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WELCOME TO THE ODFW RECREATION REPORT
FISHING, HUNTING, WILDLIFE VIEWING
Dec. 23, 2014
2015 hunting and fishing licenses now available
Buy them at an ODFW office, a license sales agent or online.
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.
Oregon hunting and shooting map goes mobile
Just click on the interactive www.oregonhuntingmap.com from your mobile device
and the new responsive design immediately delivers content optimized for your
phone or tablet. The map has all the functionally that made it popular-- the ability to
search hunting areas by species and location land ownership, property boundaries
and much more.
Winter steelhead season underway
Winter steelhead and winter rains have arrived together. For the best fishing, keep
an eye on the weather and water levels (and the weekly Recreation Report) and be
ready to hit the river when water levels start to fall. To help plan your trip, including
access and fishing tips, check out the 2014 Annual Fishing Guide.
Ice fishing workshop
Learn how to make the best of snowy, icy conditions at a Jan. 24, 2015 Family Ice
Fishing Workshop on Lake of the Woods near Klamath Falls.
Hunting workshops in December and January
See www.odfwcalendar.com for the full list, including a Jan. 17 pheasant hunt in
Maupin.
Black bear, turkey, upland bird seasons winding down
Fall turkey, western Oregon bear and many eastern Oregon upland bird seasons
close Dec. 31.
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.
Most rivers and streams closed to trout fishing on Oct. 31.
NORTH COAST LAKES
Trout stocking is complete for the year. The dock was replaced at Town Lake and the
lake is full. An additional 30 hatchery summer steelhead adults were released in the
lake recently.
MID COAST LAKES
The wild coho salmon fishery in Siltcoos and Tahkenitch Lakes is slow. Most fish have
migrated onto the spawning grounds. It is possible for a small number of new bright
fish to be available through season end on Dec. 31.
ALSEA RIVER: steelhead
The winter steelhead fishery should see an increase following the recent flood. As
flows drop and the river conditions come into shape, steelhead should be distributed
through the river. Boat anglers are reminded to watch for new obstructions as flood
waters often create new hazards. Fishing the upper river mid to late in the week
should provide the best results. Good numbers of fish typically start returning over
the next few weeks.
BIG CREEK, GNAT CREEK, NF KLASKANINE: steelhead
Fishing for winter steelhead should be fair to good when conditions allow. These
streams will drop and clear relatively quickly from last weekend’s rains and should be
fishable by mid-week. Increasing numbers of fish will enter the systems over the
next few weeks.
KILCHIS RIVER: steelhead
The river is high and off early in the week, but should be in fishable condition by midweek. Winter steelhead fishing will be improving as more fish arrive. Fish brighter
offerings along the current seams in the slower water until flows drop.
NECANICUM RIVER: steelhead
Winter steelhead fishing should be improving as more fish enter the system. The river
will be dropping and clearing after the recent storm, and should fish well from mid-week
on. Boaters should use caution as woody debris often shifts around in this stream.
NEHALEM RIVER AND NORTH FORK: steelhead
Winter steelhead are being caught in the north fork up to the hatchery, with fair to
good fishing reported when fishing conditions are prime. Look for the river to drop
in shape mid-week, good fishing conditions through the weekend.
NESTUCCA RIVER AND THREE RIVERS: Chinook, steelhead
Winter steelhead being caught consistently, especially in Three Rivers. Slowly fish
brighter offerings in the softer water and current breaks during the higher flows this
week. Plunking may be the best option until flows recede.
SALMON RIVER: steelhead
Winter steelhead are starting to show up in most coastal basins. Salmon River does
get a good return of wild winter steelhead and an occasional stray hatchery fish.
SILETZ RIVER: steelhead
Winter steelhead season is producing some results and should see a small bump in the
fishery following the recent flood event. Both bank and boat anglers should focus on
the mid to upper river later in the week as flows and river conditions improve. Anglers
are advised to watch for new obstructions / hazards produced from the recent high
flows.
SIUSLAW RIVER: steelhead
The winter steelhead fishery should produce some action later in the week as the river
flows come down and conditions improve. Prior to the flood, steelhead were starting to
show up in small numbers around the mid to lower sections of the Siuslaw and Lake
Creek. Look to fish higher in the system and along the banks near tributaries that clear
up more quickly. Plunking can be productive during higher muddy flows.
TILLAMOOK BAY: Chinook, sturgeon
Fishing for fall Chinook is slowing down. Some fish will continue to available through
the end of the month. Trolling herring or spinners near the bottom is the standard
technique. Catch-and-release fishing for sturgeon should be good with the high
flows. Fish the channel edges on the outgoing tides and move often until you find
fish. Sand shrimp on the bottom is a good bet.
TRASK RIVER: steelhead
Winter steelhead fishing is improving as more fish arrive. A few fish are spread
through the system. Fishing conditions are tough with the high waters, but
conditions should be good by the weekend. Boaters should be on the lookout for
new hazards after the flood.
WILSON RIVER: steelhead
Winter steelhead are available in increasing numbers. Fishing should be decent
when flows drop this week. Look for a few fish to be spread out throughout the
river. Boaters should use caution after recent floods.
YAQUINA RIVER: steelhead, Chinook
The winter steelhead run is starting to kick in with anglers getting into a few fish
along the Big Elk as conditions allow. The fall Chinook fishery is essentially over for
the season as most fish have already spawned. Some coho salmon are still moving
through the system but anglers are reminded that the wild coho fishery ended on
Nov 30.
NORTH COAST HUNTING
OPEN: COUGAR, BLACK BEAR (closes Dec. 31), GROUSE, QUAIL, WATERFOWL
(see regs)
Hunters are reminded to purchase their 2015 hunting license if they will
continue to hunt into 2015.
Use the Oregon Hunting Map to see where to hunt.
See the bird and big game hunting forecasts.
Duck season goes through Jan. 25, 2015 (see regs for season break dates and
details). The overall liberal bag limit with some species restrictions, continue this
season. See the 2014-15 Oregon Game Bird Regulations for details. More
migratory ducks are present now than earlier, 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 hibernation by now, and opportunity to find a bear in
the forest will be limited. The season closes Dec. 31.
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
The Christmas/New Year’s holiday break is a great time to view migrating gray
whales working their way south from the Arctic down to the warmer waters of Baja.
There are numerous “Whale Watching Spoke Here” locations where volunteers with
optics will be available (weather permitting, of course) to help viewers find the
whales www.oregonstateparks.org/index.cfm?do=thingstodo.dsp_whaleWatching
Great viewpoints, with or without WWSH volunteers, for the north coast include Cape
Kiwanda, Cape Lookout, Cape Meares, Neah-Kah-Nie Mtn., Cape Falcon and Silver
Point.
Migratory waterfowl have been moving into the north throughout the fall, and a wide
variety of ducks and geese are now available for viewing in and around north coast
estuaries, including the lower Columbia River.
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 excellent at Jewell Meadows Wildlife Area. Elk have been visible
throughout the day on the Fishhawk Tract. Best viewing times are from about 9:00
AM to Noon. There have also been elk visible on the Beneke Tract. Brochures with
maps of the area are available at the main viewing area along Hwy 202. Elk are
currently being fed a supplemental diet of alfalfa hay. Staff try to feed close to the
viewing areas especially on weekends to enhance viewing opportunities.
Reservations for the winter elk feeding tours have been completely filled for the
three month season. Please remember that areas posted as wildlife refuge are closed
to public access and areas along Beneke Creek posted closed to entry during any
Saddle Mountain elk season are also closed during those hunting seasons.
Wildlife Area Parking Permits are now required on the wildlife area (as of Jan. 1,
2014) including during the elk feeding tours.
The Twilight Eagle Sanctuary located just off of Hwy 30, east of Astoria, is a great
place to view waterfowl and other water birds that frequent the lower Columbia
River in the winter months. An ADA accessible viewing platform allows for
sweeping views of Wolf Bay and surrounding areas, especially if you have a
spotting scope. Often times, tundra swans can be seen from the platform out on
the Columbia River.
FISHING
Weekend fishing opportunities
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Look for steelhead fishing in area rivers to improve once high, muddy flows
begin to subside.
When rivers are blown out, anglers may want to try fishing for some good-sized
carry over trout in Garrison Lake.
December can be an excellent month for steelhead fishing in the lower Rogue
River, as there is little fishing pressure and good numbers of steelhead.
If your favorite fishing spot is no longer listed
It’s probably because that river, lake or reservoir is closed for the season,
inaccessible due to snow and bad roads, or offers limited fishing opportunities during
the winter months. These water bodies will re-appear in the Recreation Report when
they re-open next spring, or when access and/or opportunity improves.
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 21 percent full and the boat ramp is no longer usable. 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 15 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 4,000 trout in the spring. An additional 1,000 trout
were stocked the first week of September. Warmwater fishing for bass and crappie is
winding down with the cooler water temperatures.
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.
Good river flows have moved most Chinook upstream of Nook Creek and into
spawning tributaries. This time of year anglers start side drifting eggs or plunking
spin and glows to pick up steelhead. Look for steelhead numbers to really pick
upthrough December.
Before anglers head out to fish, check the flows and fish the river as it is dropping.
