Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife recreation report 1-26

[Fishing Report]

2012 Winter Steelhead Guide now online.
The guide offers the novice steelhead angler an overview of where and when to fish for winter steelhead season. For the more experienced angler, the guide also includes updates on access and regulations, and lists other changes that could affect fishing.

2013 Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations Public Process
The 2012 Public Process for developing the 2013 Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations is now underway. Click here to find out about how the process works and how you can propose a new fishing regulation or modify a current one.

Send us your fishing report
We’d love to hear about your recent fishing experience. Send us your own fishing report through ODFW Fishing Reports―the information will be forwarded to the local biologist who may use it to update various ODFW resources such as the Weekly Recreation Report.

NORTH COAST LAKES

Trout stocking is scheduled to resume the first week of March.

A few surplus summer steelhead adults have been released in Cape Meares Lake and Town Lake. Surplus winter steelhead adults were released in Lorens Pond, Vernonia Pond and Lost Lake, and Coffenbury Lake.

MID COAST LAKES

Stocking of rainbow trout will start up in February in many mid coast water bodies.

Fishing for warm water species is slow in most coastal lakes during the winter months. Largemouth bass, perch, bluegill and brown bullhead are the most common warm water fish. The Florence area offers the most opportunity along the mid coast such as Siltcoos, Tahkenitch, Woahink, Sutton, and Mercer lakes.
steelhead trout

Lukus Dykstra with the steelhead he caught on the Alsea river
-Photo by Colin Walsh-

ALSEA RIVER: steelhead

Winter steelhead fishing is fair to good. Anglers can find fish from the lower river up to the Alsea Hatchery. Anglers should focus up river during higher flows and on the mid to lower river during low clear conditions. A variety of tactics can be productive such as bait and bobber, drifting jigs or pulling plugs. Casting spoons and spinners is also productive near riffles.

KILCHIS RIVER: steelhead

The river was high and muddy over the weekend, with more rain in the forecast. When the river drops into shape, steelhead fishing should be good, with fish throughout the system.

LOWER COLUMBIA TRIBUTARIES: steelhead

Winter steelhead are available in Big Creek, Gnat Creek, and the NF Klaskanine River. These streams should clear first after the last storm. Expect the number of hatchery fish to be tapering off quickly.

NECANICUM RIVER: steelhead

The river was high and muddy over the weekend. More rain will likely keep the river high through mid-week at least. Steelhead fishing should be fair to good when the water recedes, with the number of fresh hatchery fish dropping off and more wild showing in the catch. Boaters should use extreme caution and beware of new woody debris in the river channel.

NEHALEM RIVER AND NF NEHALEM: steelhead

Winter steelhead angling in the North Fork was poor due to high water last weekend. Fishing will improve with better water conditions (call the hatchery recording at 503-368-5670 for the latest conditions). The number of hatchery fish is dropping off, but some fresh fish will still be available through the month. More wild fish will begin to show in the catch. The main Nehalem is high. Plunking may produce some fish, but fishing will be slow for a while.

Anglers who catch a steelhead or salmon with numbered tag(s) are encouraged to report catch information via the internet at http://www.dfw.state.or.us/RR/northw...ag_returns.asp or by calling ODFW at 503-842-2741 and asking for Derek Wiley. All live tagged fish that are not legal to retain or are voluntarily not kept should be released quickly and unharmed with tags intact.
Fishing
Steelhead fishing in the Little Nestucca
- Photo by Kathy Munsel-

NESTUCCA RIVER: steelhead

Winter steelhead fishing was good before the latest high water. The river is likely to be out of shape for several days, but could drop enough by late in the week. Three Rivers should be fishable first. Fish will be spread out through the system.

SALMON RIVER: steelhead

Wild winter steelhead will continue to pulse into the river over the next few months. Look to fish during sustained flows or after a good rise in the river level. Fish will likely be spread out in the mainstem and can offer fair to good catch-and-release fishing.

SILETZ RIVER: steelhead

Winter steelhead fishing is fair. Fish can be found throughout the mainstem from head of tide up into the gorge. Steady pulses of fish are expected as the season continues into March. Bobber and jig, plunking or swinging lures are effective tactics during the right conditions. Be prepared to try various techniques. Look to fish the upper river during higher flows.

SIUSLAW RIVER: steelhead

The winter steelhead run is producing fair to good fishing from Whittaker Creek down to head of tide and in mid to lower Lake Creek. Anglers should focus efforts lower in the system during low clear conditions and upper higher when rivers levels rise quickly. Plunking can be a great tactic during higher murky flows.

TILLAMOOK BAY: sturgeon

Angling for sturgeon is fair, but could improve with recent muddy water. Move around often until you get bites. Sand shrimp is generally the best bait.

TRASK RIVER: steelhead

Fishing for steelhead was put on hold with the recent high water. Fishing should be good when the water drops, with fish spread out in all open areas. Fish high in the system until the water drops.

Anglers who catch a steelhead or salmon with numbered tag(s) are encouraged to report catch information via the internet at http://www.dfw.state.or.us/RR/northw...ag_returns.asp or by calling ODFW at 503-842-2741 and asking for Derek Wiley. All live tagged fish that are not legal to retain or are voluntarily not kept should be released quickly and unharmed with tags intact.

WILSON RIVER: steelhead

The river was blown out over the weekend, and may remain high this week with more rain forecasted. Good numbers of winter steelhead are in the system. The upper river will be the first to clear, and should provide the best opportunity until the river drops. The South Fork is open for one mile up from the mouth, and may be worth trying while the water is high.

YAQUINA RIVER: steelhead
Winter steelhead fishing is fair in the Big Elk system. Fish can be found in much of the Big Elk. Fish the upper river section during higher flows. Try various tactics to match the river conditions.

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HUNTING
cougar
Cougar
-Oregon Fish and Wildlife-

OPEN: COUGAR, FOREST GROUSE, QUAIL, DUCK

Hunters are reminded to get their 2012 hunting licenses (if they haven’t purchased it yet) before hunting any of the species listed below or other wildlife.

Use the Oregon Hunting Map to see where to hunt.

COUGAR are most effectively taken by using predator calls. However, cougar densities are relatively low on the north coast. Successful hunters, remember you must check in cougar (hide and skull) at an ODFW office within 10 days of harvest and bring them in unfrozen. It’s also a good idea to prop their mouths open with a stick after harvest for easier tissue sampling, teeth collection and tagging. See regulations for details.

Hunting for FOREST GROUSE and MOUNTAIN QUAIL will be slow this winter. The persistent cold/wet spring and early summer of 2011 limited brood production of these birds, which typically make up a sizeable portion of the harvest. Blue or sooty grouse are usually found at higher elevations (over 2000 ft.) in the coast range, such as ridge tops. Ruffed grouse are generally found at low to mid elevations, and are most commonly seen along creek and river bottoms. Mountain quail are usually associated with brushy clearcuts, especially those on south or west-facing slopes. The season for these birds in western Oregon closes after January 31. Hunters who take grouse are encouraged to turn in a wing and tail from their harvested birds and return the sample to an ODFW office. If you need grouse collection bags, please contact the nearest ODFW district or regional office. SEASONS CLOSE JAN. 31.

DUCK season continues until January 29 in Zone 1, which includes the north coast. A lot of migrants have come in to the north coast throughout the season, and along with the local birds, should produce very good duck hunting prospects. Currently, in Tillamook Bay American wigeon, mallards and pintails are the dominant species. Duck hunting should be best with the onset of storms, when ducks are forced off of open water and begin to seek sheltered waters in shoreline areas.

The Northwest Permit GOOSE Season in Tillamook County (open Jan. 21-March 10) has been good for harvest of geese, including a number of white-fronted geese. This season, the goose hunting closure area near Pacific City has decreased, so more hunting area is available in that area. In general, good numbers of Canada and cackling geese are on the north coast. Highest concentrations of birds seem to be in the Nestucca Bay and lower Columbia River estuaries, with viable hunting populations in the Tillamook and Nehalem Bay areas as well. Please check the 2011-12 Oregon Game Bird regulations for details.

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VIEWING

GRAY WHALES continue to migrate south along the coast from the Bering Sea to the much warmer climes of Baja! The main viewing points for the north coast (official and otherwise) include Tillamook Head (Ecola State Park), Silver Point (south of Cannon Beach), Cape Falcon and Neah-Kah-Nie Mtn. (Oswald West State Park), Cape Meares (Cape Meares State Park), Cape Lookout (Cape Lookout State Park) and Cape Kiwanda (Cape Kiwanda State Park). A good pair of binoculars is very helpful in finding the whales. Also, keep weather in mind as stormy weather makes viewing them very difficult. 1/3/12.

CLATSOP COUNTY
elk
A bull elk looks over his herd at the Jewell Meadows Wildlife Area
- Photo by Rick Swart, ODFW-

Jewell Meadows Wildlife Area

Elk viewing has been excellent at Jewell Meadows Wildlife Area. Elk have been visible throughout the day on the Fishhawk Tract. Best viewing times are from 9 a.m. to about noon each day. Visitors should start near the main viewing area and along Hwy 202 to observe larger herds of females and young. The older bulls are usually found near the west viewing area. The Beneke Tract is also a good bet if the elk are not out along Hwy 202. Elk are currently being fed a supplemental diet of alfalfa hay on the wildlife area. Staff tries to feed close to the viewing areas on weekends to enhance viewing opportunities. Reservations for the winter elk feeding tours have been completely filled for the three-month season. Other wildlife to watch for include: songbirds near the viewing area feeders, coyotes in the fields, and bald eagles perched high in trees or soaring along Fishhawk and Beneke creeks. 12/6/11.

TILLAMOOK COUNTY

Storm activity during the fall and winter brings a number of pelagic (offshore) species of birds closer to the coast. Storm watchers on coastal headlands may see fulmars, shearwaters, petrels and the occasional albatross during the winter months. Some of the smaller species require a good field guide for identification, but the albatrosses, with their 7-foot wingspan, are unmistakable. The Laysan albatross has white underparts, while the black-footed is more uniformly dark. These species breed on isolated islands and atolls in the mid-Pacific.
Greater White-fronted Goose

Greater White-fronted Goose
- Photo by Greg Gillson-

WHITE FRONTED, CANADA AND CACKLING GEESE are present at the Nestucca Bay National Wildlife Refuge, located near Pacific City. The geese can easily be seen just off of Highway 101, east of town and generally only binoculars are needed. Some geese are marked with colorful neck collars, which correspond to their race, subspecies or distinct population segment.

GREAT EGRETS have been seen in good numbers in Tillamook County. They are large white birds, slightly smaller than a great blue heron. They can be found during the day in dairy fields around Tillamook or in Tillamook Bay or Netarts Bay, although lately the birds have been seen as far south as Cloverdale. A favorite roosting site is along Hathaway Slough, south of Bay City, right along Hwy 101, where sometimes up to about 80 birds can be seen there at dawn or dusk.

Wintering WATERFOWL numbers have increased in recent months on both Netarts and Tillamook Bays. Look for mainly diving and sea ducks in Netarts Bay while Tillamook Bay has an abundance of dabbling or puddle ducks. However, the lower part of Tillamook Bay (around the 3 Graces rocks) is a place to see the occasional Harlequin duck. 1/24/12.

[Fishing Report]

2012 Winter Steelhead Guide now online
The guide offers the novice steelhead angler an overview of where and when to fish for winter steelhead season. For the more experienced angler, the guide also includes updates on access and regulations, and lists other changes that could affect fishing.

2013 Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations Public Process
The 2012 Public Process for developing the 2013 Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations is now underway. Click here to find out about how the process works and how you can propose a new fishing regulation or modify a current one.

A meeting to learn more about the 2013 angling regulation proposal process will be held in the Eugene-Springfield area Wed. Feb. 15 at Lane Community College. The meeting will be held in Bldg 17, Rm 308 and will run from 7-9pm. For additional information, contact the Springfield ODFW office at 541-726-3515.

Send us your fishing report
We’d love to hear about your recent fishing experience. Send us your own fishing report through ODFW Fishing Reports -- the information will be forwarded to the local biologist who may use it to update various ODFW resources such as the Weekly Recreation Report.

STOCKING SCHEDULE

The schedules are posted at our website. Note the scheduled stocking dates for each pond are set for the Monday of that respective week and may not coincide with the actual stocking date that could occur on any given week day.

North Willamette stocking schedule
South Willamette stocking schedule

ALTON BAKER CANOE CANAL: trout

The Alton Baker Canoe Canal is open all year. Stocking will resume again in February. The Canoe Canal is located in downtown Eugene behind Autzen Stadium. A 4-acre pond at the midpoint of the canal is a good spot but it can be fished all along its 2-mile length from Day Island Road in Eugene to Aspen Street in Springfield. Summer steelhead are occasionally caught in this system and anglers are reminded they will need a combined angling tag to legally harvest a steelhead. It is legal to fish with two rods in the Alton Baker Canoe Canal, provided the Two-Rod Validation has been purchased.

BLUE RIVER RESERVOIR: trout, warmwater species

Blue River Reservoir is located east of Eugene near the town of Blue River, north of Highway 126 and is open to year-round fishing.

CLACKAMAS RIVER: winter steelhead

The Clackamas was beginning to recede somewhat on Monday but heavy rains in the forecast for most of the week, along with rising snow levels, will likely lead to near flood levels again by Friday. Prior to the recent flood event there were winter steelhead caught in most areas of the river, and once the water is back in shape anglers should expect some good fishing opportunities.

The gauge in Estacada has been out of service for several days due to the flooding so hydrological data was not available early this week. The river is expected to rise to just below flood by Friday.
Brook Trout
Brook Trout
-U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service-

CLEAR LAKE: trout

Clear Lake is accessed from Highway 126 approximately 70 miles east of Springfield. Brook trout are the most abundant fish during the winter and there is no limit on the size or number of brook trout taken. Cabins and row boats are available for rent from Clear Lake Resort (http://www.co.linn.or.us/parks/parks/clearlake.html).

COAST FORK WILLAMETTE RIVER: trout

The Coast Fork of the Willamette River is open to catch-and-release fishing for trout through April 27. Anglers must use only artificial flies and lures.

COTTAGE GROVE POND: trout, warmwater species

To access Cottage Grove Pond, head east approximately 1.5 miles from Cottage Grove on Row River Road. Follow the asphalt path behind the weigh station to the pond. Trout stocking will resume in February.

COTTAGE GROVE RESERVOIR: trout, warmwater species

Cottage Grove Reservoir was last stocked for the season in mid-October. Travel south of Cottage Grove on London Road to Cottage Grove Reservoir Road.

DETROIT RESERVOIR: trout, kokanee

Located 50 miles east of Salem, this large lake (approx. 3,000 acres at full pool) receives over 100,000 trout throughout the year. The reservoir was stocked on Oct. 13 with approximately 6,000 10-12 inch rainbow trout. The water level is currently only 59 feet below full pool (as of January 22). Only Mongold boat ramp is currently usable. Angling is poor at the moment due to high turbidity levels from the recent heavy rainfall. Check with local outfitters in the town of Detroit to find out more.

DEXTER RESERVOIR: trout

Dexter Reservoir is adjacent to Highway 58 near Lowell.

DORENA RESERVOIR: trout, warmwater

Dorena Reservoir is east of Cottage Grove on Row River Road.

DORMANS POND: trout, black crappie, brown bullhead, bluegill, largemouth bass

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

EAGLE CREEK: winter steelhead

The creek was coming back into fishable shape on Monday, with decent color but fairly high flows. Heavy rains in the forecast will likely lead to poor conditions for a couple of days but the creek rises and falls quickly, so it should be fishable by the weekend. A few steelhead had been taken by the persistent, knowledgeable anglers prior to the high water, and when the creek level begins dropping could be the best chance this winter to get into some fish.

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

EAST FREEWAY LAKE: trout, bass, bluegill, crappie

This pond features some good size bass and crappie. Fishing is poor at the moment. due to high turbidity and flood conditions from the recent heavy rainfall. A boat ramp is available. To get there take the State Police exit in Albany and follow the frontage road south (3 Lakes Road) for several miles.

