Oregon fishing updates 2022

The Guides Forecast · Jan 29, 2022

Low Water Hampers Steelhead Success

Portland/Metro Fishing Report – With the Willamette falling and in good color, interest is already brewing for a January spring Chinook. Although there’s been two confirmed spring Chinook from the Clackamas River, none have been confirmed from the Willamette as of this writing. That will likely change by the first or second week of February.

Columbia River anglers have a ways to go before good catches of spring Chinook happen there. Meanwhile, sturgeon catches have been good enough in the Bonneville Pool to warrant a closure following Saturday’s effort. The Dalles and John Day Pools will remain open under their respective regulations.

Steelhead are starting to show in better numbers on the Clackamas River. Water conditions for this weekend look promising, consider a later start when air and water temperatures improve.

Avid angler Jeff Stoeger reports, “”Hello All. The hatchery has received 251 hatchery fish and recycled 155 fish back into the river at Lewis and Clark Park. All these recycled hatchery fish will have their right gill plate hole punched. There are good numbers of fish in the entire river, from the hatchery all the way down to the mouth.

A more robust trout stocking schedule lies just ahead. Go to the stocking page to see what opportunities lie ahead in the coming weeks.

Find the full report and forecast for Members on the Sandy and the Clackamas from this page here.

North Coast Fishing Report – Steelhead anglers on the north coast have been challenged by low, clear water conditions, just as we enter peak steelhead season. A weather change would be most welcome, there’s a lot more steelhead to come.

The Wilson and Nestucca systems will remain prime targets for those seeking a take-home option for broodstock (hatchery) steelhead) but other larger systems, such as the Nehalem and Siletz are fishing decent for wild steelhead, with little other competition on most days.

Smaller, early season streams are very low and clear, harboring spawned out steelhead for the most part. These systems, such as the NF Nehalem, Necanicum and Highway 30 systems will provide sporting biters, just poor table fare for the most part.

Estuary crabbing remains fair with a calm ocean providing the best opportunities for sport crabbers. An east wind influence has finally provided a window of opportunity for bottomfishers to take advantage of.

A great set of razor clam tides will grace north coast beaches this weekend. A calm surf will contribute to robust digs.

See the full report and forecast for Members right here.

steelhead the size of a chinook
Eastern Oregon Fishing Reports – Contributor Glenn Zinkus reports:
(Glenn will be providing fresh reports every OTHER week through the winter season.)

Weather Outlook Across Central and Eastern Oregon:

Dry weather and daytime temperatures near or above normal continue through Saturday. Temperatures will be in the 40s along the forested spring creeks and the lower Deschutes, and climb into the 40s until Saturday. Night-time temperatures will be in the 20s through much of the region.

Rain and mixed precipitation will return to the region starting on Sunday and through the first few days of next week. Maupin and areas of the high desert around the Lower Deschutes look to remain dry.

EASTERN/SOUTHEASTERN OREGON WATERS

Ana Reservoir: Fishing on Ana Reservoir remains steady for legal and trophy size trout, but will slow down with colder temperatures. Trout will go for slowly stripped leeches and streamer patterns.

Trolling lures and flies, and bait are taking fish.

Blitzen River: No new reports. Latest water temperatures are in and around 32 degrees, meaning the trout will go to the bottom and get lethargic. The banks will begin icing over if not already. Flows remain low in the 30 to 32 CFS range.

If fishing there, it will be a nymphing game: PTs, Euro nymph style flies.

Lofton Reservoir: Likely iced over for the season.

Chewaucan River: Cold water and starting to ice over for the winter.

Krumbo Reservoir: Fishing well in November. No new December reports, but colder weather may start icing the reservoir over.

Sprague River: Closed for the season. North Fork public lands are inaccessible from last summer’s Bootleg fire.

Williamson River: Closed for the season.

Check out Glenn’s detailed report with much more information and forecast in this week’s Member’s version.

SW Oregon Fishing Report – Contributor Jeff Rome reports

After some great days of winter steelhead fishing following the last big rain event, most if not all rivers and streams are low, clear and cold. The bite has certainly dropped off even though there are decent numbers of fish. A “pray for rain” chant is back in the air to help spur some much needed rain.

I took a buddy out on the 2022 inaugural drift boat float from Chinook park to Schroeder park last Saturday with some high expectations of catching some winter chrome on 3 new “fish catchin” fancy plugs that came recommended by a local guide….. we beat the river to a froth in every stretch and seam with no action. We finally got 2 1/2 pounders (hatchery) on worms n corky side drifting. Some days it’s lots of action while other days it just a boat ride

Winter steelhead action on the lower and mid Rogue has been slow as the river is getting pretty low. Nightly temps this week into the mid 20’s have kept the river around a chilly 40 degrees. You’ve got to get your presentation (of any kind) right in front of the fish’s nose to hopefully cause a bite. Small baits and longer leaders help to not spook fish.

The Chetco has reported good numbers of fish in the river but low water is making it tough on drift boaters making their way through some of the skinny sections.

The smaller rivers and streams such as the Elk, Sixes, Coos, Millicoma, N. Umpqua and Coquille are way low and clear to make an effort to fish right now.

The main Umpqua has been producing some steelhead and since there are several tributaries dumping in, the flow is lower but still fishable. The South Umpqua has been seeing some nice fish caught but is getting skinny too. Check where the guides are working!

Jeff’s detailed report, multiple lake updates, and forecast in this week’s version for Members!

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reports in your email on Thursday nights by signing up here.

Find out more about becoming an Oregon Member here!

The Guides Forecast · Feb 6, 2022

Portland/Metro Fishing Report – The Willamette is in ideal shape for salmon, steelhead fishing and sturgeon and weekend weather looks good for anglers so motivated to try their luck, despite it not being peak season, except maybe for steelhead. Counts at Willamette Falls steadied, but upper Willamette steelhead should also pop over the next 6 weeks. The run is tracking higher than most years, certainly a good sign.

Mainstem Columbia Chinook have yet to show, but that will change soon, when more Willamette bound springers start to show downstream of St. Helens.

Avid angler Jeff Stoeger reports, “Hello All. Fishing has been good in certain stretches of the river. Dodge Park to Oxbow Park has produced good catches of hatchery fish with few limits of three fish.

Overall, the Clackamas has witnessed a slow week, but it is due to pop this month. Numbers should build and water conditions remain favorable well into next week.

A more robust trout stocking schedule lies just ahead. Go to the stocking page to see what opportunities lie ahead in the coming weeks.

Find the full report and forecast for Members on the Sandy and the Clackamas from this page here.

In this TGF 101 course!

Beginner anglers will learn:

Week 1 Tuesday, February 15th, 2022

What species of fish can I catch in our waters?
What gear do I need to catch these fish?
How to know where to go; public access
Proper Fish ID

Week 2 Tuesday, February 22nd, 2022

Interpreting regulations
Trout opportunities and how to maximize my success
Run timing for salmon and steelhead

Week 3 Tuesday, March 1st, 2022

Rod and reel selection for the species I’m targeting
How to select and properly rig my rod
Proper rigging for the species you’re targeting

Week 4 Tuesday, March 8th, 2022

Maximizing success for the waters you’re fishing
Are you fully prepared for your excursion?
What’s next after catching your fish?

Week 5 Tuesday, March 15th, 2022

Planning your next excursion
Resources available to help you win!
Detailed Q&A with the pros

Following completion of this 5-week course, we’ll outline some additional opportunities for participants to learn on-the-water strategies for success through the various workshops we’ll be offering in 2022.

Each 1-hour Zoom webinar will start at 6:30 p.m. and as many family and friends can participate from one computer/device as you want. Each webinar class will be recorded so anglers need not be present to utilize this opportunity. You’ll have indefinite access to this material and many other resources we’re going to make available to you.

Find out more about this course starting up next week by clicking here and learn how to fish.

Jason Waicunas of Outdoor Viewfinder tallied his first ever hatchery steelhead, steelhead fishing a north coast stream with Pro Guide Chris Vertopoulos (503-349-1377) on January 17th, 2022.
North Coast Fishing Report – Low water conditions are once again upon us, compromising north coast opportunity for steelhead fishing in what should be peak season. Don’t worry, there’s lots of opportunity ahead, but steelhead are certainly anxious to get their run “on”.

