Getting There: From Hwy 26 west of Portland, follow Hwy 53 south to the North Fork Hatchery at Milepost 8.

Fisheries: Wild fall chinook reach the hatchery from August through November. Immature chinook (called jacks) enter in September and October. Fin-clipped hatchery coho appear in early November, followed by fin-clipped hatchery steelhead in late November and wild steelhead (catch and release only) from January into early March. Hatchery spring chinook are available for harvest from late April through July.

Useful Information: There are about 300 yards of riverbank below the hatchery intake and another 100 yards above it. There is room for about 50 anglers. Arrive early to secure a spot. Use standard river fishing techniques.

Tackle & Techniques: When river banks are crowded, adopt the technique being used by adjacent anglers and synchronize your casts (downstream angler casts first). Allow about 10 feet between anglers.

Facilities: Wheelchair-accessible fishing platform and restroom.

Fees: None.

Additional activities: Guided raft trips, hiking, mountain biking (on riverside road above hatchery, closed to motor vehicles); camping, bicycle trails, horse camp at Nehalem Bay State Park; supplies and services in Manzanita. Nearby state parks: Saddle Mountain State Natural Area, Nehalem Bay State Park.

For More Information:
ODFW North Coast Watershed District Office – (503) 842-2741