Winter steelhead fishing
Smart anglers will check water levels and hit the rivers whenflows are lower and dropping. Many of the small creeks and riverswill clear more quickly after a rain event. Some of the hottestfishing is in North Coast streams with early returning hatcheryfish, while the fisheries on the Sandy and Clackamas rivers are offto an early start. Check out the SW, NW and Willamette Zonereports for an update on your favorite steelhead river.
Bald eagles arrive
Wintering bald eagles have arrived in many parts of the state.See Viewing reports for each zone to learn where you can seethem.
Report your hunt by Jan. 31 – you could draw a special big gametag!
If you purchased a deer, elk, pronghorn, cougar, bear or turkeytag, you should report your hunt results by Jan. 31—even if you didnot fill your tag or go hunting. Hunters that do will have thechance to win a big game tag of their choice (deer, elk orpronghorn) that entitles them to hunt in an expanded hunt areaduring an extended season. Report online or by phone at1-866-947-ODFW (6339). More information
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Apply for 2010 controlled hunt by Jan. 31 to win one of 50Sports Pacs
Hunters that apply for and are issued a controlled huntapplication by Jan. 31, 2010 will be entered into drawing(s) to winone of 50 2011 Resident Sports Pac (a $164.75 value) or a 2011 NonResident Hunting License (a $140.50 value). Apply by March 15 orApril 15 for additional chances to win. More information
FISHING
Weekend fishing opportunities:
* Large rainbow trout brood fish were released recently inWalling Pond, Walter Wirth Lake, Junction City Pond, Mt. Hood Pondand West Salish Pond. These fish range in size from 8 to 18pounds.
* Winter steelhead fishing is good in the Clackamas and Sandyrivers and Eagle Creek. Steelhead are spread throughout bothsystems and some good catches have been reported.
* Sturgeon fishing is good on the lower Willamette River.
STOCKING SCHEDULE
The schedules are posted at our website. Note the scheduledstocking dates for each pond are set for the Monday of thatrespective week and may not coincide with the actual stocking datethat could occur on any given week day.
North Willamette stocking schedule
South Willamette stocking schedule
CLACKAMAS RIVER: steelhead
Fishing conditions have been excellent on the Clackamas recentlyand anglers continue to report some good catches throughout theriver from the mouth to McIver Park. Effort has been high, withboat ram parking lots full of vehicles during the weekends.Steelhead fishing should continue to be good through March.
Tuesday hydro readings showed a gage height of 13.12’, the watertemperature steady at 41°, and flows running at 3,810 cfs.
Bank anglers can find access to the river in the Gladstone/CrossPark area, at Carver near the mouth of Clear Creek, along ClackamasRiver Rd, at Barton Park, at Bonnie Lure Park, at McIver Park.
EAGLE CREEK: winter steelhead
Winter steelhead catch reports have been strong, and fish arespread throughout the system. The creek is very fishable, withgood, average winter flows and excellent color. Fish have beencaught from below Hwy 224 all the way up to the hatchery. Much ofthe creek runs through private property so pay close attention towhere you fish. Also watch for flow and temperature changes as aweather system moves in this week.
E.E. WILSON POND: trout
Open Feb. 1 to Sept. 30. Stocked this week with 1,000 brooktrout and next week with 500 legal size rainbow trout. This 8-acrepond is located within the E.E. Wilson Wildlife Management Area offhighway 99W. It is stocked throughout the spring with legal-sizedand larger trout.
JUNCTION CITY POND: trout, bluegill
Stocked this week with 60 rainbow trout ranging in size from 8to 18 pounds. Junction City pond is located about 2 miles south ofJunction City on 99W on the west side of the highway. There isexcellent access around the entire 8-acre pond.
MT HOOD POND: trout
Stocked this week with 60 rainbow trout brood trout ranging insize from 8 to 18 pounds. The pond is located on the Mt. HoodCommunity College campus.
NORTH AND SOUTH SANTIAM: steelhead, chinook, coho
The new regulation restricting angling to artificial flies andlures in the Little North Fork Santiam is in effect year round.
The temporary rules allowing for a bag limit of three salmon orsteelhead ended Dec. 31. Effective Jan. 1, daily bag limits returnto two adult salmon or steelhead per day, plus one additionalfin-clipped steelhead. River levels on the North Santiam best forfishing are below 3,000 cfs at the Mehama gauge. Check for currentconditions at http://waterdata.usgs.gov . Water clarity isgenerally very good. With the onset of cold weather the fish willbe looking for the warmer water upstream out of Detroit Lake. Thecoho are done, but there are still a few summer steelhead around,especially below rapids or other fast water areas where they tendto rest and congregate before pushing further upstream. Fishing forwinter steelhead should also pick up soon with more fish passingabove Willamette Falls destined for the North and South Santiamdaily. Areas below Stayton will have the most fish early in theseason. Smelly bait, pink lures as well as egg clusters tend towork best.
SANDY RIVER: winter steelhead
Winter steelhead fishing continues to be good in the Sandy Riverand will likely continue for at least another month.
Tuesday hydro readings showed flows at 2,600 cfs, a gage heightof 10.07, and a water temperature of 41°.
WARNING: Anglers are reminded that seasonal rain storms cancause sudden increases in water flows on the Sandy. Anglers shoulduse extreme caution before considering fording the river, andshould wear PFDs when entering the water.
SHERIDAN POND: trout
Stocked this week with 500 legal-sized rainbow trout. The pondis located on the edge of Sheridan in Yamhill County. From Hwy. 18,take exit 33 to Balston Rd turn right and then a left to thepond.
ST. LOUIS PONDS: trout
This 54-acre complex of 7 ponds is owned and managed by ODFW,and in addition to stocked trout contains several species ofwarmwater fish. The gate to the ponds is now closed for the seasonso anglers who want to try their luck at this site will have towalk in. The site is located west of the town of Gervais. Take St.Louis Road west to Tesch Lane, turn left and follow the road to theponds. The gate to the pond is now locked, so anglers should beprepared to make a short hike to the ponds.
WALLING POND: trout
Stocked a few weeks ago with 30 rainbow trout ranging in sizefrom 8 to 18 pounds and 450 legal size rainbow trout. The pond islocated within the Salem city limits west of I-5. Take Turner Roadoff Mission St.
WALTER WIRTH LAKE: trout
Stocked a few weeks ago with 60 rainbow trout brood fish rangingin size from 8 to 18 pounds and 1,850 legal size rainbow trout. Thelake is located east of Salem within Cascade Gateway Park, west ofI-5 at Hwy. 22. Take Airport Rd. or Turner Rd. to reach thelake.
WEST SALISH POND: trout
Stocked recently with 60 rainbow trout brood trout ranging insize from 8 to 18 pounds. Located off NE Glisan between 201st and207th in Fairview, east of Portland, the pond is located just ashort distance from Reynolds Middle School. From I-84, take Exit 16and travel south on Fairview Parkway.
WILLAMETTE RIVER: sturgeon, winter steelhead
Steelhead passage over Willamette Falls has been picking up.Through Jan. 21 showed 1,520 steelhead had crossed the falls, withseveral daily tallies approaching 100 fish.
Hydro readings at Willamette Falls on Jan. 22 showed flows at30,400 cfs, the water temperature at 45°, and the visibility low at1.2 ft.
Bank angling for steelhead has been good at Meldrum Bar has beengood from the point of the bar all the way up to the Blacktop nearthe mouth of the Clackamas River. If you are unsure of how toapproach this fishery, drop down and observe the anglers who havebeen fishing this water for years. Be courteous, ask questionsabout gear and join the fun.
Boat anglers will often fish out from the old bulkhead, butshould try to stay clear of the bank angler’s casting space.
Sturgeon fishing effort and success slowed a bit on theWillamette during the past weeks as flows dropped. Surveys ofsturgeon fishing effort over the last three-day fishing periodshowed a total of 168 boats landing 925 sub-legals, 29 legals and 3oversize sturgeon. An additional 44 bank fishermen caught 2legal-sized sturgeon and 3 sub-legals.
A successful sturgeon trip can often be dependent on what baitis offered, location, and conditions. Anglers should carry multiplebaits and be prepared to switch until finding one that brings abite. Anglers have been finding success using a variety includingsmelt, anchovies, squid, or sand shrimp. Some extra “scent” canalso be helpful. Look for muddy water and high flows.
WILLAMETTE ZONE HUNTING
OPEN: WATERFOWL (see regulations), FURBEARERS, COUGAR
Bird seasons close Jan. 31.
Use the Oregon Hunting Access Map to see where to hunt.
EVENTS
Feb. 6 – Rabbit Hunt for Disabled Hunters with Mary’s Peak HoundClub. Contact EE Wilson Wildlife Area for more information tel.541-745-5334.
EVENT FULL Feb. 20 – Becoming an Outdoors-Woman Pheasant Hunt,Luckiamute Valley Pheasant Preserve (near Dallas). Moreinformation
EVENT FULL Feb. 21 – Mentor Youth Pheasant Hunt, LuckiamuteValley Pheasant Preserve (near Dallas). More information
Feb. 20 and 21 – Youth Rabbit Hunt, E.E. Wilson Wildlife Area,sponsored by the Marys Peak Hound Club. See page 23 of the OregonGame Bird Regulations for more information. Registration opens Feb.1 by calling EE Wilson WA at tel. 541-745-5334
REMINDER
Report your hunt results by Jan. 31 for chance to draw specialbig game tag. Anyone who purchases a 2009 big game or turkey tagmust report hunt results online or by phone—even if you did notfill your tag or go hunting. More information
BE PREPARED
Hunters are reminded to prepare for cold temperatures: dressappropriately and keep survival equipment such as food, water,sleeping bags, fire starting material with you and in your vehicleduring this cold period. Let someone know where you will be andwhen you expect to return just in case your vehicle becomesstuck.
Late season DEER hunts have ended and deer hunting will beshutting down for the year in all areas except the Willamette Unitcontrolled deer hunt which ends on February 28, 2010. Huntersparticipating in the Willamette Unit controlled deer hunt shouldfind plenty of deer available. Private lands limit access for thishunt and participants need to obtain permission before hunting onprivate lands. Hunters without private land connections can explorehunting opportunities on Willamette Greenway parcels. Informationabout these areas can be found in the Willamette River RecreationGuide published by the Oregon State Marine Board and Oregon StateParks or by contacting the Oregon Parks and Recreation Departmentat 503-986-0707.
Controlled elk rifle seasons opened Jan. 1 in the Scappoose,northeast portions of the Trask and northern portion of the SantiamUnit. Check the 2009 Oregon Big Game Regulations for the specificdates and boundaries of your hunt. Elk herds forced down to lowelevation agricultural fields to find forage are remaining in theseareas even though weather conditions have improved. Elk remain waryof humans and move in and out of the fields during the night orvery early or late in the day. Hunters who have access to privateagriculture lands will need to be in the field well before daylightto catch moving elk. On private timberlands hunters may want toglass clear cuts early in the morning and late in the afternoon.Elk will often bed down during the day in larger timber or timberreproduction stands. Some private timberlands may be open forhunting during this season. Please check with the landowner beforehunting on private lands.
There are some late season controlled elk hunts in the foothillsof the Willamette Valley in the Stott Mtn., Alsea, Siuslaw, Indigo,McKenzie and southern Santiam units. These hunts have low tagnumbers with hunters for these hunts drawing tags during thecontrolled hunt drawing. In these areas elk are generallyconcentrated on private lands. Please remember you must havepermission prior to hunting private lands. As the days begin tolengthen and the grass greens up, look, for elk feeding in pastureland or regenerating clear cuts in forest lands.
COUGAR season is remains open but hunter success rates in boththe Cascades and Coast range remains low. Remember a 2010 tag isneeded to hunt. Hunters are reporting that snow conditions fortracking cougar are good and will only improve over the winter.Several animals have been harvested by hunters taking a stand neara recent cougar kill. Hunters continue to use predator calls thatimitate the sounds of a deer or elk to draw cougars within shootingrange. It is always best to hunt with a partner when using predatorcalls. Sit back to back so you can observe any approaching cougar.Hunters headed for the northern end of the Willamette Valley tohunt cougar should concentrate their efforts in the CascadeMountains.
Successful cougar hunters will need to check-in any cougar takenat an ODFW office within 10 days of the kill. Hunters are remindedthat biologists located in field offices may be out in the fieldhandling other issues so call ahead to make arrangements to haveyour cougar checked-in. The hide and skull must be unfrozen and theskull and proof of sex must be attached to the hide. Hunters arerequired to submit the reproductive tract of any female cougartaken. Please review the 2010 Big Game Hunting Regulations beforeyour hunting trip to ensure that you are familiar with all of therequirements.
WATERFOWL hunters please remember that Zone 1 Duck and Merganserseason closes on Jan. 31, as does the Regular Goose Season in theNorthwest OR General Goose Zone. Hunters are having good success inthe upper Willamette Valley. Large rafts of diving ducks can befound on the Columbia River from St. Helens to Wauna. Weather,tides and water levels play a large part in having a successful dayon the Columbia River. Finding protected coves and back eddieswhere ducks settle in during stormy weather will give you your bestchance for success. Please review the 2009-2010 Oregon Game BirdRegulations for more information.
Canada GOOSE hunters, please remember that the Regular GooseSeason, Northwest Oregon General Zone closes on January 31. Huntersare experiencing fair to good success. Hunting Canada geese in theWillamette Valley is closely regulated and hunters should carefullyread the 2009-2010 Oregon Game Bird Regulations for moreinformation on opening and closing dates, bag limits and possessionlimits. The Northwest Oregon Permit Goose season protects duskyCanada goose populations while allowing harvest of more numeroussubspecies. The department is asking hunters to refrain frompurposely shooting any dusky Canada goose due to the long-termpopulation decline and this year’s population survey in Alaska thatwas the lowest on record. Please remember to call 1-800-708-1782before each hunting trip in the Northwest Oregon Permit Goose zoneto for updated information on possible quota closures.
FURBEARER trappers and hunters should be getting out in thefield. Bobcat, gray fox, red fox, marten, muskrat, mink, raccoon,river otter and beaver trapping and/or hunting is currently open.Trappers are reminded that waters within the exterior boundaries ofthe Mt. Hood National Forest are closed to beaver trapping (seepage 2 of the Oregon Furbearer Trapping and Hunting Regulations).Furbearer hunters can use a variety of sounds from their mouth orelectronic calls to lure bobcat, fox, coyote or raccoon out intothe open. Remember to keep the volume low when you start to avoidscaring any animals near your stand, then increase the volume.Paired coyotes will become more territorial as their Februarybreeding season approaches and hunters should typically see morethan one coyote respond to their calling. Hunters should startexperimenting with coyote vocalization sounds such as challenge andinterrogation howls to have the best chance of success.
SAUVIE ISLAND WILDLIFE AREA
Waterfowl hunting on SIWA ends Jan. 31 at 4 p.m.
See Sauvie Island harvest statistics and the regulations forinformation on how to obtain a waterfowl hunting permit.
.
Goose hunting is now closed for the 2009-2010 season because theWildlife Area’s harvest quota of three dusky Canada geese has beenachieved. Dusky geese numbers have dwindled in recent year, andthese birds are protected under the multi-jurisdictional PacificFlyway Management Plan.
The goose season closure does not affect the duck huntingseason, which continues at SIWA.
Hunters had another poor week of waterfowl hunting. The EastsideUnits produced an average hunter success of 1.0 birds per hunter(bph), and the Westside Units produced an average of 1.1 bph for anoverall success rate on the Wildlife area of 1.1 bph.
