ODFW Recreation Report
Dec. 4, 2019

2020 licenses now on sale

Hunters and anglers can now buy their 2020 licenses online, at a license agent and at ODFW offices that sell licenses.

Big game regulations are on the shelves

And here are some of the changes for 2020 that hunters should be aware of.

Winter trout and steelhead are best bets for winter fishing

• Anglers are starting to catch winter steelhead in mid- and north coast rivers. Fish low in the systems until there’s some rain to get the fish moving.
• Late fall/early winter can be a good time to target native redband trout in rivers like the lower Deschutes, Fall, Metolius, Crooked and Blitzen. The fishing is a little slower, but sharing the river with fewer people can make up for it.
• Trout anglers also should consider the upper Willamette between Albany and Harrisburg. It’s open for trout year-round and fishing can be very good when flows are cooperating.

Big game hunting classes in Tualatin

Come learn the basics of big game hunting in one of four classes ODFW is offering in December in Tualatin. Each two-hour class will cover what and where to hunt, what licenses and tags you need, and how to select the right weapons and other gear. Learn more.

It’s not too early to report your hunt

You’re right. The reporting deadline for 2019 hunts isn’t until Jan. 31, 2020. But now that we’ve got you thinking about it, why not report early and get it over with?

Ways to report your hunt.

FISHING

NW FISHING

Weekend fishing opportunities:

• Anglers have been catching the first winter steelhead of the season. Fishing will pick up once we get some rain and fishing really begin moving upriver.
• Town Lake has been getting small stockings of surplus summer steelhead.

2019 STOCKING SCHEDULE AND STOCKING MAP

NORTH COAST LAKES

Town Lake has received a couple small stockings of surplus summer steelhead. This a unique fishing opportunity, these fish can get fairly active in the lake and will hit lures or flies aggressively.

Cape Meares Lake, Hebo Lake, South Lake, Town Lake, Coffenbury, Lost and Sunset lakes all received trophy trout stockings in mid-September. These are really nice trout, usually in the 2–3 pound range. This was the last scheduled stocking for the year.

Most of the North Coast lakes received multiple stockings through May. Many of the lakes have hold over trout from the spring stockings, and this time of year as the nights get colder and water temperatures start to drop those fish will be getting more active.

Check the 2019 trout stocking schedules for these north coast lakes: CAPE MEARES LAKE | COFFENBURY LAKE | CULLABY LAKE | HEBO LAKE | LAKE LYTLE | LOREN’S POND | LOST LAKE | NEDONNA POND | SMITH LAKE | SPRING LAKE | SOUTH LAKE | TAHOE LAKE | TOWN LAKE | VERNONIA LAKE

MID COAST LAKES

Stocking of the mid-coast lakes ended in June. Check the stocking schedule online for dates and locations of stockings. Some of the bigger lakes have “holdover” trout and the fishing typically picks up in the fall when these trout are feeding to prepare for the winter months ahead. In the mid-coast, these lakes include: Olalla, Big Creek reservoirs, Cleawox, Mercer, Munsel, and Siltcoos.

Warmwater fisheries are slowing down for the year as water temperatures cool down.

Check the 2019 trout stocking schedules for these mid coast lakes: ALDER LAKE | BIG CREEK RESERVOIR #1 | BIG CREEK RESERVOIR #2 | BUCK LAKE | CARTER LAKE | CLEAWOX LAKE | DEVIL’S LAKE | DUNE LAKE | ECKMAN LAKE | ELBOW LAKE | ERHART LAKE | GEORGIA LAKE | LOST LAKE (Lane County) | MERCER LAKE | MUNSEL LAKE | NORTH GEORGIA LAKE | OLALLA CREEK RESERVOIR | PERKINS LAKE | SILTCOOS LAGOON | SILTCOOS LAKE | SUTTON LAKE | THISSELL POND | WOAHINK LAKE 

ALSEA RIVER: winter steelhead,

Anglers have caught the first few winter steelhead on the Alsea River. It has been slow and the few fish being caught have been in the lower portions of the river. The popular NF Alsea fishery needs some rain to get the fish up higher in the system. Expect some fish to show up with the next big rain event which is forecasted to arrive next week. Until then, look for  most of the fish to be in the lower river.

Due to low forecasted fall Chinook returns, this year’s daily bag limit has been reduced to 1 wild Chinook per day and 5 per year for the mid-coast aggregate (Siletz River to Siuslaw River).

No wild coho retention for the 2019 season.

Trout fishing in streams will reopen on May 22, 2020.

KILCHIS RIVER: fall Chinook, steelhead

The Kilchis is low and Chinook fishing is slow. Some Chinook have moved up, but in small numbers. That said, the Kilchis has one of the later Chinook runs on the North Coast and therefore is one of the better bets for Chinook this late in the season.

Anglers are reminded that this year’s bag limit for wild Chinook is 1 per day and 5 per year from the North coast aggregate (Necanicum River to Salmon River).

The Kilchis is a mostly wild fish river for steelhead, and as such won’t really kick off until late December. It will also take some rain to get fish moving in.

The catch-and-release fishery for chum salmon is over; there are still a lot of chum around, but they are actively spawning, so anglers should do their best to avoid them and their redds (spawning nests).

Trout season will reopen on May 22, 2020.

NECANICUM RIVER: Chinook, steelhead

Fall Chinook fishing is slowing down for the year; there’s a few fish around but most of these fish will probably be dark and more interested in spawning than biting.

It’s still early for steelhead, but the Necanicum does get an early run of hatchery steelhead. The river is low and clear making for challenging fishing conditions, but for anglers wanting to get an early start on steelhead fishing this is one of the better places to try on the north coast this early in the season. Small presentations, dark colors, and light line will provide the best chance of success under these low, clear water conditions.

Trout season will reopen on May 22, 2020.

NEHALEM RIVER: Chinook

Fall Chinook fishing is slow, and is mostly done for the season.

As of Sept. 16, the bag limit changed to 1 per day and 5 per season, however, if you got your 1 wild Chinook prior to Sept. 16 you may only harvest 4 more from the North Coast aggregate (Necanicum River to Salmon River). The bag limit for jack Chinook salmon will remain 5 per day.

In addition, a “bubble” area has been established in the ocean off the mouth of Nehalem Bay. Beginning July 1, adult wild Chinook caught in the bubble count towards the daily and seasonal bag limit for the Nehalem River and Bay. All other ocean salmon regulations remain in effect. See myodfw.com for details. The ocean closesd to salmon fishing Oct. 31.

Trout season will reopen on May 22, 2020.

NORTH FORK NEHALEM RIVER steelhead

A few steelhead have been caught on the North Fork, but the water is low, clear, and cold making for challenging fishing conditions and not much fish movement. Numbers will be small for now, but if you are wanting to be one of the first to catch a winter steelhead on the North coast, than fishing the North Fork after a rain and while the river is dropping is probably your best bet.

Hatchery coho are mostly done, and Chinook will be winding down as well.

Trout season will reopen on May 22, 2020.

NESTUCCA RIVER, LITTLE NESTUCCA RIVER, AND THREE RIVERS: Chinook, steelhead

The first winter steelhead of the season returned to the Cedar Creek Hatchery last week, and although numbers will be small there are probably a few early returning hatchery fish starting to show up in Three Rivers and the lower Nestucca. The water is low, clear, and cold, so fishing conditions are challenging. Small presentations, dark colors, and light line will provide the best chance of success under these low, clear water conditions.

Fall Chinook should definitely be winding down with the majority of fish on the spawning grounds by now. That said, we’ve seen bright Chinook come out of the Nestucca all the way into December, but it will be low numbers.

Trout season will reopen on May 22, 2020.

We recently received notification from the Oregon Department of Transportation that Farmer Creek Wayside and boat ramp will be closed late this summer through fall of 2020 due to construction associated with the Hwy 101 realignment.

SALMON RIVER: winter steelhead

Winter steelhead fishing is open on the Salmon River and will pick up once we get some much-needed rain. The majority of the winter steelhead on the Salmon River are wild and the run usually peaks around mid-December through February. Expect the first few winter steelhead to show up after the next big rain event.

Due to low forecasted fall Chinook returns, this year’s daily bag limit has been reduced to 1 wild Chinook per day and 5 per year for the north coast aggregate (Necanicum River to Salmon River).

No wild coho retention for the 2019 season.

SILETZ RIVER: winter steelhead

Winter steelhead are starting to show up in the Siletz River. The low water and cold temperatures are not ideal conditions but a few fish are starting to move up the river. The next big rain event expected next week \ should kick off the winter steelhead season on the Siletz. With the next big rain event, fish will be found throughout the river from the gorge down to the head of tidewater.

The 4.0 mile bridge (aka Steel Bridge) in the Siletz gorge is open to motorized vehicles, but is only open to public vehicles on the weekend. Anglers can walk/bike in the road during the weekdays. If anglers do walk in they can park at the one mile gate and start from there.

SILTCOOS & TAHKENITCH LAKES: Coho

Coho fishing has been slow in Siltcoos and Tahkenitch so far this year. The dry, clear and cold weather pattern will slow the number of fish coming into the lakes. Fishing should pick up when the next big rain storm is expected to arrive next week. After the next big rain, fishing should improve and be good through December.  

***Reminder*** Retention of wild Coho is still allowed for the 2019 season, 1 wild adult Coho per day (as well as 1 jack per day) and 5 adult Coho for the year in aggregate with Siltcoos, Tahkenitch, and Tenmile Lakes.

SIUSLAW RIVER: winter steelhead

Winter steelhead typically show up on the Siuslaw River in December and peak January through February. The next significant rain event will have fish on the move headed upriver to the popular Whitaker Creek fishery on the Siuslaw River. Time to get the steelhead gear out for the season.

Lake Creek opened for winter steelhead fishing on Dec. 1. Expect the steelhead fishing to be slow until we get some rain to bring in more fish. Fall chinook retention remains closed on Lake Creek for the remainder of the season.

****Reminder***** Lake Creek (a tributary of the Siuslaw River) is closed for the fall salmon season to protect the forecasted low number of returning Chinook.

Due to low forecasted fall Chinook returns, this year’s daily bag limit has been reduced to 1 wild Chinook per day and 5 per year for the mid-coast aggregate (Siletz River to Siuslaw River).

No wild coho retention for the 2019 season.

TILLAMOOK BAY: Chinook

Chinook fishing on Tillamook Bay is slow and pressure is light. While we are definitely well past the peak of the fall run, Tillamook Bay is known to get some late fish (mostly headed for the Kilchis and Wilson Rivers) and there will be a few fresh Chinook moving through well into December.

TRASK RIVER: Chinook, steelhead

It’s an in between time of year on the Trask. Chinook and coho are mostly done, steelhead haven’t quite started yet. There’s always a chance of catching a late Chinook or an early steelhead, but numbers are going to be very low right now.

Anglers are reminded that this year’s bag limit for wild Chinook is 1 per day and 5 per year from the North coast aggregate (Necanicum River to Salmon River).

Trout season will reopen on May 22, 2020.

Closed from the marker at the Dam Hole (mp 7 on Trask River road) up to Blue Ridge Creek Sept. 1 – Nov. 30.

For anglers planning to fish the Trask River at the popular “hatchery hole,” be advised the hatchery grounds are currently closed to the public.

The hatchery grounds closure does not affect fishing on the river itself, only access through the hatchery grounds. During the hatchery grounds closure, all vehicle and angler access is prohibited until further notice to ensure public safety while the construction is in progress.

Parking is available to anglers on Chance Rd. near the entrance to the hatchery, and anglers can continue to access the river on the trail from the parking area but from there must remain on the riverbank without accessing the main hatchery grounds.

WILSON RIVER: Chinook, steelhead

Chinook fishing on the Wilson is past peak and very slow. In addition the water is low, clear, and cold making for challenging fishing conditions.

Anglers are reminded that this year’s bag limit for wild Chinook is 1 per day and 5 per year from the North coast aggregate (Necanicum River to Salmon River).

The Wilson’s popular winter steelhead run doesn’t really start to show up in any consistent numbers until we get into December, but if you’re feeling lucky there’s always a chance of getting an early fish. That said, for the time being numbers will be very low.

Trout season will reopen on May 22, 2020.

YAQUINA RIVER: winter steelhead

Winter steelhead is open on the Yaquina and Big Elk systems for the season. With the next big rain, winter steelhead will start to show up in the Yaquina/Big Elk systems. January through March is the typical peak for winter steelhead in the Yaquina/Big Elk.

Due to low forecasted fall Chinook returns, this year’s daily bag limit has been reduced to 1 wild Chinook per day and 5 per year for the mid-coast aggregate (Siletz River to Siuslaw River).

No wild coho retention for the 2019 season.

SW FISHING

Weekend fishing opportunities:

• With the recent winter storm, roads may be treacherous and waterbodies may be freezing over, especially at higher elevations. Be sure to check on conditions before heading out.
• Steelhead fishing in the middle Rogue continues to be good.
• Trout and summer steelhead are both open on the upper Rogue, and anglers continue to have good luck catching summer steelhead.
• While access permits, Howard Prairie, Fish Lake or Hyatt still remain great fishing opportunities for trout, especially from pontoons or kayaks.  

2019 STOCKING SCHEDULE AND STOCKING MAP

AGATE LAKE: largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, bullheads

The lake is 11 percent full. The water is low, and the boat ramp is now unusable due to low water levels. Anglers can fish from the shore or from inflatables and kayaks.

APPLEGATE RESERVOIR: largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, trout

The reservoir is 4 percent full. French Gulch is now the only useable boat ramp and is nearing the end of its availability, so be careful when launching a boat. Trout fishing should be good with the cooler temperatures, try trolling a flasher trailed by a wedding ring/night crawler combo, or flasher and a nightcrawler

APPLEGATE RIVER: hatchery trout 

The Applegate River is open to trout fishing only. Only fin-clipped rainbow trout may be retained. All wild cutthroat and rainbow trout must be released unharmed. The release from the reservoir is 150 cfs and the river temperature is 42oF.

ARIZONA POND: rainbow trout

Youth anglers fishing this pond are allowed to keep five trout per day; one of which can be over 20 inches.

Oregon State Parks manages Arizona Pond for anglers ages 17 and under. This is a great place for new anglers to learn fishing techniques, but please remember that the big kids/adults need to stay out of the pool.

BEN IRVING RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, bass, bluegill, yellow perch, crappie

Trout fishing should be good with cooler temperatures -- fall fishing often is productive. Warmwater fishing should be good as well.

BRADLEY LAKE: trout, warmwater species

Bradley Lake was stocked with trout the week of Oct. 14.  Shore anglers are having success casting spinners or fishing PowerBait. Boat anglers are having success trolling small spinners.  

BUTTERFIELD LAKE: trout, warmwater species

Butterfield Lake was stocked with trout the week of Oct 14.

CHETCO RIVER: Chinook

Temporary fishing regulations will be in place Oct. 1 – Dec. 31 this year for wild Chinook salmon. Adult wild Chinook may be harvested, 1 per day and 5 per year, as part of daily or annual salmon/steelhead bag limit. However, of the 5 no more than 2 adult wild Chinook may be harvested for the period of Oct. 1 – Dec. 3.

For more information, please see the in-season regulation change tables here.

See a map of the low water closure area on the Chetco.

COOPER CREEK RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, bass, bluegill, coho and Chinook smolts

The lake was last stocked prior to Labor Day. Trout fishing should be good with fall conditions.

In the last several years, Cooper has been stocked with coho and Chinook salmon juveniles. These are often mistaken for kokanee. Anglers may retain up to 5 salmon juveniles in the reservoir as part of their daily trout bag limit. Please remember to release salmon and trout less than 8 inches.

Warmwater has been good with multiple reports of bass and bluegill. Try fishing for bass around aquatic vegetation in the mid-morning and late afternoon hours.

COOS RIVER BASIN: trout, marine perch species, salmon

Fishing for rockfish inside the bay has been good near the submerged rock piles. Fishing is typically best near slack tide. Boat anglers are no longer able to harvest copper, quillback, or China rockfish for the remainder of the year because we reached our catch limit on these species. A jig with a twister tail can be a great bait for catching rockfish.  

Winter steelhead anglers will start hitting the water in the Coos Basin for the first returning steelhead of the year. Steelhead anglers wanting to fish the South Fork Coos River above Dellwood will need a fishing permit from Weyerhaeuser to access this portion of the river.  

Hatchery steelhead returns in the Coos Basin will be down this year due to low smolt releases two years ago. Because of disease issues at the hatchery then, we were only able to release less than 40 percent of our production goal.  

Trout fishing in streams and rivers will reopen May 22, 2020.  

COQUILLE RIVER BASIN: salmon, trout

Winter steelhead anglers will start fishing along the mainstem Coquille River in areas around Argo and the town of Coquille. Most anglers will plunk in these areas with a Spin-n-Glo tipped with eggs or sand shrimp.  

Trout fishing in streams and rivers is now closed until May 22, 2020.  

DIAMOND LAKE: trout

No recent fishing report.

Make sure to contact Diamond Lake Lodge for up-to-date conditions. Anglers can check fishing and water conditions at Diamond Lake on the Diamond Lake Resort Facebook page, or call 541-793-3333 for updates. Diamond Lake is open year-round. Anglers should also check with the Umpqua National Forest (541-498-2531) for information on seasonal camp and ramp closures.

Diamond Lake has been stocked with tiger and brown trout. These fish are intended to assist in controlling illegally introduced tui chub. These trout are catch-and-release only and need to be released immediately and unharmed if caught.

As part of the 2016 regulation simplification process, Diamond Lake is now back to the Southwest Zone regulation of 5 rainbow trout per day.

EEL LAKE: trout

Trout anglers can still pick up a few holdover rainbow trout from last spring’s stocking.  Trolling flashers and spinners around 10 feet deep has been producing trout for boat anglers. While bank anglers are using bait under a bobber or floating baits on a 4-foot leader off the bottom.  

Approximately 13 miles north of North Bend off Hwy 101, located in Tugman State Park. 

ELK RIVER:  Chinook

Temporary fishing regulations will be in place Oct. 1 – Dec. 31 for wild chinook salmon.  For more information, please see the in-season regulation change tables here.

See a map of the low water closure area on the Elk.

To check current river conditions, call 541-332-0405.

EMIGRANT RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, largemouth and smallmouth bass, crappie, bluegill, bullhead

Warmwater fishing has likely slowed due to the cooler weather. Emigrant reservoir usually does have a few trout left over from the spring that haven’t been caught yet, and they should be feeding right now. Try trolling bait in deeper water or still fishing bait in deeper water.    

The boat ramp at Emigrant is still accessible at Emigrant Lake and the reservoir is 25 percent full.  

EMPIRE LAKES: trout, warmwater species

Upper Empire Lake was stocked with fall trout the week of Oct. 14. Because of low water levels, Lower Empire Lake will not be stocked. Instead, those fish will be released into Upper Empire and Butterfield lakes. Anglers are catching trout by casting spinners or fishing PowerBait near the bottom.  

EXPO POND: rainbow trout, largemouth bass, bluegill, black crappie

Expo pond was last stocked mid-October. Any trout that are left should be biting with the cooler temperatures we are experiencing, try still fishing some bait from the bottom.

Fishing for bass and panfish has likely slowed with the cooler temperatures.  

The Southern Oregon RV Park developed by Jackson County offers parking in the lot to the right as you drive in Gate 5. A $4 day use fee to park applies here, or an annual parking permit can be purchased from Jackson County Parks Department.

FISH LAKE: rainbow trout, brook trout, spring Chinook

Expect snow at Fish Lake this weekend. Trout fishing has been good lately, some large trout are being caught both from boat and the shore. Try trolling a green wedding ring/worm, or small lures such as spoons or rooster-tails. Fly-fishing can also be fun here with brightly colored, flashy streamers.

The water clarity is good by the resort, but decreases elsewhere. The water is cold, about 41 degrees by the resort, so fishing in the late afternoon or evening when fish are more active may be a good bet.

Fish Lake is quickly filling back up. It is now 32 percent full and should continue to fill. The resort ramp is usable for smaller trailered boats, but the resort is now on winter hours and is only open Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Smaller pontoons or kayaks also can be launched from the Forest Service boat ramp, and smaller trailered boats now may be able to be launched here as well, but be careful for submerged tree stumps. Inflatables and kayaks will be a good choice here.  

Tiger trout, Chinook salmon, brook trout, and larger rainbow trout are available. Remember that tiger trout must be immediately released unharmed. Anglers are encouraged to report their catch of tiger trout to fish district staff at 541-826-8774.

FLORAS CREEK/NEW RIVER: Closed to fishing Oct. 1 – Dec. 31

Temporary fishing regulations are now in place through Dec. 31 closing all fishing. For more information, please see the in-season regulation change tables here.

FLORAS LAKE: rainbow trout, cutthroat trout

There is limited bank access, so the lake is best accessed by boat. There’s a public boat ramp is available at Boice-Cope Park. For further detail on this waterbody, please consult the southwest zone section of the ODFW Sport Fishing Regulations book. And, as always, please obtain landowner permission before crossing private land.

FORD’S POND: largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, yellow perch, bluegill, crappie

This shallow pond supports populations of warmwater fish. Bass fishing has been good and can be good any time of year. In addition to bass, there are other warmwater fish species that can make for a fun outing.

Ford’s Pond (just west of Sutherlin) was purchased by the city of Sutherlin in 2016. The pond is open to the public and has a lot of bank access. Ford’s is restricted to electric motors and does not have access for boats on a trailer.

GALESVILLE RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, bass

Galesville has been stocked with a lot of “trophy-size” trout this year and fishing has been good. In addition to trout, the reservoir was stocked with coho smolts until 2015.

In Galesville Reservoir, all landlocked salmon are considered trout and are part of the five-per-day trout limit, with only one trout over 20 inches long allowed for harvest.

Fishing for bass and other panfish has been good. Good areas are near dead snags and the boat ramp. Try a slow retrieve with a diving crank bait.

Call 541-837-3302 for information on camping and boat launching conditions as the reservoir had been well below normal, but is finally filling again.

GARRISON LAKE: rainbow and cutthroat trout

Trout fishing has slowed due to weed growth and lower water. Anglers fishing early morning or late evening have been doing the best. Anglers slow trolling spinners, flies, or wedding ring spinners tipped with a worm all typically do well hooking up with some feisty rainbow trout. Five trout per day/3 daily limits in possession; 8-inch minimum; only one trout over 20 inches long may be taken per day. Bank anglers can find access at the 12th street or Pinehurst boat ramps and off Paradise Point Road. The lake can be very windy so anglers will want to check the weather before heading out.

HEMLOCK LAKE & LAKE IN THE WOODS (Douglas County): trout

Fishing for trout in Hemlock and Lake in the Woods can be good this time of year. Spinners or “plunking” with worms and/or PowerBait can be effective methods for fishing these lakes.

Anglers fishing the high lakes in the Umpqua District are encouraged to e-mail fishing reports. Contact the Forest Service at 541-496-3532 for road conditions and potential road closures. Remember to only keep trout at least 8 inches long, and only one trout over 20 inches per day.

HOWARD PRAIRIE RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass

Expect snow at Howard Prairie this weekend. The reservoir is 32 percent full and has good water clarity. All boat ramps are closed at this time due to low reservoir levels. Inflatables and kayaks can launch from shore.

If you can get a small inflatable or kayak in, try trolling worms or lures. Anglers report catching some big fish at Howard Prairie. With cool water temperatures, the larger trout are active and biting at lures with red and black colors. Bank fishing can still be a good option here if you can get to some deeper areas.  

Howard Prairie has been stocked with our annual “fall fingerlings.”  These trout are not of legal size, but should be by the spring, please be cognizant of the size of fish you are catching and gently release these smaller fish to grow until next year.  

The marina and restaurant, and the campground are now closed for the season.

HUNTER CREEK: Closed to fishing Oct. 1 to Dec. 31

New temporary fishing regulations are now in place through the rest of 2019 closing the creek to all fishing. For more information, please see the in-season regulation change tables here.

HYATT LAKE: rainbow trout, largemouth bass

Expect snow at Hyatt Lake over the weekend. Hyatt Lake is 36 percent full and the boat ramp is not accessible at this time. Inflatables or kayaks can launch from the banks. It is deep enough around the dam to fish from the shore, and this can be a good option for still-fishing bait.

Hyatt Lake has a lot of weeds, which can be problematic for fishing. Now that the water is low, anglers may have to adjust their techniques. There are some large, fat and healthy trout in Hyatt that are likely to bite on bait fished from the bottom or by trolling bait.

Bass are also available at Hyatt, but will be slow to bite now that the weather has cooled.  

Hyatt Lake has been stocked with our annual “fall fingerlings.” These trout are not of legal size, but should be by the spring, please be cognizant of the size of fish you are catching and gently release these smaller fish to grow until next year.  

ILLINOIS RIVER: rainbow trout, cutthroat trout

The Illinois is open for trout fishing, but hatchery fish are not stocked so the fishery is primarily catch-and-release for wild rainbow and cutthroat trout.

LAKE MARIE (Marie Lake): rainbow trout, yellow perch

Lake Marie should be decent with some holdovers from this summer’s stocking. Most anglers use PowerBait or worms to catch trout and yellow perch.

The local STEP hatchery released clipped rainbow trout into Lake Marie for the last three years. Please e-mail Greg.F.Huchko@state.or.us if you catch an adipose fin-clipped fish. This information will help inform ODFW and the local STEP group on the possibility of continuing the project.

LAKE SELMAC (Selmac Lake): trout, largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie

Lake Selmac was stocked the week of Oct. 14 with legal and larger-size trout. Try still fishing bait in deeper parts of the lake. Lures may also be a good bet in areas where aquatic vegetation is not an issue.  

Bass and panfish are available here year-round but may be slow to bite now that the weather has cooled. Aquatic vegetation can be thick in some areas but is beginning to die off. Warmwater fish in Lake Selmac are often found near the shore in the aquatic vegetation.  

LEMOLO RESERVOIR: brown trout, rainbow trout, kokanee

The lake was last stocked before Labor Day. Kokanee in Lemolo are considered trout and therefore fall under the daily limit for trout of 5 per day with only one of those measuring over 20 inches.

Contact Lemolo Lake Resort at 541-643-0750 for weather/road conditions and additional information.

LOON LAKE: rainbow trout, bass, bluegill, crappie

Fishing for crappie, bluegill and bass has been good. Slower presentations such as jigging can be a good technique. Loon was stocked with rainbow trout the week of May 20. Visit the Loon Lake Resort website for information on opening dates and camping. The BLM site is closed until 2020.

LOST CREEK RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, bass

Lost Creek Reservoir was stocked the week of Oct. 2 with legal-size and larger trout and both Tekelma and the Marina boat ramps are accessible. This is probably the best lake for launching larger trailered boats at this time and the trout fishing will continue to be good throughout the fall.

Trout should be biting well with the cool temperatures. Bass and panfish are available here year-round but will be slow to bite now that the weather has cooled. Trolling a wedding ring and worm combination behind an oval egg sinker is always a good bet.

Lost Creek Reservoir is 36 percent full.

Some of the trout have external parasites called copepods. Fish parasites generally do not pose a threat to humans when fish are cooked, and copepods can be scraped off prior to cooking. Anglers are encourage to keep fish that have copepods while staying within the daily limit, since release simply allows the parasite to expand to other hosts.

MEDCO POND: rainbow trout, largemouth bass, bluegill

Fishing for bass and panfish should be good.

PACIFIC OCEAN AND BEACHES: bottomfish, salmon, halibut, surfperch

Bottomfishing is now open to fish at all depths. Fishing for lingcod and rockfish was very good this past weekend. Many anglers caught big lingcod while fishing out past 40 fathoms.  The daily bag limit for marine fish is 5 plus 2 lingcod.

The harvest of cabezon along with copper, quillback, and China rockfish are now all closed to boat anglers. Shore anglers will still be able to harvest these rockfish species (but are encouraged to release them) and 1 cabezon a day.  

Anglers may also choose to fish the offshore longleader fishery outside of the 40-fathom regulatory line, which is open year round. The longleader fishery has a daily bag limit of 10 fish made of yellowtail, widow, canary, blue, deacon, redstripe, greenstripe, silvergray, and bocaccio rockfish. No other groundfish are allowed and offshore longleader fishing trips cannot be combined with traditional bottomfish, flatfish or halibut trips. Find information about a longleader setup here.

Both halibut and ocean salmon fishing are now closed.  

PISTOL RIVER: Closed to fishing Oct. 1 to Dec. 31

New temporary regulations are now in place through Dec. 31 closing the river to all fishing. For more information, please see the in-season regulation change tables here.

PLAT I RESERVOIR: bass, trout

Anglers are having some success catching warmwater species. Spinners and night crawlers are great options for fishing. Plat I was last stocked the week of April 1. The reservoir gets very warm, even in the spring, so the lake will not be stocked with trout again ‘til next year. With temperatures in excess of 80 in the summer, the trout likely don’t survive the summer months. Contact the Sutherlin Chamber of Commerce (541-459-3280) for lake level information.

POWERS POND: trout, warmwater species

Powers Pond was stocked with rainbow trout the week of Oct. 14.  

Largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, and brown bullhead catfish are available year-round.

REINHARDT PARK POND: trout, bluegill, bullhead

Reinhardt Park Pond was last stocked in mid-October. These fish should be biting well with the cooler water temperatures we have been experiencing, try still fishing bait in the deepest parts of the lake.

Bass and panfish are available here year-round, but may be slow to bite now that the weather has cooled.  

This is a great place for a family to explore with very easy access for everyone. A relative simple set up that includes either a nightcrawler fished below a bobber. There are many areas to easily bank fish and the pond is small enough to be able to cover the majority of the water.

ROGUE RIVER

Rogue River, lower: Chinook, steelhead, half pounders

As we ease into fall/winter weather, the water temperature will continue to drop, which should encourage some fish to move up river.

When expecting rain and rising river levels, some people may want to consider switching tactics to anchoring up and back-bouncing eggs. Bank anglers will want to look for fish on inside bends in the river and slots along willow banks.    