ESTACADA LAKE: trout

Stocked the week of Sept. 5 with 1,800 legal-sized rainbow trout. This is a 150-acre lake on the Clackamas River upstream of River Mill Dam at Estacada.

FALL CREEK above Fall Creek Reservoir: trout

Fall Creek and Fall Creek Reservoir are north of Lowell and east of Unity. Fall Creek is open to catch-and-release fishing for trout through April 27, 2012.

FALL CREEK RESERVOIR: trout, warmwater

Fall Creek Reservoir, northeast of Lowell, will be stocked with hatchery rainbow trout in April.

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

This 9,000 acre lake just 12 miles west of Eugene is the Willamette Basins largest water body. It has four boat ramps and there is good bank angling along the dam and at the shoreline parks. This lake is mostly shallow with a band of deep water from the original channel of the Long Tom River. The reservoir produces crappie over 12 inches and bass angling has been very good in recent years. Best time of year for crappie is in spring after the water temperature reaches the mid-50s, but fish can still be found in deeper water year round. July and August are peak months for largemouth bass. Fish the shoreline along the southern part of the reservoir, especially the sloughs and inlets where there is underwater structure. The reservoir is currently 6 feet below full.

FOSTER RESERVOIR: trout, bass, perch, catfish

This scenic 1,200 acre reservoir on the South Santiam River is located just 30 minutes from Interstate 5. There is good bank access at several rest stops and campgrounds, and two boat ramps. Currently the reservoir is only 17 feet below full pool and has a high level of turbidity due to the recent heavy rainfall. From I-5 take US 20 east from Albany to the town of Sweet Home. The reservoir is 3 miles past the town on the left.

HUDDLESTON POND – trout

Stocked last week with 75 rainbow trout brood trout weighing an average of 8 pounds each. From Hwy 18, take Willamina City Center Exit. Turn left on Main St. Follow Main St. to NE E St. and turn right. Proceed to NE Yamhill St. and turn left. Follow Yamhill St. to pond.

JUNCTION CITY POND: trout, crappie

Stocked the second week of January with 100 brood trout ranging in size from 5 to 15 pounds. Casting spinners and plunking with PowerBait can be effective strategies for these fish. Junction City pond is located about 2 miles south of Junction City on 99W on the west side of the highway. There is excellent access around the entire 8-acre pond.

LEABURG LAKE: trout

Leaburg Lake is closed to angling until April 28, 2012.

MCKENZIE RIVER below Leaburg Lake: trout, salmon, steelhead

Open for catch and release angling with artificial flies and lures from Hayden Bridge to Leaburg Dam January 1 through April 27. Although high flows can change angling effectiveness dramatically, anglers can find receptive wild fish during low flow periods of the winter.

MCKENZIE RIVER above Leaburg Lake: trout, steelhead

The McKenzie River above Leaburg Lake is closed to fishing until April 28, 2012.

MIDDLE FORK WILLAMETTE RIVER above Hills Creek Reservoir: trout

The Middle Fork Willamette River above Hills Creek Reservoir is closed to fishing until April 28, 2012.

MOLALLA RIVER: steelhead

The Molalla was flooding over the weekend and will likely be running high and muddy for several more days. Once the water settles down there’s a good likelihood that winters can be found in the lower river now that over 1200 fish have passed at Willamette Falls, but anglers need to keep in mind the Molalla is a catch-and-release steelhead fishery if you hook into one.
rainbow trout on a stringer
Rainbow Trout on a stringer
- Photo by Bob Swingle -

MT HOOD POND: trout

Stocked the week of Oct. 3 with 2,000 legal-sized rainbow trout and 200 larger trout.

This is a 5-acre trout pond on the campus of Mt. Hood Community College in Gresham. Fishing is restricted to youths age 17 and under or holders of a Disabled Angler permit from April 1-Aug. 31.

NORTH AND SOUTH SANTIAM: steelhead, trout

The flood waters observed last week are still significantly affecting the river with current flows recorded at nearly 9,700 cfs on the North Santiam at Mehama (down from over 29,000 cfs last week). Visibility remains very poor due to high turbidity from the recent heavy rainfall. South Santiam flows have dropped some since last week and are currently around 11,400 cfs at Waterloo (still quite high). Both of these levels are expected to vary up and down over the next week as more predicted storms move into the area. Once conditions improve, anglers can target winter steelhead that may have moved into the system from the Willamette during the high water event. There are probably a few summer steelhead available as well. The current Willamette Falls count stands at 1,255 winter steelhead as of Jan. 18. Bobber and jigs are the preferred method but spoons and egg clusters might also work well when conditions improve for catching these fish.

River levels best for fishing are below 3,000 cfs at the Mehama gauge. Check for current conditions at http://waterdata.usgs.gov.

The section between Shelburn and Green’s Bridge remains hazardous for boaters because of downed trees and multiple side channels. Better bets are the floats below Green’s Bridge and above Stayton when conditions improve.

SALMON CREEK: trout

Salmon Creek is open to catch-and-release fishing for trout through April 27th, 2012, using flies and lures.

SALT CREEK: trout

Salt Creek is open to catch-and-release fishing for trout through April 27, 2012, using flies and lures. Salt Creek is a tributary to the Middle Fork Willamette River east of Oakridge.

SANDY RIVER: winter steelhead

The Sandy River looked like all the rivers in the area over the weekend, high and muddy with plenty of debris coming down. These conditions will probably be in place for a few more days until the heavy rains decrease.

The catch success on winters was improving prior to the flooding, and once the water comes down there should be steelhead in much of the Sandy from Brightwood down to Troutdale. Although the Sandy River winter steelhead are a later arriving stock with the implementation of the broodstock program, a few early winters have been landed from the lower river on up to the mouth of the Salmon River. There is good bank access along the river at Dabney, Oxbow, Dodge, Cedar Creek, Marmot and in Brightwood.

Monday hydrological data shows the Sandy at 7,040 cfs with a gauge height of 12.04 ft. and the water temperature pushing 40°.

NOTE: An error on page 54 of the 2012 Sport Fishing Regulations booklet incorrectly states the Sandy River above the mouth of the Salmon River is open the entire year for the harvest of both adipose fin-clipped and non adipose fin-clipped steelhead.

The correct regulation should limit the season to the retention adipose fin-clipped steelhead and non adipose fin-clipped steelhead from July 1 to Aug. 31. The harvest of wild winter steelhead is prohibited on all rivers in the Willamette Zone.

SHERIDAN POND: trout

Stocked last week with 75 rainbow trout brood trout weighing an average of 8 pounds each. To get to Sheridan Pond from Hwy 18, take exit 33 to Balston Rd turn right and then a left to the pond.

SMALL FRY LAKE: trout

Stocked the week of Sept. 5 with 200 legal-sized rainbow trout. This lake is located next to the Clackamas River 7 miles south of Estacada off of Hwy 224. Angling restricted to youths ages 17 and under.

SMITH RESERVOIR: trout

Smith Reservoir is north of Trail Bridge Reservoir and is accessed by turning off Hwy 126 at Trail Bridge Reservoir and following FS Road 730 north to Smith Dam.

ST. LOUIS PONDS: trout, bluegill, channel catfish, largemouth bass, sunfish, crappie

Stocked last week with 75 brood rainbow trout weighing an average of 8 pounds each. These fish were released in Pond #6. The main gate to the ponds closed Oct. 1 but fishing is still allowed for those who wish to hike in. The main gate reopens on March 1 allowing vehicle access to the ponds and ADA fishing platforms.

St. Louis Ponds is a 54-acre complex of seven ponds owned and managed by ODFW. In addition to stocked trout, the ponds contain several species of warmwater fish, including largemouth bass, catfish, bluegill, crappie and sunfish. The ponds are located 13 miles north of Salem and west of Interstate 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

This 4-acre pond is located 2 miles above the upper end of Foster Reservoir. It was stocked in late June with 1,000 legal size rainbow trout. It 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 a boat ramp access to the Middle Fork arm of Foster Reservoir. To get there from I5, 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: trout

Stocked the second week of January with 100 brood trout ranging in size from 5 to 15 pounds. As a reminder, brooders are considered trout so zone regulations apply: five trout daily may be kept and only one over 20 inches. Timber Linn is a 11-acre lake located at Albany City park at the east edge of Albany.

TRAIL BRIDGE RESERVOIR: trout

Only adipose fin-clipped trout may be harvested from Trail Bridge Reservoir. Flies and lures only may be used. Trail Bridge Reservoir is adjacent to Hwy 126 and is approximately 60 miles east of Springfield.

WALLING POND: trout, crappie, bass

Stocked the second week of January with 50 brood trout ranging in size from 5 to 15 pounds. As a reminder, brooders are considered trout so zone regulations apply: five trout daily may be kept and only one over 20 inches. The pond is located within the Salem city limits west of I-5. Take Turner Road off Mission Street. It was stocked the week of Dec. 12 with 400 legal and 50 larger size rainbow trout. Some of the brood trout stocked in late November may also be available. As a reminder, only one trout over 20 inches may be kept per day.

WALTER WIRTH LAKE: trout, crappie, bass

Stocked the second week of January with 150 brood trout ranging in size from 5 to 15 pounds. As a reminder, brooders are considered trout so zone regulations apply: five trout daily may be kept and only one over 20 inches. This wheelchair accessible lake is located just east of Salem within Cascade Gateway Park, west of I-5 at Hwy. 22. Take Airport Rd. or Turner Rd. to reach the lake. It was stocked the week of Dec. 12 with 1,300 legal and 100 larger size rainbow trout.

WAVERLY POND: trout, bluegill, catfish

This 8-acre pond in downtown Albany was stocked on Nov. 10 with 500 legal and 25 larger size rainbow trout. It was stocked in late November with 50 very large brood trout weighing 5-10 lbs. and again stocked the second week of January, 2012 with 50 more large brood trout. Please be aware, only one fish over 20 inches may be kept. From I-5 take exit 234 west towards Albany. Pond is a quarter mile on the right.

WEST SALISH POND: panfish, trout

The Salish Ponds Wetlands Park has been closed by the City of Fairview as an extensive renovation project gets underway. ODFW will likely not be stocking West Salish Pond again until late September of 2012.
Coho Salmon
Coho Salmon
-Photo by Derek Wiley, ODFW-

WILLAMETTE RIVER: winter steelhead

Due to the flooding water conditions winter steelhead passage counts have slowed to low single digits over the past week or so, with plenty of mud and debris coming downstream. These high flows are expected to continue for several more days while the rain keeps falling and the freezing levels rise. Coho passage counts have come to a close for the season with Dec. 31 being the final count day. Through Dec. 31 the total passage count of adult coho ended up at 3,393 while the jack count totaled 1,969. Winter steelhead passage has reached 1,253 through Jan. 19.

The first spot that anglers will typically intercept winter steelhead is along Meldrum Bar, Dahl Park by the old bulkhead area, or just off the mouth of the Clackamas River. The winters will hug the bank through that area, seeking out the cleaner water of the Clackamas and with the high flows this will surely be the case in the coming days. Anglers are reminded to be cautious when fishing the Willamette after flood events; large amounts of debris have been sent downstream and boaters in particular should be wary of objects in the water.

Sturgeon retention on the Willamette River is now closed. Sturgeon anglers can still participate in the catch-and-release sturgeon fishery. Retention of sturgeon is allowed above Hwy 20 bridge in Albany all year. The Willamette will reopen to sturgeon retention on Feb. 17-18 and Feb. 24-25, with a harvest guideline of 1,768 to 2,022 fish.

Bank anglers should check out the new fishing dock between the Oregon City Arch Bridge and West Linn Paper Company on the west side of the river below Willamette Falls. The new structure provides 350 feet of waterfront access.

Hydro readings at Willamette Falls on Jan. 23 show very high flows at 107,000 cfs, visibility poor at less than 1.0 ft., and the water temperature near 43°.

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HUNTING
Cougar

Cougar in a Tree
- Photo by David Bronson-

OPEN: CONTROLLED ELK , COUGAR, FOREST GROUSE, MOUNTAIN QUAIL, CALIFORNIA QUAIL, PHEASANT, DUCK AND MERGANSER- ZONE 1 (SEE REGULATIONS), NW GENERAL GOOSE ZONE (SEE REGULATIONS), NW Permit Goose (Closed until February 4th), SNIPe, COOT.

Upland birds season close Jan. 31. Duck closes Jan. 29. many goose seasons close jan. 29.

new license needed to hunt as of jan. 1, 2012.

Many private timberlands use the following link to provide information regarding the access policy for their private lands. Hunters need to have permission to hunt or make sure hunting is allowed before accessing private lands:
www.oregon.gov/ODF/FIRE/corporate_closure.shtml

Hunter orange required for youth
Don’t forget: hunters age 17 and under must wear a fluorescent orange upper garment OR hat when hunting upland game birds (except turkey) and game mammals (deer, elk, bear, cougar, pronghorn, goat, sheep, and western gray squirrel) with a firearm.

BE PREPARED
Hunters are reminded to prepare for cold temperatures: dress appropriately and keep survival equipment such as food, water, sleeping bags, fire-starting material with you and in your vehicle during the winter months. Let someone know where you will be and when you expect to return just in case your vehicle becomes stuck.

Use the Oregon Hunting Map to see where to hunt.

Controlled ELK seasons are open in a few select areas for those hunters that drew a tag. Check the 2011 Big Game Regulations for details. These hunts occur primarily on private lands. Hunters are reminded that they must obtain permission from the landowner prior to hunting on private lands. Hunters may want to target forage areas, such as pastures, during the early morning and late afternoon hours. Remember - 2012 hunting license needed as of Jan. 1.

COUGAR season is open. Cougars are challenging to hunt due to their secretive nature, penchant for traveling great distances, and characteristic low population density, but can bring large rewards for successful hunters. Some hunters prefer to wait for snow cover to track and stalk cougars, while others have had luck calling cougars to them with predator calls that mimic a deer fawn or elk calf. The key to successful calling is to get within hearing range of a cougar, which will require that hunters be familiar with the local landscape characteristics, be aware of deer and elk patterns in the area, and understand cougar habits. Hunting with a partner is recommended for those hunters attempting to call cougars, since these animals can be difficult to see and hear as they approach. Calling for at least an hour from each calling location is important. Using a tree stand or sitting back-to-back is a good technique to cover all potential entry points. Remember 2012 tag and hunting license needed as of Jan. 1.

Successful cougar hunters will need to check-in any cougar taken at an ODFW office within 10 days of the kill. Hunters are reminded that biologists located in field offices may be out in the field handling other issues so call ahead to make arrangements to have your cougar checked-in. The hide and skull must be unfrozen and the skull and proof of sex must be attached to the hide. Hunters are required to submit the reproductive tract of any female cougar taken. Please review the 2012 Big Game Hunting Regulations before your hunting trip to ensure that you are familiar with all of the requirements.

GAME BIRD (forest grouse and quail) hunters will need to pick their days carefully since most gamebirds will be less active during the cold and stormy winter weather. Look for a rare sunny day or one with little or no rain for the best success. ODFW biologists can learn a lot about bird populations from the collection of wings and tails from harvested grouse and mountain quail Review the information provided on page 42 of the 2011-2012 Oregon Game Bird Regulations for more details about how to submit samples. Season closes Jan. 31.

DUCK season is now open in Zone 1. Please review the 2011-2012 Oregon Game Bird Regulations for more information. Heavy rains forecasted for this week will likely disperse ducks into sheet water covered fields. Hunters will need to scout for new concentrations of ducks to have the best success. Season closes Jan. 19.

For the novice, ODFW suggests the reference, "A Beginner's Guide to Waterfowl Hunting" – a guide to the Sauvie Island Wildlife Area, which is packed with information about license requirements, seasons, access, how to hunt and maps.
Canada Goose

Canada Geese
- Photo by Dave Budeau -

CANADA GOOSE are numerous in the area and hunters should expect good success during Period 3 of the Northwest Goose Permit Zone (February 4 – March 10, 2012). The Northwest Oregon Permit Goose season protects dusky Canada goose populations while allowing harvest of more numerous subspecies. The department is asking hunters to refrain from purposely shooting any dusky Canada goose. Hunters should carefully read the 2011-2012 Oregon Game Bird Regulations for more information on opening and closing dates, bag limits and possession limits. Goose hunting in the NW Oregon General Zone remains open. Hunters who scouted fields with actively feeding geese will experience the best success. See oregonopenfields.com for some new hunting opportunities on private land in the Willamette Valley. See regulations for season dates, general NW goose zone closes Jan. 29.

