access and viewing opportunities are available throughout the Wildlife Area at this time. Camping is permitted at 4 sites on the Area.
For additional information on viewing opportunities please contact the Wildlife Area at phone (541) 943-3152, fax (541) 943-3204, or email at odfwslwa@gooselake.com.
NORTHEAST ZONE
FISHING
GRANDE RONDE RIVER (LOWER): River flows are declining and trout fishing is fair to good.
IMNAHA RIVER (LOWER): River flows are declining and trout fishing is fair to good.
JOHN DAY RIVER: Smallmouth bass and channel catfish angling success is good. River flows as of July 11 are about 370 cubic feet per second, which will limit boating access. Flows in the 1,000 to 2,000 cubic feet per second range are best for drift boat and large rafts between Service Creek and Cottonwood Bridge. Stream flow levels are available from the Service Creek gauging station at http://waterdata.usgs.gov/or/nwis/uv?14046500.
JOHN DAY RIVER BASIN LAKES AND PONDS: With the arrival of warmer weather, angling success in lower elevation ponds and lakes (Rowe Creek, Anson Wright, Seventh Street, Long Creek, Morrow County RV Park, and Cavendar) has been poor.
JUBILEE LAKE: The lake will be stocked with legal-sized trout this week.
LADD POND: Located on the Ladd Marsh wildlife refuge. Was stocked in early June with 500 legal and 26 trophy rainbow trout. Angler success will slow as water temperatures rise.
MAGONE AND BULL PRAIRIE LAKES: Angling success has been fair for rainbow and brook trout. The best chance for catching these 10-12" fish will be early morning when surface water temperatures are coolest. For the remainder of the day and evenings, best success will be found by fishing deep.
MARR, VICTOR, WALLOWA WILDLIFE, HONEYMOON, TEEPEE, MCGRAW, AND SALT CREEK SUMMIT PONDS: Ponds have been stocked with legal and trophy size rainbow trout. Fishing success should be fair to good.
MORGAN LAKE: Was stocked with trophy and legal sized trout in June.
NORTH POWDER PONDS: As water temperature rises anglers success will slow down.
ROULET POND: Re-stocked in early June with legal size rainbow trout. As water temperatures rise, angler success will slow down.
STRAWBERRY WILDERNESS LAKES: Angling for brook trout has been good in Strawberry, Little Strawberry, Slide and Little Slide lakes.
UMATILLA RIVER: Anglers are reminded that targeted angling for bull trout is prohibited.
WALLOWA LAKE: Trout fishing is good. The lake will be stocked this week with legal size rainbow trout. Kokanee fishing is fair for anglers jigging or trolling between 20 and 40 feet deep. Kokanee are scattered in the lake and are small.
WALLOWA RIVER: River flows are declining and trout fishing is fair to good.
WILLOW CREEK RESERVOIR: The reservoir has been stocked with legal-sized trout. Fishing for trout and warmwater gamefish is fair.
WALLOWA LAKE: Trout fishing is good. The lake will be stocked this week with legal size rainbow trout. Kokanee fishing is fair for anglers jigging or trolling between 20 and 40 feet deep. Kokanee are scattered in the lake and are small.
WALLOWA RIVER: River flows are declining and trout fishing is fair to good.
WILLOW CREEK: Due to low stream levels only a small number of trout have been stocked in Willow Creek within Heppner.
WILLOW CREEK RESERVOIR: The reservoir has been stocked with legal-sized trout. Fishing for trout and warmwater gamefish is fair.
VIEWING
BRIDGE CREEK WILDLIFE AREA: Bridge Creek Wildlife Area main entrance gate is now open to allow access for wildlife viewing. Elk and deer have given birth and visitors are reminded to leave baby wildlife alone. Approaching to close, touching or moving any baby wildlife may ruin its chance for survival. Dogs are not permitted to run because of ground nesting birds. Visitors are reminded of road closures within the wildlife area. Camping is permitted within 300 feet of the main road.
COLUMBIA RIVER WILDLIFE AREAS: Game birds are nesting and rearing broods at this time. Dogs are not permitted to run at large and must be kept on leashes. Open fires are not permitted on wildlife areas because of fire danger. Please pack out all garbage.
ELKHORN WILDLIFE AREA: The wildlife area is open for visitors and remains open until December 1. Elk and deer have given are giving birth and visitors are reminded to leave all baby wildlife alone. Approaching to close, touching or moving any baby animal may ruin its chance for survival. Visitors are reminded of road closures within the wildlife area. The campground is now open. Campers are reminded of the 14 day limit per stay.
LADD MARSH WILDLIFE AREA: Wildlife viewing remains good as the nesting period continues at Ladd Marsh. Habitat conditions are excellent due to recent precipitation. Waterfowl broods and shore bird young are common throughout the area. Antelope continue to use the area east of Pierce Road and south of Highway 203. Fawn production was excellent this year. Shore birds including avocets, black-necked stilts and yellowlegs can be seen working the shorelines of the wetlands along Peach Road. Bank swallows have returned to their colony on the north end of Peach Road. Many raptors have young in the nest now. Short eared owls can be seen off of Pierce Road and the auto route. Sandhill crane colts can be seen south of the overlook on Foothill. Duck and goose broods can be seen throughout the marsh.