Winter s teelhead fishing should start to pick up after Thanksgiving. Anglers might want to try swinging flies or tossing spinners.

Current river flows are reported by the gage in Agness on the USGS website. Note that this gage is above the Illinois River mouth and does not account for that additional water flow.

For a current view of the Rogue from the Isaac Lee Patterson Bridge in Gold Beach, check out the ODOT’s camera.

Rogue River, middle: hatchery steelhead, coho, rainbow trout

Half-pounders are still present in the Rogue Canyon, but anglers are reminded only hatchery trout can be retained.    

Adult steelhead fishing continues to be good throughout the river. Spinners and flies are bringing in some nice large fish as they continue to move upstream. Wild steelhead must be released unharmed. As the most recent storm did not produce much precipitation, steelhead are still holding in the same areas and are slow to move upriver.

Some coho have been reported around Grants Pass. However, most coho on the Rogue are wild and must be released. Only hatchery coho can be retained. Please be mindful to release wild coho back into the river unharmed with minimal handling. Coho are aggressive and bite on flashy spinners with black, pink or purple colors.

Boaters floating from Hog Creek to Graves Creek should be familiar with the rapids in this section of river, and know their takeouts. Experienced oarsmen/woman are recommended here. There are many BLM public access points to bank fish from Hog Creek to Graves Creek. This is often referred to the “Galice area.”  

As of Tuesday morning, the flow in Grants Pass was approximately 1360 cfs and the temperature averaged 43oF. For those interested in checking conditions before getting on the river, the City of Grants Pass Water Division’s website offers information on river conditions at Grants Pass as well as a link to a river camera.

Rogue River, upper: hatchery steelhead, rainbow trout

Above Hog Creek, Chinook fishing is now closed.

Summer steelhead and trout remain open in the upper Rogue, and summer steelhead fishing has been good. Bait restrictions are in effect in some areas so be aware of the regulations where you are fishing. From Fishers Ferry to Shady Cove anglers cannot use bait. A simple setup of bouncing bait, or using lures such a spinner, a plug or a bead can be very effective in steelhead fishing.  

This has been a great run of summer steelhead with not only many fish available, but larger fish as well. Cold, low water has been keeping steelhead from moving around much right now, so if you can figure out where they are holding it can still be good fishing.

Ninety-one new summer steelhead entered the trap at Cole Rivers last week, for a total of 3,037 steelhead to date. Excess hatchery adult summer steelhead from Cole River Hatchery are being recycled back into the fishery and anglers are reporting success in catching these fish. Cole Rivers is starting to see coho back at the hatchery and 68 swam in last week for a total of 114 so far this season.  

Some summer steelhead have red, blue or green tags extending from the top of the fish near the dorsal fin. ODFW encourages anglers that catch these fish to call the upper Rogue office at 541-826-8774.  

The McLeod gage is currently reading 1220 cfs. The Dodge Bridge gage is at 1290 cfs. The river temperature at release is 44oF. For the most current releases of water out of Lost Creek Reservoir, call 1-800-472-2434. For real time streamflow from USGS gauges on the Rogue click here.

Rogue River, above Lost Creek Reservoir: trout

Plenty of naturally produced trout are always present in the upper Rogue, however water has cooled significantly and these fish will be very slow to bite.    

Anglers can cast flies or smaller lures like a Panther Martin or rooster tail. Often tipping the lure with bait helps to produce. In slower holes, fishing straight bait such as nightcrawler, Pautzke eggs or even PowerBait will produce.

SAUNDERS LAKE: trout, warmwater species

Saunders Lake was stocked with rainbow trout the week of Oct. 14.

Largemouth bass and bluegill are available year-round.

SIXES RIVER: Chinook

Temporary fishing regulations are now in place through the end of the year for wild adult Chinook salmon. For more information, please see the in-season regulation change tables here

See a map of the low water closure area on the Sixes.  

SMITH RIVER, Umpqua: steelhead

Smith River opens up to Bridge 10 on the North Fork and Sisters Creek on the mainstem beginning Dec. 1. There might be a few early steelhead lower down.

Chinook closes on Dec. 1.

SPALDING POND: trout, largemouth bass, bluegill, brown bullhead

Spalding is stocked with trout and fishing should be good.

Spalding pond is located on USFS land between Grants Pass and Selma.

SODA SPRINGS RESERVOIR: closed

Soda Springs remains CLOSED. The reservoir is closed to evaluate its use by salmon and steelhead.

SRU LAKE: trout

Sru Lake has been stocked with legal-size rainbow trout.

Located on the US Forest Service’s Powers Ranger District, nearly 20 miles south of Powers. 

TENMILE CREEK: trout

Tenmile Creek is open to steelhead fishing but Eel Creek won’t open to fishing until Jan. 1.

Trout fishing in rivers and streams will reopen May 22, 2020.  

TENMILE LAKES: trout, warmwater species, largemouth bass

Bass anglers will need to slow down their presentation as the water temperatures continue to drop.  Anglers are catching most of the bass along the deeper weedlines and submerged trees.

Yellow perch are cruising on the deep water mud flats. Most of the fish are under 10-inches long but anglers are catching a few 12 inch-plus fish.     

Trout anglers continue to troll for trout. A few trout have been caught on bait by anglers targeting yellow perch.  

TOKETEE LAKE: brown trout, rainbow trout

Fishing is open in Toketee year-round, but it’s currently pretty slow. Try fishing the upper end of the lake. Water levels can fluctuate making launching boats difficult so contact the U.S. Forest Service at 541-498-2531 for lake level information.

UMPQUA HIGH LAKES AND FOREBAYS: trout

Recent reports have indicated some decent fishing at some of the high lakes. A small spinner or fly can be great choices. Contact the Forest Service at 541-496-3532 for road conditions as lakes may still be difficult to access.

Lakes typically accessible from hiking trails and that were stocked in the last couple years are: Calamut, Connie, Bullpup, Fuller, Cliff, Buckeye, Maidu, Pitt, Wolfe and Skookum lakes.

Clearwater Forebay Two can be a great place to fish as well with brook trout and rainbow available.

Red Top Pond offers excellent bank fishing opportunities was stocked in the last week of August. In addition, there should be plenty of holdover legal-size trout from previous stockings in these waterbodies. Anglers fishing the high lakes in the Umpqua District are encouraged to e-mail fishing reports.

UMPQUA RIVER, MAINSTEM: steelhead

Chinook fishing closes Dec. 1. Please note there is no retention of unclipped coho salmon in the river, but fin-clipped coho is open in the river as part of your two adult salmon daily limit.

Steelhead fishing should be starting up on the main. Make sure to turn in snouts from hatchery fish for a chance to win a gift card.

Trout fishing is currently closed on the Main and its tributaries, but will reopen next Memorial Day.

UMPQUA RIVER, NORTH: steelhead, trout

There have been some reports of anglers catching summer steelhead, but it has been slow. We are entering the shoulder season for steelhead and it should pick up for winter steelhead in January. Make sure to turn in snouts from hatchery winter steelhead for a chance to win a gift card.

The North is closed to all fishing for Chinook.

Some of the North Umpqua and tributaries are open for trout (those above Slide Creek Dam): check the fishing regulations to see which areas are closed.

Note that as of Oct. 1, fishing in the fly water area is restricted to the use of a single, barbless, artificial fly.

UMPQUA RIVER, SOUTH: steelhead

The mainstem South reopens to steelhead fishing Dec. 1. Make sure to turn in snouts from hatchery fish for a chance to win a gift card.

WILLOW LAKE: rainbow trout, largemouth bass, black crappie, brown bullhead

The water temperatures at Willow Lake have cooled significantly. Any trout that were left after the summer should be biting again and warmwater fishing will be slowing down. Lake clarity is good and aquatic vegetation should be dying off. Anglers should concentrate on submerged willows or rocky shorelines.

At 52 percent full, Willow Lake remains higher than other reservoirs in the area, but the boat ramp is now closed. Inflatables or kayaks can be launched from the shore.  

WINCHUCK RIVER: Chinook

Temporary fishing regulations are now in place through Dec. 31 this year for wild chinook salmon. Adult wild Chinook may be harvested, 1 per day and 5 per year, as part of daily or annual salmon/steelhead bag limit. However, of the 5 no more than 2 adult wild Chinook may be harvested for the period of Oct. 1 – Dec. 31 This rule does not affect hatchery fish or jacks.

See a map of the low water closure area on the Winchuck.

WILLAMETTE FISHING

Weekend fishing opportunities

• Conditions on Quartzville Creek are good for trout fishing.
• Last week, Alton Baker Canal, Junction City Pond, Row River Nature Park Pond, Timber Linn Lake, Walter Wirth Lake, and Waverly Lake were stocked with one-pound trout.
• Another batch of extra-large rainbow brood trout were released Monday at the following locations: Canby Pond (40), St. Louis Ponds (45), Salish Pond (50), Row River Nature Park Pond, and Henry Hagg Lake (96). These fish range in size from five to 15 pounds. Keep in mind the daily bag limit on trout over 20 inches in length is one fish. Additional brood trout will likely be released into January, and these releases will be first announced in this column, so stay tuned!

2019 STOCKING SCHEDULE AND STOCKING MAP

ALTON BAKER CANOE CANAL: trout

Last stocked the week of Nov. 18 with 500 trophy-size rainbow trout.

BENSON LAKE: rainbow trout, white crappie, largemouth bass, brown bullhead

Was stocked last spring with 4,000 legal-size trout.

This is a 40-acre lake located in Benson State Park in the Columbia River Gorge. From Portland, head east on I-84; the park is located on the south side of the freeway about 1/2 mile west of Multnomah Falls.

BETHANY POND: rainbow trout, largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, bullhead

Last stocked in mid-April.

This is a 10-acre pond located at Bethany west of Portland. The pond is maintained by Tualatin Hills Park and Rec. Amenities include picnic tables, restrooms, and a paved, ADA accessible trail.

BLUE LAKE: rainbow trout, largemouth bass, brown bullhead, black crappie, bluegill

Last stocked in May with 1,500 legals.

Try fishing from the docks or along the bank near the boat ramp. From October to April private boats are also allowed if under 14 ft. with motors of less than 3.0 horsepower.

This 64-acre lake is located in Blue Lake Regional Park three miles west of Troutdale. Amenities include picnic areas, restrooms, walking trail, and ramp for small boats. Park is maintained by Metro. The cost to enter is $5/car and there is ample parking once inside the park. The park is open from 8 a.m. until legal sunset. For further information call 503-661-6087.

BLUE RIVER: trout

Stocked Dec. 2 with 60 rainbow brood trout ranging in size from five to 15 pounds. Keep in mind the daily bag limit on trout more than 20 inches in length is one fish.

Two wild trout may be harvested per day above Blue River Reservoir only. Otherwise, anglers may keep five hatchery trout per day. Use of bait is allowed April 22 through Oct. 31. Beginning Nov. 1 through April 21, only flies and lures are allowed.

BLUE RIVER RESERVOIR: trout, warmwater species

Was last stocked in late June with 1,467 legal-size and 50 trophy rainbow trout.

Blue River Reservoir is located east of Eugene near the town of Blue River, north of Hwy. 126 and is open to year-round fishing. Blue River Reservoir boat ramps are no longer accessible.

BREITENBUSH RIVER: trout

This river was stocked many times over the summer and should have plenty of fish for anglers to catch.  

This river flows through mostly U.S. Forest Service land into Detroit Lake and is open year-round. Anglers may keep up to five trout per day. Flies and small spinners work well, but bait also is allowed.

As a reminder, salmon fishing is prohibited. If you see salmon spawning or holding in a pool, please keep your distance so as not to disturb them.

CANBY POND: trout, bass, crappie, bluegill

Stocked Dec. 2 with 40 brood trout ranging in size from five to 15 pounds. Keep in mind the daily bag limit on trout over 20 inches in length is one fish.

Canby Pond is a one-acre pond located on the south end of Canby, in Canby City Park. This pond is open only to youth 17 years old and under, as well as persons who have an ODFW Disabled Hunting and Fishing Permit.

CARMEN RESERVOIR: trout

Public access to Carmen Reservoir is prohibited effective immediately, probably until fall of 2020. ODFW will not be stocking trout in the reservoir this summer and all fishing events will be canceled. Closure is due to operations required by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) resulting in reservoir drawdown over the summer.

Ice Cap Campground near the reservoir will remain open. Carmen Reservoir is accessed via USFS Road 750 off Hwy. 126, about two miles south of Clear Lake. It is normally open to fishing all year. Motor boats are prohibited.

CLACKAMAS RIVER: coho, summer steelhead

Coho are now distributed throughout the lower part of the river, the bulk of the hatchery run is over. Coho are now approaching peak spawning and most are no longer good table fare. Fishing effort has slowed down.

It’s now time to start focusing on winter steelhead, which could start showing up any time now.

USGS hydrological data for Dec. 3 shows river flows receding slightly to 923 cfs water temperature cooling a couple of degrees to 41° F, and the gauge height holding at 10.84 ft. All of the readings come from the Estacada gauge near Milo McIver State Park. Hydrologic data and river forecasts can also be accessed on the NOAA/National Weather Service NW River Forecast Center -- NW River Forecast Center.

CLEAR LAKE: trout

Was last stocked the week of Aug. 19 with 2,934 legal and 250 trophy-size trout.

Clear Lake is accessed from Hwy. 126 approximately 70 miles east of Springfield. Linn County’s Clear Lake Resort rents cabins and boats.

COAST FORK WILLAMETTE RIVER: trout

Was last stocked in July with 1,400 legal-size rainbow trout. The river is open to fishing all year for trout, hatchery Chinook salmon, hatchery steelhead, and wild steelhead over 24 inches. Use of bait allowed April 22 – Oct 31, but beginning Nov. 1 anglers may only use lures and artificial flies. In addition to five hatchery trout, two wild trout may be kept daily.

COMMONWEALTH LAKE: rainbow trout, bass, bluegill, crappie

Stocked with rainbow trout in late April.

This is a three-acre stocked lake within the Commonwealth Lake Park in Beaverton, Oregon. Commonwealth Park is maintained by Tualatin Hills Park and Rec. Amenities include ADA accessible trail, picnic tables, playground, and restrooms.

COTTAGE GROVE POND (ROW RIVER NATURE PARK POND): trout, warmwater species

Stocked the week of Nov. 18 with 400 trophy-size rainbow trout.

Cottage Grove Ponds are open to year-round fishing and via an asphalt pathway behind the truck scales on Row River Road. In addition to fishing, these ponds also offer wildlife viewing opportunities and a fishing dock is available on-site.

COTTAGE GROVE RESERVOIR: trout, warmwater species

Was last stocked the week of Sept. 30 with 1,833 trophy-size rainbow trout.

Cottage Grove Reservoir is south of Cottage Grove and is open to fishing all year. Lakeside boat ramp is now open.

DETROIT RESERVOIR: trout, kokanee

This large reservoir was last stocked the week of Oct. 7 with about 3,250 trophy-size trout. Fishing for kokanee is done for the year. Trout are still active and can be found throughout the lake.

Currently, the reservoir is down about 120 feet from summertime full pool. At this low level, even the Mongold State Park low-water boat ramp becomes unavailable for use. Hopefully, this is just a temporary condition and anglers will be able to use the boat ramp again soon.  Check the US Army Corps of Engineer’s website for more information.

NOTICE: Fishing off Detroit Dam is temporarily closed while repairs are being made.  We have been told that this will be the case through Feb. 15.  

Anglers are encouraged to report their catch on forms available at signs and kiosks which have been installed at key locations around the lake. Simply fill out the form and return in the designated drop boxes. There is also an on-line form. Remember to indicate whether the fish you catch have their adipose fin or not. This information will allow ODFW to manage the fishery for the benefit of both recreational anglers and the resource.

DEXTER RESERVOIR: trout

Was last stocked in mid-April with 5,000 trophy-size rainbow trout.

Dexter Reservoir near Lowell is visible from Hwy. 58. Boat and bank access is available from state and county parks. Parking and bank access are also available from the causeway near Lowell. Largemouth bass and some smallmouth are also available to anglers in this reservoir.

DORENA RESERVOIR: trout, warmwater

Was last stocked the week of Oct. 7 with 5,000 trophy-size rainbow trout.  

Dorena Reservoir is east of Cottage Grove on Row River Road and is open to fishing all year. Trout and warmwater fish are available. Baker Bay boat ramp is accessible at the current reservoir elevation.

DORMAN POND - trout

Was last stocked in late April.

This is an 8-acre pond west of Forest Grove at the junction of Hwy. 8 and Hwy. 6

EAGLE CREEK: coho

It’s time to start thinking about coho.

Keep in mind that long stretches of Eagle Creek do run through private property, particularly up near the hatchery and from an area below the lower ladder on down near Bonnie Lure to the mouth. Anglers are advised to pay close attention to where you fish and we encourage you to ask permission prior to accessing or crossing private lands on your way to your favorite fishing hole. See Page 15 of the Oregon Sport Fishing Regulation pamphlet for more information on “Your Rights to Use the Surface, Bed, and Banks of Oregon’s Rivers and Lakes.”

EE WILSON POND: warmwater species, trout

Trout stocking at this pond is done for the season. During the summer and fall, the main quarry switches to bass and panfish such as bluegill and crappie.

The pond was recently re-opened to fishing but the newly installed fishing docks are not usable yet. So please stay off the not-yet-completed fishing docks as well as those sections of the berm that are flagged to allow vegetation to become established.  

This pond is located inside EE Wilson Wildlife Area. To get to it requires a 1/3 mile hike from the parking area.

A parking permit is required and one can be purchased online or at any ODFW office.

ESTACADA LAKE: trout, steelhead

Reopens to trout fishing May 22, 2020. Open year-round for hatchery salmon and steelhead.

At Estacada Lake, anglers also have the possibility of catching larger fare, as both the Clackamas hatchery and PGE recycle steelhead and salmon into this water body.

FALL CREEK: trout

Was last stocked in July with 1,200 legal-size rainbow trout.

Fall Creek is open all year for trout. Beginning Nov. 1, anglers may only use lures and artificial flies. Five hatchery trout and an additional two wild trout may be harvested daily in the river.

Below Fall Creek Dam the creek is open all year for hatchery Chinook, hatchery steelhead and wild steelhead greater than 24 inches.

FALL CREEK RESERVOIR: trout

Was last stocked in April with 1,800 legal and 150 trophy-size rainbow trout.

FARADAY LAKE: trout

Faraday Lake is now closed while PGE updates its powerhouse at Rivermill Dam. This closure is expected to continue through the fall of 2020.

Stocking will resume when the lake reopens.

FERN RIDGE RESERVOIR: largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, brown bullhead

This 9,000-acre lake just 12 miles west of Eugene is the Willamette Basin’s largest water body. As of Oct. 28, all three public boat ramps are out of the water making them unsafe for launching boats. The reservoir level is currently about 21 feet below full pool.  

For local information regarding the lake and available boat ramps, contact the Lane County Parks Department at 541-682-2000.

Bass and crappie fishing usually gets going around mid-April with peak months being May and June. Look for crappie along the weedy edges on the south side of the reservoir. The south shore around Perkins Peninsula as well as along the face of the dam are good spots.

There is good bank access at several rest stops and campgrounds, and three seasonal boat ramps.

FOSTER RESERVOIR: trout, bass, perch, catfish

The reservoir is stocked with trout several times in spring and fall. It was stocked twice in September with about 6,700 rainbow trout. The reservoir is in excellent shape at the moment and the fishing should be fairly good.

This scenic 1,200-acre reservoir on the South Santiam River is located just 30 minutes from Interstate 5. There is good bank access at several rest stops and campgrounds, and three seasonal boat ramps.

The water elevation in the reservoir is down to the level of winter low storage, which means the only available boat ramp is at Sunnyside Park.

Besides trout, look for smallmouth bass and yellow perch near underwater structure and drop-offs. Please remember that only kokanee and adipose fin-clipped trout may be kept as part of the trout bag limit, but there are no limits on size or number of bass. Retention of warmwater fish species such as bluegill, catfish, crappie, and yellow perch is also allowed -- no limit on size or number.

FREEWAY LAKE, EAST: trout, bass bluegill crappie

The lake was last stocked in late May with about 1,000 trout. Fishing for warmwater gamefish such as bass, bluegill, crappie and catfish can be very good, especially early and late in the day in spring and summer. Look for them near downed wood and along the edges of weed. This is one of the best places in the Valley to fish for large crappie.

This water-body actually consists of three interconnected ponds and features some good size bass and crappie. A boat ramp is available at East Freeway Lake, and there is good bank access around Middle Freeway Lake.

GOLD LAKE: brook trout, rainbow trout

CLOSED TO FISHING from Nov. 1 to May 22. Gold Lake has special fishing regulations in place that include no retention of rainbow trout, no limit on brook trout, no motorboats, fly-fishing only (has to be a fly rod, no spinning rigs) and barbless hooks.

Gold Lake is a 100-acre lake located north of the Willamette Pass summit off Hwy. 58 approximately 23 miles southeast of Oakridge.

GREEN PETER RESERVOIR: kokanee, trout, bass

This waterbody was last stocked in late May with about 3,300 trout.  

The water elevation in the reservoir is about 95 feet below full pool at the moment and dropping slowly. Neither Thistle Creek nor Whitcomb boat ramp are usable to launch boats. Check the US Army Corps of Engineer’s website for more information.

Best bet for anglers without a boat is to drive to the top of the reservoir where Quartzville Creek enters the reservoir. Large trout will sometimes forage where the river brings in food swept down from upstream.

Trout as well as bass are good options for anglers this time of year. Look for them near ledges and drop-offs as well as near underwater structure such as submerged logs. Kokanee fishing is done for the season as the older, larger fish have moved up into the tributaries to spawn. The bag limit for kokanee is 25 fish per day in addition to the 5 trout daily limit.

HALDEMAN POND: trout

The pond was last stocked in late April. This is a two-acre pond on the Sauvie Island Wildlife Area that offers good bank access. This site is ideal for kids. A parking permit is required while on the wildlife area. Permits are available from all ODFW license vendors.

HARTMAN POND: trout, crappie, bass, catfish

Was last stocked in late May.

This is a year-round warmwater and spring trout fishing pond in the Columbia River Gorge, with easy access for non-boating anglers just off Interstate 84. It is stocked with legal- and trophy-size trout in the spring and also supports year-round populations of crappie, bass and catfish. From I-84, take the Benson State Park exit. The pond is adjacent to the Columbia River adjoining Benson State Recreation Area.

HARRIET LAKE: trout

Stocked the first week of September with 2,000 trout.

Harriet Lake is a 23-acre reservoir on the Oak Grove Fork of the Clackamas River in the Mount Hood National Forest. Boat ramp is just past campground.

HENRY HAGG LAKE: rainbow trout, smallmouth bass, yellow perch, largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, brown bullhead, yellow bullhead, native cutthroat trout

Stocked on Dec. 2 with 96 rainbow brood trout ranging in size from five to 15 pounds. Keep in mind the daily bag limit on trout over 20 inches in length is one fish.

Located near Forest Grove, Hagg Lake is one of Oregon’s premier warmwater fishing locations, with populations of record-class largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, crappie and bullhead. It also supports a resident population of native cutthroat trout and is frequently stocked with trout. Record-class largemouth bass and brown bullhead can be caught here.

The lake is now open year-round and is stocked regularly throughout the spring and fall. Henry Hagg is a 1,110-acre lake waterbody located seven miles southwest of Forest Grove.

Maintained and operated by Washington County, the park features numerous picnic areas, two boat launching facilities, more than 15 miles of hiking trails, and observation decks for wildlife and bird watching.

HILLS CREEK RESERVOIR: trout, warmwater fish

Last stocked the week of Sept. 23 with 3,200 legal-size rainbow trout.

Hills Creek Reservoir is located about four miles southeast of Oakridge and is open to year-round fishing. In addition to catchable-size trout, the reservoir is stocked with 60,000 adipose fin-clipped rainbow trout fingerlings and 100,000 adipose fin-clipped spring Chinook salmon fingerlings annually to provide a harvest fishery the following year.

Trout and salmon must be adipose-fin clipped to be harvested. Large native trout are available for catch-and-release fishing. Packard Boat Ramp remains accessible at current reservoir elevation.

HUDDLESTON POND: trout, bass, bluegill

Was last stocked with rainbow trout in May.

This is a 5-acre pond located within Huddleston Pond Park in the city of Willamina, Ore. A former mill pond, this venue has "kid-friendly" edges, is ADA accessible in places, with a restroom and picnic areas nearby.

JUNCTION CITY POND: trout, crappie

The pond was last stocked the week of Nov. 25 with about 1,000 trophy-size trout. In recent weeks it has also received some extra-large brood trout weighing in excess of 5 pounds. It will be stocked semi-regularly throughout the winter. Anglers are reminded that you are allowed to keep one trout over 20-inches as part of the five fish bag limit.

LEABURG LAKE: trout

Was last stocked the week of August 12 with 933 legal-size rainbow trout.

Leaburg Lake is open to fishing all year. Bait can be used from April 22 – Oct. 31, but beginning Nov. 1, anglers may only use lures and artificial flies. All wild trout must be released. Only hatchery fish may be kept.

MCKENZIE RIVER below Leaburg Lake (R1): trout, salmon, steelhead

Was last stocked the week of Sept. 2 with 2,000 legal-size rainbow trout. River levels have remained consistent and fishing should remain productive.

All non-adipose fin-clipped trout must be released unharmed. Check page 46 of the 2018 Sport Fishing Regulations for bait restrictions in the segment you plan to fish. Beginning Nov. 1, anglers may only use lures and artificial flies.

The lower McKenzie River is open to retention of adipose fin-clipped salmon and steelhead and non-adipose fin-clipped steelhead greater than 24 inches long. A Columbia River Basin Endorsement is required for anglers targeting salmon and steelhead in the McKenzie.

MCKENZIE RIVER above Leaburg Lake (R2): trout, steelhead

Was last stocked the week of Sept. 9 with 1,833 legal-size rainbow trout.

All non-adipose fin-clipped trout must be released unharmed. Bait is allowed from Leaburg Dam to Forest Glen Boat Ramp from April 22 – Oct 31. As of Nov. 1, anglers may use only lures and artificial flies.

MIDDLE FORK WILLAMETTE RIVER: trout, salmon, steelhead

The Middle Fork Willamette River is open to bait below Dexter Dam only. Reminder: Restrictions from Dexter Dam to approximately 700 feet downstream to the markers: No angling from the north shore, from a floating device, or while wading (page 44 in regulations). This river reach is open to retention of adipose fin-clipped salmon and steelhead and non-adipose fin-clipped steelhead greater than 24 inches long.

A Columbia River Basin Endorsement is required for anglers targeting salmon and steelhead in the Middle Fork Willamette below Dexter Dam.

The Middle Fork Willamette above Lookout Point and Hills Creek reservoirs is open to fishing using lures and artificial flies. All wild trout must be released upstream of Lookout Point Reservoir. The Middle Fork Willamette River is not stocked with hatchery trout.

MOLALLA RIVER: winter steelhead, spring Chinook, steelhead

The Molalla is still too low but with winter steelhead starting to show up at Willamette Falls it is not to0 early to start targeting this popular winter species, most likely around the  around the mouth of the river.

USGS hydrological data for the Molalla as of Dec. 3 shows flows dropping to 184 cfs, with a gauge height of 10.11 feet. All of the readings come from the Canby gauge.

MT HOOD POND: trout, crappie, bluegill

Mt. Hood Pond is located on the Mt. Hood Community College campus in Gresham, at 26000 SE Stark St.

Fishing at this location is restricted to youths age 17 and under and Disabled Angler licensees from April 1 - Aug. 31.

NORTH FORK RESERVOIR: hatchery salmon, hatchery steelhead.

Reopens to trout fishing May 22, 2020.

North Fork Reservoir is a 350-acre reservoir of the Clackamas River behind North Fork Dam approximately 5.2 miles east of Estacada, Ore. This reservoir has two boat ramps, boat moorage, 50 campsites, picnic areas, boat rentals, grocery story, fueling station, and ADA-accessible fishing platforms. It is big and deep enough, and is fed by the upper Clackamas River, to stay cool longer into the summer than most of the other lakes and ponds.

OLALLIE LAKE: trout

This is the largest of more than 200 lakes within the Olallie Lake Scenic Area. Located on the southern edge of the Mt. Hood National Forest it is a popular summer recreational destination for people from Portland and Salem, Ore. There are three campgrounds and a rustic cabin resort on this lake as well as a hiking trail that encircles the perimeter. Yurts, cabins, and boat rentals are available at Olallie Lake Resort.

There is a boat ramp at Peninsula Campground on the southwest shore of the lake. Camping is also available at Olallie Meadows Campground and Paul Dennis Campground. Olallie Lake is also a popular jumping off point for backpackers who want to fish the surrounding high lakes or access the Pacific Crest Trail.

PROGRESS LAKE – rainbow trout, brown bullhead

Last stocked in April.

This is a 4-acre pond next to the Progress Ridge Town Center in Beaverton. The pond is an old rock pit and has a maximum depth of 54 feet. There is a sidewalk, fishing platform and viewing platform on one side of the lake. It is deeper than many Willamette Valley ponds and thus stays cool and “fishable” longer into the summer than shallower ponds.

QUARTZVILLE CREEK: trout

This river above Green Peter Reservoir is usually stocked between May and July. It was stocked for the last time this year in late July with about 1,700 trout. Recent dry weather have brought river levels down to around 80 cfs. At the moment, fishing conditions are good.

Anglers should take advantage of these conditions before the rains swell the river and make fishing difficult. (Best conditions for fishing are below 300 cfs.)

Trout are active year-round and anglers are allowed to keep up to five fish daily.

SALISH POND: trout, warm water species

Stocked on Dec. 2 with 50 rainbow brood trout ranging in size from five to 15 pounds. Keep in mind the daily bag limit on trout over 20 inches in length is one fish.

Parking is available at the school after 5 p.m. weekdays and all weekend. Parking is no longer available adjacent to the pond along Glisan St. Informational signs regarding use of the area have been posted by the City of Fairview around the pond’s shoreline.