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 RIVER BASIN: Dungeness crab, bay clams, steelhead
All the steelhead rivers have been running high and muddy due to the large amount
of rain we received over the weekend. The West Fork Millicoma River, which typically
clears first, may be fishable before the upcoming weekend. There are a few
steelhead in the West Fork Millicoma, East Fork Millicoma, and South Fork Coos
rivers.
There is bank access on the West Fork Millicoma at the Millicoma Interpretive Center
and on the East Fork Millicoma at Nesika Park. Access to the South Fork Coos River is
through Weyerhaeuser property and anglers must have the appropriate permit from
Weyerhaeuser. In the Coos Basin starting on Dec. 1 one additional fin clipped
steelhead may be retained per day for a total aggregate of 3 adult fish harvested daily.
Due to the heavy rains over the weekend the crabbing in Coos Bay is very slow this
week. Crabbing should pick up again once the majority of the freshwater is flushed
out of the bay.
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. Before any shellfish harvest trip, make sure to check the Oregon
Department of Agriculture website for any updates.
COQUILLE RIVER BASIN: steelhead
All the steelhead rivers have been running very high and muddy because of the
recent heavy rains. The North Fork Coquille River should be the first river to become
fishable. There are a few steelhead in all the forks of the Coquille. In the Coquille
Basin starting on Dec. 1 one additional fin-clipped steelhead may be retained per day
for a total aggregate of 3 adult fish harvested daily.
DIAMOND LAKE: trout
Fishing pressure is low on Diamond Lake. Snowfall is beginning to close the road
around the lake. A 17 inch fish was caught using bait this past week. Temperatures
are dropping, but the lake is not yet frozen over.
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
Frequent storms are keeping the river flows and water color in near perfect condition.
Chinook salmon are spread throughout the river, with a few steelhead moving in
daily. 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 19 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 stocked with 100 one-pound and 500 legal-sized trout in October.
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.
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. Some adult hatchery coho were recently placed in the
reservoir, but they were getting dark.
Galesville was stocked with about 8,000 trout this spring. 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 541-837-3302 for
information on camping and boat launching conditions.
GARRISON LAKE: rainbow trout, cutthroat
When rivers are blown out, anglers may want to try fishing for some good sized carry
over trout. This time of year trout are usually feeding along deeper weed lines. 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. 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 541-4963532 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 stocked with 1,200 one-pound rainbows in October 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. The reservoir is drawn down. 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
The Oregon Health Authority has issued a health advisory for Lost Creek Reservoir due
to high levels of blue green algae. Visit the OHA website for more information.
Lost Creek Reservoir was stocked with rainbow trout in October. The surface
temperature was 48F 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. Good reports came from anglers trolling flashers and worms and flashers
and wedding rings last weekend. Bank anglers also caught fish near the Takelma boat
ramp. Lost Creek Reservoir is 46 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,
The ocean is now open again for harvest of Dungeness crab. 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.
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 stocked with 100 one-pound and 250 legal-sized trout in
October. Fishing should be good.
ROGUE RIVER
Rogue River, lower: winter steelhead
Anglers are picking up a few winter steelhead plunking spin-n-glows. Anglers will
want to keep an eye on river flows and try to fish as the river is dropping. December
can be an excellent month for steelhead fishing in the lower river, as there is little
fishing pressure and good numbers of steelhead.
Rogue River, middle: steelhead, trout
The river is blown out; the flow at Grants Pass was 12,700 cfs on Monday morning.
With more rain forecast Wednesday, it is unlikely the river will be fishable until late in
the weekend or next week. 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.
The river is blown out; however, it is fishable from the confluence of Big Butte Creek
upstream to hatchery deadline. With more rain forecast Wednesday, it is unlikely the
river will be fishable until late in the weekend or next week. The release from Lost
Creek Reservoir was 4545 cfs and the water temperature was 46F the morning of
Dec 22. The water temperature at Gold Ray was averaging about 46F. As of Dec 16,
2,767 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 spread throughout the river, but few new fish are moving in. Anglers are
reporting picking up a few steelhead.
SMITH RIVER, Umpqua: steelhead, sturgeon, striped bass
Winter steelhead will start arriving in the Smith River basin. Most of the steelhead
will be wild, therefore fishing will be primarily catch-and-release.
SODA SPRINGS RESERVOIR:
Closed to fishing.
TENMILE BASIN: coho salmon, steelhead
The wild coho season open in Tenmile Lakes until Dec. 31. 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.
A couple steelhead are making their way into Tenmile Creek already. This is the very
start of the steelhead run on Tenmile Creek. Eel Creek does not open for steelhead
fishing until Jan. 1. In the Tenmile Basin starting on Dec. 1 one additional fin-clipped
steelhead may be retained per day for a total aggregate of 3 adult fish harvested
daily.
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
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 mainstem Umpqua is closed to wild steelhead harvest, but remains open yearround 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 number of steelhead will increase in the Main throughout the rest of the
month and early January. Plunkers should have some success following this most
recent rain.
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, 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. Fishing for winter steelhead will continue to
improve, peaking in February through March. Most of the fish returning to the North
are wild so the fishing is mostly catch-and-release.
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: steelhead
The South Umpqua opened for steelhead beginning Dec. 1, 2014. Although the peak
numbers of fish normally show up from February to late March, the recent rains have
moved fish into the Canyonville area and hatchery fish have been reported. The
South Umpqua offers the best chance for catching an adipose-fin clipped steelhead
for harvest. The hatchery program for winter steelhead is centered in the South
Umpqua. Most hatchery fish are caught from Canyonville downstream. All wild fish
must be released unharmed.
WILLOW LAKE: rainbow trout, largemouth bass, black crappie, brown bullhead
At 51 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
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: GROUSE, QUAIL, TURKEY, COUGAR, BLACK BEAR (closes Dec. 31),
WATERFOWL (see regs)
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 continue,
be sure to check regs for details. 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. Presently sea duck numbers are good in the lower portions of Coos
County bays.
Wilson’s snipe abundance is increasing with the coming of winter. Wilson’s snipe
could be considered the woodcock of the west because they are very similar to
woodcock in appearance. Presently snipe can be found in huntable numbers
around wetlands, flooded agricultural fields and in some clear cuts. Any place
where water ponds there will be habitat for these birds and the potential to find
them. Snipe feed on worms and other invertebrates that are found just under the
soil’s surface. When soil is moistened by precipitation these birds are able to poke
their flexible bill in to the soil to catch their food. While they like open fields and
wetlands they can be found in reforested clear cuts where water ponds, as well.
Elk – controlled hunts only at this time. 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. Season closes Dec. 31.
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
Elk - Only a few controlled hunts are open at this time. Elk populations are similar to
last year so this hunting year will be average.
Cougar Cougar season is open. Hunting cougar is most successful adjacent to
private land with high deer populations.
Bear – General bear season is open. The hunt year ends December 31, 2014.
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. The season ends on January 31, 2015.
Fall Turkey –The season ends December 31, 2014.
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.The season ends on
January 31, 2015.
WATERFOWL: Duck and goose hunting ends 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:
Bobcat & Gray Fox – Currently open. Healthy populations throughout Western
Oregon. The last day of the season for these species is February 28, 2015.
River Otter, Beaver, Raccoon & Red Fox – Currently open. Healthy populations
throughout Western Oregon. The last day of the season for these species is March
15, 2015 except red fox which is January 15, 2015.
Mink & Muskrat – Currently open. Healthy populations throughout Western
Oregon. The last day of the season for mink and muskrat is March 31, 2015.
Marten – Currently open. Good populations at higher elevations of the Cascades.
The last day of the season is January 31, 2015.
JACKSON, JOSEPHINE, CURRY COUNTIES
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. The season is winding down as bears
become scarcer because it’s their time to hibernate for the year. 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).
Deer season youth control tags starts December 15 thru January 5, 2015 in the Rogue
(630T), Evans Creek (629T) and Applegate (628T) Units. Deer are at low elevations,
and BLM lands provide good access to these animals. Deer numbers and buck ratios
are strong and the season will be average. Although with the lack of snow it can create
a challenge. A reminder, youth are required to wear orange while hunting.
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.
Crows – Season is open until January 31 2013. No limit on harvest. It is critical to
distinguish between crows and ravens. Crows are smaller in size (17.5 inches) with
smaller beaks with fan shape tail in flight and they make a caw sound. Whereas
ravens are larger (24 inches) with long heavy bills, wedge shaped tail, with a low,
drawn-out croak call and are protected.
Grouse and Quail - Season will end January 31, 2015. 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 - 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 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. Bobcat season opens December 1, and the population is strong.
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
Shore birds found along the coast now are here for winter. In places fairly large
numbers can be seen. 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. Recently large flocks of shore birds have been seen on
the Coos Bay North Spit beaches and other beaches in the area.
Waterfowl
While waterfowl numbers are quite high in Coos County right now they may be
somewhat challenging to find. Due to recent rain agricultural lands inland of the
coast are inundated with water. This has caused waterfowl to scatter inland from the
coast. Generally few birds are in Coos County bays, instead these birds are in Winter
Lake and other inland locations.
That said, there are good numbers of sea ducks in the bays presently. Sea ducks will
not scatter inland as fresh water inundation occurs. Good places to see sea ducks are
the Charleston area of Coos Bay and the Bandon area of the Coquille Bay. 12/9/14.
