|
FISHING
 |
Spring Chinook Salmon
-Photo courtesy Dr. Tom Danelski- |
Weekend fishing opportunities:
- Trout fishing continues to be good on Big Lava, Crane Prairie, Odell and North and South Twin lakes.
- Fishing for trout and kokanee at Haystack Reservoir has been excellent while Ochoco Reservoir has been turning out 18-inch rainbows.
- South Twin lake has been chosen as a venue for Cabela’s “Fish for Milions” promotion, which begans Saturday, May 4 and continues through July 7. Rainbow trout have been tagged with spaghetti tags that could be worth up to $2 million to the angler lucky enough to catch one. For more information and to register.
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.
ANTELOPE FLAT RESERVOIR: trout
The roads leading to the reservoir are clear. Fishing has been fair due to the turbidity but anglers are reporting catching large trout.
BEND PINE NURSERY POND: trout
The pond has been stocked and fishing is good.
BIG LAVA LAKE: rainbow trout
The lake is accessible and fishing has been good.
BIKINI POND: rainbow trout
ODFW is hosting a youth fishing event at Bikini Pond on May 4 from 8:30 am – 1:00 pm. Contact the ODFW The Dalles office at 541-296-4628 for more information.
The pond has been stocked this spring and should provide bank anglers with good spring fishing opportunity.
CLEAR LAKE RESERVOIR: rainbow trout
Snow will limit access.
 |
An 8 lb. + Rainbow from Crane Prairie
- Photo provided by Derek Butts- |
CRANE PRAIRIE RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, brook trout, kokanee, largemouth bass
Anglers are catching large brook trout, kokanee and rainbows.
CRESCENT LAKE: rainbow trout, brown trout, lake trout and kokanee
Opportunities for rainbow and brown trout are good.
CROOKED RIVER BELOW BOWMAN DAM: redband trout and mountain whitefish
Fishing will probably be slow with the current flow conditions. Fishing will be better once the flows are lower and stable during the irrigation season. The trout may be spawning now so anglers are reminded to be careful if wading so as to not trample the redds. The use of bait is prohibited until May 2013. Trout over 20 inches are considered steelhead and must be released unharmed.
Flows below Bowman Dam.
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 with the tag intact after recording the tag color and 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
Anglers are catching trout near the mouth of Odell Creek.
DESCHUTES RIVER: steelhead, redband trout
Mouth to the Pelton Regulating Dam: steelhead, redband trout, whitefish
Good to excellent reports of trout fishing from the Deschutes above Maupin were reported. Best trout fishing typically occurs around midday, as the best light reaches the canyon floor. Fly anglers will find best success with mayfly and caddis patterns, and the famous Deschutes salmonfly hatch should be starting in the near future.
Anglers are reminded that Deschutes is currently closed to the retention of spring chinook. 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_Dalles/fish_tag_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_counts/sherars_falls/index.asp. The Sherars Falls trap went offline for the season Nov. 2.
Lake Billy Chinook to Bend: rainbow trout, brown trout
Flows have increased with the end of irrigation season. This will make the river more difficult to wade but often triggers trout to feed more heavily and seek out new territories. 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. Remains open year round; however, gear is restricted to artificial flies and lures only.
EAST LAKE: rainbow trout, brown trout, Atlantic salmon, kokanee
Not accessible as of May 7.
FALL RIVER: rainbow trout
The river above the falls is open all year; the river below the falls opens May 25. Fishing is restricted to fly fishing only with barbless hooks.
FROG LAKE: rainbow trout
Snow will limit access.
HAYSTACK RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, brown trout, kokanee
Fishing has been excellent for large trout and kokanee.
 |
Winter steelhead!
- Oregon Fish and Wildlife- |
HOOD RIVER: summer steelhead, winter steelhead, spring chinook
Anglers are catching good numbers of winter steelhead, as the run peaks in the river in the next few weeks. Anglers are reporting the best success on bait, but spinners and other artificial baits are also effective. Few spring chinook have been caught recently, but recent numbers over Bonneville have substantially improved and catch in the Hood River should improve.