SALMON CREEK: trout

Was last stocked in August with 250 legal-size rainbow trout.

Salmon Creek is open to fishing all year. As of Nov. 1 anglers may use only lures and artificial flies. Trout are released at multiple locations upstream to Black Creek. Two wild trout per day, 8-inch minimum length, may be kept in addition to five hatchery trout.

SALMONBERRY LAKE: trout, sunfish

The lake was last stocked in April with 1,000 rainbow trout.

Salmonberry Lake is owned by the city of St. Helens and is about three acres in size. It is a former municipal water supply secluded in the woods off Pittsburgh Road. The road to the pond is gated and anglers must walk about 1/3 mile to access this pond.

SALT CREEK: trout

Salt Creek is an unstocked tributary to the Middle Fork Willamette River east of Oakridge. Salt Creek and its tributaries are open to fishing all year. As of Nov. 1 anglers may only use lures and artificial flies. Two wild trout may be kept per day, 8-inch minimum length.

SANDY RIVER: coho, steelhead                    

Hatchery coho in the Sandy River are past their peak migration. Fishing pressure is light with most anglers hoping for the first winter steelhead of the season, which could show up any time. The Sandy can provide a spectacular winter steelhead fishery when it is in full swing, usually in late December through March

USGS hydrological data for Dec. 3 shows Sandy flows still low and receding due to the absence of precipitation, with a current discharge of  577 cfs, a gauge reading of 8.12 feet and the water temperature on the Little Sandy at Bull Run running chilly at 37° F.

SANTIAM RIVER (NORTH FORK): steelhead, coho, trout

Flows have come back down since last week, currently around 1,900 cfs at the Mehama gage. River levels best for fishing are at or below 3,000 cfs.

There are still a fair number of summer steelhead in the river, mostly in the upper part of the basin.

The main quarry for anglers this time of year is coho salmon. Over 8,700 adults have migrated above Willamette Falls so far this fall with a good proportion of these fish headed to the North Santiam. About 300 or so have migrated upstream of Stayton, which means there are many more downstream. Best bet for anglers is to concentrate their efforts in the sections between Mehama and Shelburn.  

The bag limit for coho is 2 fish per day.

Meanwhile, the river is now closed to trout harvest until May 22 of next year.  

Notice:  The counting station at Bennett Dam is currently funded through December of this year.  

SANTIAM RIVER (NORTH FORK) above DETROIT: trout

This section of the river is open year-round for trout. It was last stocked in late July with about 3,000 trout. Most trout can be found from Marion Forks down to the mouth and are fairly well distributed. Flies and spinners work best, but bait is allowed. The river is flowing at around 400 cfs where it comes into Detroit Lake.

This time of year, the fishing can be hit or miss. Try drifting small nymphs or egg patterns along the edges of fishing lanes. The crowds have also vanished giving the intrepid angler more solitude.  

Anglers may keep up to five trout per day. This section of river is closed to salmon fishing.

SANTIAM RIVER (SOUTH FORK): steelhead, Chinook, bass, trout

Flows have been pretty stable over the last few weeks, currently around 1,240 cfs and should remain so over the next few weeks. Most of the fish destined for the South Santiam have already arrived. They can be found for the most part below the deadline at Wiley Creek Park and in sections downstream.  

Fishing is generally best when flows are below 3,000 cfs.

The entire river is now closed to trout fishing.

SHERIDAN POND: trout

The pond was last stocked in early June with 1,000 legal trout.

Sheridan Pond is a 2 1/2-acre pond located on the edge of town. It provides excellent access for families and kids. Good parking. There is an outhouse provided. To get to Sheridan Pond, take Hwy. 18 to Exit 33 onto Balston Rd. Go south on Balston Rd. approximately half a mile and turn left onto a gravel road leading about a quarter mile to the pond.

SILVER CREEK RESERVOIR: trout, catfish

The reservoir was last stocked in June with 2,600 trout, including 250 trophies.

This is a 65-acre reservoir on Silver Creek 2.5 miles south of Silverton on Hwy. 214.

SMALL FRY LAKE: trout

Stocked the week of Sept. 16 with 300 trout. This is small pond next to Promontory Park and North Fork Reservoir near Estacada. Fishing restricted to youths 17 and under. Cleaning station, restroom nearby. It is small and shallow and therefore subject to aquatic vegetation, so bear that in mind before venturing out to this location for a day of fishing with the kids.

North Fork Reservoir is located just a few steps away and offers a decent back-up plan for those times when aquatic vegetation makes fishing at Small Fry difficult or impossible. However, North Fork is closed to trout fishing from now until May 22, 2020 but open year-around for hatchery steelhead and hatchery salmon.

SMITH RESERVOIR: trout

The Eugene Water & Electric Board has begun a five-year construction project to retrofit, refurbish and upgrade capital equipment at its Carmen-Smith Hydroelectric Project. The work is being conducted in anticipation of a new federal operating license for the project.

The capital construction projects planned for the 2017-2021 time frame will create significant public access constraints due primarily to safety concerns. In order to keep the public and construction personnel safe during the five-year project, EWEB and the Forest Service agreed to close access to Forest Road 730 at the Powerhouse. The closure will deny public access to Trail Bridge Campground, Smith Reservoir and Lake’s End Campground. The closure of the road to the public will begin in March 2017 and continue through 2021.

ST. LOUIS PONDS: trout, bass, crappie, bluegill, yellow perch, channel catfish

Stocked on Dec. 2 with 45 rainbow brood trout ranging in size from five to 15 pounds. Keep in mind the daily bag limit on trout over 20 inches in length is one fish. Fish from earlier stockings could still be around, although there has been a lot of fishing pressure.

The gate at the entrance to the ponds is now closed until spring, although the ponds themselves remain open during daylight hours to those who are willing to park at the gate and walk in.

St. Louis Ponds is a 54-acre complex of seven ponds jointly owned and managed by ODFW and Marion County Parks. ODFW has made a number of improvements at the ponds in recent years, including a paved ADA accessible trail and a couple of ADA accessible fishing platforms. In addition to stocked trout, the ponds contain several species of warmwater fish, including largemouth bass, catfish, bluegill, crappie and sunfish.

St. Louis Ponds is located 13 miles north of Salem and west of I-5. To get to there from I-5, take the Woodburn exit. Then go east to Hwy. 99E. At Hwy. 99E, head south to Gervais Road. Go west on Gervais Road through the town of Gervais. The road eventually changes to St Louis Road. Continue west on St Louis Road as it crosses over I-5 to Tesch Road, at the railroad crossing. Go left on Tesch Road and follow the signs to the ponds.

SUNNYSIDE PARK POND: trout, bass, bluegill

The final spring trout stocking for this waterbody took place in June.  

This 4-acre pond is located two miles above the upper end of Foster Reservoir. The pond also offers bluegill and largemouth bass year round. The park has a campground and picnic area and is a great place to take kids fishing. There is also boat ramp access to the Middle Fork arm of Foster Reservoir. Please keep in mind that only one fish over 20 inches may be kept per day.

To get there from I-5, take US 20 through the town of Sweet Home and continue around Foster Reservoir to Quartzville Creek road. Take a left and follow this road for two miles to the park.

TIMBER LINN LAKE: rainbow trout

The lake was last stocked the week of Nov. 25 with 500 trophy trout. This waterbody also was stocked the week of Nov. 18 with about 40 extra-large brood trout. As a reminder to anglers, only one fish over 20 inches is allowed as part of the 5 fish bag limit.

This is a family-friendly fishing pond located within Timber-Linn Memorial Park in Albany. Timber-Linn Lake can be reached by turning east off I-5 onto the Santiam Highway (Hwy. 20), then immediately turning north onto Price Road and proceeding to the park entrance.

TIMOTHY LAKE: trout

Was last stocked in early August.

TRAIL BRIDGE RESERVOIR: trout

The Eugene Water & Electric Board has begun a five-year construction project to retrofit, refurbish and upgrade capital equipment at its Carmen-Smith Hydroelectric Project. The work is being conducted in anticipation of a new federal operating license for the project.

The capital construction projects planned for the 2017-2021 timeframe will create significant public access constraints due primarily to safety concerns. In order to keep the public and construction personnel safe during the five-year project, EWEB and the Forest Service agreed to close access to Forest Road 730 at the Powerhouse.

The closure will deny public access to Trail Bridge Campground, Smith Reservoir and Lake’s End Campground. The closure of the road to the public started in March 2017 and will continue through 2021.

ODFW has discontinued stocking of Trail Bridge reservoir for the duration of the closure – hatchery fish allocated to the reservoir are being redistributed to other stocked waterbodies. Only adipose fin-clipped trout may be harvested from Trail Bridge Reservoir. Only flies and lures may be used.

TRILLIUM LAKE: trout        

Stocked with 3,850 hatchery rainbows, including 250 trophies, the week of Sept. 23.

TROJAN POND: trout, panfish

The pond was last stocked in late April. Warmwater fishing should be good this time of year.

Trojan Pond is a 15-acre pond located approximately 4.5 miles southeast of Rainier on the north side of Hwy. 30 at the old Trojan nuclear facility site. The pond is located on the right side of the road as soon as you turn onto the Trojan Access Road.

TUALATIN RIVER AND TRIBUTARIES: trout

The Tualatin and its tributaries are now open year-round for trout under the 2019 Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations. Fishing shifts to catch-and-release for trout from Nov. 1 to May 21. Fishing and harvest of warmwater fish is also allowed during this period.

WALLING POND: trout, crappie, bass

This pond was stocked the week of Nov. 11 with about 400 legal and trophy-size trout.

This is an eight-acre privately-owned pond with public access in Salem at the northeast corner of McGilchrist and 16th Streets, S.E.

WALTER WIRTH LAKE: trout, crappie, bass

This water body has been stocked several times this fall, including 38 large brood trout that were released on Tuesday, Nov. 12. It was last stocked the week of Nov. 25 with 1,300 trophy size fish.  

Walter Wirth is a 20-acre lake located within the City of Salem’s Cascades Gateway Park with good access all the way around.

WAVERLY LAKE: trout, bluegill, catfish

This lake was stocked the week of Nov. 25 with 700 trophy-size trout. It has been stocked several times this fall including about 40 extra-large brood trout that were released a few weeks ago. Anglers may keep only one fish over 20-inches as part of their 5 trout bag limit.

In the summer months anglers can pursue bass, bluegill and bullhead catfish.    

From I-5 take exit 234 west towards Albany. The pond is located a quarter mile down Pacific Boulevard on the right. A paved ADA-accessible path runs all the way around the pond.

WILLAMETTE RIVER: catch-and-release sturgeon, steelhead

Coho and Chinook salmon passage is done for the year.

The next big move for the Willamette will be the arrival of winter steelhead, which are just beginning now, with daily crossings in the low single digits. Look for those numbers to increase over the next couple of months.

Warmwater fishing remains as a viable option for anglers in the lower Willamette as does catch-and-release white sturgeon fishing, which can be good this time of year.

Farther upstream, the section between Albany and Harrisburg is open year-round for trout fishing, which can be very good when flows are cooperating. Anglers may keep two trout per day.

Hydrological data for the Willamette at Willamette Falls on Dec. 3 showed flows at 7,720 cfs, visibility at 9.0 ft., and a water temperature at 40 degrees.

CENTRAL FISHING

Weekend Fishing Opportunities:

• With the recent winter storm, roads may be treacherous and waterbodies may be freezing over, especially at higher elevations. Be sure to check on conditions before heading out.
• With fall Chinook spawning on the lower Deschutes, anglers should consider egg patterns for targeting trout.
• Steelhead anglers on the lower Deschutes should concentrate on the Maupin to Warm Springs section.
• Trout anglers can target the Crooked, lower Deschutes and Metolius rivers, where fishing for native redbands can be good throughout the year.

2019 STOCKING SCHEDULE AND STOCKING MAP

ANTELOPE FLAT RESERVOIR: rainbow trout

Fall sampling revealed excellent numbers of fish ranging from 8-16 inches with most averaging 12 inches. The majority of fish were caught within 40 feet from the bank. The water level is excellent for this time of year, only about 10 feet below the paved portion of the ramp.

BIKINI POND: rainbow trout

The pond has been stocked this fall. No recent reports.

CENTURY GRAVEL POND: rainbow trout

The pond is located ¼ mile west of the junction of USFS Rd 46 (Century Drive) and USFS Rd 4635. Open to fishing all year.

CRANE PRAIRIE RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, brook trout, largemouth bass, kokanee

The reservoir is closed to fishing until April 22, 2020.

CRESCENT LAKE: rainbow trout, brown trout, lake trout and kokanee

Open to fishing all year. One lake trout per day, 24-inch minimum length.

CROOKED RIVER: redband trout, mountain whitefish

Opportunities continue to be excellent for 10- to 16-inch trout and whitefish. Nymph patterns are effective throughout the day, while dry flies are catching fish during evening hatches.

Flows will decrease slightly as the end of irrigation season nears with a goal of around 100 cfs throughout the winter.

CULTUS LAKE, Big: rainbow trout, lake trout

Open to fishing all year.

DAVIS LAKE: largemouth bass, rainbow trout

Open to fishing all year. Fly-fishing only, barbless hooks required. Catch-and-release for trout. No limit on size or number of warmwater fish.

DESCHUTES RIVER, MOUTH TO THE PELTON REGULATING DAM: steelhead, redband trout, whitefish        

Steelhead fishing has been fair from the mouth upstream to Warm Springs. Maupin to Warm Springs is the most likely area to get into some steelhead.

Trout fishing is likely to be slowing down as we enter winter conditions. Fall Chinook spawning is in full swing throughout the Lower Deschutes. Fly anglers should consider an egg pattern for trout action.  

Lake Billy Chinook to Benham Falls: rainbow trout, brown trout

Open year-round for trout. Artificial flies and lures only. No limit on brown trout.

Benham Falls upstream to Little Lava Lake: rainbow trout

Closed to fishing until April 22, 2020.

DEVILS LAKE: rainbow trout

Snow gates west of Mt. Bachelor between Dutchman Flat and Deschutes Bridge are closed for the winter. Open to fishing all year.

EAST LAKE: rainbow trout, brown trout, kokanee

Forest Service Road 21 is closed for the winter at its snow park gate. Open all year to fishing. Wild (unmarked) rainbow trout must be released.

ELK LAKE: brook trout, kokanee, cutthroat trout

Snow gates west of Mt. Bachelor between Dutchman Flat and Deschutes Bridge are closed for the winter. Open to fishing all year. Kokanee limit is 25 per day in addition to daily trout limit. No size limits on kokanee.

FALL RIVER: rainbow trout, brown trout

Anglers report good fishing with some large trout being caught. Open to fishing all year. Restricted to fly-fishing with barbless hooks only.

HAYSTACK RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, kokanee, largemouth bass, black crappie, bluegill

Fishing should be good for warmwater fish and slow for stocked trout.

HOOD RIVER: steelhead

Steelhead fishing has been slow. Anglers should expect a few bright winter steelhead to start showing up this month.

HOSMER LAKE: brook, rainbow and cutthroat trout

Snow gates west of Mt. Bachelor between Dutchman Flat and Deschutes Bridge are closed for the winter. Open to fishing all year. Restricted to fly-fishing only with barbless hooks. Catch-and-release for all species.

LAKE BILLY CHINOOK: bull, brown and rainbow trout, kokanee, smallmouth bass

No recent reports.

Harvest is limited to 1 bull trout over 24 inches under the daily trout limit. Anglers can now keep 5 kokanee in addition to daily trout limit. No bag or size limits on brown trout and bass.

LAKE SIMTUSTUS: bull trout, rainbow trout, smallmouth bass

No recent fishing reports. A tribal permit is required.

LAURANCE LAKE: trout

Closed to fishing until April 22, 2020.

LAVA LAKE, Big: rainbow trout

Snow gates west of Mt. Bachelor between Dutchman Flat and Deschutes Bridge are closed for the winter. Open to fishing all year.

LAVA LAKE, Little: rainbow trout, brook trout

Snow gates west of Mt. Bachelor between Dutchman Flat and Deschutes Bridge are closed for the winter. Open to fishing all year.

METOLIUS POND: trout

Pond is closed to fishing until May 1, 2020

METOLIUS RIVER: rainbow trout, bull trout

Anglers report fair fishing during the warmest part of the day. Catch-and-release for trout including bull trout. Fishing is restricted to fly-fishing only upstream of Bridge 99 (Lower Bridge). Artificial flies and lures permitted below Bridge 99 (Lower Bridge). River is closed to angling above Allingham Bridge until May 22, 2020.  

NORTH TWIN LAKE: rainbow trout

Open to fishing all year.  

OCHOCO CREEK UPSTREAM TO OCHOCO DAM: rainbow trout

Fishing is restricted to artificial flies and lures only; two trout per day with an 8-inch minimum length. Trout 20 inches and greater must be released unharmed.

OCHOCO RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, black crappie, smallmouth bass

Fall sampling revealed excellent numbers and size of bass. Good numbers of trout up to 18 inches long.

ODELL CREEK: rainbow trout

Catch-and-release for trout. Odell Creek is defined as boat ramp at West Davis Lake campground upstream to Odell Lake.

ODELL LAKE: lake trout, kokanee, rainbow trout

Lake is closed to fishing until April 22, 2020.

PAULINA LAKE: brown trout, rainbow trout, kokanee

Forest Service Road 21 is closed for the winter at its snow park gate. Open all year to fishing. Wild (unmarked) rainbow trout must be released.

PINE NURSERY POND: trout, largemouth bass

Limit is 2 fish per day.

PINEHOLLOW RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, largemouth bass, bluegill

No recent reports, but fishing should still be good from earlier fall stocking. Water levels are low. The south boat ramp has been reopened.

PRINEVILLE RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, largemouth and smallmouth bass, crappie

No recent fishing reports.

PRINEVILLE YOUTH FISHING POND: rainbow trout and largemouth bass

No recent reports.

Bullhead catfish have recently been discovered in the pond. Catfish will not count towards the 2 fish bag limit as these unwanted fish need to be removed.

ROCK CREEK RESERVOIR: rainbow trout

No recent reports.

SHEVLIN YOUTH FISHING POND: rainbow trout

Open to youth only (17 years and under) and disabled anglers. Limit is two fish per day.

SOUTH TWIN LAKE: rainbow trout

Open to fishing all year.  

SPARKS LAKE: cutthroat trout, brook trout

Snow gates west of Mt. Bachelor between Dutchman Flat and Deschutes Bridge are closed for the winter. Open to fishing all year. Fly-fishing only, barbless hooks required.

SPRAGUE POND: rainbow trout

Turn at Cow Meadow sign off USFS Rd 40. Take first left at first dirt road and follow road to pond. Open to fishing all year.

SUTTLE LAKE: brown trout, kokanee

Open to fishing all year. Bull trout must be released unharmed. Twenty-five kokanee per day in addition to daily trout limit. No size limits on kokanee. Please call ODFW @ 541-388-6145 to report any small mouth bass caught.

TAYLOR LAKE (Wasco County): rainbow trout, largemouth bass

No recent reports. Trout fishing should be picking up soon.

THREE CREEK LAKE: rainbow trout, brook trout

Open to fishing all year.

TODD LAKE: rainbow trout, brook trout

Snow gates west of Mt. Bachelor between Dutchman Flat and Deschutes Bridge are closed for the winter. Open to fishing all year.

WALTON LAKE: rainbow trout

No recent fishing reports.

WICKIUP RESERVOIR: kokanee, brown trout, rainbow trout, largemouth bass

The reservoir is closed to fishing until April 22, 2020.

SE FISHING 

Weekend Fishing Opportunities:

• With the recent winter storm, roads may be treacherous and waterbodies may be freezing over, especially at higher elevations. Be sure to check on conditions before heading out.
• Many lakes and reservoirs are freezing overnight, but then melting during the day in time for afternoon trout fishing.
• Best bet remains the Klamath River below Keno Dam and JC Boyle dam to the Frain Ranch
• Instead, consider Ana Reservoir and River, as these spring fed waterbodies remain a constant temperature throughout the year and don’t freeze.

2019 STOCKING SCHEDULE AND STOCKING MAP

ANA RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout, hybrid bass

Anglers reported catching a lot of rainbows and a few wipers trolling Rapalas throughout the reservoir in fall. Try colors that imitate tui chub and rainbow trout, favorite food sources for both trout and hybrid bass. Bait fishing can also be productive at this reservoir. People can also do well fly-fishing with leech and minnow imitations for both rainbow trout and hybrid bass. This reservoir never freezes over and is a great opportunity to catch fish throughout the winter months.

The new state record hybrid bass (white and striped bass cross) was caught in Ana Reservoir on Dec. 10, 2014. The fish was caught using a Rapala crankbait on 10 lb. test line and measured 31½ inches with a girth of 24 inches. The fish weighed 19 lbs. 12 oz.

Another 16-pound hybrid bass was caught last year and hybrid bass larger than 20 inches are not uncommon. Hybrid bass are targeted successfully using crank baits and fishing bait along the bottom.

Read 12 tips for catching wipers in Ana Reservoir.

ANA RIVER: hatchery rainbow trout

This river was stocked last month with 250 larger rainbow trout (1 lb). There have not been any recent fishing reports, but fishing should be great as these fish are settling into their new home. Fish will be rising for flies midday, as usual. Small beadhead flies will be the most effective, but small dry flies and leech patterns will work. Lure and bait fishing can also catch plenty of fish.

Ana River is a great year-round fishery that never freezes over with a rainbow trout limit of 5 fish with an 8-inch minimum length. The Ana River is spring fed at 58F and rainbow trout are active throughout the year. Anglers can access these trout by floating the river in a float tube or by walking the banks. Bait is allowed and fly-fishing can be great.

Ana River is a great match-the-hatch fly-fishing river with good hatches throughout the year. Hatches typically occur during the afternoon from 12-3 p.m. the best time. Small mayfly hatches are typically best on overcast days with light rain. Tui chub and pit roach are abundant in the river therefore casting large flies or lures can be effective for catching larger fish. Ana River has good trout fishing 365 days a year.

ANNIE CREEK: brook trout, brown trout and rainbow trout

Fishing in Annie Creek is very slow due to cold water temperatures, low productivity and high flows. Most of the creek is dominated by small brook trout up to 10 inches. Brown trout are rare and redband trout are highly unlikely in the catch.

The creek is open year-round and bait is allowed.

Access is available year-round off Hwy. 62 at the USFS snow park. There is plenty of public property on USFS, State Forest and Crater Lake National Park -- fishing is regulated by the National Park (541-594-3000).

Several waterfalls occur on the creek inside Crater Lake National Park offering exceptional views.

ANTHONY LAKE: rainbow trout, brook trout

The lake received a fall stocking of rainbow trout the last week of September. Fishing has been good, with fishing from floating devices the most productive.

With recent cold temperatures ice will begin to form on the lake.

BALM CREEK RESERVOIR: rainbow trout

Fishing has been good for rainbow trout running 8- to 15-inches long. Recent sampling by ODFW indicates good numbers of trout averaging 12-inches long. Reservoir water level is quite high for this time of year.

With recent cold temperatures ice will begin to form on the lake.

BECK KIWANIS POND (aka Beckers Pond): rainbow trout, Largemouth bass, bluegill

The pond was stocked in early October with 2,000 legal-size trout.

BEULAH RESERVOIR: redband trout, hatchery rainbow trout, whitefish, bull trout

As of Dec. 4, the reservoir is 33 percent full. Fishing for trout may be fair, but ice may limit fishing access until it becomes thick enough for ice fishing.

BIG ROCK RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout

Fishing has been excellent for 8- to 10-inch rainbow trout, but it might be frozen-over in the mornings. Fly-anglers casting water boatmen were getting bites and fish on every cast! As the water temperature increases during midday, the trout start feeding more heavily.

BLITZEN RIVER: redband trout

Fly-fishing has been very productive this fall, anglers have reported catching some nice redband trout in the 16 inch range between Page Springs and South Steens Campground.

Large streamers and other nypmhs work well on the Blitzen throughout the year. There are also various hatches that anglers can take advantage of so keep a selection of dry flies handy.

Current flow at Page Springs Weir is 543 cfs with water temperatures in the 30s.

Check this link to the Blitzen gauge

BLUE LAKE (Gearhart Wilderness): hatchery rainbow trout

Snow is limiting access and the lake will be frozen until spring comes.

BULLY CREEK RESERVOIR: trout, bass, channel catfish, crappie

Fishing for trout may improve as water temperatures cool. The reservoir is 47 percent full as of Nov. 26.

BURNS GRAVEL POND: trout, bass

The pond was stocked with legal-size rainbows this fall and holdover trout have recently been caught indicating some trout have survived the summer. Ice has formed over the pond but is only 2 inches thick. Ice fishing may be possible soon depending on weather.

BURNT RIVER: rainbow trout

The South Fork Burnt River was stocked last spring with approximately 2,000 legal-size rainbow trout.

To measure the catch rate of trout stocked in the South Fork Burnt River, ODFW marked some of these with an orange colored tag just under the dorsal fin. If you catch one of these tagged fish, please report the tag number to Tim Bailey, District Fish Biologist at 541-962-1829. Some of these tags will have a $50 reward available.

CALAHAN CREEK (LONG CREEK-SYCAN AREA): brook trout and redband trout

The creek is likely inaccessible due to snow. Open all year. Bait allowed. Most fish in the creek are very small brook trout and less than 8 inches.

CAMPBELL LAKE: hatchery rainbow trout, brook trout

The lake is frozen-over and snow will limit access for the remainder of the winter.

CAMPBELL RESERVOIR: redband trout, largemouth bass, crappie

The reservoir is likely frozen.

CHERRY CREEK: brook trout and redband trout

The creek is mostly inaccessible due to snow. Fishing not recommended at this time. Open all year.

CHEWAUCAN RIVER: redband trout, largemouth bass, brown bullhead

Although the river is open all year round, snow will limit access and ice will severely limit fishable water until spring.

Check the Oregon Water Resources Near Real Time Streamflow website for current flow information.

CHICKAHOMINY RESERVOIR: trout

Trout fishing has been fair this fall with anglers catching some nice fish fly-fishing with leach and blob patterns under indicators.

Ice will likely limit angler access until it becomes thick enough for ice fishing.  

CORRAL CREEK (SF Sprague): brook trout and brown trout

Inaccessible due to snow. Open all year. Bait is allowed. There is a campground and Wilderness trails near the creek. The creek is dominated by small brook trout mostly smaller than 8 inches.

There is an extensive beaver pond complex that has excellent dry fly-fishing for brook trout with a few larger brown trout mixed in.

COTTONWOOD MEADOWS LAKE: hatchery rainbow trout, redband trout, brook trout

The lake might be frozen-over and snow will probably limit access for the remainder of the winter.

COW LAKES: largemouth bass, white crappie, brown bullheads, rainbow trout

Fishing is slow to fair for all species in Cow Lakes currently.  

Fishing reports and sampling data indicate that there is an overabundance of brown bullheads in the lakes. White crappie, bluegill, and large scale suckers were also found during sampling in 2016 with a few of the crappie being very large (10-12 inches).

CROOKED CREEK (Klamath Co): redband trout, brook trout and brown trout

Closed to fishing from November 1-May 21 to protect spawning Redband Trout.

CRYSTAL CREEK redband trout and yellow perch

Closed to fishing from November 1-May 21 to protect spawning Redband Trout.

DEADHORSE LAKE: hatchery rainbow trout

The lake is frozen-over and snow will limit access for the remainder of the winter.

DEEP CREEK (Lake County): redband trout and brook trout

Although the river is open all year round, snow will limit access and ice will severely limit fishable water until spring.

Check the Oregon Water Resources Near Real Time Streamflow website for current flow information.

DELINTMENT LAKE: trout

No recent reports. Fishing should be fair to good for stocked rainbow trout. Recent sampling suggests there are plenty of 8- to 12-inch trout available. Access to this lake may be difficult without a snowmobile.

DEMING CREEK: redband trout and bull trout

Open all year. Most fish in the creek are less than 8 inches. Closed to fishing for bull trout. Any bull trout captured should not be removed from the water.

DEVILS LAKE (FISHHOLE CREEK): largemouth bass, black crappie, yellow perch, brown bullhead

The lake is likely frozen. Water levels are good in the lake but it’s very turbid.

DOG LAKE: yellow perch, bluegill, black crappie, brown bullhead, largemouth bass, redband trout

Snow is limiting access to 4-wheel drive vehicles. The lake should be open after the morning. Try casting bait under a bobber or on the bottom midday to target warmwater fish.  

Most anglers target yellow perch and largemouth bass on this lake, but crappie, bluegill, brown bullhead and redband trout also are present. Only one rainbow trout per day, 15-inch minimum length may be harvested.

DUNCAN RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout and brown bullhead catfish

Snow is limiting access to 4-wheel drive vehicles and the ice is not thick enough to fish from.

Fishing and sampling showed that there are very few rainbow trout in the reservoir. The number of trout at this once fantastic fishery seems to be declining due to the illegal introduction of both largemouth bass and brown bullhead. With continued introductions such as these, all fish species will end up becoming stunted and angler satisfaction declines. We will continue to monitor the fishery, but expect slow fishing for the remainder of the year and possibly into the future.

Please report illegal fish introductions to 1-800-452-7888.

EAGLE CREEK: rainbow trout; brook trout

Eagle Creek was stocked in July with legal-size rainbow trout near West Eagle Meadows and Two Color campgrounds.

FISH LAKE (Steens Mountain): rainbow trout, brook trout

Recent sampling turned up plenty of nice brook trout ranging from 8-14 inches. There are two size classes of rainbow trout available in the lake ranging from 12-20 inches long.  

The road to Fish Lake is now closed for winter.

FISH LAKE (Wallowa Mountains): rainbow trout, brook trout

The lake has been stocked with legal and trophy-size rainbow trout. Recent fish sampling by ODFW indicates that good numbers of both stocked rainbow trout and naturally produced brook trout are available. With recent cold temperatures ice will begin to form on the lake.