There was brief periods of glory on the Wilson and Nestucca systems early this week however, but robust catches quickly faded in the dropping flows. Weekend action is likely to be challenging once again.

Wild fish are starting in on other coastal systems such as the Trask and Kilchis Rivers but better action lies ahead when the next rain freshet rises river levels to more comfortable standards for fish.

The Siletz and to a lesser degree the Alsea are close to busting loose too. Again, we’re just one rain freshet away from good steelhead fishing.

Saltwater cowboys found excellent conditions to pursue lingcod, sea bass and sport-legal Dungeness late last week. A calm ocean was a welcome change and anglers took advantage of it from every coastal port. The commercial fleet has had a record year for economic landings to date but there’s lots of sport legals yet to be had.

See the full report and forecast for Members right here.

SW Oregon Fishing Report – Contributor Jeff Rome reports

Winter steelhead fishing “just ain’t worth it right now” is the primary consensus of guides and fellow anglers. Most if not all rivers and streams are low, clear and cold where the bite has now turned into luck in order to attain any kind of action. Until more rain comes, it will be bleak winter steelhead success.

Best bets for now is to book a charter or get your boat out to take advantage of some nice ocean and bay days. Ling cod and bottom fish are in closer now to spawn making for some great action. Don’t forget that the surf perch are biting along the rocky jetty’s and sandy beaches too! Crabbing in Coos, Charleston and Winchester bays are great now….. boiled crab, steamed crab, BBQ crab, crab cakes, crab puffs, crab omelets, crab bisque…….I could go on but I won’t

Winter steelhead action on the lower and mid Rogue has been not too slow where the flow at Agness is a low but fishable 3000 cfs. but the mid Rogue is hovering just over 1300 cfs. where the river is getting low and skinny. Some success has been had by bank plunkers on the lower near Agness and on the mid-section between Galice and Robertson bridge for 1/2 pounders and a few adults. As of February 1st, you can keep a wild steelhead over 24″, but it’s little enticement until rain brings in the run…… none in the near forecast.

The Chetco is providing skilled drift boaters a bump and grind ride to be the first one on the flats to get the first opportunity at some steelhead. Wear your waders as you’ll probably need to get out in a few places depending on where you put in at. Bank anglers are having decent success plunking at the traditional plunking areas.

The smaller rivers and streams such as the Elk, Sixes, Coos, Millicoma, N. Umpqua and Coquille are very low and clear to make an effort to fish right now.

The main Umpqua had been producing some steelhead, but all Umpqua systems are getting low and slow for winter steelhead. Best to hit the “known” holes/ areas early.

Weather and ocean conditions look great this weekend to get out crabbing and bottom fishing for rock fish and lings.

Jeff’s detailed report, multiple lake updates, and forecast in this week’s version for Members!

Receive these SW Washington and Oregon fishing
reports in your email on Thursday nights by signing up here.

Find out more about becoming an Oregon Member here!

Gulfstream · Feb 6, 2022

Thanks for the report!

The Guides Forecast · Feb 12, 2022

Portland/Metro Fishing Report – Despite favorable water conditions, especially for February, very few spring Chinook have been tallied on the mainstem Willamette. Although still a few months away from peak season, February spring Chinook are certainly a possibility for anglers that put in some time.

Sturgeon fishing should be picking up on the Willamette, but few are in pursuit. Seems that there’s a few Stellar Sea Lions crunching them in the Milwaukie area, please consider doing your part and reporting any mortality or siting’s by going HERE to report what you see.

The mainstem Columbia remains predictably quiet.

Clackamas River anglers aren’t yet impressed with this year’s return of winter steelhead. February is often a peak month however, so anglers are likely to see improved catches in the coming weeks.

Avid angler Jeff Stoeger reports, “Hello All. I fished Tuesday and the river was low and noticeably clear and will stay that way until we get some decent rain. There were lots of anglers and boats on the lower river from Dabney to Lewis and Clark Park. There have been some good days on the river from Cedar Creek to Dabney with double digits and there were some particularly good days in Oxbow Park area.

A more robust trout stocking schedule lies just ahead. Go to the stocking page to see what opportunities lie ahead in the coming weeks.

Find the full report and forecast for Members on the Sandy and the Clackamas from this page here.

North Coast Fishing Report – Low, clear water conditions continue to plague north coast steelheaders. Fish are present, but mostly concentrated in just a few locations. It’s become a run-and-gun fishery, or race to the hole and pound it until you succeed. Not my favorite kind of fishing.

The Wilson, Nestucca and Siletz remain the best three late-season options for those seeking a consumptive opportunity. Some hatchery broodstock fish are also returning to the North Fork Nehalem for the first time, that too is a viable option if you’re versed in low-water strategies.

The Nehalem remains the best wild fish option for steelheaders into the weekend. With the size of the watershed, it’s in good shape for those willing to work the water dilligently.

Bottomfishing may be a good option this weekend as seas look to be shrinking by Sunday. It’s likely the window of opportunity won’t last long however.

Bay crabbing remains fairly good.

See the full report and forecast for Members right here.

Ed Shearer of Portland with a nice north coast steelhead caught on February 8th with
pro guide Chris Vertopoulos (503) 349-1377.
Eastern Oregon Fishing Reports – Contributor Glenn Zinkus reports:

Weather Outlook Across Central and Eastern Oregon:

Northeast Oregon will see highs in the mid 40s through the weekend, with nights in the 20s. Temperatures cool to highs in the 30s next week. Some snow on Monday, and then clear.

Southeast Oregon will see highs in the 50s and some 60s on the weekend. Some precipitation on Monday.

EASTERN/SOUTHEASTERN OREGON WATERS

Ana Reservoir: Fishing on Ana Reservoir remains steady for legal and trophy size trout, but will slow down with colder temperatures. Trout will go for slowly stripped leeches and streamer patterns.

Trolling lures and flies, and bait are taking fish.

Blitzen River: No new reports. Latest water temperatures are in and around 32 degrees, meaning the trout will go to the bottom and get lethargic. The banks will begin icing over if not already. Flows remain low in the 30 to 32 CFS range.

If fishing there, it will be a nymphing game: PTs, Euro nymph style flies.

Lofton Reservoir: Likely iced over for the season.

Chewaucan River: Cold water and starting to ice over for the winter.

Krumbo Reservoir: Iced over.

Sprague River: Closed for the season. North Fork public lands are inaccessible from last summer’s Bootleg fire.

Williamson River: Closed for the season.

Klamath River:
Keno Dam to JC Boyle Reservoir: Flows and water temperatures are low. Fish are being caught, but with water temperatures in the 30s, trout fishing will be slow.

JC Boyle Dam to JC Boyle Powerhouse: Good river levels for fishing that are remaining steady.

Check out Glenn’s detailed report with much more information and forecast in this week’s Member’s version.

SW Oregon Fishing Report – Contributor Jeff Rome reports

Looks to be another great weekend out of Brookings with the “Chetco effect” providing a calm ocean and temperatures in the upper 70’s. Even as you go further North, the bottom fishing from Coos, Charleston and Winchester Bays has been great. Crabbing has also been excellent all over.

A few stealthy (and lucky) anglers have managed to catch a few, and I mean few winter steelhead on the Rogue with most action seen below Agness. The mid and upper Rogue is at a Fall time flow in the low 1200 cfs. Catches have been slow but for those avid anglers willing to work for em have been graced with a fish or two primarily below Hog Creek. The winter run has yet to arrive.

The Chetco is a trickle and still holds a few fish but won’t pick up again until much needed rain comes. Not much pressure except for some die hard bank anglers enjoying a nice day.

The smaller rivers and streams such as the Elk, Sixes, Coos, Millicoma, N. Umpqua and Coquille are way low and clear to make an effort to fish right now.

Surf perch are biting along the rocky jetty’s and sandy beaches too!

Jeff’s detailed report, multiple lake updates, and forecast in this week’s version for Members!

TGF 101 is about to start!