Spring chinook season opened on the Hood River on April 15, 2013 and will remain open until June 30, 2013. Anglers may retain two adipose fin clipped adult chinook and five fin clipped jack Chinook.
HOSMER LAKE: Atlantic salmon, brook trout, rainbow trout
Inaccessible due to snow.
LAKE BILLY CHINOOK: bull trout, brown trout, rainbow trout, kokanee, smallmouth bass
Fishing for bull trout has been good. Catch rates are up compared to this time last year. The Metolius Arm is open to fishing again and there are good numbers of legal-sized bull trout. A tribal angling permit is required in the Metolius Arm. Please check the special regulations for this area.
Anglers are reminded there are small numbers of spring chinook and summer steelhead in Lake Billy Chinook as part of the reintroduction effort. Please release these fish unharmed.
LITTLE LAVA LAKE: rainbow trout, brook trout
No recent reports.
LOST LAKE: rainbow trout, brown trout
Inaccessible due to snow. Anglers should check with the USFS Hood River Ranger Station for 541-352-6002 concerning access.
METOLIUS RIVER: redband trout, bull trout
Trout fishing has been good. Insect hatches should offer lots of opportunities for good dry fly fishing. Angling for post spawning bull trout should be excellent. Large streamer flies fished in the deeper pools and slots are the best bet.
The mainstem above the Allingham Bridge closed to fishing Oct. 31.
NORTH TWIN: rainbow trout
Fishing is good.
OCHOCO CREEK UPSTREAM TO OCHOCO DAM: rainbow trout
Fishing for trout has been good for trout averaging 8 to 10 inches.
Angling is restricted to artificial flies and lures only; two trout per day with an 8-inch minimum length. Trout over 20 inches are considered steelhead and must be released unharmed.
OCHOCO RESERVOIR: rainbow trout
Fishing for trout has been good. Anglers are reporting trout up to 18 inches long.
ODELL LAKE: kokanee, lake trout, rainbow trout
Anglers are reporting large catches of kokanee.
PAULINA LAKE: brown trout, rainbow trout, kokanee
Should be acccessible May 10.
PINE HOLLOW RESERVOIR: rainbow trout
The reservoir has been stocked and should offer anglers a great chance to catch recently stocked legal and brood size rainbow trout.
PRINEVILLE RESERVOIR: rainbow trout and largemouth bass
Fishing has been slow but the trout that were caught were large.
PRINEVILLE YOUTH FISHING POND: rainbow trout and largemouth bass
No recent reports but the trout are active.
ROCK CREEK RESERVOIR: rainbow trout
The reservoir has been stocked and should offer anglers a great chance to catch recently stocked legal and brood size rainbow trout.
SHEVLIN YOUTH FISHING POND: rainbow trout
Shevlin Pond is fishing well.
 |
Twin Lakes, Baker County
- Photo by Nick Myatt-
|
SOUTH TWIN LAKE: Rainbow trout
Fishing continues to be excellent.
SUTTLE LAKE: brown trout, kokanee
No recent reports
TAYLOR LAKE: rainbow trout and largemouth bass
Taylor Lake has been recently stocked, and has provided consistent catches of rainbow trout.
WALTON LAKE: rainbow trout
No recent reports.
WICKIUP RESERVOIR: rainbow trout, brown trout, kokanee, largemouth bass.
Fishing season opened April 27. No recent reports.
HUNTING
 |
Cougar
- Royalty Free Image- |
OPEN: COUGAR, COYOTE. SPRING BEAR, SPRING TURKEY
Spring turkey hunting forecast
Spring bear hunting forecast
Controlled hunt deadline is May 15: Apply online, at a license sales agent, at ODFW offices that sell licenses, or by mail or fax order using the application found here. Read about common controlled hunt misconceptions.