SAUVIE ISLAND WATERFOWL HUNTING – Following the Christmas break, duck hunting slowed a bit for the last week of 2011. During the last two shoot days, success on the Eastside units remained the same as last week at 2.6 birds per hunter, while the Westside units declined to 1.5 birds per hunter.
For the season to date, 6,951 Sauvie Island waterfowl hunters have harvested a total of 16,516 ducks, for an average harvest of 2.4 birds per hunter.

NEW: Hunters get a free Sauvie Island parking permit with their purchase of an annual hunting license. Display on car dash. The parking permit is also required at EE Wilson Wildlife Area near Corvallis. More information

Back to the top

VIEWING

Around the Valley

The Mid-Winter Waterfowl Survey was completed last week. Overall number of birds counted during this year’s survey (13,679) was more than twice as many as last year (5,866), with geese making-up the majority of the difference. The total number of ducks, nearly 3,000, was similar to last year’s total. However, the total number of dabbler species rose slightly from 2,596 in 2011 to 2,993 this year, while total diver species dropped from 916 to 268 in this year’s survey. Local weather conditions may have played a factor in the number and composition of waterfowl species observed: Gorge winds were very strong during the survey with a wind-chill dropping at or below freezing. Some smaller and shallower water bodies were frozen over, and water levels were unseasonable low. 1/24/12.
Red-tailed Hawk
Red-tailed Hawk
- Photo by Kathy Munsel, ODFW-

Winter is a good time to see wintering raptors in the Willamette Valley. Raptors, which include hawks, eagles, falcons and harriers, are easily recognized by their talons and distinctive hooked beaks. Seeing raptors can be as easy as driving through farmland or even down I-5.

Large concentrations of Canada geese can be seen in grass fields ponds and parks throughout the Willamette Valley. Although they look very similar, there are actually 7 different subspecies of Canada geese that winter in the valley. The smallest subspecies, the Cackling Canada goose, is darkly colored and only half again bigger than a duck. The Western Canada goose is very light colored and is about twice as big as the Cackler. There are more geese wintering in the Valley now than at any other time in recorded history. Although most people enjoy the sights and sounds of these abundant birds, under certain conditions geese can do a lot of crop damage. Farmers are concerned about the growing goose populations and the increasing damage problems.

Severe storms sometimes create good viewing opportunities for unusual birds that get pushed out of their normal range. If severe arctic weather pushes south, watch for snowy owls and gyrfalcons in fields near the Eugene Airport, Finley National Wildlife Refuge near Corvallis or at Baskett Slough Wildlife Refuge west of Salem. Wintering bald eagles are currently being viewed throughout the Willamette Valley. Some of the better viewing areas occur within several miles of the Coburg hills where they sometimes concentrate for night roosting. These birds have become a relatively common sight along the Willamette River, area streams, reservoirs, Fern Ridge Wildlife Area and Ankeny National Wildlife Refuge. They are commonly seen in grass seed fields and sheep pastures in Linn County where they scavenge dead sheep. 1/17/12

Corvallis Area

Chip Ross Park

This is 125 acres of forested hilltop, mainly in oak and conifers, which adjoins the southeast corner of McDonald State Forest. The oak trees with mistletoe in the canopy should be checked for bluebirds during the winter. Rare sightings include ruffed grouse, an immature spotted owl and a red-naped sapsucker which is rare west of the Cascades. Other birds that can be seen include sharp-shinned hawk, hairy and pileated woodpecker, olive-sided flycatcher, brown creeper and wrentit. Drive west on Lester Avenue off NW Highland Drive, where you will find ample parking space at the park boundary. A superb view of the city is to the south.

Visit the Audubon Society of Corvallis Web site for parking information and an area map.

EE Wilson Wildlife Area

Many wintering waterfowl are taking advantage of the full ponds at EE Wilson Wildlife area. The close of duck season on Jan. 27 should improve viewing conditions. During the recent Audubon Christmas bird count, volunteers discovered several unique birds at the EE Wilson Wildlife Area including a palm warbler and an American tree sparrow.

Find directions to EE Wilson Wildlife Area.
Barn Owl
Barn Owl
-Photo by Kathy Munsel-

Bald Hill Park

This 284-acre park lies west of the Benton County Fairgrounds. It is home to sharp-shinned and cooper’s hawks that hunt as well as nest in this area. Barn owls have roosted in the sturdy old barn and could nest in the large oaks. Great horned owls and smaller owls are often seen. This is also a good spot for acorn woodpeckers and red-breasted sapsuckers. The willow flycatcher, whose numbers may be declining, has been observed in the riparian areas. The white oak savannas attract white-breasted nuthatches as well as western bluebirds, which can be seen near mistletoe berries in the treetops during winter.

Visit the Audubon Society of Corvallis Web site for parking information and an area map.

Eugene Area

Delta Ponds

Many different types of waterfowl and raptors currently use the area. With the higher water and earlier dusk, now is a good time to see beaver and muskrat. Best viewing time is around 4:30 p.m. When viewing wildlife, please remember to be respectful and try not to disturb the animals’ natural behaviors. Sometimes, the best way to view animals is from inside your vehicle as to not frighten the birds/animals away. For more information on Delta Ponds on the Oregon Solutions Web site.

Golden Gardens Park
river otters
River Otters
-Dmitry Azovtev,
Flickr - Creative Commons-

River otters may be found in ponds and canals around Eugene. Last week two river otters were observed in the pond at Golden Gardens Park in northwest Eugene.

Salem Area

Walling Pond

Walling Pond in Salem is a fishing pond created by Walling Sand and Gravel near 16th St. and McGilchrist St. It is west of Interstate 5 off the U.S. 22 exit. In addition to good fishing, visitors to the pond can enjoy seeing a good selection of sparrows, swallows and wintering waterfowl. Walling Pond is scheduled to be stocked with rainbow trout the week of Jan. 14.

Sauvie Island

Sauvie Island Wildlife Area

Birders and wildlife enthusiasts enjoy seeing many mallards and merganser as well as numerous other types of birds in the waterways and along the roadside on the wildlife area. Waterfowl viewing should improve after when duck hunting season ends after Jan. 27.

Now that goose season is over on the wildlife area, great flocks of cacklers and snow geese are easily viewable. Viewing areas currently open to the public are Coon Point, the Eastside Viewing Platform and Rentenaar Road.

A parking permit is required for the Sauvie Island Wildlife Area and can be purchased at ODFW Point of Sale vendors.

Find directions to Sauvie Island Wildlife Area on the ODFW Web site.

Springfield Area
Canada Goose

Canada Geese
- Photo by Dave Budeau -

Fern Ridge Wildlife Area

Flights of geese can be observed at Fern Ridge Lake arriving every evening through the winter migration season—about the end of February. A good vantage point at sunset is the Royal Avenue parking lot. Royal Avenue and the trail to the Fisher Butte viewing blind remain open all day every day year round. Visitors in January are advised there will be construction activity at the west end of Royal Avenue while the Corps of Engineers constructs a nesting island for Caspian terns. The island is located 1/2 mile south of Gibson Island. Hikers are cautioned to be on the lookout for rock truck traffic along Royal Avenue. Find directions to Fern Ridge Wildlife Area on ODFW’s Web site.

Willamette Valley

Watch for Bald Eagles

This is a great time to see bald eagles. Several eagles are active in the lower Columbia River near Sauvie Island and Deer Island. Bald eagles are often found near water with large numbers of waterfowl or fish.

In the South Willamette Watershed, bald eagles can be seen in the Harrisburg, Halsey, and Brownsville areas. Eagles are generally seen sitting in grass fields or in trees. Viewers driving on rural roads can often spot eagles in these areas. Bring along good optics as viewing often occurs from a long distance. 1/17/12

[Fishing Report]

Weekend fishing opportunities:

Ice conditions are variable throughout the zone. Winter anglers should always use extreme caution before venturing out onto ice.
A few bright winter steelhead have been caught on the Hood River.
Now is a great time to fish the lower Deschutes River near Maupin, where anglers can find trout, steelhead and solitude.

2013 Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations Public Process
The 2012 Public Process for developing the 2013 Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations is now underway. Click here to find out about how the process works and how you can propose a new fishing regulation or modify a current one.

If your favorite fishing spot is no longer listed
It’s probably because that river, lake or reservoir is closed for the season, inaccessible due to snow and bad roads, or offers limited fishing opportunities during the winter months. These water bodies will re-appear in the Recreation Report when they re-open next spring, or when access and/or opportunity improves.

Send us your fishing report
We’d love to hear about your recent fishing experience. Send us your own fishing report through ODFW Fishing Reports -- the information will be forwarded to the local biologist who may use it to update various ODFW resources such as the Weekly Recreation Report.

ANTELOPE FLAT RESERVOIR: trout

Access to Antelope Flat has been good, but that may change with snow in the forecast for this week. Ice is thick enough for ice fishing and nice trout averaging 15-inches long are being caught. Anglers venturing out onto ice are cautioned to be very careful and to follow safety guidelines.

BEND PINE NURSERY POND: trout

The pond is open to fishing year-round but may be iced over in winter.

BIG LAVA LAKE: rainbow trout

Closed to fishing Nov. 1.

BIKINI POND: rainbow trout

Bikini Pond has been stocked for the winter and anglers are reporting good fishing. There is great access for kids or anglers that need easy access.

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

Fishing season ended Oct. 31, and will reopen in the spring.

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

The lake is accessible at the resort only.
Redband Trout
Redband Trout
-Oregon Dept. of Fish & Wildlife -

CROOKED RIVER BELOW BOWMAN DAM: redband trout and mountain whitefish

Anglers are reminded that angling methods are restricted to artificial flies and lures as of Oct. 31. The fishing has been excellent with fish over 20-inches long being reported. A sample of redband trout and mountain whitefish are tagged with a numbered floy tag protruding from the back. Anglers who catch a trout or whitefish with a floy tag are encouraged to release the fish after recording the tag number, fish length and location caught. Anglers can send the information to ODFW at (541) 447-5111 ext. 24 or timothy.k.porter@state.or.us.

CULTUS LAKE: rainbow trout, lake trout

No recent reports.

DAVIS LAKE: redband trout, largemouth bass

Please note this is a fly-fishing only lake. Please check your synopsis for the regulations for this water body.

DESCHUTES RIVER: steelhead, redband trout

Mouth to the Pelton Regulating Dam: steelhead, redband trout

Anglers are reminded that the Deschutes River closed to steelhead fishing on Dec. 31, from the Northern Boundary of the Warm Springs Indian Reservation upstream to Pelton Dam. Steelhead angling remains open from the mouth of the Deschutes River upstream to the Northern Boundary of the Warm Springs Indian Reservation.

If you’re looking for some solitude, now is a great time to fish for trout and steelhead on the lower Deschutes. Anglers should try tactics with slow presentations such as nymphs or a jig and bobber. Lots of steelhead remain in the lower river around Maupin.

Anglers, who catch a tagged hatchery steelhead with an orange anchor tag, are encouraged to report catch information to ODFW at 541-296-4628 or via the internet at http://www.dfw.state.or.us/fish/The_...ag_returns.asp. Anglers catching a tagged wild fish should release it immediately without recording any information.

Anglers can check the trap the seasons catch at Sherars Falls as an indicator of fish movement in the Deschutes at: http://www.dfw.state.or.us/fish/fish...alls/index.asp.

Lake Billy Chinook to Bend: rainbow trout, brown trout

Flows have increased significantly and anglers are reminded to exercise caution when wading. No recent reports but there should be good fishing for rainbow and brown trout. Rainbow trout average 10 to 16-inches, while brown trout up to 26-inches are available. Anglers will find better access downstream of Lower Bridge.

EAST LAKE: rainbow trout, brown trout, Atlantic salmon, kokanee

Closed to fishing Nov. 1.

FALL RIVER: rainbow trout

There is some dry fly action, but anglers are reporting better luck using nymphs. Anglers are encouraged to note the special regulations in the 2011 Sport Fishing Regulations; the angling season below the Fall River falls ended on Sept. 30.

HAYSTACK RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, brown trout, kokanee

Access to open water is limited due to ice.
Steelhead
Steelhead
-Oregon Fish and Wildlife-

HOOD RIVER: winter steelhead, summer steelhead

A few bright winter steelhead are being caught on the lower Hood River. Recent high water should have brought some new fish into the river. The number of steelhead in the river will continue to increase as the winter progresses.

With the removal of Powerdale Dam, ODFW has adopted regulations expanding salmon and steelhead fishing on the main stem river from the mouth to the confluence with the East Fork, and the West Fork from the confluence with the main stem to the angling deadline 200 feet downstream of Punchbowl Falls. There has been some confusion about the upstream angling deadline in the main stem river; for clarification, the entire Hood River main stem is open from the confluence with the West Fork downstream to the Columbia.

HOSMER LAKE: Atlantic salmon, brook trout

The lake is iced over and fishing on Hosmer is restricted to fly fishing with barbless hooks.

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

Anglers are encouraged to note the special regulations for the Metolius Arm of Billy Chinook Reservoir; angling is closed in the Metolius arm from Oct. 31-March 1.

LITTLE LAVA LAKE: rainbow trout, brook trout

Angling season ended Oct. 31, and will reopen in the spring.

METOLIUS RIVER: redband trout, bull trout

Trout fishing has been good. Insect hatches should offer lots of opportunities for good dry fly fishing.

The river upstream from the Allingham Bridge closes to fishing after Oct. 31.

NORTH TWIN: rainbow trout

No access by road and is likely iced-over.

OCHOCO CREEK UPSTREAM TO OCHOCO DAM: rainbow trout

Angling is restricted to artificial flies and lures only; two trout per day and 8-inch minimum length.

OCHOCO RESERVOIR: rainbow trout

Access to open water is extremely limited due to ice.

ODELL LAKE: kokanee, lake trout, rainbow trout

Closed to fishing Nov. 1.
rainbow trout on a stringer
Rainbow Trout on a stringer
- Photo by Bob Swingle, ODFW-

PAULINA LAKE: brown trout, rainbow trout, kokanee

Closed to fishing Nov. 1.

PINE HOLLOW RESERVOIR: rainbow trout

Pine Hollow was stocked in early October and November. Ice is likely forming around Pine Hollow. Access is likely limited.

PRINEVILLE RESERVOIR: rainbow trout and largemouth bass

Anglers have reported catching larger trout than in recent years. Anglers should consult the 2011 Sport Fishing Regulations for maximum length requirements and bag limits for both largemouth and smallmouth bass.

PRINEVILLE YOUTH FISHING POND: rainbow trout and largemouth bass

The pond is frozen over and ice fishing is not recommended.

ROCK CREEK RESERVOIR: rainbow trout

Thin ice is on the reservoir.

SHEVLIN YOUTH FISHING POND: rainbow trout

The pond is open to fishing year-round but may be iced over in winter. Shevlin Pond is open to children 17 years old and younger with a bag limit of two fish.

SOUTH TWIN LAKE: Rainbow trout

Fishing season ended Oct. 31, and will reopen in the spring.

SUTTLE LAKE: brown trout, kokanee

No recent reports.

TAYLOR LAKE: rainbow trout

Taylor was stocked in early October and November. The lake is currently free of ice.

WALTON LAKE: rainbow trout

Due to a timber sale in the area, the road leading to Walton Lake and the sno-park is under a temporary closure Monday through Friday, but is open on the weekends. For more information, contact the Forest Service at (541) 416-6500.

No recent reports. The lake is covered with ice and should be thick enough for ice fishing, but be sure to check the thickness of the ice before venturing out. Anglers are cautioned to be very careful and to follow safety guidelines.

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

Fishing season ended Oct. 31, and will reopen in the spring.

Back to the top

HUNTING

OPEN: WATERFOWL (see regulations), CHUKAR, COUGAR, and MOUNTAIN QUAIL

QUAIL AND CHUKAR CLOSE JAN. 31. REMAINING WATERFOWL SEASONS CLOSE JAN. 29.