Help us build the next generation of anglers and advocates. Enroll yourself or send this info to a friend or family member that wants to learn HOW TO FISH! We’ll take it from here!

With trout, spring Chinook and winter steelhead about to POP, The Guide’s Forecast is poised to teach beginner anglers HOW TO CATCH MORE FISH!

REGISTRATION IS OPEN NOW!

Receive these SW Washington and Oregon fishing
reports in your email on Thursday nights by signing up here.

Find out more about becoming an Oregon Member here!

hobster · Feb 12, 2022

Don’t really need to read this. Here it is…

Oregon fishing report:

We desperately need rain!!

The Guides Forecast · Feb 19, 2022

Portland/Metro Fishing Report – A few spring Chinook continue to get taken on the Willamette River, with one wild one reported on Tuesday from Sellwood, and 3 reported from the Oregon City area on Saturday. Early catches like this are not surprising, especially given the nearly ideal water conditions (temperatures aside) anglers have at their rod tips. It’s only going to get better from here.

All remains quiet on the Columbia. Temperatures are cold, sturgeon, salmon and steelhead are not biting well, with steelhead, likely destined for the Willamette, Clackamas or Sandy River, most prevalent in the system right now.

The Clackamas is heading into its peak and with a weekend rain freshet likely on its way, action could get interesting early next week. Fish are well distributed in the system and more wild fish are starting to show.

The Sandy has been fair for some, challenging for most but like the Clackamas, the weekend rain event should be a game changer. It won’t be long before the season’s first spring Chinook is taken here too.

A more robust trout stocking schedule lies just ahead. Go to the stocking page to see what opportunities lie ahead in the coming weeks.

Find the full report and forecast for Members on the Sandy and the Clackamas from this page here.

North Coast Fishing Report – Guides and anglers have been justifiably complaining about low, clear water conditions. Motivated guides are having some success with a pre-dawn launch and grab (the spot), but the bite is early and it is abbreviated. The Wilson, Nestucca, Siletz, Alsea and NF Nehalem all have late-running broodstock fish available, but all are producing limited results under these water conditions.

Larger rivers like the Nehalem remain the best option, but anglers need to be prepared for catch and release fishing for this system.

Anglers got offshore for bottomfish last weekend and fishing was good. Both sea bass and lingcod were cooperative, but the ocean wasn’t as nice as predicted but anglers made it work.

Bay crabbing has tapered a bit, but razor clam digging remains good when surf conditions are favorable.

See the full report and forecast for Members right here.

SW Oregon Fishing Report – Contributor Jeff Rome reports

It’s the first of the year Free Fishing weekend (Sat & Sun) that looks more promising for ocean bottom fishing and crabbing then for catching steelhead. The lack of precipitation the past month has plagued all Oregon steelhead rivers and streams which thus far has yet to really bring in the winter run. On the bright side, ocean & weather conditions continue to be very favorable for weekend trips out for limits of fun catching bottom fish and big Ling cod. Crabbing has also been good to excellent.

Ports from Crescent City Ca. to Brookings on up to Winchester bay are all good prospects for bottom fishing and crabbing.

Not to be overlooked is the surf perch action along the rocky jettys and sandy beaches. This time of year can be good to great for some tasty dinner fare! Not much skill is required and the kids will love catching them as well.

The mid Rogue from Hog Creek down to Grave creek seems to be where most of what little success has been. River flow has maintained in the mid 1200 cfs…… not much enticement for fish to move upriver. Anglers working the deeper holes and seams with soft beads and plugs have plucked a fish or two.

It might be worth while to hike to Rainey Falls where it was reported that a couple lucky anglers had some nice steelhead success . I would imagine there might be the “winter load” just waiting for rain to scream on up from there.

Jeff’s detailed report, multiple lake updates, and forecast in this week’s version for Members!

Receive these SW Washington and Oregon fishing
reports in your email on Thursday nights by signing up here.

Find out more about becoming an Oregon Member here!

Casting Call · Feb 20, 2022

Last day (no license required) to ocean fish for perch. Let us know how you do? Tony

The Guides Forecast · Feb 25, 2022

Portland/Metro Fishing Report – More spring Chinook salmon are being reported from Oregon City to the Multnomah Channel. Cold temperatures haven’t slowed effort, although propane heaters have become all the rage this week. Although far from consistent, catches are justifying a fair effort by motivated anglers, and catches should continue through the weekend, before precipitation hits the region, causing a short hic-cup on success rates.

Interest in sturgeon fishing has yet to take off on the Willamette just yet, although action is fair to good for the few that are trying.

The Columbia remains quite cold to inspire spring Chinook to move, let alone sacrifice themselves to angler gear. It’s best to invest your time in the Willamette, where water temperatures are running about 6 degrees warmer.

Smelt are being reported in the mainstem Columbia, a good sign for dippers and spring Chinook anglers too.

Pro Guide Jack Glass reported a quality summer steelhead a client of his took this week. The flesh color is amazing, I’m sure the fight was too. See picture below. The Sandy has more winter steelhead than summers one might guess, and warmer temperatures and a weather change will do wonders for this fishery.

The Clackamas has been yielding steelhead in the lower reaches. Fish have been slow to migrate, but with the upcoming weather change, action should dramatically improve.

A more robust trout stocking schedule lies just ahead. Go to the stocking page to see what opportunities lie ahead in the coming weeks.

Photo: Wes Smith from Arizona caught this Summer Steelhead on the Sandy River on February 22nd with Pro Guide Jack Glass (503-260-2315)

Find the full report and forecast for Members on the Sandy and the Clackamas from this page here.

North Coast Fishing Report – Low, clear water continues to hamper steelhead success for north coast anglers. A weather change, however, will improve conditions, which may happen early next week. The Wilson is extremely low, and producing only in a few holes. The Nestucca is in better shape, but few fish are moving, making for challenging conditions.

Other north coast streams are too low to produce, even though many of them have the notoriously “snappy” spawned-out steelhead headed their way back to sea. Conditions are simply too low and clear to produce any measurable results.

The mainstem Nehalem is in good shape and producing fair results for this time of year.

The Siletz remains quiet, the Alsea even more so. Rain is desperately needed and should bring better success next week.

Saltwater anglers have been flush with sea bass, lingcod have been a bit harder to come by. Ocean crabbing for sport-legals hasn’t been great. It won’t be all that long before the spring “clutch” comes on, only slowing sport success even further.

See the full report and forecast for Members right here.

SW Oregon Fishing Report – Contributor Jeff Rome reports:

Free Fishing weekend did produce limits and double hook ups of bottom fish from Brooking up through Winchester bay. It was, and still is the “best bet” for this coming weekend- Friday/ Saturday for good to great fishing action. Surf perch action along the rocky jetty’s and sandy beaches has also been good.

A little bit of rain touched the coast but not enough to raise and warm river levels into good fishing shape. It “finally” looks like my multiple car washing efforts are about to pay off (since it will typically rain within 48 hours of doing so) with a nice big storm with significant rain expected early next week. With that in the forecast, rivers and streams will probably blow out temporarily but should bring in a good influx of winter steelhead and finally provide some good fishing.

The lower Rogue river has remained slow for steelhead, but some action has been reported of some winter fish being caught below Rainie Falls. Those willing to take the 3 mile hike might be rewarded with some nice fish that have stacked up there waiting for higher flow. From Grave creek up to Hog creek anglers in boats have got a few fish on metallic maglips.

The Chetco is still low and clear but should be in great shape for the first of March weekend…get ready!

Some small lakes and ponds have already received some trout stockings- Central Point’s Expo Pond and Reinhardt Park Pond in Grants Pass received trout stockings last week and Lake Selmac got 5000 trout Valentine’s day.

Jeff’s detailed report, multiple lake updates, and forecast in this week’s version for Members!

Receive these SW Washington and Oregon fishing

reports in your email on Thursday nights by signing up here.

Find out more about becoming an Oregon Member here!

Gulfstream · Feb 25, 2022

Thanks for the info!

The Guides Forecast · Mar 4, 2022

Portland/Metro Oregon Fishing Report – Prior to the current rain event, spring Chinook fishing had been mediocre at best. There were catches river-wide, best in Oregon City last week, but catches picked up in the Multnomah Channel over the weekend. Not spectacular mind you, but improving, indicating that there have been better numbers of fish moving into the system.