Mandatory Reporting
Thanks to all hunters who reported their 2012 tags on time. Hunters who did not report 2012 deer and elk tags on time will pay a $25 penalty fee when they purchase a 2014 hunting license. If your 2012 deer and elk hunts extend into 2013, you have until April 15, 2013 to report your hunt. More information on reporting http://www.dfw.state.or.us/resources/hunting/reporting/index.asp
Wolves and coyotes can look alike
Most wolves in the state today are in northeast Oregon but a few have dispersed further west and south. Wolves are protected by state and/or federal law and it is unlawful to shoot them. Coyote hunters need to take extra care to identify their target as wolves can look like coyotes, especially wolf pups in the mid-summer and fall. ODFW appreciates hunters’ assistance to establish wolves’ presence in Oregon; please report any wolf sightings or wolf sign to ODFW using the online reporting system.
Use the Oregon Hunting Map to see where to hunt.
PRINEVILLE/OCHOCO WILDLIFE DISTRICT
TURKEY: Turkeys may be found from lower elevation private lands all the way up to higher elevation public lands due to the mild winter and spring conditions. Best hunting opportunities, however, will be on the Ochoco National Forest along the South Boundary.
COUGAR are present throughout the Maury, Ochoco, and Grizzly units.The Maury and Ochoco units are recommended because of their greater amounts of public lands and better accessibility. Remember cougars must be checked in at an ODFW office within 10 days of harvest. Please consult the synopsis for all required parts and be sure to call first to make an appointment.
COYOTES offer an exciting challenge and will be closely associated with deer and antelope. 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.
GROUND SQUIRRELS have emerged and are active in agricultural fields throughout Crook and Jefferson counties. Higher numbers are in Crook County on private lands along the Crooked River between Prineville and Paulina. Permission from landowners is necessary to access and hunt these lands.
THE DALLES WILDLIFE DISTRICT
Bear- Bear season opened April 1 for spring bear tag holders in the Hood and White River WMUs. Spring bears often prefer foraging on new grasses and forb growth. Bring a good pair of binoculars or spotting scope and glass open south facing hillsides. Predator calling can be productive, particularly if you know a bear is using an area. Successful hunters will need to check in with an ODFW office within 10 days of harvesting your bear. The bear head must be unfrozen, and propping the mouth open with an object will help biologists to remove the tooth necessary for aging.
 |
Wild Turkey
- National Wild Turkey Federation- |
Turkey - Spring turkey season began April 15. Turkeys typically are found in lower elevations in the Hood and White River WMUs. The White River Wildlife Area is a popular destination for those wishing to hunt turkeys as well as USFS property adjacent to the wildlife area. The Hood River County Forestry land can provide some hunting opportunities in the Hood Unit as well as private timberlands. Be sure to gain permission prior to your hunt. Spring turkey tag holders will need to report if they harvested a turkey or not.
WHITE RIVER WILDLIFE AREA
Vehicle Access: Most gates through the Wildlife Area closed Dec. 1 and will remain closed until April 1, 2013. As of January 1, 2013 new rules took effect that prohibit all recreational ATV use on the Wildlife Area, also camping is only allowed in designated camping areas.
A parking permit is now required to use/park on the White River Wildlife Area along with other ODFW wildlife areas.
Bear – Controlled Spring Black Bear Season opened on April 1 and runs through May 31. Black bear can be found throughout WRWA but are very elusive and hard to find. Search for tracks on dirt or muddy roads to find areas that they are using. Look for food sources. Bears spend much of their time filling up on grasses, acorns, and other food to fatten up after their winter slumber. Remember to check in any harvested bear skulls at an ODFW office. It is best to make an appointment before you take it in.
Turkey – Spring Turkey Season runs through May 31. Turkeys inhabit most of WRWA lands. Use locating calls to find birds roosting in your area. Turkeys can often be found along ridge tops or foraging for food in meadows or oak groves. Be careful and aware that other hunters could possibly be hunting the same turkey that you are after.
Cougar - 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 along rim rocks and canyons. Look for fresh tracks or kills to increase success. Deer are down on the Wildlife Area for the winter so it is a good area to look for cougars.
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.