CURRY, JACKSON, JOSEPHINE COUNTIES
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. They are often known as Ringtail or Miner’s cat, but they are not a cat, they
are in the raccoon family.
Denman Wildlife Area
Hunting season on the Denman Wildlife Area will continue 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.
Lewis’s woodpecker
Lewis woodpeckers are seen in our area collecting acorns and stuffing them into
holes in trees. In addition, they eat insects found on surfaces of trees and will catch
them out of the air. They are the size of an American robin with a greenish-black
head and back, with a gray neck and breast. Most distinguishing is the dark red face
and pinkish belly. Look for them in open woodlands.
DOUGLAS COUNTY
Winter Raptors
Wintering raptors, especially red-tail hawks, are commonly be seen along highways
throughout the county.
Bald Eagles
Bald Eagles are now commonly seen along the mainstem portion of the Umpqua
River from Roseburg to Reedsport.
Songbirds
Winter songbirds including Western Bluebirds can be seen at Stewart Park and
Stewart Park trail in Roseburg. Viewing is best in the late morning to early
afternoon. 12/23/14.
FISHING
Weekend fishing opportunities:
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•
Extra-large rainbow trout brook trout were released this week into Walling
Pond and Walter Wirth Lake. These fish weigh in at 7-15 pounds apiece.
Brood trout were also released the past several weeks at Junction City Pond,
St. Louis Ponds, Huddleston Pond, Sheridan Pond, Mt. Hood Pond, Canby
Pond, Timber Linn Lake, and Waverly Lake.
Winter steelhead are starting to show up in the Clackamas and Sandy rivers,
where fishing conditions are nearing ideal. It’s early for these fish but flows
and color are good for those willing to get out and brave the cold weather.
If your favorite fishing spot is no longer listed
It’s probably because that river, lake or reservoir is closed for the season,
inaccessible due to snow and bad roads, or offers limited fishing opportunities during
the winter months. These water bodies will re-appear in the Recreation Report when
they re-open next spring, or when access and/or opportunity improves.
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 last stocked for the season in early November.
Stocking 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: winter steelhead
The turbid flood conditions on the Clackamas should slowly subside by the weekend
leaving anglers with pretty good fishing conditions after Christmas Day. So think
about breaking out that new gear you got from Santa and hitting the river. It’s still a
bit early for the peak of the winter steelhead run but fish were in the river before the
rains and surely more were brought in by the higher flows.
Good bank access for winters can be found in many locations along the river from
Gladstone, Cross Park, Riverside Park, along Clackamas River Road, Carver, Barton,
and McIver Parks. If you’ve got a boat you can put in at Riverside Park, Carver Park,
Barton Park, Feldheimer’s off Springwater Road, and at both lower and upper McIver
Park ramps. Boaters should watch for floating debris as fallen trees and limbs come
downstream.
Monday, Dec. 22 hydrological data shows river flows dropping from flood stage at
17,700 cfs, a gauge reading of 18.60 ft., and the water temperature at 45°. All of the
readings come from the Estacada gauge near McIver Park.
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
To access Cottage Grove Pond, travel east from Cottage Grove on Row River Road.
The 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 fishing 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. Over 12,000 legalsize trout were stocked during Sept.-Oct., and further stocking will resume come
spring. Currently the reservoir is about 87 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.
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: winter steelhead
The heavy rainfall over the weekend left the creek high and muddy on Monday but
those who fish here regularly know that Eagle Creek cleans up faster than most
other waters in the area. With little significant precipitation in the forecast the
creek should be ready to fish by Tuesday or Wednesday of this week. It might be
a bit high and fast but the color should be ideal.
The Eagle Creek winter steelhead stock is a later returning fish from what anglers
may remember several years ago so it’s a bit early to see any winters coming
back in big numbers yet. As well, the reduced smolt releases in recent years have
had an impact on numbers of adult steelhead returning. Reports indicate that a
few winters are in the creek and the hatchery has had a handful of fish already
swim into the holding pond.
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
Closed to trout fishing until May 23, 2015. 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 until then 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. Flowing water above
the dam is closed to fishing. Fall Creek and Reservoir are northeast of Lowell.
FARADAY LAKE: trout
Stocked in October with 3,800 legal- and larger-sized rainbow trout. This is a 25acre 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 15 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 been quite low
over the last few weeks but has rebounded with the latest rain event and now
stands at approximately 10 feet below full pool. With this development, all boat
ramps are currently usable.
This popular fishing destination has received 10,000 legal rainbow trout this fall.
Further trout stocking is scheduled to resume around mid-March, 2015. 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 has dropped to approximately 67 ft. below full pool – only Thistle
Creek low-water boat ramp is currently available. Storage season begins Dec. 1 after
which the water levels will begin to rise but will remain lower than normal during the
ongoing spill gate repairs.
HENRY HAGG LAKE: trout, bass, crappie, yellow perch, bluegill and brown bullhead
Hagg Lake is closed and will re-open Saturday, March 7.
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.
HUDDLESTON POND: trout, bluegill
Stocked in November with 60 rainbow trout brood trout, weighing from 7 to 15
pounds. Anglers are reminded that the bag limit on trout over 20 inches is one per
day. Huddleston is a 5-acre pond located within Huddleston Pond Park in the city of
Willamina, Ore. A former mill pond, it contains woody debris that provides habitat for
bass and bluegill. It reaches a maximum depth of about 10 feet, with shallow "kidfriendly" edges. It is ADA accessible in places, with a restroom and picnic areas
nearby. There is paved parking lot and small ramp for people who want to launch
small, non-motorized boats.
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 was stocked last week with 350 “pounders”
averaging about 14 inches. There may also be a few large brood trout and steelhead
around from previous stockings. Normal scheduled stocking will resume during the
first week in January when 2,750 trout of various sizes are due to arrive. As a
reminder, zone regulations apply: five trout daily may be kept and only one over 20inches.
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.
A 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.
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.
MOLALLA RIVER: coho, winter steelhead
The Molalla is running high and muddy but should be fishable by late in the week.
Winter steelhead passage at Willamette Falls is just getting started but a few
winters will likely be found in the Molalla and that number should improve in the
coming weeks.
MT HOOD POND: trout, crappie, bluegill
Stocked Dec. 15 with 95 extra-large rainbow brood 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
This fishery is closed until May 23, 2015.
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 closed until April 25, 2015.
SALMON CREEK: trout
Salmon Creek is a tributary to the Middle Fork Willamette River east of Oakridge
and 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 and is
currently open to catch-and-release angling only while using flies or lures.
SANDY RIVER: winter steelhead
The Sandy came up like most rivers from the weekend rain, but not as bad as
originally predicted. Although it’s fairly high and muddy, things should improve late
this week. There’s no big storm in the forecast and lowering snow levels will help to
get the river in shape.
There have been some confirmed reports of winter steelhead landed on the Sandy
but the overall numbers of fish have yet to arrive. The Sandy River winter steelhead
are a later returning fish in recent years due to the broodstock fishery management
program. This fishery doesn’t usually get cranked up until after the first of the year,
but there should be a few early returners looking to get hooked.
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 footwear, and walking sticks are always a good idea, especially during periods
of higher flows we can expect over the next several months.
Hydrological data for the Sandy River on Dec. 22 shows flows on the drop at 14,700
cfs, a gauge reading of 14.40 ft. and the water temperature holding at 45°.
SANTIAM RIVER (NORTH FORK): steelhead, Chinook
Fish can be found throughout the river, but are more concentrated in the upper
sections (Mehama to Packsaddle). Counts at Willamette Falls as of Dec. 21 show
around 22,900 summer steelhead and over 21,400 coho had entered the upper
basin. Of those, around 4,263 steelhead and 1,009 coho made it above Stayton on
the North Santiam through Nov. 30.
The coho salmon run has slowed to a crawl and most fish are going to be pretty dark
by mid-December. The next fish to arrive will be winter steelhead. So far
approximately 245 have passed above Willamette Falls as of Dec. 21, but those
numbers will start to rise over the next few weeks and months. Summer steelhead
are still available to the hardy angler, primarily above 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 16,900 cfs following the huge rain event over the weekend). 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: 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 3,150 cfs as of Dec. 15. Summer
steelhead can be found primarily in the upper river. Below Lebanon, however, there
are still a few fresh 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
Stocked in November with 60 rainbow trout nbrood trout ranging from 7 to 15
pounds apiece. 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
This fishery is closed until May 23, 2015.
ST. LOUIS PONDS: trout, bass, crappie, bluegill, yellow perch, channel catfish
Stocked in November with 90 brood trout weighing 10-plus pounds each. 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.
TIMBER LINN POND: rainbow trout
This beautiful, family-friendly fishing pond is located within the 90-acre Timber-Linn
Memorial Park in Albany. It will be stocked this week with 80 brood rainbow trout
between 5-15 lbs each. Please keep in mind that only one fish over 20 inches may be
taken per day. Timber-Linn Lake can be reached by turning east off I-5 onto the
Santiam Highway (Hwy. 20), then immediately turning north onto Price Road and
proceeding to the park entrance
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 mph 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
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
Another batch of brood trout has become available and 50 were released in the pond
on Monday, Dec. 22. These very large 8 to 12-pound rainbow trout were stocked last
week, in addition to 400 legal and 50 larger size trout.