FERN RIDGE WILDLIFE AREA
Remaining bird hunting seasons close Jan. 31.
Reservation waterfowl hunt continues on a Wednesday, Saturdayschedule.Hunters are checked in two hours before sunrise on eachday of the hunt.Ice has melted from the recent cold snap and birdsreturned to the area once open water was available.
Access regulations for five units at Fern Ridge Wildlife Areachange concurrent with hunt season dates. Visitors are advised tocarefully read posted signs and consult game bird regulationsbefore entering the wildlife area. The Fisher Butte and RoyalAmazon units are open to hunting 7-days/week during duck seasonwith hunting ending at 1 p.m. each day. These units are closed toall public use at 2:00 PM each day to provide wildlife sanctuary.The Kirk Park unit remains open to public use daily year-round,however during duck season, hunting is only authorized onSaturdays, Sundays, Wednesdays, and holidays. Free daily huntpermits are required for hunting in these five units. The permitsare available on-site at area parking lots.
All other units at Fern Ridge lake and wildlife area are open tohunting daily according to authorized seasons and posted accessrestrictions (for example hunting is not allowed in designated parkareas or administrative areas near Fern Ridge dam).
Hunters are reminded that the entire Fern Ridge area is closedto goose hunting during the general season and NW Oregon GoosePermit Zone hunts.
A new rule in place this year encourages hunters to pack out alllitter, including spent shotgun shell casings. We appreciate youreffort to keep the area clean and presentable for all visitors.
Parking areas are located along Highway 126, Nielson Road,Cantrell Road, Territorial Highway, and Clear Lake Road.Visitorsare cautioned that there have been recent vehicle break-ins at areaparking lots. Please secure your valuables before leaving yourvehicle unattended. Contact the wildlife area headquarters, (541)935-2591 if you have any questions.
EE WILSON WILDLIFE AREA
Open for duck hunting only (no goose hunting) through Jan. 31.Rabbit hunting continues to be good, especially if you have a dogthat can flush the rabbits out of the brush (i.e. beagle). Forhunters with a 600 series Willamette deer tag, deer are still beingseen around the area. EE Wilson will host a rabbit hunt fordisabled hunters on Feb 6 and a youth rabbit hunt on Feb 20 &21.
WILLAMETTE ZONE VIEWING
EE Wilson Wildlife Area
Waterfowl numbers are beginning to build as ponds areaccumulating water. A waterfowl blind is available tophotographers. Call the office at 541-745-5334 to reserve theblind. From Albany, take Highway 20 toward Corvallis and after 5miles turn right on Independence Highway. Go 3 miles and turn lefton Camp Adair Road, then proceed 2 miles to the wildlife area. Finddirections to EE Wilson Wildlife Area. 12/1/09
Fern Ridge Wildlife Area
Fern Ridge Reservoir has extensive wildlife habitat that can beaccessed from many access points including Royal Avenue whichextends from west Eugene to the reservoir and ends at a gatedaccess point. This is an excellent place to observe wildlife. Alsoaccessible from this access point are natural prairie habitats (tothe north and south) that are very rare in the Willamette Valley.In addition to the abundance of waterfowl, many raptors can be seenin this area. Look for short eared owls and peregrine falcons. Alsovisible from this area are wading birds, such as egrets and heronsand various shorebirds.
Wintering concentrations of waterfowl and migrant shorebirds canbe observed on the lake and surrounding mudflatsandwetlands.Several thousand Canada geese use Fern Ridge Lake foran evening roost site and thesunset andsunrise departures andarrivals of the large flocks of geese provides an outstandingviewing opportunity.Observant visitors mayalsocatch a glimpse ofblacktail deer and furbearers including beaver and otter, mink,redfox and coyotes.
Royal Avenue and the trail to the Fisher Butte viewing platformremain open all day every day year round. There isasecondelevated viewing platform in the Fisher Butte unitlocated1/4 mile north of the Fisher Butte unitparking lot on Hwy 126.
The majority ofFern RidgeWildlifeArea is opendaily forpublic use providing great wildlife viewing opportunities.Visitorsare reminded there are seasonal access restrictions in placeinfive unitsduring the fall and winter to providewildlifesanctuary.The East and West Coyote units are closed toall public use until the end of January except for a limitedthree-day-per-week reservation waterfowl hunt program.The FisherButte and Royal Amazon units are open daily through the end of duckseason; however the units are closed to hunting at 1 p.m. daily andclosed to all public use at 2 p.m. daily to provide rest periodsfor waterfowl.The Kirk Park unit is open daily for public use andhunting islimited to three days per week plus holidays.12/8/09
Sauvie Island Wildlife Area
34 bald eagles were viewed during the recent mid-winter baldeagle survey on Sauvie Island. Large numbers of sandhill cranes areusing the bottomlands at the end of Oak Island Road. On Tuesdaythere were close to 400 cranes at this location. Most of thewildlife area waters are frozen and waterfowl viewing has beenrather slow. The viewing should return to normal once open waterstarts reappearing. Raptor numbers have increased over the past fewweeks, especially eagle numbers. The best locations to see thesebirds are Coon Point, Rentenaar Road and the Eastside ViewingPlatform.
The Sauvie Island Wildlife Area Eastside units and Westside, OakIsland and North are now closed and will remain so through April30. The trail to Warrior Rock Lighthouse will remain open forhiking and Rentenaar Road, Eastside Viewing Platform and Coon Pointwill remain open for viewing. All areas require a Sauvie IslandWildlife Area Parking Permit.
Sauvie Island Wildlife Area is located on Sauvie Island, only 10miles north of Portland off Highway 30. A parking permit isrequired for the Sauvie Island Wildlife Area and can be purchasedat ODFW License vendors, at the Sauvie Island ODFW office, Mondaythrough Friday during office hours or online. For more information,call (503) 621-3488. Directions to Sauvie Island Wildlife Area.1/20/10.
NORTHWEST ZONE
FISHING
FISHING REPORT
North Coast streams with early returning hatchery steelhead areproviding good angling opportunities. Anglers are encouraged totarget these fish this month while many are still fresh and in goodcondition. The North Fork Nehalem River, Necanicum River, BigCreek, Gnat Creek, Klaskanine River and Three Rivers are allexperiencing good returns. Many of these streams are smaller andstay in fishable condition longer as well.
NORTH COAST LAKES
Trout stocking will resume in March.
Surplus hatchery steelhead have been released in Cape MearesLake, Town Lake, Coffenbury Lake, Lost Lake, and Vernonia Pond.These fish will bite sand shrimp fished under a bobber,medium-sized spinners or spoons, or a variety of flies at times. Bepersistent as these fish are sometimes very finicky.
MID COAST LAKES
Trout stocking will start in February. Check the stocking reportfor specific weeks and lakes to be stocked.
ALSEA RIVER: winter steelhead
Winter steelhead angling is fair to good throughout the river.Boat and bank anglers are catching fish river wide depending onflows. River conditions should be favorable this week. During highwater, anglers should focus on up river areas.
BIG CREEK: steelhead
Winter steelhead fishing has been fair to good. Fish areavailable throughout the stream below the hatchery. A few steelheadwere recycled downstream from Big Creek hatchery recently. Bobberand jig, spinners, or baits drifted along the bottom all willproduce fish.
GNAT CREEK: steelhead
Winter steelhead fishing is fair to good. There is good accessnear the hatchery. Look for pockets of holding water to find fish.Spinners often draw strikes in these areas. Bobber and jig or smallbaits drift fished will produce some fish also. Expect fishing tohold up a couple more weeks.
KILCHIS RIVER: steelhead
Winter steelhead angling is fair. Fish should be spread out.Keep moving to fish fresh fish. Drift fishing is the mostproductive when flows are up. Try bobber and jigs once the waterclears and drops. Side drifting or pulling plugs from boats willproduce fish.
KLASKANINE RIVER AND NORTH FORK KLASKANINE: steelhead
Good numbers of early winter steelhead are available in thesystem. Fishing has improved, with fair to good success lately.Good access is available near the hatchery on the North Fork. Usesmall, subtle lures or bait while flows are clear.
NECANICUM RIVER: steelhead
Winter steelhead angling has been fair to good, depending onwater conditions. Fish are available throughout the river. Fishhave been caught on a variety of methods, but bobber and jigsshould be very effective in clearer water conditions. Boatersshould use caution as there are several obstacles on the lowerriver that may be harder to negotiate as flows drop.
NEHALEM RIVER AND NORTH FORK NEHALEM RIVER: steelhead
Winter steelhead angling has generally been good in the NorthFork Nehalem. Quite a few fish have been caught around thehatchery. Fish are available throughout the river, with bestchances for hatchery fish from Waterhouse Falls downstream.Steelhead are being recycled from Nehalem Hatchery each week.Winter steelhead angling in the mainstem Nehalem should beimproving, but angling conditions have generally been unfavorable.Best opportunities are later in the season.
NESTUCCA RIVER AND THREE RIVERS: steelhead
Steelhead angling should be fair to good. Three Rivers hasproduced the best recently, but the main river is dropping andclearing. Fish are spreading out in the river system. The upperriver will be the first to clear and be fishable. Look for amixture of hatchery and wild fish. Brighter colored lures or baitswill produce best until the river clears. About 200 hatchery wintersteelhead were recycled from Cedar Creek Hatchery recently.
SALMON RIVER: winter steelhead
Native winter steelhead typically return from December throughMarch. Fair to good numbers of wild winter steelhead should returnthis season.
SILETZ RIVER: winter steelhead
Winter steelhead angling is fair to good. Fish are spread outthroughout the river. Boat and bank anglers are producing fish bydrifting bait along the bottom, floating jigs with a bobber orcasting lures.
SIUSLAW RIVER: winter steelhead
Steelhead angling is good. Fish can be found throughout theriver depending on river flows. From Whittaker Creek down on theSiuslaw and mid to lower Lake Creek should have favorable fishingconditions this week.
TILLAMOOK BAY: sturgeon
Angling for sturgeon has been slow. Concentrate on the channeledges on the outgoing tides or the first part of the incoming, withsand shrimp the preferred bait. Move around often to find fish ifyou are not getting bites.
TRASK RIVER: steelhead
Steelhead angling is fair to good. Fish are spread out throughthe river, including the forks. A few hatchery fish have beenshowing in the catch, but more wild fish are beginning to show.
WILSON RIVER: steelhead
Steelhead angling should be good as the river drops into goodshape. The lower river has been slow to clear following rains. Fishhigher in the system first, then lower as the river drops andclears. Use brighter color lures and slightly larger baits whilethe river has some color. Fish will be spread throughout the riversystem. About 50 steelhead were recycled to the lower river lastweek.
YAQUINA RIVER: winter steelhead
Steelhead angling is slowing in Big Elk Creek. This is usuallyan early hatchery run and many fish have moved upstream above theangling deadline. Good catch and release native steelhead fishingshould continue through March.
NORTH COAST HUNTING
OPEN: WATERFOWL (see regulations for dates), FOREST GROUSE,CALIF. & MTN. QUAIL, COUGAR
Bird hunting seasons close Jan. 31.
Use the Oregon Hunting Access Map to see where to hunt.
May 28-30, Becoming an Outdoor-Woman (BOW) 3-day Outdoor SkillsWorkshop, Drift Creek Camp near Lincoln City. More information
Report your hunt results by Jan. 31 for chance to draw a specialtag! Remember, Anyone who purchases a 2009 big game or turkey tagmust report hunt results online or by phone. Reporting is requiredeven if you did not fill your tag or go hunting. Moreinformation
COUGAR are most effectively taken by using predator calls. Lookfor fresh tracks in new-fallen snow to zero in on recent activity.Successful hunters, remember you must check in cougar (hide andskull) at an ODFW office within 10 days of harvest and bring themin unfrozen. It’s also a good idea to prop their mouths open with astick after harvest for easier tissue sampling, teeth collectionand tagging. See regulations for details.
DUCK and MERGANSER season goes through Jan. 31, 2010. There arespecial seasons and/or bag limits on certain species, such asscaup, mallards, pintails, redheads and canvasbacks – please checkthe 2009-10 Oregon Game Bird Regulations for details. The numbersof ducks frequenting the estuaries has dropped off since the midpart of the season, as it usually does this time of year.Additionally, recent storms and high rainfall have driven bird offbays and small coastal lakes to some extent and scattered them toflooded fields and stringer valleys. Be aware of tides and incomingweather when planning your hunt.
NORTHWEST PERMIT GOOSE season is open in Clatsop and TillamookCounties. Geese continue to be plentiful around Tillamook andNehalem Bays and the Little Nestucca Valley, which is open tohunting east of Hwy 101. Unlike with ducks, the number of migratorygeese on the north coast tends to increase as the winterprogresses, so hunting prospects should improve over time. Notice:If you’re hunting the lower Columbia River estuary from a boat,Aldrich Point boat ramp access is closed due to hill slide activityover the county road. Contact Clatsop County Road Department forfurther information.
FOREST GROUSE and MOUNTAIN QUAIL appear to be in decent numbers,but sightings of them has declined within the last two months,which is usual for this time of year. Ruffed grouse occur mainly inmid-slope and riparian areas, whereas blue or sooty grouse aregenerally only at the highest elevations, such as ridge-tops.Mountain quail prefer brushy clearcuts, especially those onsouth-facing slopes in the forest. If you harvest a forest grouse,ODFW is interested in getting samples of wings and the tail forstudies related to the age structure of the population. Many ODFWoffices have wing/tail collection bags available to huntersinterested in assisting in this effort. See page 40 in the 2009-10Oregon Game Bird Regulations for details. The season ends onJanuary 31, 2010.
Although CALIFORNIA QUAIL season is open, the north coast hasvery limited numbers. The season ends on January 31, 2010.
NORTHWEST ZONE VIEWING
Waterfowl
Migratory waterfowl are present all along the north coastalthough recent rains have scattered many of them to flooded fieldsand stringer valleys. “Sea ducks”, including several species ofscoters, long-tailed ducks and harlequins may still be seen alongthe coast, including Netarts Bay, where they can be viewed alongthe eastern edge of the bay from the paved road. Lower estuaryareas and jetties are also good areas to spot these less commonspecies. 1/20/10.
Unusual birds
Unusual birds are occasionally found on north coast beaches, andeven further inland, as a result of winter storms. These situationsare opportunities to find migrants from Asia or pelagic seabirdsthat were blown off course by strong west storms.
Jewel Meadows Wildlife Area, Coast Range
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 9 a.m. to about noon each day. Visitorsshould start near the main viewing area and along Hwy. 202 toobserve larger herds of females and young. The older bulls areusually found near the west viewing area. The Beneke Tract is alsoa good bet if the elk are not out along Hwy. 202. Elk are currentlybeing fed a supplemental diet of alfalfa hay on the wildlife area.Staff tries to feed close to the viewing areas on weekends toenhance viewing opportunities. Reservations for the winter elkfeeding tours have been completely filled for the three-monthseason. 12/8/09
Newport Area
The trail behind the Mark O. Hatfield Marine Science Center inNewport is a good place to observe shorebirds and waterfowl in theYaquina estuary.
