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WELCOME TO THE ODFW RECREATION REPORT
FISHING, HUNTING, WILDLIFE VIEWING
Nov. 12, 2014
Fall trout fishing continues
Yes, many rivers and streams closed to trout fishing after Oct. 31, but don’t put
away the trout gear quite yet. Lots of water bodies are open for trout year-round,
and this time of year the fish are feeding heavily in anticipation of winter. Check
out the zone reports for your best bet, and visit the Trout 365 page for some fall
fishing tips.
Steelhead fishing in NE Zone heats up
We’re getting reports of good steelhead fishing in the John Day, Grande Ronde and
Umatilla rivers. Check out the NE Zone reports for more details.
Rocky Mtn, coast elk seasons
Rocky Mtn elk 2nd season is Nov. 8-16. First coast elk season runs Nov. 15-18.
2014 Big Game and Bird Hunting Forecasts
Field biologists weigh in on what hunters should expect for bird and big game seasons.
Take a kid hunting
Kids age 9-13 who haven’t passed hunter education yet can still go hunting under
the Mentor Youth program. Youth hunts on an adult’s license and tag. Learn more.
Turkey hunting open in western Oregon until Dec. 31
There is still time to put a wild turkey on your Thanksgiving table. See our turkey
hunting page for tips.
Report big game and turkey tags
Don’t forget to report your hunt results no later than Jan. 31, 2015 for most hunts.
Report online or by phone (1-866-947-6339).
Hunters need to complete a report for each deer, elk, cougar, bear, turkey and
pronghorn tag purchased (or picked up as part of a Sports Pac)—even if they didn’t
hunt or weren’t successful. Deer and elk hunters who don’t report will have to pay a
$25 fine to get a 2016 hunting license.
FISHING
2014 Coastal coho and fall Chinook seasons
Now available on the ODFW Website.
Send us your fishing report
We’d love to hear about your recent fishing experience. Send us your own fishing
report through ODFW Fishing Reports―the information will be forwarded to the local
biologist who may use it to update various ODFW resources such as the Weekly
Recreation Report.
2014 trout stocking
The 2014 trout stocking schedule for the North Coast Watershed District is now
posted on-line on along with other districts on the ODFW trout stocking page.
Most rivers and streams closed to trout fishing on Oct. 31.
NORTH COAST LAKES
Trout stocking is complete for the year. Construction activities are winding down at
Town Lake, but a few tasks remain to be completed. Due to recent tampering at the
dam, the lake will have to be drawn down again to install the water control
headgate. The dock will be moved to accommodate the drawdown, and will be
inaccessible for a period of time.
MID COAST LAKES
The wild coho salmon fishery in Siltcoos and Tahkenitch Lakes is producing fair to
good results. Recent rain events and the pulsing of the lake levels have brought a
good number of coho into the lakes. The peak fish return is typically around late
October through mid-November.
A good rain event is normally needed to move fish up into the lakes so watch the
weather carefully. Anglers have success either trolling or casting lures such as
spinners, spoons, hot shots, mag warts or some type of rattle / wiggle bass plug.
Areas to focus on are near the lake outlets or the major tributaries to the lakes.
ALSEA RIVER: Chinook, coho,
The fall Chinook and wild coho fisheries are starting to slow down as many fish have
moved above the deadline to the spawning grounds. Anglers are having the best
success above tidewater either from a drift boat or bank fishing.
BIG CREEK: coho, steelhead
A few hatchery coho may still be around. Expect a few early winter steelhead to
show in the next few weeks.
KILCHIS RIVER: Chinook, coho, chum
Recent rains have brought Chinook and chum into the river. Flows may be getting low
and clear late this week depending on rainfall, so fishing should slow. Wild coho may be
harvested only downstream of Hwy 101 on Fridays and Saturdays through November.
NEHALEM RIVER AND NORTH FORK: Chinook, coho, steelhead
Chinook fishing should be fair to good depending on water conditions, with best
opportunity in upper tidewater or river areas. It is not too late to catch a wild coho
in the bay although most of the fish that had been holding there have now blasted
up river.
The bay remains open to wild coho retention through November. Trolling spinners
further up the bay or bobber and bait in tidewater and river holes can still be
effective this time of year. The North Fork Nehalem will be one of the first rivers to
clear and both hatchery coho and Chinook are available. Look for a few early
winter steelhead to show in the next few weeks.
NESTUCCA RIVER AND THREE RIVERS: steelhead, Chinook, coho
Fall Chinook fishing has been good. Fish are spread out through the lower river, and
new fish are still arriving. Bobber fishing or casting spinners will still produce fish in
upper tidewater areas, but river fishing with bait-wrapped plugs, drifted or backbounced baits, or bobber and bait will be the best bet over the next couple of weeks.
The wild coho fishery in the bay is open Sundays and Mondays through November.
Check with ODFW for details on seasons and bag limits. An early winter steelhead
could show later this month, especially in Three Rivers.
SALMON RIVER: Chinook
Fall Chinook fishing is slow to fair. Anglers are having the best results fishing the
head of tide up to the deadline. Many fish are in spawning condition this time of
year. Casting lures or floating bait under a bobber can be effective.
SILETZ RIVER: Chinook, coho, steelhead
Fall Chinook and coho fishing is slowing down with anglers having the best success
fishing the river between Illahee Park and Morgan Park. Many Chinook have moved
onto the spawning grounds or are in spawning condition. Fresh coho are still moving
in. Summer steelhead fishing is slow in the upper river above Moonshine Park.
SIUSLAW RIVER: Chinook, coho
The Fall Chinook and wild coho fisheries have slowed down especially in tidewater. Many
fish have pushed up river above the deadlines and onto the spawning grounds. Fishing
from the bank or drift boat above the head of tide should produce the best results.
TILLAMOOK BAY: Chinook, coho
Fishing for salmon is good as weather conditions and flows allow. Fall Chinook and a
few wild coho (when open) are being caught throughout the bay. On softer tide
series, troll herring in the lower bay. On stronger tide series, trolling herring or
spinners in the upper bay is a good bet. Some anglers are finding success in the
west channel. Fish are moving through the bay quickly with high water flows. The
wild coho fishery in the bay is open Fridays and Saturdays through November.
Check with ODFW for season and bag limit details.
TRASK RIVER: steelhead, Chinook, coho
Fishing for Chinook has been good as good numbers of Chinook are available
throughout the system. Most of the hatchery coho have already entered the
hatchery. The Hatchery Hole opened on Oct. 16 to take advantage of strong returns.
An occasional summer steelhead is still being caught.
WILSON RIVER: steelhead, Chinook
Fishing for fall Chinook was very good late last week. Colder weather and lower
flows may slow the bite this week, but look for continued good opportunity for
several more weeks. Spinners (sizes 4-6) cast from the bank should produce fish
as well as bobber and bait set-ups. Bait wrapped plugs or back bouncing from
boats can be very effective also.
YAQUINA RIVER: Chinook, coho
Fall Chinook fishing is slow to fair with anglers having the best results in upper
tidewater. Many fish have migrated upriver onto the spawning grounds.
The wild coho salmon fishery is also slowing down as many fish have migrated up river
towards the spawning grounds. Bright fish can still be caught through tidewater.
NORTH COAST HUNTING
OPEN: COUGAR, BLACK BEAR, COAST ELK (1ST Season Nov. 15-18) GROUSE,
QUAIL, WATERFOWL (see regs)
Use the Oregon Hunting Map to see where to hunt.
See the bird and big game hunting forecasts.
The first coast Elk rifle season opens on Nov. 15 and goes four days through Nov.
18. Bulls should be available in good numbers as carryover from last year was above
average. Weather conditions will determine hunter success to a large extent.
Duck season goes through Jan. 25, 2015. The overall liberal bag limit with some
species restrictions, continue this fall. See the 2014-15 Oregon Game Bird
Regulations for details. More migratory ducks are present now than earlier in the
fall, and the weather has been generally more conducive to productive hunting.
Some of the best hunting occurs during the onset of stormy weather when ducks
are moving around a lot.
Forest grouse and mountain quail is likely to be fair as it appears that there
was not a strong hatch of young that have survived into the fall. If hunting for
grouse, look for ruffed grouse on mid-slopes and along riparian areas, and sooty
(blue) grouse are usually found at higher elevations on ridge tops. Mountain quail
are most often found in brushy clear-cut areas on south or west facing slopes.
Black Bears should be in good numbers in the northern Oregon coast range,
especially in the southern portion of the Trask WMU. With warm weather during
the day, bears are most active in forest openings in the early morning and late
evening hours. Predator calling, especially during the middle of the day, can be
very productive. In general, when scouting for bears look for areas with lots of
wild berry crops, such as huckleberries, or abandoned orchards as they are very
opportunistic foragers.
Cougar are most effectively taken by using predator calls. However, cougar
densities are relatively low on the north coast. Successful hunters, remember you
must check in cougar (hide and skull) at an ODFW office within 10 days of harvest
and bring them in unfrozen. It’s also a good idea to prop their mouths open with a
stick after harvest for easier tissue sampling, teeth collection and tagging. See
regulations for details.
NORTH COAST VIEWING
Migratory waterfowl have been moving into the north coast area in recent weeks,
and a wide variety of ducks and geese are now available for viewing in and around
north coast estuaries, including the lower Columbia River. More birds should be
coming in as storms further north develop.
TILLAMOOK COUNTY
Substantial numbers of great egrets are now in Tillamook County, where they
should be present in farm fields and along estuaries in the county through the
winter months. These large white birds are easy to spot as they usually provide a
strong contrast to their surroundings, and can often be seen foraging in close
proximity to great blue herons.
CLATSOP COUNTY
Jewell Meadows Wildlife Area
Elk viewing has been good at Jewell Meadows Wildlife Area. The breeding season or
“rut” has wound down, but some bulls are still with the larger herds and occasional
bugling in the evenings is still being heard. With the onset of fall, larger bulls should
start to segregate themselves from the herds and hang out in bachelor groups. Elk
have been visible most mornings and evenings, depending on the weather. With
cooler temperatures, elk are staying out in the fields a little later in the morning and
returning a little earlier in the evenings. Good places to look are the Fishhawk Tract
along Hwy 202 and the Beneke Tract along Beneke Creek Road.
Visitors are reminded that areas posted as “Wildlife Refuge” are closed to public
entry and posted portions of the Beneke Tract are closed to entry during elk seasons.
Black-tailed deer hunting only is allowed on portions of the Beneke Tract during the
general Western Oregon rifle deer season. Consult the 2014 Big Game Regulations
for additional information and exceptions. Wildlife Area Parking Permits are now
required on the wildlife area.
FISHING
Weekend fishing opportunities
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Chinook fishing in the Chetco has been very good.
With the recent rains, wild coho should be moving into Tenmile Lakes.
2014 Coastal coho and fall Chinook seasons
Now available on the ODFW Web site.
2014 trout stocking
The 2014 trout stocking schedule for the SW Zone is available on-line.
Send us your fishing report
We’d love to hear about your recent fishing experience. Send us your own fishing
report through ODFW Fishing Reports -- the information will be forwarded to the
local biologist who may use it to update various ODFW resources such as the Weekly
Recreation Report.
AGATE LAKE: largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, bullhead
Agate Lake is less than 3 percent full and the boat ramp is no longer usable. An
estimated 130-acre feet of water remains for anglers wanting to fish for bass and
panfish from shore. Fishing has likely slowed with cooler weather. Jackson County
Parks closes the park at dusk this time of year.
APPLEGATE RESERVOIR: largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, trout
Applegate Reservoir is 18 percent full. The Hart-tish facility and boat ramp are closed
for the season. The Copper ramp may not be usable, but the low water ramp at
French Gulch will still be accessible. Cooling temperatures should mean improving
conditions for trout anglers now and into the fall.
The Oregon Health Authority issued an advisory recommending that people limit
their consumption of largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, yellow perch, bluegill, and
crappie taken from Applegate Reservoir due to elevated levels of mercury. Trout are
not included in the advisory and remain a healthy choice for those wanting to retain
fish for the table.
APPLEGATE RIVER: rainbow and cutthroat trout, winter steelhead
The Applegate River is open for trout fishing with a bag limit of two adipose finclipped rainbow trout per day. All other trout must be released. The river is closed
to fishing for steelhead and salmon.
ARIZONA POND: rainbow trout
Pond levels have been lowered to help control aquatic vegetation.
BEN IRVING RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, bass, bluegill, yellow perch, crappie
The reservoir was stocked with about 3,500 trout during March and another 500 trout
were stocked in April. An additional 1,000 trout were stocked the first week of September.
Warmwater fishing for bass and crappie will be best around the edges where there is some
structure. Jigging with crappie tubes in the electric motor section has been successful.
CHETCO RIVER: Chinook
Temporary regulations have been adopted for the Chetco River starting Sept. 1,
2014. Anglers should check these regulation changes prior to fishing the river.
Temporary gear restrictions are no longer in effect. As of Nov. 4, anglers can fish the
Chetco River per zone regulations. Chinook anglers are still under bag restrictions of
1 wild adult Chinook per day and 5 wild adult Chinook year.
Chinook fishing has been really good this year, with many anglers catching multiple
fish a day. Chinook are spread throughout the river, with no area better than
another. A few steelhead have been caught.
Chetco River flows near Brookings
COOPER CREEK RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, bass, bluegill, yellow perch, bullhead
Cooper Creek was stocked with about 9,000 trout and received an 2,000 additional
trout for fall fishing. Some of the trout do have copepods which are tiny parasites on
their bodies and gills. These are not harmful to humans, but the lesions can be
removed and the meat should be thoroughly cooked.
COOS COUNTY Lakes/Ponds: trout
Bradley Lake, Saunders Lake, Powers Pond, Middle Empire Lake, and Butterfield Lake
were all stocked this month with fall “trophy” trout. Anglers are having the best
success catching trout fishing PowerBait near the bottom. A few anglers are catching
trout by casting small spinners or spoons.
COOS RIVER BASIN: Dungeness crab, bay clams, trout, salmon
Trout season in the Coos Basin rivers closed on Oct. 31. Trout season will open again
in the end of May 2015.
The wild coho season is open in the Coos Basin until Nov. 30. The daily bag limit for
wild (unclipped) coho is 1 per day and 2 for the season. Anglers are still catching a
mixture of dark and bright salmon in the Coos River, Millicoma River, and South Fork
Coos River. There are still a few bank anglers catching chinook at the mouth of
Daniels Creek, Isthmus Slough, and the Coos Bay Boardwalk.
Crabbing in Coos Bay has been good with boat crabbers picking up limits. The best
crabbing has been near the jetties but crabbers are getting legal size crab all the way
up to the BLM Boat Ramp.
Clamming is excellent during low tides near Charleston, off Cape Arago Highway, and
Clam Island. There are also good places to dig clams even on positive low tides in
Coos Bay. For more information on shellfish in Coos Bay click on the following link:
Shellfish Assessment of Coastal Oregon. Before any shellfish harvest trip, make sure
to check the Oregon Department of Agriculture website for any updates.
COQUILLE RIVER BASIN: trout, salmon,
Trout season in the Coquille Basin rivers closed on Oct. 31.
The wild coho season is open in the Coquille Basin until Nov. 30. The daily bag limit
for wild (unclipped) coho is 1 per day and 2 for the season. Anglers are still catching
a few bright chinook salmon near the towns of Coquille and Mrytle Point. Most of
the salmon are being caught with fishing eggs or sand shrimp.
DIAMOND LAKE: trout
Fishing has been improving. The lake is cooling down and the fish are moving around
more. Most of the fish are 12 to 14-inches, but larger fish are also being caught. The
fish are very plump and healthy! Mealworms and PowerBait have been successful.
The Forest Service campgrounds are closed for the season. Boats can still be
launched from the north boat ramp near the Resort. Anglers can check fishing
conditions at Diamond Lake on their website, or call their toll free number at 1-800733-7593, ext. 236 or 238 for updates.
ELK RIVER: Chinook
Chinook salmon are spread throughout the lower river. Anglers can call Elk River
Hatchery information line (541) 332-0405 for river height and color. The river fishes
best at 5 feet and dropping.
EMIGRANT RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, largemouth and smallmouth bass, crappie
The reservoir is currently 9 percent full and the boat ramp at the county campground
is no longer in use. Anglers fishing from personal watercraft like float tubes or fishing
from shore should have good luck on trout, bass and panfish now and into the fall.
EXPO POND: trout
Expo Pond was recently stocked with 100 one-pound and 500 legal-sized trout.
Fishing should be good.
FISH LAKE: rainbow trout, brook trout, spring Chinook
Water levels at Fish Lake have dropped below the Bureau of Reclamation measuring
gauge, and trailered boats can no longer launch at the lake. Fish Lake was a natural
lake before the dam was built, however, so fishable water will remain through the
fall. Trout anglers may want to give places like Fish Lake a try from the shore or from
small watercraft or float tubes. In addition to stocked rainbow trout, anglers can
catch land-locked Chinook salmon, brook trout and tiger trout.
Fish Lake should be great for trout fishing in the coming weeks. The lake bottom
near the water line has crusted fairly well so that bank anglers can walk along the
shoreline with hiking boots or knee boots. When releasing the salmon and trout, be
sure to handle them gently and keep them in the water at all times, using barbless
hooks will help. Salmon were caught on Panther Martins, super dupers cast from
shore, and a streamer fly fished behind a casting bubble.
FLORAS LAKE: rainbow, cutthroat trout
Trout fishing is hit or miss depending on the wind. The best method for catching
trout is slow trolling flies or wedding ring spinners from a boat. Bank access is
limited. Anglers can launch at an improved boat ramp at Boice Cope County Park.
The lake can be very windy, so anglers will want to check the weather prior to
heading out. Boat anglers are reminded to clean all aquatic vegetation off their
boats and trailers before heading home to help control the spread non-native
plants and animals.
GALESVILLE RESERVIOR: rainbow trout, bass
In addition to trout, the reservoir has also been stocked with coho smolts for the
last couple of years. Many people mistakenly think these fish are kokanee. All of
the coho smolts are adipose fin-clipped, remember to release the ones less than
8-inches long. In Galesville Reservoir, all landlocked salmon are considered trout
and are part of the five-per-day trout limit, with only one trout over 20-inches
long allowed for harvest.
Galesville was stocked with about 8,000 trout this spring. The lake also received
some smolts so a few fish may be just shy of legal size for harvest. Fishing with
worms in brushy areas has been good for bass and some trout recently. Anglers are
reminded all bass between 12 and 15-inches must be released, and only one bass
over 15-inches may be taken per day. The reservoir is currently low. Call 541-8373302 for information on camping and boat launching conditions.
GARRISON LAKE: rainbow trout, cutthroat
Early morning or late afternoon is the most productive. Boat anglers will want to keep
an eye on the weather and fish the lake when there is no wind. Access for bank
anglers is best at the 12th Street boat ramp, Arizona Street, or along the foredune
accessed through Tseriadun State Park.
Garrison Lake is located in the middle of Port Orford. Boat anglers are reminded to
clean all aquatic vegetation off their boats and trailers before heading home to help
control the spread non-native plants and animals.
HEMLOCK LAKE & LAKE IN THE WOODS & Umpqua High Lakes: trout
Hemlock has received over 6,000 trout this season, including some large fish just
before the Labor Day holiday. PowerBait has been effective. Anglers fishing the high
lakes in the Umpqua District are encouraged to e-mail fishing reports. Most of the
Umpqua’s high lakes are off of roads that are not plowed during the winter. Contact
the Forest Service at 541-496-3532 for road conditions.
HOWARD PRAIRIE RESERVOIR:
Closed to fishing until April 25, 2015.
HYATT LAKE:
Closed to fishing until April 25, 2015.
ILLINOIS RIVER: trout, steelhead
The Illinois River is open to fishing for trout and steelhead. Anglers are restricted to
artificial flies and lures only, and only adipose fin-clipped rainbow trout may be
retained. Since anglers are unlikely to catch steelhead or fin-clipped trout this time
of year, the Illinois currently offers catch-and-release fishing for cutthroat trout.
Illinois River flows at Kerby
LAKE MARIE: rainbow trout
The lake was stocked with over 5,000 trout this year. Most anglers use PowerBait or
worms. The lake also received some Labor Day lunkers and was stocked again the
first week of September.
LAKE SELMAC: trout, largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie
Selmac was recently stocked with 1,200 one-pound rainbows and fishing should be
good for trout. Fishing for warmwater species has likely slowed with cooler weather.
LEMOLO RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, kokanee
Lemolo was stocked with about 8,000 trout in late spring and received about 1,500
nice 14-inch trout in time for Labor Day. Fishing has been good. Brown trout are
being caught and the rainbows are 12 to 16-plus inches depending on the stock.
People are also catching kokanee, by trolling deeper water with a small spoon and
single hook. The reservoir is drawn down, so only Poole Creek boat ramp is still open
and it is becoming more suitable for smaller boats. From Nov. 1 – Dec. 31, all brown
trout must be released. Rainbow trout and kokanee can be harvested for the 5 trout
limit. Only 1 trout over 20 inches can be harvested per day. For information on
fishing conditions, contact Lemolo Lake Resort at 541-957-8354. The Forest Service
campgrounds are closed for the season.
LOON LAKE: rainbow trout, bass, bluegill
Loon Lake has been stocked with nearly 8,000 trout. The lake is also providing good
fishing for crappie, bluegill and bass. The boat ramps are closed for the season.
LOST CREEK RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, spring Chinook, bass
Lost Creek Reservoir was recently stocked with rainbow trout. The surface
temperature was 53F Monday morning. Trout anglers will probably want to fish deep
in the main body of the reservoir. Trout fishing is probably still best upstream of the
Hwy 62 Bridge. A report received in late October stated fishing was great for trout
trolling flashers with a wedding ring. Lost Creek Reservoir is 40 percent full. All boat
ramps are accessible.
MEDCO POND: rainbow trout, largemouth bass, bluegill
Trout fishing should improve as lake waters cool in the fall. Fishing for warmwater
species has likely slowed with colder weather.