VIEWING
Crook County
The Prineville Reservoir Wildlife Management Area (WMA) North shore road is now open to motorized traffic. The WMA offers camping, shoreline angling and opportunities to see a wide variety of wildlife, including deer, coyotes, otter, beaver, raptors, shorebirds and waterfowl. Maps of the wildlife area are available at the Prineville ODFW office and at Prineville Reservoir State Park office.
 |
Green-winged Teal in breeding plumage
- Photo by Greg Gillson- |
Waterfowl can be found in decent numbers throughout Crook County, but especially along the Crooked River and Prineville Reservoir. Species that can be seen include mallard, pintail, gadwall, American wigeon, shoveler, green-winged teal, cinnamon teal, bufflehead, ring-necked duck, lesser scaup, wood duck and Canada geese. Canada Goose broods have been seen and can be found throughout Crook County.
Shorebird migration has just started and a few that have been seen include American avocets, black-necked stilts and killdeer. Common loons, grebes and a variety of gull species can also be seen around Prineville reservoir.
Spring passerine migrants should be increasing in diversity and number as the season progresses. Red-winged and brewers blackbirds, white-crowned sparrows, American and lesser goldfinches, mountain bluebirds and tree, cliff and rough-winged swallows are a few that can be seen.
Raptors can be found throughout the area. Red-tailed, rough-legged and ferruginous hawks, northern harriers, kestrels, prairie falcons and golden eagles can be found throughout Crook county and are usually associated more closely with open/agricultural areas. Bald eagles and osprey can be found associated with water bodies.
The recent warming trend and increased daylight hours has promoted some significant green up on winter ranges. Mule deer can be found in lower elevations around the county. 4/29/13.
Deschutes County
Weather conditions in the high desert are unpredictable at this time of year. Nighttime temperatures can dip below freezing and it’s not unusual to experience the occasional snow squall during the day. However, nice days and warmer conditions are also on the menu, and that encourages reptiles to venture out from their rocky winter residence. A good way to tell if it’s warm enough for reptile activity is to touch the rocks. If they feel warm, you can expect to see lizards around rock piles and snakes around ponds and wetlands, where you are also likely to see small packets of Pacific tree frog eggs deposited in the shallow vegetated areas. Wickiup Reservoir is a good place to see bald eagles, common loon, horned grebe, and tree swallows. Both bald and golden eagles can be seen at Smith Rock State Park in north east Deschutes County, and one of their potential food sources, yellow-bellied marmots, can also be seen on warm sunny days. Bird watching is not just limited to wild places, as residents and visitors to Bend can watch an osprey pair nesting adjacent to the Parkway that runs through Bend. Sandhill cranes have been spotted in a meadow near Sisters and at the Ryan Ranch area along the Deschutes River; above Dillon Falls. And Vaux’s swifts can be seen flying over the former Bend library at 507 NW Wall St., and disappearing into the chimney at dusk.
Scan the skies for a glimpse of large birds with a “V” shaped wing pattern and you are likely to be looking at turkey vultures. Northern pintails, mallards, common mergansers, great blue herons and many other wetland bird species can be found throughout the county, and Steller's jays, white-headed woodpeckers, junco’s, several sparrow species, ravens, spotted towhees, hairy woodpeckers, cedar waxwings and red-cross bills are just a few of the species that can be found in the Deschutes National Forest and BLM-managed lands.
Good sites to look for birds include forest edges surrounding meadows and wetland areas. Those with patience and stealth may be rewarded by the call and possible sighting of a Virginia rail moving through thickets of cattails. 5/06/13.
 |
Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep Ewe
-Oregon Fish and Wildlife- |
Wasco and Sherman counties
The Lower Deschutes River provides ample wildlife viewing opportunities. California Bighorn Sheep are frequently observed in the canyon and can provide fantastic viewing this time of year. The best spot to view sheep is from the BLM access road just downstream and across the river from Sherar’s Falls (along Hwy 216).
Other wildlife that may be seen along the river include black-taildeer, red-tailed hawks, American kestrels, Osprey, and Golden and Bald eagles. Waterfowl are commonly observed on the river, and visitors can usually see many different songbirds and upland game birds that also call the canyon home. 3/19/13.
| 