The few anglers that have been out in recent days said that yes indeed, the river is full of debris, and water clarity is maybe 1-foot at best.

Find the full report and forecasts for Members on Willamette River right here.

There is nothing going on in the Columbia River right now, but some additional days were given to sturgeon anglers fishing the Bonneville and John Day Pools. See the press release HERE.

WDF&W also approved a very brief smelt dipping season for Cowlitz River anglers. You can see all the details HERE.

Clackamas River anglers have been less than motivated in recent weeks. None-the-less, we’re in peak season for this system and anglers realize that the current high water bump will inspire biters to make their way into the system. Overall, catches have been sporadic, with some reporting brief periods of productive fishing, while most struggled. The current rain freshet will accurately tell the tale of how this year’s return is going to shape up for the rest of the season.

Avid angler Jeff Stoeger reports, “Hello All. I hope that you were able to get out and fish this week. I have a couple of buddies that had a great couple of days on the middle and upper river. One guy went 8 for 13 and another guy went 5 for 8. Most of the fish had some color and a few bright fish in the mix. The water temp is around 40 degrees which is ideal for fish.

A robust trout stocking schedule lies just ahead. Go to the stocking page to see what opportunities lie ahead in the coming weeks.

Find the full report and forecast for Members on the Sandy and the Clackamas from this page here.

North Coast Fishing Report – North Coast Fishing Report – As most folks already know, it has been a rainy week on the North Oregon Coast. However welcome, this is the rain freshet we’ve all been waiting for.

Anglers are just getting back on the water on Wednesday. With some guides fishing the high water on the Kilchis in hopes of finding good numbers of wild returning adults. I know of two fishing guides that fished the Kilchis on Wednesday, one boat went over two while the other one was two for four.

Anxious observers reported the Wilson was “steelhead green” at Lee’s Camp on Wednesday afternoon. By the time this particular observer got down to milepost 12 however, it was still high and off color. Today (Thursday) will still be high, but fishable. Fresh reports indicate that there are fair numbers of steelhead present.

The Trask also hit an ideal stage on Thursday, but when the water is this high, the upper float from Stones Camp to Upper Peninsula is the better bet. Bank anglers often have fair to good success at the Dam Hole, where fish concentrate in higher numbers before ascending the falls. No report from the Dam Hole for Thursday, the water remained high and off-color, there wasn’t a lot of traffic today.

The Nestucca remained too high to fish on Thursday, but should clear by Friday or certainly Saturday. The Nehalem by next week.

The North Fork Nehalem was in ideal shape on Thursday but the recording indicated there aren’t many hatchery fish this late in the season although the new run of broodstock steelhead should be present and accounted for, which should extend hatchery opportunities for another few weeks. No fish were reported on Thursday morning.

Bottomfishing may become an option early next week.

See the full report and forecast for Members right here.

Eastern Oregon Fishing Reports – Contributor Glenn Zinkus reports (From last week):

EASTERN/SOUTHEASTERN OREGON WATERS

Ana Reservoir: Fishing on Ana Reservoir remains steady for legal and trophy size trout, but will slow down with colder temperatures. Trout will go for slowly stripped leeches and streamer patterns.

Trolling lures and flies, and bait are taking fish.

Blitzen River: No new reports. Latest water temperatures are in and around 32 degrees, meaning the trout will go to the bottom and get lethargic. The banks will begin icing over if not already. Flows remain low in the 30 to 32 CFS range.

If fishing there, it will be a nymphing game: PTs, Euro nymph style flies.

Lofton Reservoir: Likely iced over for the season.
Check out Glenn’s detailed report with much more information and forecast in this week’s Member’s version.

SW Oregon Fishing Report – Contributor Jeff Rome reports:

Last weekend proved to be very successful for ocean anglers targeting bottom fish and Ling cod. It’s been windy and rough since Monday but chances to get back out for the weekend is looking better further North towards Coos, Charleston and Winchester Bay’s. The crabbing has slowed temporarily due to the influx of of fresh water from the rain, but is due to recover shortly.

The Chetco, Elk and Sixes look to be the best bets for the weekend as rain got flows back up enough to boat and bring in fresh fish. Optimum river conditions are forecast along with expected good to excellent catches now through early next week. It’s gonna be very busy so be prepared…… be nice!

The Rogue river flow also got some help from recent rain, but has not yet inspired “good” or better steelhead catches. The river is dropping back down and has warmed to just under 50 degrees. Steelhead catches from Grave creek up to Gold Hill this week show that there are fish throughout the system….. you just have to work a bit to find em. With that in mind, river conditions dropping and warmer, this weekend’s forecast is as good as it’s gets for now! I’m anticipating some better reports for next week.

As we’ve gotten some nice “Spring” weather, I’d be lacking to not mention some of the lake and pond opportunity. Some lakes and ponds have already received some trout stockings- Central Point’s Expo Pond and Reinhardt Park Pond in Grants Pass, Lake Selmac in Selma. As the weather and water warms, bass and bluegill make for fun family outings for the kids to catch. Lost creek and Galesville lake, although low, are fishable for holdover trout.

The Millicoma, Coos and Coquille systems are also back into “steelhead” shape and should provide this week with some good action.

Grants Pass Pro-guide Troy Whitaker of Troy’s Guide Service (541-761-0015)

Oregon fishing trip with Troy Whitaker

The little bit of recent rain so far hasn’t done much to spur on a decent bite….”but fish are here, ya just have to work harder for em” Troy reported. If you’re boating, you gotta cover some water and don’t take too much time in any one place and make sure your offering is away from the boat. Bank anglers should work their favorite holes and try a number of things, but don’t stay too long before moving to the next hole if therre is no success. Using smaller baits like dime sized roe, 1/4-1/2 nightcrawler, size 10-12 soft beads and no bigger than 3.0 Mag lip plug Troy recommended.

Jeff’s detailed report, multiple lake updates, and forecast in this week’s version for Members!

Receive these SW Washington and Oregon fishing
reports in your email on Thursday nights by signing up here.

Find out more about becoming an Oregon Member here!

The Guides Forecast · Mar 12, 2022

Portland/Metro Fishing Report – Columbia River anglers are still waiting for good numbers to show on the mainstem. Still no springers over Bonneville Dam.

When the rain ceases, it doesn’t take long for the Willamette to drop and clear into fishable shape. Anglers as early as Monday of this week were reporting fishable conditions and willing fish. Meldrum Bar near Oregon City has been putting out a few spring Chinook in recent days.

Trollers working the Portland Harbor and Multnomah Channel continue to come up light, but Oregon City catches are happening, albeit it’s still a needle in a haystack situation.

Clackamas River Fishing Report – After last weekend’s rain freshet, the Clackamas is just now coming back into fishable shape. Between a warming trend and rainfall, the river shot up pretty significantly over the weekend, but anglers in the know on how to target steelhead in high flows are in good position to take advantage of the peak season right now.

Sandy River Fishing Report – Avid angler Jeff Stoeger reports, “Hello All. Well this must of been a good week for fishing for there were lots of fish caught and the word had gotten out. I had a friend mention that he had seen lots of fish caught and there were lots of anglers like the old days, shoulder to shoulder. There were lots of rafts and drift boats from Oxbow to Dabney as it seemed like a freeway as my buddy counted at least 12 boats that passed him and he gave up counting.

Find the full report and forecast for Members on the Sandy and the Clackamas from this page here.

North Coast Fishing Report – Following the significant rain system last week, rivers took a hard jump up and a fairly rapid drop after that, exciting anglers to get out on the water in force last weekend. As predicted, swarms of boats inundated North Coast rivers, in particular the Wilson and Nestucca River systems. Those two systems along with the Siletz and a few fish on the Alsea as well as the North Fork Nehalem are the only late season hatchery options on the North Coast. Of course wild fish are available on nearly every North Coast river system.

It is clear by now that despite the fairly strong early season start, it is not going to be a banner steelhead season. It’s not overly disappointing, just not a banner year.