As a reminder, zone regulations apply: five trout daily may be kept and only one
may be over 20 inches. This is an 8-acre privately owned pond located in Salem at
the northeast corner of McGilchrist and 16th Streets, S.E.
WALTER WIRTH LAKE: trout, crappie, bass
Another batch of brood trout has become available and 50 were released in the lake
on Monday, Dec. 22. As a reminder, only one fish over 20-inches may be kept.
Walter Wirth is a 20-acre lake located within the City of Salem’s Cascades Gateway
Park.
WAVERLY POND: trout, bluegill, catfish
Waverly Pond is located in Albany and is regularly stocked in fall, winter and spring.
It will be stocked this week with 80 extra-large brood rainbow trout averaging
between 5-15 pounds each. Please keep in mind that only one fish over 20-inches
may be taken per day. From I-5 take exit 234 west towards Albany. The pond is
located a quarter mile down Pacific Boulevard on the right. A paved ADAaccessible 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, coho, winter steelhead
For anglers interested in sturgeon fishing, the “catch-and-release” sturgeon fishery
has been very good with the St. Johns area and Milwaukie putting out fish. The
turbid water conditions have little negative impact on the sturgeon fishery;
however boaters should pay careful attention for debris coming downstream.
Some of the larger chunks of wood and trees can do significant damage to a boat
or motor.
Passage numbers at Willamette Falls are really winding down for coho, as
expected for late December, with just 16 fish passing during the month. Counts
are just getting started for winter steelhead, with 245 crossings through Dec. 21.
Look for the steelhead passage numbers to improve once the water drops and
clears a bit.
Hydrological numbers for the Willamette on December 22 show flows well up at
87,900 cfs, a water temperature in Oregon City of 50°, and visibility poor at less
than 1.0 ft.
WILLAMETTE ZONE HUNTING
OPEN: COUGAR, BLACK BEAR (closes Dec. 31), 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 and sign up now for upcoming Learn to Hunt events. The
Introduction to Hunting in Oregon series will include several classes and focus on
opportunities within a 50-mile-radius of Portland. Sign up for one class or all:
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Getting Started Hunting in the Portland Area, Jan. 3, Cabela’s Tualatin, 2 – 4
p.m.
Navigating the Controlled Hunt Process, Jan. 10, Cabela’s Tualatin, 2 – 4 p.m.
Finding and Evaluating Places to Hunt, Jan. 17, Cabela’s Tualatin, 2 - 5 p.m.
Gearing Up for Big Game Hunting, Jan. 24, Cabela’s Tualatin, 2 – 4 p.m.
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. Mountain
quail can be found 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.
California quail are typically located in lower elevation agricultural fields and clear
cuts that provide both cover and food sources. Please respect private landowners
and ask for permission before entering their lands to hunt. 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. Hunters are reporting good
numbers of Blue and Ruffed grouse in the Mt. Hood National Forest. 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 are open; see regs for specific dates. Duck hunters did well during
the recent cold weather period but success has slowed since then. While birds continue
to move into ponds, lakes, sloughs and fields to feed in the early morning hours, some
hunters are reporting better success in the afternoon. Cold and stormy weather is
needed to move new birds into the area.
Goose hunting reopened for the second period in both the Northwest General Zone and
Northwest Permit Zone on November 15 and will close on January 10, 2015. Reports
suggest average hunting conditions and success this season. 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
Late season Archery Deer is now closed.
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 has dropped significantly and few bears are
being checked in at ODFW offices. 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 northern Willamette Valley 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.
FURBEARER trapping and hunting season for bobcat opened Dec. 1. Gray fox, red
fox, muskrat, mink, raccoon and river otter are currently open. Trappers and hunters
are reminded that all bobcat and river otter pelts need to be checked-in at an ODFW
office within five (5) business days after the season ends to obtain an ownership tag.
The lower jawbone, including both canine teeth, must be surrendered to ODFW
and information on sex, date of catch, and county of harvest must accompany each
individual bobcat or river otter to qualify for an ownership tag. A record card with
required species, sex, date of possession and county must be presented to obtain an
ownership tag. See page 5 of the Oregon Furbearer Trapping and Hunting
Regulations (July 1, 2014 through June 30, 2016).
Trappers are reminded that waters within the exterior boundaries of the Mt. Hood
National Forest are closed to beaver trapping (see page 4 of the Oregon Furbearer
Trapping and Hunting Regulations).
Fern Ridge Wildlife Area
Access regulations for five units at Fern Ridge Wildlife Area change concurrent with
hunt season dates. Visitors are advised to carefully read posted signs and consult
game bird regulations before entering the wildlife area. The Fisher Butte and Royal
Amazon units are open to hunting 7-days/week during duck season with hunting
ending at 1:00 PM each day. These units are closed to all public use at 2:00 PM each
day to provide wildlife sanctuary. Trails to and from designated viewing platforms
remain open year- round. The Kirk Park unit remains open to public use daily yearround, however during duck season, hunting is only authorized on Saturdays,
Sundays, Wednesdays, and holidays. Free daily hunt permits are required for
hunting in these five units. The permits are available on-site at area parking lots.
All other units at Fern Ridge lake and wildlife area are open to hunting daily
according to authorized seasons and posted access restrictions (for example hunting
is not allowed in designated park areas or administrative areas near Fern Ridge
dam).
Hunters are reminded that the entire Fern Ridge area is closed to goose hunting
during the general season and NW Oregon Goose Permit Zone hunts.
All hunters should pack out all litter, including spent shotgun shell casings. We
appreciate your effort to keep the area clean and presentable for all visitors.
Parking areas are located along Royal Avenue, Highway 126, Nielson Road, Cantrell
Road, Territorial Highway, and Clear Lake Road. A state Wildlife Area Parking Permit
is now required to park in any ODFW parking lot. Visitors are cautioned that there
have been recent vehicle break-ins at area parking lots. Please secure your valuables
before leaving your vehicle unattended. Contact the wildlife area headquarters, (541)
935-2591 if you have any questions.
WILLAMETTE ZONE VIEWING
Be on the lookout for birds of prey
Look for birds of prey on your next road trip. When the weather turns foggy, several
raptors including eagles, hawks and falcons leave the tops of trees and look closer to
the ground for their next meal. They can be easily seen along highways as they
perch on the tops of road signs and power lines watching for mice and other rodents
in ditches and empty fields.
Fern Ridge Wildlife Area
Access regulations for five units at Fern Ridge Wildlife Area change concurrent with
hunt season dates. Visitors are advised to carefully read posted signs and consult
game bird regulations before entering the wildlife area. The Fisher Butte and Royal
Amazon units are open to hunting seven days/week during duck season with hunting
ending at 1 p.m. each day. These units are closed to all public use at 2 p.m. each
day to provide wildlife sanctuary.
Trails to and from designated viewing platforms remain open year-round. The Kirk
Park unit remains open to public use daily year-round, however during duck season,
hunting is only authorized on Saturdays, Sundays, Wednesdays, and holidays.
Parking areas are located along Royal Avenue, Highway 126, Nielson Road, Cantrell
Road, Territorial Highway, and Clear Lake Road. A state Wildlife Area Parking Permit
is now required to park in any ODFW parking lot. Visitors are cautioned that there
have been recent vehicle break-ins at area parking lots. Please secure your valuables
before leaving your vehicle unattended. Contact the wildlife area headquarters, (541)
935-2591 if you have any questions.
Eugene Area
Delta Ponds
There are many different types of waterfowl and raptors currently using the area.
With the higher water and earlier dusk, now is a good time to see beaver and
muskrat. Best viewing times are around 4:30 p.m.
When viewing wildlife, please remember to be respectful and try not to disturb the
animals’ natural behaviors. Sometimes, the best way to view animals is from inside
your vehicle as to not frighten the birds/animals away.
More information on the Delta Ponds
Forest Grove Area
Fernhill Wetlands
Fernhill Wetlands is 243 acres of wetland and moist soil habitats. From November
through March, thousands of waterfowl can be seen daily. Currently, the resident
American bald eagles can be seen in the tops of cottonwoods.
Portland Area
Smith and Bybee Lakes Wildlife Area
The Smith and Bybee Lakes Wildlife Area is one of the nation's largest urban
freshwater wetlands. Located near the confluence of the Columbia and Willamette
Rivers, the lakes function as a flood absorption system for the lower Columbia River.
Hidden within an industrial area and just minutes from downtown Portland, the
wetlands provide for diverse communities of plant and animal life. Numerous local
schools use Smith and Bybee Lakes for a variety of outdoor education programs.
A printable wildlife checklist
Mt. Talbert Nature Park
The nature park includes the top of the former lava dome as well as the west facing
slopes visible to the tens of thousands of people that travel I-205 every day or shop
at the Clackamas Town Center. The park offers miles of new hiking trails, information
about the cultural and natural resources found there and greater access to nature
close to home.
A series of interpretive signs along the trails provide visitors information about the
plants and animals that can be seen – and heard – at the nature park. Residents and
visitors to Mount Talbert include deer, coyotes, raccoons, Western gray squirrel,
rubber boa, pileated and hairy woodpeckers, white-breasted nuthatch, Western
tanager and many more.
The park is just east of I-205 and south of Sunnyside Road. From Southeast
Sunnybrook Boulevard turn south on 97th Avenue and follow until it becomes Mather
Road. The park entrance is on the left off of Mather Road.