PACIFIC OCEAN AND BEACHES: bottomfish, Dungeness crab, salmon, halibut,
The ocean is closed for harvest of Dungeness crab through Nov. 30. Fishing for
bottom fish, including rockfish and lingcod opened back up to all depths starting
Oct. 1. The marine fish daily bag limit is seven fish and a separate daily limit for
lingcod (two). Retention of cabezon is now allowed but only one cabezon per day
per angler. Ocean salmon and nearshore halibut closed for the year on Oct. 31.
PLAT I RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, warmwater fish
In addition to trout fishing, the lake also has good bullhead fishing. Bass can be
harvested from March 1 to Oct. 31 and are catch-and-release only from Nov. 1Feb. 29. The reservoir received about 4,500 trout this year. The water level in the
reservoir is currently low.
Some of the trout do have copepods which are tiny parasites on their bodies and
gills. These are not harmful to humans, but the lesions can be removed and the
meat should be thoroughly cooked.
REINHARDT POND: trout
Reinhardt Pond was recently stocked with 100 one-pound and 250 legal-sized trout.
Fishing should be good.
ROGUE RIVER
Rogue River, lower: half-pounders, steelhead, Chinook
Slow.
Rogue River, middle: steelhead, trout
Releases from Lost Creek Reservoir have dropped for the fall, and the flow at Grants
Pass was 1380 cfs on Monday morning. The water temperature was averaging about
51F. Summer steelhead are available, and fishing should be good. Always keep the fish
in the water when looking for fin marks or taking photos, and release fish quickly. Only
adipose fin-clipped fish may be harvested.
Anglers are reminded that the area from Hog Creek boat landing to the Fishers Ferry
boat ramp is closed to the harvest of Chinook salmon starting Oct. 1, 2014.
Rogue River, upper: steelhead, trout
Anglers are reminded that beginning Nov. 1, the river opens to the use of lures
and bait as well as flies upstream of the Shady Cove boat ramp to the deadline at
Cole Rivers Hatchery. Also beginning Nov. 1, from Fishers Ferry boat ramp upstream to
the Shady Cove boat ramp, the river opens to the use of lures as well as flies. Consult
the synopsis for more information. Anglers may want to try nymph patterns, or a big
stonefly pattern in combination with a smaller nymph, or standard steelhead patterns.
All other trout must be released unharmed. Always keep the fish in the water when
looking for fin marks or taking photos and release fish quickly. Only adipose fin-clipped
fish may be harvested.
Releases from Lost Creek Reservoir have dropped for the fall. The release from Lost
Creek Reservoir was 1085 cfs and the water temperature was 43F the morning of
Nov 10. The water temperature at Gold Ray was averaging about 48F. As of Nov 4,
1,391 summer steelhead had entered Cole Rivers Hatchery.
Rogue River, above Lost Creek Reservoir: trout
Trout are still available in the waters above Lost Creek Dam! Fish stocking has ended
for the year upstream of Lost Creek, but fishing remains open and should be very
good. Anglers can fish bait like single salmon eggs or worms, or cast small spinners
like a Panther Martin or Rooster tail, or let a fly drift downstream below a bobber.
In addition to the stocked trout, naturally produced rainbow, cutthroat, brown, and
brook trout are available in the river and in many tributaries. Plentiful trout, beautiful
scenery, easy access, and an abundance of Forest Service campgrounds and day-use
areas make this a great place to go trout fishing.
SIXES RIVER: Chinook
Chinook are scattered throughout the river with new fish moving in daily.
SMITH RIVER, Umpqua: steelhead, sturgeon, striped bass
Fall Chinook will continue moving up the Smith as fall progresses and provide an
excellent bobber fishery.
SODA SPRINGS RESERVOIR:
Closed to fishing.
TENMILE BASIN: yellow perch, coho salmon
Yellow perch are biting on nightcrawlers or jigs tipped with a worm in Tenmile Lakes.
Yellow perch will be concentrated in big schools in deep water. Sometimes anglers
need to try several spots before finding the bigger fish. There are lots of smaller yellow
perch that anglers have to sort through to catch enough keepers for a meal. Some of
the keeper yellow perch are over 12-inches long.
Anglers have been catching bright coho in the upper arms of South Tenmile Lake.
Casting or trolling spinners has been the most productive way to catch coho. The wild
coho season opened Oct. 1 in Tenmile Lakes. The bag limit for wild coho in Tenmile
Lakes is 1 wild coho adult per day and a total of 5 wild adult coho for the season in
aggregate with other NW and SW Zone waterbodies. Anglers are also allowed 1 wild
coho jack per day.
TOKETEE LAKE: brown trout, rainbow trout
Fishing is open in Toketee year-round. The boat ramp is currently closed and the
reservoir is partially drawn down. For more information call the U.S. Forest Service
at 541-498-2531.
UMPQUA HIGH LAKES AND FOREBAYS: trout
Clearwater Forebay #2 received nice 14-inch trout in time for Labor Day. For brook
trout anglers should try Cliff, Buckeye, Skookum (North Umpqua), Maidu, Twin and
Wolf lakes. Linda, Pitt Lake, and Calamut have been stocked with a native rainbow
for the last couple of years. Bullpup and Fuller still have brook trout, but were also
recently stocked with some fingerling native rainbows.
Most of these lakes are off Forest Service Roads that are not plowed during the
winter. Contact the Forest Service at 541-957-3200 for road and trail conditions.
UMPQUA RIVER, MAINSTEM: steelhead
The wild coho season below Scottsburg Bridge was closed Oct. 2. There are still
some hatchery coho moving through the system and fall chinook but the season is
winding down. Only fin-clipped adult and jack coho can now be harvested. Most of
the chinook are fairly dark now and ready to spawn. The mainstem Umpqua is closed
to wild steelhead harvest, but remains open year-round for adipose fin-clipped
steelhead. This fishery is primarily catch-and-release since the number of hatchery
fish is relatively low compared to the number of wild fish. The summer steelhead run
is mostly over in the Main, and the winter steelhead will start arriving later this
month, on through the winter. People interested in harvesting a steelhead should fish
the North Umpqua for summer steelhead. The mainstem closed to trout fishing
starting Nov. 1.
The “50 Places to go fishing within 60 minutes of Roseburg,” handout which is
available online or at the office, identifies several good places for salmon and
steelhead fishing.
Umpqua River flows near Elkton
UMPQUA RIVER, NORTH: steelhead
Rock Creek Hatchery is once again open for visitors. The hatchery is open to visitors
from 7:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. The new RockEd facility is lacking displays, but can
be opened on request by calling the hatchery at 541-496-3484. Remember all wild
steelhead must be released unharmed. Anglers are getting some summer steelhead
in the Narrows and Swiftwater areas. Both hatchery and wild steelhead have been
caught. Steelhead are also up in the fly waters and anglers are fishing the area
more. Trout fishing is now closed for the season.
Note that from Oct. 1 through June 30, fishing in the fly water area is restricted to a
single barbless artificial fly which can be dressed with conventional fly tying material.
Remember that from March 1 through July 31 the anti-snag gear restrictions apply
on the North from the Lone Rock boat ramp upstream to the fly area boundary above
Rock Creek. The Mainstem from Soda Springs Dam, including Soda Springs
Reservoir, up to Slide Creek Dam is closed year-round to fishing.
North Umpqua River water levels at Winchester Dam
UMPQUA RIVER, SOUTH:
The South Umpqua will be closed for all fishing from Sept. 16 through Nov. 30.
WILLOW LAKE: rainbow trout, largemouth bass, black crappie, brown bullhead
At 43 percent of capacity, Willow Lake has the most water among all irrigation
reservoirs in the Rogue watershed to date. Trout are available, though fishing for
warmwater species is likely slowing with colder weather.
WINCHESTER BAY: chinook, fin-clipped coho
The wild coho season in the Umpqua closed October 2. Now only fin-clipped adult
and jack coho can be retained as part of the daily salmon limit. Harvest information
for other basins will be posted regularly on the ODFW website. Success and effort by
bank anglers at Salmon Harbor, Half Moon Bay and Osprey Point is slowing down.
Most salmon have already moved upstream. Fishing for bottomfish in the Triangle
and South jetty has been successful. Crabbing has been good recently.
WINCHUCK RIVER: closed
The river is closed to all fishing Aug. 1 to Dec. 31, 2014. The river was closed due a
forecasted low return of fall Chinook salmon.
SOUTHWEST ZONE HUNTING
OPEN: COAST ELK (1st season Nov. 15-18, see regs), ARCHERY DEER (Nov.
15-Dec. 7, see regs) GROUSE, QUAIL, TURKEY, COUGAR, BLACK BEAR
See the bird and big game hunting forecasts.
Wolves and coyotes can look alike
Most wolves in the state today are in northeast Oregon but a few have dispersed
further west and south. Wolves are protected by state and/or federal law and it is
unlawful to shoot them. Coyote hunters need to take extra care to identify their target
as wolves can look like coyotes, especially wolf pups in the mid-summer and fall.
ODFW appreciates hunters’ assistance to establish wolves’ presence in Oregon; please
report any wolf sightings or wolf sign to ODFW using the online reporting system.
Use the Oregon Hunting Map to see where to hunt.
COOS COUNTY
Duck and Goose season in the goose Southwest Zone and duck Zone 1 opened
October 11. Canada goose numbers appear to be good in the local area so hunting
for them should be good. Hunters will find these birds will be attracted to green
grass. The flocks are generally habitual about where they go to feed during the day.
So, scouting for these areas is beneficial for hunters. With the onset of stormy
weather duck numbers appear to be improving. However, rain has caused flooding in
agricultural lands in Coos County. This appears to have caused birds to scatter to
some extent. As the season progresses waterfowl numbers should continue to build.
Elk populations and bull ratios are at or above management objectives in many units
in the local area. Hunters will find that as hunting pressure occurs elk will move away
from roads and into more secluded locations such as un-roaded creek drainages. Still
hunting places with low road densities or behind gated roads where access is allowed
is the best method to score on a bull. While elk use clearcuts extensively for feeding,
hunting pressure will cause them to become more secretive and less likely to be
found during daylight hours there. Elk hunters who will be hunting units in Coos
County and the western portion of Douglas County need to be aware that access
may have changed for some private lands. Hunters need to contact landowners to
ensure lands ore open even if the hunter has hunted there in past years. Don’t
assume private land is open, check to make sure that it is.
Grouse and Quail seasons continue. This summer was a good one for grouse and
quail production. Broods seemed to have survived well. However, the past several
years of poor survival for these young birds has resulted in populations that are
low and that will need several good years of reproductive success to rebound.
Hunters will find the best hunting for both quail and grouse on closed roads on
public land. Grouse will generally be found near streams and quail will generally be
found neat ridge tops, with the exception of Valley quail, which are usually found
near agricultural lands.
Black Bear - General Bear season continues thru Dec. 31. Bear populations are
robust in much of Coos County and offer opportunities for hunting. Due to the
time of year and rain black berries are in low abundance and bears are no longer
concentrating on them. Many landowners are complaining of bears damaging
apple and other fruit trees. With landowner permission good hunting for bears can
be found around isolated orchards. With cooler wet weather occurring bears will
not be active for much longer.
Cougar hunting is open. Hunters can expect an average year. Cougars are abundant
throughout with indicators pointing to stable or increasing numbers. Hunting cougar
is a challenge because these animals are very secretive, but harvest success is
greatest adjacent to private land with high deer populations using a predator call.
DOUGLAS COUNTY
BIG GAME
General bow season re-opens from November 15th - December 7th in the Melrose and
Evans Creek units for Douglas County. Also, the controlled Melrose-N.Sixes
muzzleloader deer hunter in SW Oregon is open from Nov. 15th – 23rd.
Elk - General coast bull 1st season opens November 15th for the Melrose and Siuslaw
units in Douglas County. Elk populations are similar to last year so this hunting year
will be average. Also, the controlled SW Cascade muzzleloader elk hunter in SW
Oregon is open from Nov. 15th – 21st.
Cougar Cougar season is open. Hunters can expect an average year. Cougars are
abundant and widely distributed. Hunting success is best around high deer
population areas using a predator call.
Bear – General bear season is open. Hunters can expect an average year. Some nice
size bears have been harvested in the last few weeks. Successful bear hunters are
reminded there is a mandatory check-in for all harvested bear within 10 days of
harvest (see regulations for details).
UPLAND GAMEBIRDS:
Grouse & Quail - 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 – The season is currently open. Hunters can expect a good harvest
year. Most turkeys are on or adjacent to low-mid elevation private lands associated
with oak savannah habitat.
MIGRATORY GAMEBIRDS:
Crow – Crow season is 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.
WATERFOWL:
Duck hunting is open October 29th – January 25th. Goose hunting is Oct. 11th –
November 30th & Dec. 8th – Jan. 25th. Goose and duck hunters can expect an average
to above-average year. Hunting for resident goose and duck in Douglas County
should be very good because of an excellent production again this year. Nearly all
goose and duck hunting in the Umpqua Valley is on private property and hunters
should obtain landowner permission before hunting. Goose and duck hunters can
expect an average to above-average year. Local duck production is historically good
but small so a fair number of local ducks are available now with improved
opportunity as the fall migrating ducks arrive later in the season. Hunting for
resident geese in Douglas County should be very good because of an excellent
production again this year. Nearly all waterfowl hunting in the Umpqua Valley is on
private property and hunters should obtain landowner permission before hunting.
TRAPPING:
Furbearers –A reminder to trappers and hunters that specific licenses and tags are
required to hunt many furbearer species, and hunters should refer to the Oregon
Furbearer Trapping and Hunting Regulations for details. Currently, bobcat, fox and
raccoon pursuit season is open.
Bobcat - Healthy populations throughout Western Oregon. Harvest season is
currently closed but the season opens on December 1, 2014. Pursuit season is
currently open for bobcat.
River Otter, Beaver, Mink/Muskrat, Red Fox, Gray Fox & Raccoon – Healthy
populations throughout Western Oregon. The harvest season opened for red fox on
October 15, 2014. The harvest season opening for gray fox, mink/muskrat, river
otter, beaver and raccoon is November 15, 2013. Pursuit season is currently open for
fox and raccoon.
Marten – Good populations at higher elevations of the Cascades. The season is
currently open.
JACKSON, JOSEPHINE, CURRY COUNTIES
Youth hunters with Rogue Unit Youth Deer 630T tag, enter to win guided archery
deer hunt on C2 Ranch. Deadline Nov. 30.
Denman Wildlife Area: Remember to get your parking permit. Hunters get the
permit free with their purchase of an annual hunting license. Display on car dash.
Bear general season closes Dec. 31, 2014. Hunters can expect another average
year. Bear numbers continue to be abundant. The Applegate unit has one of the
highest harvests for the fall season in the state for the past several years. At this
time of year bear finding the last of the berry crops and again are eating the new
green grass along with acorns. The best times to look for bears are in the early
morning and late evenings. Successful bear hunters are reminded there is a
mandatory check-in for all harvested bear within 10 days of harvest (see regulations
for details).
Youth Elk season started Aug. 1 for units in our area and runs to the end of
December. This is a great opportunity for the youth to harvest an elk. These hunts
are designed to provide young hunters with a safe, well supervised, low-stress
setting where they can enjoy the hunt while building fundamental skills. Remember
youth must wear hunter orange.
ELK Coastal 1st season will open Nov. 15 thru Nov. 18. Hunters who plan to hunt the
Applegate unit should spend time scouting the unit for elk. The herds in the unit are
small and far between. Second season will be Nov. 22-28.
Elk – SW Cascades muzzleloader season opens November 15-21. The season should
be average. Current weather forecast shows rain for the season but if it snows
hunters will have more opportunity at locating elk. Remember that muzzleloader
hunters in the Dixon, Evans Creek and Rogue unit will not be able to take cows
within National Forest lands.
Deer season for archery hunters will begin November 15 and end December 7 in
Evans creek and Rouge units. Muzzleloaders season in the Applegate will also start
November 15 and end December 7. Buck ratios remain high, and success remains to
be good. Acorns are spotty this year and hunters should concentrate in elevation
below 3500 feet and lower where deer are finding these acorns. The rut typically
peaks around the week of Thanksgiving. Some sign of buck rutting activity has been
reported.
Fall Turkey season is from Oct. 15 – Dec. 31. Hunters can expect a good year. The
mild spring provided good survival of chicks and brood counts showed production up
from the last two years. Hunters are allowed to shoot either sex, and are allowed to
have two tags. Majority of our turkeys are found in low elevation and around private
lands, although a growing number are found in conifer stands that have meadows or
clear cuts.
Grouse and Quail - Both mountain quail and forest grouse numbers are higher this
year due to the mild spring, so hunters can expect a good year. Forest grouse can be
found in timbered creek draws and mountain quail will be found in brushy clear cuts
near water. A good bird dog will aid greatly in bird retrieval.
Waterfowl - Both Duck and Goose season is open. There will be a spilt in goose
season December 1-7 where it will be closed. The fall flight forecast calls for high
numbers of waterfowl, but weather conditions will determine migration patterns
and hunter success. The best waterfowl hunting at Denman Wildlife Area tends to
occur around the end of November; area managers continue to plant crops and
flood fields to attract waterfowl to Denman. Due to lower water in many of our
lakes and pond this year the Rogue River can be a little more productive. Hyatt
Lake, Howard Prairie and Agate Lake will have waterfowl but will be difficult to
hunt due to low water levels.
Pheasant - Statewide season started October 11 and will run through December
31. Pheasants on the Denman Wildlife Area will be few and far between now that
the fee season is over. Few pheasants are found in the Rogue valley but there are
some and they will be found on private lands. Be sure to ask for permission to
hunt these areas.
Wilson’s Snipe season opened November 1 – February 15. Snipe is another
challenging bird to hunt for they are small, fast and erratic low-flying birds that can
be hard to identify. Be sure to know how to differentiate it from killdeer and other
shorebirds before you hunt. Snipe may be spooked in areas where there are high
numbers of hunters but other times a person can walk up on them. Snipe almost
always emit a call when they take off in flight. The best time to hunt snipe will be
late fall and winter months. Denman Wildlife Area has decent numbers of snipe.
Cougar season is open statewide year-round or until zone quotas are met. Hunters
are encouraged to carry a cougar tag while hunting other animals; you never know
when an opportunity will come available. Most cougar hunters’ success comes from
predator calls.
Western Gray Squirrel is currently open until Nov. 12. The bag limit is five
squirrels. Except for the part of the Rogue Unit south of Rogue River and S. Fork
Rogue River and North of Hwy 140 where the season remains open year round with
no bag limit. Squirrels can be found in oak or mixed conifer stands. This is a great
animal to hunt for first time hunters.
Coyotes are abundant in our area. Remember to ask for permission to hunt on
private lands. This is the time of years rancher will welcome hunters to come onto
their property to take coyotes that are cause problems with live stock.
Furbearers – Pursuit season is currently open for bobcat, fox and raccoon. A
reminder to trappers and hunters that specific licenses and tags are required to
hunt many furbearer species, and hunters should refer to the 2012-14 Oregon
Furbearer Trapping and Hunting Regulations for details. Martin is currently open,
with population in high elevation strong and healthy. Gray Fox, Muskrat, Mink,
Raccoon, River Otter and Beaver open November 15. Population for gray fox and
raccoon is down due to distemper for the past two years.
SOUTHWEST ZONE VIEWING
COOS COUNTY
Sea Birds
Birds that are here for foraging include California brown pelicans, cormorants and
Western grebes. Great places to watch these birds and their activities are Coos Bay,
near Charleston and the Coquille Bay near the harbor in Bandon. Feeding birds can
be seen diving on baitfish in the bay and sometimes working in unison to corral fish
near shore. Occasionally other animals get in on the action when foraging birds have
located baitfish. Seals, sea lions, porpoise, and even whales will go after these fish
as birds are mounting attacks from above.
Marine Mammals
Seal and sea lion abundance in coastal waters around Coos County is high at this
time of year, especially south of Coos Bay. At Simpson Reef, a heavily used haul out
exists. From the lookout, viewers can see California sea lions, Steller sea lions,
harbor seals and elephant seals.
Do not approach seals and sea lions you may find on Oregon beaches. If you think
an animal you find is in trouble, contact your local ODFW office to report the animal
or contact the Marine Mammal Stranding Network an (800) 452-7888.
Shorebirds
Shorebird migration is in full swing. A large variety of birds can be found in local bays
and along beaches. Bandon Marsh National Wildlife Refuge is probably the best place in
Coos County to see these birds. The Bandon Marsh Unit is located immediately north of
Bandon and is probably the best part of the refuge to visit for shore bird observation.
Otherwise mud flats in Coos Bay, Winchester Bay (Douglas County) and the Coquille
Bay are great places to check.
Waterfowl
Waterfowl numbers are increasing in Coos County due to the season. Many flocks
of teal, widgeon and other ducks are beginning to congregate in places in local
bays. The best places to find good numbers of birds are where tide inundates
grassy areas. The islands around Coos Bay, Winchester Bay and the Coquille Bay
are good places to look for waterfowl. As the season progresses numbers of birds
will increase in the bays until flooding of inland agricultural lands causes birds to
disperse inland. 10/21/14.
CURRY, JACKSON, JOSEPHINE COUNTIES
EVENT
Rogue Valley Audubon Society
Project feeder watch has begun, where individuals and groups count birds that are
found at bird feeders. Project_Feeder_Watch,
http://www.roguevalleyaudubon.org/Project_Feeder_Watch.html
White-fronted geese
Many flocks of Greater White-fronted geese have been spotted in the valley flying
high heading towards Klamath Falls. Because they fly so high, it is easier to
recognize them by their unique call.
Ringtails
Ringtails are small, forest carnivores, nocturnal in habits, and secretive in nature.
Ringtails are common in South West Oregon, but rarely seen due to their nocturnal
behavior. They are buff to dark brown in color with white under parts and a black
and white striped tail. The ringtail prefers to live in rocky habitats associated with
water. Often known as Ringtail cat or Miner’s cat but they are not a cat they are in
the raccoon family.
Denman Wildlife Area
Hunting season starts Sept. 1 on the Denman Wildlife Area and will go into February.
Other recreational users are encouraged to wear bright orange or other bright
colored clothing and to stick to the trail systems. Be aware of hunters while watching
the wildlife on the area.