Nestucca River anglers had a few more days to take advantage of good water conditions compared to other North Coast systems. With such an expansive watershed, the river holds its flow and color for a bit longer than other rivers. Pro guide Kent Anderson (503-550-6303) has been reporting more consistent results later in the day and lower in the drift closer to Three Rivers area.

Other North Coast systems such as the Kilchis and Trask did have brief moments of opportunity on the early part of the drop last week. It is back to mediocrity with some smaller systems such as the Kilchis, Necanicum and North Fork Nehalem already low and clear. .

The mainstem Nehalem River is one of the better options under current North Coast conditions.

Bottomfishing was on the table this week, with some days best defined as “Chamber of Commerce.” Limits of rockfish and lingcod were not all that challenging to attain for those that know their way around the reefs. Pro guide Rob Gerlitz (503-812-4950) took his quick limits on Wednesday and Thursday and threw back a 20 plus pound Chinook that took a swipe at his bottomfish gear. He was fishing Three Arch Rocks out of Garibaldi.

Coastal estuary crabbing is also performing poorly, but maybe slightly better than the ocean crab fishery.

Surf perch fishing should also be coming on strong during the springtime months.

Herring are in Yaquina Bay with excited anglers taking their fair share of the spawning population off the docks and in the adjacent estuary waters.

See the full report and forecast for Members right here.

Central Oregon Fishing Report – Contributor Glenn Zinkus reports bi-weekly.

This past week was warm, then cold with snow midweek, and a warming trend starting today. Friday will hit 60, and stay that way in parts of Central Oregon for the start of the weekend making for comfortable fishing weather before the precipitation comes in again late Saturday and Sunday.

Chances of rain and snow in high elevations continue Sunday and Sunday night, with some warming temperatures and chances of rain showers next week. Highs through the region will rise into 50s Monday.

ODFW News – Angling Restrictions

Deschutes RiverMouth at westbound I-85 bridge upstream to the Pelton Dam regulating reservoir –

Closed to all angling for and retention of steelhead from Jan. 1 to May 31, 2022.
All other permanent rules for the Central Zone, as stated in the 2022 Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations, remain in effect.

Lower Deschutes River: The Lower Deschutes has been dropping this past week – currently right around 5300 CFS at Moody and forecasted to remain steady into next week, perhaps bumping up midweek.

Middle Deschutes River: The river level is up and is not dropping yet, but soon. The Skwalas should be making their appearances any day and the March Browns are still a few weeks out. This river will start to happen in the coming weeks.

Haystack Reservoir: Haystack is at 87 % full today. ODFW stocked Haystack with several hundred big rainbows (broodstock) in January, and several hundred more went in again during February. Warming temps this weekend will help the fishing after a couple of cold snaps.

Lake Billy Chinook: Bull trout season is on. However, it is still a bit slow for bulls. There have been some incidental catches while anglers targeted kokanee.

Best bets right now are to launch at the Deschutes ramp.

Kokes are down deep right now, all of the recent reports have them in depths of 100 to 135 feet. No reports from the last few days with the sub-zero temps, but anglers have been catching kokanee during the previous week. One common theme seems to be colors including purple and orange. Should start fishing well again as temperatures start to go up. Crooked River: Flows remain low and steady. Not many reports, and the river edges iced up during the February freezes. We have another Wednesday cold snap, so the Crooked may still remain the same. Water has been dirty.

Metolius River: The BWOs do come off during the early afternoon, around 1 PM. I did see some small gray caddis lower on the rivers upstream of Bridge 99, and there are some reports of a size 14-18 dark tan caddis. I saw some stonefly activity just upstream from Bridge 99 early this week.

Metolius bull trout fishing remains prime right now. If swinging flies for bulls with a trout spey Skagit setup with a white and olive Intruder style streamer with success.

SW Oregon Fishing Report – Contributor Jeff Rome reports:

With some more rain in next week’s forecast, anglers are again hopeful for that “window of opportunity” – as the river is going down and a fresh bunch of fish have entered the system ready and willing. If it’s anything like the last one, it should be great again for the following weekend.

A little bit of rain went a long way to improve all of SW Oregon’s steelhead rivers last week. Reports of good to excellent catches of winter steelhead were had on the Chetco last Friday through earlier this week when the river level was low and clear again. Most of the pressure was on the Chetco, but those who did fish the Elk and Sixes were rewarded as well. Rain is expected back early to mid next week so conditions should be good again for the aforementioned for the latter part of the week.

Ocean fishing for bottom fish and nice ling cod has continued to be great since the weather has been cooperating . Limits have been the norm especially out of Brookings. Ling cod action has also been very good An upcoming front forecast for early next week might have this weekend’s ocean opportunity a bit iffy depending on what day and where. Crabbing has been poor to fair out of Brookings but is good to excellent up North towards Winchester and Charleston Bay.

The Rogue river got enough rain to “sweeten” up the water to spur on some steelhead catches on the mid section. There are fish around but you have to work to find them and then figure out what to throw at em to get a bite. Seems like plugs (Mag lips 2.5 -3.5) are the norm for current conditions. River flow has dropped back down but is still fishable for both bank and boat anglers throughout the system.

The Umpqua systems saw “best of the season” steelhead catches following the last rain. Now they have dropped but should provide another….maybe even better chance following this next rain event later next week.

Best bet for this weekend is the mid Rogue from Rogue River on down to Grave Creek as fish are scattered. The Chetco might be ok for bank anglers, but boaters will have a bumpy ride again until later next week.

Jeff’s detailed report, multiple lake updates, and forecast in this week’s version for Members!

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reports in your email on Thursday nights by signing up here.

Find out more about becoming an Oregon Member here!

The Guides Forecast · Mar 20, 2022

Portland/Metro Fishing Report - Columbia River anglers finally started seeing improved catches for spring Chinook downstream of St. Helens. Through VSI (Visual Stock Indexing), creel checkers checked more upper Columbia bound spring Chinook than in previous weeks, when Willamette bound (Snow-bellies) dominated the catches. Anglers only have a few more weeks, through April 6th, to fish the mainstem Columbia. The bag limit remains one fin-clipped springer per angler per day. Catch rates indicate it will take several effort days for the general angler to catch one.

Willamette River spring Chinook catches improved dramatically last week, particularly in the Multnomah Channel. Those trolling herring scored good catches of hatchery fish, with more on the way. Water conditions will be good for weekend anglers with the middle river and Oregon City lagging well behind lower river catches.

Clackamas River Fishing Report - Catches in the Clackamas have been good, with good success coming from bank anglers in the lower reach. Wild fish are now making up the bulk of the catch but district biologist Ben Walczak reported the hatchery seeing a nice bump this week, and overall, may see around 1,000 returning adults if all goes their way. It's a good time to target steelhead on the Clackamas right now, both wild and hatchery fish.

Sandy River Fishing Report - Avid angler Jeff Stoeger reports, "Hello All. This week's report we can confirm that two springers were caught last week. The fish weighed in the mid-teens. This week we saw the river take just over a foot jump and the river is still fishable. The freezing level will be dropping and the river should be ideal for next week. There have been fresh fish entering the river daily with most of the fish still being winter steelhead as well as summers and now springers showing up."

There's going to be a whole bunch of trout stocking going on in the coming weeks, in preparation for spring break. Check out the upcoming stocking schedule HERE.

Find the full report and forecast for Members on the Sandy and the Clackamas from this page here.

North Coast Fishing Report - Steelhead anglers had another tough week for "Peak season," but persistent anglers are still scratching out a fish here and there on most north coast systems. The Wilson and Nestucca systems are producing very sporadic catches, even under great water conditions. Wild fish returns don't seem to be all that much better and it's not likely to significantly improve in the coming weeks. Winter steelhead however, remains a viable option into mid-April.

Bottomfishing catches were good last week, under friendly seas. Friendly seas won't come around again by the weekend, and next week isn't looking all that promising either.

Interest for steelhead will start to fade, based on Willamette Valley spring Chinook catches. That'll make crowds more tolerable in the coming weeks and those systems without a hatchery option will be very pleasant to fish. Spring Chinook are still months away.

Like Willamette Valley lakes and reservoirs, the stocking schedule for coastal systems will be pretty robust in the coming weeks. Might make for a nice combination option for those planning their upcoming spring break.