Columbia Basin Bird Hunting Guide– a new publication with maps and other information on the region’s 250K acres to bird hunt

New opportunities to hunt private land in Columbia Basin
See the Open Fields website for details. Most are on by permission basis on private lands. New properties are added frequently so keep an eye on the website.

Wolf coyote identificationWolves and coyotes can look alike

Most wolves in the state today are in northeast Oregon but a few have dispersed further west and south. Wolves are protected by state and/or federal law and it is unlawful to shoot them. Coyote hunters need to take extra care to identify their target as wolves can look like coyotes, especially wolf pups in the mid-summer and fall. ODFW appreciates hunters’ assistance to establish wolves’ presence in Oregon; please report any wolf sightings or wolf sign to ODFW using the online reporting system.

Hunter orange required for youth

Don’t forget: hunters age 17 and under must wear a fluorescent orange upper garment OR hat when hunting upland game birds (except turkey) and game mammals (deer, elk, bear, cougar, pronghorn, goat, sheep, western gray squirrel) with a firearm.

PRINEVILLE/OCHOCO WILDLIFE DISTRICT

COUGAR are present throughout the Maury, Ochoco, and Grizzly units but are more likely near deer and elk herds. The Maury and Ochoco units are recommended because of their greater amounts of accessible public land. Remember cougars must be checked in at an ODFW office within 10 days of harvest. Please consult the synopsis for all required parts and be sure to call first to make an appointment. Remember 2012 tag and hunting license needed as of Jan. 1.

COYOTES offer an exciting challenge for hunters. Coyote hunting should pick up once there is snow on the ground and pelts become prime. Both the Maury and Ochoco have sizeable areas of public lands that provide hunting opportunities. Hunters should use caution, be properly equipped and prepared for whatever the weather might bring.

THE DALLES WILDLIFE DISTRICT

COUGAR season is open. Hunters wishing to pursue cougar will find best success near areas of deer and elk concentrations and near recent cougar kills and calling. Successful hunters, remember you must check in cougar (hide and skull) and bear skull at an ODFW office within 10 days of harvest and bring them in unfrozen. It’s also a good idea to prop their mouths open with a stick after harvest for easier tissue sampling, teeth collection and tagging. See regulations for details. Remember 2012 tag and hunting license needed as of Jan. 1.

COYOTE: Those wishing to pursue will find the best success near agricultural lands. Be sure to ask permission to hunt private lands. Limited opportunities may also be found at White River Wildlife area, and on lower elevation forest service lands.

WHITE RIVER WILDLIFE AREA

COUGAR season is open all year or until zone mortality quotas have been met. Look for areas that have recent deer and elk activity. Focus your efforts along migration routes, and look for fresh tracks or kills to increase success. Remember 2012 tag and hunting license needed as of Jan. 1.

COYOTE hunters should be looking in open areas along the eastern perimeter of the wildlife area. Open fields can provide good calling opportunities on the area.
VEHICLE ACCESS: Winter road restrictions are in effect. Most of the roads are closed from Dec. 1-April 1 with a few that are closed from Dec. 1 - April 31 due to bad road conditions. The wildlife area is a vehicle regulated use area. Hunters bringing their ATVs are reminded that all vehicles are to stay on roads; cross country travel is prohibited.

Back to the top

VIEWING

The Dalles Area

ODFW White River Wildlife Area

High elevation snows prompt deer to begin their annual migrations to lower elevations. Deer can be observed commonly throughout the wildlife area, providing ample photo opportunities.

Elk are found spread out throughout White River Wildlife Area and can be hard to find. The winter weather will bunch them up more and it is possible to see a herd of 30 to 40 or more at a time.
Lewis' Woodpecker

Lewis's Woodpecker
- Wikipedia-

Turkeys are a common site throughout the wildlife area. Turkeys can be seen foraging for acorns, bugs and seeds this time of year. They are also ganging up into large groups and can often be heard early in the morning leaving their roosts. Look for them in open fields or near oak savannahs.

Bald and golden eagles and various other raptors are commonly observed. Other birds to keep an eye out for are Lewis’s Woodpeckers, Pileated Woodpeckers, Western Bluebirds, Robins, and Flickers.

Other animals that can occasionally be seen are coyotes, badgers, bobcats, bears and cougars. Some of these animals are very secretive and are hard to find. You might get to see a coyote wondering around but the other animals are a lot harder to find. Consider yourself lucky if you get to see one of them.

Winter road restrictions are in effect. Most of the roads are closed from Dec. 1 to April 1 with a few that are closed from Dec. 1 through April 31 due to bad road conditions. The wildlife area is a vehicle regulated use area. People using motorcycles and ATVs are reminded that all vehicles are to stay on roads; cross-country travel is prohibited. For more information and directions to the wildlife area, visit ODFW’s website. 1/9/12.

[Fishing Report]

Weekend fishing opportunities

Steelhead fishing has been good on the Grande Ronde River now that water levels have dropped.
Ice thickness on lakes and reservoirs is variable. Winter anglers should always use extreme caution before venturing out onto ice.

2013 Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations Public Process
The 2012 Public Process for developing the 2013 Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations is now underway. Click here to find out about how the process works and how you can propose a new fishing regulation or modify a current one.

If your favorite fishing spot is no longer listed
It’s probably because that river, lake or reservoir is closed for the season, inaccessible due to snow and bad roads, or offers limited fishing opportunities during the winter months. These waterbodies will re-appear in the Recreation Report when they re-open next spring, or when access and/or opportunity improves.

Send us your fishing report
We’d love to hear about your recent fishing experience. Send us your own fishing report through ODFW Fishing Reports -- the information will be forwarded to the local biologist who may use it to update various ODFW resources such as the Weekly Recreation Report.

BULL PRAIRIE RESERVOIR: trout

Open year-round but ice now covers the lake. The access road is unplowed and inaccessible for vehicles.

GRANDE RONDE RIVER: steelhead

Flowing ice returned to the lower Grande Ronde River last week as northeast Oregon experienced a series of cold nights. Angler effort and success declined with the colder temperatures. Catch rates averaged 7.2 hours per steelhead landed. Unsettled weather with a mix of rain and snow is forecast for the coming week, which could affect river conditions and make for difficult travel. We expect fair to good steelhead fishing as long as weather and river conditions are favorable.

Check river flows

HOLLIDAY PARK POND: trout

Fishing is fair for carryover trout and recently stocked rainbows.

IMNAHA RIVER: steelhead

Steelhead fishing is fair to good in the lower reaches of the river depending on weather and river conditions. The river has been flowing ice on some days following cold nights.
Fishing
Justin Botefuhr - steelhead caught on the lower John Day
-Photo by Rick Hargrave-

JOHN DAY RIVER: steelhead, smallmouth bass and channel catfish

Fishing for steelhead is fair unless ice or muddy water prevent it. Water temperatures are very cold. Most fish are being caught between Bridge Creek and Monument on bait and jigs. Steelhead fishing is also fair in the John Day arm below Tumwater Falls until the season closes here on March 31. All wild steelhead caught must be released back into the river unharmed.

Check John Day River flows.

LONG CREEK POND, CAVENDER POND: trout

Open year-round but ice now covers both ponds.

MAGONE LAKE: rainbow and brook trout

Open year-round but ice now covers the lake. The access road is unplowed and inaccessible for vehicles.

MORGAN LAKE: trout, bullheads, bass

Closed Oct. 31 for the winter.

OLIVE LAKE: rainbow and kokanee

Access to Olive Lake is now blocked by snow.

PEACH POND (Ladd Marsh): rainbow trout

Ice is not safe to be on. As of January 1, 2012 a parking permit is required to be on the Ladd Marsh Wildlife Area. For more information.

http://www.dfw.state.or.us/online_li...es/parking.asp

ROULET POND: rainbow trout

Use caution on ice as conditions can change quickly.

ROWE CREEK RESERVOIR: rainbow trout

Open year-round but ice now covers the reservoir. The reservoir is privately owned so please pick up your litter and follow all posted rules while fishing here.

TROUT FARM POND: rainbow and brook trout

Fishing for rainbow and brook trout is fair. This pond is spring fed and remains ice-free but anglers must walk through snow for access.

UMATILLA RIVER: steelhead

Steelhead fishing was slow this past week with high water conditions. Steelhead should be distributed throughout system when river flows recede. Anglers will have best success drift fishing and using bobber and jig/bait combinations.

Updated Threemile Dam fish counts can be accessed at http://www.dfw.state.or.us/fish/fish_counts/
Wallowa Lake

Wallowa Lake in the Winter
- Photo by Bob Swingle, ODFW -

WALLOWA LAKE: rainbow trout, kokanee, lake trout

Fishing has been fair for stocked rainbow trout for those willing to fish in cold weather.

WALLOWA RIVER: steelhead

Steelhead fishing is fair in the Rondowa area and poor in the Minam area.

Check river flows

WILLOW CREEK RESERVOIR: trout

Trout Fishing should be fair though out the winter.

Back to the top

HUNTING

OPEN: COUGAR, UPLAND BIRDS (close Jan. 31), GOOSE (closes Jan. 29)

New opportunities to hunt private land in Columbia Basin
See the Open Fields website for details. Most are on by-permission basis on private lands.

Hunter orange required for youth
Don’t forget: hunters age 17 and under must wear a fluorescent orange upper garment OR hat when hunting upland game birds (except turkey) and game mammals (deer, elk, bear, cougar, pronghorn, goat, sheep, western gray squirrel) with a firearm.

Use the Oregon Hunting Map to see where to hunt.

Wolf coyote identificationWolves in northeast Oregon
Wolves are protected by state law and it is unlawful to shoot them. Coyote hunters in northeastern Oregon need to take extra care to identify their target as wolves can look like coyotes, especially wolf pups in the mid-summer and fall.

ODFW needs hunters’ assistance to establish wolves’ presence in Oregon; please report any wolf sightings or wolf sign to La Grande office (541) 963-2138 or online.

BAKER COUNTY

WATERFOWL: Duck season closed January 22 and Goose season runs to January 29, 2012. Look for ducks and geese near agricultural fields. Be sure to ask permission before hunting private lands.

UPLAND BIRD: Quail, Hungarian Partridge and Chukar season ends Jan. 31. Spring counts were lower than last year but there are good numbers of birds available. Late broods seem to have had good survival rates.

COUGARS: Cougars can be found throughout Baker County. Setting up on a fresh kill, tracking after a new snow, 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. R

COYOTE: Coyote numbers are good throughout the district. Try calling in early morning and late afternoon. Pup in distress as well as prey in distress sounds can be productive. Remember to ask for permission before hunting on private properties.

GRANT COUNTY

SCHNEIDER WILDLIFE AREA is closed to all public entry from Feb. 1-April 14 to protect wintering mule deer.

UPLAND GAME BIRD hunting should be better than average this year especially for California Quail. Birds can be found throughout the John Day valley and in Murderers Creek Basin. Chukars can be found in the South Fork John Day but hunters should expect a good day to be two or three covey as there are few birds in Grant County compared to other parts of Oregon. Season closes Jan. 31.

COUGAR hunting remains open. Successful hunters, remember check-in of skull and carcass is mandatory; see the regulations for details. Remember 2012 tag and hunting license needed as of Jan. 1.

COYOTE numbers are good in most of the district. They may respond to distress calls.

MORROW, GILLIAM and WHEELER COUNTIES

UPLAND GAME BIRD Remember chukar and quail closed Dec. 31 in Morrow County.
Hunters are still finding game birds in all of our hunt areas. Hunter densities are currently low with a spike in hunter numbers expected at the end of the month. Gilliam and Wheeler counties will remain open for upland game bird hunting until January 31.

COUGAR hunting is open. Cougar are well distributed in our forested areas. Call with distress calls or cougar vocalizations can be effective when you do not have a cougar kill to work. Theoretically winter is here, going out after fresh snows can be a very effective way of find cougars. If/when we get snow find fresh tracks and follow can be successful when the tracks are fresh enough. Remember 2012 tag and hunting license needed.

COYOTE hunting: By all indications the coyote population is healthy with good numbers of coyotes available for those who wish to pursue them. Watch wind direction to help prevent giving away your location. Calling with game distress calls can be very successful.

UMATILLA COUNTY
Canada Geese
Canada Geese
- Photo by Bob Swingle, ODFW-

WATERFOWL are in the Columbia Basin in adequate numbers with duck and goose hunting in river blinds producing some results. River hunting produces best when there is some wind to agitate the water. Field blinds near the Columbia River for geese are producing well especially when the river corridor is fogged in. Season closes Jan. 29.

COUGAR are well distributed in forested areas of the Walla Walla, Mt. Emily, and Ukiah units. Hunters will have best success by finding a fresh naturally made kill and sitting on it, or by using predator calls. Some success has come from following tracks until the cougar is located. Remember 2012 tag and hunting license needed.

COYOTE are numerous throughout the District and hunters should have good success calling. Remember to ask permission before hunting on private lands.

UNION COUNTY

WATERFOWL: Duck season closed January 22 and Goose season runs to January 29, 2012. Look for ducks and geese near agricultural fields. Be sure to ask permission before hunting private lands.

UPLAND BIRD: Quail, Hungarian Partridge and Chukar season continues. Spring counts were lower than last year but there are good numbers of birds available. Late broods seem to have had good survival rates. Seasons close Jan. 31.

COUGARS: Cougars can be found throughout Baker County. Setting up on a fresh kill, tracking after a new snow, 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. R

COYOTE: Coyote numbers are good throughout the district. Try calling in early morning and late afternoon. Pup in distress as well as prey in distress sounds can be productive. Remember to ask for permission before hunting on private properties.

LADD MARSH WILDLIFE AREA

New this year, a parking permit is needed for Ladd Marsh. Hunters get the permit free with their purchase of an annual hunting license. Display on car dash. More information

All lands west of Foothill Road on Ladd Marsh Wildlife Area (La Grande) will also be closed to entry Feb. 1-March 31 to protect wintering elk.

Ladd Marsh Wildlife Area is open Saturday, Sunday, Wednesday and all state observed holidays during quail, partridge and waterfowl seasons. Visitors are advised to carefully read posted signs and consult game bird regulations before entering the wildlife area.

Cold overnight temperatures have frozen most of the wetlands but relatively warm and windy afternoons may open up some areas. Duck season is closed. Goose season remains open. Increasing numbers of Canada geese have been scattered across the area. Quail hunting remains fair. Upland habitat conditions are excellent. Therefore hunting with dogs is strongly encouraged. Remaining hunting seasons close Jan. 31.
Chukar

Chukar
-Photo by ODFW-

Wallowa District

CHUKAR: Chukar numbers are low throughout the district. Birds are scattered and hunters will need to cover large expanses of ground to find coveys. Closes Jan. 31.

WATERFOWL: Local Canada geese can be patterned as they utilize local agricultural areas providing good decoy hunting. Duck season is closed. Geese closes Jan. 19.

COYOTE: Good numbers of coyotes can be found throughout Wallowa County. Calling coyotes with rabbit distress type calls has been effective for hunters. It is important to choose areas with abundant coyote sign and little human activity.

COUGAR: Cougar numbers are strong throughout Wallowa County. Most lions are taken incidental to other hunting; however, calling with fawn bleat, or locating a cougar kill and waiting for a cat to return are often successful techniques.

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VIEWING

BAKER COUNTY

Rocky Mountain elk can be seen at the Elkhorn Wildlife Area. For a close up horse drawn wagon viewing opportunity try T&T Wildlife Tours at the Anthony Creek Feed site. http://www.tnthorsemanship.com/tours.htm
Mule Deer Buck
Mule Deer Buck
-Photo by Nick Myatt-

Mule Deer can be seen on their winter ranges throughout Baker County. Remember wildlife are particularly sensitive to harassment during the winter so view at a distance. Bald Eagles viewing opportunities are plentiful along the Brownlee Reservoir; you will need a keen eye and good optics to take full advantage of them. 1/17/12.

GRANT COUNTY

Deer are starting to move to the winter range and should provide a good viewing opportunity in the John Day Valley and Murderers Creek Basin.