FORT CREEK: brown, redband and brook trout

Closed to fishing from November 1-May 21 to protect spawning Redband Trout.

FOURMILE CREEK (tributary to Agency Lake): brook, brown, and redband trout.

Open all year. Access is available year-round off Westside Road at Fourmile Springs. A small car topper boat or canoe can improve fishing access at this area. Anglers should be aware of private property around this area and can check Klamath County Land Ownership for information. Bait is allowed.

FOURMILE LAKE: hatchery rainbow trout, lake trout, kokanee, brook trout

Access might be blocked by snow. Fourmile Lake was stocked before Labor Day with 1,400 rainbow trout. Fishing for rainbow trout will be fair. Look trophy brook trout and for lake trout around 20 inches cruising the shoreline looking for places to spawn. They will school in the areas of good spawning habitat. Try the area around the northeast shoreline.

The lake is 10 percent full, based on the 15,600 acre feet taken out for irrigation. At this lake level, it will become increasingly more difficult to launch boats as there is no concrete boat ramp. You can launch small boats from the sandy beach.

This time of year there is no day use fee. Call Lake of the Woods Resort for recent fishing reports Toll Free at 866-201-4194.

GRANDE RONDE LAKE: rainbow trout, brook trout

The lake was stocked in July with legal-size rainbow trout. With recent cold temperatures ice will begin to form on the lake.

GERBER RESERVOIR: crappie, yellow perch, brown bullhead and largemouth bass

The reservoir is likely frozen but not safe for ice fishing.

The reservoir is 62 percent full. With current and past reservoir levels, ODFW expects an excellent crappie fishery next year as well.

Gerber Reservoir is a turbid reservoir. Bank access is good. Several boat ramps exist on the reservoir. Large bass boats can be launched at the Ben Hall Creek ramp. Most of the reservoir is on BLM property. Facilities include a campground and fish cleaning station.

HAINES POND: hatchery rainbow trout

This pond received a fall stocking of rainbow trout mid-October. With recent cold temperatures ice will begin to form on the pond.

HEART LAKE: hatchery rainbow trout, kokanee, brown bullhead catfish

Snow is limiting access to 4-wheel drive vehicles and the ice is not thick enough to fish from.

Illegal introductions of brown bullhead catfish have been negatively impacting overwinter survival and the rainbow trout fishery. People have been catching brown bullhead over 15 inches with worms. ODFW encourages the retention of all brown bullhead caught in this fishery.

HIGHWAY 203 POND: rainbow trout, panfish, bass

The pond was stocked in the spring with 2,250 legal-size and 825 trophy-size rainbow trout.   With recent cold temperatures ice will begin to form on the pond.

HOLBROOK RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout

Snow is limiting access to 4-wheel drive vehicles and the ice is not thick enough to fish from.

JACKSON CREEK (UPPER WILLIAMSON RIVER): brook trout

Fishing is open and bait is allowed. This stream is very small with a large brook trout being 8 inches. There is a campground on the creek.

J.C. BOYLE RESERVOIR (Topsy Reservoir): Largemouth bass, yellow perch, brown bullhead, pumpkinseed, crappie, goldfish, Sacramento perch, tui chub and blue chub

Fishing is very slow for crappie and pumpkinseed sunfish. Best fishing for crappie is near the bridge crossing. Fishing bait off the bottom is also productive for brown bullhead catfish.

Past net sampling showed some large yellow perch in the reservoir above the bridge crossing. A few small yellow perch are being caught near the bridge crossing. Highest catch of all fish was above Topsy Bridge.

Open and accessible all year. Water levels generally remain very similar and drop as the day progresses as water is released for power generation. There are numerous points of access on the reservoir as most property surrounding the reservoir is BLM or PacifiCorp property. There are three boat ramps on the reservoir. The BLM campground and boat ramp are open.

UPPER KLAMATH AND AGENCY LAKES: native redband trout, yellow perch, kokanee, pumpkinseed, brown bullhead, tui chub and blue chub

The lakes began to freeze last week but is now mostly thawed except some of the calm bay areas. Covering a lot of water by trolling from a boat is likely the best method to find the big redband trout. The lake has been dropping. The lake is 4.1 feet below full pool and 37 percent full.

Please remember that once you retain your one redband/rainbow trout limit you must stop fishing for redband/rainbow trout. Also, all radio tagged redband trout must be released unharmed. ODFW encourages the catch and release of redband trout in this fishery.

KLAMATH RIVER: native redband trout, rainbow trout, brown trout

Keno Dam to J.C Boyle Reservoir

Flows have been errratic. Check the USGS Real Time flow gage. Flows are currently at 711 cfs and water temperature is peaking at 36 degrees. Most larger redband trout this time of year are feeding on minnows, sculpins or chub. Lures and flies that mimic forage fish work well. Catch-and-release and barbless hooks are encouraged in this fishery. Also, consider flies and lures that are snag-less or at least somewhat so. This river eats fishing gear.

Wading is very challenging in this section of the river. The river is turbid, which means you can’t see most of the bottom of the river. The river has very slippery boulders and uneven substrate. ODFW recommends wearing polarized sunglasses, wading boots with studs, a wading belt and a wading staff. This will really improve your fishing experience.  

Please report any brown trout caught in the fishery as this is a new observation.

J.C. Boyle Dam to J.C Boyle Powerhouse

Flows are low and stable. Catch rates are low. Fishing is best below the spring inputs. The springs start to discharge into the river approximately one mile below J.C. Boyle Dam. This section of river requires a hike down steep grade to the river with the exception of the area just above the powerhouse.

Water temperatures in this reach are a little higher due to most springs coming into the river at 50 degrees. There is good access at the powerhouse. Park and walk upstream. This area is fished hard but you can hike to get away from the pressure. Hiking or wading upstream is difficult. Small stimulators and black wooly buggers work well in this section.

J.C. Boyle Powerhouse to State Line with California

Flows will be low until 1 pm all week. Fishing should be good until flows increase to above 1000 cfs.

Fishing can be good depending on how flows are managed. Best fishing is when flows are less than 900 cfs. Flow estimates are available and you can check them at PacifiCorp Weekly Flow Estimates.

Large attractor flies such and wooly buggers and rubber leg stoneflies under a strike indicator work best this time of year. Crayfish imitations are also productive. Olive and black wooly buggers almost always work well. Black spinners and Panther Martins can also work.

Below the JC Boyle Powerhouse the redband-rainbow trout get slightly larger than the aforementioned reach and average 12 inches but rarely exceed 16 inches. Currently, most redband caught are in the 10- to 14-inch range.

KRUMBO RESERVOIR: trout, bass

The reservoir was sampled the last week of June and the rainbow trout are doing fantastic with numerous fish larger than 14-nches. The bass fishery offers lots of small (less than 6 inches) bass and a very few big (more than 2 lbs.) largemouth bass. The tweener bass are missing. Fish staff are looking at option to improve the bass fishery, however this may take some time.

Ice fishing is not allowed on this reservoir. Anglers should check with the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge to make sure there is open water before planning a trip.

LAKE OF THE WOODS: hatchery rainbow trout, kokanee, hatchery brown trout, yellow perch, brown bullhead, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, crappie, tui chub

. The lake is near freezing. The lake was stocked with 1,000 rainbow trout before Labor Day weekend. Yellow perch are the dominant fish in the reservoir.

Call Lake of the Woods Resort at 866-201-4194 for recent reports. You can also visit their website.

LOFTON RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout

Snow is limiting access to 4-wheel drive vehicles and the ice is not thick enough to fish from.

LONG CREEK (Sycan River): brook, redband and bull trout

Fishing has been slow with a few very large brook trout in the catch. Fish the meadow areas and areas near beaver dams. Brook trout dominate the catch.  

LOST RIVER: largemouth bass, brown bullhead, yellow perch, Sacramento perch

Open and accessible all year. The river is beginning to freeze in most locations. Fishing for brown bullhead catfish is slow. Access is available off Crystal Springs Road. The bridge crossing the river at Crystal Springs Road has good fishing access. Fishing from the bridge is allowed.

LUCKY RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout

Snow is limiting access to 4-wheel drive vehicles and the ice is not thick enough to fish off of.

MALHEUR RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout

Fishing should improve thanks to cooler water temperatures and the 9,000 legal-size trout that were stocked this fall.

The reservoir levels currently allow boat access from the county boat launch. A fish die-off occurred in 2018; however, anglers still reported good success that year. There were 65,400 fingerings (3-4-inches) stocked this spring that have grown to 8- to 11-inches. September sampling indicates larger trout are present but at low densities

MANN LAKE: cutthroat trout

This lake was stocked with cutthroat trout in the 5-10-  range in May. Lake levels are currently quite low.  

MILL FLAT POND: hatchery rainbow trout, largemouth bass

This pond might be iced-over in the morning but may open up towards the afternoon. Try fishing with bait or slowly working lures or flies midday to catch rainbow trout and largemouth bass.

There has been an illegal introduction of largemouth bass that have taken over the reservoir. Although fingerling rainbow trout are stocked yearly, few trout are typically caught. ODFW encourages the retention of all bass caught in order to promote the survival of stocked rainbow trout and native redband trout downstream.

MILLER CREEK: brook trout, brown trout, rainbow trout

Access is available. Fishing should be good for very small brook, brown and rainbow trout. Fish the beaver dam areas for best success.

MILLER LAKE: brown, rainbow, brook trout, kokanee

Miller Lake is approaching freezing. Miller Lake was stocked with rainbow trout prior to Labor Day weekend. Fishing will be slow for rainbow trout.

Fishing should be fair for brown trout. Catches in the trap net in the fall of 2018 resulted in a record catch of brown trout. Over 345 were caught in the net. The previous record was 177. All these fish were released alive. Average length was 18 inches with many three-year-old brown trout at 14-16 inches. The largest brown trout was 29 inches.

Brown trout were also abundant at the mouth of Evening Creek two weeks ago.

Please be on the lookout for lamprey wounds on the trout. If you see any lamprey wounds on trout please take a picture and call ODFW at 541-883-5732 ext. 24.

Call the Chemult USFS office at 541-365-7001 for more information. The road into Miller Lake is very rough and washboard but seems better than usual. The campground should be closing soon and camping will be free. There is a great beach for access to bank fishing.

MUD LAKE: rainbow trout, cutthroat trout

Snow is limiting access to 4-wheel drive vehicles and the ice is not thick enough to fish from.

MURRAY RESERVOIR: rainbow trout

The reservoir was stocked in the spring with 2,000 legal-size and 900 trophy-size rainbow trout. With recent cold temperatures ice will begin to form on the reservoir.

NORTH PINE CREEK: rainbow trout, brook trout

The creek was stocked in June with legal-size rainbow trout.

To measure the catch rate of trout stocked in North Pine Creek, ODFW marked some of these with an orange colored tag just under the dorsal fin. If you catch one of these tagged fish, please report the tag number to Tim Bailey, District Fish Biologist at 541-962-1829. Some of these tags will have a $50 reward available.

NORTH POWDER POND: rainbow trout, panfish, catfish

The pond has received a fall stocking of rainbow trout. With recent cold temperatures ice will begin to form on the pond.

OBENCHAIN RESERVOIR: bluegill, largemouth bass

The reservoir is privately-owned. Permission is needed to access.

OVERTON RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout

The lake is frozen-over and snow will limit access for the remainder of the winter.

OWYHEE RESERVOIR: largemouth and smallmouth bass, crappie, yellow perch, catfish

Fishing for rainbow trout is possible, but may be slow. The reservoir was sampled at 16 locations in June. Black crappie dominated the sample and averaged 6-8 inches with a few around 10 inches, but nothing larger was captured.

There were lots of little (less than 6-inches) smallmouth bass in the lower part of the reservoir with bigger largemouth above Fisherman’s Cove. A few channel catfish around 10 lbs. were captured, but most were less than 1 lb. Fishing for catfish should be good near Leslie Gulch. Rainbow trout may be available near the dam. The reservoir is 62 percent full as of Dec. 4.    

OWYHEE RIVER (Lower): brown trout and hatchery rainbow trout

The river is currently flowing at 40 cfs. Brown trout will be spawning now so fishing for them may be slow.  

ATTENTION ANGLERS – Fishing for brown trout is catch-and-release only; harvest of rainbow trout is allowed. Avoid targeting actively spawning fish and do not step on disturbed gravel while wading.

Also avoid over-playing a hooked fish as they are expending a lot of energy and it will take a lot longer to recover.

OWYHEE RIVER (Upper): smallmouth bass and channel catfish

Fishing for smallmouth bass and catfish may be slowing down as water temperatures cool.

PHILLIPS RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, yellow perch

Current reservoir storage is at 22 percent of capacity. The reservoir has been stocked with approximately 14,000 legal-size and 4,500 trophy-size rainbow trout.  

With recent cold temperatures ice will begin to form on the reservoir.

PILCHER RESERVOIR: rainbow trout

Reservoir storage has declined to the point that only the low-water boat launch is functional. Fall fishing for rainbow trout should improve as water temperature decreases.

With recent cold temperatures ice will begin to form on the reservoir.

PIUTE RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, cutthroat trout

Snow is limiting access to 4-wheel drive vehicles and the ice is not thick enough to fish from yet.

POISON CREEK RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout

Reservoir was stocked with fingerlings this past spring, and these fish are 8-12 inches now. No recent reports but fishing should be productive when good ice developes this winter.

The reservoir is unique in that it has a very robust population of large macroinvertebrates and this helps the trout to grow big rather quickly. The abundance of food for these trout may also be the reason that fishing is slow because the fish do not need to go far to find food so they move around less.

There is currently 5 inches of ice on covering the reservoir as of Dec. 3 2019; however, ice is slushy and appears unreliable to stand on. Hopefully cooler weather will improve ice conditions in the next couple of weeks for ice fishing.

POLE CREEK RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout

This reservoir is located completely on private property and access is granted through the landowner. Please be respectful pick up trash and do not block the road.

Recent sampling indicated there are some very nice trout available in the 16- to 20-inch range. There are also crappie present in the reservoir that are up to 10 inches long.

POWDER RIVER: rainbow trout

River flows below Mason Dam are low. Look for some good fall fishing for rainbow trout.  

PRIDAY RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout

There should be access to this reservoir with 4-wheel drives. Try using bait midday with a chop on the water. It seems like rainbow trout feed during windy conditions around midday and towards the evening.

Priday Reservoir is on some BLM property between Plush and Adel, but the majority of the reservoir is on private property. Please respect the private property by staying on the main roads and cleaning up trash from others.

ROCK CREEK RESERVOIR: redband trout, black crappie

Fishing for black crappie can be good at times, but the reservoir is muddy making it hard for the crappie to find your jig/lure. Using crappie nibbles or worms can improve your success.  Anglers are encouraged to release native redband trout, because these larger fish can have a huge effect on redband trout numbers upstream of the reservoir.  

ROGGER POND: hatchery rainbow trout

Snow is limiting access to 4-wheel drive vehicles and the ice is not thick enough to fish from.

SAND AND SCOTT CREEKS: brook trout and brown trout

Open all year. Sand and Scott creeks are very small spring fed streams west of Hwy 97 near the Silver Lake highway junction. Fishing on these small streams is open year-round with bait allowed. Most fish are less than 8 inches long.

SEVENMILE CREEK: brook trout, brown trout, redband trout

Open all year. Anglers can access Sevenmile Creek at Nicholson Road and fish upstream of Nicholson Road. Bait is allowed upstream of Nicholson Road. Fishing for brook trout is best in the beaver dam pools above Nicholson Road.

SKY LAKES AND MOUNTAIN LAKE WILDERNESS: brook trout and rainbow trout

Fishing not recommended at this time. Most lakes are inaccessible due to snow. Many of these lakes are beginning to freeze. Best lakes to catch fish are Como, Harriette, Echo, Weston and South Pass in the Mountain Lakes Wilderness and Sonya, Margurette and Isherwood in the Sky Lakes Wilderness.

Best lakes for brook trout are Badger and Echo.  

Fly and bubble cast from a spinner rod can be very effective. Black Panther Martins can also work. Anglers report catching some large rainbow trout up to 18 inches from the high lakes this year.

SHERLOCK GULCH RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout

Snow is limiting access to 4-wheel drive vehicles and the ice is not thick enough to fish from yet.

SID LUCE RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout

The lake is frozen-over and snow will limit access for the remainder of the winter.

SMITH RESERVOIR (Bryant Mountain): brown bullhead, largemouth bass, crappie, pumpkinseed sunfish

This reservoir is on BLM property near the town of Bonanza. The BLM is currently working on improving fish habitat in the reservoir. BLM is also planning to potentially release largemouth bass and crappie into the reservoir to improve fishing opportunity.  

SPAULDING RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout

Snow is limiting access to 4-wheel drive vehicles. This reservoir should open up and fish well during midday.

SPENCER CREEK: redband trout and brook trout

Closed to fishing from Nov.1 - May 21 to protect spawning redband trout.

SPRING CREEK: redband trout, brown trout, brook trout

Closed to fishing from Nov. 1 - April 21 to protect spawning redband trout. Numerous Brown trout are actively spawning and provide good viewing opportunities just above the confluence.

SPRAGUE RIVER: redband trout, brown trout, largemouth bass, brown bullhead, yellow perch, and pumpkinseed

Closed to fishing from Nov. 1 - April 21 to protect spawning redband trout.

NORTH FORK SPRAGUE RIVER AND ALL TRIBUTARIES: brook trout, redband trout, brown trout, bull trout

The river is open year round. Fishing is very slow. Much of the river on public land is inaccessible.

Check stream level. The river is also very clear in this section.

SOUTH FORK SPRAGUE RIVER AND ALL TRIBUTARIES: brook trout, redband trout, brown trout, bull trout

The South Fork Sprague River is open to fishing all year. Fishing is best above Blaisdell for redband trout under 12 inches.

Fishing has slowed for brook and brown trout at the beaver ponds near Corral Creek. The best beaver ponds are just below Corral Creek Campground right off the 34 road. Some brook trout and brown trout run up to 14 inches. Best method is dry fly-fishing or fishing bait in Corral Creek.

Check stream level.

SUN CREEK: brook trout, bull trout, brown trout

Open to fishing all year but closed to fishing for bull trout. Only bull trout occur in upper Sun Creek just above the Sun Pass Forest bridge crossing. Fishing is not recommended at this time as fish density remains low. Recent electrofishing found low number of brook trout, brown trout and redband trout. The largest fish was 9 inches. Fish size and density remain low. Check stream level.

Redband trout were reintroduced to Sun Creek in 2016 and 2017. These redband trout were small, most are less than 4 inches, and salvaged from the Wood River irrigation system. The Sun Creek channel has been rerouted into the historic channel and is connected to the Wood River below Kimball State Park.

SYCAN RIVER: brook, redband and brown trout (below marsh)

Open all year. Most of the river is inaccessible due to snow.

Fishing is slow below the marsh for mostly 8- to 10-inch redband trout. Best fishing is in the area of large pools and car sized boulders in the Coyote Bucket area. Check stream levels.

THOMPSON VALLEY RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout, largemouth bass

Snow is limiting access to 4-wheel drive vehicles and the ice is not thick enough to fish from yet.

THIEF VALLEY RESERVOIR: trout

The reservoir is at 49 percent of capacity and increasing. The water level has now reached the concrete boat ramp, however, with recent cold temperatures ice will begin to form on the reservoir. As the reservoir was not dewatered this summer/fall, holdovers from the spring rainbow trout stocking should provide some decent fishing opportunity this fall/winter.

TWIN LAKES (Wallowa Mountains): rainbow trout, brook trout

Twin lakes has been stocked with 200 trophy-size rainbow trout. Anglers are reminded that the daily bag limit is one trout over 15 inches in length.

With recent cold temperatures ice will begin to form on the lake.

UNITY RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, bass, crappie

Anglers have enjoyed good success catching rainbow trout up to 20-inches. Reservoir storage is at 33 percent and increasing.

With recent cold temperatures ice will begin to form on the lake.

VEE LAKE: hatchery rainbow trout

The lake is frozen-over and snow will limit access for the remainder of the winter.

WARM SPRINGS RESERVOIR: smallmouth bass, crappie, catfish, perch, rainbow trout

No recent fishing reports. The reservoir is 50 percent full as of Oct. 28. You can access reservoir levels for reservoirs owned by the Bureau of Reclamation here.

Fishing for warmwater fish (bass, crappie, catfish) should be good throughout the early fall. Rainbow trout are stocked in the reservoir and are available as well. Fishing for rainbow trout should improve with cooler water temperatures.

Allow a few days to a week following rain or snow before attempting to drive to the reservoir and drive carefully as vehicles traveling these roads can get stuck in the mud.

WARNER POND: hatchery rainbow trout

Snow is limiting access to 4-wheel drive vehicles and the ice is not thick enough to fish from yet.

UPPER WILLIAMSON RIVER: redband trout and brook trout

Closed to fishing from Nov. 1 - April 21 to protect spawning redband trout.

LOWER WILLIAMSON RIVER: redband trout and brown trout

Closed to fishing from Nov. 1-May 21 to protect spawning redband trout.

WILLOW VALLEY RESERVOIR: largemouth bass, crappie, yellow perch, bluegill, Lahontan cutthroat

The reservoir is likely beginning to freeze. Catch rates have slowed for all warmwater fish. Best bass fishing is at the Antelope Creek confluence and near the dam face along the emergent vegetation. Also, look for the many habitat structures placed in the lake for suspended crappie and bass. Yellow perch are prolific in the reservoir but stunted.

WOLF CREEK RESERVOIR: crappie, trout

The boat launch is operational, however, with recent cold temps ice will begin to form on the reservoir. Anglers enjoyed good success this summer, catching chunky 12- to 15-inch rainbows.    

WOOD RIVER: redband trout, brown trout, brook trout and bull trout

Closed to fishing from Nov. 1 - April 21 to protect spawning redband trout.

YELLOWJACKET LAKE: trout

A fish kill occurred this past winter but about 3,000 rainbow trout were stocked in June, which will improve the fishing while they last. Fishing success will likely decline as the summer progresses. However, 18,500 fingerling (3- to 4-inch) rainbow trout stocked in the spring are 8-10 inches now. There are also some trout available in the 12- to 13-inch range.  

This reservoir is likely iced over and access may be limited by snow. Anglers should use caution on early season ice.

NE FISHING

Weekend fishing opportunities:

• With the recent winter storm, roads may be treacherous and waterbodies may be freezing over, especially at higher elevations. Be sure to check on conditions before heading out.
• Steelhead anglers on the John Day has reported reasonable success. Focus on the lower sections of the river.
• The McNary Ponds have a surprising number of walleye. Look for the deepest areas and fish worms near the bottom.

2019 STOCKING SCHEDULE AND STOCKING MAP

ALDRICH PONDS (Roosevelt and Stewart Lakes): trout (2 fish limit)

The access road to the parking area will be closed Dec. 1 and reopens April 15.  Full closure of the Wildlife Area is from Feb. 1 through April 14.    

BULL PRAIRIE RESERVOIR: rainbow trout

The reservoir has been stocked with both trophy and legal-size trout. Fishing is likely good for stocked trout.  A float tube or small boat will help anglers avoid shoreline aquatic weeds.

GRANDE RONDE RIVER: trout, whitefish, bass, steelhead

Steelhead fishing on the Grande Ronde is slow by most standards, but there are fish being caught and conditions are notably better than last year. The daily steelhead bag limit is one hatchery steelhead through at least Dec. 31.

Poor returns of steelhead are forecasted for the Snake River Basin prompting managers to reduce bag limits to ensure hatchery production can be met. Managers will continue to evaluate the run and adjust bag limits as necessary.

Remember that fall Chinook, bull trout, and coho will be present in the Grande Ronde throughout the fall.  If you encounter these species, they must be released immediately and unharmed.

HOLLIDAY PARK POND: rainbow trout

The pond was stocked three times this summer and fish should holdover well.

HUNTER POND: rainbow trout

This pond received a fall stocking of rainbow trout late September.

From I-84 take Hwy 244 towards Ukiah. At the Blue Mountains summit, turn left onto USFS Rd 5160. Proceed for approximately 3 miles to the junction of roads 5160 and 5155. Stay on 5160. Just past this junction on the right take spur 710. The pond is just off 5160.

IMNAHA RIVER: trout, whitefish, bass, steelhead

Steelhead season opened on Sept. 1 with a reduced daily bag limit of one hatchery steelhead through at least Dec. 31. Poor returns of steelhead are forecasted for the Snake River Basin prompting managers to reduce bag limits to ensure hatchery production can be met. Managers will continue to evaluate the run and adjust bag limits as necessary.

Remember that fall Chinook and bull trout will be present in the Imnaha River throughout the fall. If you encounter these species, they must be released immediately and unharmed.

JOHN DAY RIVER: steelhead

Steelhead are starting to enter the John Day River system. Steelhead numbers are down again this year and predicted to be similar to last year. Anglers should focus their attention to the lower section of river as fish are just starting to move up the John Day. Recent cold weather will slow the fishing, but anglers have reported reasonable success in October and November.

Steelhead fishing below Tumwater Falls is now open for retention of one hatchery steelhead through December 31, 2019. Anglers are encouraged to keep up to 3 hatchery steelhead above Tumwater Falls and to use safe fish handling ethics to release wild steelhead.  

LONG CREEK POND, CAVENDER POND: rainbow trout, largemouth bass

No recent reports, but fish should hold well at both Long Creek and Cavender after summer trout stockings.

LUGER POND: rainbow trout

This pond received a fall stocking of rainbow trout the last week of September.

Take the Palmer Junction Road north out of Elgin about 10 miles to USFS 63. Follow USFS 63 for about 9 miles, then left on USFS 6306. Luger Pond is 2.5 miles on the right, near Luger Springs campground.

MAGONE LAKE: rainbow and brook trout

The reservoir has been stocked with trophy and legal-size tout. Fishing will be slower with the cold weather and access to the lake may be hampered due to snow and ice on the lake.

McNARY PONDS: walleye

The ponds have a surprisingly good population of walleye, highest numbers are in the Social Security Pond, which also provides good bank access. Look for the deepest areas and use worms fished near the bottom and plastic grubs. The ponds are also open to non-motorized boats.

MORGAN LAKE: rainbow trout

The lake closes to fishing on Nov. 1. The fish should be biting well with the cool fall temperatures. Get out and enjoy some good fishing with smaller crowds.

PEACH (LADD) POND: rainbow trout

This pond received a fall stocking of rainbow trout mid-October.

To measure the catch rate of trout stocked in the Peach Pond, ODFW marked some of these with an orange colored tag just under the dorsal fin. If you catch one of these tagged fish, please report the tag number to Tim Bailey, District Fish Biologist at 541-962-1829. Some of these tags will have a $50 reward available.

Construction of a new ADA accessible fishing platform is now complete.

ROULET POND: rainbow trout

This pond received a fall stocking of rainbow trout mid-October. A new fishing pier was constructed last fall. Anglers with disabilities will enjoy excellent fishing access at this pond.

To measure the catch rate of trout stocked in the Roulette Pond, ODFW marked some of these with an orange colored tag just under the dorsal fin. If you catch one of these tagged fish, please report the tag number to Tim Bailey, District Fish Biologist at 541-962-1829. Some of these tags will have a $50 reward available.

ROWE CREEK RESERVOIR: rainbow trout

The reservoir was stocked this summer, but no reports have been received since the recent cold weather.

TAYLOR GREEN POND: rainbow trout

This pond received a fall stocking of rainbow trout the last week of September. Make use of a great fishing opportunity before the snow flies. Views from this pond are spectacular.

From Hwy 203 at Union, turn left staying on Hwy 203 towards Medical Springs. At the summit between Union and Medical Springs, turn left onto USFS Road 7700 (opposite Sno-Park area). Proceed East on 7700 road for about 9 miles to USFS Road 7740 on the right. There is a popular camping area just beyond the 7740 road on the right. Proceed on the 7740 road for about 1/4 mile. The rock pit and pond are on the right.

TWIN PONDS (Ukiah): trout

Twin Ponds have been stocked twice, but fishing and access may be hampered due to snow and ice.

UMATILLA RIVER: steelhead

Steelhead return numbers are low, to date 386 steelhead have returned to Three Mile Dam.

Anglers are reminded of the reduced steelhead bag limit of one hatchery steelhead.

Anglers can access fish counts at Three Mile Dam fish counts. Find flow data.

WALLOWA COUNTY PONDS: rainbow trout

Wallowa County ponds on the forest and in the valley have been stocked this year and fishing should be good. Cooler weather will likely freeze most of the ponds and shutdown fishing for the rest of the year.  

Kinney Lake is fishing well for stocked and holdover trout up to 16 inches. Once the pond freezes, good ice fishing is expected.

Check the 2019 stocking schedules for these Wallowa County ponds: HONEYOON POND | KINNEY LAKE | MARR POND | MCGRAW POND | SALT CREEK SUMMIT POND | TEEPEE POND | VICTOR POND | WEAVER POND

WALLOWA LAKE: rainbow trout, kokanee, lake trout

The crowds have left Wallowa Lake, but trout and kokanee are still available to the determined angler. Expect natural baits to be successful as stocked trout have been in the lake long enough to key in on food items in the lake.

WALLOWA RIVER: steelhead, mountain whitefish, trout

Steelhead season opened on Sept.1 with a reduced daily bag limit of one hatchery steelhead through at least Dec. 31. Poor returns of steelhead are forecasted for the Snake River Basin prompting managers to reduce bag limits to ensure hatchery production can be met. Managers will continue to evaluate the run and adjust bag limits as necessary.  

While steelhead season is open, it will be later in the fall when fish appear in catchable numbers.

Remember that bull trout and coho will be present in the Wallowa River throughout the fall. If you encounter these species, they must be released immediately and unharmed.

WILLOW CREEK RESERVOIR: trout

As water temperatures cool, trout get more active and move back into the shallows to feed. Anglers do well with worms and PowerBait fished on the bottom from shore.

SNAKE FISHING

BROWNLEE RESERVOIR: crappie, bass, perch, catfish, bluegill, trout

No recent fishing reports.