Tillamook Area
In addition to the variety of divers mentioned previously, anoccasional winter visitor has been spotted recently along the oceanshore. Snowy owls from the arctic will appear on the beaches somewinters; usually perched in driftwood and on the lookout forrodents along the dune edge. The snowy is much larger than even ourlarge local owls and much more conspicuous, being mostly white andout in the open during daylight hours. Snowy owls that end up onthe Oregon coast are almost always young-of-the-year or juveniles,rather than adult birds which remain further north. 12/31/09
Three Arch Rocks National Wildlife Refuge west of Oceanside isalways home to some type of viewable wildlife as well as being aprime spot for winter storm watching. Long gone are the thousandsof nesting murres, puffins and auklets. During the winter months,bald eagles and peregrine falcons are common on the rocks, as are asmattering of pelicans, cormorants and gulls. Pelagic seabirdsblown near shore by storms are occasionally present, as well.1/20/10
SOUTHWEST ZONE
FISHING
Weekend opportunities:
* Steelhead are being caught throughout the Rogue River.
* Trout anglers should find some good fishing on several arealakes and reservoirs including Lake Selmac, Lost Creek Reservoirand several Coos County lakes such as Empire and Bradley.
* Clamming enthusiasts will want to take advantage of some goodafternoon negative tides this week.
If your favorite fishing spot is no longer listed
It’s probably because that river, lake or reservoir is closedfor the season, inaccessible due to snow and bad roads, or offerslimited fishing opportunities during the winter months. Thesewaterbodies will re-appear in the Recreation Report when theyre-open next spring, or when access and/or opportunity improve.
AGATE LAKE: trout, largemouth bass, black crappie
Agate Lake was stocked this fall with 500 large and 150 trophyrainbow trout. The fish should provide a family fun fishingopportunity throughout the fall. Bank fishing is available in thereservoir drawdown zone. The water level is low, but small boatsmay be launched from the ramp.
APPLEGATE RESERVOIR: trout, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass
Trout and bass fishing has been slow. Some boat anglers havebeen having luck trolling spinners. Bank anglers are catching fishon night crawlers with a small red egg on the hook.
Water level at Applegate Reservoir is 1894 feet as of Jan. 25.The French Gulch boat ramp is open. The lake is starting to filland boat ramp conditions at French Gulch are improving. Dailyreservoir level in feet above sea level can be obtained by calling1-800-472-2434.
APPLEGATE RIVER: steelhead, rainbow trout
Fly-fishing with egg patters or casting small lures can besuccessful for steelhead. A few anglers have reported catching andreleasing steelhead below the town of Applegate. Wild fish must bereleased unharmed.
Flows out of the reservoir were 352 cfs on January 25.
Applegate River flows at Wilderville
ARIZONA POND: rainbow trout
Located approximately half way between Gold Beach and PortOrford, Arizona Pond is an excellent place to take kids troutfishing. The best time to fish is in the morning or evening whenthe fish are actively feeding. Flies, spinners, or a worm under abobber all work really well. Angling is limited to youth 17 andunder.
BEN IRVING RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, bass
Ben Irving Reservoir, west of Winston, was stocked in 2009 with5,000 trout, of which 1,000 were stocked at 1.5-2 lbs. It willstart being stocked in 2010 in early March.
CHETCO RIVER: steelhead
Steelhead fishing has been hit and miss depending on whether youare fishing from a boat or on the bank and the weather. Until flowsstart to moderate and stay consistently below 4000 cfs, bankangling will out produce drift boats. Anglers should always checkthe flows before heading out. Bank anglers can start catching fisharound 8000 cfs and dropping, but boat anglers will want to waituntil flows hit 4000 cfs and dropping.
Chetco River flows near Brookings
COOPER CREEK RESERVOIR: rainbow trout
Cooper Creek was stocked in 2009 with about 11,050 trout todate, of which 2,000 were 1.5-2 lbs each. Cooper Creek will bestocked for 2010 starting in early February.
COOS COUNTY LAKES: rainbow trout
Fishing pressure for trout is very low but fishing is good atEmpire Lakes, Bradley Lake, Powers Pond, Saunders Lake, TenmileLakes, and Butterfield Lake. In Tenmile Lakes, rainbow trout over20 inches are considered steelhead until after April 30. Trout arebiting PowerBait, spinners and small streamers. Trout stocking willbegin this spring for the Coos County lakes.
COOS RIVER BASIN: winter steelhead, Dungeness crab, clams
Fishing for steelhead on the East Fork Millicoma was good thispast week near Nesika Park even though the water was low and fairlyclear. Fishing on the West Fork Millicoma and South Coos River wasfair this past week. Steelhead have been biting on eggs, sandshrimp, corkies, jigs or yarn egg. Fishing is usually best when thewater has been up and starting to drop. The West Fork Millicoma isthe first river to clear after a rain followed by the East ForkMillicoma and then South Coos River. Access to the South Coos Riverabove Dellwood is by permit from Weyerhaeuser Company, and issubject to their rules. Anglers can call the Weyerhaeuser hotlinenumber at 1-888-741-5403 for recorded information on access andpermit purchases.
There are good afternoon negative tides for clamming this week.For more information on shellfish in Coos Bay click on thefollowing link: Shellfish Assessment of Coastal Oregon. Before anyshellfish harvest trip, make sure to check the Oregon Department ofa*griculture website for any recent shellfish closures recentshellfish closures athttp://oregon.gov/ODA/FSD/shellfish_status.shtml.
Recreational crab harvest inside the bay remains good for thosewith boats and decent for those crabbing from the docks. Red rockcrabs are the main harvest at the Charleston and Empire docks butthere are also a few legal Dungeness crabs being harvested as well.The best baits to use are fish, chicken, or turkey legs.
COQUILLE RIVER BASIN: winter steelhead
Steelhead fishing on the North Fork and East Fork Coquillerivers was slow this past week due to lower, clear water. Plunkingwas the most effective technique this past week on the South ForkCoquille River because of the higher, muddy water. There is goodbank fishing access on the North Fork at LaVerne Park and on theSouth Fork Coquille at access points from Broadbent to Powers.
DIAMOND LAKE: rainbow trout
Diamond Lake is closed for angling from Nov. 1, 2009 until April24, 2010. The area is still open for other winter sports. ContactDiamond Lake Resort or the Forest Service for additionalinformation.
ELK/SIXES RIVER: steelhead
Steelhead fishing should improve late this week as flows startto stabilize. The best river height for Elk River is 5.0 feet anddropping. Anglers can check river height and color of Elk River bycalling Elk River Hatchery (541)332-0405.
EMIGRANT RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, largemouth bass, smallmouthbass, crappie
Trout and bass fishing have been slow. A few bank anglersfishing near the dam have been catching trout on PowerBait.Trolling with wedding rings spliced with worms can also producefish.
Anglers should be aware that a health advisory has been issuedrecommending limits on consumption of all fish from Emigrant exceptrainbow trout. Information on the Emigrant Reservoir advisory,along with general information on mercury and fish can be found onthe DHS Web site.
EXPO POND: rainbow trout, largemouth bass, crappie,bluegill
Expo Pond was stocked this fall with 250 large and 100trophy-sized rainbow trout. This should provide some excellentfishing opportunities this winter. Trout anglers should try fishingwith worms, PowerBait, and spinners.
FISH LAKE: rainbow trout
Ice fishing for trout has been fair near the Forest Service boatramp. Anglers should be prepared for winter conditions and varyinglevels of ice coverage.
FLORAS LAKE: rainbow trout, cutthroat trout
Slow.
GALESVILLE RESERVIOR: rainbow trout, bass
Galesville Reservoir is open to angling year-round. Thereservoir was recently stocked with about 5,000 adipose-clippedhatchery coho that should be catchable size this summer. InGalesville Reservoir, all landlocked salmon are considered trout.Thus, there is a five per day trout limit, with only one trout over20 inches in length allowed for harvest. About 8,000 trout werestocked in 2009, and stocking for 2010 will begin in early March.Anglers are reminded all bass between 12 and 15 inches must bereleased, and only one bass over 15 inches may be taken per day.Galesville now has a campground. Call 541-837-3302 for informationon camping and boat launching conditions.
GARRISON LAKE: rainbow trout, cutthroat trout
The best way to fish is by boat, but there is some bank accessat the State Park. Fly fishing or slow trolling wedding ringspinners are regular producers for trout. Anglers should keep aneye on the weather as the lake can be very windy.
HEMLOCK LAKE & LAKE OF THE WOODS: trout
The road to these lakes is not plowed during the winter so checklocal road conditions.
HERBERT’S POND: rainbow trout, warmwater fish
Herbert’s Pond is a small pond just east of Canyonville onTiller Highway. The pond has a good warm water fishery for kidsincluding bluegill, crappie, and bass. The pond has very good bankaccess. Angling is slow.
HOWARD PRAIRIE RESERVOIR: trout, bass
Howard Prairie Reservoir is closed to fishing. It will openagain on April 24.
HYATT LAKE: trout, bass
Hyatt Lake is closed to fishing. It will open again on April24.
ILLINOIS RIVER: trout, steelhead
The Illinois River is open for steelhead and adipose fin-clippedtrout Jan 1–Mar 31 and May 23-Dec 31. Angling is restricted toartificial flies and lures only. Non-adipose fin-clipped rainbowtrout, steelhead and cutthroat trout must be released unharmed andshould not be removed from the water.
Beginning Jan. 1 in the mainstem Illinois River from theconfluence with Briggs Creek upstream to Pomeroy Dam, non-adiposefin-clipped (wild) steelhead at least 24 inches in length may bekept, one per day, five per year, as part of the daily or annualsteelhead/salmon catch limit.
Anglers should try to fish the Illinois with small spoons whileflows are dropping.
Illinois River flows at Kerby
LAKE MARIE: rainbow trout
Lake Marie is at Umpqua Lighthouse State Park near Winchester.About 4,000 trout were stocked during 2009. Lake Marie receivedabout 400 lunker trout (1lb+) just before Labor Day weekend. Thelake will be stocked again in March.
LAKE SELMAC: trout, largemouth bass, bluegill, and crappie
Anglers have been catching fish using nightcrawlers and Pautzkeegg. Casting with spinners has been effective on sunny afternoons.Try little cleos or #4 Panther Martins.
LEMOLO RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, brown trout
Lemolo is closed to angling from Nov. 1, 2009 until April 24,2010. The area is still open for other winter recreation. Contactthe resort or Forest Service for additional information.
LOON LAKE: rainbow trout, bass
Loon Lake was stocked with 8,000 trout in 2009. The lake wasalso stocked with some fingerlings so anglers should remember torelease trout less than 8 inches long. Loon Lake will start 2010stockings in early March. Currently both the BLM campground andresort boat ramps are closed.
LOST CREEK RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, largemouth bass, smallmouthbass
Fishing has been fair for bank anglers along the dam and boatanglers have been successful upstream of Peyton Bridge. Anglersshould try trolling slowly at different depths with wedding ringswith worms; flashers and rooster tails have also been catchingfish. Some limits of rainbows are being caught. Bank anglers shoulddo well using PowerBait, worms and salmon eggs.
PACIFIC OCEAN AND BEACHES: bottomfish, surfperch, Dunganesscrab
When the ocean has been “calm” fishing for rockfish, greenlingand lingcod has been good. Fishing from shore for rockfish andgreenling has been decent. Concentrate your fishing near rockyoutcroppings and drop-offs.
Surfperch fishing should be good using sand shrimp or sandworms. Fish sandy beaches when the ocean swells are smaller (10feet or less). Best fishing is typically on the incoming tides.
PLAT I RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, warmwater game fish
Bass fishing at Plat I is catch-and-release only from Nov. 1,2009 through Feb. 28, 2010. Plat I was stocked with 4,500 trout in2009. Stocking in 2010 will begin in March.
REINHART POND: rainbow trout, warm water fish
Reinhart Park Pond was stocked this fall with 100 large and 50trophy trout. Fishing should be good.
ROGUE RIVER, LOWER: winter steelhead
Steelhead fishing was good over the weekend as numeroussteelhead were caught by bank anglers. Public bank access is reallygood on the Lower Rogue from Quosatana Creek campground to the oldMill Site just above tidewater. Boat anglers can launch their boatsat the Port of Gold Beach, Lobster or Quosatana Creek campgrounds.Some of the best methods are plunking a spin and glow from the bankor running plugs from a boat on the inside corners of theriver.
Rogue River flows
ROGUE RIVER, MIDDLE: steelhead
Some winter steelhead have been caught in the Grants Pass areaon yarn balls. Side drifted roe and back-trolled plugs are alsocatching fish. The river below Hog Creek is open for non-adiposefin-clipped (wild) steelhead but upstream of Hog Creek wild fishmust be released. Beginning February 1, the river above Hog Creekwill also be open for wild steelhead at least 24 inches in length.The flow at Grants Pass on Jan. 25 was 3128 cfs.
ROGUE RIVER, UPPER: steelhead
Steelhead are biting on nightcrawlers. Roe, puffballs, and plugsare also producing fish. As of Jan. 24, a total of 2472 wintersteelhead and 2958 coho have been counted at Gold Ray Dam.
On Jan 25, the flow out of Lost Creek Reservoir was 1190 cfs andthe flows at Gold Ray were 2489 cfs.
Anglers are reminded that even during high water and turbidconditions along most of the Rogue, conditions are usually goodbetween Big Butte Creek and Cole Rivers Hatchery where reservoiroutflows predominate.
ROGUE RIVER, ABOVE LOST CREEK RESERVOIR: trout
The Rogue River above Lost Creek Reservoir is closed to fishing.It will open again on April 24.
SODA SPRINGS RESERVOIR: brown and rainbow trout
Open year round for trout fishing. The North Umpqua mainstem andthe tributaries upstream of Soda Springs Reservoir close to troutfishing from Nov. 1, 2009 until April 24, 2010.
SMITH RIVER: striped bass, trout, fall chinook, steelhead
Open for adipose fin-clipped steelhead and chinook from mouth toSpencer Creek and North Fork from mouth upstream to Johnson Creek.This area is also open to striped bass year-round, two fish per 24hours, 24-inch minimum size. Fishing is also open for fin-clippedsteelhead on the Mainstem Smith from Spencer Creek upstream toSisters Creek and the North Fork from Johnson Creek to bridge 10through April 30.
SOUTH COAST STREAMS: trout
Trout season in the Umpqua tributaries, Smith River, SouthUmpqua, North Umpqua tributaries below Soda Springs Reservoir andCow Creek basins closed Sept. 16. The mainstem Umpqua and mainstemNorth Umpqua to ½ mile downstream from Soda Springs Dam are openyear-round for catch and release trout.
TENMILE CREEK/EEL CREEK: steelhead
Fishing for steelhead in Tenmile Creek was decent this pastweek. Fishing near the acclimation sites (mouth of Saunders Creekand mouth of Eel Creek) have produced the most fishing action. Afew steelhead have been caught in Eel Creek also. We are expectinga good return of steelhead (hatchery and wild) to Tenmile and Eelcreeks this year.
TOKETEE LAKE: brown trout
Fishing is open in Toketee year-round. The lake has both goodbank and boat access throughout. Fishing is slow.
UMPQUA ESTUARY: sturgeon, bass, chinook
Both sturgeon and striped bass fishing have been slow in thelower Umpqua. Crabbing has been good. Sturgeon fishing tends toimprove in February and March. Check with the Coast Guard for newdeadlines in the lower Umpqua when the bar is closed(541-271-4847).
UMPQUA HIGH LAKES AND FOREBAYS: trout
Clearwater Forebay #2 was stocked with over 4,000 trout in 2009.Other high lakes including Maidu, Bull Pup, Connie, Skookum (N.Umpqua), Calamut, Fuller, Wolf, Cliff, Buckeye, Linda, and Big TwinLakes were stocked with fingerling brook trout in 2008. Brook troutstocked in 2008 are about 6-10 inches now in most lakes. In 2009,all lakes were again stocked with brook trout except Linda andCalamut which were stocked with rainbow trout fingerlings. Thesehigh lakes will remain open until snow closes the roads.