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 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
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Several rivers remain open for trout fishing year-round including the
Deschutes, Metolius and parts of the Fall rivers.
Fishing has been excellent on the Crooked River, where the whitefish are
spawning and trout are keying in on the eggs.
If your favorite fishing spot is no longer listed
It’s probably because that river, lake or reservoir is closed for the season,
inaccessible due to snow and bad roads, or offers limited fishing opportunities during
the winter months. These water bodies will re-appear in the Recreation Report when
they re-open next spring, or when access and/or opportunity improves.
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. Current road conditions are unknown.
BIKINI POND: rainbow trout
No recent reports. Ice likely a problem.
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 whitefish are spawning and the trout will be
keying in on the eggs. 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
Fishing restricted to artificial flies and lures.
FALL RIVER: rainbow trout
Fall River downstream of the falls is closed to fishing. Fishing 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.
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. Ice and snow will limit access.
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 to fishing all year.
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
Anglers are doing well catching 14 to 16-inch trout.
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.
PINE HOLLOW RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, largemouth bass
No recent reports. Ice on the lake will limit access.
PRINEVILLE RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, largemouth and smallmouth bass, crappie
No recent reports.
PRINEVILLE YOUTH FISHING POND: rainbow trout and largemouth bass
The pond is currently iced over. For safety reasons, the pond is closed when iced over.
Ice fishing is not allowed.
ROCK CREEK RESERVOIR: rainbow trout
No recent reports, but irrigation withdrawals have drawn the reservoir to a low level
that will limit good fishing. Ice likely.
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.
SUTTLE LAKE: brown trout, kokanee
Open to fishing all year.
TAYLOR LAKE: rainbow trout, largemouth bass
The lake is covered with ice.
THREE CREEK LAKE: rainbow trout, brook trout
Open to fishing all year.
WALTON LAKE: rainbow trout
No recent reports.
CENTRAL ZONE HUNTING
OPEN: COUGAR, 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- Large numbers of Canada Geese have been showing up throughout
Sherman and Wasco counties. Most areas of concentrated birds are on private
grounds, please ask permission to hunt on private ground. See Oregon Game Bird
Regulations for all waterfowl season dates.
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. Grouse and quail numbers are
good throughout the district.
Coyote –There are high numbers of Coyotes in Hood River, Wasco and Sherman
Counties. Those wishing to pursue will find the best success near agricultural lands.
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
throughout the year can be 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.
Furbearers: Most harvest seasons for furbearing mammals have opened. Refer to
the Oregon Furbearer Trapping and Hunting Regulations 2014- 2016.
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.
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.
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
Winter is an excellent time to view raptors around Deschutes County. Red-tailed
hawks are one of the most numerous birds of prey and are commonly seen on fence
and power poles scanning meadows, sagebrush shrub steppe, and other open areas
for their next meal.
Snow has blanketed the higher elevations. Travel conditions and accessibility to high
mountain lakes is tentative and drivers should check conditions before heading out,
but visitors to lakes such as, Wickiup and Crane Prairie are likely to see common
loons, Canada geese, American widgeon, green-winged teal, bufflehead, ring-necked
ducks, northern shovelers, lesser scaup, common and Barrow’s goldeneye, multiple
gull species, and various grebes including horned, eared, western, and Clark’s. In
addition to the water birds, you can expect to see bald eagles, hermit thrushes,
Williamson’s, hairy and black-backed woodpeckers, gray jay, northern flicker,
mountain chickadee, red-breasted nuthatch, red crossbill, and many other species.
Other birding destinations to consider include Tumalo Reservoir (west of Highway 20
between Sister and Bend), Pelton Dam wildlife overlook and Lake Simstustus
(Deschutes River northwest of Madras), and Hatfield Lakes (just north of the Bend
airport).
Black-tailed jackrabbits can be seen in many areas where sagebrush abounds, and
squirrels can still be observed conducting their winter activities on national forest and
BLM lands, but expect to see less activity at higher elevations. Reptiles are now
sequestered in underground winter quarters that protect them from freezing
conditions. And although amphibians can be active at colder temperatures (even
under ice!), they will be much harder to find until next spring. We’ll know spring is
back when the chirrups of tree frogs can be heard once again. 12/01/14
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. 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.
12/8/2014
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
•
•
The Klamath River below Keno Dam is open. This area typically provides
excellent fishing for large redband trout.
Ana River is a great match the hatch fly fishing river with good hatches
throughout the winter.
Ice fishing workshop
Learn how to make the best of snowy, icy conditions at a Jan. 24, 2015 Family Ice
Fishing Workshop on Lake of the Woods near Klamath Falls.
If your favorite fishing spot is no longer listed
It’s probably because that river, lake or reservoir is closed for the season,
inaccessible due to snow and bad roads, or offers limited fishing opportunities during
the winter months. These water bodies will re-appear in the Recreation Report when
they re-open next spring, or when access and/or opportunity improves.
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. Small blue winged olive (size 18) mayflies should
be hatching. Ana River is a great match the hatch fly fishing river with good hatches
throughout the winter. Hatches typically occur during the afternoon from 12-3 p.m. the
best time. Small mayfly hatches are typically best on overcast days with light rain or
snow. The roads paralleling the river are likely very muddy. Anglers can park at Ana
Reservoir and hike down or park at the lower road crossing and hike up. 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.
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. The reservoir may be partially frozen but open water
should still be available for fishing. 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: redband trout
No recent fishing report. The river is currently flowing between 25 to 40 cfs with water
temperatures in the low 30s. The East Canal, Bridge Creek, mainstem Blitzen above
Bridge Creek and the Little Blitzen River are open for catch-and-release fishing for
trout. The South Loop Road is currently open to the South Steens Campground but
check with Burns BLM before heading out, as recent weather may have prompted gate
closures.
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. Ice formed with the recent cold weather, but has since receded
and the pond is almost entirely open water. 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.
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 by 10-15 feet. Ice has
formed on the reservoir, BUT it is not safe. There are some open water areas along
the shore, and around rocks and the dock and the recent warmer weather could
open up more of the lake. Trout numbers will be down this fall, but anglers should be
able to catch some trout now that temperatures have fallen.
COTTONWOOD MEADOWS: rainbow trout, brook trout
Access might be blocked by snow and the reservoir could be frozen.
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. Ice has formed on the reservoir, BUT it is not safe.
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.
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.
Access is available off Westside Road at Fourmile Springs. A small car topper boat
or canoe can improve fishing access at this area. Anglers should be aware of
private property around this area and can check Klamath County Land Ownership
for information.
FOURMILE LAKE: rainbow trout, lake trout, kokanee, brook trout
Conditions at the lake are cold and snowy. The road into Fourmile might be
blocked by snow. Anglers can call Lake of the Woods Resort for more information.
The lake is currently at dead pool.
Fourmile Lake levels
GERBER RESERVOIR: crappie, yellow perch, brown bullhead and largemouth bass
The lake is only 1 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. The pond
is not yet ice-covered.
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, though all these lakes might be frozen.
HWY 203 POND: trout, bass, bluegill
The pond is not yet ice-covered
J.C. BOYLE RESERVOIR (Topsy Reservoir): Largemouth bass, yellow perch,
brown bullhead, pumpkinseed, crappie, goldfish
Fishing is very slow for warmwater fish such as crappie, pumpkinseed sunfish and
brown bullhead catfish. The reservoir is turbid therefore anglers should try lures with
high visibility and scent. Boats can be launched in several locations in the reservoir.
Unimproved ramps occur just north and south of the Highway 66 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. Water temperatures in the reservoir are peaking at about 42 degrees.
UPPER KLAMATH AND AGENCY LAKES: native redband trout and yellow perch
The lake is turbid therefore bank fishing or still fishing has been more productive
than trolling or casting from a boat. Fishing is generally slow with catch rates
averaging 7 hours per redband from boat and 30 hours per redband from the shore.
Most anglers are fishing from shore near Moore Park, off highway 140 or at Eagle
Ridge County Park. Water temperature has increased slightly to 41 degrees. Water
temperatures around 58-60 degrees are ideal for redband trout activity. The lake is
4.3 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 is open to fishing. Fishing is
fair but is the best bet for winter fishing in the Klamath Area. The current flow is
603 cfs. Water clarity is good. Water temperatures are averaging around 42
degrees. 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.
The Klamath River between JC Boyle Dam to JC Boyle Powerhouse offers fair spinner
fishing. Most fish in this section are small and average 10 inches. Below the springs
this section remains near a constant 360 cfs of flow and water temperatures are
much warmer in this section. Fishing is best below the spring inputs. This section of
river requires a hike down steep grade to the river with the exception of the area
just above the powerhouse.
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. 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. 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. The past week the fishable flows have occurred at
3:00 pm. 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
Snow and mud will make accessing the reservoir challenging.
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 freeze 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 have been 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
Recent reports indicate that the reservoir is dry.
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 Dec. 15 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 ice has formed on much of the river.
MALHEUR RIVER, NORTH FORK: redband trout, whitefish, and bull trout
No recent reports.
MALHEUR RIVER, MIDDLE FORK: redband trout, brook trout, and bull trout
No recent reports.
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 and ice could be present following
the recent cold weather.