Denman Wildlife Area has had an increase of hawks, accipiters and buteos. Many
Northern Harriers, Red-tailed hawks, and Rough-legged hawks have been seen
hunting throughout the valley.
DOUGLAS COUNTY
Fish Passage
Coho Salmon are now migrating upstream and passing through Winchester dam fish
ladder on the N. Umpqua River which is open to the public. The best time to view
fish movement is from noon to 6pm. To view the migrating fish go to exit 129 on I-5,
proceed southeast on 99 to the fish ladder on the north side of the river.
Fish Spawning
Each year there is opportunity to observe wild Fall Chinook spawning along the South
Umpqua River and lower portion of Cow Creek. The South Umpqua has a large run of
Fall Chinook so look for them spawning on the major gravel bars from Roseburg to
Canyonville and on Cow Creek from Riddle to Byers.
Bald Eagles
Bald Eagles are now commonly seen along the mainstem portion of the Umpqua
River from Roseburg to Reedsport.
Buck Deer
Each year at this time bucks are in full rut so look for large bucks following does for
the next couple weeks.
Winter Raptors
Wintering raptors, especially red-tail hawks, are commonly be seen along highways
throughout the county.
FISHING
Weekend fishing opportunities:
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Coho are now moving over Willamette Falls and are being caught in the
Molalla and Santiam. Coho is now closed in several tributaries including the
Tualatin, Yamhill and South Yamhill rivers and Gales Creek.
Coho fishing is good to excellent in the Clackamas and Sandy rivers, where
the bag limit has been raised to three fish per day. Fish are also moving
into Eagle Creek in strong numbers.
Tagged trout, including some with $50 prize tags, have been released into Henry
Hagg Lake as part of a study to evaluate the trout stocking program. Information
collected from tags can be submitted online at the tag-reporting page.
Junction City Pond and St. Louis Pond #6 were stocked this week with 90
brood trout each. These fish are 10+ pounds apiece.
Trout fishing rivers and streams in the Willamette Zone closed on Oct. 31.
Send us your fishing report
We’d love to hear about your recent fishing experience. Send us your own fishing
report through ODFW Fishing Reports -- the information will be forwarded to the
local biologist who may use it to update various ODFW resources such as the Weekly
Recreation Report.
2014 trout stocking
The 2014 trout stocking schedules for the North Willamette Watershed (pdf) District
and the South Willamette Watershed (pdf) District are now posted on-line on the
ODFW trout stocking page.
Check out the new trout stocking map
Find the location and details about the many lakes ponds and streams that receive
hatchery trout from ODFW’s fish hatcheries on the new Google-based stocking map.
ALTON BAKER CANOE CANAL: trout
The Alton Baker Canoe Canal was recently stocked with a total of 1,110 fish,
including 110 larger trout. These fish are released at multiple locations along the
length of the Canal. This was the last stocking of the season. Alton Baker Canoe
Canal fish releases will resume in early February 2015.
The canal is located within Alton Baker Park and can be accessed off of Club Road
in Eugene. A 4-acre pond at the midpoint of the canal is a good spot but it can be
fished all along its 2-mile length from Day Island Road in Eugene to Aspen Street
in Springfield. The Canal is open to angling all year.
BENSON LAKE: rainbow trout, white crappie, largemouth bass, brown bullhead
This is a 40-acre lake located in Benson State Park in the Columbia River Gorge.
From Portland, head east on I-84, park is located on the south side of the freeway
approx. 1/2 mile west of Multnomah Falls.
BETHANY POND: rainbow trout, largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, bullhead
This is a 10-acre pond located at Bethany west of Portland. The pond is
maintained by Tualatin Hills Park and Rec. Amenities include picnic tables,
restrooms, and a paved, ADA accessible trail.
BLUE RIVER: trout, steelhead
Blue River both above and below Blue River Reservoir is closed to angling until
April 25, 2015.
BLUE RIVER RESERVOIR: trout, warmwater species
Blue River Reservoir has been drawn down for winter flood control. Blue River
Reservoir is located east of Eugene near the town of Blue River, north of Highway
126 and is open to year-round fishing.
BREITENBUSH RIVER: trout
This fishery is now closed for the year and will re-open on April 25, 2015
CANBY POND: rainbow trout
Canby Pond is a 1-acre pond located on the south end of Canby in Canby City Park. The
park is south of Hwy 99E and adjacent to the Molalla River. Angling restricted to
youth age 17 and under or holders of one of the Disabled Anglers permits.
CARMEN RESERVOIR: trout
Carmen Reservoir is accessed via FS Road 750 off Hwy 126, about 2 miles south
of Clear Lake, and is open to fishing all year. Motor boats are prohibited on
Carmen Reservoir.
CLACKAMAS RIVER: Coho, summer steelhead
Water levels continued to increase over the past week, further improving fishing
prospects throughout the system. Coho and summer steelhead are still the primary
targets and can be found throughout the river. Coho will bite if targeted when they
are moving; concentrate on riffles, pocket water, or holding areas adjacent to long
stretches of fast water. Unlike most years when getting coho to bite in the Clackamas
was a real struggle, this year the biters are in and catch is good. Fish are definitely
congregated near the mouth of Eagle Creek waiting to move into it with higher flows.
Summers should be concentrated mainly in the reach from Carver up to McIver Park
where acclimation ponds are found and recycled fish are available. Anglers fishing
around McIver Park are still picking up a few decent summers. The spring Chinook
fishery is over for the year.
CLEAR LAKE: trout
Clear Lake is open to fishing all year and was stocked in late August for the last time
this season. Naturally reproducing brook trout are also available. The lake is
accessed from Highway 126 approximately 70 miles east of Springfield.
Cabins and row boats are available for rent from Clear Lake Resort.
COTTAGE GROVE POND: trout, warmwater species
Cottage Grove Pond was last stocked in spring, but trout or bass may be available.
To access the pond, travel east from Cottage Grove on Row River Road. Cottage
Grove Pond is located behind the truck scales and may be accessed via an asphalt
pathway. Only the pond with the dock is stocked with hatchery trout. This pond also
offers wildlife viewing opportunities and is open to angling all year.
COTTAGE GROVE RESERVOIR: trout, warmwater species
Cottage Grove Reservoir was stocked in mid-October with 1,700 fish, including
200 “pounders.” Holdover trout and warmwater species are also available to
anglers. The reservoir is south of Cottage Grove and is open to angling all year.
NOTICE: The Oregon Health Authority has issued a health advisory updating
information about eating fish caught in Cottage Grove Reservoir. Under the
advisory issued June 5, 2012 people can safely consume up to nine meals per
month of hatchery-grown rainbow trout month that are 12 inches in length or less.
People can distinguish hatchery-grown rainbow trout by the absence of the
adipose fin, which is clipped before hatchery fish are released into streams and
reservoirs. Despite the new exception for rainbow trout, mercury contamination
for resident warm-water fish, including bass, bluegill, crappie and bullhead
continues to be a concern. Women of childbearing age, particularly pregnant or
breastfeeding women, children under six years of age and persons having liver or
kidney ailments should avoid eating any fish from this reservoir other than
rainbow trout. Healthy women beyond childbearing age, other healthy adults and
healthy children six years of age and older should eat no more than one 8-ounce
meal of fish other than rainbow trout per month.
CRESWELL POND (GARDEN LAKE): trout, warmwater species
The pond is located in Garden Lake Park on the east side of I-5 in Creswell and is open
to fishing all year. The pond and park offer additional wildlife viewing opportunities.
DETROIT RESERVOIR: trout, kokanee
This reservoir receives over 100,000 trout throughout the year. Stocking has
resumed for the season; 5,000 legal rainbow trout were planted during the week of
Sept. 22 and another 7,000 legal-size rainbow trout were stocked Oct. 7.
Only smaller kokanee are left after the larger adults have left to spawn in the creeks,
but there are still plenty of trout left. Currently the reservoir is about 80 feet below full
pool. The Low Water boat ramp at Mongold State Park is the only boat ramp available
at this time. Check with local outfitters in the town of Detroit for fishing conditions.
DEXTER RESERVOIR: trout
Dexter Reservoir was stocked in late September with 5,000 rainbow trout. This will
be the last release until early 2015. In addition to trout, some warmwater fish are
also available. The reservoir is adjacent to Highway 58 near Lowell and is open to
angling all year.
DORENA RESERVOIR: trout, warmwater
Dorena Reservoir was stocked in mid-October with 1,700 rainbow trout. The
reservoir is east of Cottage Grove on Row River Road and is open to angling all
year. Trout and warmwater fish are available.
EAGLE CREEK: coho
Flows have continued to improve with additional precipitation and fish are now on
the move. Angler effort is steady as folks try to reel in salmon before they are too
dark to eat. Long stretches of Eagle Creek run through private property,
particularly up near the hatchery and from an area below the lower ladder on
down past Bonnie Lure to the mouth.
Anglers are advised to pay close attention to where you fish and we encourage
you to ask permission prior to accessing or crossing private lands on your way to
your favorite fishing hole. See Page 15 of the Oregon Sport Fishing Regulation
pamphlet for more information on “Your Rights to Use the Surface, Bed, and
Banks of Oregon’s Rivers and Lakes.”
ESTACADA LAKE: trout
Stocked in September with 1,200 legal-sized rainbow trout. Estacada Lake is a
150-acre reservoir on the Clackamas River behind River Mill Dam. There is a boat
ramp in Milo McIver State Park at the lower end of the reservoir. A fishing dock next
to the boat ramp provides non-boating access to the lake.
FALL CREEK above FALL CREEK RESERVOIR: trout
Fall Creek above Fall Creek Reservoir is closed to fishing until April 25, 2015.
Anglers may continue to enjoy catch-and-release fishing after Oct. 31 below the
dam. Fall Creek and Reservoir are northeast of Lowell.
FALL CREEK RESERVOIR: trout
Fall Creek Reservoir is drained to streambed over the winter. Fall Creek and
Reservoir are northeast of Lowell.
FARADAY LAKE: trout
Stocked the week of Oct. 6 with 3,800 legal- and larger-sized rainbow trout. This is a
25-acre reservoir located 1.1 miles southeast of Estacada on Hwy. 224 next to a PGE
hydro plant.
FERN RIDGE RESERVOIR: largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, brown bullhead
This 9,000 acre lake just 12 miles west of Eugene is the Willamette Basin’s largest
water body. This reservoir is 12 feet below full pool at this time, so there are no
longer any boat ramps available. For local information regarding the lake and
available boat ramps, contact the Lane County Parks Department at 541-682-2000.
This lake is mostly shallow with a band of deep water from the original channel of
the Long Tom River. The reservoir produces crappie over 12 inches and bass angling
has been very good in recent years. Best time of year for crappie is in spring after
the water temperature reaches the mid-50s, but fish can still be found in deeper
water year round. July and August are peak months for largemouth bass. Fish the
shoreline along the southern part of the reservoir, especially the sloughs and inlets
where there is underwater structure.
FOSTER RESERVOIR: trout, bass, perch, catfish
This scenic 1,200-acre reservoir on the South Santiam River is located just 30
minutes from Interstate 5. There is good bank access at several rest stops and
campgrounds, and three seasonal boat ramps. The water level has dropped
significantly over the last few weeks. The only boat ramp available is at Sunnyside
County Park. This popular fishing destination has received 10,000 legal rainbow
trout this fall. Please remember that only kokanee and adipose fin-clipped trout
may be kept and there are no limits on size or number of bass. From I-5 take US
20 east from Albany to the town of Sweet Home. The reservoir is 3 miles past the
town on the left.
GREEN PETER RESERVOIR: kokanee, trout, bass
This large reservoir east of Sweet Home is a premier kokanee fishery with a bag limit
of 25 fish per day. It also supports stocked rainbow trout and a good population of
smallmouth bass. Kokanee fishing is done for the year, but bass and trout are still
available. Smallmouth bass can be found near underwater structure and at drop-offs.
The reservoir level is currently approximately 96 feet below full pool. Thistle Creek
boat ramp remains open, but Whitcomb Island is now closed until the spring water
storage season.
HENRY HAGG LAKE: trout, bass, crappie, yellow perch, bluegill and brown bullhead
Stocked with 16,000 rainbow trout on Sept. 30. Included in this release are 500
tagged trout. Some of these fish have “prize tags” that are worth $50 to the lucky
anglers who catch them and return them to ODFW’s district office in Clackamas. It’s
all part of a study to evaluate the trout stocking program at this popular fishery.
ODFW asks that anglers on Hagg Lake help with this study by turning in information
about any tagged fish they catch. Tagged fish can be harvested or released. If the
fish is released, biologists recommend cutting the tag off at the base rather than try
to rip the tag out. Anglers can report non-reward tags in person, by mail, by phone,
or by using the tag-reporting page on the ODFW website. Reward tags must be
returned in person or by mail to ODFW’s district office at 17330 SE Evelyn St.,
Clackamas, OR 97015. For more information, contact Ben Walczak, ODFW fish
biologist at 971-673-6013.
This popular fishery has been stocked several times this year and there should be
plenty of fish for anglers who are willing to get out and work for them. Hagg Lake is
located within Scoggins Valley Park. The park features numerous picnic areas, two
boat launching facilities, more than 15 miles of hiking trails, and observation decks
for wildlife and bird watching.
HILLS CREEK RESERVOIR: trout, warmwater fish
Hills Creek Reservoir is open to fishing all year and was stocked in mid-October with
2,500 legal-sized and 1,200 trophy-sized rainbow trout. This reservoir is also stocked
annually with 100,000 adipose fin-clipped spring Chinook fingerlings and 200,000
adipose fin-clipped rainbow trout fingerlings. These fish grow to catchable size within
a year to provide a harvest fishery. All non-adipose fin-clipped trout and salmon
must be released unharmed.
HILLS CREEK above HILLS CREEK RESERVOIR: trout
Hills Creek above Hills Creek Reservoir is closed to all fishing and will re-open April
25, 2015.
JUNCTION CITY POND: trout, crappie
Junction City is a popular stocked trout fishing pond located about 2 miles south of
Junction City on 99W on the west side of the highway. There is excellent access
around the entire 8-acre pond. It will be stocked this week for the first time this fall
with 90 extra-large brood trout, most of them over 5 pounds. As a reminder, zone
regulations apply: five trout daily may be kept and only one over 20-inches.
LEABURG LAKE: trout
Leaburg Lake is closed to all fishing and will re-open April 25, 2015.
Vehicular and pedestrian access across Leaburg Dam is currently restricted weekdays
from 8 a.m.-noon and 1-4 p.m. Check EWEB’s website for updates.
MCKENZIE RIVER below Leaburg Lake: trout, salmon, steelhead
The McKenzie River below Leaburg Lake is open to fishing through the end of the
year. Gear use is restricted to flies and lures below Hendricks Bridge. Use of bait is
allowed from Hendricks Bridge upstream to Leaburg Dam through the end of the year.
Columbia River Basin Endorsement is required for anglers targeting salmon and
steelhead in the McKenzie.
MCKENZIE RIVER above Leaburg Lake: trout, steelhead
The McKenzie River above Leaburg Lake is closed to all fishing until April 25, 2015.
McKenzie basin-specific regulations and stocking schedule.
MIDDLE FORK WILLAMETTE RIVER above HILLS CREEK RESERVOIR: trout
The Middle Fork Willamette River above Hills Creek Reservoir is closed to all fishing
until April 25, 2015.
Middle Fork basin-specific regulations and stocking schedule.
MOLALLA RIVER: Chinook, coho, summer steelhead
The Molalla is low yet fishable by drift boat or from the bank, and with passage of
coho continuing strong at the falls there should be some fish to be found in the
Molalla, particularly down near the mouth. It’s also not unheard of for a few
hatchery summer steelhead to poke their way into the lower river escaping the
warmer waters of the Willamette.
MT HOOD POND: trout, crappie, bluegill
Stocked Oct. 17 with 1,800 rainbow trout. This is a 5-acre pond on the campus of
Mt. Hood Community College in Gresham. Angling is restricted to youths age 17 and
under and holders of ODFW's Disabled Anglers permits from April 1 - Aug. 31.
NORTH FORK RESERVOIR: trout
No more stocking is planned at North Fork this year, although this is a large waterbody
and some fish from earlier in the year should still be available.
Fishermen are reminded that the boat ramp and marina at Promitory Park will be
closed to all public access until the summer of 2016 while PGE constructs a surface
collector to improve the downstream passage of native salmon and steelhead
juveniles at North Fork Dam. All other access points to North Fork Reservoir are
open, and ODFW will stock the lake with hatchery trout as in the past. For more
information about the closure, visit PGE’s website (pdf).
OLALLIE LAKE: trout
This is the largest of more than 200 lakes within the Olallie Lake Scenic Area on the
southern edge of the Mt. Hood National Forest.
QUARTZVILLE CREEK: trout
This fishery is now closed and will re-open on April 25, 2015.
SALMON CREEK: trout
Salmon Creek is a tributary to the Middle Fork Willamette River east of Oakridge.
Salmon Creek is currently open to catch-and-release angling only while using flies
or lures.
SALT CREEK: trout
Salt Creek is a tributary to the Middle Fork Willamette River east of Oakridge. Salt
Creek is currently open to catch-and-release angling only while using flies or lures.
SANDY RIVER: coho, summer steelhead
Coho are on the move and should be distributed throughout the system in the wake
of steady rains that have significantly raised flows. The overall catch reports for the
Sandy have been very good, with the usual spots showing plenty of effort. Corkies,
red and yellow yarn, and spinners seem to be the offerings of choice.
Improved flows will open up new opportunities to both bank and drift anglers. The
Oxbow to Dabney drift remains a good bet by drift boat. If you’re bank fishing, try
Oxbow Park, Dodge Park, and the confluence of the Sandy and Cedar Creek below
the Sandy hatchery. Be very cautious if you decide to ford the river – PFDs, good
footware, and walking sticks are always a good idea, especially during periods of
higher flows we can expect over the next several months.
Anglers who park at the hatchery to fish are reminded to obey all rules and signs; on
any given day over 100 vehicles have been counted parked on hatchery grounds.
SANTIAM RIVER (NORTH FORK): steelhead, Chinook
Fish can be found throughout the river, but are more concentrated in the upper
sections (Mehama to Packsaddle), where summer steelhead can find cooler water.
Counts at Willamette Falls as of Nov. 5 show around 22,900 summer steelhead had
entered the upper basin. Of those, around 4,180 made it above Stayton on the North
Santiam through Oct. 31, including several hundred just in the last two weeks.
Coho salmon have arrived in the basin, and anglers are permitted to catch up to 3
coho per day. It looks like it will be another banner year for coho - over 21,000 coho
have already passed the Willamette Falls fish ladder as of Nov 5. Many of these fish
can be found from the mouth up to Stayton. When the ‘bite’ is on, bobbers and jigs
are the preferred angling method with spoons, spinners and egg clusters also being
effective. Currently the entire river below Packsaddle Park (near the Minto Fish
Facility) is open year-round to adipose fin-clipped steelhead.
Trout fishing is closed until May 23, 2015.
River levels best for fishing are below 3,000 cfs at the Mehama gauge (currently the
gauge is around 6,000 cfs). Current conditions
CAUTION: The section between Shelburn and Green’s Bridge remains hazardous for
boaters because of downed trees and multiple side channels. Better bets are the
floats below Green’s Bridge and above Stayton.
UPDATE: Maintenance work on the Upper Bennett Dam has been completed! The
upgraded boat slide is once again available for use.
UPDATE: The gate at Green’s Bridge near Jefferson has been opened and will remain
open until the next seasonal closure in June 2015.
SANTIAM RIVER (NORTH FORK) above DETROIT:
This section of the river is closed to trout fishing until April 25, 2015. This section of
river is closed to salmon fishing.
SANTIAM RIVER (SOUTH FORK): steelhead, Chinook, bass
Flows in the South Santiam below Foster dam are at 2,830 cfs as of Nov 10. These are
excellent conditions coinciding with the diminishing influx of new fish into the basin. As
a reminder, spring Chinook fishing closed on Aug. 15 and will not reopen until Nov.
1. Below Lebanon, however, there are coho salmon moving in and fishing for these
wild fish can be very good. Best sections to fish are from Wiley Creek to Pleasant
Valley boat ramps, around Waterloo County Park, and from Lebanon down to the
confluence with the North Santiam. There are still quite a few summer steelhead in
the upper reaches. Closed to trout fishing until May 23, 2015.
SHERIDAN POND: trout
Sheridan Pond is a 2 ½-acre pond located on the edge of town. An old mill pond, it
has plenty of bank access, parking, and a restroom. To get there take Hwy. 18 to
Exit 33 onto Balston Rd. Go south on Balston Rd. approximately half a mile and
turn left onto a gravel road leading about a quarter mile to the pond.
SILVER CREEK RESERVOIR: trout, catfish
This is a 65-acre reservoir on Silver Creek 2.5 miles south of Silverton on Hwy. 214.
SMITH RESERVOIR: trout
Smith Reservoir is north of Trail Bridge Reservoir and is accessed by turning off Hwy
126 at Trail Bridge Reservoir and following FS Road 730 north to Smith Dam. The
reservoir is not visible from the highway and is open to year-around fishing. Native
fish are available for harvest.
SOUTH FORK YAMHILL RIVER: trout
The river is now closed to trout fishing for the year.
ST. LOUIS PONDS: trout, bass, crappie, bluegill, yellow perch, channel catfish
Stocked this week with 90 brood trout weighing 10+ pounds apiece. The fish were
released in Pond #6. Anglers are reminded the gate to the park is closed for the
season but the site is still open to fishing for those who are willing to hike in. Hikers
are encouraged to follow the road from the gate to the main parking lot to avoid
areas that may be inundated with water following cross-country paths. St. Louis
Ponds is located 13 miles north of Salem and west of I-5. To get to there from the
north, take the Woodburn exit off I-5. Then go east to Hwy. 99E. At Hwy. 99E, head
south to the town of Gervais. At the light, go west on Gervais Rd. through Gervais.
Gervais Rd. changes to St Louis Rd. Continue west on St Louis Rd. as it crosses over
I-5 to Tesch Lane, at the railroad crossing. Go left on Tesch Lane and follow the
signs to the ponds.