UMPQUA RIVER MAINSTEM: steelhead, coho
Umpqua Basin Note:
The number of hatchery winter steelhead will start improvingthis winter. The number of 2-salt winter steelhead will still berelatively low due to rearing loses at the hatchery. However, thenumber of 1-salt hatchery steelhead will be about normal since over90,000 South Umpqua hatchery steelhead were released in 2009.Angling opportunity and catch rates throughout the basin will alsobe good due to the strong wild steelhead population; however, onlyhatchery steelhead can be harvested.
Mainstem: steelhead
Remember the main stem Umpqua is closed to wild steelheadharvest, but remains open year-round for adipose fin-clippedsteelhead. The recent warm rain helped move the steelheadthroughout the basin. Angling has been good recently in the lowermainstem for catching and releasing wild steelhead. Please reportanybody harvesting wild steelhead.
Umpqua River flows near Elkton
UMPQUA RIVER, NORTH: steelhead
Remember that only adipose fin-clipped steelhead can beharvested on the North Umpqua. Fishing has been slow in the flywater and fair down lower. With the recent warm rains, the watertemperature has warmed up a little so the steelhead should be moreactive. The North is open to catch-and-release trout fishing fromthe mouth upstream to Soda Springs Dam.
North Umpqua River water levels at Winchester Dam
UMPQUA RIVER, SOUTH: steelhead
The South Umpqua opened for winter steelhead on Dec. 1. Fishingis good and steelhead are being caught from Canyonville down toRiver Forks. Hatchery fish are already being caught in theCanyonville area by boat and bank anglers. The number of hatcherysteelhead should start improving this winter. Last year 91,000hatchery smolts were released and this year over 100,000 smoltsshould be released. From 1999 - 2006, the South Umpqua hatcheryprogram released an average of 83,000 smolts. Most Umpqua steelheadcome back as 2-salt fish, so while fishing for one-salt hatcheryfish will be average, fishing for hatchery fish will improve evenmore in 2011 and 2012. Only adipose fin-clipped steelhead can beharvested.
South Umpqua River water levels near Riddle
WILLOW LAKE: rainbow trout, largemouth bass, crappie, yellowperch, bullhead
Anglers should try using floating bait or worms. Casting luresor flies can also be effective. Fishing has been slow.
WINCHESTER BAY: sturgeon, coho, rockfish
Fishing for sturgeon is slow. Crabbing has been good lately.Fishing for rockfish at the South Jetty has also been productive.Check with the Coast Guard for new deadlines in the lower Umpquawhen the bar is closed (541-271-4847).
WINCHUCK RIVER: steelhead
The Winchuck is one of those rivers that clears several daysearlier than other rivers after a storm. Public access is limitedin the lower river, but there is plenty of opportunity on ForestService property in the upper river. Anglers will want to check theregulations prior to fishing as there are deadlines and anglingrestrictions.
OREGON COAST
Always check for health advisories by calling the OregonDepartment of Agriculture’s Shellfish line at 1-800-448-2474 forupdates.
Razor clams and current status of particular areas
Crabbing has been good. Crabbing from public docks or boat ifavailable is a great opportunity for families to catch a deliciousdinner. Kids often enjoy sorting out the smaller crab that can beabundant. Public crabbing docks can be found in Winchester Bay,Bandon, Charleston, and Empire.
Clamming. The Oregon Department of Agriculture has openedcoastal bays along the Oregon Coast to recreational clam harvest.Mussel harvesting, from the mouth of the Columbia River closedsouth of Bastendorf Beach near Charleston to the California borderbecause of elevated levels of paralytic shellfish toxins. Theclosure of mussel harvesting north of Bastendorf Beach north to theColumbia River is now open.
Before any shellfish harvest trip, make sure to check the OregonDepartment of Agriculture website for any recent shellfish closuresrecent shellfish closures at:http://oregon.gov/ODA/FSD/shellfish_status.shtml.
ALWAYS CHECK FOR HEALTH ADVISORIES by calling the OregonDepartment of Agriculture’s Shellfish line at 1-800-448-2474 forupdates.
* Razor clams and current status of particular areas
* Bay clams
* ALWAYS CHECK FOR HEALTH ADVISORIES by calling the OregonDepartment of Agriculture’s Shellfish line at 1-800-448-2474 forupdates.
SOUTHWEST ZONE HUNTING
OPEN: WATERFOWL, FOREST GROUSE, CALIF. QUAIL (all bird seasonsclose Jan. 31) COUGAR
Use the Oregon Hunting Access Map to see where to hunt.
EVENTS
May 22, Youth Oregon Hunter Day, Denman Wildlife Area (CentralPoint). Children of all ages can try archery, shotgun skillstraining, fishing, laser shot, and hot air balloon rides. Equipmentprovided. Free. For more information call Vince Oredson phone:(541) 826-8774. More information
Report your hunt results by Jan. 31 for chance to draw specialbig game tag. Anyone who purchases a 2009 big game or turkey tagmust report hunt results online or by phone—even if you did notfill your tag or go hunting. More information
DOUGLAS COUNTY
BIG GAME:
Elk - A few controlled hunts are open. Elk populations aresimilar to last year.
Cougar –Cougar season is currently open. Hunting cougar is mostsuccessful adjacent to private land with high deer populations.
UPLAND GAMEBIRDS: The season ends for grouse and quail onJanuary 31, 2010.
MIGRATORY GAMEBIRDS:
Crow –The season ends for crow on January 31, 2010.
WATERFOWL:
The season ends for waterfowl on January 31, 2010.
TRAPPING & HUNTING:
Furbearers – A reminder to trappers and hunters that specificlicenses and tags are required to hunt many furbearer species, andhunters should refer to the Oregon Furbearer Trapping and HuntingRegulations for details.
Bobcat & Gray Fox – Currently open. Healthy populationsthroughout Western Oregon.
River Otter, Beaver & Raccoon – Currently open. Healthypopulations throughout Western Oregon. The last day of the seasonfor these species is March 15, 2010.
Mink & Muskrat – Currently open. Healthy populationsthroughout Western Oregon. The last day of the season for mink andmuskrat is March 31, 2010.
Marten –The last day of the season is January 31, 2010.
COOS COUNTY
WATERFOWL
Recent rain has flooded many rivers and basins in recent daysthis causes waterfowl to move from local bays to in-land valleys.While there are enough waterfowl in local bays the best huntingwill now be found along river courses and in flooded agriculturalfields. Access to private land can be an issue but courteoushunters can find places to hunt on some private property if theyask landowners. Those hunters who want to hunt bays will findducks but in smaller numbers that they may have in the earlier partof the season. Season closes Jan. 31.
FOREST GROUSE and MOUNTAIN QUAIL seasons are open through Jan.31. Now that big game seasons are over with the exception of a fewantlerless elk hunts it is a good time for hunting quail andgrouse. Numbers of both are good this year. Mountain quail will bemost numerous near ridge tops on the sunny side. Ruffed grouse canalso be found in good numbers. They will likely be scattered acrossslopes. Since deciduous trees have lost their leaves flushing birdsshould be easier to get a shot on. Hunters are asked to save onewing and tails of grouse they kill and turn these in to ODFWoffices. These are used to determine sex, age and species of birdsthey kill, which provides important management information.
Other hunting opportunities are available for furbearers andother animals with fur value like coyotes. There are specificlicense and tag requirements for hunting some of these animals.Contact your local ODFW office for details.
COYOTE populations are good in Coos County and they will respondto calls. However, calling coyotes on the coast range ischallenging due to brush.
Bobcat populations are also healthy in Coos County. They are oneof the furbearers that require specific tags and licenses to hunt.Bobcats respond well to calls but are generally slower to showthemselves than coyotes.
JACKSON, JOSEPHINE, CURRY COUNTIES
A few select ELK controlled hunts are open. These hunts are tofocus on elk in low elevation mostly on private lands dealing withdamage.
WATERFOWL: Season is open for both ducks and geese through Jan.31. Enough rain has now fallen for the ponds on Denman to be fulland with some good storms over the holidays several hunters wereable to fill bag limits. Hunting will continue to be good accordingto weather conditions. Many ponds exist in the Rogue valleyalthough most are on private lands; hunters need to ask forpermission.
SNIPE is another challenging bird to hunt for they are small,fast and erratic low-flying birds that can be hard to identify. Besure to know how to differentiate it from killdeer and othershorebirds before you hunt. Snipe may be spooked in areas wherethere are high numbers of hunters but other times a person can walkup on them. Snipe almost always emit a call when they take off inflight. Now is the best time to hunt snipe. Denman Wildlife Areahas decent numbers of snipe.
UPLAND GAME BIRDS season ends January 31. New license isrequired for the New Year. Both mountain quail and forest grousenumbers appear to be average with hunters expecting to have a fairharvest. During winter months snow can add greatly to scouting outareas where birds are found. Forest grouse can be found in timberedcreek draws and mountain quail will be found in brushy clear cutsnear water. A good bird dog will aid greatly in bird retrieval.
COUGAR general season continues. For 2010 a general statewideseason will occur where the cougar tag will be active throughoutthe state for the complete year or until zone quotas are met. Referto regulations for more information. Due to the nature of cougars,hunters find it hard to locate cougars without locating preyanimals and the use of predator calls. Locate major ridge lineswhere cougars travel looking for deer. Hunters are also remindedthat they must bring their cougar into an ODFW office within 10days to be checked and tagged, refer to regulations fordetails.
COYOTES are abundant in our area. Hunter can find coyotes aroundmeadows and brush piles where mice and rabbits are found. Predatorcalls are very useful when used in conjunction to known preybase.
WESTERN GRAY SQUIRREL season is only open in a select area ofthe Rogue unit; refer to the regulations for more detail. Much ofthis area has high numbers of squirrels. This is a great animal tohunt for first time hunters.
TRAPPING & HUNTING:
Furbearers – A reminder to trappers and hunters that specificlicenses and tags are required to hunt many furbearer species, andhunters should refer to the 2008-10 Oregon Furbearer Trapping andHunting Regulations for details.
Bobcat –Harvest season is open.
River Otter, Beaver, Mink/Muskrat, Gray Fox & Raccoon –Harvest season for these listed animals opened Nov. 15. WesternOregon populations are healthy with gray fox and raccoons slightlyhigher than normal. Pursuit season is currently open for fox andraccoon.
Marten – Good populations at higher elevations of the Cascades.The season is currently open.
SOUTHWEST ZONE VIEWING
TAX TIME
When completing your taxes for calendar year 2009 don’t forgetto make your donation for the nongame tax check-off on your Oregonreturn.
Douglas County
Peregrine Falcons
Peregrine Falcons are now commonly seen on the Umpqua Valleyfloor especially near Melrose, Lookinglass, Umpqua and other openareas close to the Umpqua River.
Songbirds
Winter songbirds including Western Bluebirds can be seen atStewart Park and Stewart Park trail in Roseburg. Viewing is bestin the late morning to early afternoon. 1/20/09.
Jackson County
Bald Eagles
Areas along the Rogue River are favorite places to find BaldEagles. Two young Bald Eagles were spotted off of Hwy 234 aroundthe 10-mile marker.
Tundra Swans
Ten Tundra Swans are using the area ponds around Sams Valley.1/20/09.
CENTRAL ZONE
FISHING
If your favorite fishing spot is no longer listed
It’s probably because that river, lake or reservoir is closedfor the season, inaccessible due to snow and bad roads, or offerslimited fishing opportunities during the winter months. Thesewaterbodies will re-appear in the Recreation Report when theyre-open next spring, or when access and/or opportunity improve.
ANTELOPE FLAT RESERVOIR:
Closed to angling through May 21, 2010. The reservoir will berestocked with catchable rainbow trout in May of 2010.
CRESCENT LAKE: rainbow trout, brown trout, lake trout andkokanee
December can provide good opportunity for lake trout and browntrout at Crescent though access may be limited by snow.
CROOKED RIVER BELOW BOWMAN DAM: redband trout and mountainwhitefish
Flows are remaining steady around 70 cfs. Fishing was slow withfrigid December temperatures, but may improve with the warm weatherwe are currently experiencing. Please use extreme caution whenwading during the cold winter months.
All anglers should visit informational kiosks located in the BLMcampgrounds in the Wild and Scenic portion of the river where aflier has been posted to assist anglers in collecting valuableinformation. ODFW and OSU initiated a radio telemetry study onredband trout and whitefish in the fall of 2007. ODFW and OSUdeployed new radio-tags in early October in fish caught bydedicated volunteer anglers from the Central Oregon Fly Fishers,Sunriver Anglers, ODFW, and OSU. Anglers are reminded thatradio-tagged fish cannot be legally harvested. To determine if afish is radio-tagged, anglers should check for an eight-inch wireantenna protruding from the rear of both redband and mountainwhitefish. A sample of redband trout and mountain whitefish arealso tagged with a numbered floy tag protruding from the back.Anglers who later catch a trout or whitefish with a floy tag areencouraged to release the fish after recording the tag number, fishlength and location caught. Anglers can send the information toODFW at (541) 447-5111 ext. 24 ormichael.r.harrington@state.or.us.
DESCHUTES RIVER: steelhead, rainbow trout
Mouth to the Northern Boundary of the Warm Springs Reservation:steelhead, trout,
The Deschutes River upstream of the northern border of the WarmSprings Indian Reservation closed to sport anglers Dec. 31,2009.
The Deschutes River will remain open to angling for steelheadand trout from the mouth upstream to the northern border of theWarm Springs Indian Reservation. Anglers that brave the cold canstill expect active steelhead and trout in the area from Maupinupstream to the reservation boundary. Winter is a great time to seethe Deschutes canyon. Trout anglers going deep with large nymphsmight catch a steelhead as well.
Anglers who catch a tagged hatchery steelhead with an orangeanchor tag, are encouraged to report catch information to ODFW at541-296-4628 or via the internet athttp://www.dfw.state.or.us/fish/The_Dalles/fish_tag_returns.asp.Anglerscatching a tagged wild fish should release it immediately withoutrecording any information.
Anglers can check the trap the seasons catch at Sherars Falls asan indicator of fish movement in the Deschutes at:http://www.dfw.state.or.us/fish/fish_counts/sherars_falls/index.asp.The trap was removed on Nov. 1 for the season.
Lake Billy Chinook to Benham Falls: rainbow trout, browntrout
No recent reports. The flows are now well-suited for fishing.This reach of the Deschutes provides winter angling opportunity forbrown trout and redband trout. Please note this reach of river isrestricted to the use of flies and lures only.
FALL RIVER: rainbow trout
Fall River above the falls remains open to fly angling only. Norecent angler reports.
HAYSTACK RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, brown trout
The reservoir was stocked in December.
On Oct. 2, the Oregon Department of Human Services lifted theblue green advisory on Haystack Reservoir. To find out more aboutthe advisory and recommended precautions, please go to the DHS Website.
HOOD RIVER: summer steelhead
High flows have subsided to clear visibility on the Hood River.Some bright winter steelhead are being reported. Fishing will onlyget better as the winter progresses.
Find out how many fish are being captured at the Powerdale Damtrap.
HORSESHOE LAKE: rainbow trout
Horseshoe has been recently stocked and should offer goodopportunity for legal and trophy-sized trout.
KINGSLEY RESERVOIR: rainbow trout
Along with earlier stocking of legal-sized trout, Kingsley hasreceived many excess summer steelhead that have returned to theHood River. Access may be difficult due to snow and the lake islikely frozen.
