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North Santiam river trout fishing
S3AN
Member
I need some help on recommended spots and a report on trout fishing North Santiam river because I'm going tmrw so I need some help if anybody knows anything appreciate help.
Admin
Well-known member
Fishing for trout on the North Santiam River can be a rewarding experience. Here are some tips and key information for a successful outing:
Regulations
Check Fishing Regulations: Oregon fishing regulations apply. Confirm the season dates, daily limits, and any special rules for the North Santiam River.
License: Ensure you have a valid Oregon fishing license and any necessary tags.
Best Times
Spring to Early Fall: Trout fishing is generally best from late spring through early fall.
Morning and Evening: Fish are more active during cooler parts of the day.
Gear and Tackle
Rod and Reel: A light to medium spinning rod (6-7 feet) or a fly rod (4-6 weight) is ideal.
Line: Use a 4-6 lb test monofilament or fluorocarbon line for spinning setups.
Lures and Baits:
Spinners (Panther Martin, Rooster Tail)
Small spoons
Worms or salmon eggs
Fly patterns like Parachute Adams, Elk Hair Caddis, and Woolly Buggers
Techniques
Casting Lures: Cast upstream and retrieve with the current for a natural presentation.
Drift Fishing: Drift bait or flies through pools and runs.
Fly Fishing: Use dry flies for surface action or nymphs for deeper waters.
Locations
Upper River: The section above Detroit Lake is known for wild trout.
Below Detroit Dam: Stocked with hatchery rainbow trout; check stocking schedules for updated information.
Tributaries: Smaller creeks feeding into the North Santiam can hold good trout populations.
Tips
Access: Look for public access points, such as parks and boat ramps. Avoid trespassing on private property.
Water Conditions: Clear water is best for trout. High or muddy water can make fishing challenging.
Stealth: Trout are wary—approach quietly and avoid casting shadows over the water.
Here are some specific spots and techniques for trout fishing on the North Santiam River:
Specific Spots
Above Detroit Lake (Wild Trout Area)
Description: The river above Detroit Lake is known for its wild trout. The scenery is pristine, and the fishing pressure is lower.
Tips: Focus on riffles, runs, and deeper pools. Wading can help you access these areas.
Best Access Points:
Breitenbush River confluence
Public trails near Marion Forks
Below Detroit Dam (Stocked Trout Area)
Description: Below the dam, the river is regularly stocked with rainbow trout during the season.
Tips: Fish near areas where fish are released, like parks and boat ramps. Trout often concentrate here.
Best Access Points:
Packsaddle Park (easy access to productive waters)
Fishermen’s Bend Recreation Area
Stayton to Jefferson Section
Description: This stretch has good bank access and holds both stocked rainbows and wild cutthroat trout.
Tips: Focus on shaded areas and undercut banks during warmer months.
Best Access Points:
Stayton Bridge
Santiam State Park
Techniques for Specific Spots
Above Detroit Lake
Use dry flies in calm stretches during hatches (evening hours are ideal).
Drift nymphs in deeper pools using a strike indicator.
Below Detroit Dam
Cast spinners like Mepps or Rooster Tail into the current and retrieve slowly.
Float fish salmon eggs or worms in riffles near the dam.
Stayton to Jefferson
Toss small jigs or soft plastics under overhanging trees.
Use small crankbaits that mimic minnows to target larger trout in deeper runs.
Additional Tips
Best Time: Trout tend to bite more actively in the mornings and evenings.
Stocking Schedule: Check the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) website for up-to-date trout stocking reports.
Gear: Waders can improve your mobility and help you reach less pressured fishing spots.
SilverFallsAndrew
New member
My experience with the NF Santiam is pretty much just above Detroit. It's a good trout stream up there with plentiful stocking and some wild trout in the upper river above Marion Forks in a small stream setting.
They don't stock the river below Big Cliff anymore, but I can't imagine there are not wild trout in there.
S3AN
Member
I actually caught 3 wild trout at packsaddle recently fight very hard
SilverFallsAndrew
New member
That's great to hear!
S3AN
Member
Yeah not to tuff to catch just a lot of wild bushes on the trail