Bay crabbing is fair at best, tides aren't all that favorable either.

Afternoon minus tides may produce good razor clam digs along the north coast, but a robust swell may keep clams deep, where a pounding surf impedes their shows.

See the full report and forecast for Members right here.

SW Oregon Fishing Report - Contributor Jeff Rome reports:

The much needed rain from last week and into this week got a nice spur in action on most steelhead rivers and streams in SW Oregon. The Rogue and Chetco got a nice "spur" with reports of limits of chrome within the past 7 days! More rain is expected on Saturday as a smaller front comes in and should help get river levels back into shape.

Avid angler in Grants Pass Joe Brandt reported a "nice" day on the Chetco (see main photo) Wednesday working plugs wrapped with fresh caught smelt from the Harbor boat basin . He caught 3 fish in a short time so I guess that's something to consider in your repertoire of baits. He's back to it today (Thursday) and hopes it keeps working!

The Elk and Sixes were also in fishable shape briefly and should also fish good Sunday. There's still plenty of fish in these systems but is starting to wind down.

The Rogue river has had a little fluctuation in flow the past week which brought on an on and off bite mostly on the middle section. finally got a little rain that was enough to get some steelhead action going...,mostly in the mid section from Rogue River down to Grave Creek. Varied showers in the Rogue valley have helped fluctuate flow and more rain is in store on Saturday which should definitely help again. Outlook is good for the weekend and if you're a "die hard" steelhead angler, you'll take your rain gear and hit it Saturday

Jeff's detailed report, multiple lake updates, and forecast in this week's version for Members!

Receive these SW Washington and Oregon fishing reports in your email on Thursday nights by signing up here.

The Guides Forecast · Mar 26, 2022

Portland/Metro Fishing Report – Smelt on the mainstem Columbia continues to quell catches for spring Chinook anglers. Adult returns to Bonneville Dam are underway, however, indicating the run is underway. With a looming April 6th closure date, excitement will build when weather allows. In the absence of any significant Willamette River rises, water conditions should remain ideal for lower Columbia trollers and anchor anglers.

The Willamette itself is still just producing fair-at-best catches. All reaches of the lower Willamette saw catch improvements this week as the run will continue to build for the next 6 weeks. Sturgeon fishing in the lower Willamette remains good to very good. Winter steelhead are still being seen in good numbers in the Oregon City area, with both wild and hatchery fish available.

The Clackamas is starting to slow for what was a mediocre at best hatchery winter steelhead showing. Wild winter steelhead and some summer run fish will begin to show in greater numbers. Spring Chinook are still a few weeks away and the Clackamas run has been depressed in recent years.

There’s going to be a whole bunch of trout stocking going on in the coming weeks, in preparation for spring break. Check out the upcoming stocking schedule HERE.

Find the full report and forecast for Members on the Sandy and the Clackamas from this page here.

North Coast Fishing Report – The dog days of summer have settled in a bit early on the North Coast. Steelhead fishermen continue to cry the blues with many switching over to Willamette Valley spring Chinook opportunities. The season started off rather good but has faded during what most consider still to be peak season.

Wilson River Steelheaders are still struggling for consistent results. River conditions are dropping and clearing, further compromising any opportunity one might have.

Anglers fishing the upper reach of the Wilson are finding a few fish, pocketed up in the dropping flows.

The Nestucca isn’t any better. Despite ideal water conditions, pro guide Kent Anderson (503-550-6303) is sticking to his report. Kent states, “River is perfect but lacking fish.”

It’s not all doom and gloom on every north coast river, however. Reliable reports from the Trask River sound like action is more consistent. Of course, it’s still down from more robust years, but anglers are finding good action depending on the day for this river system.

The Nehalem is another North Coast Mecca, but being a larger river system, fish can be harder to find.

There may be a window for an offshore foray this week. Be mindful of an ever-changing weather forecast but fish tacos could be on the menu.

Razor clams could prove productive too, on the evening tides early next week

See the full report and forecast for Members right here.

Central Oregon Fishing Report – Contributor Glenn Zinkus reports bi-weekly.

Weather Outlook Across Central and Eastern Oregon:

Weather is warming as we get into the latter days of March. Temperatures will be in the 60s through much of the region through the weekend, and places such as Maupin on the Lower Deschutes will climb into the lower 70s through Saturday.

There are some chances of precipitation on Monday, especially in the mountains. Weather on Monday will cool into the 50s in the higher elevations.

Lower Deschutes River:

The Lower Deschutes is steady to very slowly climbing – currently right around 5350 CFS at Moody and forecasted to remain steady into next week, perhaps bumping up midweek.

Temperatures on the lower portions of the river are in the 48 degree range but bumped up the past day to 53 degrees.

Middle Deschutes River: The river level is up and is not dropping yet, but soon. The Skwalas are making some occasional appearances, and the March Browns are not quite out yet. This river will start to happen in the coming weeks.

Haystack Reservoir: Haystack is at 87 % full today. ODFW stocked Haystack with several hundred big rainbows (broodstock) in January, and several hundred more went in again during February. Our friend from Central Oregon Fishing Report, Josh Pardee says that Haystack will become excellent after the drawdown starts on April 1st.

Lake Billy Chinook: Bull trout season is on. However, it is still a bit slow for bulls. There have been some incidental catches while anglers targeted kokanee.

Check out Glenn’s detailed reports and forecasts right here for Chinook and Steelhead Members both!

SW Oregon Fishing Report – Contributor Jeff Rome reports:

As the title says, it’s a “wonderful time of the year” with almost any type of fishing an angler could want going on right now! Winter steelhead is winding down over at the coast however, it’s picking up on the Rogue. Many lakes and ponds have been or will be shortly getting stocked making for Spring trout fishing very good.

The Rogue River after a few (not ever enough) little rain showers definitely got some of those held up winter steelhead on the move and are now scattered nicely in the mid Rogue between Gold Hill and down to Grave creek. Good success has been between Chinook Park down to Griffin Park.

The Chetco has dropped and is still dropping but is in fishable shape and lots of fish to be caught.

The Elk and Sixes are low and clear again and there might be another opportunity or two for steelhead if there’s more rain by the end of the month before closing.

Lakes and ponds have been getting stocked with trout and it is a great time to take the family out to have some fairly easy catches and fun. Since the weather has warmed, bass and bluegill are also an option.

Ocean fishing for bottom fish and ling cod has continued to be great in between some intermittent days of wind. Limits have been the norm especially out of Brookings, along with a good mix of lingcod action. Charleston and Winchester bays are getting a good bite of bottom fish as well as great crabbing.

Umpqua system is still seeing some good steelhead catches but has tapered down following the drop in flows.

I was recently in Bi Mart to check out what they had left of Blu Fox and Panther Martin spinners since they’ve been on sale and met a couple of fishermen with their arms full of an assortment of tackle. I teased them as I offered them a cart and subsequently, we chatted for almost 30 minutes. To make a long story shorter, they told me they had been up to Lost Creek Lake last weekend and “nailed” some big ones! Within 5 minutes on the water, they got their first bite and limited with some football fatties 16-18 inches!

Best bet for steelhead action this weekend is the mid Rogue and Chetco (for a last hurrah). where both bank and boat anglers should find fish. Lakes and ponds such as Lost Creek, Lake Selmac, Medco, Reinhardt, Empire and Saunders are good for spring trout and bass fishing.

Jeff’s detailed report, multiple lake updates, and forecast in this week’s version for Members!

Guide Bill Monroe Jr, (left), and a lucky client with a Columbia River spring Chinook taken last year. Photo by Bill Monroe Jr.

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reports in your email on Thursday nights by signing up here.

The Guides Forecast · Apr 4, 2022

Portland/Metro Fishing Report – With just a few days left for mainstem Columbia River spring Chinook anglers, all hands will be on-deck as the run builds and catches improve. Dam counts are 5X stronger this year than last, and twice as good as the 10-year average so things are looking up! Springers are being caught throughout the lower river, from Bonneville Dam to Westport, Oregon, but sea lions are thick downstream of the Kalama River due to the abundance of smelt still in the system. That makes catching more challenging in that reach of river.