TIMOTHY LAKE: rainbow trout, brook trout, cutthroat trout, kokanee
Timothy is one of the most popular family camping and fishing destinations in the Mt.
Hood National Forest. The lake's south shore features four developed campgrounds
and boat ramps. Three smaller, less developed campgrounds are found in the north.
A trail system for hikers, mountain bikers and equestrians circles the lake.
Motorboats are allowed on Timothy Lake, although a 10 m.p.h. speed limit is in
place. The lake is currently accessible via Highway 26 as well as Forest Road 56 up
the Clackamas River.
TRAIL BRIDGE RESERVOIR: trout
Trail Bridge Reservoir is open to year-round fishing. This waterbody is adjacent to
Hwy 126 and is approximately 60 miles east of Springfield. Only adipose finclipped trout may be harvested from Trail Bridge Reservoir. Flies and lures only
may be used.
TRILLIUM LAKE: trout
Stocked the week of Oct. 6 with with 3,000 legal-sized rainbow trout and 200
larger trout. Trillium is a 60-acre lake located approximately three miles east of
Government Camp off of Hwy 26. This lake is popular for fishing, camping and
photography, often clearly reflecting Mount Hood. A large campground at the lake
features a seasonal boat ramp and wheelchair-accessible floating dock.
WALLING POND: trout, crappie, bass
In winter, spring, and fall, Walling Pond receives over 5,000 trout ranging in size
from legal to multi-pound brooders. It was stocked Oct. 29 with 400 legal and 50
larger size rainbow trout.
As a reminder, zone regulations apply: five trout daily may be kept and only one
may be over 20 inches. The pond is located within the Salem city limits west of I-5.
Take Turner Road off Mission Street.
WALTER WIRTH LAKE: trout, crappie, bass
This popular Salem lake in Cascade Gateway Park receives thousands of hatchery
trout annually. It was stocked again Oct. 29 with 1,300 legal and 100 larger size
rainbow trout. As a reminder, only one fish over 20-inches may be kept.
WAVERLY POND: trout, bluegill, catfish
Waverly Pond is located in Albany and is regularly stocked in fall, winter and spring.
It was stocked with 1,000 rainbow trout averaging 10-inches in mid-October. It will
be stocked again this week with 500 legal size and 25 larger size rainbow trout.
From I-5 take exit 234 west towards Albany. The pond is located a quarter mile
down Pacific Boulevard on the right. A paved ADA-accessible path runs all the way
around the pond.
WEST SALISH POND: panfish, trout
The Salish Ponds Wetlands Park restoration project is far enough along that
anglers are able to go in and fish both the east and west ponds. A variety of
resident warm water species can be found in both ponds, with the east offering
the greatest opportunity.
The City of Fairview would like to give young plantings in the park another season to
establish themselves before large numbers of anglers begin fishing there again; as a
result ODFW likely won’t resume stocking West Salish Pond with trout until late 2014.
WILLAMETTE RIVER: sturgeon, summer steelhead, coho
Coho season continues on the Willamette and these fish are moving over the falls
in good numbers. Anglers fishing above the falls should be trying areas near the
mouth of Willamette tributaries such as the Molalla, Tualatin, or Yamhill rivers.
Hooking into coho below the falls can be very difficult except perhaps near the
mouth of the Clackamas River in Oregon City. Coho passage makes up the bulk of
fish crossings at Willamette Falls, with smaller numbers of summer steelhead and
wild fall Chinook also moving into the upper river.
Coho crossings over the past days have begun to decline a bit but the overall
numbers are still very good. Total adult coho passage through Nov. 2 stands at
17,731. Steelhead crossings are all but done for the season, with a total of 22,941
crossings as of Nov. 2.
WILLAMETTE ZONE HUNTING
OPEN: COUGAR, BLACK BEAR, COAST ELK (1st season Nov. 15-18, see regs)
GROUSE, QUAIL, WATERFOWL (see regs), and TURKEY
See the bird and big game hunting forecasts.
See ODF’s webpage for the latest on restrictions (click Landowner/Corporate
Closure Chart for private land closures)
EVENTS:
See ODFW’s calendar for upcoming Learn to Hunt events.
Hunter orange required for youth
Don’t forget: hunters age 17 and under must wear a fluorescent orange upper
garment OR hat when hunting upland game birds (except turkey) and game
mammals (deer, elk, bear, cougar, pronghorn, goat, sheep, and western gray
squirrel) with a firearm.
Industrial forestland owners will usually have information regarding access to their
property posted on their gates and usually have a “hotline” devoted to providing upto-date access for hunters. In addition, many private timberlands use the following
link to provide information regarding the access policy for their private lands.
Hunters need to have permission to hunt or make sure hunting is allowed before
accessing private lands.
BE PREPARED
Hunters are reminded to be prepared for emergencies by keeping survival equipment
such as food, water, signal mirror, whistle, sleeping bag and first aid kit with you and in
your vehicle during your outdoor adventures. Don’t forget to wear the proper clothing;
it is your first defense against the elements. Let someone know where you will be and
when you expect to return just in case your vehicle becomes stuck or breaks down.
Upland Game Birds
Quail, Mountain / California – Open season from Sept. 1 to Jan 31. Deer hunters
are reporting good numbers of Mountain quail scattered through brushy clearcuts in
the coast range. These brush loving birds are often found running between hiding
and feeding areas in both brushland and riparian zones. While the use of dogs will
improve your chances of locating and quickly recovering birds, hunters without dogs
can easily get into the action with a little extra hiking. Please remember that the
daily bag limit is 10 birds singly or in aggregate when both California and mt. quail
seasons are concurrent and the possession limit is 30 birds singly or in aggregate
when both California and mt. quail seasons are concurrent.
Remember that wildlife laws state that the feathered head must be left
attached while you are in the field or transporting the bird(s) home.
ODFW is conducting a survey to determine Mountain Quail locations east of the
Cascade Mountains in Oregon. Please report and observations, including the date,
specific location, county of observation, and number of quail to your local ODFW office.
Forest Grouse – Open season Sept. 1 - Jan 31. The forest grouse group collectively
includes the Ruffed and Blue (dusky/sooty) grouse species. Forest grouse hunting
success has slowed as rainy and stormy weather conditions persist. Look for grouse
along the edges of timber patches and riparian areas during morning and evening
times. Blue grouse will begin to move towards higher elevation timber stands to
winter so hunters shouldn’t overlook those habitats. Remember that the daily bag
limit is 3 of each species and possession limit is 9 of each species.
Remember that wildlife laws state that the feathered head must be left
attached while you are in the field or transporting the bird(s) home.
Your participation is greatly needed
ODFW would appreciate your help in obtaining important information about the
health of populations grouse and mountain quail populations. To do so we would like
the tail and one whole wing off of any grouse or mountain quail you harvest. Look in
the 2014/15 Oregon Game Bird Regulations for specific instructions for removing
wings/tails and sending them in.
Migratory Birds
Waterfowl seasons have begun. Zone 1 duck season opened on October 11. Goose
hunting will reopen for the second period in both the Northwest General Zone and
Northwest Permit Zone from November 15 – January 10. Hunters are reminded that a
NW Goose Permit is required to hunt either of these zones.
Please refer to pages 16 – 19 of the 2014-2015 Oregon Game Bird Regulations for bag
limit, open area, and other restrictions. Remember to obtain permission before
hunting on private lands.
Big Game
COAST ELK first season is open Nov. 15-18.
Cougar season is open in all zones beginning on Jan. 1, 2014. Biologists are
checking in a few cougars harvested by hunters participating in other big game
seasons. Hunters that specifically target cougar are still waiting for snow which will
help them locate cougar and improve their chance for success. Until the snows
arrive, hunters can use predator calls that mimic an animal in distress to draw
cougar into the open. Approaching cougar can be difficult to see when you are
predator calling so hunting with a partner is advised. Hunters will need to purchase a
2014 hunting license and a 2014 cougar tag to hunt cougars. Successful cougar
hunters will need to check-in any cougar taken at an ODFW office within 10 days of
the kill. Hunters are reminded that biologists located in field offices may be out in the
field handling other issues so call ahead to make arrangements to have your cougar
checked-in. The hide and skull must be unfrozen and the skull and proof of
sex must be attached to the hide. Hunters are required to submit the
reproductive tract of any female cougar taken.
Pick up the Big Game Hunting Regulations before your hunting trip to ensure that
you are familiar with all of the requirements.
Fall Bear season is open but success is starting to wane. Many of the berry food
sources are gone for the season. Bears are looking for those last few meals before
winter arrives so hunters need to locate food sources, such as nuts, apples and pears
that remain. Abandoned orchards or old homesteads can be productive this time of
year. Bears will be feeding primarily in the early morning hours so hunters will need
to be up and on stands before daylight. Please present the unfrozen skull (no
hide attached) so that biologists can properly affix a seal. While hunters are
NOT required to submit the reproductive track of female bear, the voluntary
information is valuable for population modeling.
Fall turkey hunting prospects in the NWWD will be similar to last year. Turkeys are
primarily found on private lands in Yamhill County and are not readily available to
the public. Hunters with access to private lands should have moderate to high
success rates.
In the southern Willamette district, hunting success is dependent on access to
private lands with turkeys and early scouting. Turkeys are most often found on private
lands in the foothills along the west side of these units. It is uncommon to find turkeys
in the Douglas fir forests at higher elevations. Hunting can be very good in the
McKenzie and southern portions of the Santiam Units for hunters that have done their
homework and obtained access to private lands. Turkey are not abundant in the
northern portions (north of Silverton) of the Santiam Unit and hunters will have
difficulty finding the few scattered flocks.
Field Care of Harvested wildlife
The proper handling of harvested wildlife is the most important criteria to ensure its
value as table fare. After properly tagging the animal, the hunter should remove the
entrails and get the hide off to start the cool-down process. Wipe down the carcass
with a dry cloth to remove any foreign material and keep the carcass clean by
placing it into a cloth game bag. Warm weather conditions (greater than 50 degrees)
can increase bacteria loads so hunters need to get the carcass cooled/refrigerated as
soon as possible. Never place the carcass inside of a plastic bag, tarp or in water
since wet or damp meat spoils more quickly. Talk to your local meat processor or
butcher to get additional information concerning the proper care of wildlife or go
online to find websites that cover this topic.
WILLAMETTE ZONE VIEWING
Fall is the time to see salmon spawning
Chinook salmon are currently spawning in rivers around the region. Look for these
impressive fish in the McKenzie, Sandy, Clackamas, and other streams. Please
remember to be respectful of the spawning fish and to observe the salmon quietly
without disturbing them.
AROUND THE AREA
Foster Dam and Reservoir
Viewing sites are at the boat ramps, roadsides and a county park. A flock of Barrow’s
Goldeneye regularly winters just below Foster Dam, sometimes with Common
Goldeneye. Deep water above the dam draws migrant Common Loon and Horned,
Eared, Western, Clark’s and (rarely) Red-necked Grebes in migration, along with
Pied-billed Grebe, American Coot, Common Merganser, and other diving ducks. Redbreasted Merganser, Surf Scoter, Long-tailed Duck, and migrant terns may drop in
as rarities. US Hwy 20 at the E end of Sweet Home, take 60th Ave/Foster Dam Rd N
to North River Dr.
EE Wilson Wildlife Area
Visit the Wildlife Area after 5 p.m. in October for the best wildlife viewing. Hunting in
October ends at 5 p.m. so viewers have the area to themselves. Look and listen for
songbirds and game birds—quail, doves and pheasants. There should be deer to see
at dusk and last week viewers enjoyed watching a river otter.
Waterfowl and shorebirds are scarce but as soon as the wet weather comes, their
numbers will start to build.
From Albany, take Highway 20 toward Corvallis and after 5 miles turn right on
Independence Highway. Go 3 miles and turn left on Camp Adair Road, then proceed
2 miles to the wildlife area.
Find directions to EE Wilson Wildlife Area.
Fern Ridge Reservoir
Most of Fern Ridge Wildlife Area is open daily for public use providing great wildlife
viewing opportunities. The East and West Coyote Units are now closed to access and
will be open only to reservation permit holders beginning Nov. 15. The Fisher Butte
and Royal Amazon Units are open daily but closed to all access after 2 p.m.
Observant visitors may catch a glimpse of black tailed deer and furbearers including
beaver and otter, mink, red fox and coyotes. Some of the unusual and special bird
species to be on the lookout for include white pelicans, black terns, band-tailed
pigeons, yellow-headed blackbirds, osprey and bald eagles. This is a great time of
year to look for waterfowl, shore birds, wading birds, songbirds, raptors, reptiles,
and amphibians.
There is an elevated viewing platform in the Fisher Butte unit just south of Royal
Avenue that is open year-round. A second viewing platform is located 1/4 mile north
of the Fisher Butte unit parking lot on Hwy 126.
Parking areas are located along Highway 126, Nielson Road, Cantrell Road, Territorial
Road, and Clear Lake Road. Contact the wildlife area headquarters, (541) 935-2591
if you have any questions.
Directions to Fern Ridge Wildlife Area.
Sauvie Island Wildlife Area
The Sauvie Island Wildlife Area Eastside units and Westside, Oak Island and North
are now closed and will remain so through April 30. The trail to Warrior Rock
Lighthouse will remain open for hiking and Rentenaar Road, Eastside Viewing
Platform and Coon Point will remain open for viewing. All areas require a Sauvie
Island Wildlife Area Parking Permit.
Sauvie Island is a main stopping point for migratory birds as they travel along the
Pacific Flyway, and ODFW actively manages the Wildlife Area to provide food and
cover for them and the thousands of birds that stay to spend the winter on the
wildlife area. An abundance of ducks and geese can be seen from many points
around the island, as can raptors, including bald eagles, northern harriers, sandhill
cranes, red-tailed hawks and American kestrel.
Sauvie Island is a main stopping point for migratory birds as they travel along the
Pacific Flyway, and ODFW actively manages the Wildlife Area to provide food and
cover for them. An abundance of ducks and geese can be seen from many points
around the island, as can raptors, including bald eagles, northern harriers, sandhill
cranes, red-tailed hawks and American kestrel.
Sauvie Island Wildlife Area is located on Sauvie Island, only 10 miles north of
Portland off Highway 30. A parking permit is required for the Sauvie Island Wildlife
Area and can be purchased at ODFW License vendors, at the Sauvie Island ODFW
office, Monday through Friday during office hours or online. For more information,
call (503) 621-3488.
Directions to Sauvie Island Wildlife Area
FISHING
Weekend fishing opportunities

Several rivers and lakes remain open for trout fishing year-round including
the Deschutes, Crooked and Metolius rivers, and Hosmer, Lost and Walton
lakes. As long as access remains open, fishing can be very good in the fall.
2014 trout stocking for the Central Zone


Bend District
The Dalles District
Send us your fishing report
We’d love to hear about your recent fishing experience. Send us your own fishing
report through ODFW Fishing Reports -- the information will be forwarded to the
local biologist who may use it to update various ODFW resources such as the
weekly Recreation Report.
ANTELOPE FLAT RESERVOIR: rainbow trout
No recent reports. The ramp is not usable for trailered boats but there is plenty of
shoreline available for bank fishing or for launching pontoon boats.
BIG LAVA LAKE: rainbow trout
Closed to fishing until April 25, 2015.
BIKINI POND: rainbow trout
No recent reports.
CRANE PRAIRIE RESERVOIR: rainbow and brook trout, kokanee, largemouth bass
Closed to fishing until April 25, 2015.
CRESCENT LAKE: rainbow trout, brown trout, lake trout and kokanee
Open to fishing all year.
CROOKED RIVER BELOW BOWMAN DAM: redband trout and mountain whitefish
Trout fishing has been excellent. The use of bait is no longer allowed until May 23,
2015. Only artificial lures and flies may be use. Anglers are reminded that trout over
20-inches are considered steelhead and must be released unharmed.
Flows below Bowman Dam
CULTUS LAKE: rainbow trout, lake trout
Open to fishing all year.
DAVIS LAKE: largemouth bass, redband trout
Open to fishing all year. Restricted to fly-fishing only with barbless hooks.
DESCHUTES RIVER, Mouth to the Pelton Regulating Dam: summer steelhead,
redband trout, whitefish
Steelhead fishing on the lower Deschutes has been good throughout the season.
Now that fall is here, anglers can expect fish to be spread out from the mouth all
the way to Warm Springs. Good fishing can be found just about anywhere, but
good fishing has been reported from Macks Canyon to South Junction. No recent
reports on trout fishing. Anglers are reminded that Chinook season closed on the
Deschutes River on Oct. 31, 2014.
Anglers, who catch a tagged hatchery steelhead with an orange anchor tag, are
encouraged to report catch information to ODFW at 541-296-4628. Anglers catching
a tagged wild fish should release it immediately without recording any information.
Check the trap the seasons catch at Sherars Falls as an indicator of fish movement in
the Lower Deschutes at river mile 43. The trap is only in operation from July to the
end of October.
Lake Billy Chinook to Benham Falls: rainbow trout, brown trout
Angling restricted to artificial flies and lures.
Benham Falls to Wickiup Dam: rainbow trout, brown trout
Closed to fishing until May 23, 2015
EAST LAKE: rainbow trout, brown trout, Atlantic salmon, kokanee
Closed to fishing until April 25, 2015.
FALL RIVER: rainbow trout
Anglers report good fishing. Fall River downstream of the falls is closed to angling.
Angling upstream of the falls is open all year.
Restricted to fly-fishing only with barbless hooks.
FROG LAKE: rainbow trout
No recent reports on fishing.
HAYSTACK RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, brown trout, kokanee, largemouth bass,
black crappie, bluegill
No recent reports.
HOOD RIVER: summer steelhead, trout
A few hatchery origin stray, along with wild summer steelhead, are entering the
river and should provide anglers with some opportunity. Anglers are reminded that
all non fin-clipped steelhead must be released.
HOSMER LAKE: Atlantic salmon, brook trout, rainbow trout, cutthroat
Open to fishing all year. Restricted to fly angling only with barbless hooks.
LAKE BILLY CHINOOK: bull, brown and rainbow trout, kokanee, smallmouth bass
No recent reports.
Anglers are reminded there are small numbers of spring Chinook and summer
steelhead in Lake Billy Chinook as part of the reintroduction effort. Please release
these fish unharmed.
LAKE SIMTUSTUS: bull trout, rainbow trout, smallmouth bass
No recent reports. As a reminder, the lake is now open all year.
LAURANCE LAKE: Rainbow trout, cutthroat trout
Closed to fishing until April 25, 2015.
LITTLE LAVA LAKE: rainbow trout, brook trout
Open to fishing all year.
LOST LAKE: rainbow trout, brown trout
No recent report.
METOLIUS RIVER: redband trout, bull trout
Metolius River upstream of Allingham Bridge closed to fishing until May 23, 2015.
Metolius River downstream of Allingham Bridge open all year.
Special regulations in effect for this section.
NORTH TWIN: rainbow trout
Open all year to angling.
OCHOCO CREEK UPSTREAM TO OCHOCO DAM: rainbow trout
Angling is restricted to artificial flies and lures only; two trout per day with an 8-inch
minimum length. Trout over 20-inches are considered steelhead and must be
released unharmed.
OCHOCO RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, black crappie, smallmouth bass
No recent reports.
Recent sampling revealed good numbers of trout ranging from 12 to 16-inches long.
There were also some smallmouth bass up to 15-inches long.
ODELL LAKE: kokanee, lake trout, rainbow trout
Closed to fishing until April 25, 2015.
PAULINA LAKE: brown trout, rainbow trout, kokanee
Closed to fishing until April 25, 2015.
PINE HOLLOW RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, largemouth bass
The reservoir has been stocked and should offer good fishing this fall.
PRINEVILLE RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, largemouth and smallmouth bass, crappie
No recent reports. Fishing should be good as the fish are feeding heavily to get
ready for winter.
PRINEVILLE YOUTH FISHING POND: rainbow trout and largemouth bass
The pond will receive a load of trout the week of Nov. 3. Anglers are reminded that
fishing is limited to kids 17 years old and younger. There is also a 2 fish bag limit.
ROCK CREEK RESERVOIR: rainbow trout
No recent reports, but irrigation withdrawals have drawn the reservoir to a low level
that will limit good fishing.
SHEVLIN YOUTH FISHING POND: rainbow trout
Open all year to angling. Two trout per day, 8 inch minimum length. Fishing restricted
to juvenile anglers 17-years-old and younger.
SOUTH TWIN LAKE: rainbow trout
Closed to fishing until April 25, 2015.
SUTTLE LAKE: brown trout, kokanee
Open to fishing all year.
TAYLOR LAKE: rainbow trout, largemouth bass
The lake has been stocked recently and should be a good opportunity for fall trout.
THREE CREEK LAKE: rainbow trout, brook trout
Open to fishing all year.
WALTON LAKE: rainbow trout
No recent reports.
WICKIUP RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, brown trout, kokanee, largemouth bass.
Closed to fishing until April 25, 2015.
CENTRAL ZONE HUNTING
OPEN: COUGAR, BLACK BEAR, ROCKY MTN ELK (2nd season Nov. 8-16, see
regs) GROUSE, WATERFOWL (see regs)
See the bird and big game hunting forecasts.
Hunters planning to hunt new area open on Columbia River (from the railroad bridge at
Celilo to Arlington) – reminder that most Corps of Engineer lands are closed to hunting.
Wolves and coyotes can look alike
Most wolves in the state today are in northeast Oregon but a few have dispersed
further west and south. Wolves are protected by state and/or federal law and it is
unlawful to shoot them. Coyote hunters need to take extra care to identify their
target as wolves can look like coyotes, especially wolf pups in the mid-summer
and fall. ODFW appreciates hunters’ assistance to establish wolves’ presence in
Oregon; please report any wolf sightings or wolf sign to ODFW using the online
reporting system.
Use the Oregon Hunting Map to see where to hunt.