There are a fair number of Bald Eagles that have moved into the John Day Valley and can be easily seen from Hwy 26 or Hwy 19. There is an unusual concentration of American Robins around Dayville.

Morrow, Gilliam and Wheeler Counties

Deer are more visiable this time of year; many can be seen in the fields between Heppner and Lexington. Around the bird feeders in the area one can find dark-eyed juncos and meadowlarks.

All our common winter raptors are here in numbers. The rough legged hawks, short-eared owls, and bald eagles, our most famous winter visitors, have all been seen. American kestrel, merlin, and sharp-shined hawks have all been seen in the area in their usual haunts. Our year round residents are here as well including red-tailed hawks and northern harriers.

Along the waterways one can spot numerous mallards, northern shovelers, pintails, blue and green wing teals, redheads, and buffleheads. Canada geese can be seen along all the major waterways of the area. Snow geese can be seen along the Columbia River.

UNION COUNTY

Ladd Marsh Wildlife Area

Note:Beginning Jan. 1, 2012 wildlife viewers and anglers will need a parking permit to park on the wildlife area. The $7 daily or $22 annual permit can be purchased online or at an ODFW office that sells licenses or at a license sales agent. Learn more about ODFW’s expanded Wildlife Area Parking Permit Program.

The Tule Lake auto route is closed for the season. Hunting seasons on the area will close after Sunday (Jan 29) signaling the end of Sat., Sun. and Wed. open days. Tule Lake Public Access Area and the Auto Route will re-open for the season March 1. The Glass Hill Unit will close to public entry beginning February 1 and will remain closed through March 31 to benefit wintering wildlife. Visitors are advised to carefully read posted signs and consult game bird regulations before entering the wildlife area. There are numerous quality-viewing opportunities from county roads that pass through the area. Binoculars or a spotting scope will help as many animals are best viewed from a distance.

Waterfowl numbers are rebounding as relatively warm, windy afternoons keep some ponds open. A few ducks may be found using small patches of open water or resting on the ice. Canada goose numbers have increased with some birds taking an early look at nest sites.
Northern Shrike
Northern Shrike
-Wickipedia-

Northern shrike has been observed in several locations along county roads. American tree sparrows can be found in scattered tree and shrub belts. A few species such as Bewick’s wren and black-capped chickadee have begun singing – reminding us that spring is not far off.

Bald eagles have been seen in scattered areas of the marsh. Watch for them in flight over the marsh or perched in trees or on fence posts. Several sharp-shinned hawks have also been actively hunting the area. Numerous great horned owls are present on Ladd Marsh and are more visible at their day-time perches now that the leaves are off the trees.

Mule and white-tailed deer can be seen in the meadows and on the slopes of Glass Hill.
Dogs are not permitted within the Wildlife Area, on or off leash except west of Foothill Road from Sept. 1 through authorized hunting seasons. For more information on access rules for Ladd Marsh Wildlife Area, please consult the Oregon Game Bird Regulations or call the wildlife area (541) 963-4954. 1/24/12.

Back

[Fishing Report]

Weekend fishing opportunities:

2012 Winter Steelhead Guide now online. The guide offers the novice steelhead angler an overview of where and when to fish for winter steelhead season. For the more experienced angler, the guide also includes updates on access and regulations, and lists other changes that could affect fishing.
There are winter steelhead in the Chetco, Elk and Sixes rivers. Keep an eye on water flows and try to hit the rivers when water levels are dropping.

Don’t overlook lakes and reservoirs just because they haven’t been stocked recently. Fishing for holdover fish can be good throughout the winter – check out Applegate, Emigrant, Lost Creek and Garrison.

2013 Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations Public Process
The 2012 Public Process for developing the 2013 Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations is now underway. Click here to find out about how the process works and how you can propose a new fishing regulation or modify a current one.

If your favorite fishing spot is no longer listed
It’s probably because that river, lake or reservoir is closed for the season, inaccessible due to snow and bad roads, or offers limited fishing opportunities during the winter months. These waterbodies will re-appear in the Recreation Report when they re-open next spring, or when access and/or opportunity improves.

Send us your fishing report
We’d love to hear about your recent fishing experience. Send us your own fishing report through ODFW Fishing Reports -- the information will be forwarded to the local biologist who may use it to update various ODFW resources such as the Weekly Recreation Report.

AGATE LAKE: trout, largemouth bass, black crappie

Agate Lake has been stocked with legal and larger-sized rainbow trout, which will be available throughout the winter. Add to this its proximity to Medford and its low elevation, Agate Lake is a great destination for fishing during the winter. The reservoir level is now at 31 percent of capacity.

APPLEGATE RESERVOIR: trout, spring chinook, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass

Applegate Reservoir has been stocked with legal and larger-sized rainbows. These fish will be available and should provide good fishing throughout the winter. The Hart-tish boat ramp and facilities are closed, but the French Gulch low water ramp is open. While the French Gulch boat ramp is open, it is very muddy and may be difficult to use. A variety of techniques can produce trout at Applegate, including trolling lures, flies, or wedding ring and worm combinations, as well as fishing with bait.

APPLEGATE RIVER: rainbow and cutthroat trout, winter steelhead

The river is open for adipose fin-clipped trout. All non adipose fin-clipped (wild) rainbow trout and all cutthroat trout must be released unharmed. The Applegate is now open for retention of adipose fin-clipped steelhead as of Jan. 1. The majority of winter steelhead typically do not enter the Applegate River until later in the season. Since flow in the Applegate usually drops at a faster rate than it does in the Rogue, it often is fishable when the Rogue is high and out of shape. Angling from a floating device is not allowed on the Applegate River.

Applegate River flows at Wilderville

ARIZONA POND: rainbow trout

Arizona Pond levels will be near normal by the weekend and even though no trout have been planted recently there are still some carry over trout from last year. The pond is managed by Oregon State Parks and is open only to youth 17 and under.

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

Ben Irving Reservoir, west of Winston, was stocked with trout during 2011 in April, May and again in early September. With the cooler water temperatures, success for warm water species is slowing down.

CHETCO RIVER: steelhead

Rivers flows have been high, but should be good by the weekend. There are lots of steelhead spread throughout the river. Plunkers targeting steelhead from the many gravel bars along the Chetco will fare the best until flows drop to around 4000 cfs. Anglers should always check the flows before heading out and try to fish when river levels are dropping.

ODFW is conducting a steelhead angler creel on the Chetco this year, along with chinook salmon scale collection, and winter steelhead broodstock collection. At times, these projects may interfere with an anglers fishing. Please be courteous to all ODFW personnel and volunteers

Chetco River flows near Brookings

COOPER CREEK RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, bass, bluegill, crappie

Cooper Creek received over 11,000 trout during spring 2011. Fishing has been fair for trout lately despite the cold temperatures. Anglers using PowerBait caught some nice fish between 10 to 12-inches. An additonal 1,500 trout were stocked for Labor Day weekend in 2011.

COOS RIVER BASIN: Dungeness crab, bay clams, steelhead,

The local rivers have been high and muddy this past week. Anglers were catching steelhead on the West Fork Millicoma River near the Interpretive Center over the weekend. There have been lots of landslides and trees across the roads with the recent storms, so use caution when traveling for fishing. Anglers can call the Weyerhaeuser hotline at 888-741-5403 to see if the road along the South Coos River is open.

Crabbing is slower due to the recent rains. The best place to crab is near the Jetties.
Razor Clam

Razor Clamming
- Oregon Fish and Wildlife-

Clamming is excellent during low tides near Charleston, off Cape Arago Highway, and Clam Island. There are good places to dig clams even on positive low tides in Coos Bay. For more information on shellfish in Coos Bay click on the following link: Shellfish Assessment of Coastal Oregon. Before any shellfish harvest trip, make sure to check the Oregon Department of Agriculture website for any updates http://oregon.gov/ODA/FSD/shellfish_status.shtml

COQUILLE RIVER BASIN steelhead

The rivers have been high and muddy due to the recent rain. There have been lots of landslides throughout the region keeping the water colored up longer than normal. Use caution and what for fallen trees and landslides when traveling to your fishing destination

DIAMOND LAKE: rainbow trout

Diamond Lake is closed to angling until the opener on April 28. Diamond Lake Resort will remain open for other winter activities. For additional information, contact Diamond Lake Resort at 1-800-733-7593.

ELK RIVER: steelhead

Steelhead fishing should be excellent by the weekend if flows continue to drop. Most anglers drift from Elk River Hatchery down to Ironhead boat ramp. The best flows for drifting Elk River are 5 foot and dropping.

Check river conditions by calling 541-332-0405.

Anglers are reminded to check temporary regulations prior to fishing.

EMIGRANT RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, black crappie

With stocked rainbow trout available, its low elevation, and its close proximity to Ashland, Emigrant Reservoir is a good destination for fishing during the winter. Trolling slowly with lures or bait-lure combinations can be effective. Bank access is readily available and anglers there can do well still-fishing with bait. The water level at Emigrant is at 50 percent of capacity.

Anglers should be aware that a health advisory has been issued recommending limits on consumption of all fish from Emigrant except rainbow trout. Information on the Emigrant Reservoir advisory, along with general information on mercury and fish can be found on the DHS Website.

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

Expo Pond is located at the Jackson County Fairgrounds immediately adjacent to the access road at Gate 5. The pond has been stocked with legal, larger, and trophy-sized rainbow trout. In addition, the north pond near Upton Road was also stocked with trophy trout. This should create an excellent opportunity throughout the winter for families to experience good trout fishing close to home.

FISH LAKE: rainbow trout, brook trout, spring chinook

Fish Lake was stocked with rainbow trout averaging over one pound each. These fish are still available in good numbers; however, catch rates have declined with the cooler water temperatures. Look for trout to congregate around the springs on the northeast side of the lake. Anglers traveling to Fish Lake should be prepared for winter conditions, and use caution as ice forms around the lake.
Redband Trout
Juvenile Tiger Trout
-Photo by David Haight, ODFW-

ODFW stocked juvenile tiger trout (a brook trout—brown trout hybrid) into Fish Lake this fall. It is hoped that these predatory trout will feed on the abundant minnows in the lake and grow to provide for a trophy-quality fishery in a few years.

GALESVILLE RESERVIOR: rainbow trout, bass

Galesville Reservoir is open to angling year-round. In addition to trout, the reservoir has also been stocked with coho smolts the last couple years. Coho stocked are about 9 to 14 inches long now and have been biting recently. Trolling with flashers followed by a worm, or using spinners has been successful. Many people mistakenly think these fish are kokanee. All of the coho smolts are adipose fin-clipped. In Galesville Reservoir, all landlocked salmon are considered trout. Thus, there is a five per day trout limit, with only one trout over 20 inches in length allowed for harvest. Fly anglers recently had some good success catching both coho and rainbows on wooly buggers and leech patterns while trolling.

Stocking for 2011 began in early March and continued through early June. Anglers are reminded all bass between 12 and 15 inches must be released, and only one bass over 15 inches may be taken per day. Galesville now has a campground. Call 541-837-3302 for information on camping and boat launching conditions.

GARRISON LAKE: rainbow trout

Anglers willing to brave the weather can expect good numbers of carry over hatchery trout and resident cutthroat. Anglers will want to fish 6 to 8 foot deep water near some deeper water as fish will move onto to the flats to feed and back into deeper water to hold. Fly fishing or slow trolling a wedding ring spinner are two good choices. Boat anglers will want to keep an eye on the weather and fish the lake when there is no wind. Access for bank anglers is best at the 12th street boat ramp or along the foredune accessed through Tseriadun State Park. Garrison Lake is located in the middle of Port Orford. Boat anglers are reminded to clean all aquatic vegetation off their boats and trailers before heading home to help control the spread non-native plants and animals.

HEMLOCK LAKE & LAKE IN THE WOODS: trout

Hemlock Lake was stocked with additional trout for the 2011 Labor Day Weekend. Be aware during winter travel that the road to Hemlock is not plowed.

HOWARD PRAIRIE RESERVOIR: trout, bass

Howard Prairie is closed for the season.

HYATT LAKE: trout, largemouth bass

Hyatt Lake is closed for the season.

ILLINOIS RIVER: trout, steelhead

The Illinois River downstream of Pomeroy Dam is open for fishing, and is restricted to artificial flies and lures. Non adipose fin-clipped (wild) rainbow trout and all cutthroat trout must be released unharmed. However, the mainstem Illinois River from Briggs Creek to Pomeroy Dam is open for non adipose fin-clipped (wild) steelhead at least 24 inches in length which may be kept, 1 per day, 5 per year, as part of the daily or annual steelhead/salmon catch limit. The Illinois has been low and clear but still offers some of the most scenic and isolated winter steelhead fishing in the state and there should be some bright fish available. The flow in the river is forecast to increase again later this week but remember the Illinois drops into shape quickly after major freshets. The river is closed to fishing for salmon. See angling regulations for more information.

Illinois River flows at Kerby

LAKE MARIE: rainbow trout

Lake Marie received 4,500 trout during 2011, including 500 trout for Labor Day Weekend. Fishing has been slow.

LAKE SELMAC: trout, largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie

Lake Selmac was stocked with legal and larger-sized rainbow trout, which are still available in good numbers. Given its low elevation and the availability of stocked rainbow, Lake Selmac offeres good trout fishing throughout the winter.

LEMOLO RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, brown trout.

Lemolo Reservoir closed for angling on Nov. 1. Lemolo Resort will remain open for other winter sports. For additional information contact the resort at 541-957-8354.

LOON LAKE: rainbow trout, bass, bluegill

Loon Lake received around 9,297 legal-sized trout in 2010 and 2011. Fishing for bass and bluegill is also popular. The resort and BLM boat ramp are now closed.

LOST CREEK RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, spring chinook, bass

Rainbows in the 12-15 inch range have been caught over the last 2 weeks trolling and using bait. Lost Creek is well-stocked with rainbow trout, including trophy trout averaging over one pound each. The reservoir is one of the best spots in the Rogue Valley to fish for trout during the winter. Boat anglers do well trolling a variety of lures and bait such as; Ford fender and worm combination; wedding ring and worm or wedding ring and power egg behind a small sinker; kokanutt/worm combination behind a dodger. Bank anglers have been catching fish by fishing bait and can find easy access near the Takelma Ramp. The Takelma Ramp is the only developed boat ramp open during the winter.
A boy with a String of Bass
A boy with a String of Bass
-Photo by Matt Frank-

MEDCO POND: rainbow trout, largemouth bass, bluegill

ODFW stocked Medco Pond with trophy-sized rainbow trout, which should create a good opportunity for anglers through the winter. Medco Pond is well suited for fishing from the bank, but anglers can utilize float tubes and other small watercraft as well.

PACIFIC OCEAN AND BEACHES: bottomfish, crab, surfperch

Recreational crabbing re-opened in the ocean on Dec. 15.

A few anglers have caught surfperch from the beaches near Coos Bay on days with lower ocean swells. Sand shrimp or sand worms are a very good bait to use when fishing for surfperch.

Fishing for bottom fish is open at all depths. Rough ocean conditions are keeping anglers from fishing in the ocean. Anglers may not retain cabezon between Jan. 1 and March 31.

PLAT I RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, warmwater game fish

Bass can be harvested from March 1 to Oct. 31 and are catch-and-release only from Nov. 1-Feb. Plat I has received over 4,500 trout in 2011. In addition to trout fishing the lake also has good bass fishing. The reservoir is currently very low due to the annual drawdown.

REINHART POND: rainbow trout, warm water fish

Reinhart Pond has been stocked with legal, larger, and trophy-sized rainbow trout, some over two pounds. These trout will be available throughout the winter and should continue to provide a good fishing opportunity for families in the Grants Pass area.

ROGUE RIVER

To find out more about conservation, management and outreach efforts on the Rogue River, check out the Rogue River page on the ODFW Web site.

River users can find stream flows and temperatures for several Rogue River reporting stations at this website: Rogue River levels.

Rogue River, lower: steelhead

Steelhead fishing should really take off once the flows drop and clear. Bank anglers fishing off one of the many gravel bars will fare the best. Anglers will want to fish in 2 to 4 feet of water to intercept winter steelhead moving up river. Anglers will want to check flows before heading out and try to fish when the water is dropping.