LAKE BILLY CHINOOK: bull trout, brown trout, rainbow trout,kokanee, smallmouth bass
No recent reports. The Metolius arm is closed, the remainder ofthe reservoir remains open.
METOLIUS RIVER: redband trout, bull trout
No recent reports. The mainstem Metolius upstream from AllinghamBridge is currently closed to angling.
NORTH TWIN: rainbow trout
No recent fishing reports as angler activity is minimal. Pleasenote North Twin Lake remains open year round though accessibilitymay be limited during the winter months.
OCHOCO CREEK UPSTREAM TO OCHOCO DAM: rainbow trout
Anglers should be aware that beginning in 2010 new fishingregulations go into effect that permanently restricts fishing toartificial flies and lures only; two trout per day and eight-inchminimum length. The Prineville Youth pond now provides anopportunity for children to learn beginning angling practices andharvest fish.
OCHOCO RESERVOIR: rainbow trout
No recent reports.
PINE HOLLOW RESERVOIR: rainbow trout
Pine Hollow has been recently stocked and offers a greatopportunity to catch multiple size classes of trout this winter.No recent reports, but Pine Hollow may have some areas of ice.
PRINEVILLE RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, black crappie, bass
No recent reports. Anglers should consult the 2010 Sport FishingRegulations (page 63) for maximum length requirements and baglimits for both largemouth and smallmouth bass.
PRINEVILLE YOUTH FISHING POND: Rainbow trout and largemouthbass
Ice is unsafe for fishing! The Prineville Youth Fishing Pond isopen to children 14 and younger with a bag limit of five fish.
ROCK CREEK RESERVOIR: rainbow trout
Rock Creek Reservoir low water due to summer and fall irrigationwithdrawals. The lake is likely frozen.
SUTTLE LAKE: brown trout, kokanee
No recent angler reports.
TAYLOR LAKE: rainbow trout
Taylor Lake has been recently stocked with rainbow trout andshould offer a great opportunity to catch trout this winter. Areasof the lake have ice shelves.
WALTON LAKE: rainbow trout
Closed to angling through May 21, 2010. The reservoir will berestocked with catchable rainbow trout in May of 2010.
CENTRAL ZONE HUNTING
OPEN: QUAIL, CHUKAR/HUN, FOREST GROUSE (Hood Rvr and Wascocounties only, WATERFOWL (see regulations), COUGAR
Upland bird and goose seasons close Jan. 31. Zone 2 duck incl.Jefferson, Deschutes, Crook, Wheeler counties closed Jan. 24.
Report your hunt results by Jan. 31 for chance to draw specialbig game tag. Anyone who purchases a 2009 big game or turkey tagmust report hunt results online or by phone—even if you did notfill your tag or go hunting. More information
EVENTS
Central Oregon Sportsman Show, March 11-14, Deschutes CountyFairgrounds, Redmond. Stop by ODFW’s booth to learn about the MuleDeer Initiative and talk to ODFW staff about hunting, fishing andwildlife viewing. Your kids will enjoy our fish tank.
Use the Oregon Hunting Access Map to see where to hunt.
PRINEVILLE/OCHOCO WILDLIFE DISTRICT
GENERAL: Snow is present at higher elevations and recent warmertemperatures and rain have created slippery and muddy conditions.Travel off surfaced roads is not recommended. Be prepared forwinter conditions, including cold temperatures, ice, and snow.Hunters and other outdoor enthusiasts should have cold weathergear, and have their vehicle properly winterized. Winterrestrictions on motorized vehicles are in effect on portions of theOchoco National Forest and Prineville BLM managed lands. Thosefederal agencies should be contacted for maps and furtherinformation (BLM: (541)416-6700, Ochoco Nat. For. (541)416-6500).
COYOTES will be closely associated with deer and antelope onwinter ranges. Both the Maury and Ochoco have sizeable areas ofpublic lands that should provide good hunting opportunities. Areasto consider include BLM lands around the S. Fork. Crooked River,Camp Creek, and Hampton Butte (Maury unit); and mixed USFS/BLMlands along the S. Fork John Day River and Paulina Valley (Ochocounit).
COUGAR are present at all elevations in the Maury, Ochoco, andGrizzly units. Like coyotes, cougar will be attracted to winteringdeer and antelope at lower elevations. Areas to consider includethe Maury Mountains and S. Fork Crooked River in the Maury; N. ForkCrooked River and S. Fork John Day River in the Ochoco; and upperMill, Trout, and Mckay Creeks in the Grizzly unit. Remember cougarsmust be checked in at an ODFW office within 10 days after harvest.Please consult the synopsis for all required parts and be sure tocall first to make an appointment.
CHUKAR: Birds are scattered and hunters are encouraged to checklikely habitat on the Crooked River National Grasslands and thebreaks of the John Day River system. Remember the season closes onJan. 31.
WATERFOWL hunters will find opportunities limited as most birdsin this area are associated with private lands where access may bedifficult. What birds are present are widely scattered due to theice free conditions and open agricultural fields. Duck in zone 2closed Jan. 24 and goose closes Jan. 31.
THE DALLES WILDLIFE DISTRICT
COUGAR season is open. Hunters wishing to pursue cougar willfind best success near areas of deer and elk concentrations, or inthe Deschutes and John Day river canyons. Successful hunters,remember you must check in cougar (hide and skull) and bear skullat an ODFW office within 10 days of harvest and bring them inunfrozen. It’s also a good idea to prop their mouths open with astick after harvest for easier tissue sampling, teeth collectionand tagging. See regulations for details.
Limited public access for WATERFOWL hunting can be found alongthe Columbia and Deschutes Rivers. A fair number of geese are usingarea agricultural fields. Be sure to gain permission to huntprivate lands. Remaining waterfowl seasons closes Jan. 31.
Those wishing to pursue COYOTE will find the best success nearagricultural lands. Be sure to ask permission to hunt privatelands. Limited opportunities may also be found at White RiverWildlife area, and on lower elevation forest service lands.
WHITE RIVER WILDLIFE AREA
Cougar season is open from Jan. 1 to Dec.31 or until zonemortality quotas have been met. Cougar hunting is generally best inareas where deer and elk are wintering. Please be mindful whenhunting near feeding areas to reduce disturbance to winteringwildlife. Look for fresh tracks or kills to increase success.
COYOTE hunters should be looking in open areas along the easternperimeter of the wildlife area. Open fields can provide goodcalling opportunities on the area.
UPLAND BIRD hunters may find a few quail in the bottom landswithin the wildlife area and may find some Mt Quail in the higherelevations. There are a few Chukar and Hungarian partridgescattered through out the wildlife area, but they can be difficultto find. Seasons close Jan. 31.
WATERFOWL hunters can find some ducks and maybe even some geeseon some of the small ponds located on the wildlife area. With thecooler weather there is very little open water. The geese are usingsome of the wheat fields on the area. Seasons close Jan. 31.
The gates to through traffic closed on December 1 and willremain closed till April 1, 2010. Some roads may stay closed tillMay 1 depending on weather and road conditions.
The wildlife area is a vehicle regulated use area. Open roadshave a green dot on them. Hunters bringing their ATVs are remindedthat all vehicles are to stay on roads; cross country travel isprohibited.
CENTRAL ZONE VIEWING
Sherman County and Deschutes Canyon
Lower Deschutes Wildlife Area
Many different species frequent the Deschutes Canyon at thistime of year with opportunities to view a wide variety ofwaterbirds, passerines, deer and bighorn sheep. A comprehensivebird list for the wildlife area can be found at the kiosk inDeschutes River State Park. Bighorn sheep are a common site in thecanyon. One of the most popular spots to view Bighorn sheep is downthe Mack’s Canyon road between the mouth of Jones Canyon and Mack’sCanyon. Good binoculars and a spotting scope will improve the oddsof viewing sheep. 11/24/09
Directions and more information about the Lower DeschutesWildlife Area are on ODFW’s Web site. 11/24/09
Wasco County
The Dalles Area
Wintering Bald eagles are here in good numbers. A pair of eaglescan regularly be seen near the Gorge Discovery Center. There arequite a few birds utilizing the area around Mayer State Park andthe mouth of the Klickitat River.
Wintering deer and elk are a common site throughout the area.Open oak ridges throughout the northern half of the White Riverunit can be great places to find deer and elk out feeding on coldwinter mornings. Be aware that most of these areas are on privateproperty, and respect landowners by staying on the publicroads.
ODFW White River Wildlife Area
Deer and Elk are now in the feeding areas throughout thewildlife area. Visitors to the area can find good viewingopportunities near feed sites. Please be aware that winter is acritical period for wintering wildlife, and disturbance to theseanimals can be reduced by viewing from a distance with a spottingscope and good binoculars.
Visitors can find a variety of bird species on the area. Some ofthe most notable are Lewis’ Woodpeckers, which inhabit the open oakareas throughout the wildlife area and Pileated Woodpeckers, whichcan generally be found near the forest boundary. The area alsohosts a variety of passerines, as well as turkey, quail and a fewwaterfowl.
For more information and directions to the wildlife area, visitODFW’s Web site. 1/26/10.
Jefferson and Crook Counties
Prineville Area
Winter conditions are present and recreational users and theirpets should dress accordingly. Big game have moved onto winterranges and this is an ideal time to see mule deer, antelope, andelk, and coyotes hoping to make a meal of them. At the same timewintering waterfowl are using the open water along the CrookedRiver, and adjacent agricultural fields. The waterfowl have inturn attracted the attention of golden and bald eagles, prairiefalcons, northern harriers, red-tailed hawks, rough-legged hawks,and Swainson’s hawks.
See these animals and enjoy a scenic drive by heading east fromPrineville along the Crooked River to the Paulina Ranger Station.To take this trip drivers will turn south off Highway 26 at theeast end of Prineville onto the Paulina Highway (Hwy 380). Proceedeast on the Paulina Highway through the small communities of Postand Paulina. The better viewing for raptors hunting waterfowl andsmall mammals will be between MP 20 and 50. Approximately 4 mileseast of Paulina proceed north to Paulina Ranger Station using PuettRoad. Pay particular attention during this section for winteringdeer, elk, and pronghorn using the western flanks of PowellMountain visible from Puett Road. This is approximately 180 milesround trip from Prineville, and drivers should be prepared forwinter driving, and a trip which will take 6 – 8 hours. Inaddition to warm clothing, bring binoculars, spotting scope, acamera, snacks, and your favorite warm beverages. Food and fuel isavailable at stores in Post and Paulina. 1/12/10.
SOUTHEAST ZONE
FISHING
If your favorite fishing spot is no longer listed
It’s probably because that river, lake or reservoir is closedfor the season, inaccessible due to snow and bad roads, or offerslimited fishing opportunities during the winter months. These waterbodies will re-appear in the Recreation Report when they re-opennext spring, or when access and/or opportunity improve.
Weekend fishing opportunities:
* Depending on current weather and ice conditions, January andFebruary can be good months for ice fishing. Ice fishing on Unityand Thief Valley reservoirs has been good. Always proceed withcaution and make sure conditions are safe before going on to theice.
ANA RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout, hybrid bass
Ana Reservoir is open year-round for rainbow trout and hybridbass angling. Water temperatures in the reservoir stay fairlyconsistent throughout the year. The reservoir provides goodopportunities for winter angling. The reservoir has been drawn downto allow for maintenance of the diversion structure. The boat rampis currently inaccessible.
ANA RIVER: hatchery rainbow trout
Water temperatures remain stable due to the large amount ofsprings in Ana Reservoir and in the river. Winter conditionsinclude snow, ice, and occasionally mud. Angling can be excellenton the days where the wind doesn’t blow and we have mild daytimetemperatures.
BEULAH RESERVOIR: redband trout, hatchery rainbow trout,whitefish, bull trout
The reservoir is 20 percent full and average inflow was 58 cfson Jan. 24. The pool is covered with ice. Angling in the reservoirand below the dam is poor.
BLITZEN RIVER: trout
Flows remain stable, the discharge measurements at the PageSprings gauge are being affected by ice. No recent angling reportbut angling should be slow for trout. The entire basin is in acatch-and-release mode until next spring.
BULLY CREEK RESERVOIR: bass, white crappie, yellow perch,catfish, and trout.
The reservoir is 31 percent full on Jan 24. The pool is coveredwith ice. Angling is poor.
BURNS POND: trout, bass
The pond is ice covered. Ice thickness was reported at 6 inchesJan. 25, 2010.
CHEWAUCAN RIVER: redband trout, largemouth bass
Snow depth makes access to Chewaucan River upstream of Paisleyextremely difficult.
CHICKAHOMINY RESERVOIR: trout
The reservoir is very low, the water is turbid. Water level isto the bottom of the boat ramp. The reservoir is covered with athin layer of ice; it is not safe for ice fishing. There areseveral yards of open water from the shoreline to ice around theentire reservoir. Some trout may have survived the summer, but wecannot recommend traveling long distances to fish thisreservoir.
DELINTMENT LAKE: trout
The reservoir is covered with ice. Ice thickness is unknown.Angling is poor. The road into the lake is icy, with packed snowand ice for several miles into the reservoir.
DEVILS LAKE: yellow perch, largemouth bass, brown bullhead
The lake is frozen.
DOG LAKE: largemouth bass, yellow perch, black crappie, brownbullhead
The lake is frozen. The thickness of the ice is unknown.
DUNCAN RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout
The reservoir’s water rarely freezes thick enough for safe icefishing.
FISH LAKE (Steens Mountain): brook trout, rainbow trout
The lake is covered with ice. Ice thickness is unknown. Anglingis slow to poor.
FOURMILE LAKE: rainbow trout, lake trout, kokanee, brooktrout
Access to the lake is blocked by snow at highway 140.
GERBER RESERVOIR: crappie, yellow perch, brown bullhead andlargemouth bass
The reservoir is frozen. Ice fishing can be good for yellowperch. Ice thickness has decreased.
JUNIPER LAKE: cutthroat trout
The lake is dry.
KLAMATH AND AGENCY LAKES: redband trout and yellow perch
Angling is very slow due very cold water.
KLAMATH RIVER: native rainbow-redband trout
Angling below Keno Dam is slow. Winter conditions exist withanglers encountering snow, ice and occasionally mud. The KlamathRiver from J.C. Boyle Dam bridge crossing downstream to the J. CBoyle Powerhouse provides good angling this time of year for smallredband-rainbow trout (6-11 inches). Angling in the river below thepowerhouse is challenging due to un- plowed roads, deep snow, andsteep terrain.
KRUMBO RESERVOIR: trout and largemouth bass
This reservoir is closed for the season. It will reopen in lateApril 2010.
LAKE OF THE WOODS: hatchery rainbow trout, kokanee, hatcherybrown trout, yellow perch, brown bullhead, largemouth bass,crappie, and smallmouth bass
The lake is frozen although ice thickness is unknown. Lake ofthe Woods offers good ice fishing for yellow perch. Extreme cautionshould be taken to assure ice is thick enough for safe angling.
LINK RIVER: redband trout
Redband trout are available. Boats can be launched at VeteransPark.
LUCKY RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout
The reservoir is frozen. Thickness of the ice is unknown.
MALHEUR RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout
The water extends out from the neck past the peninsula. Thereservoir is covered with ice. Angling is slow for rainbow troutbetween 14 and 16 inches. The current fishing regulations for thisreservoir are unchanged. Current bag limit is five trout no morethan one over 20 inches.
MALHEUR RIVER (Warm Springs Reservoir downstream to South ForkMalheur River): redband trout and hatchery rainbow trout
Warm Springs Reservoir is at minimum water level. Flows belowWarm Springs Dam have been shut off for the winter. Angling fortrout is poor.