Call the Idaho Power Company’s recording at 1-800-422-3143 to get information on access at recreational sites. | Reservoir level information

OXBOW RESERVOIR: trout, crappie, bass, catfish

No recent fishing reports.

Trout fishing should be good at tributary inlets.

HELLS CANYON RESERVOIR: trout, crappie, bass, catfish

No recent fishing reports.

SNAKE RIVER below HELLS CANYON RESERVOIR: trout, steelhead, bass

Fall Chinook fishing on the Snake River is closed.

Steelhead season opened on Sept. 1 with a reduced daily bag limit of one hatchery steelhead through at least Dec. 31. Poor returns of steelhead are forecasted for the Snake River Basin prompting managers to reduce bag limits to ensure hatchery production can be met. Managers will continue to evaluate the run and adjust bag limits as necessary.

Barbless hooks and a Columbia Basin Endorsement are required when fishing for salmon, steelhead and sturgeon in the Snake River. All other 2019 Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations apply. Due to limited access in this section, most anglers access this fishery below Hells Canyon Dam or by jet boat.

Updated information on flow levels

SNAKE RIVER (above Brownlee Reservoir): channel catfish, flathead catfish, smallmouth bass

No recent fishing reports, however fishing is likely good for most species. Access is limited for bank anglers in this portion of the Snake River. Ontario State Recreation Site (Or. State Parks), River Park (Nyssa) and the east side of the bridge over the Snake River near Adrian provide some public access. The Outdoorsman in Ontario (NE 2nd St and E Idaho Ave.) may have local knowledge of other access points for bank anglers.

COLUMBIA FISHING

Current and upcoming fishing opportunities:

• Coho and steelhead fishing is open from Buoy 10 upstream to Bonneville Dam (see Sport Fishing Regulations Updates page for retention details).

• White sturgeon retention is closed from Buoy 10 upstream to McNary Dam, but remains an option for catch-and-release fishing.

Columbia River regulation updates for salmon, steelhead, shad and sturgeon can be found above.

SALMON, STEELHEAD AND SHAD

The salmonid creel program on the lower Columbia has ended for the year and will resume February of 2020.

STURGEON

Bonneville Pool (Bonneville Dam upstream to The Dalles Dam):

Closed for retention.  No report.

The Dalles Pool (The Dalles Dam upstream to John Day Dam):  

Closed for retention.  No report.

John Day Pool (John Day Dam upstream to McNary Dam):

Closed for retention.  No report.

WALLEYE

Bonneville Pool:  No report.

The Dalles Pool: No report.

John Day Pool: No report.

John Day Arm:  No report.

MARINE FISHING

Saltwater News Bulletins

You can subscribe to receive e-mails and text message alerts for marine topics you are interested in. It’s easy to unsubscribe at any time. Your phone and e-mail information will remain confidential. Six different lists of interest to ocean enthusiasts are available: Bottomfish (recreational), Halibut (recreational), Ocean Salmon (recreational), Ocean Salmon (commercial troll), Commercial Nearshore Groundfish, and Marine Reserves.

BOTTOM FISHING

As usual, autumn finds bottomfish anglers pursuing other activities, but some level of effort is common throughout the winter months when safe ocean conditions allow. This past week, ocean conditions did not favor the recreational fishing fleet, with bar restrictions in place for most ports, for multiple days. However “Black Friday” turned into “lingcod Friday” for some anglers out of Central Coast ports. The weather was calm enough for some anglers to head out in search of lingcod, with reports of some pretty good success and a nice grade of fish.  Rockfish may still have been full from Thanksgiving, as they didn’t seem to be on the bite that day. Anglers are reminded to carefully check the weather forecast before venturing out to go ocean fishing.

Excited to go bottomfish fishing but find yourself wondering what you can keep and how many? Click here

The bottomfish fishery is open at all depths. The General Marine Species bag limit is 5 fish; a separate bag limit allows retention of 2 lingcod. Retention of cabezon, China rockfish, copper rockfish, and quillback rockfish is prohibited. The quotas for these species have been reached. Shore-based fishing for these species remains open because quota is set aside to accommodate shore anglers. For shore anglers, no more than one of the five fish may be a cabezon (16-inch minimum length).

Retention of yelloweye rockfish is prohibited by all anglers.

Anglers participating in the offshore longleader fishery frequently catch limits (10 fish) of large canary rockfish and yellowtail rockfish. The longleader gear fishery outside of the 40-fathom regulatory line is open all year.

Want to work on your identification skills of commonly caught bottomfish? Try the Common Bottomfish online quiz by clicking here. And also try the “Yelloweye Rockfish or Not?” quiz. 

Vessels fishing for or retaining bottomfish (including flatfish) species or Pacific halibut in the ocean are required (1) to have onboard a functioning rockfish descending device, and (2) use it to descend any rockfish released when fishing outside of the 30-fathom regulatory line. For more information and videos, please see the rockfish recompression webpage.

In addition to the descending device rule, ODFW continues to encourage anglers to use a descending device when releasing ANY rockfish with signs of barotrauma. Signs of barotrauma, such as bulging eyes and a gut protruding from the mouth, are reversible when fish are returned to depth with a descending device. Use a descending device to safely return fish to a depth of 60 feet or more. Even fish that are severely bloated can survive after being released at depth.

Waypoints (for fathom lines and other restricted areas)

Longleader gear

2019 Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations

Catch estimates

What can I keep and how many?

PACIFIC HALIBUT

Halibut fishing season is closed.

Additional information about sport halibut management, including landing estimates, can be found on the ODFW halibut management webpage.

OCEAN SALMON

Seasons now closed.

Details for the 2019 ocean salmon season, full catch and quota updates are available here.

You’ll find a guide and tips to identification of salmon and steelhead on the Ocean salmon fishing page here.

SHORE AND ESTUARY FISHING

Public piers provide opportunities to catch surfperch and baitfish and to drop crab pots (but check first for crab health safety closures).

Surfperch are available in the surf year-round along sandy beaches and rocky shore, with the best fishing (and safest fishing) occurring when swells are small. Learn about ocean surfperch fishing.

When fishing from shore or inside estuaries and bays, it is important to check the tide. Many fish that swim into estuaries and bays, including salmon, surfperch, and Pacific herring, tend to come in with the tide. Catch of these species is more likely to occur closer to slack tide. Additionally, the accessibility of some areas can be completely dependent on the tide. Do not allow the incoming tide to become a safety.

CRABBING AND CLAMMING

Always check for closures at the ODA Shellfish Safety page before clamming or crabbing. http://ODA.direct/ShellfishClosures

RAZOR CLAM

As of Nov. 6, the recreational harvest of razor clams is CLOSED from the south jetty of the Siuslaw River to the California border for elevated domoic acid levels. This includes all beaches and all bays.

Clatsop Beach razor clam season opened on Oct. 1. The best low tides have switched to the evenings so harvesters should plan accordingly. Clammers should expect a high abundance of razor clams 3 ½ inches or less. Targeting the largest “show,” greater than a nickel in diameter, will greatly increase the odds of harvesting a larger clam.  

Razor clam season starts to slow down at beaches south of Clatsop as the end of good daytime negative low tides approaches.

Fall and winter harvesting of razor clams can be a challenging endeavor. Unlike the spring and summer, low tides are in the evenings and at night when visibility is poor or nonexistent. Typical to the Oregon coast, the fall and winter brings large storm events, which keep the razor clams from “showing” as readily and can also be a safety risk with surging water and debris on the beach. Make sure to monitor swell and surf advisories as well as predicted wind prior to harvesting. Combined seas greater than 10 feet and winds greater than 20mph will make harvesting difficult for all, including the most experienced harvester.

BAY CLAMS

Check out the Where to Clam articles for places to find them. You can also get more clamming maps here or at the coastal ODFW offices.

Always call the ODA shellfish safety hotline at 1-800-448-2474 or ODA shellfish closures website before harvesting for the most current information about shellfish safety closures.

CRAB

Coming soon: Beginning Jan. 1, 2020, recreational crabbers will need to mark all floating surface buoys with a name and other identifying information. See more information in the Regulation updates section above. While this rule does not apply to gear tied to docks, piers, jetties or beaches, we recommend marking buoys on any gear that could become derelict or lost. Find more information here.

Crabbing is closed in the ocean from Oct. 16 – Nov. 30. Bays, beaches, estuaries, tide pools, piers, and jetties remain open.

Crabbing in the Coos Bay estuary is picking up as we head into the winter months. Crabbing by boat and setting pots near the jetties yields the most crab. Dock crabbing in Coos Bay has been slow.

Central coast crabbing in Alsea has been moderate to good. Yaquina Bay has seen fair to poor returns by boat. Crabbers are landing fuller crab.

Crabbing in Tillamook and Netarts bays has been moderate.

In addition to Dungeness crab, another Oregon native present in some of Oregon’s estuaries is the red rock crab. Crabbers can retain 24 red rock crabs of any sex or size. There have also been higher numbers of Pacific rock crab in Yaquina Bay this year. This crab counts as your “Other” shellfish, which has a daily bag limit of 10 in aggregate with other species that fall in this category (see page 82 of the fishing synopsis for more details). While they look very similar to red rock crab, their long antennae and large claws distinguish them; they sometimes have spots on their abdomen.

Some crabbers in estuaries may encounter non-native European green crab in their catch this year. While they look similar to Oregon’s native shore crabs, they can be identified by the three prominent bumps between the eyes and 5 spines down the side of the carapace. They are not always green and color is not a good identifying feature. The daily catch limit for European green crab also falls in the “Other” shellfish category and is 10 in aggregate with other species that fall in this category (see page 82 of the fishing synopsis for more details). European green crab can be any size or sex.

WILDLIFE VIEWING

NW WILDLIFE VIEWING

Migratory ducks and geese have been showing up on north coast estuaries, including the Columbia River, in greater numbers recently and will tend to concentrate on the coast when temperatures are freezing in the Willamette Valley. Binoculars and/or a spotting scope will make for better viewing.

TILLAMOOK COUNTY

Birds

Great egrets are large, white wading birds about the size of a great blue heron. You’ll see them occasionally in agricultural fields throughout Tillamook County, but  they’re more common in estuaries such as Netarts and Tillamook Bays. Against their typically dark backgrounds, they are hard miss and a striking contrast to their surroundings.

A drive along Bayocean Rd on the south (upper) end of Tillamook Bay should reveal a variety of migrating and resident waterfowl species. Greater numbers of grebes (several different species) and diving ducks are present in the estuaries and coastal lakes. Depending on the level of the tide, binoculars or a spotting scope will help you identify the birds you’re seeing.

CLATSOP COUNTY

Birds

The Twilight Eagle Sanctuary, located east of Astoria along Hwy 30, is a great place to view birds any time of year. With a commanding view of Wolf Bay on the Columbia River and a handy accessible viewing platform, it’s not hard to find songbirds, waterfowl, raptors and other types of birds at this stop.

Trestle Bay on the lower Columbia River has an excellent viewing bunker at Ft. Stevens State Park (Parking Lot D) that affords a good view of the bay. It’s a good place to see shorebirds that are resting there during their migratory movements to the south in the fall.  Bring your binoculars or spotting scope to see the most.  

Jewell Meadows Wildlife Area

Elk viewing has been excellent at Jewell Meadows Wildlife Area. Elk have been out everyday with the best viewing in the mornings between 9 a.m. and noon and again in the evenings. Good places to look are the Fishhawk Tract along Hwy 202 and the Beneke Tract along the first 1.5 miles of Beneke Creek Road.

Jewell Meadows started its winter elk feeding program on Dec. 1.  Elk get a supplemental diet of alfalfa hay each day.  Feeding time is between 9 and 10 a.m. most days. This supplemental feed holds elk in the open meadows longer during the day and offers better viewing. Staff try to feed close to the viewing areas on weekends.

Reservations for the winter elk feeding tours have completely filled up for the three-month program. Staff started taking reservations on Dec. 1 and by 2:00 p.m. had signed up over 1,100 individuals.

Brochures with maps are available at the main viewing area kiosk. Remember that areas posted as “Wildlife Refuge” are closed to public entry. Additionally, posted portions of the Beneke Tract are closed to public entry during any Saddle Mt. unit elk season including Archery season. Closure dates are Aug. 1 through March 31 (see big game regulations for exceptions).

A parking permit is required to park at Jewell Meadows Wildlife Area. Find out how to buy a parking permit. 

SW WILDLIFE VIEWING

COOS COUNTY

Coquille Valley Wildlife Area (CVWA)

Birds

Waterfowl are arriving the bays on the Southern Oregon coast in good numbers. Many of these birds move into the area from northern parts of the flyway, and initially spend much of their time in the saltwater portions of the bays, near the coast. As rains come to the coast, they’ll scatter inland. So, now is a really good time to see and photograph ducks and geese near mud flats where they feed on invertebrates and eel grass. Good places to do so are Cape Arago Hwy near Charleston and Bullards Beach near Bandon.

Big Game

Deer and elk numbers are very strong on coastal agricultural land around the county. You’ll see large herds of elk almost regularly during morning hours and right before dark. Good places to see deer are along the fringe of these valleys where the habitat transitions from open agriculture to forested types. Good binoculars are essential to finding deer and elk in these areas.

Dean Creek Elk Viewing Area is a good place to watch elk as several herds are currently spending most days in the fields near observation points. Dean Creek is also a good place to see a variety of birds from waterfowl to neotropical migrants.

Marine Mammals

Lots of sea lions and seals are using the Simpson’s Reef haul out of Cape Arago Hwy. Now is a great time to visit lookout at Simpson’s Reef, which offers a great view of these animals.

DOUGLAS COUNTY

Waterfowl

Watch for goose and duck nestlings following adult waterfowl in the following weeks as they learn to forage. Be careful as you drive next to watered ditches, bodies of water and fields where these young birds are hanging out.

Deer

You can see Columbian white-tailed deer and black-tailed deer throughout much of the Umpqua Valley’s agricultural lands in strong numbers.

Elk

Viewers can see Roosevelt elk taking advantage of the Umpqua Valley’s agricultural lands. Large herds of elk nightly visit many local grass producers, and there are good chances to see them during early morning and evening hours as they move between food and cover.

Acorn woodpecker

Look for this loud and vocal woodpecker in Roseburg at River Forks Park, N. Bank Mgt. area and Whistlers Park. Since this woodpecker is a hoarder, look for signs of a granary in the bark of large pine trees that are used to store insects and acorns in cracks and crevices.

Amphibians

Listen around any body of water or wetland for the song of the northern Pacific tree frogs. If they are in your neighborhood, they will be hard to ignore. Also, take care when driving local roads. As the weather warms, you will see many frogs and rough-skinned newts making movements towards and around spring watery habitats.

Common Nighthawk  

The first nighthawk’s should be arriving from their wintering areas in South America. The nighthawk is a darkish colored bird 9.5 inches long with long pointed wings and white wing patches. You can commonly spot nighthawks flying high in the evening sky catching insects on the wing emitting a nasal peent call. This migratory bird is one of the last birds to migrate to North America for nesting. Viewers can see and hear it throughout western Oregon from cities and towns to woodlands and forests.

JACKSON and JOSEPHINE COUNTIES

Table Rocks

The two Table Rocks of southern Oregon provide excellent nearby hiking opportunities. Upper Table Rock is located off Modoc Rd and is slightly shorter of the two, whereas Lower Table Rock is located off Table Rock Rd it is longer yet slightly less of a steep climb. Both of these trails provide a good opportunity to see a variety of wildlife that the Rogue Valley has to offer. Once you reach the top you have great views of the surrounding Cascade and Siskiyou mountain ranges.

Jacksonville Forest Park

The Jacksonville Forest Park is located just outside of the historic town of Jacksonville, Ore. This is a 1,100-acre park with 17 trails covering over 15 miles of the area. This is a great area located on the foothills just above the valley floor. There should be plenty of wildlife viewing opportunities for many different species within this section of land.

Rogue Valley Audubon Society

Bird Walk-On the first Wednesday of every month the Rogue Valley Audubon Society gathers at Denman Wildlife Area outside of White City to conduct a bird count. The event is open to the public and starts at 8:30 a.m.

Project Feederwatch returns on Saturday, Dec. 7 from 9-10 a.m. at North Mountain Park in Ashland. This is a chance for citizens to collect species information to contribute to a national bird-monitoring database. It is also a great place to come and get help with your bird ID from experts in the field. No registration is required.

https://roguevalleyaudubon.org/

Denman Wildlife Area

Take one of two trails off TouVelle Road and enjoy birdwatching and sightseeing. Below the fourth pond and to the north, you will find the Denman horse trail (2.5 mile) that provides great views of the Upper Table Rock and opportunities to see birds that live in oak trees, wedge leaf ceanothus and areas of riparian vegetation along the Little Butte Creek. The trail to the south that runs along the fourth pond dike is our interpretive trail, come in to the office and pick up and interpretive trail guide. You will learn of some of the history of the wildlife area and the different environment unique to our area. A wide variety of wildlife can be found along this 1.5-mile trail.

A covered viewing station on the Denman Wildlife Area provides a good opportunity to view waterfowl, egrets, raptors and songbirds. The Oregon Hunters Association built the structure and it is accessed by a paved, ADA-accessible pathway. Two additional fishing dikes have been created on Whetstone pond to provide more fishing access, it is possible to catch bass, bluegill, bullhead catfish, black crappie, and carp. Warm water fishing should become more productive as the weather improves. The pond is located just north of the ODFW Rogue Watershed Field Office in Central Point.

The wildlife area is a great place to come and view different waterfowl species. We have 10 grain fields that flooded this time of year. In addition, there are over 10 permanent ponds frequented by waterfowl on the wildlife area, as well as the Rogue River and Little Butte Creek. So far this year we have seen Canada geese, white-fronted geese, lots of mallard, wigeon, and green-wing teal ducks, as well as a few reports of cinnamon teal.

Waterfowl are moving into the area as we get deeper into winter. Come out to the Whetstone Pond on the Denman Wildlife area for a chance to see a variety of waterfowl species. Waterfowl tend to be the most active on stormy days so pay attention to the weather forecast and dress accordingly.

Another area that waterfowl species seem to congregate at is near the confluence of the Rogue River and Little Butte Creek. You can access this are by getting a key for the green gate on Touvelle Rd at our office, and then driving to the end of Touvelle Rd.

Black-tailed deer are in their breeding season right now, typically referred to as the rut. This could be a good time to see deer in more open areas as bucks will tend to chase does that they intend to breed. Deer during this time of year are less focused on being secretive and therefore are easier to spot and view for longer periods of time.

Reptiles and amphibians:  Stop by the ODFW office on the Denman Wildlife Area to pick up a couple free coverboards.  A coverboard is a 2’ by 4’ sheet of plywood that provides habitat for reptiles and amphibians.  If you pick a couple up, deploy them on your property, and check them a few times during April and May, when reptiles and amphibians are most active, you might add to your knowledge of the animals using your property.

A parking permit is required to park at Denman Wildlife Area. Find out how to buy a parking permit. 

WILLAMETTE WILDLIFE VIEWING

Corvallis Area

EE Wilson Wildlife Area

There are lots of deer, shorebirds and waterfowl to see on the Wildlife Area – look for goose, mallard, hooded merganser and wood duck broods. Wildlife viewing remains good for waterfowl and shorebirds. Neotropical migrants in the area include yellow-breasted chat, American goldfinch, various swallows, warblers, thrush, kinglet and common yellowthroat.

Note: Dogs are required to be on a leash inside the wildlife area boundary. Rifles and pistols are prohibited year-round. Find directions to EE Wilson Wildlife Area.

A parking permit is required to park at EE Wilson Wildlife Area. Find out how to buy a parking permit. 

Eugene Area

Fern Ridge Wildlife Area

The East and West Coyote Units are closed to all public access until Nov. 15. The viewing platform in E. Coyote is accessible.

Observant visitors may catch a glimpse of black-tailed deer and furbearers including beaver, otter, mink, red fox and coyotes. Some of the unusual and special bird species to be on the lookout for include white pelicans, black terns, band-tailed pigeons, yellow-headed blackbirds, osprey and bald eagles.

This is a great time of year to look for waterfowl, shore birds, wading birds, songbirds, raptors, reptiles, and amphibians. Visitors may also see western pond turtles basking on logs, branches, and rocks in sunny areas of rivers, off-channel ponds, and other wetlands. Please report sightings of turtles here.

An elevated viewing platform in the Fisher Butte unit just south of Royal Avenue is open year-round. A second viewing platform is located 1/4 mile north of the Fisher Butte unit parking lot on Hwy. 126.

A parking permit is required to park at Fern Ridge Wildlife Area. Find out how to buy a parking permit. 

Portland Area

Sauvie Island Wildlife Area

The Sauvie Island Wildlife Area Westside, Oak Island and North units will close for the season Oct. 1 and will remain closed through April 15, 2020. Eastside units will be closed through April 30, 2020. Rentenaar Road, Eastside Viewing Platform and Raccoon Point will remain open for viewing. The trail to Warrior Rock Lighthouse remains open and offers a great hike along with bird viewing. All open areas are on Reeder Road and require a parking permit.

When planning your trip to the island please see the current Game Bird Regulations for the hunt schedule and plan accordingly.

Viewing opportunities are plentiful as the fall migration is upon us with a variety of waterfowl and migratory birds currently returning to the island, including geese, ducks, pelicans and peak numbers of sandhill cranes. The number of eagles returning to the island will be increasing in the very near future. Be sure to bring your binoculars.  

Sauvie Island is a main stopping point for migratory birds as they travel along the Pacific Flyway. ODFW actively manages the area to provide food and cover for these creatures.

Sauvie Island Wildlife Area is located on Sauvie Island, only 10 miles north of Portland off Highway 30. A parking permit is required for the Sauvie Island Wildlife Area and can be purchased at ODFW License agents, ODFW offices, or online.

For more information, call (503) 621-3488.

CENTRAL WILDLIFE VIEWING

CROOK COUNTY

There are red-tailed, rough-legged and ferruginous hawks, northern harriers, American kestrels, prairie falcons and golden eagles throughout Crook County and they’re usually associated more closely with open/agricultural areas. Bald eagles and osprey, on the other hand, are more closely associated with water bodies. Look for northern goshawks throughout the Ochoco National Forest, and for ducklings and goslings in rivers and lakes.

Prineville Reservoir Wildlife Area

The Prineville Reservoir Wildlife Area offers access to view a wide variety of wildlife, including deer, coyotes, otter, beaver, raptors, shorebirds and waterfowl. Maps of the wildlife area are available at the Prineville ODFW office, at Prineville Reservoir State Park office and the ODFW website. Vehicles must remain on open roads, designated by a green dot, and cross-country motorized travel is prohibited.

DESCHUTES COUNTY

Weather conditions in the high desert are unpredictable at this time of year. Nighttime temperatures can dip below freezing and it’s not unusual to experience the occasional snow squall during the day. However, nice days and warmer conditions are also on the menu and that encourages reptiles to venture out from their rocky winter residence. A good way to tell if it’s warm enough for reptile activity is to touch the rocks. If they feel warm, you can expect to see lizards around rock piles and snakes around ponds and wetlands, where you are also likely to hear Pacific tree frogs and see small packets of their eggs attached to vegetation below the water line.

Drivers should be aware that the Cascades Lakes Highway, between Mount Bachelor Village and the Hwy 42 junction south of Crane Prairie Reservoir, and Hwy. 242 connecting Sisters to the west side of the Cascade Mountains close during the winter. For information on current road conditions we recommend you visit ODOT’s Trip Check site or call Deschutes County Road maintenance (541 388-6581). A little research before heading into the high country can save you major problems.

Wickiup and Crane Prairie Reservoirs are good areas to see bald eagles, common loon, horned grebe and tree swallows.

Smith Rock State Park in northeast Deschutes county in a good place to see both bald and golden eagles. Also look for yellow-bellied marmots (a favorite food item for golden eagles) out and about on warm sunny days.

Other good birding locations include Camp Polk Meadows, located a few miles northeast of Sisters on Camp Polk Road, where there is a wide variety of birds this time of year. Visitors to the meadows are likely to see American kestrel, great horned owl, multiple warbler species, kingfisher, Virginia rail, Wilson’s snipe, California quail, hairy and downy woodpeckers, pygmy nuthatches, mourning doves and western bluebirds to name a few.

Other wildlife viewing areas include Tumalo Reservoir (west of Highway 20 between Sister and Bend); Pelton Dam wildlife overlook and Lake Simtustus (Deschutes River northwest of Madras); and Hatfield Lakes (just north of the Bend airport). Look for Canada geese, American wigeon, green-winged teal, bufflehead, ring-necked ducks, northern shovelers, lesser scaup, common and Barrow’s goldeneye, multiple gull species, and various grebes including horned, eared, western, and Clark’s, along with deer, rabbits, and a variety of other mammals, reptiles and amphibians.  

Bird watching is not just limited to wild places, as residents and visitors to Bend can watch an osprey pair nesting adjacent to the Parkway that runs through the city. Other opportunities to view a diversity of bird species (and other wildlife) without leaving Bend include areas along the trails that follow the Deschutes River.

Whether you’re interested in song birds, waterfowl or raptors, and prefer remote birding locations or those closer to urban areas, directions to a long list of great birding locations can be found at the East Cascades Audubon Society’s web site. 04/24/19

THE DALLES DISTRICT

The Lower Deschutes River provides ample wildlife viewing opportunities. California bighorn sheep are frequently observed in the canyon and can provide fantastic viewing all times of the year. The best spot to view sheep is from the BLM access road just downstream and across the river from Sherars Falls (along Hwy 216). Focus your efforts near large cliff complexes for best viewing.

You can also see sheep from The Lower Deschutes Wildlife Area access trail on the east side of the river by hiking up from the mouth of the river. Sheep can be seen as low as river mile 7 or 8.

The John Day River Canyon also is home to bighorn Sheep but access is a bit more limited. The easiest place to access the canyon is at Cottonwood Canyon State Park. Hike up or downstream from the access point to look for sheep.

Oak woodlands throughout Hood River and Wasco counties provide food and cover for many wildlife species. Acorns from these trees are a particularly important fall and early winter food source for western gray squirrels and deer. This time of year, you may also notice acorn woodpeckers storing acorns within small holes they create in dead oak limbs for use later in the year.

Other woodpeckers such as Lewis’s woodpeckers may be found scouring live and dead oak trees for insects found in the wood. Even fallen oak limbs decomposing on the ground can provide havens for reptiles and amphibians looking for refuge from late summer heat.  

You can see a variety of common raptor species throughout the Mid-Columbia district. Common wintering species include red-tailed hawk, rough-legged hawk, golden eagle, bald eagle, American kestrel, and northern harrier. Other less commonly seen species include prairie falcon, and peregrine falcon.  

As days get colder, wintering waterfowl will show up along the Columbia River. There sill be large rafts of American coot, greater and lesser scaup, and ring-necked ducks throughout the Mid-Columbia. Other waterfowl species include American wigeon, mallard, gadwall, Canada geese, green-winged Teal, northern pintail, northern shoveler, redhead, canvasback, common goldeneye, bufflehead, and common merganser. The best viewing is on very cold and snowy days. Many of the state parks throughout the gorge, including Mayer State Park, offer great viewing opportunities.

The Columbia River attracts large numbers of wintering bald eagles that you can see throughout the district. A great place to see them congregate is at The Dalles Dam.

There also are great wildlife viewing opportunities on The Woosley Tract of Lower Deschutes Wildlife area. The area includes many unique bird species as well as bighorn sheep. You can get to this area through BLM lands at the mouth of Oak, Ferry or Ward canyons. You will need a boat to access the area, which provides a very remote experience, with very few, if any, other people around. Please call The Dalles district office at 541 296 4628 with any questions about getting to the area.  

White River Wildlife Area

Photography opportunities for deer and elk are good right now. You’ll see both bulls and bucks throughout the wildlife area. With the amount of snow in the mountains now, more animals are moving down into the wildlife area with the opportunity to see bigger groups of deer and elk. If you’re traveling on or near the wildlife area, be alert for big game animals, particularly deer and elk, crossing the road.

The wildlife area is also home to many other game and nongame species. Look for wild turkeys foraging, skunks, coyotes, the occasional river otter and muskrat in waterways and black bear or cougar as they move throughout the wildlife area.

It is also possible to see bald eagles and golden eagles on the Wildlife Area. You can spot other raptors such as red-tailed hawks, American kestrels and northern harriers hunting their prey. Look for birds perched on powerlines/poles, fences and trees.

Lewis’ woodpeckers, pileated woodpeckers, flickers, western meadowlarks, Steller’s jays, scrub jays, gray jays, Townsend’s solitaire, horned larks, golden-crowed kinglets, and robins are all at home on the wildlife area. A variety of ducks and geese are in the area and more will arrive with future inclement weather.

You can also find many reptiles and amphibians around the wildlife area in the spring, summer and fall. In warmer temperatures look for bullfrogs, newts and other smaller species near bodies of water. Be on the lookout for a variety of snakes including garter snakes, bull snakes and the poisonous western rattlesnake.  

A parking permit is required to park at White River Wildlife Area. Find out how to buy a parking permit. 

Current road and weather conditions:  Travel is allowed only on roads that are designated by the green dot. Many of the roads are now closed for winter to protect the roads and wintering wildlife. Look for road information maps at entrances to the wildlife area. Very cold and snowy weather is upon us.  Many of the roads are icy so be prepared and drive carefully. Reminders:

• Display your required parking permit when visiting the wildlife area.
• Camping in the wildlife area is allowed only in designated camping areas.
• Campfires are allowed only in designated camping areas with an established fire ring.
• Be prepared for snowy conditions and below freezing temperatures.  
• Please pack out your trash.
• No ATVs allowed in the wildlife area.

12/4/19

SE WILDLIFE VIEWING

HARNEY COUNTY

Colder temperatures will cause remaining water bodies to freeze up nearly completely during the coming weeks, resulting in most waterbirds leaving the area. Wintering raptors have arrived and you can spot them soaring and feeding around agricultural fields throughout the Harney Basin.