PRINEVILLE/OCHOCO WILDLIFE DISTRICT
Cougar are present throughout the Maury, Ochoco, and Grizzly units. The Maury and
Ochoco units are recommended because of their greater amounts of public lands and
better accessibility. Remember cougars must be checked in at an ODFW office within
10 days of harvest. Please consult the synopsis for all required parts and be sure to
call first to make an appointment.
Ground squirrels are active in agricultural fields throughout Crook and Jefferson
counties. Higher numbers are in Crook County on private lands along the Crooked
River between Prineville and Paulina. Permission from landowners is necessary to
access and hunt these lands.
Coyotes can offer an exciting challenge and will be closely associated with deer and
antelope during the fawning time of year. Both the Maury and Ochoco have sizeable
areas of public lands that provide hunting opportunities. Hunters should use caution,
be properly equipped and prepared for whatever the weather might bring.
THE DALLES DISTRICT
Waterfowl- Expect an increase in waterfowl as weather fronts continue to push
through. Please see Oregon Game Bird Regulations for all waterfowl season dates.
General Rocky Mountain Elk: 2nd season Nov. 8-16. Elk numbers remain stable or
increasing throughout the district. Hunting public lands will be competitive during the
general season. Hunter may increase odds of success by keying in on roadless areas
and looking for fresh sign. Please remember to ask permission to hunt on private lands.
Upland Game Birds:
Chukar and Hungarian Partridge – Oct. 11-Jan. 31: Chukar numbers continue to
be low throughout the district. Hunters can expect chukar and Hungarian partridge to
be similar to last season.
Ringneck Pheasant – Oct. 11-Dec. 31: Pheasants numbers continue to be stable
but at low levels.
Forest Grouse and Quail – Sept. 1- Jan 31, 2105. Hunters are encouraged to place
Grouse and Mountain quail wings in ODFW grouse wing barrels located along select
roads in the district. Grouse and quail numbers are good throughout the district.
Mourning Dove – Closed Oct. 30. Note: Eurasian Collared Doves are
UNPROTECTED with no season or bag limit restrictions. Hunters only need a hunting
license to harvest these birds. Often found in urban areas, make sure you are
outside city limits when discharging a weapon.
General Bear – Open Aug. 1-Nov. 30. Bears are focusing on adding critical energy
reserves in the last couple months before winter. Bears can still be found on open
hillsides and clearcuts with good glassing opportunities. Hawthorn patches, acorns, and
pine nuts can draw in bears with most berry crops having ended. Look for browsing,
rolled rocks, torn apart logs, and fresh scat. Hunting these areas during twilight hours
can increase success. All harvested bears are required to be checked in to a local ODFW
office within 10 days of harvest. Please make an appointment to check in the harvested
bear. ODFW field office phone (541) 296-4628.
Coyote –There are high numbers of Coyotes in Hood River and Wasco Counties.
Those wishing to pursue will find the best success near agricultural lands. Success
can be increased if you locate dogs the night before hunting with a howl call and
come back to that area with a predator call in the early morning. Be sure to ask
permission to hunt private lands. Limited opportunities may also be found at White
River Wildlife area, and on lower elevation forest service lands.
Cougar – Hunters wishing to pursue cougar will find best success near areas of deer
and elk concentrations, or in canyons near bighorn sheep. Using predator calls in
early summer is also highly effective. Hunters are required to check-in the unfrozen
hide and skull, with proof of sex attached to an ODFW office within 10 days. Hunters
are also required to provide the reproductive tract of harvested female cougars. See
pg. 42 of the regulations for details.
WHITE RIVER WILDLIFE AREA
A parking permit is now required to use/park on the White River Wildlife Area along
with other ODFW wildlife areas. Camping is allowed only in designated areas.
General Rocky Mt. Elk 1st Season: Success was good with several bulls taken
throughout the Wildlife Area. 2nd Season is Nov.8–Nov. 16. Bag Limit: One Bull Elk with
visible antler. Elk can be found spread around the Wildlife Area. They move back and
forth from the Wildlife Area to the Mt. Hood National Forest. Elk numbers in the White
River Unit have been on the increase recently giving hunters a better chance of
successfully tagging a bull elk.
Forest Grouse and Quail –Sept 1- Jan 31, 2105. Hunters must possess an upland
game bird validation to hunt these species. Hunters seeking forest grouse will find
grouse activity typically increases following recent rains. Grouse prefer sites that
transition from thick timber to open areas particularly with a forage component such
as wild rose or snowberry. Quail densities increase in brushy areas adjacent to water.
Hunters are also encouraged to place Grouse and Mountain quail wings in ODFW grouse
wing barrels located along roads in district.
Mourning Dove – Closed Oct. 30. Eurasian Collared Doves are UNPROTECTED with no
season or bag limit restrictions. Hunters only need a hunting license to harvest these
birds. Often found in urban areas, make sure you are outside city limits when discharging
a weapon.
Black Bear – Aug. 1 to Nov. 30 – Bag Limit: One black bear per tag, except that it is
unlawful to take cubs less than one year old or sows with cubs less than one year old.
Bears use the Wildlife Area quite often but are difficult to hunt. To see if bears are using
an area look for tracks on trails and dirt roads and if you start finding rocks rolled over
you know you are in a good area. Finding the bears favorite foods; grass, berries, or
acorns will help in locating a bear.
Vehicle Access: New rules took affect that prohibit all recreational ATV use on the
Wildlife Area, also camping is only allowed in designated camping areas.
A parking permit is now required to use/park on the White River Wildlife Area along with
other ODFW wildlife areas.
Cougar – Open all year or until zone mortality quotas have been met. Cougar can be
found on White River Wildlife Area but are seldom seen. The annual migration of deer
from higher in the Cascades will entice cougars to follow. Use weather to your advantage;
look for tracks in snow, mud, and dirt.
Coyote – There are many coyotes prowling about this year. Try calling for them from
open fields, meadows, and pastures. The best areas to find them will be near farm
grounds on the eastern boundary.
CENTRAL ZONE VIEWING
CROOK COUNTY
The Prineville Reservoir Wildlife Management Area (WMA) offers camping, shoreline
angling and opportunities to see a wide variety of wildlife, including deer, coyotes,
otter, beaver, raptors, shorebirds and waterfowl. Maps of the wildlife area are
available at the Prineville ODFW office and at Prineville Reservoir State Park office.
Red-tailed, rough-legged and ferruginous hawks, northern harriers, American
kestrels, prairie falcons and golden eagles can be found throughout Crook County
and are usually associated more closely with open/agricultural areas. Bald eagles and
osprey can be found associated with water bodies. Northern goshawks can be located
throughout the Ochoco National Forest.
DESCHUTES COUNTY
The first dusting of snow has reached the highest Cascade peaks, but access to the
mountain lakes is still good (as of this update) and visitors are likely to see loons,
multiple gull species, and various grebes including horned, eared, western, and
Clark’s. In addition to the water birds, you can expect to see hermit thrushes,
Williamson’s and black-backed woodpeckers. Lower elevation water bodies, such as
the Hatfield Lakes near the Bend Airport, is a great place to find a full cadre of
waterfowl and wetland species, such as Canada geese, northern pintail, wood duck,
American bittern, and great blue heron.
Throughout the county most of our summer birds have left for warmer climes,
however, our year round resident birds, such as California quail, house finches, pine
siskins and dark-eyed junco’s are still plentiful.
As mentioned above, some bird species have left for the winter, but other species,
such as robins and red-tailed hawks, have migratory “shifts” meaning that
individuals present during the spring and summer migrate south, while other
individuals that summer north of Oregon move south and winter here.
Small mammals, such as chipmunks and squirrels can still be observed conducting
their pre-winter food gathering on national forest and BLM lands, but their activities,
especially at higher elevations, will be curtailed as temperatures drop. Reptiles are
now sequestered in underground winter quarters that protect them from freezing
conditions. And although amphibians can be active at colder temperatures, they will
be much harder to find until next spring. We’ll know spring is back when the chirrups
of tree frogs can heard once again. 11/4/2014
WASCO AND SHERMAN COUNTIES
The Lower Deschutes River provides ample wildlife viewing opportunities.
California bighorn sheep are frequently observed in the canyon and can provide
fantastic viewing all times of the year. Rams are starting to rut and can provide
excellent viewing opportunities. Listen for rams butting heads (sounds like two
large blocks of lumber being smashed together) along the Deschutes and John
Day River corridors. The best spot to view sheep is from the BLM access road
just downstream and across the river from Sherar’s Falls (along Hwy 216).
Focus your efforts near large cliff complexes for best viewing.
Many different raptor species can be seen in the Deschutes River Canyon this
time of year including Red-tailed Hawks, Northern Harriers, American Kestrels,
Prairie Falcons, Peregrine Falcons, and Golden Eagles. Migrating raptors have
been showing up in large numbers, focus on high ridgelines where migrating
birds travel.
A large variety of songbird species can be viewed in riparian areas along the
river also. It is best to go birding in the early morning hours before it gets too
hot for birds to be very active. Some common species seen include Bullock’s
Oriole, Lazuli Bunting, Mourning Dove, Violet-green Swallow, and Cliff Swallow.
10/1/2014.
WHITE RIVER WILDLIFE AREA
Deer are starting into the rut which provides a good opportunity for viewing
and photographs with some of the large bucks showing up. Best time to see
them is early in the mornings or later in the evening hours grazing in fields
and pastures.
There are several groups of elk using the Wildlife Area and much like the deer,
elk will be more active in the mornings and evenings. They are just coming out
of the rut and may still be seen in large groups but some of the larger bulls have
pulled back away from the herds.
If you can find their food sources in the mornings or evenings your chances of
spotting them will greatly increase.
It’s also possible to see bald and golden eagles on the Wildlife Area. Other
raptors such as red-tailed hawks and rough-legged hawks are common sights.
American kestrels and northern harriers are also easily seen hunting for food.
Lewis’s woodpeckers, pileated woodpeckers, flickers, western meadowlarks,
Steller’s jays, scrub jays, gray jays, Townsend’s solitaire, horned larks, and
robins are all at home on the Wildlife Area. There have also been lots of
magpies spotted flying around this year.
Look on ponds, lakes and streams to see a variety of ducks and geese. 11/3/14
FISHING
Weekend fishing opportunities
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The Klamath River below Keno Dam is open. This area typically provides
excellent fishing for large redband trout.
Miller Lake can provide excellent opportunities for large brown trout if the
road is not blocked by snow.
Thanks to a change in regulations, Krumbo Reservoir is now open for fishing
year-round. Anglers have been having some success with rainbows up to 19inches long.
2014 trout stocking for the Southeast Zone
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Klamath District
Hines District
Lakeview District
Send us your fishing report
We’d love to hear about your recent fishing experience. Send us your own fishing report
through ODFW Fishing Reports -- the information will be forwarded to the local biologist
who may use it to update various ODFW resources such as the Weekly Recreation Report.
ANA RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout, hybrid bass
The reservoir is extremely low. Launching boats is unlikely. Although fishing pressure
at Ana Reservoir is typically low this time of year, fish are active with cooling
temperatures. Hybrid bass are traditionally targeted using crank baits, however they
are caught in the reservoir using various methods including bait. Trout are averaging
12 to 14-inches and hybrid bass larger than 20-inches are not uncommon.
ANA RIVER: hatchery rainbow trout
Fishing should be good for rainbow trout in Ana River. The Ana River is spring fed
and rainbow trout are active throughout the year. The river was sampled on June 5
to evaluate the current stocking strategy and size of trout in the river. We found
smaller trout (8 to 10-inches) were dominant from the dam for about 2 miles
downstream. Larger trout up to 14-inches are more common in areas where access
is more difficult.
Anglers can access these trout by floating the river in a pontoon or float tube. Caddis
flies are the dominant invertebrate.
Ana River is a good TROUT 365 fishery – good trout fishing 365 days a year.
ANNIE CREEK: brook trout, brown trout and rainbow trout
Closed to fishing until April 25, 2015.
ANTHONY LAKE: rainbow trout, brook trout
The lake was stocked several times in July with legal and trophy-sized rainbow trout. Fall
is a special time to fish this lake as fishing pressure is light and the bite picks up with
cooler water temps.
BALM CREEK RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, smallmouth bass, crappie
The reservoir has been drained. Trout will be restocked next spring.
BEULAH RESERVOIR: redband trout, hatchery rainbow trout, whitefish, bull trout
No recent fishing report.
The reservoir water level is very low with irrigation use and boat ramps are not useable.
USBR crews have been tagging fish populations in the reservoir over the last several
years. If you catch a tagged trout report it to the Hines office at 541-573-6582.
BLITZEN RIVER: trout
No recent fishing report.
The river is currently flowing at 34 cfs with water temperatures in the low 40s˚F. The
Little Blitzen River is catch-and-release for trout all year.
BLUE LAKE: hatchery rainbow trout
You will likely encounter snow on your way into Blue Lake. Fishing is not
recommended at this time. Blue lake is a fantastic high elevation lake located in
the Gearhart Wilderness between Bly and Lakeview. A three mile trail leads to the
lake and is a 1-2 hour hike. Fish were sampled by net and hook and line sampling.
Rainbow trout ranged from 6 to 17-inches and were in healthy condition. The trout
at this lake see little pressure and are easy to catch using flies, lures or bait.
BULLY CREEK RESERVOIR: bass, crappie, yellow perch, catfish, trout
The reservoir water level continues to decline with irrigation withdrawal. Boat ramp
is not usable. No recent fishing report.
BURNS POND: trout, bass
About 2,000 legal (8 to 11-inches) rainbow trout were stocked in the pond the
week of Oct. 3. Fishing should be good for rainbow trout over the next few weeks
and consistent throughout the winter.
BURNT RIVER: rainbow trout
Closed to fishing until April 25, 2015.
CAMPBELL LAKE: brook trout, rainbow trout
Access could be blocked by snow. Fishing should be very good as fish begin to feed
heavily in preparation for overwintering.
CHEWAUCAN RIVER: redband trout
The river downstream of Paisley closes to trout fishing after Oct. 31.
The river upstream of Hwy 31 at Paisley is open and the use of bait in this section of
the river is PROHIBITED! Access across property owned by the J-Spear Ranch will be
closed to anglers beginning after July 7, 2014. The ranch is taking this action as a fish
conservation measure to protect fish during months when the water becomes warmer.
CHICKAHOMINY RESERVOIR: trout
The reservoir is low and the boat ramp is out of the water. Trout numbers will be
down this fall, but anglers may be able to catch some trout as temperatures decline.
COTTONWOOD MEADOWS: rainbow trout, brook trout
Access might be blocked by snow.
Fly anglers have experienced excellent late season trout fishing in recent years.
Keep an eye out for flying carpenter ants and be able to match them with flies if
they hitting the water surface in great numbers. Fishing from a boat with olive
colored flies can be very productive. Rainbow trout and brook trout also feed on fat
head minnows along the shoreline especially in the fall months. Casting flies that
mimic minnows on a very fast retrieve can work well. Lures that mimic small bait
fish also work great.
COW LAKES: largemouth bass, white crappie, brown bullheads, rainbow trout
The upper lake is full and the lower one is dry.
As of 2013, the lakes will no longer be stocked with rainbow trout due to poor habitat
quality. Ice fisherman reported poor success for warm water species and trout.
DEADHORSE LAKE: rainbow trout
Access might be blocked by snow. Fishing should be good.
DELINTMENT LAKE: trout
No recent reports, but fishing should become better as water temperatures decline
during the fall. Anglers may consider using a boat, canoe, pontoon or float tube to
get away from the weeds surrounding the edge of the lake.
DEMING CREEK: redband trout
Fishing is closed until April 25, 2015.
DEVILS LAKE (FISHHOLE CREEK): largemouth bass, black crappie, yellow perch,
brown bullhead
No reports.
DOG LAKE: largemouth bass, yellow perch, black crappie, brown bullhead
Sampling in June confirmed that brown bullheads are dominating the fishery this
year. The bullheads range in size from 8 to 14-inches and are a great fish for kids.
Bass anglers have reported the best bass fishing at the reservoir in years with fish
of various sizes caught. Bank and boat access is excellent at the lake.
DUNCAN RESERVOIR: rainbow trout
No recent reports.
EAGLE CREEK: rainbow trout, brook trout
Closed to fishing until April 25, 2015.
FISH LAKE (Steens Mountain): rainbow trout, brook trout
Fish are available for anglers to catch. Contact Burns BLM for updates on road access
this summer (541 573-4400).
FISH LAKE (Wallowa Montains): rainbow trout, brook trout
Stocked with rainbows the last week of June. Fishing should pick up with cooler
fall temperatures and light fishing pressure. Snow will begin to make access to this
lake difficult.
FOURMILE CREEK (tributary to Agency Lake): brook, brown, and redband trout.
Open to fishing all year. Fourmile Creek off Westside road just north of Cherry
Creek is open all year with bait allowed. Fishing should be good for brook trout. A
few large brown trout occur in the stream.
FOURMILE LAKE: rainbow trout, lake trout, kokanee, brook trout
Conditions at the lake are cold and snowy. The lake was stocked during Labor Day
weekend with 12 to 14-inch rainbow trout. Brook trout and lake trout are more
numerous near the deeper water along the west shoreline and at the north end of
the lake. Fishing should be very good for lake trout and brook trout as they
actively spawning along the shoreline.
The boat ramp at Fourmile Lake is accessible; however, it is unimproved and
launching boats might be challenging due to low water levels. The lake is currently at
dead pool.
Fourmile Lake levels
Fourmile Lake is very windy in the afternoon; therefore, fishing is best in early
morning and evenings. The wind also blows towards the boat ramp making it difficult
to place the boat on a trailer. There is an improved campground and numerous trails
nearby that lead to other lakes that are stocked. Lakes within a mile of Fourmile
Lake that are stocked by helicopter are Squaw, Woodpecker and Badger. Badger
Lake is the most productive. Bring your mosquito repellant.
GERBER RESERVOIR: crappie, yellow perch, brown bullhead and largemouth bass
The lake is only 2 percent full, which makes launching boats challenging if possible.
Fishing is slow.
HAINES POND: rainbow
The pond was stocked with trophy-sized rainbow trout in late September.
HEART LAKE: rainbow trout, kokanee
No recent reports.
HOLBROOK RESERVOIR: rainbow trout
Bag and size limits have been lifted at the reservoir to enable anglers to harvest
rainbow trout before it goes dry. Anglers can also try fishing Lofton Reservoir or
Heart Lake.
HWY 203 POND: trout, bass, bluegill
Fishing for trout and warmwater fish should improve with cooler fall temperatures.
J.C. BOYLE RESERVOIR (Topsy Reservoir): Largemouth bass, yellow perch,
brown bullhead, pumpkinseed, crappie, goldfish
Fishing is slow for warmwater fish such as crappie, pumpkinseed sunfish and brown
bullhead catfish. Dense aquatic vegetation makes fishing challenging. The reservoir
is turbid therefore anglers should try lures with high visibility and scent.
Access is great here with a BLM campground with fishing pier and boat launch.
Boats can be launched in several locations in the reservoir. Unimproved ramps
occur just north and south of the bridge crossing. No fees are required to launch
at these locations.
Try the bay just south of the BLM campground for crappie and pumpkinseed. Also try
the rocky areas near and under the bridge. Goldfish dominate the fish assemblage in
the reservoir. Anglers should mimic the goldfish with bronze or copper lures or plugs
to catch largemouth bass in the reservoir.
JUNIPER LAKE: cutthroat trout
The lake is very low (reduced to two small pools). The lake can be accessed on public
land off the East Steens Loop Rd. on the SE side. A large portion of the lake is
privately owned, as indicated by the fence lines; however, bank access is permitted.
Please be respectful of private property.
UPPER KLAMATH AND AGENCY LAKES: native redband trout and yellow perch
Fishing is improving from both bank and boat. Fishing is generally slow with catch rates
averaging 7 hours per redband from boat and 30 hours per redband from the shore.
Most fishing takes place from a boat this time of year but fishing from the shore begins
to improve as November approaches. November is one of the best months to fish Upper
Klamath Lake from shore. Redband trout are scattered sparsely around the lakes
fishing will be slow. Water temperature has dropped and is averaging around 49-50
degrees. Water temperatures around 58-60 degrees are ideal for redband trout activity.
The lake is 5 feet below full pool.
ODFW encourages catch and release as this fishery is managed for trophy trout.
Redband trout captured should not be removed from the water, resuscitated by
cradling and pumping gills by moving fish back and forth through the water. It is
unlawful to continue to fish for the same type of fish after taking and retaining a
catch or possession limit.
Upper Klamath Lake is a good TROUT 365 fishery – good trout fishing 365 days a year.
KLAMATH RIVER: native rainbow-redband trout
The section from Keno Dam to J.C. Boyle Reservoir (Topsy Reservoir) opened to
fishing Oct. 1. Currently river flows are 659 cfs. Flows remain ideal for a successful
fishing outing. The Klamath River is a rugged river with extremely difficult wading.
The river is also always turbid. ODFW recommends wearing studded wading
shoes, wading belt, and polarized glasses to observe boulders. Fish can also be
landed easier with a landing net in the fast pocket water. Most fish being captured
are less than 16 inches. Most fish are feeding on minnows. Fishing remains open
throughout the fall and winter. Fishing in November can be excellent.
The Klamath River between JC Boyle Dam to JC Boyle Powerhouse offers excellent
spinner fishing as well as good dry fly-fishing with small flies. Most fish in this section
are small and average 10 inches. Below the springs this section remains near a
constant 360 cfs of flow. Fishing is best below the spring inputs. The most effective
method this time of year it to cast black spinners upstream into the pools. Fishing
with dry flies is also very good. Most attractor dry flies will work well. This section of
river requires a hike down steep grade to the river with the exception of the area
just above the powerhouse. Caddisfly imitations are working well.
Below the JC Boyle powerhouse the fish get slightly larger than the aforementioned
reach and average 12 inches but rarely exceed sixteen inches. River flows in this
section are typically quite high during the day but expect flows to be low this week
during the afternoon Fishing should be excellent during the low flow period.
If flow levels are 900 cfs or lower the river is fishable. Dead drifting rubber legged
stonefly patterns and/or bead head pheasant tails can be good. Caddisfly imitations
work well this time of year. Casting leech or wooly buggers upstream into fast water
pockets and pools and stripping can be very effective. Look for blue winged olive
mayfly hatches in the afternoon. Most fish are in the 6-8 inch range but numerous
12 inch fish can be caught with 16 inches the maximum.