MALHEUR RIVER (from the South Fork Malheur River near Riverside,downstream to Gold Creek): redband trout and hatchery rainbowtrout.
Flows below Beulah and Warm Springs reservoirs have been shutoff for the winter. Flows in the Juntura area are about 10 cfs.Angling for trout is poor.
MALHEUR RIVER, NORTH FORK: redband trout, whitefish, and bulltrout
Access to the North Fork Area is limited. It is most likelyblocked by snow. No recent angling report. Remember to release bulltrout.
MALHEUR RIVER, MIDDLE FORK: redband trout, brook trout, and bulltrout
Access to the North Fork Area is limited. It is most likelyblocked by snow. No recent angling report. Remember to release bulltrout.
MANN LAKE: trout
No recent angling report. The lake is very low, and illegallyintroduced goldfish have disrupted the trout fishery.
MILLER LAKE: brown trout, kokanee, rainbow trout
Access to the lake is blocked by snow. Access is available bysnowmobile or dog team. Be aware of possibility of sled dog racersusing the access road in the month of January and February. Thelake is frozen.
MOON RESERVOIR: bass, trout
The reservoir is covered with ice. Ice thickness is unknown. Norecent angling report.
MURRAY RESERVOIR: trout
Ice fishing for trout is fair. Fish are averaging 12 inches.
NORTH MALHEUR BLM STOCK PONDS: rainbow trout
Access is limited by snow. The reservoirs are covered with ice.Angling is poor.
OWYHEE RESERVOIR: largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, blackcrappie, yellow perch, catfish
The reservoir was 25 percent full on Jan. 24. The only boatramps open for use are at the powerhouse and the resort. All otherramps are out of the water. Ice is beginning to form at the upperend of the reservoir. Boater should use caution. Angling forwarmwater fish is slow.
OWYHEE RIVER (Lower): brown trout and hatchery rainbow trout
Flows below the dam have been shutoff for the winter. Most ofthe river is open. Ice covers only the large pools. Fishing forrainbow and brown trout is slow. Anglers need to be careful aroundspawning areas as there are eggs in the gravel.
OWYHEE RIVER (Upper): smallmouth bass and channel catfish
Discharge at the Rome gauge averaged 212 cfs on Jan. 24. Fishingfor smallmouth and channel catfish is poor. All of the dirt roadsare muddy and very soft, so access off paved roads is limited.
PHILLIPS RESERVOIR: trout, perch
Ice fishing for perch is fair. The road to the boat ramp nearthe dam is drivable but hasn’t been plowed.
PILCHER RESERVOIR: trout
The reservoir is closed to fishing until spring.
PIUTE RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout and hatchery Lahontancutthroat trout
The reservoir is frozen. Ice thickness is unknown. Reservoir isextremely low.
POWDER RIVER: trout, spring chinook
Catch-and-release for trout is allowed using flies and luresonly from Mason dam to the Hughes Lane Bridge in Baker City. Theremaining portions of the Powder River are closed.
SOUTH MALHEUR BLM STOCK PONDS: hatchery rainbow trout
Access is limited by snow. The reservoirs are covered with ice.Angling is poor.
THIEF VALLEY RESERVOIR: trout
Ice fishing is fair-good for very heavy 15-18 inch trout. Theice is thawing and re-freezing around edges, use extreme caution.The dirt road that follows the reservoir has been upgraded toprovide good access to the Powder River below the dam. Publicaccess only goes approximately 1,000 ft below the dam. Pleaserespect private property and remain within 1,000 ft of the dam.
THOMPSON VALLEY RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout, largemouthbass
The reservoir is frozen.
UNITY RESERVOIR: trout, bass, crappie
Ice fishing for trout is very good. Fish are 12-14 inches.
WARM SPRINGS RESERVOIR: smallmouth bass, white crappie, catfish,perch, and hatchery rainbow trout
The water level in the reservoir remains near minimum. It was 8percent and average inflow was 74 cfs on Jan. 24. Angling in thereservoir is poor.
WOLF CREEK RESERVOIR: crappie, trout
Ice fishing is good for rainbow trout. Ice thickness is about 1foot.
YELLOWJACKET LAKE: trout
The reservoir is covered with ice. Ice thickness was measured at14 inches on Jan. 25, 2010. Angling has been good for trout in the12 to 14 inch size range. Road conditions into the lake aregenerally icy, packed snow and ice for several miles into the lake.A hole was cut in the ice, several feet wide at the center of thelake. It is very hazardous, and anglers should steer clear of it toavoid falling into the lake.
SOUTHEAST ZONE HUNTING
OPEN: GOOSE, CHUKAR/HUN (bird seasons close Jan. 31) andCOUGAR
EVENT
May 22, Family day at the range, Snake River Sportsmen’s Club,Ontario. $15.00/person includes the use of all necessary equipment,instruction/materials and lunch. More information
Use the Oregon Hunting Access Map to see where to hunt.
Report your hunt results by Jan. 31 for chance to draw specialbig game tag. Anyone who purchases a 2009 big game or turkey tagmust report hunt results online or by phone—even if you did notfill your tag or go hunting. More information
HARNEY COUNTY
COUGAR hunting is open. Populations are healthy and distributedthroughout the district in any area with a big game preybase.
COYOTE populations appear to have rebounded this summer, andgood numbers can be found throughout Harney County. The highestconcentrations are associated near mule deer wintering areas andprivate agricultural or calving areas. Hunters are reminded to askpermission before entering private lands. Be aware that bobcats andcougars may respond to predator calls, and separate licensing andopen season limitations exist for these species.
WATERFOWL hunting will be limited in Harney Basin due toextremely low water conditions in Malheur Lake and most localreservoirs. Best hunting opportunities will be for Canada geese onprivate lands, hunters are reminded to get permission from thelandowner before hunting on private lands. Duck season closed Jan.24 and goose season will end Jan. 31.
CHUKAR and CALIFORNIA QUAIL production was fair to good due toextensive rains in June. Many adults appear to have re-nested andit appears that second brood survival may have been successful.Overall chukar and quail populations are expected to be higher thanthe past two seasons, but still below the 10 year average. Chukarand quail season end Jan. 31.
KLAMATH COUNTY
Duck and Goose seasons are now closed in Klamath County.
Goose season reopens February 20 for white-fronted, snow, andRoss’ geese in the Klamath County Zone. Expanded daily bag limitincludes 2 white-fronts, and 4 white geese. Hunters are remindedhunting is only allowed on private lands. Any public lands orwaters owned or controlled by any state, county, or federal agencyare closed to hunting.
CALIFORNIA QUAIL season remains open through January 31 withexcellent opportunities around foothill areas.
COUGAR season is open. Cougar hunting opportunities will improvewith colder winter weather as cougars follow big game migrations towinter ranges.
Good COYOTE hunting opportunities exist throughout thecounty.
KLAMATH WILDLIFE AREA
Waterfowl seasons are closed on Klamath Wildlife Area.California Quail season is the only hunting available on thewildlife area at this time. Very few quail are established outsideof the posted Safety Zones, so hunting is slow.
Waterfowl harvest statistics
Gorr Island Unit
Gorr Island is located four miles south of the Miller IslandUnit in the Klamath River, accessible only by boat, and is opendaily for hunting with no permit required.
Shoalwater Bay Unit and Sesti Tgawaals Unit
Shoalwater Bay and Sesti Tgawaals are both located on the westside of Upper Klamath Lake approximately 10 miles to the north andwest of Klamath Falls. Both units are opening to hunting daily withno permit required.
Miller Island Unit
The Miller Island Unit is located 6 miles south and west ofKlamath Falls. Permits are required for all hunting.
This area is divided into three subunits: A, B and C. Check inis required daily during all authorized seasons beginning Sept. 1.Entry permits shall be in possession while in the field; checkoutis required.
The check station is located under the area light on MillerIsland Rd. Hunting is by permit only. Self service two-part permitswill be available at the check station on Miller Island Road onhunt days. Hunting is permitted on all three units on the MillerIsland Unit all day on hunt days with the self-service permit.
Hunting dates for Miller Island will be odd-numbered days inJan.
Upland game bird shooting hours are from 8 a.m. until the closeof waterfowl shooting hours.
No person shall use or possess any shot other thanfederally-approved nontoxic shot while in the Miller IslandUnit.
For the most up-to-date waterfowl population flights in theKlamath Basin, please visit the Klamath Basin National WildlifeRefuge website athttp://www.fws.gov/klamathbasinrefuges/menurec.html
The Klamath Wildlife Area Miller Island Unit is closed to alldeer hunting.
Overnight camping is not allowed on the Miller Island Unit.Discharge of firearms is prohibited except by permit. If you haveany questions, please contact Klamath Wildlife Area at (541)883-5734 or lanny.a.fujishin@state.or.us .
Some wetland units in Subunit B are dry to facilitate habitatmanagement activities to reduce encroaching bulrush and cattail andincrease open water for waterfowl and shorebird use.
LAKE COUNTY
CHUKAR season is open. Production was only fair due to extensiverains in June. Many of the adults re-nested and it appears thathunting will be better than last year but below the 10 yearaverage. Season closes on Jan. 31
Throughout the county QUAIL production has been good. Most Quailare found on private land and hunters are reminded to getpermission from the landowner. Season closes on Jan. 31
WATERFOWL hunting will be very limited in the Warner Valley.Hart and Crump lakes have very low water levels and all other lakesin the valley are dry. Lake Abert and Goose Lake are also very lowwith extensive mudflats between the shoreline vegetation and water.Duck season closed Jan. 24, goose season closes Jan 31.
COUGAR hunting is open. Populations are healthy due to goodhabitat and prey base.
COYOTE numbers appear to be very low throughout the county. Thebest numbers are near the crested wheatgrass seedlings in thesouthern portion of the Wagontire unit. Populations in foresthabitats also are more abundant and calling around natural forestopenings can be productive.
SUMMER LAKE WILDLIFE AREA
This section was last updated Jan. 25, 2010.
Fifteenth week of waterfowl season was slow for waterfowlhunting.
Warm and mostly open conditions persisted for most of the week.Cool evening temperatures over the weekend resulted in thin icethat opened greatly by the end of the day. A few hunters were ableto locate birds and enjoyed fair hunting in newly opened wetlandareas. Birds have spread out further and hunting slowed downconsiderably by the end of the weekend.
Hunter participation was down -33.9% from the same week lastyear and success of 0.90 birds per hunter was also down, -18.9%.Hunters reported (96.1% check-out) a harvest of 63 birds (36 ducks,22 geese and 5 California quail).
Hunters averaged 0.51 ducks per hunter and harvest consisted of28 mallards, 2 Am. wigeon, 2 goldeneye, 1 gadwall, 1 N. pintail, 1merganser and 1 N. pintail. Success was down -38.4% compared tothe same week in 2009.
Sixteen (16) Canada and 6 white-fronted geese were taken for agoose per hunter average of 0.31, up 47.1% from the same week in2009.
Five California quail were reported in the harvest.
Hunters spent 4.6 hours on average in the field, down -19.9%from the 5.7 hours reported in 2009.
The weekly bird count conducted on January 20th found about4,100 ducks and 600 geese on the Area at that time. The nextweekly bird count is scheduled for Jan. 27th, just before the lastweekend of goose season on Jan. 31st . Count information will beupdated on the telephone answering machine shortly thereafter.
DUCK, COOT AND SNIPE SEASONS HAVE CLOSED!
GOOSE AND QUAIL SEASONS WILL REMAIN OPEN THROUGH JANUARY 31.
Prospects for the remainder of the week are only fair due toopen wetland conditions that allow the low wintering number ofgeese to disperse widely. Waterfowl numbers are at theirtraditionally low level, harsh and stormy weather conditions willbe necessary to improve hunting.
Pass shooting has been and will continue to be very poor due tolow bird numbers.
Hunters will need to use decoys and spend most of the day in thefield to be successful.
It is in the hunter’s best interest to refrain from shooing atbirds out of range. Distance estimation information is available atHeadquarters and life-sized silhouettes situated at effectiveshooting distances can be found at each of the campgrounds. Huntersare urged to take advantage of these tools to improve huntingefficiency and success as well as ethical behavior.
Pheasant season closed on Dec. 31st. California quail numbersremain fair but coveys are widely scattered at this time; habitatis in excellent condition. Presently there is no snow cover andfood sources remain abundant and accessible to birds. North endagricultural areas and old homestead sites should provide goodopportunities. Hunters using dogs will have the best success inlocating birds.
Free daily hunting permits are required for all hunters and areavailable at the Wildlife Area (WA) Headquarters 24 hours/day. Selfservice permits can be obtained in the lobby (please followdirections carefully) or will be issued by WA staff at the officecounter. Check out is mandatory and can be accomplished by droppingoff permits in boxes found at each campground, major access areasand at Headquarters at the end of the day.
Hunters need to be sure they have current hunting licenses,waterfowl and/or upland validations, Harvest Information Program(HIP) validations and a signed Federal Duck Stamp (if 16 year ofa*ge or older). Please remember, new 2010 Hunting Licenses arenecessary for the remainder of the hunting season. Validations andthe Federal Duck Stamp will remain valid through the end of thehunting season. Licenses and validations are available from anyPoint of Sale (POS) agent.
Youth hunters under 18 years of age must also have a HunterEducation Card in their possession while in the field.
Please remember that federally approved non-toxic shot isrequired for all game bird hunting.
Hunters need to be aware that the Gold Dike Impoundment, thearea south of Gold Dike and the northwest corner of Summer Lakewill be dry or with very low water levels during the 2009-10hunting season due to marsh management and vegetation controlactivities. Hunting is still permitted in this >2,000 acre area,but over-water and pond hunting opportunities will be affected.
Please contact Summer Lake Wildlife Area at (541) 943-3152 oremail martin.j.stlouis@state.or.us for additional information.
MALHEUR COUNTY
COUGAR season is open. With varying snow conditions thought thecounty hunters may be able to track down cougars. The best time totrack cougars is 12 to 24 hours after a fresh snow. Deer and elkwinger ranges have the highest concentrations of cougars fromNovember through the end of March.
Remaining UPLAND BIRD seasons close Jan. 31.
Chukar
Chukar surveys on established routes yielded 32 chukar per 10miles and production of 8.3 chicks per brood. This is well abovethe 17 per 10 miles measured last year, but still below the 10 yearaverage of 55 birds per 10 miles.
Hunters have been finding birds in localized pockets throughoutthe county. Generally hunting has been better that the last twoyears. The areas north of Hwy 20 are fair to good. Malheur RiverCanyon hunting is fair to good. South of Vale and Harper hunting isfair. Succor Cr, Leslie Gulch and Owhyee Reservoir hunting is poor.Owhyee Canyon between Rome and 3-forks hunting is fair to good.Access to remote location is difficult due to rain and snow in thelast two weeks be careful and avoid damage to soft wet roads
California quail
Like Chukar, the quail benefited from good brood rearingconditions this year. Surveys on established routes showed 35 quailper 10 miles up from 20 last year and on par with the 10 yearaverage. Production was 8.4 chicks per brood and there are stillnew broods being hatched. Hunting prospects in the rangeland areasshould be improved over last year. Hunting around the irrigatedagricultural areas should be similar to recent years. As withpheasants snow and wet condition in the last two weeks haveconcentrated birds around dense winter habitat primarily riverbottoms, shrubs and cattails.
Waterfowl
In the valley around Nyssa, Ontario and Vale, duck and goosehunting has improved with harsher winter conditions. Waterfowl areconcentrated near the river and other open water. Field hunting forgeese is good where hunters can get permission. Duck hunting on theSnake River is good but birds are becoming decoy shy due toincreased pressure. Duck season closes Jan. 24.