Rogue River, middle: steelhead, trout

Summer steelhead are still available in the middle Rogue River. However, high flows due to recent storms have made the river high and muddy. Bank anglers should try side planers with plugs close to the bank. Boat anglers should fish about 10 feet out from the bank with dark colored plugs. Presenting offerings in close to the bank, and in slower moving water will yield the best results. There were reports of bright steelhead landed in this area while the river was low, clear and cold. Warmer water from the rains should increase the number of steelhead in the middle Rogue and increase the bite. Rainbow and cutthroat trout are available as well. All non adipose fin-clipped rainbow trout and coho; and all cutthroat trout must be released unharmed. In the area below Hog Creek anglers may now keep nonadipose fin-clipped steelhead at least 24 inches in length, 1 per day, 5 per year; as part of the salmon/steelhead catch limit. Above Hog Creek, anglers may only keep adipose fin-clipped steelhead until Feb. 1.

The river flow at Grants Pass on January 23 was 4,760 cfs and the water temperature was about 40 oF. River flow is forecast to increase until this weekend.

Rogue River, upper: steelhead, trout

A few bright, possibly winter steelhead were caught in the upper Rogue recently. As of Jan. 23, the Rogue was fishable from the dam down to Rogue Elk Park. Storms this week are expected to cause flows in the river to increase until the weekend. A total of 2,712 summer steelhead and 1918 coho salmon have entered Cole Rivers Hatchery as of Jan. 18. The outflow from Lost Creek Reservoir was 1,070 cfs on Jan. 23, and the water temperature was 40 oF. Fishing for steelhead has been slow. With the cold water, the steelhead are less active and unlikely to chase rapidly moving flies or lures. Warmer water and higher flows from recent rains should increase the number of winter steelhead in the upper river. Presenting offerings slowly along the bottom, closer to the bank, and in slower moving water will produce the best results. All non adipose fin-clipped steelhead, trout, and coho must be released unharmed.

Rogue River, above Lost Creek Reservoir: trout

Closed to fishing for the season.

SIXES RIVER: steelhead

Chinook fishing is closed on the Sixes, but steelhead fishing is picking up. Most anglers drift the river, but there is some bank access at ODFW, BLM, and Oregon State Park properties.

SMITH RIVER: striped bass, fall chinook, steelhead

The Smith is open to striped bass year-round, two fish per 24 hours, 24-inch minimum size. The Smith is now closed for trout fishing. Steelhead fishing has been good. Most of the angling opportunity will be catch and release of wild fish; however, adipose fin clipped steelhead can be harvested in the Smith.

SODA SPRINGS RESERVOIR: brown and rainbow trout

Soda Springs Reservoir is open year-round for trout angling, but fishing is typically slow this time of year. Currently, due to construction at Soda Springs ladder, no boat ramp is accessible, but fishing is open from Medicine Creek bridge down to the buoy line markers mid-reservoir.

TENMILE BASIN: steelhead

Fishing is good on Tenmile Creek. Anglers have caught most of the steelhead plunking with bait. Eel Creek opened to steelhead fishing on Jan. 1.

TOKETEE LAKE: brown trout, rainbow trout

Fishing is open in Toketee year-round. The construction at the campground and boat ramp are finally complete, so the area is now open. For more information call the U.S. Forest Service at 541-498-2531.

UMPQUA ESTUARY: sturgeon, striped bass, chinook

Sturgeon fishing has been good below the Hwy 101 bridge. Steelhead are entering the Umpqua, but only adipose fin-clipped steelhead can be harvested. The rains will cause high turbid conditions this week, but fishing should pick up when rivers come into shape.

UMPQUA HIGH LAKES AND FOREBAYS: trout

Red Top Lake above Myrtle Creek was stocked for Labor Day 2011. Most high lakes are snowed in until summer, but if some remain accessible they are open year round for brook trout or rainbow trout fishing. For brook trout anglers should try Cliff, Buckeye, Skookum (North Umpqua), Maidu, Twin and Wolf lakes. Linda and Calamut have been stocked with a native rainbow for the last couple of years. Bullpup and Fuller still have brook trout, but were also recently stocked with some fingerling native rainbows.

UMPQUA RIVER, MAINSTEM: steelhead, sturgeon, chinook, bass, striped bass

The mainstem Umpqua is closed to wild steelhead harvest, but remains open year-round for adipose fin-clipped steelhead. Boat anglers will have the most success using either plugs or side drifting techniques. Recent rains have spread fish throughout the basin. Watch the graphs for the water flows and try to fish while the river is dropping. Bank anglers can find success by either dead drifting bait or plunking. Plunking can be especially productive during higher flows as the fish tend to stay out of the main current and travel upstream closer to the banks. We are expecting a good number of hatchery fish to return to the South Umpqua this year; however, they will compose 7-11 percent of the steelhead in the Mainstem. Thus, angling opportunity is primarily catch-and-release in the Mainstem. Practice good angling ethics to release wild fish unharmed with a minimum of handling. Please report anybody harvesting wild steelhead to OSP.

NOTE: Contrary to recent rumors, there will be no changes to the winter steelhead regulations for the Umpqua Basin in 2012. Please call ODFW Roseburg if you have questions, 541-440-3353.

Umpqua River flows near Elkton

UMPQUA RIVER, NORTH: steelhead

Recent rains should improve the fishing in the lower North Umpqua for winter steelhead. The North Umpqua is closed to wild steelhead harvest and only adipose fin clipped fish may be kept.

Note that from Oct. 1 through June 30, 2011, single weighted barbless flies may be used. Fishing at Swiftwater will improve when some rain helps move more steelhead into the area. Only adipose fin-clipped steelhead can be retained on the North Umpqua. Adipose fin-clipped coho can also be harvested on the North, however hatchery coho have comprised less than 7 percent of the North Umpqua coho run in recent years.

Anglers catching a coho with a pink floy tag should release the fish unharmed. The ODFW is tagging wild coho at Winchester Dam to look at the distribution of the fish.

The North Umpqua mainstem and the tributaries upstream of Soda Springs Reservoir are currently closed for season, and will re-open April 28.

North Umpqua River water levels at Winchester Dam

UMPQUA RIVER, SOUTH: winter steelhead
The South Umpqua is now open for winter steelhead and recent rains should move more steelhead into the system. Only adipose fin clipped steelhead can be harvested. The rain should finally make the South fishable by boat after the water spikes and normalizes. Plunkers should enjoy some good fishing this weekend as the water levels drop from the rain earlier this week. Fishing will continue to improve throughout the winter with the best fishing generally occurring from late February through March. There should be good numbers of hatchery fish returning this year since 91,000 smolts were released in 2009 and 101,000 were released in 2010.

South Umpqua River water levels near Riddle

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

Fishing for rainbow trout has been fair to good. Due to good water levels, Jackson County Parks will be allowing day use of some facilities at Willow Lake this winter. The gate will open at 8 a.m., and will be locked at 5 p.m. The boat ramp will be available but camping facilities remained closed. This will provide Rogue Valley anglers a great spot for winter trout fishing above the fog.
Coho Salmon
Coho Salmon
-Photo by Rick Swart-

WINCHESTER BAY: sturgeon, coho, chinook, rockfish

The South Jetty has been fair for bottom fishing. Crabbing has slowed with the increase of fresh water in the Bay. Check with the Coast Guard for new deadlines in the lower Umpqua when the bar is closed (541-271-4847).

WINCHUCK RIVER: steelhead
Chinook fishing is closed. Steelhead fishing is just getting started. The Winchuck is a good river to fish after a rain because the river is one of the first to clear and become fishable. Access is limited in the lower river, but is fairly good in the upper river.

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HUNTING

OPEN: COUGAR, FOREST GROUSE, QUAIL, WATERFOWL (see regulations)

UPLAND BIRD HUNTING CLOSES JAN. 31. WATERFOWL CLOSES JAN. 29.

SPRING BEAR TAGS: SW Oregon spring bear tags usually sell out right around the draw; 2,436 have been sold as of Jan. 23. Consider purchasing one now if you aren’t applying for the spring bear draw. Otherwise you need to wait until after draw results. Spring bear applications due Feb. 10, 2012.
Female wolf
Wolf

Wolves and coyotes can look alike

Most wolves in the state today are in northeast Oregon but a few have dispersed further west and south. Wolves are protected by state and/or federal law and it is unlawful to shoot them. Coyote hunters need to take extra care to identify their target as wolves can look like coyotes, especially wolf pups in the mid-summer and fall. ODFW appreciates hunters’ assistance to establish wolves’ presence in Oregon; please report any wolf sightings or wolf sign to ODFW using the online reporting system.

Hunter orange required for youth
Don’t forget: hunters age 17 and under must wear a fluorescent orange upper garment OR hat when hunting upland game birds (except turkey) and game mammals (deer, elk, bear, cougar, pronghorn, goat, sheep, Western gray squirrel) with a firearm.

Use the Oregon Hunting Map to see where to hunt.

COOS COUNTY

Elliot State Forest Closure
Parts of the road closure ended Nov. 4. More information

COUGAR season is open year round in Oregon until quotas for specific zones are filled. Refer to page 41 of the 2011 Oregon Big Game Regulations for more information. Most successful cougar hunters scout for deer and elk and locate areas where these animals congregate. Cougars can be found near these concentrations. Hunting with predator calls in areas where deer and elk are plentiful is often the most successful way to hunt cougars. Remember 2012 tag and hunting license needed as of Jan. 1.

COYOTE populations are good in Coos County and they will often respond to calls. Calling coyotes in the coast range is challenging due to brush. Many landowners with sheep are complaining about losses of sheep to coyote predation. Hunters interested in hunting coyotes may find success in asking for permission to hunt private land where landowners are losing sheep.

GROUSE and QUAIL seasons are open. Grouse populations are down presently because chick survival this spring was poor. Those who want to find grouse may find success near creek bottoms where they find food and are out of the wind. Seasons close Jan. 31.

Quail hunting will be best along sparsely vegetated ridges and around the edges of clear-cuts for mountain quail and near low elevation agricultural lands for California quail. To narrow down the search for quail hunters should arrive in early morning at places they intend to hunt and listen for calling birds. Then, based on where the hunter hears the birds plan the hunt.

WATERFOWL Rain in recent weeks has created many temporary ponds in inland valleys where waterfowl can find feeding opportunities. Many waterfowl that were concentrated in the bays have redistributed to these inland areas. Hunters will find the best hunting in Winter Lake near Coquille and other places where temporary ponds are present in agricultural fields inland away from the coast. Most of these areas are on private land so hunters must secure permission to access private land. Remaining seasons close Jan. 29.

SNIPE: Go on a real snipe hunt this fall. Wilson’s snipe will migrate through Oregon in waves. At times it seems like they are very common and can be found near any body of water. Then, between waves of birds they are hard to find. Only a hunting license and Harvest Information Program (HIP) validation is required to hunt snipe. Small Non-toxic shot is recommended since these birds are most common around wetlands. The best places to look for snipe are places where grass is flooded by rising water levels. Snipe tend to feed on invertebrates that come to the soil surface as water floods the soil. At times these birds can even be found in clear cuts during rainy periods.

DOUGLAS COUNTY

Elk - Only controlled hunts are open at this time. Elk populations are similar to last year.

Cougar – Cougar season is open. Hunting cougar is most successful adjacent to private land with high deer populations.
Coyote
Coyote
-Oregon Fish and Wildlife-

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.

UPLAND GAMEBIRDS:

Grouse & Quail - The season ends for grouse and quail on January 31, 2012.

MIGRATORY GAMEBIRDS:

Crow–The season ends on January 31, 2012.

WATERFOWL:

The season ends on January 31, 2012.

TRAPPING:

Furbearers – A reminder to trappers and hunters that specific licenses and tags are required to hunt many furbearer species, and hunters should refer to the 2010-12 Oregon Furbearer Trapping and Hunting Regulations for details. Currently, bobcat, fox and raccoon pursuit season is open.

Bobcat, & Gray Fox – Currently open. Healthy populations throughout Western Oregon.

River Otter, Beaver & Raccoon – Currently open. Healthy populations throughout Western Oregon. The last day of the season for these species is March 15, 2012.

Mink & Muskrat – Currently open. Healthy populations throughout Western Oregon. The last day of the season for mink and muskrat is March 31, 2012.

Marten –The last day of the season is January 31, 2012.

JACKSON, JOSEPHINE, CURRY COUNTIES

DENMAN WILDLIFE AREA: New this year, a parking permit is needed to park at Denman. Hunters get the permit free with their purchase of an annual hunting license. Display on car dash. More information

COUGAR general season is open state wide year-round or until zone quotas are met. Refer to regulations for more information. Remember 2012 tag and hunting license needed.
gadwell drake and hen

Ducks
- Photo by Kathy Munsel, ODFW-

WATERFOWL: Season closes January 29. Duck and goose hunting this year will be average. For the past few weeks of December waterfowl hunting has improved with a few weather condition changes. Several hunters are limiting out on the Denman area ponds. Denman Wildlife Area Hall tract will only be open for hunting Saturdays, Sundays, and Wednesdays for the month of January all other tracts on the Wildlife Area will be open everyday through the season. Many ponds exist in the Rogue valley although most are on private lands; hunters need to ask for permission. South Coast Zone goose hunting closes Jan. 15.

SNIPE season open thru Feb. 19. Snipe is another challenging bird to hunt for they are small, fast and erratic low-flying birds that can be hard to identify. Be sure to know how to differentiate it from killdeer and other shorebirds before you hunt. Snipe may be spooked in areas where there are high numbers of hunters but other times a person can walk up on them. Snipe almost always emit a call when they take off in flight. The best time to hunt snipe will be late fall and winter months. Denman Wildlife Area has decent numbers of snipe.

Both MOUNTAIN QUAIL and FOREST GROUSE season closes January 31, numbers appear to be average with hunters expecting to have a fair harvest.

WESTERN GRAY SQUIRREL season is only open in a portion of the Rogue unit check your Big Game Regulations for area descriptions. Squirrels can be found in oak or mixed conifer stands. Acorn production is spotty this year so hunters should look for trees producing acorns. This is a great animal to hunt for first time hunters.

COYOTES are abundant in our area. Remember to ask for permission to hunt on private lands.

TRAPPING & HUNTING:

FURBEARERS – Pursuit season in underway for bobcat, fox and raccoon. In order to pursue a Furtaker’s License or Hunting License for Furbearers must be in possession. Furbearer harvest season currently open for bobcat, gray fox, marten, muskrat/mink, raccoon, river otter and beaver. Marten season will end January 31. Western Oregon populations are healthy with gray fox and raccoons slightly higher than normal.

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VIEWING

TAX TIME

When completing your taxes for calendar year 2011 don’t forget to make your donation for the Nongame Tax Check-off Fund on your Oregon return.

COOS COUNTY

Large winter storms have a significant effect on the distribution of many bird species. When the storms take a break and allow good viewing conditions those interested in seeing species they would not normally see in the area may have an opportunity to do so. For example, a western bluebird was recently seen in Ross Inlet near Coos Bay. Good areas to look for uncommon species are in any of the valleys that feed Coos Bay, the mud flats in Coos Bay and the lower Coquille River, but surprising species could turn up anywhere.
brown pelican

Brown Pelican
- Photo by Kathy Munsel -

Large numbers of more common sea birds like gulls of various species, common murres and pelicans can be seen in the wind-protected areas behind coastal islands. Viewers should be very careful not to get too close to the ocean because surf can be big and dangerous at this time of year. Good places to look are areas around Cape Arago and near Bandon. At times thousands of birds can be seen bunched together in these areas.

Large numbers of waterfowl are present in many places around Coos County. Due to winter storms and rainfall they have become scattered throughout many of the valleys. The birds are, for the most part, in full breeding plumage and the diversity of species in striking. Those interested in seeing these birds will find large numbers in Winter Lake near Coquille and on Bandon Marsh National Wildlife Regufe near Bandon. Local bays will have birds to view as well. 1/24/12.

DOUGLAS COUNTY

Songbirds

Winter songbirds including Western Bluebirds can be seen at Stewart Park and Stewart Park trail in Roseburg. Viewing is best in the late morning to early afternoon.