MILLER LAKE: brown trout, kokanee, rainbow trout, brook trout
Access might be blocked by snow. Anglers can call the Chemult Ranger District of
the USFS (541-365-7001) for more information. The 12 mile gravel road into
Miller Lake is in horrible condition with numerous washboards. The dock has been
taken out for the winter and the bathrooms with running water have been closed.
MUD LAKE: hatchery rainbow trout
No recent reports. Road is likely very muddy
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. The pond
is not yet ice-covered.
OVERTON RESERVOIR: rainbow trout
Access to the reservoir is likely difficult due to snow or mud.
OWYHEE RESERVOIR: largemouth and smallmouth bass, crappie, yellow perch, catfish
No recent reports, but angling is expected to be slow. The access road to the
reservoir was snow-packed/icy due to cold weather during the week of Nov. 17. 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 10 cfs as of Dec. 15. Ice has formed on the
river but recent weather may have opened up water for fishing.
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 16 percent of capacity. The reservoir is not yet ice-covered. 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 were 8 to 10-inches when released and should be much larger by winter. 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 closed to fishing until April 25, 2015.
POISON CREEK RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout
Ice has formed at the reservoir, but it is unsafe at this time. The limit is 2 per day,
please respect the fishing regulations for the reservoir.
POLE CREEK RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout
No recent report. Access to the reservoir may be difficult due to snow, mud or ice.
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 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. Significant numbers of brown trout and a few
redband trout continue to spawn at the mouth of Spring Creek at Collier State
Park and make for great fish watching.
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 drained by the Lower Powder River Irrigation District in September
2014. The reservoir was not restocked with rainbow 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.
UNITY RESERVOIR: trout, bass, crappie
The reservoir is at about 11 percent of capacity and is not yet ice-covered. 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. Mud, snow or ice will make
accessing the reservoir difficult.
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
Mud, snow or ice will make accessing the reservoir difficult.
WOLF CREEK RESERVOIR: crappie, trout
The water level is now below the boat launch so fishing with larger trailered boats is not
possible. The reservoir is not yet ice-covered.
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. Ice has formed on the lake and anglers can drive to the lake, but the
ice is currently unsafe for ice fishing. Water was observed on top of the lake and around
the margins of the lake on Nov. 24.
SOUTHEAST ZONE HUNTING
OPEN: COUGAR, UPLAND BIRD (some close Dec. 31, see regs) WATERFOWL
(see regs)
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
Forest Grouse - Season remains open through the end of December. Grouse can be
found in the forested portions of the Silvies and Malheur Units, but population
numbers are low. Blue grouse are generally found along ridges that have some forest
openings. Ruffed grouse are usually found along riparian areas. Hunters are asked to
collect wings and tails from any grouse harvested and submit them to an ODFW
office. Closes Dec. 31.
Upland Game Bird season continues. 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. Pheasant closes
Dec. 31.
Elk – Only a few antlerless ELK hunts are still open, in addition to the Youth
antlerless elk hunts that will continue through the end of December 2014.
Waterfowl season is open; see regs for season dates. 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.
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 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 - Duck season remains open through January 25, but most dabbling
ducks (mallards, gadwall, wigeon, pintail) have left the basin along their southern
migratory routes. Some diving ducks (bufflehead, goldeneye, merganser) still
remain on Upper Klamath Lake and other large water bodies. Canada goose season
also remains open until January 25 with some geese still using parts of the lower
basin.
Mountain quail season is open.. Look for brushy areas in the south Cascade
mountains. Hunters are reminded of the daily bag limit of 2/day in Klamath County.
Grouse Season remains open until December 31 and 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.
Cougar - Hunting is open year around. Populations are healthy and distributed
throughout the district in any area with a big game prey base. Cougars at this time
of year are generally concentrated along with their primary prey of deer and elk on
big game winter ranges. Some hutners have reported limited success with calling at
this time of year. 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. 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). All three Units of Klamath
Wildlife Area are now open during the designated 2014-15 shooting hours. A selfserve permit is required and can be obtained at the check station.
Federally approved non-toxic shot is required for all hunting.
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
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. December has been very wet and mild. Throughout the county
deer are using transition ranges between 5800 and 6500 feet. These areas are
predominately forest vegetation.
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. By this time of year Blue grouse will be roosting and feeding in fir trees.
Through the winter they spend very little time on the ground.
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. With the
mild and wet conditions of December many of the closed basin lakes in the county
have started holding water. Unfortunately that water did not show up soon enough
to hold substantial numbers of birds.
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.
SUMMER LAKE WILDLIFE AREA
This section was updated on December 23, 2014
The tenth week of hunting season was only fair for migratory birds and upland game
birds. Hunter participation was up dramatically compared to the same week of the
season last year. Decoy hunters willing to spend time in the field did fair, while pass
shooters did very poorly. Upland bird hunting pressure remains light.
Weather conditions were extremely variable the entire week and mostly stormy.
Heavy rainfall accompanied by strong winds occurred over the past weekend.
Temperatures remain unseasonably warm and mild with highs in the mid-40’s and
low 50’s and lows that remained above or slightly below freezing. The entire marsh
remains open and ice free through the past weekend.
For the 10th week of the season, hunter participation (144 check-in) was over 2
times the number of hunters (+114.9%) from last year and reported harvest
(92.8% check-out) of 173 birds (154 ducks, 11 Canada geese, 7 Am. coots and
one California quail) was up slightly (7.5 %) from the same week of the season
last year. The bird per hunter average of 1.35 was down significantly (-48.8%)
from 2013.
Duck harvest was reported to consist of 42 mallards, 37 American wigeon, 25
N.shoveler, 16 bufflehead, 11 gadwall, 7 ringneck ducks, 5 Am. Green-winged teal, 4
N. pintail and 7 other ducks of 4 different species. The duck per hunter average of
1.20 was down by more than half (-50.4%) from the 2.43 ducks/hunter reported for
the same week last year.
Eleven (11) were reported taken during the week. The season was closed during
this same week last year.
California quail take of one was down tremendously from the 12 reported taken in
2013 due to very little hunting effort.
The prospect for the upcoming week remains poor to fair unless weather
conditions change and become harsh.
Snow and white-fronted goose hunting seasons remain closed for the
rest of the season.
Weather conditions for the upcoming week are forecasted to remain somewhat
mild with chances of rain or showers mid-week. Weekend conditions are
forecasted to be partly sunny and temperatures will be somewhat mild, so open
and ice-free conditions should persist through the upcoming weekend.
Frozen conditions are needed to concentrate ducks into smaller open water areas
and to increase their foraging activities. Currently, the entire area is open and icefree.
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 success.
The weekly waterfowl count conducted on Wednesday Dec. 16 found about 16,500
ducks and 1,400 geese present. The next count is scheduled for December 23rd and
results will be posted on the department website and wildlife area’s telephone
answering machine the following day.
Habitat conditions remain good with most all units being fully flooded or nearly so
and ice free.
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 year of age 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
The snow storm that came through Nov. 14 deposited 6 inches of snow in the
northern portion of Malheur County. Currently the Treasure Valley is in an inversion
with well below average temperatures. These cold temperatures have frozen up most
standing water bodies concentrating waterfowl on the Snake River.
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 – Season closes Dec. 31. 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
Wintering raptors have returned to the area. You should be able to view golden
eagles, bald eagles and a variety of hawks perching on telephone poles and fence
posts throughout the district. Resident raptors such as northern harriers and redtailed hawks are very easily observed in open agricultural areas.
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.
Many of the bighorn sheep will be using lower elevation slopes and can often be seen
from the highways. Bighorn sheep may be seen from highway 205 along Catlow
Valley or along the East Steens Road. 12/9/14.
KLAMATH COUNTY
With winter setting in, it’s a good time to stock your bird feeders. It’s also a good
idea to clean your feeder periodically through the winter to reduce spread of
diseases.
Swans have arrived in the Klamath Basin offering excellent viewing and
photographing opportunity. While the vast majority of the individuals present are
tundra swans, occasionally a trumpeter swan can be observed.
A great opportunity for wildlife viewing is right in Klamath Falls with several options
available. The Wingwatchers Trail starts right at Veterans Park along Lake Ewauna in
downtown and the Link River Trail is accessed from Lakeshore Drive. Many aquatic
birds can viewed as well as passerine species.
Bald eagles have begun moving into the Klamath Basin. Good areas to view
wintering bald eagles are along Eagle Ridge and Shoalwater Bay accessed from Eagle
Ridge Road from Highway 140. The Lower Klamath National Wildlife Refuge provides
great viewing opportunities as well.
Rough-legged hawks are beginning to show up from northern breeding locations and
are easily found foraging around agricultural areas throughout the basin. Red-tailed
hawks and northern harriers are very common and can be observed in agricultural
areas as well.
Fall migration has concluded for mule deer and they are now readily observed on
lower elevation winter ranges. Please note that many high density winter ranges are
closed to motorized travel to protect wintering big game, which are particularly
vulnerable to disturbance during this difficult time of year. Foot traffic, cross country
skiing, and snowshoeing are great ways of accessing these restricted areas on public
land, but be aware that private lands may not be posted. Ask for permission from
the landowner before entering private lands. Please watch for game and use caution
while traveling on area highways and county roads.
12/23/14.