Coyote
Coyote hunting has been slow due to relatively low populationlevels associated with a low period in cyclic rabbit and rodentpopulations. Hunters are reminded to ask permission before enteringprivate lands. Be aware that bobcats and cougars may respond topredator calls, and separate licensing and open season limitationsexist for these species.
SOUTHEAST ZONE VIEWING
EVENT
2010 Winter Wings Festival, Klamath Falls, February 12-14,Klamath Falls
The Klamath Basin Audubon Society presents the 31st AnnualWinter Wings Festival. Experience the beauty of the Klamath Basinin winter, where hundreds of eagles and other raptors and literallythousands of ducks, geese, and swans take up residence. Visitwww.winterwingsfest.org for more information.
Malheur County
Good viewing opportunities for a diverse variety of waterfowland raptors occur along the Malheur River between Harper andJuntura and the Owyhee River from Snively Hot Springs to OwyheeDam. Aquatic furbearers including muskrats, beaver and river otterare frequently observed on the shelf ice adjacent to these riversthis time of year. 12/22/09.
Harney County
Wintering raptors have returned to the area. You should be ableto view golden eagles, bald eagles and a variety of hawks perchingon telephone poles and fence posts throughout the district. Baldeagles will increase in numbers as spring migrants begin to movenorth.
Many of the bighorn sheep will be using lower elevation slopesand can often be seen from the highways.Bighorn sheep may be seenfrom highway 205 along Catlow Valley or along the East Steens Road.1/26/10.
Klamath Falls Area
Bald eagles have been observed daily using the big snag locatedalong Lake Ewauna by Veteran’s Park. Viewing opportunities havepicked up for raptors including bald eagles, rough-legged hawks,northern harriers, and red-tailed hawks around the basin.
The Link River offers great viewing for common merganser,bufflehead, common goldeneye, lesser scaup, and great blue heron.The Link River trail provides great viewing opportunities.
Good numbers of tundra swans have returned to stage in theKlamath Basin prior to migrating north. Best viewing opportunitiesare south of Klamath Falls in flooded fields near Township andStateline Roads.
As colder weather arrives, it’s a good time to stock your birdfeeders. It’s also a good idea to clean your bird feederperiodically through the winter to reduce spread of diseases.1/20/10.
Klamath Wildlife Area
Great Basin Canada geese have begun their annual pairing inpreparation for the breeding and nesting season. Frozen pondconditions make for poor waterfowl viewing at this time.1/26/10.
Raptors
Red-tailed hawks are occasional visitors on Miller Island Unitat this time with bald eagle making forays onto the area. Look foreagle numbers to begin increasing in about a month or so as theybegin to forage on migrating waterfowl. 1/5/10.
Lake County and Lakeview Area
In January waterfowl populations will start the springmigration. Bald eagles which nest in Alaska or Canada and winterin California will follow the waterfowl migration. January throughMarch is a good time to see numerous Bald eagles throughout majoragricultural valleys in the county.
By this time of year all migrant shore birds and passerines havemoved south. Avid birders can still find a few peeps along LakeAbert. Winter passerines are best seen in riparian areas throughoutthe county. Winter raptors are most abundant in the valleys nearhay meadows and wintering cattle.
With the recent precipitation herbaceous vegetation has greenedup along the lower elevations of Abert Rim. Bighorn sheep can beviewed along the mid to lower elevations of the Rim along U.S.Highway 395. 11/22/09.
Summer Lake Wildlife Area
This section was updated on January 25, 2010. Vehicle access tothe Wildlife Viewing Loop is closed until Jan. 31, 2010 due towaterfowl hunting season.
A majority of the Area’s wetlands have opened up during therecent mild temperatures. Waterfowl have largely departed tosoutherly wintering areas and low wintering populations remain. Thelast weekly count conducted on Jan. 20 found about 4,100 ducks, 600geese and 400 swans. Very few shorebirds and waders remain, nearlyall have migrated south.
Waterfowl hunting seasons are underway and viewing opportunitieswill be limited to areas open to hunting as well as the SchoolhouseLake Viewing Blind.
Waterfowl
Migration has ended and waterfowl populations are at winteringlevels.
Resident Canada geese are dispersed widely across the WildlifeArea and adjacent private lands. Tundra swan numbers showed aslight increase over the past week, about 400 were observed duringthe weekly count. Migrant and wintering trumpeter swans can stillbe found, last week nearly 30 birds were present.
Shorebirds, waders and other waterbirds
Very few individuals of just 2-3 species can still be found.Other waterbird species are becoming scarce now with only a fewlingering individuals still present.
Raptors and Others
Resident raptors remain scattered throughout the Wildlife Areaas well as on private lands along Hwy 31. Wintering raptors arefound in good numbers throughout the Summer Lake Basin and are veryapparent along Highway 31. Rough-legged hawks (arctic migrants) arecommonly seen during winter. Meadows offer excellent foragingopportunities for many raptors. Northern harriers are especiallynumerous over marsh and hay meadows. Bald eagles are infrequentlyseen across the Wildlife Area now. Prairie falcons, Cooper’s andsharp-shinned hawks and golden eagles are sometimes seen duringthis time of the year.
Upland game birds
California quail have formed large coveys now. Pheasant groupsand individuals continue to be observed around agricultural andNorthend areas, however most are in heavy cover at this time.
Eurasian collared doves remain fairly numerous (20-25individuals) at Headquarters Complex and mourning doves arescarce.
Passerine (perching) species, especially sparrows and finchesremain fairly common around the Headquarters complex, Summer LakeRest Area, homestead sites and shelter break plantings at the northend of the Area where they are attracted to tree and shrub cover.Other migrant and wintering passerines can now be found in very lownumbers.
Facilities and Access
During waterfowl hunting seasons, access is restricted to areasopen for hunting and to the Schoolhouse Lake Viewing Blind. Campingis permitted at four sites on the Wildlife Area. Users are urged toexercise care with campfires. Campgrounds are primitive but eachhas vault toilets, trash barrels and a few picnic tables.
The Wildlife Viewing Loop will remain closed through generalwaterfowl hunting season which ends January 31, 2010.
Access to Schoolhouse Lake Viewing Blind will remain open tofoot travel and will afford excellent opportunities for observationof staging waterbirds in the refuge area.
Habitat
Most of the Wildlife Area’s wetland habitats are well floodednow, and due to recent mild conditions a majority of the area isopen and ice-free.
Wetland enhancement/construction activities have ended for theyear and a majority of the Gold Dike Impoundment and the area southof Gold Dike will remain dry throughout winter.
Meadows and hayfields found on adjacent private lands and inselected locations on the Wildlife Area were flooded in earlySeptember and considerable vegetation regrowth has occurred.
Upland habitat remains in very good condition due to anexcellent growth of many species of forbs and grasses. Recentlyfarmed food plots are providing foraging sites to many specieslooking for seeds in these cultivated areas. Tree and shrubdevelopments at the Middle Well and Turner Place have producedabundant fruit and considerable bird use is occurring at thistime. Only a skiff of snow is present on the ground at thistime.
Please contact Summer Lake Wildlife Area at (541) 943-3152 ore-mail martin.j.stlouis@state.or.us for additional information.
NORTHEAST ZONE
FISHING
Weekend fishing opportunities
* Now might just be the time to get steelhead fishing on theUmatilla. Conditions have improved and there fish spread throughoutthe system with a fair number of fish still entering the lowerUmatilla near Pendleton.
* Mild weather also has improved steelhead fishing in the GrandeRonde and Imnaha basins.
If your favorite fishing spot is no longer listed
It’s probably because that river, lake or reservoir is closedfor the season, inaccessible due to snow and bad roads, or offerslimited fishing opportunities during the winter months. Thesewaterbodies will re-appear in the Recreation Report when theyre-open next spring, or when access and/or opportunity improve.
GRANDE RONDE, WALLOWA, IMNAHA RIVERS AND TRIBUTARIES:steelhead
Continued mild weather has improved steelhead angling innortheast Oregon rivers. Anglers are finding steelhead throughoutmost of the usual spring fishing areas in the Grande Ronde andImnaha basins. Anglers checked on the lower Grande Ronde Riverlast week averaged 2.3 hours per steelhead landed. Surveys havenot yet started on the Imnaha and Wallowa Rivers but anglersfishing these rivers are reporting good success. Steelhead anglingconditions will depend on weather and flow conditions and anglersshould check river flows using the link below.
Steelhead anglers have a new area to fish in the Imnaha Riverbasin beginning Jan. 1, 2010. Big Sheep Creek from the Imnaha Riverupstream to the mouth of Little Sheep Creek is now open tosteelhead angling. The reach is approximately three miles andincludes approximately two miles of public access on land recentlyacquired by The Nature Conservancy. Anglers should use locationcode 144 (Imnaha River) when recording catch from Big Sheep Creekon their harvest cards. The bag limit on the lower Grande Ronde,Wallowa, and Imnaha Rivers and Big Sheep Creek is five adiposefin-clipped steelhead per day.
Check river flows
HOLLIDAY PARK POND AND BULL PRAIRIE RESERVOIR: trout
Ice fishing is fair in both ponds. Watch for thin ice.
JOHN DAY RIVER: steelhead
Recent warmer weather has also improved steelhead fishingconditions on the John Day. Fish have made it up to Kimberly butare holding in slow deep pools and fishing is only fair. Ice willreturn to the river if night time temperatures fall below 20degrees. Only three fin-clipped steelhead may be harvested per day.All unclipped fish must be immediately released.
Stream flow levels at Service Creek
MAGONE LAKE: trout
Ice has covered the lake and access is by snowmobile only.Anglers should be cautious of thin ice. Ice fishing success forbrook and rainbow trout should be fair with rainbows and brooktrout to 14 inches.
OLIVE LAKE: trout, kokanee
The Lake is now snowed in until next May.
ROWE CREEK RESERVOIR, BULL PRAIRIE RESERVOIR, TROUT FARM POND,LONG CREEK POND, CAVENDER POND: trout
Ice fishing for rainbow trout is fair. These reservoirs andponds are open all year but only stocked each spring.
TROUT FARM POND: rainbow and brook trout
The Lake is now snowed in until next spring.
UMATILLA RIVER: steelhead
Steelhead angling was good this past week with anglers averaging5 hours per fish caught in the Pendleton area. Fish numbers atThreemile Dam have increased this week with warmer watertemperatures, flows are still low, and angling should be good.Steelhead returns to date, to Threemile Dam are 1,530. UpdatedThreemile Dam fish counts can be accessed at accessed athttp://www.dfw.state.or.us/fish/fish_counts/
WALLOWA LAKE: rainbow trout, kokanee
Wallowa Lake is providing fair fishing for stocked rainbowtrout.
WILLOW CREEK RESERVOIR: trout
The reservoir was recently stocked with 2,000 larger thanlegal-sized trout, which should provide good angling through outthe fall and winter months.
NORTHEAST ZONE HUNTING
OPEN: WATERFOWL (see regulations for dates), CHUKAR/HUN andQUAIL (closed Umatilla and Morrow), and COUGAR
Remaining waterfowl and upland bird seasons close Jan. 31.
Use the Oregon Hunting Access Map to see where to hunt.
Report your hunt results by Jan. 31 for chance to draw specialbig game tag. Anyone who purchases a 2009 big game or turkey tagmust report hunt results online or by phone—even if you did notfill your tag or go hunting. More information
Wolves in northeast Oregon
Wolves are protected by state law and it is unlawful to shootthem. Coyote hunters in northeastern Oregon need to take extra careto 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 inOregon; please report any wolf sightings or wolf sign to La Grandeoffice (541) 963-2138 or online.
BAKER COUNTY
CHUKAR and QUAIL are open. Chukar numbers are higher thanprevious years. Hunters should have the best success alongBrownlee Reservoir. Look for Quail in lower elevation brushy drawsand borders of agricultural areas. Seasons close Jan. 31.
COUGAR hunters should experience higher success now that snowhas fallen. Try tracking cougars after fresh snow. Cougars can befound throughout Baker County but hunters should target areas withhigh concentrations of wintering deer and elk. Try the Burnt RiverCanyon west of Durkee or the Powder River Canyon south of ThiefValley Reservoir.
WATERFOWL large numbers of ducks and geese have moved southafter the rivers and reservoirs froze in December. Some ducks andgeese can still be found in open water portions of the Powder Riverand adjacent agricultural fields. Goose hunting closes Jan. 31 andduck season closed Jan. 24.
COYOTE numbers are good throughout the district. Remember to askfor permission before hunting on private properties. Try calling inearly morning and late afternoon.
GRANT COUNTY
COUGAR season is open. Tracking cougar after snow can beeffective.
COYOTE numbers are good in most of the district. They mayrespond to distress call as the weather cools.
CHUKAR numbers are down from historical highs of a few years agobut birds may be found along the South Fork of the John Day River.Season closes Jan. 31.
QUAIL may be found throughout the county in riparian areas withgood brush cover. Many of these areas are on private land along theJohn Day River so be sure to ask permission from private landownerbefore hunting. Season closes Jan. 31.
MORROW, GILLIAM and WHEELER COUNTIES
COUGAR hunting is open. For best success, look for tracks aftera fresh snow. Both walking out the tracks and calling can beeffective this time of year.
COYOTE hunting: Watch wind direction to help prevent giving awayyour location. Calling with game distress calls can be verysuccessful.
UPLAND GAME BIRD season is still open. Morrow County closed allupland bird hunting on December 31 with Gilliam and Wheeler countyclosing on January 31. Bird numbers are well above what they werelast year, but still well below the five and ten yearaverages.
UMATILLA DISTRICT
COUGAR are well distributed in forested areas of the WallaWalla, Mt. Emily, and Ukiah units. Hunters will have best successby finding a fresh naturally made kill and sitting on it, or byusing predator calls. Some success has come from following tracksuntil the cougar is located. Tracking conditions haveimproved.
COYOTE are numerous throughout the District and hunters shouldhave good success calling. Remember to ask permission beforehunting on private lands.
Both DUCK and GOOSE numbers have increased in the Columbia Basinsince the middle of November. Goose hunting will be best in fieldsplanted to winter wheat, alfalfa, or with field corn stubble. Goosehunters will also find success using decoys over water along theColumbia River shore. Duck numbers are variable and down in recentyears. Harsh weather may draw some birds down from Washington andimprove hunting on the Columbia River and nearby wetlands thisweek. Hunters should expect lower numbers of ducks in the ColumbiaBasin of Oregon than were present up through the mid 1990s. Duckclosed Jan. 24 and goose hunting closes Jan. 31.
UNION COUNTY
GAME BIRDS – Quail, Chukar and Hungarian partridge seasons areopen. Ladd Marsh Wildlife Area and private lands with good shrubcover around the perimeter of the Grande Ronde Valley are goodlocations to find huns and quail. Union County has a few Chukar inthe Powder River Canyon. Upland bird seasons close Jan. 31.
COYOTE numbers are strong throughout the county. Using predatorcalls as a lure and moving call sights after 20 minutes is aneffective method for harvesting coyotes. Recent snow will makecoyotes easier to spot at long distances. Be sure to ask permissionbefore hunting on private land.