Peregrine Falcons

Peregrine Falcons are now commonly seen on the Umpqua Valley floor especially near Melrose, Lookinglass, Umpqua and other open areas close to the Umpqua River.

CURRY, JACKSON, JOSEPHINE COUNTIES

Curry County

For a great birding trail along the southern coast, visit Oregon Birding Trails, http://www.oregonbirdingtrails.org/

JACKSON AND JOSEPHINE COUNTIES

As of Jan. 1, 2012, five ODFW Wildlife Areas require a $7 daily parking permit or a $22 annual parking permit

Denman Wildlife Area, Central Point; E.E. Wilson Wildlife Area, Monmouth; Ladd Marsh Wildlife Area, La Grande; Summer Lake Wildlife Area, Summer Lake; Sauvie Island Wildlife Area, Sauvie Island. A free Parking Permit will be included with an annual Oregon hunting license; combination fishing and hunting license; and Sports Pac. More information

Denman Wildlife Area
The construction along Little Butte Creek is complete. A new trail has been constructed along the new portion of the Little Butte Creek. The trail has been flagged and mowed.

Hunting season will continue through Feb. 19 on the Denman Wildlife Area. Other recreational users are encouraged to wear bright orange or other bright colored clothing and to stick to the trail systems.
Snipe are small, fast and erratic low-flying birds that can be hard to identify. They can be easily confused with killdeer and other shorebirds. Snipe are found in muddy or shallow water areas feeding on insects. Snipe almost always emit a call when they take off in flight. Denman Wildlife Area has decent numbers of snipe. 11/22/11.

[Fishing Report]

Weekend fishing opportunities:

Ice fishing has been very good on Thief Valley and Unity reservoirs and Yellowjacket Lake.
Ice thickness on lakes and reservoirs is variable. Winter anglers should always use extreme caution before venturing out onto ice.

2013 Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations Public Process
The 2012 Public Process for developing the 2013 Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations is now underway. Click here to find out about how the process works and how you can propose a new fishing regulation or modify a current one.

If your favorite fishing spot is no longer listed
It’s probably because that river, lake or reservoir is closed for the season, inaccessible due to snow and bad roads, or offers limited fishing opportunities during the winter months. These waterbodies will re-appear in the Recreation Report when they re-open next spring, or when access and/or opportunity improves.

Send us your fishing report
We’d love to hear about your recent fishing experience. Send us your own fishing report through ODFW Fishing Reports -- the information will be forwarded to the local biologist who may use it to update various ODFW resources such as the Weekly Recreation Report.

ANA RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout

Fishing for rainbow trout is available throughout the winter. Anglers targeting hybrid bass are experiencing fair success.

ANA RIVER: hatchery rainbow trout

Fishing for rainbow trout is available throughout the winter. On a nice day the river can be a great escape from the winter doldrums with a chance to enjoy the sunshine and blue sky. Winter storms can make for a challenging angling experience.

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

No recent angling reports. No recent report on ice coverage, the reservoir is probably ice covered. With the warm wet conditions the ice is variable and unsafe to walk on at this time anglers should use caution. Inflows remain above normal for this time of the year, averaging 76 cfs (Jan. 22). Water level is slowly rising, with the current level at 52 percent of full (Jan. 22). The boat ramp currently is closed due to ice; the water level is 6 feet above the bottom of the ramp. USBR sampled the fish populations in the reservoir. They tagged a few trout. If you catch a tagged trout report it to either the Ontario office at 541-889-6975 or the Hines office at 541-573-6582.

BLITZEN RIVER: trout

Flows on the Blitzen have come up a bit to 58 cfs (Jan. 23). Good fishing reports have been received from anglers taking advantage of the unseasonably mild weather patterns. Redband trout are being caught on larger flies and lures in darker patterns. The upper Basin is closed to harvest but remains open along with the Little Blitzen for catch-and-release.
Large-mouth Bass
Large-mouth Bass
-U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service-

BULLY CREEK RESERVOIR: bass, white crappie, yellow perch, catfish, and trout.

No recent angling reports. No recent report on ice coverage, the reservoir is probably ice covered. Ice thickness is variable and unsafe to walk on at this time, anglers should use caution. The reservoir is 53 percent full (Jan. 17). The boat ramp is open for use.

BURNS POND: trout, bass

Legal-sized fish were stocked in the pond during the first week in October. Trout catch rates have improved. Ice fishing on the pond has been occurring; reports of ice depths up to 6 inches have been reported. Caution is recommended on ice.

CHEWAUCAN RIVER: redband trout, largemouth bass

Fishing for wild redband trout upstream of Hwy 31 is open but challenging during the winter months. Snow depth can make access to the river difficult. The use of bait upstream of Hyw 31 bridge is PROHIBITED!

CHICKAHOMINY RESERVOIR: trout

Fishing has been good for legal-sized trout stocked in the reservoir. Ice is shrinking away from the shore leaving open water along the shoreline. The inlet of the reservoir contains large areas of open water. The ice appears to be the thickest near the boat ramp; however, small puddles of water appear on the surface. Ice fishing is not recommended at this time.

COTTONWOOD MEADOWS: rainbow trout, kokanee

No information on if there is ice on the lake.

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

No recent fishing report. Both lakes are probably ice covered. Ice thickness is variable and anglers should use caution. Access into Upper Cow Lake is questionable due to warm wet conditions. The road may be frozen during the morning and evening and could be soft in the afternoon.

DELINTMENT LAKE: trout

No recent angling report. The lake is covered with 6 inches ice in most locations. The lake received around 8 to 10 inches of snow on the ice last week. Ice thickness is variable and anglers should use caution.

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

The reservoir is closed to the retention of trout to protect native redband trout. Fishing has been slow for largemouth bass and fair to good for panfish (bluegill and yellow perch).
rainbow trout
Rainbow Trout
- Oregon Fish and Wildlife-

DUNCAN RESERVOIR: rainbow trout

This reservoir has good access through most of the year. Fishing for rainbow trout has been slow. Be prepared for wind and rapid weather changes.

FISH LAKE (Steens Mountain): rainbow trout

The gate is closed on Steens Mountain Loop. Ice fishing access is still available via snow mobile or snow cat. Contact Burns District BLM for information on the road access 541 573-4400.

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

Access to the lake is blocked by snow at Highway 140.

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

Access to lake is extremely difficult due to snow. Ice thickness is unknown.

HWY 203 POND: trout, bass, bluegill

The pond is iced over. Use caution when getting on ice.

JUNIPER LAKE: cutthroat trout

The lake was stocked with legal-sized cutthroat trout in April. Angler access is available from the East Steens Loop Road. A thin layer of ice covers the lake. Ice depth has not been measured, but does not appear over 4 inches, there is still open water in the center from wave action (Jan. 17). Cutthroat trout in the lake are up to 13-inches. The lake is privately owned on the west side; please be respectful of private property.

KLAMATH AND AGENCY LAKES: redband trout and yellow perch

Fishing for wild redband trout has been slow. Warmer than normal winter has created thin ice occasionally and open water depending on the particular day. Recent snows have made access to the lake extremely difficult. Be prepared for winter storms.

KLAMATH RIVER: native rainbow-redband trout

Winter storms have made access to the river difficult. Be prepared for snow and muddy roads.

KRUMBO RESERVOIR: trout and largemouth bass

The reservoir closed Oct. 31.
Lake of the Woods

Lake of the Woods

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

The ice on the lake is thin at this time. Recent snows have deposited new snow on top of the ice.

MALHEUR RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout

No recent angling reports. No recent report on ice coverage, the reservoir is probably ice covered. Ice thickness is variable and could be unsafe to walk on at this time, anglers should use caution. Recent inventory indicates overall numbers of trout are low. Inventory results indicate there are three sizes of trout available to the angler, the smallest between 8 and 12-inches, and the middle sized group from 12 to16-inches, with the largest sized group from 20 to 26-inches. The water level is about 12 to 15 feet below full pool and the boat ramp remains open.

MALHEUR RIVER (Warm Springs Reservoir downstream to South Fork Malheur River): redband trout and hatchery rainbow trout

Water releases from Warm Springs Reservoir have been shut off for the winter. Fishing the Riverside area is expected to be slow. Ice is forming on the pools and anglers should use caution.

MALHEUR RIVER (from the South Fork Malheur River near Riverside, downstream to Gold Creek): redband trout and hatchery rainbow trout.

Water releases from both dams have been shut off for the winter. Fishing the river is expected to be slow. Ice is forming on the pools and anglers should use caution.

MALHEUR RIVER, NORTH FORK: redband trout, whitefish, and bull trout

No recent angler reports. No recent road reports. Roads maybe blocked by snow limiting access. Streams flows are near normal. Bull trout redds have been dug by spawning fish, please avoid stream wading.

MALHEUR RIVER, MIDDLE FORK: redband trout, brook trout, and bull trout

No recent angler reports. No recent road reports. Roads maybe blocked by snow limiting access. Stream flows remain above normal. Bull trout redds have been dug by spawning fish, please avoid stream wading.

MANN LAKE: trout

No recent angling reports. A thin layer of ice covers the lake; there is open water from wave action near the middle. Ice depth has not been measured (Jan 17). The ice thickness is variable and anglers should use caution. The lake was netted in February and no goldfish were captured. The lake was re-stocked with trout on April 4 and is open to fishing. The lake has a 16-inch minimum length requirement and a 2 trout per day bag limit. Fish are approaching the 16-inch minimum.

MILLER LAKE: brown trout, kokanee, rainbow trout

Access to the lake is blocked by snow at Highway 97.

MOON RESERVOIR: bass, trout

No recent angling reports. Ice depth has not been measured, but appears to be 6” or greater (Jan. 2). The ice thickness is variable and anglers should use caution. Drill several holes from the shoreline while testing ice on the way to a fishing location.

MURRAY RESERVOIR: trout

The pond is iced over. Use caution when on ice.

rainbow trout on a stringer
Rainbow Trout on a stringer
- Photo by Bob Swingle, ODFW-

NORTH MALHEUR BLM STOCK PONDS: rainbow trout

Access to some of the north Malheur County ponds maybe limited by snow and or soft roads. Roads maybe frozen in the morning and evening and could be soft mid-day. No recent angler reports for the reservoirs in the area. Most of the ponds are probably ice covered. Ice thickness is variable and anglers should use caution.

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

Irrigation water releases have stopped for the year. The reservoir water level is 71 percent of full (Jan. 22). All boat ramps are open for use. Fishing for bass has slowed down as the fish move away from shore and into deeper water. Crappie fishing is slow. ODFW tagged about 300 crappies with reward tags. If you should catch a tagged crappie, record the tag number and approximate location fish was caught and report information to the phone number on the tag.

OWYHEE RIVER (Lower): brown trout and hatchery rainbow trout
Water releases below Owyhee Dam remain near normal (Jan. 22). Many of the large pools are ice covered. Ice thickness is variable. Fishing for rainbow and brown trout is slow. Anglers should avoid wading in areas with redds.

OWYHEE RIVER (Upper): smallmouth bass and channel catfish
Flows in the Owyhee River remain above normal, they averaged 493 cfs (Jan. 22). Fishing for smallmouth and channel catfish is slow.

PHILLIPS RESERVOIR: trout, perch

The reservoir has ice but there are varying thicknesses. Not recommended for ice fishing yet.

PILCHER RESERVOIR: trout, crappie

Closed Oct. 31 for the winter.

POLE CREEK RESERVOIR: hatchery rainbow trout

No recent angling reports. No recent reports on ice conditions. Most of the reservoir is probably ice covered. Ice thickness is variable and anglers should use caution.
Chinook Salmon
Spring Chinook
-Oregon Fish and Wildlife-

POWDER RIVER: trout, spring chinook

Catch-and-release for trout is allowed using flies and lures only from Hughes Lane Bridge in Baker City, upstream to Mason Dam. The remaining portions of the Powder River are closed.

SHERLOCK GULCH RESERVOIR: rainbow trout

Fishing for rainbow trout has been slow. Anglers are advised to be prepared for weather conditions that change quickly this time of year.

SOUTH MALHEUR BLM STOCK PONDS: rainbow trout

Access to some of the south Malheur County ponds maybe limited by snow and or soft roads. Open roads are frozen in the morning and evening and could be soft mid-day. No recent angler reports for the reservoirs in the area. Most of the ponds are probably ice covered. Ice thickness is variable and anglers should use caution.

THIEF VALLEY RESERVOIR: trout

Trout fishing has been good with 9 to 19-inch fish being common. The reservoir is ice covered except for a few small pockets of open water on the South side of the reservoir near the dam. Some have been ice fishing near the campground and doing well. Use caution as conditions can change rapidly.

UNITY RESERVOIR: trout, bass, crappie

Ice fishing for trout is very good.

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

No recent angling reports. No recent reports on ice conditions. Ice thickness is variable and anglers should use caution. The reservoir is 63 percent full (Jan. 22). Inflows remain above normal; they averaged 217 cfs (Jan. 22).

WARNER POND: rainbow trout

Access in the winter can be challenging.

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

Access to the lake is difficult due to snow depth. Ice thickness is unknown.

WOLF CREEK RESERVOIR: crappie, trout

The reservoir is ice covered except near the inlet but use caution as conditions can change.

YELLOWJACKET LAKE: trout

Ice fishing has been very good for anglers. Good numbers of fish are still being caught. The lake is covered in 6 inches to 9 inches of ice (Jan. 17). Anglers should still use caution as snow now covers the ice.

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HUNTING

OPEN: COUGAR, COYOTE, CHUKAR and QUAIL (close Jan. 31), and DUCK (Zone 2 closes Jan. 22, see regulations)

Hunter orange required for youth
Don’t forget: hunters age 17 and under must wear a fluorescent orange upper garment OR hat when hunting upland game birds (except turkey) and game mammals (deer, elk, bear, cougar, pronghorn, goat, sheep, western gray squirrel) with a firearm.

Wolf coyote identificationWolves and coyotes can look alike
Most wolves in the state today are in northeast Oregon but a few have dispersed further west and south. Wolves are protected by state and/or federal law and it is unlawful to shoot them. Coyote hunters need to take extra care to identify their target as wolves can look like coyotes, especially wolf pups in the mid-summer and fall. ODFW appreciates hunters’ assistance to establish wolves’ presence in Oregon; please report any wolf sightings or wolf sign to ODFW using the online reporting system.
Use the Oregon Hunting Mapto see where to hunt.

HARNEY COUNTY

Hunting maps for Harney County
http://www.co.harney.or.us/huntmaps.html

UPLAND bird seasons continue CHUKAR and CALIFORNIA QUAIL production was fair to good due to extensive rains in June. Many adults appear to have re-nested and it appears that second brood survival may have been successful. Overall chukar and quail populations are expected to be higher than the past two seasons, but still below the 10 year average. Hunters are reminded there is NO open season for Mountain Quail in Harney County. Chukar and quail season ends Jan. 31.

WATERFOWL hunting is extremely limited in Harney County due to frozen conditions forcing waterfowl to migrate south. Best hunting opportunities will be for Canada geese on private lands, hunters are reminded to get permission from the landowner before hunting on private lands. Hunters are reminded that duck season is now closed and goose season closes on January 29th. Hunters should be aware that the Saddle Butte Access to the refuge is currently closed due to high water conditions. Check out the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge website for detailed maps.

COUGAR hunting is open. Populations are healthy and distributed throughout the district in any area with a big game prey base. Successful hunters must check-in cougars no more than 10 days after harvest; please bring cougar in thawed and with mouth propped open for easier tissue sampling, teeth collection and tagging. Remember 2012 tag and hunting license needed.

COYOTES: Be aware that bobcats and cougars may respond to predator calls, and separate licensing and open season limitations exist for these species.

KLAMATH COUNTY

DUCK and GOOSE seasons are now closed in Klamath County. The late season for the Klamath County Zone will open on February 18 for white-fronted, snow, and Ross’ geese. Hunting is restricted to private lands and hunters are reminded to obtain permission prior to entering private lands.
California Quail

California (Valley) Quail
-Photo by David Bronson-

CALIFORNIA QUAIL and MOUNTAIN QUAIL hunting is open. Hunters are reminded that the mountain quail daily bag limit is 2 for Klamath County. Excellent production this year should provide great hunting opportunities. Quail seasons close on January 31st.