As fall progresses, look for deer, elk, and antelope to remain active for longer periods of the day. Mule deer rut has begun and deer will beginning to transition to winter ranges. Deer will begin to move into lower elevations as severe weather events increase in frequency and daylight hours dwindle. This annual transition into winter ranges often makes large animals more visible, and may provide opportunities for viewers and photographers.

MALHEUR COUNTY

Raptor and waterfowl viewing are available in the county. The Snake River corridor provides numerous opportunities to see multiple bird species associated with the river and adjacent agriculture areas, including red-tailed, northern harrier and rough legged hawk and, on occasion, golden eagles.

Many species of ducks including mallards, wood ducks, wigeon, green-winged teal, golden eyes, mergansers and bufflehead are also present.

KLAMATH COUNTY

Rough-legged hawks are beginning to show up from northern breeding locations and are easily found foraging around agricultural areas throughout the basin. Look for red-tailed hawks and northern harriers in agricultural areas as well.

Bald eagles have begun moving into the Klamath Basin. Good areas to view wintering bald eagles are along Eagle Ridge and Shoalwater Bay accessed from Eagle Ridge Road from Hwy 140. The Lower Klamath National Wildlife Refuge provides great viewing opportunities as well.

The Tule Lake and Lower Klamath National Wildlife Refuges offer excellent viewing opportunities during the fall. Shoalwater Bay located along Eagle Ridge accessed from Hwy 140 is a great spot for viewing this time of year. Ducks, geese, and shorebirds are the main attraction now.

The Link River trail below Upper Klamath Lake and the Wood River Wetlands are excellent places to view many species of wildlife including deer, river otter, muskrat, mink, buffleheads, goldeneye, great-blue heron and great egret.

Deer will begin their annual migration to lower elevation wintering grounds as snow begins to arrive and deer enter into the breeding season. Drivers should be extra vigilant while the deer are migrating.

Klamath Wildlife Area 

Miller Island Unit

• The Miller Island Unit is located 6 miles south and west of Klamath Falls. Miller Island Unit is closed to all access from 10 p.m. until 4 a.m.
• Oct. 1 – Dec. 31: Open to public use Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays. Open to game bird hunting Oct. 5 and 6 and every following Monday, Wednesday and Saturday during authorized game bird seasons. Upland game bird shooting hours begin at 10:00 a.m. All other days are closed to all entry, except public rds., parking areas, boat ramp, designated birding trail and designated dog training area. Oct. 19, all of Miller Island Unit is open to youth hunters only on a first-come basis
• Overnight camping is not allowed on the Miller Island Unit.

A Wildlife Area Parking Permit is now required to park on the Wildlife Area. Cost is $10 daily or $30 annually. Free with purchase of hunting license; just be sure to put it on your dashboard. Find out how to buy a parking permit. 

Waterfowl

Waterfowl migration has definitely slowed. Duck species found on the area at this time are: mallard, northern shoveler, gadwall, canvasback, redhead, cinnamon teal, American green-winged teal, northern pintail, American wigeon, ruddy duck, wood duck, ring-necked duck, bufflehead, common and barrow’s goldeneye, large numbers of ruddy duck and common and hooded mergansers. American coot are numerous at this time.

Flocks of western Canada geese are scattered across the area and will continue to show up in greater numbers as winter progresses.

Shorebirds, waders and other waterbirds

Great blue herons and American bitterns are scattered around the area.

Yellow legged species, long-billed dowitchers and peeps can still be found on the area. Killdeer are a common sight almost anywhere.

There are still large numbers of common snipe around.

Pied billed and eared grebes are still common on the area. One person recently spotted a loon on the river next to Miller Island.

Double-crested cormorants are in the area, while American white pelicans are getting hard to find.

Raptors

Look for great horned and barn owls at dusk. Red-tailed hawks, rough-legged hawks, northern harriers, cooper’s hawks, American kestrels and prairie falcons are foraging throughout the wildlife area. Eagle numbers are low, but a few young and one or two pairs are on Miller Island. Peregrine falcons, red-shouldered hawks and Swainson’s hawks are occasional visitors this time of year also.

Upland Game Birds

California quail and ring-necked pheasant are scattered around the old homesteads and the headquarters area.

Songbirds and other passerines

Visitors will find Eurasian collared and mourning doves scattered over the area.

American and lesser goldfinches, house finches, white-crowned and golden-crowned sparrows, dark-eyed juncos, American robins, varied thrush, spotted towhees, black-billed magpies, western meadowlarks, horned larks and northern flickers continue to be a common site throughout the area. Brewer’s and red-winged blackbird numbers have decreased, but there may still be a few around.

Look for marsh wrens and song sparrows in dense stands of tall emergent hard stem bulrush and broad-leaf cattail; savannah sparrows in the uplands, and belted-kingfishers in trees near ditches and canals.

Black phoebe are common throughout the area.

Shrike prefer the shrub dominated uplands of the southern part of Miller Island.

Common ravens are quite numerous right now, along with the occasional crow.

Mammals

This time of year, visitors may see muskrat around dusk. The may also spot beaver, river otter, mink, long-tailed weasel, coyotes, stripped skunk, black-tailed jackrabbit, mountain cottontail and raccoon using the Wildlife Area. Deer are also occasionally spotted on the area.

If you have any questions, please contact Klamath Wildlife Area at (541) 883-5732.

LAKE COUNTY

Motorists should remember that mule deer movements continues from transition to winter ranges. Mule deer rut (breeding season) has begun and bucks are in search of does and are distracted motorists should be extra vigilant during this time. Mule deer will move along Hwy 31 between La Pine and Silver Lake, along the Bear Flat Road between Antelope Flat and Silver Lake, along Hwy 31 between Summer Lake and Paisley, and along Hwy 395 from Valley Falls to Lakeview. In addition, mule deer will cross Highway 97 from Bend to Klamath Falls.

Motorist are asked to slow down and watch for mule deer crossing highways particularly in the early morning and evening. Check out 7 things you can do to avoid vehicle/wildlife collisions.

Fall staging is nearly over with most migrants having moved south to wintering areas.

Western Canada and greater white-fronted geese are around at this time. Western Canada geese are widely distributed across Lake County. Look for family groups and broods on the larger impoundments and ponds.

The peak of migrant trumpeter and tundra swans has probably occurred and numbers will continue to decline as winter conditions continue. Some local trumpeter swans are part of restoration efforts and will be neck-banded with green collars and white alphanumeric symbols. Viewers are encouraged to “read” the collars and report them to ODFW. Collars will have the Greek letter Theta (Ѳ) or the symbol “@” and two numerals that are read from the body toward the head.

Most shorebird species and large flocks have departed towards wintering grounds further to the south and coastal areas. Wintering killdeer and Wilson’s snipe may be observed. American bittern, black-crowned night-herons and great blue herons are present in low numbers. Great egrets and white-faced ibis have mostly departed south.

A few American bittern, black-crowned night-herons and great blue herons may still be in the area. Great egrets and white-faced ibis have mostly departed south.

Gulls (ring-billed and California), terns (Caspian and Forster’s) and double-crested cormorants have mostly departed but a few remain. American white pelicans remain scattered throughout Lake County.

There is a variety of raptor species distributed throughout all vegetation types including bald and golden eagles, northern harriers, red-tailed hawks, Cooper and sharp-shinned hawks, and American kestrels. Winter and migrate rough-legged hawks have recently been observed. Ferruginous hawks, Prairie and peregrine falcons can occasional be seen.

Passerine species, especially white-crowned and golden crowned sparrows and dark eyed juncos, are around with the best diversity in riparian areas. You may still spot American and lesser goldfinches, house finches, spotted towhees, black-billed magpies, western meadow larks, norther flickers, American robins, varied thrushes, loggerhead shrikes, Steller’s and scrub jays numbers are increasing. Large flocks of red-winged, Brewers and yellow-headed blackbirds as they prepare to migrate.

This time of year, visitors will see flocks of migrant warblers, flycatchers, sparrows and other passerines. Typically, rarities and vagrants show-up now, so keep a sharp eye out and scan flocks.

Mule Deer

As the winter progresses, deer will remain active for longer periods of the day. Most deer have moved into lower elevations as severe weather events increase in frequency and daylight hours dwindle. Mule deer rut (breeding season) has begun and bucks are in search of does and are distracted providing opportunity for viewing and photography.

Motorists should remember that mule deer movements continues from transition to winter ranges. Mule deer rut (breeding season) has begun and bucks are in search of does and are distracted motorists should be extra vigilant during this time. Mule deer will move along Hwy 31 between La Pine and Silver Lake, along the Bear Flat Road between Antelope Flat and Silver Lake, along Hwy 31 between Summer Lake and Paisley, and along Hwy 395 from Valley Falls to Lakeview. In addition, mule deer will cross Hwy 97 from Bend to Klamath Falls. Motorist are asked to slow down and watch for mule deer crossing highways particularly in the early morning and evening.

Please consider using binoculars or spotting scopes to watch deer from a distance to reduce disturbing wintering deer as much as possible. Because deer are most vulnerable during winter, private landowners along with state and federal agencies have cooperated to create the Cabin Lake/Silver Lake Road Closure, to reduce harassment to wintering mule deer. All roads within the closure are closed to all motor vehicle use from Dec. 1 through March 31. Forest Service roads 27, 28 and road 2516 to Mowich Spring are open to travel, and provide opportunities to observe wintering mule deer. A copy of the map can be found here.

Pronghorn

Pronghorn antelope prefer to winter in open sagebrush and agricultural fields, at low elevations. As the winter progresses, look for large groups of pronghorn antelope to remain active for longer periods of the day.

The occasion to notice and watch wildlife makes for a great learning experience for children and families. Use binoculars or spotting scopes to watch pronghorn antelope from a distance, in order to disturb them as little as possible. Many of these wintering areas are private property, so watch pronghorn from a vehicle or the roadside to avoid trespassing and landowner conflicts.

Look for wintering pronghorn antelope herds in the agricultural fields surrounding Fort Rock, Silver Lake, Valley Falls and Lakeview. There also visable in the low sage flats on public land around Duncan Reservoir and the desert areas south of the Wagontire road and west of Hwy 395 around Horse and Euchre Mountains.

Pronghorn antelope have horns instead of antlers like mule deer and elk. Both buck and doe pronghorn antelope have horns. The outer sheath is shed annually by December with the new horn grown by the middle of March.

A prominent prong or point on the horn can identify buck pronghorn antelope. In addition, the buck's entire nose appears black and all bucks have a visible black cheek patch. Doe pronghorn antelope do not have a prong or point and the horn is usually less than 5 inches long. A doe's nose is much lighter colored and a doe will not have a visible black cheek patch.

If you see a group of pronghorn remember to check behind the group. The dominant buck is often following well behind the group.

Summer Lake Wildlife Area
This section was updated on Dec. 3, 2019

Game bird hunting seasons are underway at this time. However, wildlife viewing opportunities are in still available in those same areas but at this time are probably poor due to inclement weather conditions.

The Schoolhouse Lake Wildlife Viewing blind provides an excellent opportunity to see a wide variety of waterbirds. Hunting is not permitted in this area and viewing access is confined to the blind only.

Fall migration is over, and most species have already departed the area heading to other staging and wintering areas further south. Winter conditions along with low bird numbers are occurring now.

Posted refuges are closed to viewing access at this time.

Wildlife Area Parking permits are required for all users of Summer Lake Wildlife Area. The cost is $10.00 daily or $30.00 annually and permits are valid on all ODFW Wildlife Areas. Find out how to buy a parking permit. Please purchase parking permits prior to arriving, since there are no point of sale agents in Summer Lake and internet connectivity for electronic purchases is often difficult.

Motor vehicle access on the Wildlife Viewing Loop and major dike roads (Bullgate and Windbreak) and Work Road are closed to motor vehicle access for the remainder of the year.

Waterfowl

Fall staging is mostly over with most migrants having already moving south to wintering areas in California, especially over the past week when harsh winter conditions arrived to the area.

A small number of wintering western Canada geese will remain widely distributed across the wildlife area. Nearly all greater white-fronted geese have departed to wintering areas in California but visitor might see a few stragglers. Lesser snow geese have largely departed too, except for a few small flocks.

We’re probably approaching winter swan population levels now, many appeared to have migrated south over the past week.  Still, viewers can expect to find 1,000-2,000 wintering swans, including several hundred trumpeters.

A few resident trumpeter swans remain widely scattered across the wildlife area. These birds are part of restoration efforts and will be neck-banded with green collars and white alphanumeric symbols. Viewers are encouraged to “read” the collars and report them to wildlife area personnel. Collars will have the Greek letter Theta (Ѳ) or the symbol “@” and two numerals. Read them from the body toward the head.

Shorebirds, waders and other waterbirds

Very few shorebirds remain and diversity is sparse. Visitors may see a very small number wintering killdeer and Wilson’s snipe at this time and rarely a few other hardy species.

A few American bittern, black-crowned night-herons and great blue herons are around but in low numbers.

American coots numbers have declined dramatically with most departing recently to wintering areas to the south. Sometimes the occasional wintering Virginia rail and sora can be found.

Very few grebes around this time of the year when frozen conditions occur, but sometimes hardy individuals of four species (Clark’s, eared, pied-billed and western) can be found. Look for them in large open bodies of water such as Ana Reservoir, North Bullgate Refuge and North Levee Impoundment.

Raptors and others

Northern harriers and red-tailed hawks are common this time of the year. Ferruginous hawks, American kestrel, peregrine and prairie falcons are seen occasionally. Arctic breeding rough-legged hawk have arrived and numbers should be increasing, many will spend the winter here. Bald and golden eagles are also found on a regular basis, since both species frequently hunt the waterbirds staging in good numbers on the wildlife area at this time.

Great horned owls remain widely scattered across the entire wildlife area, especially in the trees at campgrounds. Most pairs are beginning to call at night on a regular basis. Common-barn owls are roosting in buildings at Headquarters and sometimes call at night. Look for short-eared owls in early morning or evening hours.

Upland game birds

Visitor sometimes see California quail and ring-necked pheasants at Headquarters and north end upland areas. Quail are forming large coveys especially around agricultural fields and old homestead areas.

Songbirds and other passerines

Eurasian collared doves remain very numerous at Headquarters Complex. Mourning doves have largely departed for warmer climes, but a few may still be in the area.

Nearly all swallows have left the area, although late migrants, especially barn swallows, may still be around.

Resident and local area American robins, cedar waxwings, loggerhead shrikes, Steller’s and sometimes scrub jays are sometimes in varied numbers across the wildlife area, especially around Headquarters and old homestead sites. Look and listen for Townsend’s solitaires along the valley floor at this time. Northern flickers remain common across most of the area and we’ve seen sapsuckers, downy and hairy, recently.

Look for wintering sparrows such as golden-crowned and white-crowned at the Headquarters feeder along with American and lesser goldfinches and dark-eyed juncos.

Visitors will find fair numbers of marsh wrens and song sparrows in the dense stands of hardstem bulrush and broad-leaved cattail along dikes and levees throughout the wetlands. They might also see migrant and wintering sparrows along dikes and roads and at Headquarters in increasing numbers.

Red-winged blackbird numbers have declined dramatically, but there are still a few, along with Brewer’s blackbirds, scattered across the wildlife area especially around campgrounds and homestead sites. Western meadowlarks numbers have declined, with just a few individuals around.

Facilities and Access

Summer Lake Wildlife Area requires a $10 daily parking permit or a $30 annual parking permit. Find out how to buy a parking permit.  Please purchase parking permits prior to arriving, since there are no point of sale agents in Summer Lake and internet connectivity for electronic purchases is often difficult.

Motor vehicle access on the Wildlife Viewing Loop and major dike roads (Bullgate and Windbreak and Work Road) are now closed for the remainder of the year.

Check out the Schoolhouse Lake Viewing Blind to observe waterbirds in a refuge area where hunting is prohibited. Access is permitted to the blind but the dike road continuing into the refuge is closed to all entry to avoid disturbance to birds in the sanctuary.

All access into posted refuges is prohibited during hunting season except to retrieve lawfully taken wildlife.

Camping is permitted at four sites on the Wildlife Area. Campgrounds are primitive but each has vault toilets, trash barrels and a few picnic tables.

Habitat

Most of the area’s wetland units are frozen over and ice-covered at this time. And, a majority of the area remains covered with snow. Summer Lake proper is increasing in size at this time and will continue to grow as winter progress.

Most emergent vegetation has lodged-over and turned brown. Visibility into many marsh areas is improving due to recent snow accumulation.

Upland habitat is in fair good condition, but covered with a few inches of snow at this time. Tree and shrubs in plots and orchards have set an abundance of berries and fruit providing bountiful food sources and sheltered areas to many species of wildlife.

Please contact Summer Lake Wildlife Area at (541) 943-3152 or e-mail martin.j.stlouis@state.or.us for additional information.

NE WILDLIFE VIEWING

BAKER COUNTY

Bighorn sheep can be seen in the Burnt River Canyon west of Durkee or along the Snake River Road south of Richland. The best viewing is in the early morning and late in the evening.

Take the Snake River Road between Richland and Huntington to see bald and golden eagles along the Snake River.

There are deer throughout the valley. Early in the morning and late in the afternoon are good times to view wildlife. A drive through the foothills of the Baker valley and through the Keating valley can turn up good numbers of deer.

Elkhorn Wildlife Area

Elkhorn Wildlife Area is known for the Rocky Mountain elk and mule deer herds that frequent the area during the winter. There are two good viewing sites. The Anthony Creek site is located about eight miles west of I-84 on North Powder River Lane. From I-84 take the North Powder Exit (Exit 285). About 150 elk can be seen here on any given day. From the overlook on Auburn Road, watch hundreds of elk and mule deer. It is on the south side of Old Auburn Road, which branches off Highway 7 about six miles south of Baker City.

GRANT COUNTY

Bighorn sheep can be spotted from the South Fork road near Jackass Creek. Early mornings or late afternoons are your best chances for catching them out on the rocky outcrops.

Mule Deer have moved into the John Day Valley. Early mornings or late afternoons are the best time to view groups of deer in the agricultural fields. Viewers should be cautious when driving because there are a lot of deer on the highway.

UNION COUNTY

Ladd Marsh Wildlife Area

Hundreds of waterfowl remain in the area, including Canada goose, mallard, northern pintail and American green-winged teal. During the day, they are most often loafing on open water areas. Many wetlands and portions of ponds are frozen, limiting areas for waterfowl.

Many tundra swans are now using the area. Look for them on the Foothill Rd. refuge as well as in other ponds and wetlands. At least one trumpeter swan has been on the refuge off Foothill Rd. With their large numbers, large bodies and movements, swan may keep portions of wetlands from freezing over. Binoculars or a scope from the Foothill Rd. viewpoint offer the best views of waterfowl in the refuge below.

White-crowned sparrows, song sparrows, dark-eyed juncos and black-capped chickadees are the most common songbirds on the area at this time. A swamp sparrow has been spotted in one of the mixed flocks, and American tree sparrows should be visible in shrub islands. Northern shrikes are also present around the wildlife area, hunting from trees, shrubs, posts and wires.

Raptors are numerous around the area and include red-tailed hawk, northern harrier, and both sharp-shinned and Cooper’s hawks. Watch for both ferruginous and rough-legged hawks on power poles and on the ground in open fields.

Deer and elk have been scarce but you may see a few in hay meadows, mostly at dawn and dusk. Glassing the hill above Foothill road can also reveal deer feeding on the slopes and among the shrubs. Snow and cold temperatures may cause elk to move down into the wildlife area.

Note: All visitors must have in their possession a free daily permit to access the wildlife area. Permits are available at several self-check-in stations at entry points and parking lots. All visitors also need a parking permit to park on the wildlife area. Find out how to buy a $10 daily or $30 annual  parking permit. 

UMATILLA COUNTY

Columbia Basin Wildlife Areas

Willow Creek and Coyote Springs wildlife areas are both nestled between Interstate 84 and the Columbia River, and have excellent viewing for wetland and riparian obligate bird species. The upland areas of savanna and shrub steppe also host a variety of bird species. Willow Creek has an ample deer herd, and you’ll see evidence of beaver activity on the Willow Creek delta area of the wildlife area.

The Irrigon Wildlife Area has riparian and wetland habitat and hosts a number of bird species associated with each habitat. One can see a number of waterfowl and wading bird species in the pothole pond areas. Painted turtles are also common in the pond areas. White pelicans are commonly found along the Columbia River as well. Numbers of geese and ducks are growing along the Columbia River and will be commonly trading back and forth along the river.

WALLOWA COUNTY

A good place to observe mule deer is along the Wallowa Lake highway between Joseph and the south end of Wallowa Lake. Drive slowly and watch along the moraine on the east side of the lake around dawn and dusk. Be careful to use the turnouts when stopping to watch these animals, as there will be other traffic on the road. Look for white-tailed deer can be found throughout the Wallowa Valley on or near agricultural lands. Visitors can see elk at the Wenaha Wildlife Area at Troy.

Canada geese, and various species of ducks are feeding in agricultural fields and along streams and ponds around the county. You’ll spot raptor species in the upper valley east of Enterprise and Joseph, also along the Zumwalt and Crow Creek roads.

The Annual Wallowa County Christmas Bird Count is scheduled for December 22, 2019. This is a county-wide identification and count of bird species in Wallowa County and adds to years of trend data from the recurring event. For more information or to attend, please contact Mike Hansen at mhansen97846@gmail.com 

MARINE WILDLIFE VIEWING

The Oregon coast is a great place to come and view a variety of wildlife. Enjoy the great diversity of life: from giant whales and barking sea lions, to majestic bald eagles and diving pelicans, to showy Harlequin ducks and flocking shorebirds, to the tiny anemones and crabs inhabiting tidepools. There is always something new to discover. Visit our wildlife viewing map for locations to visit and view wildlife along the Oregon coast. Maximize your viewing of coastal creatures by bringing binoculars for close-up views.

Beach Safety: http://www.oregon.gov/OPRD/PARKS/Pages/beach_safety.aspx 

Whales, Orcas, and Porpoises

Whales migrate along the Oregon coast on their way to their feeding grounds and breeding and calving grounds. Peak times to view them are late December through late March to early April. In addition to migratory animals, there are approximately 200 resident gray whales that live nearly year-round off Oregon. Gray whales, humpbacks, orcas, and sperm whales can all be seen off the coast. For descriptions, visit our Whales, Dolphins and Porpoises page.

Look for whales as they surface to blow a spout of 6-12 feet high, depending on the sex. Gray whales usually surface to breathe 3-5 times before making a deep feeding dive when you can spot their tail flukes. The best time to view whales are on calm days when you won’t confuse whale spouts with whitecaps. While you can see whale spouts with the naked eye, use binoculars for the best viewing. A map of best places to see whales (and additional information for whale watchers) is available from Oregon State Parks.    

Pinnipeds – Harbor Seals, Sea Lions, and Elephant Seals

The easiest marine mammals to observe are harbor seals and sea lions. Often seen in bays lounging on piers, tideflats, or sandbars, these animals can be entertaining to watch. Good locations for viewing include the South Jetty of the Columbia River, sandbars in Netarts Bay, near the mouth of the Siletz River, Yaquina Bay between the jetties and along the bay front, sandbars and beaches near the mouth of Alsea Bay, Cape Argo, Rouge Reef, and Simpson Reef. For descriptions, visit our Seals and Sea Lions page. Remember to stay away from seals and sea lions as they can become aggressive and are protected by the Marine Mammal Act.

A rarer sighting are Elephant seals which can be seen at Simpson Reef on Shell Island at Cape Arago State Park.

It is normal for seal pups to be left alone for long periods of time while the mother is out hunting and they often will not move when approached. Please remember to stay away from them. If they are in a high traffic area, please call your local State Park so signs can be placed around the animal to tell others to stay away.

If you think a marine mammal is in trouble, please call the Marine Mammal Stranding Network at 800-452-7888.

Birds

The bays, jetties, spits, and beaches are great places to see a variety of birds. At the coast, you can spot birds of prey, waterfowl, seabirds, songbirds, and shorebirds. The diversity of birds is highest during spring and fall migrations. Check ebird and Audubon Rare Bird Alerts for lists of recent sightings. Bird viewing tips are available from the US Fish and Wildlife Service. Another great resource for birders is the Oregon Coast Birding Trail website, which includes self-guided itineraries for any area of the Oregon Coast and a species checklist. For descriptions of birds species, visit our bird page.

Ducks, Geese, and Pelicans

Huge rafts of waterfowl can be seen in the estuaries and bays during spring and fall migrations. Common species during migrations include surf scoter, bufflehead, American widgeon, northern pintail, ring-necked duck, Brant, merganser, canvasback, redhead, greater and lesser scaup, goldeneye, green-winged teal, and ruddy duck. Some less common species inlcude are long-tailed duck (in Yaquina Bay), Harlequin duck, brown pelican, Eurasian widgeon, white-winged and black scoters, and an occasional Eider.

Birds of Prey

Birds of prey are common at the coast. Bald eagles sometimes perch on the beach, on a mudflat, in the bay or the tops of large trees. In the spring and summer, you might see osprey catching fish in the water and roosting on a nest built on a platform near the water. Peregrine falcons also nest near water on cliffs or bridges over estuaries. Places to see peregrine falcons include Cape Meares and Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area.

Seabirds

Don’t forget the seabirds! There are some common murres and pigeon guillemots in the bays but you’re more likely to see them on rocky islands or in the ocean by cliffs with nesting areas. From May to August, tufted puffins nest on islands at Haystack Rock in Cannon Beach and Face Rock in Bandon. Remember to bring binoculars or a spotting scope to see them. A great time to check out the coast for offshore pelagic seabirds is after a large storm. Check out the U.S. Fish & Wildlife’s Seabirds of the Pacific Northwest guide for information about Oregon’s seabirds, where to view them, and birdwatching etiquette.

Shorebirds

During spring and fall, shorebirds gather in flocks along the coast as they migrate. Jetties and beaches are good places to look ,as well as in the bays during mid-low tide as they feed at the water’s edge. If you go out at peak low tide, the birds may be too far out to ID depending on the tide. Some species you’re likely to see include whimbrel, marbled godwit, semi-palmated plover, dunlin, sanderling and western sandpiper. The black oystercatcher and western snowy plover are less common and protected resident species.

Black oystercatchers are easily identifiable with their distinctive black plumage, pink legs, long orange-red bill, and an orange red eye ring framing a bright yellow eye. Nevertheless, they can be difficult to spot since they nest on rocky shores. These monogamous, territorial birds return to the same spot each year and are indicators of a healthy rocky intertidal community. Look for oystercatchers on rocky shores that are inaccessible to ground predators and where there are little human disturbance.

These “sensitive” birds are best viewed from afar. Easily disturbed bird, especially during the nesting season, oystercatchers are listed as sensitive by the state and federally listed as a species of concern. The best chance to see them are near Cape Meares, Depoe Bay, at Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area, Seal Rock State Park, near Cape Perpetua, and many other rocky intertidal areas along the coast.

The western snowy plover is a small shorebird that prefers sandy beaches with little vegetation and is both state and federally listed as Threatened. They are relatively small and can blend into their surroundings with their pale brown and white or buff coloring, so it is possible to unknowingly approach them when walking along the beach. They nest above the high tide line in the sand, leaving them susceptible to a variety of predators and human disturbance.

Habitat alteration by human development, non-native European beach grass that conceals predators, and disturbance by unleashed dogs and motor vehicle use on beaches are the greatest threats to this tiny and important bird. In areas where they are nesting, state and federal land management agencies may close certain sections of beach or put special restrictions in place (e.g. no dogs, leashed dogs, access on wet sand only, etc.). For more information about closures, visit Oregon Parks and Recreation Department’s Beach Seasonal Recreation Restrictions page. Please obey all closures and follow activity restrictions to help save this struggling bird. If you see a western snowy plover outside a known protected area, please avoid that area of the beach and contact the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (541-867-4558) or your local Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife office.

Songbirds

As you explore around the bays, jetties, and beaches, keep an eye on the shore-side in bushes and trees and also on the ground for various songbirds like kinglets, chickadees, sparrows and warblers. Western meadowlarks are often seen on jetties and spits as they migrate. Other species that are common around the bay include great blue heron, belted kingfisher and cormorants.

Tidepools and Beach Combing

The Oregon Coast offers excellent opportunities for learning about and observing flora and fauna along shorelines. Here in the intertidal, the tides rise and fall twice daily. Be sure to consult a tide table to know if tides are incoming or outgoing when you visit and always keep an eye on the waves to have a safe, enjoyable experience.

Beaches

Beaches can be more than a place to lounge or fly a kite. In addition to the many types of birds that frequent Oregon’s shores, take a look for other inhabitants at the beach. Check the wrack line where the water deposits shells, algae and kelp, and driftwood that are food and homes to a large variety of unassuming actors. Beach hoppers, beetles, mussels, and gooseneck barnacles are just some of the animals you’ll find here. During the spring and summer, look for mole crabs under the sand. About the size of your thumb, mole crabs camouflage well but often leave tracks and divots and make small holes. Other tracks at the edges of the waterline are made by olive snails, which plow through the sand in search of food. Their colorful shells come in greys, purples, and pinks and have cultural significance to native peoples.

There are many other interesting finds that land ashore. Look for skate egg cases, also known as mermaid purses, and jellyfish-like By-the-Wind Sailor (Velella velella) hydrozoans that can land as huge blue rafts. Pyrosomes, which look like and feel like an opaque, bumpy pickle, are colonial tunicates that also wash ashore. Adult Dungeness crabs tend to molt simultaneously; females in the spring and males in the late summer. Molting is the shedding of their exoskeleton (outside hard parts) as they grow. Often people will encounter what they think are a beach littered with dead crab, but really they are crab molts (mass molting PIC).

Looking for ancient life? Wave action also reveals fossils of shelled animals at several locations, including Beverly Beach, Fogarty Creek State Park, Seal Rock, Cape Blanco, and Arcadia Beach.