COUGARS are common in Union County. Fresh snow will maketracking easier. Following fresh tracks is and effective method ofseeing cougars and finding kill-sites. Look for recent kill-sitesand set up a stand down wind of the kill. A cougar kill site isoften covered with sticks, leaves and other debris. Cougars aremost active in the mornings and evenings. Using a remote call box(possibly in conjunction with a remote motion devise) can also beeffective as it draws the cougar’s attention away from yourlocation. Be VERY patient when calling cougars. They usually comein very slow using every bit of cover when approaching a call orremote motion devise. Be well hidden when calling and keep yourmotion to a minimum. 2010 tag needed to hunt as of Jan. 1.
LADD MARSH WILDLIFE AREA
Remaining bird seasons close on Jan. 31.
Ladd Marsh Wildlife Area is open Saturday, Sunday, Wednesday andall state observed holidays during quail, partridge and waterfowlseasons. Visitors are advised to carefully read posted signs andconsult game bird regulations before entering the wildlifearea.
The Glass Hill Unit of the wildlife area, that portion west ofFoothill Road, will be closed to all public entry from January 1through April 1 to minimize disturbance to wintering wildlife.
Maps with current water conditions, blind locations and LaddMarsh regulations are available at map boxes located at variousaccess points throughout the area.
Quail hunting continues to be good. Hunter pressure has beenabove average due to favorable weather conditions and good birdnumbers. Hunters should concentrate on heavy cover associated withwetlands.
WALLOWA DISTRICT
WATERFOWL: Goose hunting opportunities are good for hunterswilling to pattern goose activity in agricultural areas and set updecoys. Goose season runs through Jan. 31.
CHUKAR numbers are well below normal through out the county, andhunter success has been low. Season closes Jan. 31.
Good numbers of coyotes can be found throughout Wallowa County.Calling coyotes with rabbit distress type calls has been effectivefor hunters. It is important to choose areas with abundant coyotesign and little human activity.
Cougar numbers are strong through out Wallowa County. Most lionsare taken incidental to other hunting; however, calling with fawnbleat, or locating a cougar kill and waiting for a cat to returnare often successful techniques.
TRAVEL MANAGEMENT RESTRICTIONS: Noregaard, Whiskey Creek, andShamrock travel management areas are in effect in the Sled Springsunit.
NORTHEAST ZONE VIEWING
Baker County
Rocky Mountain elk can be seen at the Elkhorn Wildlife Area.Fora close up horse-drawn wagon viewing opportunity try T&TWildlife Tours at the Anthony Creek Feed site.http://www.tnthorsemanship.com/tours.htm
Mule Deer can be seen on their winter ranges throughout BakerCounty. Remember wildlife are particularly sensitive to harassmentduring the winter so view at a distance.Bald Eagles viewingopportunities are plentiful along the Brownlee Reservoir; you willneed a keen eye and good optics to take full advantage of them.1/26/1.
Gilliam, Morrow and Wheeler Counties
Our winter species are now all here: Bald Eagles can be seenalong the John Day and Columbia rivers. Rough Legged hawks arecommon sights along the power poles and fence lines of theDistrict. Short eared owls are less common then they have been inthe past. Great Grey owls have been seen the in Ditch Creek areaof the forest. Our resident raptors are around, Kestrels,Harriers, Red-tailed hawks, Great-horned and Barn owls. Theoccasional Prairie falcons can be seen along the power lines. Theweather has not been cold enough to bring our rare visitors downinto the area.
Our winter song birds are here as well, most can easily be seennear the bird feeders around the district. If you have not cleanedyour feeder, now is the time to do it. Birds concentrate aroundthe feeder increasing the chance for disease spread.
Mule deer have moved onto their winter ranges for district. Elkare making occasional forays into the lower county but snow is notdeep enough to drive large numbers onto the winter range.12/22/09
Union County
Pronghorn Antelope can be viewed on Ladd Marsh Wildlife Area,often along Pierce Road and Hot Lake Lane. Deer and elk can be seenaround the edges of the valley.
Turkeys are congregating in the lowlands within the county. Lookfor large numbers of birds in the Catherine Creek Valley east ofUnion and the Palmer Valley north of Elgin. The Palmer valley northof Elgin is a good area to view both Whitetail and Mule deer.
Watch for river otters, beaver, mergansers and wood ducks alongthe Grande Ronde River; driving west on Highway 244 from La Grandeprovides good access to river viewing. There are still many elk atthe Anthony Creek feed site on the Elkhorn Wildlife Area.1/5/10.
ODFW’s Ladd Marsh Wildlife Area, La Grande
The auto route on the Tule Lake Public Access Area is closed forthe season. Access to the area has reverted to that of the rest ofthe wildlife area—that is, it is open Sat., Sun., Wed. and stateobserved holidays during the waterfowl, quail and pheasant huntingseasons.The Public Access Area and auto route will reopen March 1,2010. There are numerous quality viewing opportunities from countyroads that pass through the area. Binoculars or a spotting scopewill help as many animals are best viewed from a distance. TheGlass Hill Unit, west of Foothill Road will be closed to all entryfrom January 1 through April 1 to minimize disturbance to winteringwildlife.
Waterfowl have returned to the wildlife area with the recentthaw. Mallard, northern pintail, American wigeon, redhead andcommon goldeneye have been observed along with good numbers ofCanada goose.
Raptors abound on the area with recent sightings of prairiefalcon, merlin and numerous American kestrels in addition to baldeagle, Cooper’s hawk, red-tailed hawk, rough-legged hawk andnorthern harrier. Owls are becoming more active as the nestingseason approaches. Great horned and barn owls can be heard andsometimes seen at dusk and early evening. Red-tailed hawks may alsobegin nesting soon as a pair was seen nest building on January22.
Rocky Mountain elk, from both Glass Hill and Craig Mountain,have been moving down slope into the wildlife area regularly,although not daily. These movements can best be observed during thefirst light of morning and the fading light of evening.
Dogs are not permitted within the Wildlife Area, on or off leashexcept during authorized hunting seasons. For more information onaccess rules for the Ladd Marsh Wildlife Area, please consult theOregon Game Bird Regulations or call the wildlife area (541)963-4954. 1/26/10.
Umatilla County
Winter has come to Umatilla County and winter residents can beseen in the various habitats around the county. Winteringrough-legged hawks will be in grassland areas near the hills andthroughout the agricultural areas of north Umatilla County. Juncoscan be seen along the riparian and brushy areas. Pigmy owls havemade a good showing in riparian areas in timbered and timberstringer habitats.
Flocks of ducks and geese can be seen along the Columbia Riverand large reservoirs in the County. Elk will still be common alongthe upper open areas of the west slope of the Blue Mountains. Deerwill be seen in herds from the valley floor to the upper BlueMountains. The riverine and agricultural areas near the base of themountains will be dominated by white-tailed deer. The desert andmountain areas will be inhabited primarily by mule deer. Elk can beviewed throughout the day while deer will be most visible in thefirst and last two hours of the day.
Gulls and raptors can be seen along the Columbia River. Visitlocal wildlife areas to see shore and marsh birds in addition toperching birds and raptors. Wood ducks, mallards and mergansers canbe seen traveling in flocks up and down the river systems that havecottonwood trees along the banks. 12/1/09.
Wallowa County
Bald eagles
Beginning in late November, bald eagles will start showing up inthe Wallowa Valley. These birds spend all winter in the Valley andcan be observed along river corridors, Wallowa Lake, and often inagricultural areas where cattle are being fed.
Waterfowl
Resident Canada geese can be observed through out the WallowaValley feeding in agricultural fields. As winter progressesadditional migrants will show up and add to the viewingopportunities including mallards, pintails, and American widgeon.On open waterbodies, Ring-necked ducks, Scaup, Goldeneye, andBufflehead are common species to observe.
Raptors
Prairie falcon, Red-tailed hawk, Rough-legged hawk, Northernharrier, and Ferruginous hawks, as well as a variety of owls can beobserved through out Wallowa Valley and Zumwalt prairie. Mostraptors can be easily observed from county roads. A good pair ofbinoculars will improve viewing opportunities.
Mule and White-tailed Deer
Mule and white-tailed deer are common in agricultural areasadjacent to Highway 82. Animals can be observed during earlymorning and late evening hours.
Bighorn Sheep
Bighorn sheep can often be observed along the canyon walls ofthe Grande Ronde River when driving both up and down stream fromthe town of Troy.
Rocky Mountain Elk
Elk are easily observed during winter months on the WenahaWildlife Area near Troy. A good place to look is along the EdenBench road during early morning or late afternoon hours.11/10/09
SNAKE RIVER ZONE
FISHING
BROWNLEE RESERVOIR: crappie, bass, perch, catfish, bluegill,trout
Ice has been on the reservoir for a month but has broke througha little around Hewwitt Park. Some perch and crappie are beingcaught around Hewitt. Perch have been biting on worms. The waterlevel is 10 feet below full. Call Idaho Power Company’s recordingat 1-800-422-3143 to get information on access at recreationalsites or visit their Web site under the “Rivers and Recreation”heading.
Reservoir level information
HELLS CANYON RESERVOIR: trout, crappie, bass, catfish
Approximately 1,100 steelhead have been put in the reservoir.These surplus steelhead are considered trout in the reservoir. Notag is needed but only one can be kept per day if over 20inches.
SNAKE RIVER below HELLS CANYON RESERVOIR: trout, smallmouthbass
Fishing for adipose fin-clipped steelhead has slowed but isstill fair-good. The bag limit for steelhead increased to fiveadipose fin-clipped steelhead per day, with no more than three, 32inches in total length or greater. For Idaho’s Fish and Gamesteelhead report go to:http://fishandgame.idaho.gov/cms/fish/steelhead/weekly_harv.cfm
Get updated information on flow levels
SNAKE RIVER (Above Brownlee Reservoir): channel catfish,flathead catfish, smallmouth bass
Flows at the Nyssa gauge averaged 10,495 and the flows at theWeiser gauge averaged 12,598 on Jan 24. Flows at both gauges areslightly above flows observed last year at this time. Angling forsmallmouth bass and catfish is slow.
COLUMBIA ZONE
The Columbia River Zone report is currently in transition, butwe hope to have it back in the Recreation Report shortly. In themeantime, the most recent harvest numbers for the Columbia Rivercan be found at
MARINE ZONE
MARINE FISHING
Bottom fishing is good when ocean conditions permit. Lingcod arein shallower waters to spawn. Divers may find success spearingalong rocky jetties for ling cod and black rockfish.
The marine fish daily bag limit remains seven fish in 2010. Anerror in the 2010 Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations that says thelimit is six. The marine fish bag includes rockfish and otherspecies such as greenling and cabezon. The higher bag limit wentinto effect May 1, 2009 based on a favorable stock assessment forblack rockfish, the dominant species in the nearshore groundfishfishery. There are separate daily limits for lingcod (two) andflatfish other than Pacific halibut (25).
Fishing for cabezon reopened Jan. 1.
Remember: yelloweye rockfish and canary rockfish may not beretained. The Stonewall Bank Yelloweye Rockfish Conservation Areaapproximately 15 miles west of Newport is closed to the harvest ofrockfish, lingcod, flatfish and others.
SHELLFISH
Recreational and commercial clam harvesting is closed on thenorth Oregon coast, from Clatsop Beach north of the Necanicum Riverto the Columbia River. Clam harvesting remains open south of theNecanicum river to the California border.
Mussel harvesting is open on the entire Oregon coast, from themouth of the Columbia River to the California border. Theconsumption of whole, recreationally-harvested scallops is notrecommended. However, coastal scallops are not affected by toxinswhen only the adductor muscle is eaten.
For more information go to the ODA shellfish safety page or callthe shellfish hotline, 1-800-448-2474. Waters can be closed onshort notice because of contaminated waters due to coastal floodingand because of elevated levels of naturally occurring toxins. Crabsare not affected by this closure.
Check out the recreational clam pages on the ODFW Web site:http://www.dfw.state.or.us/mrp/ then click on the shellfish icon.The pages contain everything you need to know for identifying andharvesting Oregon’s clams.
CRABS
Ocean crabbing opened Dec. 1. Crabbing in the ocean this time ofyear can be very productive, but also dangerous because of wind,sea and bar conditions.
Crabbing success is often best during the slack tide at hightide or low tide when crabs are looking for food.
Recreational Bay Crab Survey data are updated every month on theODFW Web site Crabbing Reports page (last update Jan. 7). Thecrabbing report provides prospective crabbers information on thesuccess of crabbers in sampled bays.
Crabbing is open year round in estuaries, on beaches, and offjetties, but the ocean is closed to recreational crabbing from Oct.16 through Nov. 30.
Some sport crabbers have difficulty correctly measuring theminimum size for Dungeness crab, which is 5 3?4 inches measured ina straight line across the back immediately in front of, but notincluding, the points. An illustration showing the correctmeasurement is on page 96 of the 2010 Oregon Sport FishingRegulations book.
MARINE ZONE VIEWING
A winter visit to any of the jetties along the Oregon coast willprovide the wildlife watcher with opportunities to see a variety ofsea-going ducks and water birds. Chief among these are the largeand elegant loons. Pacific, red-throated, and common loon all spendthe winter months along the Oregon coast. Western, red-necked, andhorned grebes favor slightly calmer areas along the coast such aswaters between jetties and estuaries. You should also be able tosee thousands of stout sea ducks rafting in ocean breakers or theareas just behind these breakers. These hardy birds are scoters anddine on mussels and other shellfish. Three species winter along thecoast: surf scoters, white-winged scoters and black scoter. Thesurf scoter is the most common followed by black and thenwhite-winged.
Winter Migration
Polish the lenses on your binoculars and mark some days latethis month to watch the gray whale winter migration. It is shortand quick – usually only about four weeks – from mid-December tomid-January.The whales are not slowed by having calves in the podand single-mindedly drive southwards in straight lines a few milesoffshore. You can see their spouts, but they are distant.About18,000 gray whales will pass by the Oregon coast.
A gray whale's blow is up to 15 feet high, and each blow isvisible for about five seconds. When warm, moist air exhaled fromthe animals' lungs, meets the cool air at the ocean surface, itcreates the bushy column called a blow, or spout. Anticipate thatthe whale will dive for three to six minutes, then surface forthree to five blows in row, 30 to 50 seconds apart, before divingdeep for three to six minutes again.
To watch the winter migration it is best to pick a calm day andfind a view point that is high enough to spot the spouts that willbe a few miles offshore. Learning good binocular technique willhelp spot the whales. Gaze out onto the ocean, focusing on mediumdistances until you see a puff of white.Then raise your binocularswhile continuing to look at the place you saw the puff. Thistechnique takes some practice, but generally works better thanswinging the binoculars around looking for something.Just keepyour eyes focused on the whale and raise the binoculars to youreyes, looking through them, not into them.
Gray whales are the most coastal of the baleen whales and areoften found within a few miles of shore as they migrate from Alaskato Baja. Gray whales have baleen instead of teeth. To feed, theyfill their vast mouths with mud from the sea bottom and strain itthrough their baleen to capture amphipods and other small animals.This is the only type of whale to feed in this manner. The onlyother place on earth gray whales live is off the coast ofKorea.
Wild Tides
One of the most extreme spring tides of the year was on Dec. 31with a tidal drop of more than 12 feet in many parts of the coast.Spring tides are especially strong tides (they do not have anythingto do with the season spring). When the moon is between the sun andthe earth, it produces unusually high spring high tides. When itoccurs on the opposite side from the earth than where the sun islocated during full moon it produces unusually low, neap tides.Spring tides occur during the full moon and the new moon.
If you missed that one there will be a Proxigean spring tideJan. 30, 2010. The high, high spring tide is called the Proxigeanspring tide and it occurs not more than once every one and a halfyears. Some occurrences are more favorable that others and theProxigean spring tide in January is about the same as the springtide this month.
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