COUGAR hunting is open. Populations are healthy and distributed throughout the district in any area with a big game prey base. Deer and elk have moved down to lower elevation winter ranges. 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. Remember 2012 tag and hunting license needed as of Jan. 1.

COYOTE hunting should pick up over the next few months as deer migrate to lower elevation winter ranges. Hunters should always ask for permission before entering private ground. 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 hunting synopsis for further information.

KLAMATH WILDLIFE AREA

Furbearer trapping will take place Jan. 23-Feb. 29 throughout the wildlife area, to control burrowing furbearers and reduce damage to wildlife area water control infrastructure.

Gorr Island Unit
Gorr Island is located four miles south of the Miller Island Unit in the Klamath River, accessible only by boat. Gorr Island is open daily with no permit required during authorized seasons.

Shoalwater Bay Unit and Sesti Tgawaals Unit
Shoalwater Bay and Sesti Tgawaals are both located on the west side of Upper Klamath Lake approximately 10 miles to the north and west of Klamath Falls. Shoalwater Bay and Sesti Tgawaals Unit are both open for hunting daily with no permit required during authorized seasons.

Miller Island Unit
The Miller Island Unit is open to hunting on authorized hunt days (odd numbered days in January). Permits are required and all hunters must check in and out at the check station located on Miller Island Road near the railroad tracks. Hunting is allowed in all three subunits, all day on hunt days, on the Miller Island Unit with a self-service permit available at the check station. Federally approved non-toxic shot is required for all hunting.

Public use is restricted to the public roads and parking lots from February 1 to May 1 to minimize disturbance to migrating wildlife.

Water Levels on Miller Island Unit:
Most all of the ponds and wetlands are at normal levels with the exception of:
Unit B – South of the boat ramp
These units are dry to facilitate a habitat management process to reduce emergent vegetation and increase available open water. They may be re-flooded later during the hunting season.

Upland Habitat:
Upland habitat conditions are good. Heavy cover will make for challenging quail hunting. Upland game bird hunting does not open until 8:00 AM on hunt days.

Klamath Basin waterfowl numbers are available on the US Fish and Wildlife website at http://www.fws.gov/klamathbasinrefuges/cenfindex.html
Turkey Hunter
Dogs Sophie (on left) and Max and me on a bird hunting trip.
- Photo by Mary Hanson -

Running and training of dogs is allowed on the wildlife area except in safety zones.

Overnight camping is not allowed on the Miller Island Unit. Discharge of firearms is prohibited except by permit. If you have any questions, please contact Klamath Wildlife Area at (541) 883-5734 or lanny.a.fujishin@state.or.us.

LAKE COUNTY

CHUKAR and QUAIL seasons are open through 31 January. Hunters are reporting fewer birds then last year. These conditions were expected due to the reduced hatch last summer. Weather conditions have been very mild during December and the first 2 weeks of January, and access to all chukar habitat is very good. Most CALIFORNIA QUAIL occur on private land and hunters must get permission prior to hunting on private land.

DUCK season is closed. Goose season closes 29 January. Weather conditions through the end of the season are expected to be cold and stormy with several inches of snow accumulation. There are some flocks of resident Canada Geese using the perimeter of Lake Abert and public lands in the Warner Valley, however most hunting opportunities occur on private land.

COUGAR hunting is open. Populations are healthy due to good habitat and prey base. Cougar hunting opportunities improve as deer concentrate on winter ranges. Cold temperatures and very little snow through the month have allowed deer to stay scattered on transition and higher elevation winter ranges. If hunters can find a fresh cougar kill of any species, calling within ½ mile of the kill can be very effective. Remember 2012 tag and hunting license needed as of Jan. 1.

COYOTE numbers appear to be increasing throughout the county. Standard predator calls will be effective through mid-February.

SUMMER LAKE WILDLIFE AREA

This section was last updated January 23, 2012

Parking permits are now required on all vehicles. Hunters get the permit free with the purchase of their annual hunting license. More information

The fifteenth week of game bird hunting season was good for ducks, and fair for geese and quail. Hunter participation was down considerably (-29.9%) compared to the same week last year. Overall hunter success (birds per hunter or bph of 2.16 vs. 0.56 bph) was up dramatically from 2010.

Weather conditions for the beginning of the week were generally cold and calm, but changed to exceptionally windy and stormy conditions beginning mid-week and extending into the weekend. Open water conditions were prevelant by the weekend due to the strong winds and somewhat warm temperatures..

Hunter check-in totaled 66 and with 100% checkout the reported harvest was 134 birds (114 ducks, 18 geese and 2 California quail).
Mallard Drake
Mallard in flight
- Photo by Greg Gillson-

Duck harvest consisted of 83 mallards, 16 gadwall, 6 Am. wigeon, 3 N. pintail, 3 Am. green-winged teal, 2 ring-neck ducks and 1 goldeneye. The duck per hunter average of 1.84 was up over 6 times from 2010 when the duck per hunter average was 0.29.

Goose hunting was good and reported harvest was 16 Canada and 2 white-fronted geese. In 2010 a total of 14 Canada and 8 white-fronted geese were taken.

California quail harvest was up from last year (2 vs. 0 in 2010); pheasant season is closed.

The weekly bird count conducted on January 19th found just 2,396 ducks and 403 geese. Counting conditions were extremely poor due to strong winds that pushed birds into heavy cover where observation was difficult. The next count is scheduled for January 25th , 2012 and results will be posted on the department website and wildlife area’s telephone answering machine the following day.

Hunters are reminded that duck, coot and snipe seasons are now closed. Goose hunting will remain open through Sunday January 29th and quail season will close at the end of the month.

The prospect for the upcoming week remains fair for goose and quail hunting. Favorable weather conditions are forecasted for the first part of the week. Generally, conditions remain mostly mild which will result in geese spreading out across the entire area. Hunting will be difficult for the relatively low number of birds present. Quail hunting opportunities and habitat conditions remain good.

Pheasant season closed on December 31, 2011; California quail season remains open until the end of January.

Pass shooting from dikes continues to be very poor. Hunters utilizing decoys and willing to spend most of the day in the marsh are having fair to good success.

Nearly all wetland units are fully flooded and now, 90% of the standing water is open and ice-free.

Upland habitat conditions are excellent; the entire area is wide open and free of snow.

Hunters need to remember the Between the Dikes Habitat Management Unit (HMU) will remain dry the entire hunting season. A major portion of the HMU has been disked to reduce the density of tall emergent vegetation.

Federally approved non-toxic shot must be used for all game bird hunting.

Please contact Summer Lake Wildlife Area at (541) 943-3152 or email martin.j.stlouis@state.or.us for additional information.

MALHEUR COUNTY

STAY ON ROADS: The recent warm wet weather has made access to outlying areas difficult. Travel off unimproved roads is not recommended until this weather pattern changes.

COYOTE numbers appear to be increasing throughout the county. With mild winter conditions coyotes are dispersed but higher numbers have been observed near agricultural areas.

COUGAR hunting is open. 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 for easier tissue sampling, teeth collection and tagging. Check the regulations for restrictions on hunting with centerfire and muzzleloading rifles during deer and elk seasons. Remember 2012 tag and hunting license needed.

Overall it appears to be a good year for upland birds. An exceptionally wet winter and fewer summer thunderstorms seem to have benefitted most upland species. REMAINING SEASONS CLOSE JAN. 31.

CHUKAR surveys on established routes yielded 39.2 chukar per 10 miles and production of 11.9 chicks per brood. This is an increase from last year when 21.2 per 10 miles were measured but still below the 10-year average of 65.4 birds per 10 miles.
Wood Duck
Wood Duck Drake
- Photo by Dave Budeau-

The Succor Creek/Leslie Gulch area has only experienced limited recovery. It is likely that heavy rains during the nesting period impacted this area harder than some others. The poor range conditions caused by ongoing invasion of medusahead likely limits the ability of birds in this area to successfully raise broods. The most productive routes were Brogan Canyon, Cottonwood Mountain and Dry Creek (west side of the Owyhee Reservoir).
CALIFORNIA QUAIL hatch later than pheasants and chukar so they were able to benefit from good brood rearing conditions, which resulted from later spring rains. Good production was observed in both range lands and agricultural areas Surveys on established routes showed 45.4 quail per 10 miles up 41.4% from last year and 22.5% above the 10-year average. Production was 11.2 chicks per brood. Hunting prospects in the rangeland look good in the north half of the county. Hunting around the irrigated agricultural areas should be better than recent years.

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VIEWING
Bald Eagle

Bald Eagle
- Photo by Dave Budeau -

HARNEY COUNTY

Wintering raptors have returned to the area. You should be able to view golden eagles, bald eagles and a variety of hawks perching on telephone poles and fence posts throughout the district. Resident raptors such as northern harriers and red-tailed hawks are very easily observed in open agricultural areas.

As the winter season progresses, look for deer, elk, and antelope to remain active for longer periods of the day. Deer and elk are still scattered throughout their ranges due to mild weather this winter. Some Mule deer can still be found in foothill areas around the basin.

Many of the bighorn sheep will be using lower elevation slopes and can often be seen from the highways. Bighorn sheep may be seen from highway 205 along Catlow Valley or along the East Steens Road.

Winter recreation opportunities on Steens Mt. are very limited due to the very little snow fall received so far this winter. 12/20/11.

KLAMATH COUNTY

EVENT

The Winter Wings Festival will be held Feb. 17 – 19, 2012. Check their website for details at their website, Winter Wings Festival, http://winterwingsfest.org/

Klamath Falls Area

Bald Eagles remain in the area, though they are primarily concentrated around winter roost locations such as within the Bear Valley National Wildlife Refuge. Contact the Lower Klamath National Wildlife Refuge for details. Other locations to view bald eagles include Lake Ewauna, Yonna Valley, Sprague River Valley, and Langell Valley.

Other raptor species that winter in the Klamath Basin include rough legged hawks, which can be seen around agricultural areas hunting for rodents. Rough legged hawks appear in some ways similar to red tail hawks, though a quality bird book will help in identifying key morphological differences. These winter visitors will head north again in the spring, but offer a unique raptor sighting opportunity for the next few months.

Waterfowl migration has largely passed beyond the Klamath Basin for the year as most waterfowl species have moved further south. Lake Ewauna and Link River offer excellent viewing opportunities for diving ducks including common goldeneye and bufflehead.

Big game fall migrations are concluded and big game species have generally arrived on winter ranges, though recent high-pressure systems have reduced precipitation and allowed many animals to stay at higher elevations where air inversions keep temperatures warmer at high elevations and cold air is kept on valley floors. Mule deer and elk congregate on winter ranges from December to April and can be observed in large numbers in specific locations. Interested viewers will start to see deer in the Bly area now and through the winter months as precipitation increases and temperatures fall, as well as the western slopes of Stukel Mt. and Bryant Mt. 1/17/12.

Klamath Wildlife Area

The Klamath Wildlife Area is open to hunting; upland bird seasons are open now. Hunt days are odd-numbered days in January. Expect to see a few hunters in the field on these hunt days. Public use is restricted to the public roads and parking lots from February 1 to May 1 to minimize disturbance to migrating wildlife.

A regulated furbearer trapping program will be underway from January 23 – February 29, 2012 on the Klamath Wildlife Area. This program assists in managing burrowing furbearer populations to reduce impacts on the wildlife area water control infrastructure.

The dog training area is open for use daily and is located near the boat ramp at the Klamath River. Dog training is allowed on the wildlife area at this time in areas other than in Safety Zones.

Overnight camping is not allowed on the Miller Island Unit. Discharge of firearms is prohibited except by permit. If you have any questions, please contact Klamath Wildlife Area at (541) 883-5734 or lanny.a.fujishin@state.or.us. 1/24/12

LAKE COUNTY

The primary wildlife viewing opportunities are for mule deer, which are starting to concentrate on winter ranges; winter raptors such as rough-legged hawks and bald eagles; and winter passerines. Due to its alkalinity Lake Abert is the only major water body in the county with open water. Most of the Warner Valley lakes are frozen over in the morning with variable amounts of open water by mid-afternoon. 1/3/12.
Summer Lake Clouds

Storm Clouds at Summer Lake
- Photo by Dave Budeau -

SUMMER LAKE WILDLIFE AREA
This section was updated on January 23, 2012.

As of Jan. 1, 2012, five ODFW Wildlife Areas require a $7 daily parking permit or a $22 annual parking permit.

Vehicle access to the Wildlife Viewing Loop along with the major dike roads (Bullgate, Windbreak and Work Road) are now closed to motor vehicle traffic and will remain closed through Sunday January 29, 2012.

Winter is in full effect right now, however early northward migrants may be appearing soon. If harsh weather conditions occur, additional late migrants, especially Canada geese and mallards will appear from surrounding areas.

Waterfowl and game bird hunting seasons are in progress and viewing opportunities are limited. The Wildlife Viewing platform at Schoolhouse Lake Refuge provides an excellent opportunity to view refuging and staging waterbirds.

Waterfowl

Duck numbers have declined to winter levels, about 3,500 birds.

Canada geese have dispersed to private lands and surrounding areas where disturbance is minimal. About 800 are present in Summer Lake Valley.

Tundra swans have peaked and are declining to their relatively low wintering level of 500 to 1,000 birds.

Wintering trumpeter swans remain conspicuous. Several family groups and sub adults continue to be observed.

A few non-breeding trumpeters, part of restoration efforts, are scattered across the area. All of these birds 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 (Ө) and two side-ways laying numerals that are read from the body toward the head.

Shorebirds, waders and other waterbirds

Very few lingering migrant shorebirds remain; only killdeer and Wilson’s snipe have been observed recently.

American bittern, black-crowned night-heron and great blue heron are present in very low numbers; other species of waders have migrated out of the area.

Virginia rails continue to be infrequently heard and/or seen, a few will remain here through winter.
Red-tailed Hawk
Red-tailed Hawk
- Photo by Kathy Munsel, ODFW-

Raptors and Others

Resident raptors are scattered throughout the Wildlife Area as well as on private lands along Hwy 31. Northern harriers are commonly observed over marsh and hay meadows. Bald eagles have been observed occasionally across the wildlife area, most noticeably along the Ana River at the River Ranch and at Schoolhouse Lake.

Red-tailed and sometimes ferruginous hawks can sometimes be observed foraging for small rodents across the entire area. A few migrant and wintering rough-legged hawks have been observed recently.

Prairie falcons are fairly common residents of the area and golden eagles are sometimes seen during this time of the year

Great-horned owls can be found scattered across the area. The River Ranch barn affords good opportunities for viewing as the structure serves as a daytime roost site.

Upland game birds

California quail and ring-necked pheasants are widely scattered across the wildlife area and some good-sized coveys have been observed. Since the start of hunting season, most are in heavy cover now and are difficult to see.

Passerines

Eurasian collared doves remain numerous at Headquarters Complex.

Wintering passerine species are still fairly active at Headquarters and other tree and shrub/orchard areas, although many species have migrated out of the area.

Marsh wrens and song sparrows can still be found in low numbers in dense stands of tall emergent hardstem bulrush and broad-leaved cattail at this time, blackbirds have migrated south.

Facilities and Access

The Wildlife Viewing Loop and major dike roads (Bullgate, Windbreak and Work Road) are closed through the end of waterfowl hunting season on January 29, 2012. Vehicles can be driven to the major campground and the Turner Road remains open until that date.

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

All wetlands are fully flooded at this time and about 90% of the open water is ice free.

Between the Dikes HMU is being held dry at this time to facilitate rehabilitation efforts. A major portion of the HMU has been disked to reduce the density of tall emergent vegetation.

Upland habitat remains in excellent condition with considerable residual vegetation that is providing high quality food and cover for many wildlife species. Planted tree and shrub plots have set berries and fruit and are providing excellent foraging as well as sheltered sites for many wildlife species. The entire area is snow-free at this time.

Please contact Summer Lake Wildlife Area at (541) 943-3152 or e-mail martin.j.stlouis@state.or.us for additional information.