Flows will be high through most daylight hours. Flow release estimates have been
discontinued until next spring.
Klamath River is a good TROUT 365 fishery – good trout fishing 365 days a year.
KRUMBO RESERVOIR: trout, bass
A recent change in Malheur National Wildlife Refuge policy has allowed year-round
fishing at this reservoir. However, no ice-fishing is allowed. ODFW has enacted a
temporary rule to modify the regulation language to allow anglers to continue
fishing at this reservoir from Nov. 1 through Dec. 31 2014. The 2015 angling
regulations will note the year-round angling regulation. Anglers have reported
moderate success for rainbow trout up to 19-inches recently. Water remains high
and boats can be launched at the boat ramp.
LAKE OF THE WOODS: hatchery rainbow trout, kokanee, hatchery brown trout,
yellow perch, brown bullhead, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, crappie, tui chub
Call Lake of the Woods Resort for recent reports Toll Free at 866-201-4194. Fishing
for brown trout can be fair this time of year as they move into the shallows and also
feed aggressively after the spawn. Yellow perch can also be caught using small bait.
LOFTON RESERVOIR: rainbow trout
Fishing is best in the afternoon when water temperatures have increased. Nearshore
vegetation is thick and water levels are low.
LONG CREEK: brook trout, redband trout, bull trout
Long Creek is closed to fishing until April 25, 2015.
LOST RIVER: largemouth bass, brown bullhead, yellow perch
Lost River is open to fishing all year but will likely be freeze over sometime next
month. Public access is available at Crystal Springs day use area. Anglers can fish
from the specifically designed bridge for fishing at this location. Boats can be
launched from an improved boat ramp at Crystal Springs.
Sacramento perch had been reported captured below Horseshoe Dam. This is one of
the only locations in the state to capture this fish. The Lost River is open to fishing
year round.
MALHEUR RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout
The reservoir is low and fishing is slow.
MALHEUR RIVER (Warm Springs Reservoir downstream to South Fork
Malheur River): redband trout and hatchery rainbow trout
Water releases from Warm Springs Reservoir are less than 1 cfs as of Nov. 3 and the
reservoir is at dead-pool. Fishing is poor.
MALHEUR RIVER (from the South Fork Malheur River near Riverside,
downstream to Gold Creek): redband trout and hatchery rainbow trout.
Fishing is slow and water temperatures are warm.
MALHEUR RIVER, NORTH FORK: redband trout, whitefish, and bull trout
No recent reports. Trout fishing will begin to improve as water temperatures decrease.
MALHEUR RIVER, MIDDLE FORK: redband trout, brook trout, and bull trout
No recent reports.
Trout fishing will begin to improve as water temperatures decrease.
MANN LAKE: trout
No recent fishing reports, but anglers had been catching good numbers of large
cutthroat trout this spring. Most fish are 14 to 16-inches long, with several over 20inches being caught. Expect water levels to be low.
MILLER LAKE: brown trout, kokanee, rainbow trout, brook trout
This is one of the best months to fish for brown trout if access is not blocked by
snow. Fishing is good for brown trout. Look for brown trout cruising the shoreline
or also feeding on kokanee near the surface. Please report any circular wounds on
trout that might be caused by lamprey to the Klamath Falls ODFW office at 541883-5732. Recent sampling showed low numbers of 12 to 16-inch brown trout
cruising the shoreline.
Miller Lake has an improved USFS campground with running water, a nice boat ramp
and great swimming beach. The 12 mile gravel road into Miller Lake is in horrible
condition with numerous washboards. Most anglers use a boat and troll deep to
capture brown trout in the lake. Good places to try for brown trout are Evening
Creek and near the outlet at Miller Creek.
MOON RESERVOIR: bass, trout
The reservoir is very low with warm water and the boat ramp is out of the water.
Carp remain available.
MUD LAKE: trout
No recent reports.
MURRAY RESERVOIR: trout
Fishing should improve with cooler fall temperatures.
NORTH POWDER POND: rainbow trout
The pond was stocked with trophy-sized rainbow trout in late September.
OVERTON RESERVOIR: rainbow trout
Anglers can access the reservoir, but duck weed is beginning to present problems for
bank anglers. It is best to take a boat, float tube, or pontoon boat this time of year
so you can fish the open water. Trout up to 14-inches are available.
OWYHEE RESERVOIR: largemouth and smallmouth bass, crappie, yellow perch, catfish
No recent reports, but angling is expected to be slow. No boat ramps are useable
based on the Bureau of Reclamation webpage.
OWYHEE RIVER (Lower): brown trout and hatchery rainbow trout
Water releases below the dam were at 11 cfs as of Nov. 3. Please use ethical angling
practices; be respectful of other fisherman, use barbless hooks, land fish quickly and
keep fish in the water at all times.
OWYHEE RIVER (Upper): smallmouth bass and channel catfish
No recent reports, but fishing is expected to be slow.
PHILLIPS RESERVOIR: trout, perch
The reservoir is at 15 percent of capacity. Fishing for rainbow trout and yellow
perch should improve with cooler fall temperatures.
A second batch of tiger muskie were released into the reservoir in early July of
2014. Anglers are reminded that tiger muskie are restricted to catch-and-release
only. No harvest or removal from the reservoir is allowed. The last stocking of
legal-sized rainbow trout occurred late June. In early May, 7,500 tiger trout were
released. These fish will be 8 to 10-inches when released and should be much
larger by fall. As with the tiger muskie, fishing for tiger trout is restricted to catch
and release only.
Launching boats at the Union Creek Campground boat launch is not possible.
Launching at the boat launch adjacent to the dam is feasible, but rough due to pot
holes in the ramp.
PILCHER RESERVOIR: trout
The reservoir water level is low, and the water level is now below the low water boat
launch. Launching of boats is not possible. The reservoir closes to fishing on Nov. 1.
POISON CREEK RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout
Trout fishing has been slow, but should improve as water temperatures cool. The
limit is 2 per day, please respect the fishing regulations for the reservoir.
POLE CREEK RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout
The reservoir is less than half-full. Catch rates remain fair for holdover trout;
however, several fish up to 17-inches have been caught recently using bait. The
reservoir was stocked with legal-sized trout earlier this spring.
POWDER RIVER: trout, spring Chinook
The Powder River below Mason Dam was last stocked in June and is now at
minimum flow.
SAND AND SCOTT CREEKS: brook trout and brown trout
Sand and Scott Creeks are very small spring fed streams west of Hwy 97 near the
Silver Lake highway junction. Fishing on these small streams is open year-round with
bait allowed. Most fish are less than 8-inches long.
SEVENMILE CREEK: brook trout, brown trout, redband trout
Closed to fishing until April 25, 2015.
SKY LAKES AND MOUNTAIN LAKE WILDERNESS: brook trout and rainbow trout
Access to most of the wilderness lakes is blocked by snow.
SHERLOCK GULCH RESERVOIR: rainbow trout
No recent reports, but fish should be available for anglers to catch.
SPRING CREEK: redband trout, brown trout and brook trout
Closed to fishing until May 23, 2015. Mouth of Spring Creek is a good location to
observe brown trout spawning.
SPRAGUE RIVER: redband trout, brown trout, largemouth bass and yellow perch
Closed to fishing until April 25, 2015.
NORTH FORK SPRAGUE RIVER AND ALL TRIBUTARIES: brook trout, redband
trout, brown trout, bull trout
Closed to fishing until April 25, 2015.
SOUTH FORK SPRAGUE RIVER AND ALL TRIBUTARIES: brook trout, redband
trout, brown trout, bull trout
Closed to fishing until April 25, 2015.
SUN CREEK: brook trout, bull trout, brown trout
Closed to fishing until April 25, 2015.
SYCAN RIVER: brook trout, redband trout
Closed to fishing until April 25, 2015.
THOMPSON RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, largemouth bass
Water levels at the reservoir are lower than normal, but trout and bass are still
available for anglers. No recent reports.
THIEF VALLEY RESERVOIR: trout
The reservoir was recently drained by the Lower Powder River Irrigation District. The
reservoir will not be restocked withrainbow trout in November due to low water. No
opportunity for ice fishing will exist this winter. Stocking plans for spring 2015 will be
dependent on water supply.
TWIN LAKES: rainbow trout, brook trout
The lake at the campground was stocked with legal-sized rainbows the last week
of June. Fishing should improve with cooler fall temperatures. Snow will begin to
make access to this lake.
UNITY RESERVOIR: trout, bass, crappie
The reservoir is at about11 percent of capacity. Anglers are reminded that a new
regulation restricts the harvest of bass to those under 15-inches long.
VEE LAKE: rainbow trout
Anglers can access the reservoir, but vegetation is beginning to present problems for
bank anglers. It is best to take a boat, float tube, or pontoon boat this time of year
so you can fish the open water.
WARM SPRINGS RESERVOIR: smallmouth bass, crappie, catfish, perch, rainbow trout
The reservoir is at dead-pool and fishing is slow.
LOWER WILLIAMSON RIVER: redband and brown trout
Closed to fishing until May 23, 2015.
UPPER WILLIAMSON RIVER: redband and brook trout
Closed to fishing until April 25, 2015.
WILLOW VALLEY RESERVOIR: largemouth bass, crappie, yellow perch, bluegill,
lahontan cutthroat
The current conditions at the reservoir are unknown but launching boats might be impossible.
WOLF CREEK RESERVOIR: crappie, trout
Fishing for 8 to 11-inch rainbow trout is very good. The water level is now below the
boat launch so fishing with larger trailered boats is not possible.
Try flyfishing with a float tube or trolling with a small car-top type boat.
WOOD RIVER and all tributaries: redband, brown, brook and bull trout
Closed to fishing until April 25, 2015.
YELLOWJACKET LAKE: trout
About 4,000 legal (8 to 11-inches) rainbow trout were stocked into the lake during the
week of Oct. 3. Fishing should be good for the next few weeks and consistent
throughout the winter.
SOUTHEAST ZONE HUNTING
OPEN: COUGAR, BLACK BEAR, CONTROLLED ELK, GROUSE
See the bird and big game hunting forecasts.
Wolves and coyotes can look alike
Most wolves in the state today are in northeast Oregon but a few have dispersed further
west and south. Wolves are protected by state and/or federal law and it is unlawful to
shoot them. Coyote hunters need to take extra care to identify their target as wolves can
look like coyotes, especially wolf pups in the mid-summer and fall.
ODFW appreciates hunters’ assistance to establish wolves’ presence in Oregon; please
report any wolf sightings or wolf sign to ODFW using the online reporting system.
Use the Oregon Hunting Map to see where to hunt.
HARNEY COUNTY
Hunting maps for Harney County
Hunters are reminded of four Travel Management Areas in the Harney district. Two in
the Silvies Unit (Dairy Creek and Burnt Cabin) and two in the Malheur River Unit
(Conroy Cliff and Devine-Rattlesnake). Maps are available at each major entry point
of the travel management area as well as online and at the Hines office. Period of
restrictions are Oct. 1 through Oct. 10 and Oct. 26 through Nov. 16.
Elk – First season Bull ELK closed on Sunday Nov 2nd. Hunting conditions were cool
and damp during the first bull elk season. Second day hunter success was
significantly higher than last year in the Silvies WMU and North Malheur River hunt
area at 7% compared to 4.1% in 2013. Elk populations are stable, with good
numbers of yearling bulls available due to good recruitment last spring. The mild
winter experienced throughout southeast Oregon in 2014 has benefited most desert
species. Second season Bull ELK opens on Saturday Nov 8th. A few Cow ELK hunts
and either sex hunts are also open, in addition to the Youth antlerless elk hunts that
will continue through the end of December 2014.
Upland Game Bird season opened on Oct. 11. From late winter through summer of
2014, extremely dry weather persisted across much of SE Oregon which was poor for
habitat. Recent precipitation may help bird populations by providing some much
needed fall green up. Overall chukar and quail populations are expected to be similar
to the past two seasons, and are still below the 10 year average. PHEASANT hunting
opportunities are limited in Harney County. Check out the Malheur National Wildlife
Refuge website for pheasant and quail hunt areas open to the public.
Waterfowl season opened Oct. 11 as well. Hunting may be limited in the Harney
Basin due to low water conditions in Malheur Lake and most local reservoirs. Best
hunting opportunities will be for Canada geese on private lands, hunters are
reminded to get permission from the landowner before hunting on private lands.
Check out the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge website for detailed maps.
Fall Bear season continues thru Nov. 30. Bear populations in Harney County are
generally low. While no formal surveys are done for bear in this area, bear
populations appear to be stable. Hunters are reminded that hunter harvested bear
MUST be checked in at an ODFW field office within 10 days of harvest; please bring
bear in thawed and with mouth propped open for easier tissue and tooth collection.
Forest Grouse season is open thru Nov. 30. Grouse can be found in the forested
portions of the Silvies and Malheur Units, but population numbers are low.
Cougar hunting is open. The deadline to purchase a general season tag for the 2014
calendar year is Oct.3. If you have already purchased the general season tag you
may purchase an additional cougar tag at any time. Populations are healthy and
distributed throughout the district in any area with a big game prey base. Successful
hunters must check-in cougars no more than 10 days after harvest; please bring
cougar in thawed and with mouth propped open for easier tissue sampling, teeth
collection and tagging.
Coyote populations are fairly low throughout Harney County. Pups have dispersed
from the den. Standard predator calls will be effective from now through December.
Be aware that bobcats and cougars may respond to predator calls, and separate
licensing and season limitations exist for these species.
KLAMATH COUNTY
Waterfowl Seasons remain open through December 7, then duck season will reopen
on December 10 and goose season on December 15. Duck hunting is beginning to
slow down as birds have begun moving south out of the Klamath Basin.
Second Season Rocky Mountain Elk opened on Saturday, November 8 and runs
thru Nov. 16. Cooler wet weather should improve hunting conditions. Elk numbers,
although at fairly low densities, remain stable with good older age bulls available.
Controlled archery deer season for the Keno Unit remains open through
November 19. Recent precipitation and cooler temperatures should improve hunting
conditions.
Mountain quail season is now open with best prospects in the southern Keno Unit.
Look for brushy areas. Hunters are reminded of the daily bag limit of 2/day in
Klamath County.
Grouse Season includes both Blue and Ruffed Grouse with a daily bag limit of 3 per
species. For Blue Grouse, hunters should concentrate on semi-open ridge lines.
Ruffed grouse are restricted primarily to creek drainages in the Cascades although
birds can be found in some areas further east as well.
Fall Black Bear seasons are open until Nov. 30. While no formal surveys are done
for bear in this area, bear populations appear to be increasing. Highest
concentrations of bears in Klamath County will be found along the eastern slope of
the Cascade Mtns. In previous years, hunters have found success with stand hunting
near water holes and by glassing open hillsides where bears commonly feed on
berries during morning and evening hours. Hunters are reminded that hunter
harvested bear MUST be checked in at an ODFW field office for sample collection
and measurement. Field office staff are frequently out of the office, so please call
ahead to the nearest ODFW field office and make an appointment. Field office
locations and contact information can be found on the ODFW website.
Cougar - Hunting is open year round. Populations are healthy and distributed
throughout the district in any area with a big game prey base. Don’t forget
successful hunters must check-in cougars no more than 10 days after harvest;
please bring cougar in thawed and with mouth propped open so that field staff can
quickly process the animal and get you on your way.
Coyote populations are fairly low throughout Klamath County. Pups have now left
their dens, however adults are still very territorial. Coyote vocalization calls still work
best until the pups start to disperse, which will be mid to late August. Be aware that
bobcats and cougars may respond to predator calls, and separate licensing and
season limitations exist for these species.
KLAMATH WILDLIFE AREA
Klamath Wildlife Area is open to hunting during the general waterfowl and upland
game bird seasons. Please see the regulations for specific hunt information about
hunting at Klamath Wildlife Area. Federally approved non-toxic shot is required for all
game bird hunting on the Klamath Wildlife Area.
Gorr Island Unit
Gorr Island is located four miles south of the Miller Island Unit in the Klamath River,
accessible only by boat. Gorr Island is open daily with no permit required during
authorized seasons.
Shoalwater Bay Unit and Sesti Tgawaals Unit
Shoalwater Bay and Sesti Tgawaals are both located on the west side of Upper
Klamath Lake approximately 10 miles to the north and west of Klamath Falls.
Shoalwater Bay and Sesti Tgawaals Unit are both open for hunting daily with no
permit required during authorized seasons.
Miller Island Unit
The Miller Island Unit is located 6 miles south and west of Klamath Falls. The Miller
Island Unit is open to hunting on authorized hunt days (please see the 2014-15
Oregon Game Bird Regulations for more information) on a first-come, first-served
basis by permit. Hunter numbers are limited to 35 hunters per each of three units
until 1PM. At 1PM, all units close and all hunters must check out. Unit C then reopens until the end of shooting hours on a self-serve permit. Permits are required
and all hunters must check in and out at the check station located on Miller Island
Road near the railroad tracks. The check station will open 1 ½ hours prior to the
shooting hours posted in the Game Bird Regulations. Federally approved non-toxic
shot is required for all hunting. Pheasants donated by the local chapter of Unlimited
Pheasants will be released in all three units.
Waterfowl Hunting
Klamath Basin waterfowl numbers are available on the US Fish and Wildlife website.
For weekly updated hunt statistics please see ODFW Klamath Wildlife Area Harvest
Summaries for more information.
A Wildlife Area Parking Permit is now required to park on the Wildlife Area. Cost is $7
daily or $22 annually. Free with purchase of hunting license; just be sure to put it on your
dashboard. Buy online or at an ODFW office that sells licenses or at a license sales agent.
Overnight camping is not allowed on the Miller Island Unit. If you have any questions,
please contact Klamath Wildlife Area at (541) 883-5734
LAKE COUNTY
Rifle Elk – Elk populations throughout the county are very low compared to other
parts of Oregon. Hunter success usually ranges from 2 to 6%. All rifle elk hunts in
the county are under limited entry rules with a bull only bag limit.
Bear season continues thru Nov. 30 and populations in the county are low compared
to western Oregon or the Blue Mountain zone. Hunters are finding the best success
in forest openings that have berry producing shrubs. Hunters are reminded that
hunter harvested bear MUST be checked in at an ODFW field office within 10 days of
harvest; please bring bear in thawed and with mouth propped open for easier tissue
and tooth collection.
Cougar hunting is open. Populations are healthy due to good habitat and prey
base. If hunters can find a fresh cougar kill, calling within a ½ mile of that kill can
be very effective.
Coyote Pups have dispersed. Calls mimicking prey distress sounds will be effective
through the fall. Be aware that bobcats and cougars may respond to predator calls,
and separate licensing and season limitations exist for these species.
Forest Grouse season continues thru Dec. 31. There are very few Ruffed Grouse in
the county and Blue Grouse populations are restricted to the higher elevation forest
openings with berry producing shrubs or aspen. Hunters are asked to provide one
wing and the tail of each bird harvested for population monitoring. Contact the
Lakeview Office at 541-947-2950 for collection bags.
Upland Bird – Chukar and quail seasons are open. The chukar hatch appears to
be better than last year. Hunters should focus on the major rims with desert
vegetation in the Beatys Butte, Juniper, Wagontire and Warner units. Almost all
quail populations are restricted to private land and hunters must get permission
before hunting. Hunting opportunity for quail on public land are restricted to the
Warner Wetlands and Summer Lake Wildlife Area.
Waterfowl - Hunting conditions are poor throughout most of the county. All the
Warner Valley lakes are primarily dry, with the only water being from the springs
along the shore line or at the mouths of the creeks. After the recent rains Lake Abert
has sheet water but the only permanent water is at the springs along the shore line.
Goose Lake is dry.
SUMMER LAKE WILDLIFE AREA
This section was updated on November 10, 2014
The fourth week of hunting season was fair for ducks, upland and other game birds,
but poor for geese and with reduced hunter participation. Decoy hunters willing to
spend time in the field did well, while pass shooters did very poorly. Upland bird
hunting pressure remains light.
Weather conditions were generally unsettled and somewhat stormy during the
beginning of the week, but became clear and calm for the remainder of the week.
Skies were mostly clear and winds were calm to moderate most of the week.
For the 4Th week of the season, hunter participation (192 check-in) was down
significantly (-18.6%) from last year and reported harvest (93.2% check-out) of
280 birds (230 ducks, 21 geese, 6 American coots, and 23 California quail) was
down (-41.4%) from the same week of the season last year.
Duck harvest was reported to consist of 56 American wigeon, 34 mallards, 40 N.
shoveler, 31 gadwall, 23 N. pintail, 22 American green-winged teal, 14 Bufflehead,
and 10 other ducks of 3 different species. The duck per hunter average of 1.38 was
down (-11.5%) from last year.
The goose harvest consisted of 8 snows, 7 white-fronted, 6 Canada geese. The goose
per hunter average of 0.13 was down (-73.3%) from last year.
American coot harvest was down (6 vs. 18) from the same week last year.
Ring-necked pheasant harvest was down (0 vs. 2), while California quail take (23)
was up (283.3%) compared to 2013.
The prospect for the upcoming week remains fair. Weather conditions for the
upcoming week are forecasted to be mild with the coldest night time temperatures
seen so far this winter. Chances of rain and snow are forecasted for Wednesday
through Friday with mild wind conditions. However, the weekend is forecasted to
have partly clear skies and moderate temperatures. Most waterfowl continue to
remain in refuge and/or sanctuary areas or on Summer Lake proper. Food is
abundant in these areas and birds will have little need to make foraging flights to
other areas unless weather conditions become favorable.
Pass shooting from dikes or along refuge boundaries will continue to be very poor.
Hunters utilizing decoys and willing to spend most of the day in the marsh, away
from dikes and levees, should continue to have fair to good success.
The weekly waterfowl count conducted on Wednesday Nov. 5 found about 44,400
ducks and 1,600 geese present and new arrivals over the past week were not
obvious with the exception of the arrival of tundra swans. The next count is
scheduled for November 12Th and results will be posted on the department website
and wildlife area’s telephone answering machine the following day.