Willamette anglers continue to see improved catches with catches finally out-pacing last year for the first time this season. It’ll only get better from here although a sharp river rise is in the forecast early next week, which will put springers off the bite temporarily. Bank anglers at Meldrum Bar are finally starting to see some spring Chinook and improving catches of hatchery steelhead.

Catch and release sturgeon fishing in the Portland Harbor remains good.

Clackamas River Fishing Report – Wild winter steelhead continue to dominate the catches on the Clackamas River. With each passing day, anglers fishing the Clackamas are more likely to encounter wild winter steelhead, with most of the hatchery return staging at Dog Creek. Returning adult numbers back to the hatchery have not been great, but they haven’t been terrible either.

Spring Chinook are surely in the system, but few and far between right now.

A few hatchery summer run fish are also present, but a rare catch indeed.

Sandy River Fishing Report – Avid angler Jeff Stoeger reports, “Hello All. This week we saw the river climb and stay on the high side until Monday, when it dropped to 10 ft. and stayed that way until Wednesday when it dropped below 10 ft. The river is running at ideal level and very clear. Heard of a lot of fishing pressure over the weekend with lots of boats and raft action from Dodge Park to Dabney Park.

Check out the upcoming stocking schedule HERE.

Find the full report and forecast for Members on the Sandy and the Clackamas from this page here.

The webinar you’ve been waiting for!!!

Fishing the Lower Willamette, from the Multnomah Channel near St. Helens to the St. John’s Bridge in Portland with Pro Guide Josiah Darr April 12th, 2022

Author and accomplished fishing guide Josiah Darr has been fishing the Multnomah Channel and lower Willamette for well over a decade. Join him for this informative webinar and learn the secrets to unlocking productive strategies for catching spring Chinook in the channel and lower Portland Harbor.

In this webinar, you’ll learn:

What techniques to employ in what water conditions (February – June)
The best reaches of river to invest the most time
Effective troll and anchor strategies for spring Chinook in this productive reach of river
And much, much more!

Join us and let us help you catch more fish!

Tuesday, April 12th, starting at 6:30 p.m.
Find out more right here

Pro guide Josiah Darr (206-660-1490) with a Multnomah Channel spring Chinook from March 28th, caught using herring behind a flasher.

North Coast Fishing Report – Although effort is waning, there remain a few quality steelhead on the north coast. April can be a productive time, even on years of low returns, such as this one. With another rain freshet approaching, steelheaders are likely to encounter one more good chance at late season metalheads on most north coast systems.

The Wilson and Nestucca will remain the best opportunity for take-home fish, but there may be a few still coming in on the Siletz and Alsea systems as well.

Wild fish should remain an option on rivers still open for catch and release opportunities. Check local regulations for April 1st closures before heading out.

The ocean will be a very bad option for the foreseeable future. Saltwater anglers did have a good week of fishing for sea bass and lingcod however and ocean Chinook fishing is now open. Although the sport effort remains low, commercial salmon trollers out of Newport and Garibaldi are doing quite well for deep-water Chinook, likely from California river systems.

Estuary crabbing remains fair and if it weren’t for a wicked set of breakers due on the beach this upcoming week, razor clam digging would be a good idea.

See the full report and forecast for Members right here.

SW Oregon Fishing Report – Contributor Jeff Rome reports:

Now that the Chetco, Elk and Sixes are closed to steelhead, the Southern coastal opportunities are bottom fishing, surf perch, crabbing and the little coastal lakes for spring trout fishing…. all of which are good now (weather and seas permitting of course).

The Rogue and Applegate remain open for steelhead but is closed to trout angling until May 21st to decrease smolt mortality. There are quite a few fish in now with a mix of downer Summer run and fresher Winter fish.

The Umpqua system is still seeing some good steelhead catches and a few springers have been caught. Stripped bass angling has gotten increased attention lately.

Lakes and ponds have been getting regularly stocked with trout and is a great time to take the family out to have some fairly easy catches and fun. Since the weather has warmed, bass and bluegill are also an option.

Up towards the upper Southern coastal area, Charleston and Winchester bays are getting a good bite of bottom fish and surf perch as well as great crabbing. Winchester Bay Charters (Cole-541-285-7838) is now offering Striped bass trips!

Best bet for this weekend is the mid Rogue and the Umpqua systems for steelhead. They are low and clear, but fish are there. Lakes and ponds such as Lost Creek, Lake Selmac, Medco, Reinhardt, Empire and Saunders are good for spring trout and bass fishing. Weather and wind might be a factor for getting out for bottom fishing.

Jeff’s detailed report, multiple lake updates, and forecast in this week’s version for Members!

Receive these SW Washington and Oregon fishing

reports in your email on Thursday nights by signing up here.

Find out more about becoming an Oregon Member here!

The Guides Forecast · Apr 9, 2022

Portland/Metro Fishing Report – The Columbia River fishery is now CLOSED. The fishing was getting pretty good too! It’s another sad ending to what could be a banner year for sportfishing on the mainstem Columbia.

Want to put an end to abrupt closures? Will you support Snake River salmon recovery?

Make your voices heard by signing the recovery petition HERE

Add your name to the growing list of anglers urging our lawmakers to TAKE ACTION

Willamette River anglers saw another good week of catching, with good action from the Multnomah Channel and Oregon City. The egg bite is on for Oregon City fishers with anglers welcoming the recent weather change to mix things up here. There’s a whole bunch more fish to come in the next several weeks, we’re entering peak season here so things are looking up. With the Columbia River closure, look for the Willamette to become much more crowded in the coming weeks. The Multnomah Channel will handle a bunch of the pressure, but catches and effort should swell from Oregon City to St. Helens.

Sturgeon catches on the Willamette are good too, with smelt a key bait to your success.

Bill Kremers of Corvallis with a Willamette River fishing for spring Chinook from May 2nd, 2021 from the Milwaukie area.
Sandy and Clackamas River anglers are seeing a mix of late-run (mostly wild) winter steelhead, a few summer steelhead and a rare spring Chinook enter the system. These two metro opportunities will continue to see a mix of these fish, until May arrives with better numbers of summer steelhead and spring Chinook likely to show in the catch.

Trout and kokanee will become all the rage for metro anglers the next few weeks although a cold weather front will certainly quell a lot of motivation until the real spring arrives soon after.

Trout stocking schedules are likely to remain robust, this is the time for these low-level lakes and ponds to shine!

Check out the upcoming stocking schedule HERE.

Find the full report and forecast for Members on the Sandy and the Clackamas from this page here.

North Coast Fishing Report – With a looming Columbia River closure and a Willamette River spring Chinook fishery starting to blossom, interest in winter steelhead has faded. Certainly mediocre-at-best fishing had something to do with it too.

There are still winter steelhead around, but few and far between. Even after a nice rise in river levels, guides and anglers struggled for consistent success. It won’t be a steelhead season to remember so to speak, but coastal effort will focus on bottomfish for the next several weeks as we transition and wait for spring Chinook to appear, along with ocean coho opportunities.

Until then, it’ll be a bit of a snooze city for north coast anglers, especially with more weather about to settle in on top of us for a while.

Bottomfishing and crabbing was excellent for pro guide Rob Gerlitz (503-812-4950) on Thursday (4/7). Limits of bottomfish and lingcod as well as crab for the captain!

See the full report and forecast for Members right here.

Central Oregon Fishing Report – Contributor Glenn Zinkus reports bi-weekly.

Weather Outlook Across Central and Eastern Oregon:

The Thursday temperature spike will cool beginning Friday into the 50s through much of the region, and becomes cool for this time of year on the weekend and into next week with highs mainly in the mid-40s through much of the regions with lows in the 20s during that same time period.

Lower pressure systems arrive on Friday, and some moisture pushes into the Cascades. Heaviest snow on Monday. Central Oregon may even see a few showers beginning Saturday night and into Monday morning.

ODFW News – Angling Restrictions

Deschutes River

Mouth at westbound I-85 bridge upstream to the Pelton Dam regulating reservoir –

Closed to all angling for and retention of steelhead from Jan. 1 to May 31, 2022.
All other permanent rules for the Central Zone, as stated in the 2022 Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations, remain in effect.