Most of Ladd Marsh remains closed through the nesting period. The areas that are open include the automobile route and walking trail at the Tule Lake area off of Peach Road, the Glass Hill area above Foothill Road and the nature trail just east of Interstate 84. Dogs are prohibited on the area during the nesting period.
IRRIGON WILDLIFE AREA: The Irrigon Wildlife Area Heritage trail is getting more use with the warmer weather. Remember to keep horses on main trail. A Wetland Enhancement project is scheduled to begin on/around mid July. There are three areas that are to be excavated. These Wetland areas (13 acres) will provide additional hunting, fishing and bird watching on the wildlife area.
UMATILLA NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE: Excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. Call 1-541-922-4661 for more information about the refuge.
WILLOW CREEK WILDLIFE AREA: The area has been planted with a mixture of upland game bird seed which will provide food and cover for the birds.
WENAHA WILDLIFE AREA: Deer & elk are scattered but can still be seen occasionally form the Eden Bench road. Big Horn sheep can be seen on the cliffs adjacent to the Grande Ronde River road. Birding is excellent at all elevations. The Wildlife Area is open to hunting during all legal seasons and for non-motorized recreation year round. Due to a State Parks Administrative Rule, open fires are prohibited year round with in 1/4 mile of the Grande Ronde River between Wildcat Bridge and the State Line. This area is designated as a scenic waterway. The area includes BLM lands as well as State owned lands. Fires are permitted if contained within fire pans, but all debris and ashes must be packed out
SNAKE RIVER ZONE
FISHING
BROWNLEE RESERVOIR: Smallmouth bass fishing has been very good. Large bass are found in 30-40 feet of water. Crappie fishing has been spotty but the fish are big (trolling is best right now). Catfishing is good. Perch fishing has been fair in coves. Trout fishing has been excellent near the mouths of streams. Bluegill angling has been good in the evenings. The reservoir is 10 feet below full. Call Idaho Power Company's recording at 1-800-422-3143 to get information on access at recreational sites or visit under the "Rivers and Recreation" heading. For reservoir level information, visit http://www.nwd-wc.usace.army.mil/perl/dataquery.pl?k=brownlee
HELLS CANYON RESERVOIR: Bass fishing has been great. Catfishing has been good. Crappie fishing has been spotty. Trout fishing has been great near stream mouths. Some large sturgeon have been caught in the reservoir lately (catch and release only).
OXBOW RESERVOIR: Bass fishing has been great. Catfish has been good. Trout fishing has been great near stream mouths. Crappie fishing has been spotty.
SNAKE RIVER, HELLS CANYON DAM TO THE STATE LINE: Smallmouth bass, trout, and catfish angling have been good. Catch and release for sturgeon has been good also.
COLUMBIA RIVER ZONE
FISHING
Please consult the 2005 Oregon Sport Fishing Regulation pamphlet for further information regarding the Columbia River Zone.
Salmon, Steelhead, and Shad: The following regulations are now in effect for the mainstem Columbia River salmon fishery from Buoy 10 upstream to the Oregon/Washington border above McNary Dam:
BUOY 10 LINE UPSTREAM TO THE ROCKY POINT/TONGUE POINT LINE: This section of the Columbia River is currently open to shad angling but closed to angling for salmon and steelhead. The Buoy 10 fishery will open Monday, Aug. 1, 2005 with a daily limit of two salmon but not more than one chinook.
THE ROCKY POINT/TONGUE POINT LINE UPSTREAM TO THE OREGON/WASHINGTON BORDER ABOVE MCNARY DAM: This section of the Columbia River is open seven days per week to the retention of chinook salmon, adipose fin-clipped steelhead and shad. The retention of chum and sockeye salmon is prohibited. The daily bag limit is two adult chinook salmon or adipose fin-clipped steelhead in combination plus five jack salmon. It is unlawful to angle for jack salmon after the adult bag limit has been reached. The fall salmon season will open Monday, Aug. 1, 2005 with a daily limit of two adult salmon or adipose fin-clipped steelhead in combination, plus five jack salmon. No more than one chinook may be retained and all coho must be adipose fin-clipped.
Salmon angler effort was greatest in the Portland to Longview and Gorge areas this past weekend. Boat anglers had the greatest success in the Gorge where anglers averaged 0.42 chinook and 0.55 steelhead caught per boat. Boat anglers in the Estuary also did well with 0.29 chinook and 0.71 steelhead caught per boat. In the Portland to Longview area boat anglers averaged 0.03 chinook and 0.10 steelhead caught per boat, and boat anglers in the Troutdale area averaged 0.05 chinook caught per boat. Bank fishing was slow for salmon, but showed some improvement for steelhead. Shad fishing is just about done in the Gorge.
Estuary Boat: Weekend checking showed four chinook and five adipos |
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