Tidepools

Rocky shores are some of the most diverse ecosystems in the world. You’ll find all kinds of wonderful creatures – gumboot chitons, giant green anemones, and ochre sea stars, for example –along the rocky shoreline. The Oregon State Parks’ tidepools website has information on where and when to explore, what you can expect to see, and safety tips.

Watch your step! Did you know that barnacles can live up to 10-15 years, or that limpets (cone-shaped snails) are some of the most important grazers on rocky shores? Take care to minimize your impact as you explore Oregon’s rocky shores. Remember to leave things where they are for others to enjoy and to ensure these communities and important habitats persist.

Marine Protected Areas

Oregon hosts seven Marine Gardens, five Marine Reserves, and other marine protected areas. Marine gardens provide education and recreational experiences along beaches and tidepools. With the exception of single mussel and razor clam harvest at Cape Perpetua, marine gardens are “no take” areas. Check the Coast Explorer for a list and description of the marine gardens and the opportunities they provide. Oregon’s Marine Reserves prohibit fishing, but are open to many recreational activities including SCUBA diving, wildlife viewing, and tidepooling. Learn more about these opportunities at ODFW’s Oregon’s Marine Reserves.

BIG GAME HUNTING

NW BIG GAME HUNTING

Hunting and fire danger

Dry conditions and the associated fire danger can have a large impact on your hunting opportunity. It pays to check in advance to see if there are any access restrictions in the unit(s) you plan to hunt.

Hunting on private land

Please remember to check with the landowner for access restrictions prior to entering private lands. Hunters are reminded to have permission to hunt before accessing private lands.

In addition, industrial forestland owners will usually have information regarding access to their property posted on their gates and usually have a “hotline” devoted to providing up-to-date access for hunters.

Field care of harvested wildlife

The proper handling of harvested wildlife is the most important criterion to ensure its value as table fare. After properly tagging the animal, the hunter should remove the entrails and get the hide off to start the cool-down process. Wipe down the carcass with a dry cloth to remove any foreign material and keep the carcass clean by placing it into a cloth game bag. Warm weather conditions (greater than 50°F) can increase bacteria loads so hunters need to get the carcass cooled/refrigerated as soon as possible. Never place the carcass inside of a plastic bag, tarp or in water since wet or damp meat spoils more quickly. Talk to your local meat processor or butcher to get additional information concerning the proper care of wildlife or go online to find websites that cover this topic.

Be prepared for emergencies

Hunters need to be prepared for emergencies by keeping survival equipment such as food, water, signal mirror, whistle, sleeping bag and first aid kit with you and in your vehicle during your outdoor adventures. Don’t forget to wear the proper clothing; it is your first defense against the elements. Let someone know where you will be and when you expect to return just in case your vehicle gets stuck or breaks down.

OPEN: COUGAR, BLACK BEAR

NORTH AND MID-COAST (Saddle Mt., Wilson, western Trask, western Stott Mt., western Alsea, north Siuslaw wildlife management units)

Cougar: The most productive way to hunt cougar on the north coast is to use a predator call. Hunters are reminded if they harvest a cougar, they must have it checked in to an ODFW office within 10 days of harvest. See the 2019 Oregon Big Game Regulations for details.

Bear: Mid coast bears are very active right now hitting apple trees and any remaining berries (blackberries and huckleberries) so focus efforts on these areas. On the north coast, the bears have mostly denned up for the winter but may occasionally be active on exceptionally warm days. Typically, by December, most bears have become inactive and have gone into hibernation.  If you harvest a bear, you must have it checked in to an ODFW office within 10 days. Here’s more information.

WILLAMETTE UNITS (Scappoose, eastern Trask, Willamette, Santiam, McKenzie, N. Indigo wildlife management units)

General Deer Archery season: Some units have an additional late season until Dec. 8. Hunters should refer to the 2019 Big Game Regulations for the included units and the respective bag limits. Deer regulations are located on pages 26-27.

A number of Youth Elk hunts are happening throughout the area. Many Youth Elk hunts run thru Dec. 31, and Youth elk tag holders should check their 2019 Oregon Big Game Hunting Regulations on pages 51-52 for specific information.

Hunters that are unsure about the new paper or electronic tagging requirements should call or stop in at your local ODFW office prior to going to the field. We want you to have a safe, enjoyable, and legal hunting season.

The 2019 cougar season opened on Jan. 1 and will close on Dec. 31 or until the zone quota is met. Remember to purchase a 2019 Hunting License and 2019 Cougar Tag if you are planning to hunt for cougar this year. Winter snow provides good tracking conditions. A productive hunting technique is to use predator calls to mimic a distressed prey species. Approaching cougars can be difficult to see when you are predator calling so hunting with a partner is advised.

Successful cougar hunters will need to check-in any cougar taken at an ODFW office within 10 days of the kill. Hunters are reminded that biologists located in field offices may be out in the field handling other issues. Please call ahead to your local ODFW office and schedule a check-in appointment to ensure a Wildlife Biologist is available prior to bringing the harvested cougar. The hide and skull must be unfrozen and the skull and proof of sex must be attached to the hide.

Cougar hunters are reminded that it is required to submit the reproductive tract of any female cougar taken. The reproductive tract provides valuable information on the number and frequency of kittens born annually in Oregon and is a critical part of ODFW’s cougar population models. Please review the 2019 Big Game Hunting Regulations before your hunting trip to ensure that you are familiar with all of the requirements. See pages 62-63 of the 2019 Big Game Regulations for more information.

Fall black bear: The fall black bear season will be open through Dec. 31 in western Oregon. Hunters should target areas supporting seasonal forage. Food sources will change as the season progresses. Early in the season raspberries, cascara berries, trailing blackberries and insects are important sources of food. Later in the season, bears will shift foraging efforts to include Armenian (Himalayan) blackberries, manzanita, arctostaphylos species, huckleberries, madrone berries and other fruits.

Remember that there is a mandatory check in of your bear skull at an ODFW office within 10 days of harvest, and the skull must be unfrozen. Please call the ODFW office to schedule an appointment to check in your bear skull. These check ins provide valuable information used in managing bear populations and supporting bear hunting in Oregon. Additionally, hunters are requested but not required to submit the reproductive tract of any female bear harvested.

For certain seasons, it is unlawful to hunt bears using a centerfire rifle without a used or unused deer or elk tag valid. These seasons are listed on page 16 of the Big Game Regulations.

Please report observations of elk with hoof disease

If you see elk showing signs of elk hoof disease, including lame or limping elk or elk with damaged, injured, missing or deformed hooves, please report it using this online form.

Successful Elk Hunters:

In cooperation with Oregon State University, ODFW is asking for hunter’s assistance on an elk DNA project. Successful elk hunters are asked to take a small tissue sample (a piece of meat about the size of a nickel), put it in a Ziploc bag with records of the harvest date, location, WMU, and gender and then place it in the freezer. Samples can be dropped off at local ODFW offices at the hunter’s earliest convenience to be included in the study.

SW BIG GAME HUNTING

Hunting and fire danger

Dry conditions and the associated fire danger can have a large impact on your hunting opportunity. It pays to check in advance to see if there are any access restrictions in the unit(s) you plan to hunt.

Wolves and coyotes can look alike

Most wolves in the state today are in northeast Oregon but a few have dispersed further west and south. Wolves are protected by state and/or federal law and it is unlawful to shoot them. Coyote hunters need to take extra care to identify their target as wolves can look like coyotes, especially wolf pups in the mid-summer and fall. Please report any wolf sightings or wolf sign to ODFW using the online reporting system.

Test your identification skills with ODFW’s new Coyote and Gray Wolf ID Quiz.

Use the Oregon Hunting Map to see where to hunt.

OPEN: COYOTE, COUGAR, BLACK BEAR

COOS COUNTY (west Tioga, west Powers, north Sixes, southwest Siuslaw)

Closures on Private Forestland

Hunters need to be aware that ownership of several timber land parcels in Coos County has recently changed. In some cases the new owners have different access policies than their predecessors. Make sure you know what the policy is before accessing private land and don’t assume the policy is the same as prior years.

Coos Mountain Access

The Coos Mountain Access Area, which has been in effect since Aug. 25, 2018 will continue to have year-round access for the next three years. This is the newest Access Area in Oregon and encompasses about 63,000 acres in the heart of the Tioga Unit. Within this Access Area most of the arterial roads are open for motor vehicle access and many, but not all, of the secondary roads are open for foot or bike access. This new Access Area was created in response to some private landowners in the area expressing a willingness to allow public access in a way that is compatible with their land management goals.

Lands within Coos Mountain Access Area provide excellent opportunities for big game and upland gamebird hunting and viewing. Roads that are open to foot or bike access also provide great opportunities to hike or use mountain bikes in conjunction with hunting and viewing in an area where those opportunities are not plentiful. Roads open to motor vehicles are marked with green dots. All other roads are open, only to foot or bike access. For information on Coos Mountain Access Area, contact The Charleston Field Office at (541)888-5515. Maps are available.

General Deer:  Deer numbers on the south coast have been increasing in recent years in some locations. Buck ratios are adequate for a good season. Hunters will find deer in clearcuts with vigorously growing brush and grass as these forage types are high in nutrition.

When the weather is clear, hunters will find deer moving early in the mornings and late in the evenings. On cloudy or rainy days, deer may move mid-day too. Recent rain has resulted in green up across the landscape. South slopes could be best for finding deer but they could be anywhere because of the prolific food sources.  

Fall black bear: Bear populations in Coos County are healthy and due to the mild clear weather conditions, bear activity has remained very high. The ODFW office is dealing with many damage complaints involving bears. Apples seem to be a very attractive food resource presently. Locating bear trails to apple orchards and setting up a stand on them would be a very good way to hunt bears in this late part of the season.

Here in southern Oregon you can harvest two fall bears when you purchase a SW Additional Fall Black Bear tag. This tag is good for all of units 20-30.

It is mandatory to check in of your bear skull at an ODFW office or designated collection site within 10 days of harvest, the skull must be unfrozen. In addition if you harvest a female bear, please turn in the entire reproductive tract to ODFW if possible. See page 59 in the big game hunting regulations or MyODFW.com for more information.

Elk: Most of the elk populations in the Coos County area in pretty good shape even though most are a little below management objectives for population size. Bull ratios in the populations are mostly at or above management objectives and reproduction in the herds has been high enough to maintain herd sizes.  

Weather has had a big influence on elk distribution this fall. With recent sunny, mild conditions, elk are spending much of their time in heavy timber and are very inactive during day light. However, the weather forecast indicates the dry conditions may end soon. This should have a positive influence on elk activity during the day.

Coyote: Numbers are strong throughout Coos County. Using predator calls to lure them in can be an effective method for harvesting coyotes. Try calling in early morning and late afternoon. Be sure to ask permission before hunting on private land.

Test your identification skills with ODFW’s new Coyote and Gray Wolf ID Quiz.

Cougar: Cougar has reopened with the new year. The most productive way to hunt cougar is to use a predator call. Hunters are reminded if they harvest a cougar, they must have it checked in to an ODFW office within 10 days of harvest. See the 2019 Oregon Big Game Regulations for details.

DOUGLAS COUNTY (Dixon, S. Indigo, NW Evans Creek, Melrose, SW Siuslaw, E. Tioga and NE Powers Units)

Cougar: Look in areas adjacent to agriculture and within areas of higher concentrations of deer. When you find fresh tracks, set up and call with either mouth or electronic predator calls.

Cougars are abundant throughout with indicators pointing to stable or increasing numbers. Hunting cougar is a challenge because these animals are very secretive, but harvest success is greatest adjacent to private land with high deer populations using a predator call.

Coyote: Numbers are strong throughout Douglas County. Using predator calls to lure them in can be an effective method for harvesting coyotes. Try calling in early morning and late afternoon. Be sure to ask permission before hunting on private land.

Test your identification skills with ODFW’s new Coyote and Gray Wolf ID Quiz.

Fall black bear: The season extends through Dec. 31.

JACKSON, JOSEPHINE, CURRY COUNTIES (Applegate, Chetco, Evans Creek, Rogue, portions of Dixon, and Sixes)

Denman Wildlife Area

Reminder for all deer and elk hunter, once you find out whether you got a controlled deer and/or elk tag or not, you will still need to pick up your tags. Etag – you still have to go to the online account – purchase from the catalog – and choose your tag. If you have a Sports Pac you will have a “$” symbol next to your tag. It will populate your cart as zero payment. If you don’t have a Sports Pac, you will have to pay for the tag. Paper tag – you can go online or to a license agent and purchase your tag. If you have any problems contact an ODFW office for assistance.

Deer: Youth Late Deer Seasons begin on Dec. 15 in the Chetco, Applegate, Evans Creek and Rogue units. These are controlled hunts that require a tag through the draw process earlier this year. These hunts offer youth with a low stress environment to harvest a quality deer. Remember, since this is considered a youth hunt, all youth tag holders regardless of age are required to hunt with an adult 21 years or older.

If you happen to harvest a deer and are in the vicinity of one of ODFW’s field offices we would appreciate you stopping by so we can gather samples from your deer for age analysis and Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) testing. Although CWD has never been documented in Oregon regular monitoring of our deer and elk populations ensures early detection once it arrives in the state; this will aid in combating its spread once it is detected in Oregon.

Elk: There are several different controlled elk seasons occurring in southern Oregon at this time. Most are hunts on private lands to address ongoing elk damage issues.

Fall black bear: Bear hunting will continue through the end of the year. The Applegate unit has historically had some of the highest harvest in the state so focus your efforts there; however, the Rogue and Evans Creek units can also be very productive.

Fawn calls and other animal in distress sounds can be a useful tool when trying to harvest a bear.

Here in southern Oregon you can harvest two fall bears when you purchase a SW Additional Fall Black Bear tag. This tag is good for all of units 20-30.

As we get deeper into winter and the weather gets worse bears are going to get harder to find as they start to hibernate. Those bears that are still wondering around will be looking to eat as much food as possible before going to hibernate. Look for food sources such as leftover berries, acorns, and mushrooms where bears might concentrate their time.

Remember that there is a mandatory check in of your bear skull at an ODFW office or designated collection site within 10 days of harvest, the skull must be unfrozen.  In addition if you harvest a female bear you must turn in the entire reproductive tract to ODFW. Go to MyODFW.com or page 59 of the 2019 Big Game Regulations for more information.

Cougar season is open statewide year-round or until zone quotas are met (see zone quota page). Please remember it is mandatory to check in any harvested cougar with ODFW, including the unfrozen skull, hide, proof of sex, and reproductive tract if female.  Please call your local office to schedule the check in. For more information refer to page 62 of the 2019 Oregon Big Game Hunting Regulations.

Youth Antlerless Elk seasons began Aug. 1 in many areas across southern Oregon. These are controlled hunts that give youth a long, low-stress hunting season in which they can hopefully harvest an elk.

Elk this time of year are generally up in the national forests foraging in dark timber. As summer ends and weather gets more severe, they generally move down to lower elevations that boarder private land. September can be a very productive time as elk are typically more vocal and even cows can come into an area you’re calling from.

Western gray squirrel: Western gray squirrel hunting remains open with no bag limit in that part of the Rogue unit south of the Rogue River and S Fork Rogue River and north of Hwy 140. See page 63 of the 2019 Oregon Big Game Hunting Regulations for more information.

Coyotes are abundant in our area. Remember to ask for permission to hunt on private lands. Hunters can find coyotes around meadows and brush piles where mice and rabbits are found. Predator calls are very useful when used in conjunction to known prey base.  Remember to identify your target.

Wolves and coyotes can look alike. Wolves are protected by state and/or federal law and it is unlawful to shoot them. Coyote hunters need to take extra care to identify their target as wolves can look like coyotes, especially wolf pups in the mid-summer and fall. Please report any wolf sightings or wolf sign to ODFW using the online reporting system.

COLUMBIA BIG GAME HUNTING

Hunting and fire danger

Dry conditions and the associated fire danger can have a large impact on your hunting opportunity. It pays to check in advance to see if there are any access restrictions in the unit(s) you plan to hunt.

OPEN: COUGAR, COYOTE

HOOD RIVER, WASCO, SHERMAN COUNTIES (Hood, White River, Maupin, West Biggs Units)

Antlerless Elk (Maupin and West Biggs):  Oct. 12 - Nov. 30

Public access is limited to BLM lands in the Deschutes and John Day River Canyons. Also, The Woosley Tract of Lower Deschutes Wildlife Area can be accessed by boat from the Deschutes River. Elk hunting in these units is best on private lands but elk can also be found on public lands if hunters are willing to work for it.

Fall bear: Open Aug. 1- Nov. 30

Bear densities in White River and Hood units are high and early season hunting can be productive near fall berry crops.  So far this season, the Hood unit seems to be the hot spot for fall bear hunting, with several bears harvested thus far in the season.  Any accessible areas near the boundaries of orchards can also be productive areas to target bears.

Coyotes: Try calling for them from open fields, meadows, and pastures. The best areas to find them will be near farm grounds on the eastern boundary. Look for them in early morning or evening and pay close attention to wind direction.

Cougar: Most cougars are harvested by hunters targeting other species. Remember to purchase a cougar tag before heading out for other hunts. Cougars can be found in the same areas as deer and elk as they follow them through their migration routes. Also, try using predator calls to draw them in and be patient for them to make their appearance. The season is open all year, unless the zone quota is met in the area you are hunting.

White River Wildlife Area

Deer: Season is closed.

Elk: Rocky Mtn elk seasons are closed.    

Black Bear: Season is closed in the White River Wildlife area.  

Wolves on the White River Wildlife Area are protected by state and /or federal law. It is unlawful to shoot them. Hunters targeting coyotes need to take extra care in identifying their target. Coyotes can resemble wolves, especially wolf pups. Please report any sightings of wolves or wolf sign to ODFW using the online reporting system.

Cougar: Cougar season is open in the White River Wildlife Area. Try using predator calls to increase your odds of success. Here are 10 ways to be a better cougar hunter.  Check to make sure the zone you are hunting in hasn’t reached the harvest quota before you hunt.  Remember it is mandatory to check in your unfrozen cougar skull and hide with proof of sex attached to an ODFW office or designated collection site within 10 days of the kill by the person who harvested the animal. See page 62 in the big game hunting regulations or MyODFW.com for more information.

It is also mandatory to submit the reproductive tract of any female cougar taken (see page 59 in the big game hunting regulations).

Western gray squirrel:  Season is closed.

Coyotes: There are no seasons or bag limits on coyotes. Populations are good throughout the wildlife area. This time of year coyote fur is prime and it is a great time for using predator calls. Be aware that bobcats and cougars may respond to predator calls, and separate licensing/tags and season limitations exist for these species.

Test your identification skills with ODFW’s new Coyote and Gray Wolf ID Quiz.

Current road and weather conditions:  Travel is allowed only on roads that are designated by the green dot. Many of the roads are now closed for winter to protect the roads and wintering wildlife. Look for road information maps at entrances to the wildlife area. Very cold and snowy weather is upon us.  Many of the roads are icy so be prepared and drive carefully. Reminders:

• Display your required parking permit when visiting the wildlife area.
• Camping in the wildlife area is allowed only in designated camping areas.
• Campfires are allowed only in designated camping areas with an established fire ring.
• Be prepared for snowy conditions and below freezing temperatures.  
• Please pack out your trash.
• No ATVs allowed in the wildlife area.

12/4/19

CENTRAL BIG GAME HUNTING

Hunting and fire danger

Dry conditions and the associated fire danger can have a large impact on your hunting opportunity. It pays to check in advance to see if there are any access restrictions in the unit(s) you plan to hunt.

Wolves and coyotes can look alike

Most wolves in the state today are in northeast Oregon but a few have dispersed further west and south. Wolves are protected by state and/or federal law and it is unlawful to shoot them. Coyote hunters need to take extra care to identify their target as wolves can look like coyotes, especially wolf pups in the mid-summer and fall. Please report any wolf sightings or wolf sign to ODFW using the online reporting system.

OPEN: COUGAR, COYOTE

PRINEVILLE/OCHOCO WILDLIFE DISTRICT (Maury, Ochoco, Grizzly)

Cougar are present throughout the Maury, Ochoco, and Grizzly units. The Maury and Ochoco units are recommended because of their greater amounts of public lands and better accessibility. Cougars must be checked in at an ODFW office within 10 days of harvest. Please consult the synopsis for all required parts and be sure to call first to make an appointment.

Coyotes can offer an exciting hunting challenge. Both the Maury and Ochoco have sizeable areas of public lands that provide hunting opportunities. Hunters should use caution, be properly equipped and prepared for whatever the weather might bring.

DESCHUTES DISTRICT (Upper Deschutes, Paulina, North Wagontire, Northwest Fort Rock, Metolius)

Cougar can be found throughout the Deschutes District. Look for cougars wherever there are prey species. Predator calls are the most effective method of locating a cougar. There is a mandatory check in of all cougars. The unfrozen skull, hide, proof of sex and female reproductive tract must be submitted to an ODFW office during normal business hours and within 10 days of being taken. Check in is by appointment only so call ahead before showing up at the ODFW office.

Coyote: Good numbers of coyotes can be found throughout the Deschutes District. Calling coyotes with distress type calls has been effective for hunters. Calling in the early morning and late afternoon produces the best results. It is important to choose areas with abundant coyote sign and little human activity.

Please report any wolf sightings or wolf sign to ODFW using the online reporting system.

SOUTH CENTRAL BIG GAME HUNTING

Forest Service road closures could affect Interstate Unit hunters

The Forest Service reminds hunters of some road closures in the Fremont-Winema National Forest that could affect big game hunters who have a tag for the Interstate Unit. Consult this map for details.

Hunting and fire danger

Dry conditions and the associated fire danger can have a large impact on your hunting opportunity. It pays to check in advance to see if there are any access restrictions in the unit(s) you plan to hunt.

Wolves and coyotes can look alike

Most wolves in the state today are in northeast Oregon but a few have dispersed further west and south. Wolves are protected by state and/or federal law and it is unlawful to shoot them. Coyote hunters need to take extra care to identify their target as wolves can look like coyotes, especially wolf pups in the mid-summer and fall. Please report any wolf sightings or wolf sign to ODFW using the online reporting system.

Test your identification skills with ODFW’s new Coyote and Gray Wolf ID Quiz.

OPEN: COUGAR, COYOTE

KLAMATH COUNTY

Fall black bear: Season remains open through Nov. 30 for eastside units. Bears can be found throughout the county with best prospects in the Cascades or in the Interstate Units. Look for food sources, scat, or a good water source to increase chance of success. Remember to check-in any harvested bears at an ODFW office. Be sure to call ahead to schedule an appointment.

Cougar hunting is open. Populations are healthy and distributed throughout the district in any area with a big game prey base. A good hunting strategy is to check for tracks after snowfall events and then use calling to lure a cougar into range.

Don’t forget successful hunters must check-in cougars within 10 days after harvest; please bring cougar in thawed and with mouth propped open so that field staff can quickly process the animal and get you on your way. The reproductive tract is required for any female cougars taken.

Coyote hunting opportunities are available throughout the district. Be aware that bobcats and cougars may respond to predator calls, and separate licensing and open season limitations exist for these species. Please consult the annual Big Game hunting regulations for further information.

Ground squirrel hunting is best on sunny days. Best prospects are in pasture and hay fields. Be sure to ask permission before entering private land.

Test your identification skills with ODFW’s new Coyote and Gray Wolf ID Quiz.

LAKE COUNTY

Motorists are reminded that mule deer movements continue from transition to winter ranges. Mule deer rut (breeding season) has begun and bucks are in search of does and are distracted, motorists should be extra vigilant during this time. Mule deer will move along Hwy 31 between La Pine and Silver Lake, along the Bear Flat Road between Antelope Flat and Silver Lake, along Hwy 31 between Summer Lake and Paisley, and along Hwy 395 from Valley Falls to Lakeview. In addition, mule deer will cross Highway 97 from Bend to Klamath Falls. Motorist should slow down and watch for mule deer crossing highways particularly in the early morning and evening. Check out 7 things you can do to avoid vehicle/wildlife collisions.

Elk –The North Lake and youth antlerless elk hunts continue. Elk populations in the District are generally low when compared to other areas of the state, but stable at those levels. Elk hunting is expected to fair to good depending on weather conditions. Recent snow and winter conditions may move elk to lower elevations. Elk hunters should consider coming to hunt once weather conditions moderate.

Hunters should note that the Cabin Lake/Silver Lake winter range road closure will start Dec. 1 and will effect portions of the North Lake cow elk and the Silver Lake and E. Fort Rock Paulina youth antlerless elk hunts. Motor vehicles are not allowed on closed roads within the closure Dec. 1 – March 31. A copy of the map can be found at the following here.

Cougar hunting is open. Cougar populations are healthy throughout the District. Predator calls can be an effective cougar hunting method though bobcats and bears may respond to predator calls, and separate licensing and season limitations exist for these species. Hunters should be prepared for predators other than cougar to respond.

Hunters are reminded that hunter harvested cougars MUST be checked into an ODFW office, by appointment, within 10 days of harvest. Please prop mouth open at time of harvest and either wait to freeze or thaw the skull before your appointment. The reproductive tract is required for any female cougars taken.

Coyote populations are good and hunting is available throughout the district. Be aware that bobcats and cougars may respond to predator calls, and separate licensing and season limitations exist for these species. Hunters should be prepared for predators other than coyotes to respond. Coyote hunters need to take extra care to identify their target as wolves can look like coyotes. Test your identification skills with ODFW’s Coyote and Gray Wolf ID Quiz.

Please report any wolf sightings or wolf sign to ODFW using the online reporting system.

Summer Lake Wildlife Area

All big game hunting seasons on the wildlife area are closed at this time.

Please contact Summer Lake Wildlife Area at (541) 943-3152 or email martin.j.stlouis@state.or.us for additional information.

SE BIG GAME HUNTING

Forest Service road closures could affect Interstate Unit hunters

The Forest Service reminds hunters of some road closures in the Fremont-Winema National Forest that could affect big game hunters who have a tag for the Interstate Unit. Consult this map for details.

Hunting and fire danger

Dry conditions and the associated fire danger can have a large impact on your hunting opportunity. It pays to check in advance to see if there are any access restrictions in the unit(s) you plan to hunt.

Wolves and coyotes can look alike

Most wolves in the state today are in northeast Oregon but a few have dispersed further west and south. Wolves are protected by state and/or federal law and it is unlawful to shoot them. Coyote hunters need to take extra care to identify their target as wolves can look like coyotes, especially wolf pups in the mid-summer and fall. Please report any wolf sightings or wolf sign to ODFW using the online reporting system.

OPEN: COUGAR, COYOTE

HARNEY COUNTY (Silvies, Malheur River, Steens Mt, Juniper, portions of Beatys Butte, Wagontire, and Whitehorse)

Coyote populations are good throughout Harney County. Be aware that bobcats and cougars also may respond to predator calls, and there are separate licensing and season limitations for these species.

Cougar hunting is open year around. Populations are healthy and distributed throughout the district in any area with a big game prey base. Don’t forget successful hunters must check-in cougars no more than 10 days after harvest; please bring cougar in thawed and with mouth propped open so that field staff can quickly process the animal and get you on your way.

MALHEUR COUNTY (Whitehorse, Owyhee and Beulah Units)

Fall Bear season closed Nov. 30.

Controlled Eastern Oregon 2nd elk season is closed.

Cougar hunting is open. Populations are healthy and distributed throughout the district in any area with a big game prey base. Successful hunters must check-in cougars no more than 10 days after harvest; please bring cougar in thawed and with mouth propped open for easier tissue sampling, teeth collection and tagging.

Coyote hunting is available throughout the district. Reproduction this year appears to be good which should enhance calling opportunities. Be aware that bobcats and cougars may respond to predator calls, and separate licensing and season limitations exist for these species.

Ground squirrels are becoming more active on warmer days. Be sure to obtain permission when entering private lands.

NE BIG GAME HUNTING

Hunting and fire danger

Dry conditions and the associated fire danger can have a large impact on your hunting opportunity. It pays to check in advance to see if there are any access restrictions in the unit(s) you plan to hunt.

Wolves in Northeast Oregon

Wolves are protected by state law and it is unlawful to shoot them. Coyote hunters in northeastern Oregon need to take extra care to identify their target as wolves can look like coyotes, especially wolf pups in the mid-summer and fall. Please report any wolf sightings or wolf sign to La Grande office (541) 963-2138 or online with the Wolf Reporting Form.

Test your identification skills with ODFW’s new Coyote and Gray Wolf ID Quiz.

OPEN: COUGAR, COYOTE

BAKER DISTRICT (Sumpter, Keating, Pine Creek, Lookout Mt.)

Attention Lookout Mt. hunters

The Forsea Ranch Access Area will NOT be available for big game hunting this fall. The property is ending its participation in the Access & Habitat program and will not be available to hunters beginning July 31, 2019.

The controlled hunts affected are #164 (buck deer); #s 264A1, 264A2, 264X, 264Y (elk); #464 (pronghorn antelope); #s 564A1 and 564A2 (bighorn sheep).

Cougars can be found throughout Baker County but hunters should target areas with high concentrations of deer and elk. Setting up on a fresh kill or using distress calls can all be productive techniques. Hunters are required to check in the hide of any cougar taken, with skull and proof of sex attached.

Coyote numbers are good throughout the district. Try calling in early morning and late afternoon. Remember to ask for permission before hunting on private properties.

Test your identification skills with ODFW’s new Coyote and Gray Wolf ID Quiz.

GRANT DISTRICT (Murderers Creek, Northside, Desolation)

Hunter should look for deer around recent burns, fires less than 15 years old, recent timber harvest areas and wet meadows. Deer will select areas that have the best early serial plants species or areas with the best forage. There have been recent fires in Canyon Creek and Aldrich Mountain in the Murderers Creek Unit. The Monument Rock wilderness in the West Beulah Unit and the Indian Rock area in the Desolation Unit.

Elk will be widely scattered as green feed is abundant everywhere. This has been one of the wettest summers in recent years, which has created great forage for elk. However, elk will be scattered because they won’t be tied to limited food sources as much as years past. Elk populations are doing well. Hunters should look to get away from open roads. The best hunting will be about 2 miles from an open road.