Habitat conditions were good with most all units being fully flooded or nearly so.
Flooding continues to increase, especially along the northwest portion of the head of
the lake. Wetland areas off the west side of Bullgate Dike are beginning to flood as is
the recently enhanced Bullgate Refuge.
Hunter must obtain a free daily hunting permit that can be obtained at the
Checking Station 1.3 miles south of the town of Summer Lake. Permits may
be obtained for 2 consecutive days (one for each day) at one time and
check-out is required daily or at the end of the 2 day period.
The Check Station lobby area is open and daily hunting permits are available 24
hours a day, 7 days a week.
Hunters will need current year hunting licenses with appropriate HIP and Game Bird
validations. Please remember, if have a Sports-Pac license; you will have had
to return to a POS agent in order to update your waterfowl and upland game
bird validations and complete the HIP validation. Federal Migratory Bird
Hunting and Conservation Stamps (duck stamps) are required for hunters over 16
years and are available from US Post Offices and sometimes license agents. Stamps
must be signed across the face in ink to be valid for hunting.
Youths under 18 must have a hunter education card (or certification on their hunting
license) in their possession. Please consult the 2014-2015 Oregon Game Bird
Regulations for licensing requirements and bag limits.
Please remember, posted refuges are closed to all hunting. Non-toxic shot is required
for all game bird hunting on the wildlife area. Please contact Summer Lake Wildlife
Area at (541) 943-3152 or email [email protected] for additional information.
MALHEUR COUNTY
Drought Most of SE Oregon is in extreme drought conditions however timely spring
rains in March and April resulted in good growth of annual grasses creating prime
conditions for wildfire. Hunters are reminded to check with the appropriate land
management agency for fire restrictions and to follow those restrictions.
Water is extremely limited in places and is impacting distribution of wildlife and
livestock. Please avoid camping near limited water sources.
Cougar hunting is open. Populations are healthy and distributed throughout the
district in any area with a big game prey base. Successful hunters must check-in
cougars no more than 10 days after harvest; please bring cougar in thawed and with
mouth propped open for easier tissue sampling, teeth collection and tagging.
Coyote hunting is available throughout the district. Coyote pups are dispersing and
can be responsive to calls this time of year.
UPLAND BIRDS – Record rain fall in the North end of Malheur County in
September 2013 resulted in good fall green up, combined with a mild winter and
favorable rains early in the spring upland bird production increased significantly
from previous years.
Chukar surveys on established routes yielded 47 chukar per 10 miles and very
good production with 11.5 chicks per brood. This is a 135% increase from last
year when 20.2 birds per 10 miles were measured and is 7% below the 10-year
average of 50.7 birds per 10 miles. The Succor Creek/Leslie Gulch area has only
experienced limited recovery. The poor range conditions caused by ongoing
invasion of exotic annual grass (medusahead) likely limits the ability of birds in
this area to successfully raise broods. The most productive routes were South of
Harper in the Cottonwood Canyon, Freezout/Dry Creek (west side of the Owyhee
reservoir a North of Hwy 20.
Pheasant - The surveys along established routes yielded 7.4 birds per 10 miles
which is a 21% increase in number of birds observed from last year’s survey and
14% below the 10-year average. Chick production above averaged at 4.4 chicks
per brood. Hunting prospects will vary depending on the farming practices in the
area where you have permission to hunt. The outlying areas around Willow Creek
and Vale have higher bird numbers than areas closer to Ontario and Nyssa. There
is very little public land pheasant hunting opportunity in the area and the few
parcels that are available tend to get hunted daily. One option for private lands
access is the Cow Hollow fundraiser to benefit the Cow Hollow Park.
California quail
Quail production was up in agricultural areas and good in rangelands. Surveys on
established routes showed 44 quail per 10 miles, up 35% down over last year and
16% above the 10-year average. Production was 9.8 chicks per brood with similar
production observed in rangelands. Overall quail populations still remain low in
rangelands due to depressed populations from previous years.
SOUTHEAST ZONE VIEWING
HARNEY COUNTY
Most migrant shorebirds and sandhill cranes have passed through the area for
wintering areas further south. Look to agricultural lands near Burns for viewing
opportunities of migrant Canada geese.
As the fall season progresses, look for deer, elk, and antelope to remain active for
longer periods of the day. Many populations of deer and elk will begin to move into
lower elevations as severe weather events increase in frequency and daylight
hours dwindle. This annual transition into winter ranges often makes large animals
more visible, and may provide opportunities for viewers and photographers.
11/4/14.
KLAMATH COUNTY
Klamath Falls Area
A Wildlife Area Parking Permit is required to park on the Wildlife Area. Cost is $7
daily or $22 annually. Free with purchase of hunting license. Buy online or at an
ODFW office that sells licenses or at a license sales agent. Learn more.
Waterfowl
Great Basin Canada geese can be found scattered throughout the Miller Island Unit
along with mallards, northern pintail, gadwall, northern shoveler, and American
green-winged teal.
Shorebirds, waders and other waterbirds
Shorebird numbers continue to decline on the wildlife area as winter progresses. A
few long-billed dowitchers, common snipe, greater yellow legs and killdeer can
currently be seen on the wildlife area.
Double crested cormorants can be seen in large numbers on the Klamath River.
Pied billed, eared and western and Clark’s grebes can still be found on the wildlife
area and Klamath River.
Raptors
Great horned and barn owls can be seen at dusk. Red-tailed hawks, northern
harriers, cooper hawks, prairie falcons and American bald eagles can be seen
foraging throughout the wildlife area.
Upland Game Birds
California quail are scattered around the old homesteads and the headquarters area.
Passerines
Mourning and Eurasian collared dove can be found scattered over the area. American
goldfinches, house finches, spotted towhees, white crowned sparrows and yellow
rumped warblers continue to be a common site throughout the area.
Marsh wrens and song sparrows can be found in dense stands of tall emergent
hardstem bulrush and broad-leaved cattail and are very numerous.
Klamath Basin waterfowl numbers are available on the US Fish and Wildlife website.
Overnight camping is not allowed on the Miller Island Unit. If you have any
questions, please contact Klamath Wildlife Area at (541) 883-5734. 11/01/14.
LAKE COUNTY
All of the large shallow lakes in the county are dry and therefore most migrating
shore birds will bypass the county this fall. There are a few shore birds using the
fresh water springs and shallow channels remaining in Lake Abert.
Rough-leg hawks have arrived. The fall migration is over and most summer
residents have moved south. 11/12/14.
SUMMER LAKE WILDLIFE AREA
This section was updated on November 10, 2014.
Summer Lake Wildlife Area requires a new calendar year 2014 $7 daily parking
permit or a $22 annual parking permit. Parking permits can be purchased at any
ODFW license agent or through the ODFW website. Locally, parking permits can be
purchased at the Summer Lake Store, 1.3 miles north of Headquarters.
Vehicle access to the Wildlife Viewing Loop and major dike roads (Windbreak and
Work Road) is closed for the remainder of the year.
Wetland conditions are good; semi-permanent marshes and sizeable areas of
seasonally flooded wetlands are receiving heavy waterbird use. Water levels in
most seasonal wetlands and some semi-permanent marsh units continue to
increase. Emergent vegetation is entering winter senescence and is beginning to
lodge-over due to recent strong winds.
Waterfowl
Waterfowl populations remain in good numbers as migrants continue to arrive. Birds
are widely dispersed across the entire wildlife area due to excellent habitat conditions.
The weekly count conducted on November 5 found 44,400 ducks (11 species) on
the area. Good numbers of migrant northern pintail, northern shoveler, American
wigeon and American green-winged teal and some divers (canvasback and
ringneck) were observed.
Lesser snow geese are starting to migrate south, but 1,000 were still present. Canada
geese are widely scattered across the wildlife area’s wetlands and numbered about
600 on the weekly count. Greater white-fronted geese are continuing to decline as
they migrate to California wintering areas, about 100 were observed.
Resident trumpeter swans number about 15-20 non-breeders, all part of restoration
efforts, can be found scattered across the wildlife area. One pair successfully nested
this year and is rearing one cygnet at this time. All of these birds will be neckbanded with green collars and white alphanumeric symbols.
Viewers are encouraged to “read” the collars and report them to wildlife area
personnel. Collars will have the Greek letter Theta (Ѳ) and two side-ways laying
numerals that are read from the body toward the head. Migrant tundra swans
continue to arrive with around 700 observed during the weekly count.
Shorebirds, waders and other waterbirds
Shorebird numbers continue to decline at this time as fall migration is nearly over. A
few long-billed dowitchers, killdeer, peeps and yellowlegs remain.
Very few gulls and terns remain and only a few American white pelican and
double-crested cormorants can still be found on the area.
Sandhill cranes have migrated south to wintering areas in California. American coots
remain very numerous, about 12,000 were found during the weekly count.
Several species of grebes (eared, western, pied-billed and Clark’s) can be found
scattered across the wildlife area. A few American bittern, great blue herons, great
egrets and an occasional white-faced ibis continue to be observed.
Raptors and others
Resident and migrant raptors, especially red-tailed hawks are scattered throughout the
Wildlife Area as well as on private lands along Hwy 31. Several rough-legged hawks
were observed during the weekly count, their numbers should continue to grow over
the coming weeks. Northern harriers are commonly observed over marsh and hay
meadows. Bald and golden eagle can be occasionally observed. A red-shouldered hawk
has been present at the Headquarters Orchard area for the past several weeks, and
migrant accipiters are occasionally observed.
Prairie falcons are sometimes observed.
Great horned owls can be found scattered across the entire wildlife area, especially in
the trees at campgrounds and common-barn owls are sometimes observed or heard
at night at Headquarters.
Upland game birds
California quail and ring-necked pheasants are widely scattered across the north
end of the wildlife area. Coveys of quail are sometimes seen, especially around the
Headquarters Refuge. Pheasants are difficult to observe since hunting seasons
have started.
Passerines
Eurasian collared doves remain very numerous at Headquarters Complex and
mourning doves are occasionally observed.
American and lesser goldfinches continue to be observed in good numbers at
Headquarters. Song sparrows are very common along dikes and levees. American
robins and sometimes cedar waxwings are fairly abundant around Headquarters now.
A western bluebird was observed at Headquarters over the weekend, and wintering
Townsend’s solitaires are beginning to arrive. Migrant white-crowned sparrows are
numerous at this time and a few golden-crowned sparrows and spotted towhees have
been observed recently. A fox sparrow and Swainson’s thrush was observed over the
past week at the Headquarters feeder.
Hummingbirds have departed the area to warmer climes.
Marsh wrens and song sparrows can be found in dense stands of tall emergent
hardstem bulrush and broad-leaved cattail and are very numerous.
Blackbird numbers are declining at this time, although a few flocks and scattered
individuals continue to be observed. Large flocks of European starlings continue to
be observed.
Facilities and Access
Please remember: Calendar year 2014 parking permits are required!
Summer Lake Wildlife Area requires a $7 daily parking permit or a $22 annual
parking permit. Parking permits can be purchased at any Point of Sale Agent or
through the ODFW website.
Locally, parking permits can be purchased at the Summer Lake Store, 1.3 miles
north of Headquarters.
The Wildlife Viewing Loop and major dike roads (Windbreak and Work Road) are now
closed for the remainder of the year.
The Wildlife Viewing Blind on the edge of Schoolhouse Lake Refuge affords an
excellent opportunity to view a wide variety of waterbirds.
Camping is permitted at four sites on the Wildlife Area. Campgrounds are primitive
but each has vault toilets, trash barrels and a few picnic tables.
Habitat
Currently nearly most of the wildlife area’s wetlands are fairly well flooded.
Bullgate Refuge remains largely partially dry from the recently completed wetland
enhancement work. Flooding is underway at this time.
Summer Lake continues to increase in size at this time. A good amount of water is
flowing into the northern portion of the lake now, but the remainder of the playa is
dry. Exposed and newly flooded emergent marsh areas and muddy shorelines will
provide good habitat conditions for waterfowl staging.
Emergent wetland vegetation is moving into fall senescence across all wetland
areas now.
Upland habitat remains in excellent condition with considerable residual vegetation
and extensive new growth of grasses and forbs that is providing high quality food
and cover for many wildlife species. Planted tree and shrub plots are providing
excellent sheltered sites for many wildlife species. Nearly all shrub species have set
an abundant fruit crop.
Please contact Summer Lake Wildlife Area at (541) 943-3152 or e-mail
[email protected] for additional information.
FISHING
Weekend fishing opportunities
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Steelhead fishing on the Umatilla River continues to be excellent.
Good steelhead fishing continues on the Grande Ronde River.
2014 trout stocking
The 2014 trout stocking schedule for the Northeast Zone is now posted on-line on
along with other districts on the ODFW trout stocking page.
Send us your fishing report
We’d love to hear about your recent fishing experience. Send us your fishing report
through ODFW Fishing Reports -- the information will be forwarded to the local
biologist who may use it to update various ODFW resources such as the Weekly
Recreation Report.
BULL PRAIRIE RESERVOIR: rainbow and brook trout
Remains open all year. Approximately 200 trophy rainbow trout were stocked on
Sept. 23. They will provide good fishing for the remainder of the year.
GRANDE RONDE RIVER: trout, bass
The Grande Ronde River is open for steelhead as of Sept. 1. Catch were great last
week at 3.7 hours a fish. Flows are still currently low, but there is still the
opportunity to fish a few holes using different techniques. The best fishing can be
found when flows are decreasing following a peak in the hydrograph which usually
occurs after a heavy rain. Current run forecasts show a high proportion of older fish.
So, expect a few larger fish this year. Remember, only adipose-fin clipped rainbow
trout may be retained and all bull trout must be released unharmed. Trout fishing
closes on Oct. 31. Fall chinook are in the lower Grande Ronde and anglers a catching
a few. There is no open Chinook season on the Grande Ronde. Please release these
fish immediately and allow them to finish spawning.
HOLLIDAY PARK POND: trout
Remains open all year. Trophy trout were stocked on Sept. 23 and should provide
good fall fishing.
HUNTER POND: trout
Hunter Pond is located about 3 miles south of Hwy 244 off of USFS Rd 5160. The
pond is located on the 710 spur just west of 5160. The pond was stocked with
trophy-sized rainbow trout in mid-September.
IMNAHA RIVER: trout, bass, Chinook
The Imnaha River is open for steelhead as of Sept. 1. PIT-tag detections show a
number of steelhead moving up the lower river and anglers are beginning to have
success. Fall chinook are in the lower river to spawn. There is no open Chinook
season on the Imnaha River. Please release these fish unharmed and allow them to
complete the cycle.
Trout anglers may find some success as the water cools and trout become more
active. Remember, below the mouth of Big Sheep Creek only adipose-fin clipped
trout may be harvested. All bull trout must be released unharmed.
The upper Imnaha has a healthy population of mountain whitefish (a member of the
trout family) and can produce some large fish. Look for whitefish in deep pools and
runs. Whitefish will take small bead-head nymphs and small spinners. Trout fishing
closes Oct. 31. Trout fishing closes Oct. 31.
JOHN DAY RIVER: smallmouth bass, trout, steelhead
Flows are now over 300 cfs and summer steelhead have begun moving into the
lower river. The mouth of Rock Creek and Cottonwood Canyon State Park provide
the best bank access. Floating with drift boats will be difficult until flows increase
to 450 cfs or over.
Fly, lure and bait fishing are all producing steelhead. ODFW encourages all anglers
to keep any ad-clipped steelhead taken in this fishery. All wild (adipose intact)
steelhead must be released unharmed. Water temperatures are now too cold for
bass fishing and trout fishing closed Oct. 31.
Check John Day River flows
JUBILEE LAKE: rainbow trout
The lake has been stocked and should provide good fishing for rainbow trout. Anglers
should concentrate on the deeper areas near the dam or use a non-motorized boat
to reach the deeper areas of the lake.
JUMP-OFF-JOE LAKE: brook trout
This high lake near Desolation Creek will remain accessible for the next two weeks
and presently has large brook trout available. It requires a ½ mile hike. Fishing is
poor from the bank and a float tube or raft will greatly improve your chances.
LONG CREEK POND, CAVENDER POND: trout
Remains open all year. Trophy trout were stocked on Sept. 23 and should provide
good fall fishing. Bass fishing is likely fair to poor with dropping fall temperatures.
LUGER POND: trout
The pond was recently stocked with trophy-sized rainbow trout.
MAGONE LAKE: rainbow and brook trout
Remains open all year. Fishing is good for brook trout and rainbow.
MORGAN LAKE: rainbow trout
Closed to fishing on Nov. 1.
OLIVE LAKE: rainbow, kokanee
Remains open all year but will be accessible for the next two weeks only. There is a
campground with boat launch.
Carryover rainbows are available along with recently planted jumbo trout.
PEACH POND (Ladd Marsh): rainbow trout
The pond was stocked with trophy-sized rainbow trout in late September.
PENDLAND LAKE: rainbow trout
As water temperatures cool with fall weather, angling pressure diminishes and catch
rates improve. Bring a boat or float tube to reach the best fishing areas. Fly-fishing
shines during the fall months.
ROULET POND: rainbow trout
The pond was stocked with trophy-sized rainbow trout in late September.
ROWE CREEK RESERVOIR: rainbow trout
Remains open all year. Fishing is good.
TAYLOR GREEN POND: rainbow trout
This was a new stocking site in 2013. The pond is located in a gravel pit just off
USFS Rd. 7740, approximately ½ mile south of the Jct. with USFS Rd. 7700. The
pond was recently stocked with trophy-sized rainbow trout.
TROUT FARM POND: rainbow and brook trout
Remains open all year. Fishing for rainbow and brook trout is fair. Carryover and
legal-sized rainbows are available.
UMATILLA FOREST PONDS: trout
The following ponds have been stocked to date: Ninemile, Shimmiehorn, skyline,
Boundary, Key hole, Pearson Ridge Twin, Goldfish, 5412, Yellow Jacket, Granite
Meadows, French Corral, Four Corners and Frog Heaven. The South Umatilla Ponds
will be stocked this week (Ellis, Gopher springs, Divide well, Rock pit, Sugarbowl,
5320, Thompson and Stinkwater) All should provide good fishing.
UMATILLA RIVER: salmon
Steelhead fishing was great last week with anglers averaging 1.6 hours per steelhead
caught. Angling effort for salmon has dropped off as salmon are getting dark and are
nearing spawning and should be handled with care prior to release.
Catch rates continue to be fair for salmon in the lower river (5.6 hours per salmon
caught); Anglers are concentrating on the lower river downstream of Threemile Dam
and the backwater area of the Columbia River.
Anglers are find best success using eggs for salmon in the upstream areas of the
Umatilla and spinners and plugs in the mouth of the Umatilla. Fish numbers and
catch will improve as the flows increase and water temperatures decrease. Anglers
should consult the synopsis for detailed regulations.
Threemile Dam fish counts
WALLOWA LAKE: rainbow trout, kokanee, lake trout
Fishing for rainbow trout has slowed. However, some fish are still available and some
tagged fish are still being reported. Trout have been caught with a variety of methods
but a simple rig with PowerBait has been most effective.
The lake was stocked with tagged rainbow trout in an effort by ODFW to better
understand the utilization of this fishery. Tagged fish have been caught at very high
rates and over $2,700 in rewards have been paid.
WALLOWA RIVER: steelhead, mountain whitefish, chinook
The Wallowa River has been fishing well for larger trout. Catch rates on fin-clipped trout
have also been good and anglers are encouraged to harvest these fish. For fly anglers,
October caddis’ are on the river and trout are keying in on these large snacks. The best
dry fly fishing is in the late evening. During mid-day nymph fishing will produce the
most fish. Most spinner and bait fishing techniques also will be very effective.
Remember, below Rock Creek only adipose-fin clipped trout may be harvested. All bull
trout must be released unharmed. Angling for whitefish (a member of the trout family)
can be very good in the fall. Use small gear fished in the slow deep runs. Whitefish in
the Wallowa are often large and can exceed 18 inches.
Trout season closes on Oct. 31. The Wallowa is also open to steelhead fishing as of
Sept. 1. While a few fall fish are caught every year, the main run will not show in mass
till late winter.
NORTHEAST ZONE HUNTING
OPEN: ROCKY MTN ELK (2nd season Nov. 8-16, see regs), COUGAR, BLACK
BEAR, GROUSE, WATERFOWL (see regs)
See the bird and big game hunting forecasts.
Wolves in Northeast Oregon
Wolves are protected by state law and it is unlawful to shoot them. Coyote hunters in
northeastern Oregon need to take extra care to identify their target as wolves can look
like coyotes, especially wolf pups in the mid-summer and fall. ODFW needs hunters’
assistance to establish wolves’ presence in Oregon; please report any wolf sightings or
wolf sign to La Grande office (541) 963-2138 or online with the Wolf Reporting Form.
Use the Oregon Hunting Map to see where to hunt.
BAKER COUNTY
Closure of Wallowa Mountain Loop Road (Forest Road 39)
Elk- Spike season starts Saturday November 8 and ends November 16. Elk numbers
are good in most units and elk have been scattered and hard to locate. If we get
fresh snow hunters may have good luck looking for tracks and then following them.
Chuckar, Hun, and California Quail - The season opens Oct. 11 and ends Jan. 31,
2015. Hunters should expect another season very similar to last years. Chukar
numbers are still low for the county, however quail numbers showed a slight increase
from last year.
Grouse - Blue grouse can be found in the higher elevations while ruffed grouse are
more common in wetter areas. Hunters should expect an average year for grouse.
Successful hunters are asked to place the tails and wings from harvested birds in the
collection barrels.
Bear - Successful hunters, remember check-in of bear skull is mandatory; see the
regulations for details. Biologists recommend propping the bear’s mouth open with a stick
after harvest; it makes for easier tooth collection and measuring.
Cougars can be found throughout Baker County but hunters should target areas
with high concentrations of deer and elk. Setting up on a fresh kill or using distress
calls can all be productive techniques. Hunters are required to check in the hide of
any cougar taken, with skull and proof of sex attached.