Klamath Wildlife Area (Miller Island)
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,
however a majority of the waterfowl have migrated out. You can still find a few
mallards, northern pintail, American wigeon, gadwall, Northern shoveler, and
American green-winged teal scattered around. Divers such as canvasbacks, scaup,
ringnecks, redhead, bufflehead, ruddy duck and goldeneye can still be seen on the
Wildlife Area and along the Klamath River.
Shorebirds, waders and other waterbirds
Majority of the shorebirds have migrated, but you can still find the occasional
common snipe, yellow legs species and killdeer.
Pied billed, Western and eared grebes can still be found on the wildlife area and
Klamath River.
Ring-billed gulls continue to be a common site on the area, but continue to decline in
numbers as winter progresses.
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 and white crowned sparrows continue to
be a common site throughout the area.
Marsh wrens and song sparrows can be found in dense stands of tall emergent hard
stem 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.
12/7/14.
LAKE COUNTY
December has been mild and rainy which has allowed most of the closed basin
lakes in the county to start holding water. Most of that water is less than four
inches deep and spread over thousands of acres. The rain arrived too late to hold
any substantial number of water birds, but should provide feeding habitat this
spring.
Winter resident raptors are common throughout the major valleys in the county.
Bald eagle numbers are increasing. 12/23/14.
SUMMER LAKE WILDLIFE AREA
This section was updated on December 23, 2014.
Summer Lake Wildlife Area requires a 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; all of the area’s wetlands are open and ice-free.
Emergent vegetation is beginning to lodge-over due to recent strong winds.
Waterfowl
Waterfowl populations remain in fair numbers. Fall migration is over but a few birds
continue to move into the area from nearby locations. Birds are widely dispersed across
the entire wildlife area in small areas of open and ice-free water.
The weekly count conducted on December 16 coincided with the 28th Annual
Christmas Bird Count. Mild conditions and excellent participant turnout (21)
resulted in a record number of species detected (96) as well as a record total
number of birds found - 23,220 individuals. Waterfowl were the most numerous
species group represented, over 16,600 ducks representing 15 species, over 1,500
geese (Canada, lesser snow and greater-white fronted) and over 900 swans.
Migrant trumpeter swan numbers remain fairly strong with nearly 60 present on the
Christmas Bird Count. A few of these birds a part of restoration efforts and will be
neck-banded 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.
Shorebirds, waders and other waterbirds
Shorebird numbers continue to decline at this time as fall migration is over and
because of the frozen over conditions experienced a few weeks ago. Only 12
individuals of three species (killdeer, greater yellowlegs and Wilson’s snipe) were
found.
American coot numbers remained fairly strong with over 1,000 tallied on the
count. A high count of 13 Virginia rails was reported along with one sora.
Five (5) species of grebes (eared, western, pied-billed, horned and Clark’s) were
found. One American bittern and 25 great blue herons were counted.
Raptors and others
Wintering raptors, especially northern harriers (105), red-tailed hawks (62), bald eagles
(a high count of 22) and rough-legged hawk (15) were found scattered throughout the
Wildlife Area as well as on private lands along Hwy 31. Of interest were 2 redshouldered hawks, one ferruginous hawk, 10 golden eagles, 10 American kestrel and 5
prairie falcons. Two species of accipiters (Cooper’s and sharp-shinned hawk) were
observed.
A total of 14 great horned owls were found scattered across the entire wildlife area,
especially in the trees at campgrounds and two common-barn owls were detected.
Upland game birds
A good number (269) of California quail were found but very few ring-necked
pheasants (3) and chukar (3) were located. Pheasants are difficult to observe
since hunting seasons have started.
Passerines
Eurasian collared doves remain very numerous at Headquarters Complex and two
mourning doves were observed.
American and lesser goldfinches continue to be observed in good numbers at
Headquarters. Song sparrows are very common along dikes and levees and a total of
13 species of finches and sparrows were found on the count. A Harris’ sparrow missed
during the count was observed over the past weekend.
Wintering Townsend’s solitaires, American robins and sometimes cedar waxwings are
fairly abundant around Headquarters now. 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 low at this time, although a few small 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 all of the wildlife area’s wetlands are open and ice free.
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.
Emergent wetland vegetation is well into fall senescence across all wetland areas now
and much of it is lodged over due to recent strong winds.
Upland habitat remains in excellent condition with considerable residual vegetation
that is providing high quality food and cover for many wildlife species. No snow is on
the ground at this time. Planted tree and shrub plots are providing excellent
sheltered sites for many wildlife species.
Please contact Summer Lake Wildlife Area at (541) 943-3152 or e-mail
[email protected] for additional information.
FISHING
Weekend fishing opportunities
•
•
•
The Wallowa River has been producing enough steelhead to keep quite a few
anglers interested. Flows are on the drop which means conditions are right to tie
into some steel.
The Imnaha River has continued to produce successful steelhead trips. Flows are
on the drop from a weekend high and should set up well for a Christmas Day
steelhead!
Umatilla River steelhead fishing continues to be good. Returns to Threemile
Dam (3,438 fish as of Dec.19) have hit a new record for this early in the
season.
If your favorite fishing spot is no longer listed
It’s probably because that river, lake or reservoir is closed for the season,
inaccessible due to snow and bad roads, or offers limited fishing opportunities during
the winter months. These water bodies will re-appear in the Recreation Report when
they re-open next spring, or when access and/or opportunity improves.
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. The reservoir has frozen. Proceed with caution, ice may be too thin to support
anglers.
GRANDE RONDE RIVER: steelhead
Anglers have recently reported good steelhead fishing on the Grande Ronde.
However, flows have jumped to very high over the weekend and will make angling a
more difficult until flows subside. Once flows drop angling will continue to produce well
throughout the winter. Boating will be much easier for both rafters and drift boaters.
With cooling water temps look for fish to move to calmer water where they can
conserve energy while holding. A healthy proportion of two salt fish has resulted in a
large average size this year. So, expect a few larger fish and some screaming drags!
Remember, only adipose-fin clipped rainbow trout may be retained and all bull trout
must be released unharmed.
HOLLIDAY PARK POND: trout
Remains open all year. Trophy trout were stocked on Sept. 23 and should provide
good fishing for the remainder of the year. Proceed with caution if pond is iced over.
Ice may be too thin to support anglers.
IMNAHA RIVER: Steelhead
Anglers
jumped
Anglers
that’s a
are still making successful steelhead trips to the lower Imnaha. Flows
over the weekend and are falling which is the best time to get on the fish.
have reported catching fish on both fly and conventional gear. Try using gear
little smaller than your used to when water temperatures are low.
JOHN DAY RIVER: Steelhead
Heavy rains over the past weekend have made the John Day high and muddy.
Steelhead fishing is expected to be poor until flows recede to 2000 cfs or below. Then
the steelhead should be scattered from the mouth up to Kimberly. ODFW encourages all
anglers to keep any ad-clipped steelhead taken in this fishery. All wild (adipose intact)
steelhead must be released unharmed.
Check John Day River flows
LONG CREEK POND, CAVENDER POND: trout
Remain open all year. Trophy trout were stocked on Sept. 23 and should provide
good fishing for the remainder of the year. Bass fishing is likely poor with the onset
of freezing temperatures. Proceed with caution if pond is iced over. Ice may be too
thin to support anglers.
MAGONE LAKE: rainbow and brook trout
Remains open all year. Proceed with caution if lake is iced-over. Ice may be too thin
to support anglers.
PEACH POND (Ladd Marsh): rainbow trout
The pond was stocked with trophy-sized rainbow trout in late September. The pond
has no ice cover yet.
ROULET POND: rainbow trout
The pond was stocked with trophy-sized rainbow trout in late September. The pond
has no ice cover yet.
ROWE CREEK RESERVOIR: rainbow trout
Remains open all year. Trout fishing is fair but the water level is very low. Proceed
with caution if pond is iced-over. Ice may be too thin to support anglers.
UMATILLA FOREST PONDS: trout
The forest ponds remain open to angling year around and can provide a good
opportunity for ice fishing during the winter months.
UMATILLA RIVER: steelhead
Steelhead fishing was good last week with lower river anglers averaging 3.0 hours
per steelhead caught and upper river anglers averaging 4.1 hours per steelhead
caught. High flow over the weekend made the river unfishable for several days; the
river has dropped and is clearing in the Pendleton area. Steelhead are distributed
though out the system. Anglers are find best success using bobbers and jigs and drift
fishing for steelhead. Anglers should consult the synopsis for detailed regulations.
Threemile Dam fish counts
WALLOWA LAKE: rainbow trout, kokanee, lake trout
Some rainbow trout are still available and tagged fish are occasionally being reported.
Trout have been caught with a variety of methods but a simple rig with PowerBait has
been most effective. If the cold weather continues and the lake freezes, ice fishing can
be good for both kokanee and trout. 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
Reports of successful steelhead trips have been surprisingly consistent for steelhead.
The best time to catch steelhead on the Wallowa is normally late winter or early
spring, but there are enough fish being caught currently to keep anglers interested.
Remember the Wallowa River is a whitefish factory. Whitefish can be a great way to
keep kids interested while steelhead fishing and can be great table fair. Simply tie in a
small bead-head nymph dropper while fishing under a bobber rig and let the fun
begin. Also, steelhead will often take a bead head nymph hanging under a jig.