Cougar hunting reopened Jan. 1. Cougar are well-distributed in our forested areas. Calling with distress calls or cougar vocalizations can be effective. However, locating a fresh, naturally made kill has the best chance of success. Successful hunters should remember that check-in of the hide with skull and proof of sex attached is mandatory; see the regulations for details.

Coyote numbers are good in most of the district. Coyotes may respond to distress calls. Try calling in the early morning and late evening.

Test your identification skills with ODFW’s new Coyote and Gray Wolf ID Quiz.

HEPPNER DISTRICT (Heppner, Fossil, East Biggs, southern Columbia Basin)

Cougar hunting is open. Cougar are well-distributed in our forested areas. Calling with distress calls or cougar vocalizations can be effective. However, locating a fresh, naturally made kill has the best chance of success. Remember a 2019 cougar tag and hunting license is needed to hunt as of Jan. 1.

The Coyote population is healthy with good numbers of coyotes available for those who wish to pursue them. Watch wind direction to help prevent giving away your location. Calling with game distress calls can be very successful.

Test your identification skills with ODFW’s new Coyote and Gray Wolf ID Quiz.

UMATILLA DISTRICT (Walla Walla, Mt. Emily, Ukiah, eastern portion of Heppner, northern Columbia Basin)

Elk population levels are doing well within Umatilla County. Throughout the county we have experienced a wet fall, which has led to a robust forage year at mid to upper elevations.  These conditions may spread elk distributions out across the landscape more than in years past.

Winter has shown itself early at upper elevations with cold temperatures and snowfall, but for the last 3-4 weeks most of the snow has melted with mild temperatures prevailing.  

Deer: Due to severe winter conditions last February and March, deer numbers have decreased throughout the Umatilla District. In addition, the white-tailed deer population is severely decreased from a late summer bout of hemorrhagic disease. Hunters with a late season deer tag will find more deer off the valley floor in higher elevations.

Cougar are well-distributed in forested areas of the Walla Walla, Mt. Emily, and Ukiah units. Hunters will have best success by finding a fresh naturally made kill and hunting near it, or by using predator calls. Some success has come from following tracks until the cougar is located.

Coyote are numerous throughout the County and hunters should have good success calling. Remember to ask permission before hunting on private lands.

Fall bear season closed Nov. 30.

Test your identification skills with ODFW’s new Coyote and Gray Wolf ID Quiz.

UNION COUNTY

Cougars are common in Union County. Focus on game rich areas with long ridgelines or saddles that cats typically travel. Setting up downwind of a deer or elk killed by a cougar can be productive. Nonresident hunters can include a cougar tag with others tags for only $14.50. All cougars taken must be checked in within 10 days of harvest; call for an appointment before check in.

Coyote numbers are high throughout the district. Try calling in early morning and late afternoon. Remember to ask for permission before hunting on private properties.

Test your identification skills with ODFW’s new Coyote and Gray Wolf ID Quiz.

Ladd Marsh Wildlife Area

All lands north and east of Foothill Road are open to hunting weekends, Wednesdays and all federal holidays. Please refer to Big Game and Game Bird regulations for season dates and additional regulations.

Hunting equipment is limited to short range (shotgun, archery or muzzleloader) equipment only. Rifles and handguns are prohibited at all times.

The Glass Hill portion of the wildlife area is open seven days a week April 1 through Jan. 31. Please refer to the ODFW big game and game bird regulations for season dates.

The wildlife Area is closed from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m. In addition there is no camping on the wildlife area. Violators will be asked to leave and or will be issued citations.

Please call the Ladd Marsh Wildlife Area with any questions 541 963 4954.

WALLOWA COUNTY (Wenaha, Sled Springs, Chesnimnus, Snake River, Minam, Imnaha)

Rocky Mountain Elk: Antlerless elk hunts continue through December. Elk at higher elevations are moving to mid- and low elevation ranges. Winter is here; expect snow and icy conditions. Snow levels and blowing/drifting snow may make some roads impassable.

Travel management areas and/or road closures are in effect in the Sled Springs, Wenaha and Snake River units. Hancock private lands in the Sled Springs and Wenaha units are open to public entry and camping. Contact Hancock Forest Management at 541-962-2184 for current information and/or restrictions.

Cougar: Populations are moderate throughout Wallowa County. Most lions are taken incidental to other hunting; however, calling with fawn bleat, or locating a cougar kill and waiting for a cat to return are often successful techniques.

Coyote: Good numbers of coyotes can be found throughout Wallowa County. Calling coyotes with rabbit distress type calls has been effective for hunters. It is important to choose areas with abundant coyote sign and little human activity.

Test your identification skills with ODFW’s new Coyote and Gray Wolf ID Quiz.

GAME BIRD HUNTING

NW GAME BIRD HUNTING

Forest grouse and mountain quail hunters: Turn in wings and tails

Look for collection barrels where you hunt. Data gathered from wings and tails helps ODFW biologists look at population productivity and set seasons. More information, including a map of barrel locations.

OPEN: EURASIAN COLLARED DOVES, FOREST GROUSE, CA AND MTN QUAIL, MOURNING DOVE, PHEASANT, CHUKAR, HUNGARIAN PARTRIDE, SNIPE AND DUCK

NORTH AND MID-COAST DISTRICTS

Duck season goes through Jan. 26, 2020. Even though some migratory ducks have shown up on the north coast, it seems the maximum number we typically see on north coast estuaries has yet to materialize.

Northwest Permit Goose reopened Nov. 23 and will continue through Jan. 16, 2020. There are definitely both local and migratory geese on the north coast, so hunters need to be aware of dusky Canada geese, which are protected from take during the season. See the 2019-20 Oregon Game Bird Regulations for details.

Forest grouse season on the north coast includes sooty (blue) and ruffed grouse. While both species are associated with conifer forests, sooty grouse occupy the higher elevations of the coast range, especially ridge tops, while ruffed grouse are most commonly seen at mid to lower elevations of forest habitats, including riparian areas. Due to the relatively warm and dry nesting season, we anticipate that hunting should be good this year for these birds.

Mountain quail season runs concurrently with the forest grouse season on the north coast, and hunting is likely to be very good due to dry conditions during the nesting season.  These birds are most commonly found in brushy clearcuts, especially those with a south-facing aspect.

California quail and pheasant season is open, but there are very few, if any, of these birds on the north coast.

Eurasian collared doves are non-native birds found in developed portions of the north coast. There is no closed season or bag limit for them, but hunters need to get permission to hunt them on private land. Although similar in markings and appearance to the native mourning dove, they are larger (similar to a rock dove) and with a more squared-off tail.

WILLAMETTE DISTRICT

Waterfowl (Zone 1) Oct. 12- Oct. 27 and Oct. 30- Jan. 26, 2020. Scaup Nov. 2- Jan. 26, 2020

Waterfowl season is underway if you have not updated your state waterfowl validation, HIP validation, and purchased your new federal waterfowl stamp be sure to do so before you go out hunting. If you are planning on hunting Sauvie Island Wildlife Area remember to apply for blind reservations to increase your odds of hunting your preferred blinds. See pages 43-46 of the 2019-20 Oregon Game Bird Regulations for the application deadlines, permit availability, and permit sales deadline for each hunt period.  

There is a chance for rain this weekend, which should help move some birds around. The lack of bad weather has created slow hunting conditions. There is a cold front forecasted to hit in northern Washington and Canada, which will hopefully push more birds south and bring some fresh birds to the area.

Be persistent, scout your hunting locations, and don’t being shy on the call will prove helpful in the early season. Most of the waterfowl in the area right now have been around for a while and are pretty stale. Changing up your blind locations and where you put out your spread can help you be more successful. Don’t be afraid to try new things and try putting out spreads that are a different size than everyone else’s, this might be the key to making your spread stand out to the ducks.

Willamette Valley Open Fields: The season has been slow for properties enrolled in the A&H open Fields program located throughout the Willamette Valley. Most fields were replanted late fall and minimal green-up has occurred to date. Low numbers of hunters with little to no success have been reported. Hunters looking to take advantage of these properties are better off waiting for some precipitation to enhance habitat favorable to waterfowl. An interactive map of these properties with information from where they are located can be found at www.oregonhuntingmap.com.

Forest grouse, California quail, and mountain quail Sept. 1- Jan. 31, 2020

Forest grouse - You can find denser populations of both sooty grouse and ruffed grouse in portions of the Santiam unit located in the Mt. Hood National Forest. You can also find forest grouse in the coastal range however, encounters may be less frequent. Look for grouse along the edges of timber patches during morning and evening times as well as around riparian areas. Remember that the daily bag limit is 3 of each species and possession limit is 9 of each species. Remember that wildlife laws state that the head or one fully feathered wing must be left attached to all game birds in the field or while in transit to the place of permanent residence of the possessor.

California and mountain quail - These brush loving birds are often found running between hiding and feeding areas in both brush land and riparian zones. Please remember that the daily bag limit is 10 birds and the possession limit is 30 birds singly or in aggregate when both California and mountain quail seasons are concurrent. Remember that wildlife laws state that the head or one fully feathered wing must be left attached to all game birds in the field or while in transit to the place of permanent residence of the possessor.

Wing and tail collection barrel locations

Fall turkey runs Oct. 15 – Dec. 31 in the general Western Oregon season. Hunters should refer to the 2019-2020 Oregon Game Bird Regulations on page 19 for specific hunt information. This hunt offers 4,000 tags on a first-come, first-served basis with a season bag limit of two turkeys. Local upland bird reproduction seemed good this year following good reproduction last year. Plenty of turkeys should be able this season.

Duck, merganser, and coot seasons will be Oct. 12 – Oct. 27, 2019 and Oct. 30, 2019 – Jan. 26 2020 in Zone 1. Hunters should refer to the 2019-2020 Oregon Game Bird Regulations on pages 20-21 for zone maps, bag, and possession limits.

Northwest Permit Zone Regular Season Goose dates are Oct. 19 – Oct. 27, Nov. 23 – Jan. 16, 2020, and Feb. 8 – Mar. 10, 2020. Hunters should refer to the 2019-2020 Oregon Game Bird Regulations on pages 20-23 for hunt specific information. Don’t forget to look into the Open Fields program for goose hunting access in addition to other areas open to hunting.

Sauvie Island Wildlife Area

Duck season opened Oct. 12. For reservation information, consult page 43 of the 2019-20 Oregon Game Bird Regulations.

Fern Ridge Wildlife Area 

Waterfowl

Dry conditions persist but recent storms have brought some new birds to the area. For the most up-to-date information on water levels, contact our office.

All Units (except East and West Coyote) are open for daily waterfowl hunting. Hunting ends at 1 p.m. in the Fisher Butte and Royal Amazon units and closed to public access at 2 p.m.

The reservation hunt (East and West Coyote units) began Nov. 16. For successful applicants, remember that you still must purchase the permit prior to your hunt date. Hunting statistics are available at MyODFW.com, enter “Fern Ridge Wildlife Area hunting statistics” into the search bar. For more details, consult the Oregon Game Bird Regulations, pages 33 and 46.

SW GAME BIRD HUNTING

Forest grouse and mountain quail hunters: Turn in wings and tails

Look for collection barrels where you hunt. Data gathered from wings and tails helps ODFW biologists look at population productivity and set seasons. More information, including a map of barrel locations.

OPEN: EURASIAN COLLARED DOVES, FOREST GROUSE, CA AND MTN QUAIL, MOURNING DOVE, PHEASANT CHUKAR AND HUNGARIAN PARTRIDE, SNIPE, DUCK

COOS COUNTY

Eurasian collared doves: These non-native doves are found in Coos County. While they are generally found near residential areas, they can be found in other locations. They tend to be most common in association with agricultural lands and other rural settings. There is no closed season or bag limit for them and they are, reportedly, good to eat. Hunters need to get permission to hunt them on private land. With a little pre-hunt scouting it is possible to find the birds in sufficient numbers to have a quality hunting experience.

Grouse and Quail: Grouse and quail populations have been experiencing some good survival of broods on the south coast for the past several years. As a result, bird hunting has been pretty good for those who pursue them. Grouse will be found where you find them this year. Due to recent rain and warm weather, green up has given them good food resources throughout their habitat. Quail will be more predictable as they will generally be found near clearcut edges, ridge tops and rocky outcroppings.  

Snipe: Snipe season opened Nov 2.  Presently these birds have not moved into Coos County in large numbers. This is not surprising as they tend to be late migrators in comparison to other water birds.

Waterfowl: Ducks and geese are beginning to move into the area with the changing weather. Presently most migratory ducks appear to be in the lower portions of local bays. They don’t seem to be spending much time above tidewater. This will likely change as rains inundate inland agricultural fields.

Most of the geese arriving on the south coast are moving to staging areas on agricultural lands near the Coos/Curry county line. However, resident geese are using agricultural lands throughout the county.

Coquille Valley Wildlife Area and Bandon Marsh National Wildlife Refuge are good places to check out for waterfowl hunting as both offer high quality tidal habitats for birds.  Other good early season bets include open-to-hunting areas in Coos Bay, New River and Winchester Bay.

DOUGLAS COUNTY

Eurasian collared-doves: These non-natives are expanding throughout Douglas County. These birds have no protections in Oregon, so there are no closed seasons and no limits to their harvest. Target Eurasian collared-doves around agricultural areas and forest openings where food sources are abundant. Be sure of your identification before you hunt these abundant invasive birds. Identify this species and its habitat

JACKSON, JOSEPHINE, CURRY COUNTIES

Reminder for all game bird hunters to update their upland game bird license for the new season after July 1. Log into your account and purchase your new license or go to your local vendor. If you have any problems contact an ODFW office for assistance.

Pheasant: The general pheasant season began on Oct. 5. The bag limit is two birds per day, for more information refer to page 16 of the 2019 Bird Regulations.

Grouse season remains open through January 2020. The daily bag limit is three birds of each species (blue and ruffed). Grouse surveys are being conducted now and numbers in SW Oregon appear to be slightly better than in recent years. Driving less used dirt roads in the late evening can be an effective method in finding grouse to harvest.

Quail season remains open through January 2020. The daily bag limit is 10 quail (in aggregate with both mountain and California quail). Quail numbers this year seem to be the same as in past years; driving old dirt roads in the late afternoon and evening is usually a good way to locate groups. For more information refer to the Oregon Game Bird Regulations.

Eurasian collared-doves: These non-native game birds that can be harvested year-round with no bag limit; however, a hunting license is required. They are found throughout Jackson and Josephine counties, and seem to be in especially high concentrations near residential zones.

Waterfowl: Waterfowl season is currently open for ducks and geese in southwestern Oregon. The season has had a slow start with the dry sunny weather we have been experiencing. The upcoming stormy weather over the holiday weekend should result in better waterfowl harvest than we have seen so far this year.

Currently the Denman Wildlife Area has a few select fields flooded and as soon as rain arrives, we will flood the remainder of the grain crops for hunter use. Remember that the Hall Tract is usually only open Saturdays, Sundays, and Wednesdays. For more information on waterfowl hunting see page 20 of the Oregon Game Bird regulations.

COLUMBIA GAME BIRD HUNTING

Forest grouse and mountain quail hunters: Turn in wings and tails

Look for collection barrels where you hunt. Data gathered from wings and tails helps ODFW biologists look at population productivity and set seasons. More information, including a map of barrel locations.

OPEN: EURASIAN COLLARED DOVES, FOREST GROUSE, MOURNING DOVE, PHEASANT, CHUKAR, HUNGARIAN PARTRIDGE, CALIFORNIA QUAIL, AND TURKEY, DUCK, MERGANSER, GOOSE

WATERFOWL

Duck and Merganser:  Season runs Oct. 12- 27 and Oct. 30- Jan. 26, 2020. Waterfowl hunting along the Columbia River is great, with a large variety of species available for harvest. Early season hunting can be very sporadic, depending on the weather.  Areas along the Columbia River can generally be hunted as long as you stay below high water mark and are outside of city limits. If you have specific questions about access, call The Dalles field office at 541 296 4628.  

Scaup:  Season runs Nov. 2- Jan. 26.  The bag limit for Scaup is 3 per day. Scaup will start to show up along the Columbia by the thousands as the season progresses.

Goose:  Season runs Oct. 12- 27 and Nov. 4- Jan. 26, 2020. Geese can be hunted in many areas along the Columbia River. There are also lots of private land hunting opportunities in the area if you are willing to get out and do some scouting and ask for private land permission. Areas along the Columbia River can generally be hunted as long as you stay below high water mark and are outside of city limits. If you have specific questions about access, call The Dalles field office at 541 296 4628.  

UPLAND BIRDS

White River controlled turkey hunt: This hunt is closed.

General central Oregon fall turkey: Oct. 5 - Nov. 30, Dec. 1-31(only open on private lands by permission for December)

The Maupin and Biggs units are now included in this hunt. Turkeys can be found throughout the units but are mostly limited to riparian areas. Limited numbers can be found in the Deschutes and John Day River Canyons and other drainages feeding into those canyons.

Pheasant: Oct. 5- Dec. 31

Most pheasants are on private lands. Make sure you get permission to hunt these areas.  Also check out properties enrolled in The Upland Cooperative Access Program in Sherman and Wasco counties. Call 541 296 4628 to get information about this program.

Chukar, gray partridge and California quail: Oct. 5- Jan. 31

Chukars can be found throughout the John Day and Deschutes River Canyons on both public and private lands. Gray partridge can be found amongst grassland habitats and some opportunity exists to hunt them on UCAP properties in Sherman and Wasco counties.

California quail can be found amongst heavy cover, mostly in agricultural areas. Call The Dalles field office to get information about the UCAP program

Forest grouse and mountain quail:  Sept. 1- Jan. 31, 2020

Sooty (blue) grouse can be found in forested portions of the White River and Hood units.  They seem to be more heavily concentrated in the Hood unit and in the western portion of the White River unit. Targeting breaks of major ridges is a good strategy for finding sooty grouse.

Ruffed grouse seem to be more difficult to find in these units but are generally associated with riparian areas.

Mountain quail can also be found throughout these units associated with heavy cover and riparian areas. They also seem to be more common on private timberlands in the Hood Unit.  Make sure you have a permit to access Weyerhaeuser timberlands and check fire restrictions prior to access.

White River Wildlife Area

Fall turkey: White River Controlled Turkey season is closed.  

Duck and Goose:  WRWA is located in hunting ZONE 1 for ducks and the EAST zone for geese. Duck and goose are both open until Jan. 26, 2020. WRWA is located in Zone B for shooting hours, see page 10 in the Oregon Game bird regulations. The number of birds in the wildlife area has been low so far but with the recent snowy weather more birds should arrive soon.  Unfortunately many of the ponds have little water and are freezing over with ice creating limited areas to hunt in the WRWA.  Ducks and geese can be found throughout the wildlife area on ponds and agricultural fields.

See page 20 in the 2019-2020 Oregon Game Bird regulations for season dates and bag limits. Don’t forget to validate your Migratory Harvest Information Program (HIP) and purchase your migratory waterfowl stamp from your local post office or hunting store before hunting waterfowl.    

Current road and weather conditions:  Travel is allowed only on roads that are designated by the green dot. Many of the roads are now closed for winter to protect the roads and wintering wildlife. Look for road information maps at entrances to the wildlife area. Very cold and snowy weather is upon us.  Many of the roads are icy so be prepared and drive carefully. Reminders:

• Display your required parking permit when visiting the wildlife area.
• Camping in the wildlife area is allowed only in designated camping areas.
• Campfires are allowed only in designated camping areas with an established fire ring.
• Be prepared for snowy conditions and below freezing temperatures.  
• Please pack out your trash.
• No ATVs allowed in the wildlife area.

12/4/19

CENTRAL GAME BIRD HUNTING

Forest grouse and mountain quail hunters: Turn in wings and tails

Look for collection barrels where you hunt. Data gathered from wings and tails helps ODFW biologists look at population productivity and set seasons. More information, including a map of barrel locations.

OPEN: EURASIAN COLLARED DOVES, FOREST GROUSE, MOURNING DOVE, PHEASANT, CHUKAR, HUNGARIAN PARTRIDGE, CALIFORNIA QUAIL, TURKEY, DUCK, MERGANSER AND COOT

CROOK AND JEFFERSON COUNTIES

California quail is open through January 2020. These birds prefer lower elevation brushy habitat, particularly near agricultural and riparian areas. Although most of these habitat types are on private lands, some public opportunity exists on BLM lands and at the Prineville Reservoir Wildlife Area. Area.

Eurasian collared doves are unprotected and can be taken year-round.

Duck season is open through Dec. 1 and then reopens Dec. 4 – Jan. 19, 2020. Mallards are the most common duck species in the area and hunters sill find some limited public land opportunities on BLM property along the Crooked River or Prineville Reservoir.

DESCHUTES COUNTY

Biologists believe most upland species nested successfully this year. Last winter‘s milder conditions and favorable spring conditions contributed to a slight increase in upland bird populations. Some areas got heavy spring rains that impacted nesting success; however, most birds successfully re-nested.

California quail populations are healthy with most found on private lands. Remember to ask for permission before entering private lands. The season remains open through January 2020.

Good forest grouse habitat is limited in the district but populations are stable, albeit at low numbers in the Cascade portion of the District.

Mountain quail remains closed in the county.

Eurasian collared doves are unprotected and can be taken year-round.

Duck season is open through Dec. 1 and then reopens Dec. 4 – Jan. 19, 2020, and goose is open through Jan. 26, 2020. Hunting for local birds should be average to above average prior to freeze up.

SOUTH CENTRAL GAME BIRD HUNTING

Forest grouse and mountain quail hunters: Turn in wings and tails

Look for collection barrels where you hunt. Data gathered from wings and tails helps ODFW biologists look at population productivity and set seasons. More information, including a map of barrel locations.

OPEN: EURASIAN COLLARED DOVES, FOREST GROUSE, MOURNING DOVE, PHEASANT, CHUKAR, HUNGARIAN PARTRIDGE, CALIFORNIA QUAIL, TURKEY, DUCK, MERGANSER, COOT, CANADA GOOSE, WHITE AND WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE (Klamath County).

KLAMATH COUNTY

Mountain quail: Season will be open through January 2020. Best prospects for mountain quail are in the lower elevations of the Keno Unit in brushy areas.  Access is good on Green Diamond Resource lands or BLM. 

California quail:  Best areas are in the foothills adjacent to ag lands. Season remains open through Jan. 31.

Waterfowl: Duck season is open and will continue with some short breaks through Jan. 19, 2020, and goose season extends to Jan. 26 for Canada geese and March 10 for white-fronted. Hunters need to be familiar with the regulations in the area before attempting to harvest waterfowl species.

Hunting for ducks and geese has been good.  Productive areas include Lower Klamath and Upper Klamath Refuges, Agency Lake, Sprague River, and Lost River. Hunters must purchase a federal access permit for hunting on Lower Klamath Refuge.

Forest grouse: Season continues through Jan. 31. Best prospects are in the Cascade Mountains for both blue and ruffed grouse, although there are fair numbers of blue grouse in forested habitat in eastern Klamath County. Hunters are asked to provide a wing and tail from each grouse harvested and drop them off at the Klamath District Office on Miller Island Road.

Eurasian collared-doves: There are lots of opportunities to hunt these non-native game birds. Season is open year-round with no bag limit restrictions. A hunting license is required.

Klamath Wildlife Area
Updated Nov. 5, 2019

Waterfowl season is open please see gamebird regulations for season dates and special regulations. Please remember Zone 2 goose, duck, merganser, snipe and coot is closed Dec. 2 and 3.

Miller Island Unit:

Hunters must obtain a self-serve permit available at the check station on Miller Island Road if hunting on the Miller Island Unit. The “B” half of the permit must be filled out completely and returned when done hunting for the day.

• The Miller Island Unit is located 6 miles south and west of Klamath Falls. Miller Island Unit is closed to all access from 10 p.m. until 4 a.m.
• Discharging firearms is prohibited except during authorized game bird hunting seasons or by special permit.
• Oct. 1 – Dec. 31: Open to public use Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays. Open to game bird hunting Oct. 5 and 6 and every following Monday, Wednesday and Saturday during authorized game bird seasons. Upland game bird shooting hours begin at 10 a.m. All other days are closed to all entry, except public rds., parking areas, boat ramp, designated birding trail and designated dog training area.
• Overnight camping is not allowed on the Miller Island Unit.

Gorr Island Unit:

Gorr Island is located four miles south of the Miller Island Unit in the Klamath River, accessible only by boat. Gorr Island is open daily with no permit required during authorized seasons.

Shoalwater Bay Unit and Sesti Tgawaals Unit:

Shoalwater Bay and Sesti Tgawaals are both located on the west side of Upper Klamath Lake approximately 10 miles to the north and west of Klamath Falls. Shoalwater Bay and Sesti Tgawaals Units are both open for hunting daily with no permit required during authorized seasons.

Hunting Information Miller Island Unit:

Attention all waterfowl hunters: The Miller Island Wetland Enhancement Project was completed at the end of September. All wetland units now have good water conditions except for the Dragon ponds which will continue to be dry all year unless we get a large rain/snow event. More information and maps of the wildlife area.

Waterfowl hunting has been extremely poor the last couple of weeks and with frigid temperatures expected this week I would expect duck hunting on Miller Island will continue to be poor for the rest of the season.

Pheasant hunting has also slowed with the last pheasant release being on Nov. 15.

Weekly and summarized harvest statistics for the Miller Island Unit can be found at Hunting Statistics.

A Wildlife Area Parking Permit is now required to park on the Wildlife Area. Cost is $10 daily or $30 annually. Free with purchase of hunting license; just be sure to put it on your dashboard. Buy online or at an ODFW office that sells licenses or at a license sales agent.

If you have any questions, please contact Klamath Wildlife Area at (541) 883-5732.

LAKE COUNTY

Eurasian collared doves are expanding throughout Lake County. These birds have no protections in Oregon, so there are no closed seasons or limits to their harvest. A hunting license is required on public land. Focus around agricultural areas and forest openings where food sources are abundant. Be sure of your identification before you hunt these birds which are larger and lighter than mourning doves with a distinctive band around the back of the neck. Identify this species and its habitat.

Blue and ruffed grouse season continues until Jan. 31, 2020. Daily bag limit is 3 birds of each species with a possession limit of 9 birds of each species. The best areas for blue grouse is along ridge tops in more open forest habitats such as Winter Rim and Hager Mountain. While there are very few ruffed grouse in Lake County they are generally found along riparian areas.

Chukar and Hungarian partridge season continues until Jan. 31, 2020. Daily bag limit is 8 with a possession limit of 24 birds. Chukar reproduction was down this year but the overall population should provide fair to good hunting. The best areas for chukars are along desert rims such as Diablo, Coglan, Abert and Coleman rims. Hart Mountain Antelope Refuge is open on the west slope of the refuge for chukar only. While there are very few Hungarian partridge in Lake County they are generally found in open rolling grasslands.

California quail season continues until January 31, 2020. Daily bag limit is 10 with a possession limit of 30. California quail reproduction was excellent in the Lake County and should provide good to excellent hunting. Hunters should focus around the edge of agricultural and open areas where food sources are abundant with patches of trees or tall shrubs that provide roosting and escape cover. Hunters are reminded to ask permission to hunt private lands.

There is no mountain quail season in Lake County. There are very few mountain quail in Lake County, however mountain quail were released and monitored from 2014-2016 on Winter Rim. Therefore, hunters may encounter Mountain quail while hunting California quail or forest grouse so be sure of your identification before you hunt.

Waterfowl season in Zone 2 opened Oct. 5 and will continue with a short break through Jan 19, 2020. Significant variations exist in season dates and bag limits for various species of ducks and geese. Hunters need to be familiar with the regulations in the area before attempting to harvest waterfowl species. Fall migrating waterfowl have decreased as most species have moved south to wintering grounds. Duck species that can usually be found in lower numbers at this time include: mallard, northern pintail, northern shoveler, American wigeon, gadwall, canvasback, American green-winged teal, cinnamon teal, common goldeneye, bufflehead and ruddy ducks.

White-fronted (speckled-belly) and Canada geese numbers have decreased as bird move south to winter areas. Hunters are reminded only one white-fronted goose can be harvest in Lake County. Look for smaller flocks of wintering geese in alfalfa fields throughout Lake County and hunters can seek out permission to hunt these private lands.

Hunters are reminded that after the weekend; goose, duck, American coot and Wilson’s snipe seasons will be closed on Monday, Dec. 2 and 3 to adjust for hunting framework days.  Duck, coot and snipe seasons will reopen on Wednesday, Dec. 4, but goose seasons will remain closed until Dec. 16 when it will reopen for Canada geese only!  Snow and white-fronted geese will remain closed until Jan. 24, 2020.

REMINDER: “Breasting” birds out and discarding the rest of the carcass before heading home is illegal. The head or fully feathered wing must be left attached to all game birds in the field or while in transit to the place of permanent residence of the processor.

Summer Lake Wildlife Area

Migratory game bird (ducks, geese, American coots and Wilson’s snipe) and upland gamebird hunting seasons continue when the season for ducks, American coots and Wilson’s snipe reopen on Wednesday, Dec. 4.

Goose seasons will remain closed until Monday, Dec. 16 when the season for Canada geese will reopen. Snow and white-fronted goose seasons will remain closed until Jan. 24, 2020.

Hunting conditions were somewhat favorable during the past week and throughout the weekend, especially for hunters willing to expend time and effort hunting over decoys. Pass shooting from dikes was very slow. The weather conditions during the eighth week of season were harsh. A major storm system that brought several inches of snow followed by cold temperatures that brought frozen conditions to over 95 percent of the Area’s wetlands. Ducks were concentrated and persistent hunters saw good success. Hunter participation was up as was total harvest and success was up compared to the previous week.

Habitat conditions were poor across most of the wildlife area as over 95 percent of the Area’s wetlands were ice-covered by the weekend. As a result, bird numbers dropped considerably. Overall hunter success (2.56 birds per hunter) was up 44.5 percent from last year, when the 2 day waterfowl and goose closure occurred.