Coyote numbers are good throughout the district. Try calling in early morning and
late afternoon. Remember to ask for permission before hunting on private properties.
GRANT COUNTY
The Phillip W. Schneider Wildlife Area (Murderers Creek Unit, Grant County) is open
to public access. Contact the Malheur Forest Service website for more information on
any area closures related to South Fork Complex fire earlier in the year.
Travel Management Area (TMA) closures will be effective Oct. 26.- Nov. 16 for the
areas in Murderers Creek-Flagtail TMA (Murderers Creek Unit, Grant County) and
Camp Creek TMA (Northside Unit, Grant County).
Elk – Second season bull starts November 8th and runs through November 16th.
The elk are scattered and may be hard to locate. Last week’s rain and snow in the
high country should help with tracking and make hunting conditions better than
first season bull.
Grouse season started Sept. 1 and will remain open through Dec. 31. Blue grouse can
be found in the higher elevations while ruffed grouse are more common in wetter
areas. Hunters have had great success so far this season. Successful hunters are
asked to place the tails and wings from harvested birds in the collection barrels.
Cougar hunting remains open. Successful hunters should remember that check-in
of the hide with skull and proof of sex attached is mandatory; see the regulations
for details.
Coyote numbers are good in most of the district. Coyotes may respond to distress
calls. Try calling in the early morning and late evening.
MORROW, GILLIAM AND WHEELER COUNTIES
Elk – Second season bull starts November 8th and runs through November 16th.
Warmer weather conditions have limited success somewhat. Heppner spike
hunters are slightly below average for the opening weekend, and Fossil unit bull
hunters are about average. Snow and colder weather is predicted for later in the
week which should improve hunting conditions. There are still some road closures
on the Umatilla NF in the Heppner ranger district. The road closures are in the
southwest portion of the forest in the Heppner unit mainly associated with the
Sunflower Flats fire. Hunters can still access all areas of the forest; the route needed
may make it a longer trip.
Cougar hunting is open. Cougar are well distributed in our forested areas. Calling
with distress calls or cougar vocalizations can be effective. With snow coming,
tracking down a cougar is a possibility. However, locating a fresh, naturally made kill
has the best chance of success.
The Coyote population is healthy with good numbers of coyotes available for those
who wish to pursue them. Watch wind direction to help prevent giving away your
location. Calling with game distress calls can be very successful.
UMATILLA COUNTY
Public use restrictions on the Umatilla NF and Wallowa-Whitman NF have been
eased; see their website for latest and always check for conditions and restrictions
before heading out.
Cougar are well distributed in forested areas of the Walla Walla, Mt. Emily, and
Ukiah units. Hunters will have best success by finding a fresh naturally made kill and
sitting on it, or by using predator calls. Some success has come from following tracks
until the cougar is located.
Coyote are numerous throughout the District and hunters should have good success
calling. Remember to ask permission before hunting on private lands.
UNION COUNTY
Elk hunters can expect some moist weather for the season. Elk numbers are stable
in the Starkey and Catherine Creek Units, both of which are close to management
objective (M.O). Bulls should be in good condition with the abundance of forage this
year. Hunters are reminded that weather changes rapidly this time of year and to be
prepared for snow and ice.
Black Bears are plentiful throughout the county. Look for sign around fruit trees and
in canyon bottoms. Hunt in the early morning and evenings for the best chance of
seeing bears. Bear skulls must be checked in within ten days of harvest, see
regulations.
Cougars are common in Union County. Focus on game rich areas with long
ridgelines or saddles that cats typically travel. Setting up downwind of a deer or elk
killed by a cougar can be productive. Nonresident hunters can include a cougar tag
with others tags for only $14.50. All cougars taken must be checked in within 10
days of harvest; call for an appointment before check in.
Coyote numbers are good throughout the district. Try calling in early morning and
late afternoon. Remember to ask for permission before hunting on private properties.
Ladd Marsh Wildlife Area
Ladd Marsh Wildlife Area is open Saturday, Sunday, Wednesday and federal holidays
during pheasant, quail, partridge and waterfowl seasons. Visitors are advised to
carefully read posted signs and consult game bird regulations before entering the
wildlife area. Early season waterfowl hunting has been fair to good. Spring nesting
conditions were excellent and waterfowl production on Ladd Marsh and Oregon in
general was up this year. As usual waterfowl hunting will depend largely on fall
wetland conditions and weather. Continued drought in NE Oregon may limit early
season hunting opportunities. At this time most areas along Peach road have good
water. However, wetlands west of state highway 203 remain dry. Hunters should
watch local weather reports for high winds near Ladd and Pyles canyons. This
generally means good waterfowl hunting at Ladd Marsh. Upland hunting has been
good for pheasants and quail. Nesting conditions were good for both this year.
Access for upland hunting is excellent due to low water. Hunt areas near water with
dogs for the best success.
Ladd Marsh harvest statistics
Note: all visitors including hunters must have in their possession a free daily permit
to access the wildlife area. Permits and area maps/regulation are available at several
self-check-in stations at entry points and parking lots. Wildlife hunters, viewers and
anglers also need a parking permit to park on the wildlife area. Hunters receive a
free parking permit with their hunting license. The $7 daily or $22 annual permit can
be purchased online or at an ODFW office that sells licenses or at a license sales
agent. Learn more about ODFW’s Wildlife Area Parking Permit Program. Parking
permits are to be displayed on the vehicle dash. More information
WALLOWA COUNTY
Closure of Wallowa Mountain Loop Road (Forest Road 39)
Black Bear - A good density of black bear exists throughout the district. Most bears
are in their winter dens now. For those few bears that are still active, hunters should
focus efforts in berry patches and old fruit orchards.
Elk - Numbers of elk are strong throughout most of Wallowa County with good bull to
cow ratios in all units. Recent snow storms began moving some animals to lower
ranges, and second bull season hunters had 10% success during the opening weekend.
Forest Grouse hunting has been poor – fair in recent years and this year is
similar. Blue grouse numbers are below the long term average, and most birds
have moved to timber stands where they spend the winter eating conifer buds.
Ruffed grouse hunting opportunities will be best along riparian areas where
abundant shrubs are found.
Chukar hunting has been poor to fair in recent years, but this year a good hatch
should produce an improvement in chukar numbers. The season started October 5.
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.
Cougar numbers are strong throughout Wallowa County. Most lions are taken
incidental to other hunting; however, calling with fawn bleat, or locating a cougar kill
and waiting for a cat to return are often successful techniques.
NORTHEAST ZONE VIEWING
BAKER COUNTY
Bighorn sheep can be seen in the Burnt River Canyon west of Durkee or along the
Snake River Road south of Richland. Ewes can be seen with their lambs this time of
year. The best viewing is in the early morning and late in the evening.
Bald and golden eagles can be seen along the Snake River. Take the Snake River
Road between Richland and Huntington. 10/7/11.
GRANT COUNTY
Sandhill cranes have started to migrate through the valley. They are best viewed
early in the morning along the John Day River.
Mountain Goats can still be viewed along the rocky outcrops above Strawberry Lake.
Small mammals such as black squirrels and chipmunks are readily seen while
walking up the trail to the lake.
Watch for deer and elk crossing the highways. This is the time of year when deer
begin to migrate. Dawn and dusk are the most active time for deer and elk and are
not easily seen due to low light conditions by drivers alongside the road. 10/6/2014
MORROW, GILLIAM AND WHEELER COUNTIES
The first of our winter migrants has been spotted, a rough-legged hawk. As winter’s
bite increases so will the number of rough-legged hawks in the area. Try any of the
areas in the northern portion of the District to see one in the grasslands. As raptors
continue their migration into winter, take a longer look at any hawks you spot on
power poles, occasionally it is a rare species.
Deer are grouped for the winter and anywhere in the foothills is a good place to
watch deer, river bottoms are best.
Waterfowl are starting to show up on the waterways of the District. Canada and
snow geese can be seen along the Columbia in moderate numbers. While on the
Columbia you can see, mallards, buffle-heads, teal, northern shovelers, scaup,
American wigeon, and gadwall. 11/12/14.
UMATILLA COUNTY
Deer and elk are starting to orient to green-up areas of annual grass in the low and
mid slope areas of the Blue Mountains. Large herds of elk will be intermingled in the
trees at mid elevation areas. Deer will be more widespread with small groups present
from near field edge to upper forest areas.
UNION COUNTY
Ladd Marsh Wildlife Area
Note: New this year: All visitors must have in their possession a free daily
permit to access the wildlife area. Permits are available at several self-check-in
stations at entry points and parking lots. Wildlife viewers and anglers also need a
parking permit to park on the wildlife area. The $7 daily or $22 annual permit can be
purchased online or at an ODFW office that sells licenses or at a license sales agent.
Learn more about ODFW’s Wildlife Area Parking Permit Program.
The Tule Lake autoroute is closed to vehicles, the Tule Lake unit and most of the
wildlife area is open Sat., Sun., Wed. and holidays during the waterfowl and
pheasant hunting seasons. The Glass Hill Unit is open to public entry 7 days a week
for foot and horse traffic only. Be aware that hunting seasons are open. Please see
the note above regarding daily permits. Visitors are advised to carefully read posted
signs and consult the wildlife area administrative rules.
Rules that apply to all areas are at the top, and then scroll down to page 8, #635008-120, for additional rules specific to Ladd Marsh. Dogs are not permitted within
the Wildlife Area, on or off leash except during authorized hunting seasons. There
are numerous quality viewing opportunities from county roads that pass through the
area. Binoculars or a spotting scope will help as many animals are best viewed from
a distance.
As is typical for late summer and early fall, water levels are extremely low.
Waterfowl are concentrated in the remaining ponds and wetlands including the
Foothill Road refuge. A few greater white-fronted geese have been in the area along
with Canada geese and a variety of ducks, coots and mergansers.
At least three Lesser Yellowlegs remain in the area. Warm, dry weather seems to
have delayed their movement south. A few Great Egrets have been seen in the
refuge with Great Blue Herons and waterfowl.
Large numbers of white-crowned sparrows have been found in shrubby areas along
with song sparrows. Cedar Waxwings can be found foraging in fruit trees, mountain
ash and hawthorn.
Please report any sandhill cranes wearing leg bands to the Ladd Marsh staff (541963-4954). If possible, note the color and order of bands on each of the bird’s legs
(e.g., pink above white on left leg; silver above black on right leg). The specific
combination and order can identify individual birds.
For more information on access rules for Ladd Marsh Wildlife Area, please consult the
Oregon Game Bird Regulations or call the wildlife area (541) 963-4954. 10/21/14.
WALLOWA COUNTY
The elk on the Zumwalt Prairie are on the open prairie now and the mid-elevation
forests. Occasional large herds can be seen from the Zumwalt Road or on The Nature
Conservancy’s Zumwalt Prairie Preserve. Once you find a herd, use binoculars or a
spotting scope to observe the animals. Another good area to spot elk is from the
Troy Road as it passes through the Shilo Ranch on the north end of Powwatka Ridge.
This is a county road, but is bordered on both sides by private land. Please watch
from the road and don’t trespass on the ranch.
Resident waterfowl can be seen flying into Wallowa Lake in the evenings from the
county park at the north end of the lake. Migrant waterfowl are also moving into the
area. Canada geese can be seen feeding in agricultural fields and along streams
around the county. Other winter migrants have begun to move into the area with a
western grebe observed on Wallowa Lake this week. 11/12/14
FISHING
New salmon, steelhead, sturgeon endorsement
Beginning Jan. 1, 2014 anglers fishing for salmon, steelhead or sturgeon in the Columbia
River and its tributaries will be required to have a Columbia River Basin endorsement.
See a map of the Basin and get more information.
Send us your fishing report
We’d love to hear about your recent fishing experience. Send us your own fishing
report through ODFW Fishing Reports -- the information will be forwarded to the
local biologist who may use it to update various ODFW resources such as the Weekly
Recreation Report.
BROWNLEE RESERVOIR: crappie, bass, perch, catfish, bluegill, trout
No recent fishing report.
Call the Idaho Power Company’s recording at 1-800-422-3143 to get information on
access at recreational sites.
Reservoir level information
OXBOW RESERVOIR: trout, crappie, bass, catfish
No recent fishing report.
HELLS CANYON RESERVOIR: trout, crappie, bass, catfish
Outplants of adult steelhead from the Hells Canyon Dam trap will begin soon.
SNAKE RIVER below HELLS CANYON RESERVOIR: trout, steelhead, salmon, bass
Angling for smallmouth bass is still good and anglers are finding a few larger fish.
Spinner baits and large streamer flies seem to be the trick.
Fall Chinook season is open in Hells Canyon from the Washington state line to the
boundary below Hells Canyon Dam. Fish will be arriving soon and catch rates can be
good. Steelhead are arriving and fishing will start picking up sharply in the coming
weeks. Barbless hooks are required when fishing for salmon, steelhead and sturgeon in
Hells Canyon. Also remember a Columbia Basin Endorsement is required when fishing
for salmon, steelhead and sturgeon in the Snake River.
Most anglers will access the canyon via jet boat launched at Heller Bar or Hells
Canyon Dam. Oregon and Idaho regulations require barbless hooks in the Snake
River when fishing for salmon, steelhead or sturgeon.
Get updated information on flow levels.
SNAKE RIVER (above Brownlee Reservoir): channel catfish, flathead catfish,
smallmouth bass
Catfish on the Snake River has been good, as is bowfishing for carp. Fishing for bass
has been slow, most bass appear to be post-spawn and are trickier to catch. Bass
fishing will improve gradually over the next few weeks.
COLUMBIA FISHING
Weekend Fishing Opportunities:
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Steelhead angling is fair in the John Day Arm.
White sturgeon retention is closed but remains an option for catch-andrelease fishing.
Current Columbia River regulations for salmon, steelhead, shad and
sturgeon can be found at the Sport Fishing Regulation Update page.
SALMON, STEELHEAD AND SHAD
The salmonid creel program on the lower Columbia has ended for the year and will
resume February of 2015.
John Day Pool (Columbia River above John Day Dam and John Day Arm):
Weekly checking showed three adipose fin-clipped steelhead kept, plus 15 unclipped
steelhead released for 37 boats.
STURGEON
Catch and release only. No report.
MARINE ZONE
FISHING
Send us your fishing report
We’d love to hear about your recent fishing experience. Send us your own fishing
report through ODFW Fishing Reports -- the information will be forwarded to the
local biologist who may use it to update various ODFW resources such as the Weekly
Recreation Report.
Saltwater News Bulletins
You can subscribe to receive e-mails and text message alerts for marine topics you
are interested in. It’s easy to unsubscribe at any time. Your phone and e-mail
information will remain confidential. Six different lists of interest to ocean enthusiasts
are available: Bottomfish (recreational), Halibut (recreational), Ocean Salmon
(recreational), Ocean Salmon (commercial troll), Commercial Nearshore Groundfish,
and Marine Reserves.
Marine Reserves
Prohibitions at Oregon’s marine reserves at Cascade Head, Cape Perpetua, Redfish
Rocks and Otter Rock are in effect. Fishing, crabbing, clamming, hunting and
gathering seaweed are all prohibited. Beach walking, surfing, bird watching, diving
and other non-extractive uses continue to be allowed. See complete details and a
map of the boundaries of the reserves:
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Otter Rock Marine Reserve
Redfish Rocks Marine Reserve and Marine Protected Area
Cape Perpetua Marine Reserve and Marine Protected Area
Cascade Head Marine Reserve and Marine Protected Area
PACIFIC HALIBUT
The 2014 Pacific halibut seasons have all closed for the remainder of the year. The
International Pacific Halibut Commission (IPHC) will set 2015 quotas for all areas in late
January 2015. More information on the 2015 seasons will be available after that time.
BOTTOM FISHING
The ocean is open to bottom fishing at all depths.
Rough conditions continued to keep anglers off the ocean last week and may do
the same for this one, but anglers don’t despair: bottom fishing in winter can be
very productive. Anglers out of Depoe Bay did well catching lingcod, yellowtail
rockfish and blue rockfish on Saturday
The sport cabezon season remains open because there is quota remaining and will
likely continue through Dec. 31.
The marine fish daily bag limit is seven fish, only one of which may be a cabezon
while cabezon is open. There are separate daily limits for lingcod (two) and flatfish
other than Pacific halibut (25).
Remember: yelloweye rockfish and canary rockfish may not be retained.
The Stonewall Bank Yelloweye Rockfish Conservation Area, approximately 15 miles
west of Newport, is closed to the take of rockfish, lingcod, flatfish and other species
in the groundfish group. The waypoints are the same as in previous years but were
misprinted on page 105 of the 2014 Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations book.
The correct coordinates are:
ID
1
2
3
4
5
Latitude
44o 37.46'
44o 37.46'
44o 28.71'
44o 28.71'
44o 31.42'
Longitude
124o 24.92'
124o 23.63'
124o 21.80'
124o 24.10'
124o 25.47'
SHELLFISH
Razor clams
This year’s Clatsop beaches stock assessment survey found the highest number of
razor clams since ODFW began conducting the surveys in 2004. About 16 million
razor clams inhabit the 18-mile stretch of beach located between the Columbia River
south jetty and Tillamook Head. This estimate of clam abundance is significantly
greater than the previous peak of 9 million clams in 2005. The average size of clams
was a little over 2 ½ inches, and only a few larger than 4-inches were found. Razor
clams were distributed fairly evenly along the entire stretch of beach.
Due to the large number of small razor clams on the beach, diggers should be highly
selective about which shows they pursue. Harvesters are reminded they must retain
the first 15 clams regardless of size or condition.
During the fall and winter months, low tide series are in the evening so harvesters
should plan ahead. Razor clam harvesters should pay close attention to the surf
forecasts and be on the beach one to two hours before low tide. If the forecast
calls for combined seas over 8 or 10 feet, razor clamming can be very difficult
because the clams tend to show much less in those conditions.
Bay Clams
Low tides are now in the evenings. Low tides as high as +1.0 to +2.0 feet can still
allow clamming opportunities, especially for purple varnish clams that can sometimes
be found when the tide is as high as +4.0 feet. Sport clammers should be able to
collect daily limits of cockles, gaper clams and butter clams from the popular sites in
Tillamook Bay, Netarts Bay, Siletz Bay, Yaquina Bay, Alsea Bay, Coos Bay and
several other locations along the coast.
Recreational shellfish safety status, as of Oct. 28:
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Razor clams remain closed from the Oregon/California border north to
Heceta Head (north of Florence) due to elevated levels of domoic acid.
The closure includes razor clams on all beaches, rocks, jetties, and at the
entrance to bays in this section of the Oregon Coast. Opportunities to collect
razor clams are still available along Oregon beaches north of Heceta Head.
Mussels are open along the entire Oregon coast.
Due to potential biotoxins, consuming whole scallops is not recommended.
However, a scallop’s adductor muscle does not accumulate biotoxins and
may be safe for consumption. Scallops are not being sampled for biotoxins
at this time.
The Oregon Department of Agriculture's shellfish safety hotline is toll free and
provides the most current information regarding shellfish safety closures. Please
call the hotline before harvesting: 1-800-448-2474. Press 1 for biotoxin
closures and 2 for general safety recommendations.
For more information, call ODA’s Food Safety Program at (503) 986-4720 or visit the
ODA shellfish closures web page.
Check out the recreational shellfish pages on the ODFW website. The pages contain
everything you need to know for identifying and harvesting Oregon’s clams, including
maps of individual estuaries that show where to crab and clam.
Crabs
Recreational crabbing in the ocean is closed through Nov. 30. Bay crabbing remains
open year-round; and, in fact, the best months for bay crabbing in Oregon are
August through November! Check out the monthly crabbing report for data by port.
Crabbing is fun, but sometimes the cost, weight, and waiting can be a lot of work.
Next time try a lightweight (and affordable) folding crab trap (e.g., a Crab Max or
CrabHawk). Most commonly attached to a sturdy fishing rod or lightweight line,
these traps are perfect for dock or shore crabbing. Just zip-tie a chicken leg for bait,
cast or drop your line, and wait for a “tug.” With these traps, crabbers often check
them every 5 minutes! Popular places to use lightweight folding traps are the mouth
of Siletz Bay or Alsea Bay, and any public fishing pier.
Some sport crabbers have difficulty correctly measuring the minimum size for
Dungeness crab, which is 5 3⁄4 inches measured in a straight line across the back
immediately in front of, but not including, the points.
See an illustration showing the correct measurement (jpg).
MARINE VIEWING
Sea Turtles
Although several species of sea turtles occur in the ocean off the Pacific Northwest
coast, they typically are not found on our beaches unless they are seriously sick or
injured. Strandings that do occur in Oregon are often seen in late fall and early
winter when ocean conditions are transitioning, possibly trapping turtles in colder
waters, where they may become hypothermic.
Stranded sea turtles (and marine mammals) should be reported to the Oregon State
Police Wildlife Division at 1-800-452-7888.
A trained response team will evaluate stranded turtles and transport them to an
authorized rehabilitation facility, such as the Oregon Coast Aquarium, for appropriate
treatment and, hopefully, release in warmer waters after recovery.
More information on this and other wildlife topics is available from the US Fish &
Wildlife Service.
Seabirds
The Oregon Coast National Wildlife Refuge Complex reported rare sightings of two
tropical Brown Boobies in Newport over the weekend. Surf Scoters, regular winter
visitors to Oregon, are returning in large numbers from their summer range in northern
Canada and Alaska. Nicknamed “skunk-headed coots”, Surf Scoters are large, velvety
black ducks with white patches on their heads and faces and colorful beaks.
Great places to view seabirds and perhaps a bald eagle are: Yaquina Head
Outstanding Natural Area (the deck behind the lighthouse), Heceta Head State
Park (the viewing area in front of the lighthouse), Cape Meares State Scenic
Viewpoint (the north deck by the parking lot), and Ecola State Park (the
westernmost viewing platform at Ecola Point overlook).
Wildlife Viewing Map
Get more coastal viewing ideas from the ODFW wildlife viewing map. For example,
at Cape Blanco, trails lead to the beach and viewpoints where abundant seabirds
like loons, grebes and scoters can be seen in winter; and marbled murrelets,
rhinoceros auklets and raptors are around all year.
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