NORTHEAST ZONE HUNTING
OPEN: COUGAR, 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)
Chukar, 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.
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
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.
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
Upland Game Bird season closes December 31st in Morrow and Umatilla counties.
So far the season has been slow with chukar being the most commonly encountered
game bird. Pheasant hunting has been poor this year as well. Huns were slightly
better than last year but still well below average.
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
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
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.
Waterfowl hunting has been slow due to the early freeze-up. Recent warm
temperatures and rain is beginning to open some areas. Local bird numbers remain
good and hunting should improve if warm temperatures persist.
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. 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)
Elk - Numbers of elk are strong throughout most of Wallowa County with good bull to
cow ratios in all units. Most animals are now on winter ranges at lower elevations.
Several antlerless elk seasons are open now and success has been moderate.
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. Season closes Dec. 31.
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 remains open thru
Jan. 31.
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. 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.
Deer and elk are returning to the valley to winter. Early in the morning and late in
the afternoon are good times to view wildlife. Driving through the foothills of the
Baker valley and through the Keating valley can turn up good numbers of deer.
11/25/14.
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
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. Short-eared owls can be seen along
most of the grasslands along the foothills of the District. Watch for the irregular
wing beat of the owl, it is quite distinctive. We have had reports of a snowy owl near
the Boardman Conservation Area. Access is limited but one may be able to see the
owl from Immigrant Lane.
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. 12/23/14.
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 seven 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 (at the above link), 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.
Water levels had begun to recover when the unseasonably cold temperatures struck.
The wildlife area remains mostly frozen. Waterfowl are using grain fields and many
may be seen loafing on Hot Lake.
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. Northern shrikes have been seen in several locations
across the area.
Raptors include Red-tailed Hawk, Northern Harrier, Rough-legged Hawk, Great
horned and Barn Owls, Cooper’s and Sharp-shinned Hawks and American Kestrel.
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. 12/01/14.
WALLOWA COUNTY
Winter is a good time to view mule deer and white-tailed deer as they are more
actively feeding during the limited hours of daylight this time of year. A good place
to observe mule deer is along the Wallowa Lake highway between Joseph and the
south end of Wallowa Lake. Drive slowly and watch along the moraine on the east
side of the lake around dawn and dusk. Be careful to use the turnouts when stopping
to watch these animals, as there will be other traffic on the road. White-tailed deer
can be found throughout the Wallowa Valley on or near agricultural lands.
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.
Large numbers of migrant waterfowl can be seen flying into Wallowa Lake in the
evenings from the county park at the north end of the lake. Canada geese and
several species of ducks can be seen feeding in agricultural fields and along streams
around the county. Other winter migrants have begun to move into the area
including several bald eagles. 12/16/14
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 1-800-4223143 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
Approximately 800 adult steelhead were released into the reservoir in November.
According to current Oregon fishing regulations, adipose fin-clipped steelhead
released into Hells Canyon Reservoir are considered trout. Neither a
salmon/steelhead harvest card nor Columbia Basin Endorsement are required for this
fishery. The daily bag limit is three adipose fin-clipped trout over 20-inches.
SNAKE RIVER below HELLS CANYON RESERVOIR: trout, steelhead, salmon, bass
Steelhead and trout fishing below Hells Canyon has been producing. Steelhead will be
available throughout the winter and into the closure on April 15, 2015. 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
Notice of Columbia River Compact/Joint State hearing: ODFW & WDFW have
scheduled a Joint State hearing for 10 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 28, 2015 at the Clark
Regional Wastewater District office (8000 52nd Court, Vancouver, Washington). The
purpose of this hearing is to review salmon and steelhead stock status and consider
non-Indian commercial and recreational fishing seasons in the Columbia River and
Select Areas.
Weekend Fishing Opportunities:
•
•
•
•
Steelhead angling is fair in the John Day Arm.
White sturgeon retention is closed but remains an option for catch-andrelease fishing.
Effective Jan. 1 through March 1, 2015 sturgeon retention will be open in the
Bonneville Pool.
Effective Jan. 1, 2015 sturgeon retention will be open in The Dalles and John
Day Pools until the respective guidelines are met.
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 two adipose fin-clipped steelhead kept, plus six unclipped
steelhead released for nine boats.
STURGEON
Buoy 10 upstream to the Oregon/Washington Border:
Closed to retention, catch-and-release only.
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:
•
•
•
•
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. This time of year, whenever the
weather permits, bottom fishing can be great fun and very productive. Charter
fishing trips are an especially good bet for visitors to the coast, making an ocean
fishing experience easy and enjoyable with expert crews to help provide and rig gear
and find good fishing locations. December is a good time to try for deep water
lingcod. This is the last full week anglers can retain cabezon, which is open 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
A holiday feast!
Many people celebrate the winter holiday season with a seafood feast. The winter low
tides will provide opportunity to harvest your own shellfish to make a nice meal like
cioppino. Cioppino is a simple tomato-based stew of fresh shellfish and fish. A few
shellfish ingredients that you can harvest yourself include: mussels (can be found off
many jetties and rocks), bay clams (like cockles or butter clams), razor clams, and
crab (Dungeness or red rock). Add some white fish (like halibut or rockfish from your
freezer or the market) and enjoy!
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, Netarts, Siletz, Yaquina, Alsea, and Coos bays and several other locations
along the coast.
Recreational shellfish safety status, as of Dec. 16:
•
•
•
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
Ocean-caught crabs are big and full of meat this year, although crabbers might have
to pay their dues in patience—many crabbers are reporting slow catch rates, but
excellent quality crabs. Bay crabbing can also be very good this time of year, but has
been somewhat slower than usual this year. Keep in mind that major rain events can
dramatically lower the salinity in some bays and prompt crab to move lower in the
bay or out to the ocean. Poor bay crabbing conditions are expected to continue
through the Christmas week due to continuing rains. Boaters who do venture out
should use extra caution and watch for hazards caused by lots of large woody debris
coming downriver. 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.
For a family-friendly crabbing adventure, try a lightweight (and affordable) folding
crab trap. Most commonly attached to a sturdy fishing rod or lightweight line, these
traps are perfect for crabbing from the shore or a dock. 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
mouths of Siletz Bay or Alsea Bay, and from any public fishing pier. Combine some
crabbing with your recreational paddling—folding crab traps also work well from
small boats such as kayaks or canoes. Don’t forget to take along a large bucket for
your catch!
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 WILDLIFE VIEWING
Whale Watch Week is almost here (but why wait?)!
Volunteers with the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department’s Whale Watching
Spoken Here program will be stationed at great whale watching sites from December
27-31 so they can help others spot the whales.
The winter and spring Whale Watch Weeks highlight the passage of migrating whales
making their way to and from the waters off Alaska and Mexico. The winter migration
season is generally mid-December through January.
Don’t limit your watching only to the Whale Watch Weeks, though—Oregon also has
resident gray whales who stick around all year, and great whale watching
opportunities occur anytime the viewing conditions are good! Gray and humpback
whales are the most common species sighted in Oregon’s nearshore waters.
Seabirds
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).
Coastal Wildlife Viewing Highlight: Yaquina Bay South Jetty
Looking for a great place to spend some time outdoors with family around the
holidays? Bird and wildlife watching is easy on the Yaquina Bay South Jetty Road in
Newport. This is an ideal excursion in any weather, and is good for all ages. It is
very flat (easy walking), and the birds and wildlife are always there! Bring
binoculars or a spotting scope for up-close viewing.
To get there, from the South Beach peninsula in Newport turn onto South Jetty road
and drive past the residences at the beginning of the roadway. Once clear of the
northside buildings, the breakwater makes a cove. Begin to scan the water for
harbor seals. You will see a nose, or flipper or a head. Stop and watch them—they
seem to like company. A few adults and two or three pups are often spotted there.
To the west of the cove toward the ocean is the first of three boulder breakwaters. If
the rocks are visible (low to mid tide), you could see surf scoters, coots, buffleheads,
surf scoters, great blue herons, grebes, and two types of cormorants. Between the
first and second breakwaters there are usually buffleheads, grebes and loons.
Sometimes harbor seals are resting on the rocks, as well.
The second breakwater is usually a fishing spot, but be on the lookout for the same
types of birds.
The third breakwater is frequented by brown pelicans.Watch them as they stand into
the wind and sleep, stretch; preen and yawn! There will be cormorants and other
waterfowl. A ruddy turnstone was there in the morning on Monday, 12/15.
After the third breakwater look for animals feeding in the water—usually cormorants,
surf scoters and sea lions!
As you make your way back toward the bridge, look for the marsh hawk on the south
side of the roadway. The marsh hawk can be identified by its tan topside with a
white rump patch, and white underneath with black-tipped wings. This bird can
hover like a helicopter. The hawk may be roosting at the top of the small trees, or
flying over the grasses. Just past the first breakwater, look in the flooded area
within the grasses for mallards. Many are there now, and the males are chasing
each other to be alone with the females.
For a more active adventure, bring bicycles or running shoes and explore the trails
leading off the South Jetty road into South Beach State Park. These trails connect
with the South Beach State Park campground and day use area, and offer a mix of
paved and packed dirt surfaces, as well as sandy beach access. Raptors and small
wildlife abound.
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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