Lower Deschutes River:

The Lower Deschutes is steady – currently right around 5240 CFS at Moody and forecasted to remain steady into next week.

Temperatures on the lower portions of the river are in the 48 to 53 degree range.

Middle Deschutes River: River level will be starting to come down right now. The Skwalas make occasional appearances, and there are some occasional March Browns. BWOs, especially on cloudy days, are coming off. The Middle Deschutes is starting to fish well now.

Haystack Reservoir:

ODFW stocked Haystack with several hundred big rainbows (broodstock) in January, and several hundred more went in again during February. Our friend from Central Oregon Fishing Report, Josh Pardee says that Haystack will become excellent after the drawdown starts on April 1st. Haystack is at 86% full today.

Jeff Perin at The Flyfishers Place suggest wade fishing is good near the dam or launch a boat or pontoon and fish drop-offs. Black, red and olive chironomids are great right now, as well as black, olive and maroon leech patterns.

Lake Billy Chinook: Jeff Perin at The Flyfishers Place reports good fishing for Bulls in the Metolius Arm.

Kokes, from all the reports, are still deep in depths of 85 to 145 feet. Effective colors include purple, pink, orange and brass.

Metolius Arm is now open.

Crooked River: Flows remain low and steady. Water has been dirty. Jeff Perin at The Flyfisher’s Place in Sisters that with the low flows, many of the fish migrated down river from Prineville to approximately MP14.

Blue Wing Olive and midges will be the primary surface action, especially during the warmest time of day during the early afternoons. Most of the action will be on nymphing – Perdigons have been the ticket. Nymphing is consistent and anglers are catching redsides and whitefish.Check out Glenn’s detailed reports and forecasts right here for Chinook and Steelhead Members both!

SW Oregon Fishing Report – Contributor Jeff Rome reports:

The Rogue and Umpqua remain open for steelhead, but are closed to trout angling. Steelhead catches on the mid to upper Rogue are producing sporadic catches of newer winter fish along with down runner summer fish.

The Umpqua system is still seeing some good steelhead catches and a few springers have been caught. Stripped bass angling has gotten increased attention lately.

Lakes and ponds have been getting regularly stocked with trout and is a great time to take the family out to have some fairly easy catches and fun.

Up towards the upper Southern coastal area, Charleston and Winchester bays are getting a good bite of bottom fish and surf perch as well as great crabbing. Winchester Bay Charters (Cole-541-285-7838) is now offering Striped bass trips!

Best bet for this weekend is the mid and upper Rogue for steelhead. Recent rain got the river up 1000+ to over 2500 cfs earlier and should have pushed more winter steelhead throughout.

I’m finally getting to go on a much needed vacation starting next Wednesday and will miss writing this edition of TGF for two weeks in a row. I don’t expect too much to change except for some Spring Chinook catches to increase in the Umpqua and Rogue systems. Winter steelhead on the Rogue should continue to be decent through May at least. Spring trout fishing on many lakes should be good as regular stocking has started. Weather permitting, ocean bottom fishing should remain excellent. See ya back on the 29th!

Jeff’s detailed report, multiple lake updates, and forecast in this week’s version for Members!

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The Guides Forecast · Apr 16, 2022

Portland/Metro Fishing Report - With the Columbia River now closed for spring Chinook, focus for the region's most sought after species will turn to the Willamette, where a run of over 50,000 adults is expected back. The run is underway, well underway, with some guides commenting it's far better this year, than what they witnessed last year. The Multnomah Channel produced good catches on Sunday through Tuesday of this week. The middle and upper river at Oregon City also produced fair catches, but it was still only about 1 spring Chinook for every 10 rods fishing. We're entering the peak season for Portland Harbor spring Chinook fishing so it'll get better when the water conditions do.

It's still transition time on the Sandy and Clackamas systems. With the tail end of winter steelhead, and still weeks away from catchable numbers of summer steelhead or spring Chinook, metro anglers are all in for the Willamette River, if they have a boat. Bank angling opportunities this time of year aren't great, we're still weeks away from just mediocre bank fishing possibilities

Trout fishing remains a strong option as stocking programs continue with robust plants.

Check out the upcoming stocking schedule HERE.

Find the full report and forecast for Members on the Willamette, Sandy and the Clackamas from this page here.

North Coast Fishing Report - North Coast winter steelhead is over. It was far from a memorable season, but anglers will still become anxious for spring Chinook and to a lesser extent, summer steelhead available on the Wilson, Trask, Nestucca and Siletz River systems. We're in sit-and-wait mode for north coast opportunities, except for...Bottomfishing.

April offers up some excellent deep reef and nearshore bottomfishing opportunities with sea bass and lingcod headlining the show. Lings can be particularly vulnerable this time of year as they end the spawn and leave their traditional nesting sites.

Ocean crabbing has been good too, and Tillamook Bay is yielding fair to good catches of keeper Dungeness.

More than one sportangler has bragged about good catches of deep water Chinook. It appears that the ocean Chinook fishing is pretty good, mostly out of Newport, but catches out of Garibaldi are reported as well. These feeder Chinook are most likely California stocks of fish, and although success rates can be volatile, overall, it's pretty good fishing so far since the March 15th opener.

See the full report and forecast for Members right here.

Did you miss Josiah Darr's Tuesday webinar on Fishing the Lower Willamette: St. Johns to St. Helens, including the Multnomah Channel?

You can still purchase the recorded version and watch it at your convenience. Just click HERE!

The Guides Forecast · Apr 24, 2022

Portland/Metro Fishing Report – It won’t be long before the dogwoods bloom and catches are ramping up on the Willamette River with good catches reported in the middle river this week. The “temperature gauge” of the middle river is none-other than the Sultan of Sellwood (Coined by Bill Monroe) John Shmilenko. He’s a staple at Sellwood Bridge and has had a great week. Quoting him, “It feels like the old days!” John’s boat has tallied 13 springers in the Sellwood area, a reason to re-think the Oaks Park experience.

Willamette River Catch

The Multnomah Channel had another fair week, but anglers fishing the Oregon City area struggled a bit more last week. The recent bump in water levels and turbidity didn’t seem to have a big negative impact on fishing, in fact, it may have helped. April showers bring May spring Chinook? I like the sound of that.
The upper Columbia remains open for spring Chinook, but catches there are typically just fair at best in the Bonneville and The Dalles Pools. Counts at Bonneville Dam continue to climb, with over 3,300 springers ascending the facility as of April 20th. There have been some caught at Drano Lake.

Sturgeon effort is dropping on the Willamette, and so are catches. It’s likely that these sturgeon are keying in on dying smelt, likely abundant in the mainstem Columbia right now.

Find the full report and forecast for Members on the Sandy and the Clackamas from this page here.

Learn the Willamette from Oregon City to the St. Johns Bridge! Webinar on April 26th with Pro Guides Chris Vertopoulos and Bob Rees. Find out more here!

North Coast Fishing Report – Despite my report last week, stating that the winter steelhead run was over, pro guide Rob Gerlitz (503-812-4950) put the hurt on them on Tuesday. Rob landed 6 fish, 5 of which were wild, but had a friend land 8 just a day or two prior to that. We’ve always known there can be some good April fishing, but that was ridiculous! All that action with NO ONE ELSE on the water!

Most north coast anglers are waiting for the arrival of spring Chinook, which can certainly happen by mid-April, but the bulk of the return starts in mid-May. No rumors of spring Chinook yet, but it won’t be long.

The ocean has offered up some great bottomfishing catches lately, but lingcod have been a bit more challenging to find. Sea bass and even Dungeness crab remain on the hit list, we just need a calm ocean to cooperate.

More trout stockings happening on the coast however. Be sure to check the stocking schedule if you plan on fishing this wonderful corner of the state.

See the full report and forecast for Members right here.

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The Guides Forecast · Apr 30, 2022

Portland/Metro Fishing Report – The Willamette River lit up this week, with good spring Chinook catches from the Multnomah Channel to Oregon City, and everywhere in-between. We won’t see the true tally until early next week, but good action was seen by many anglers throughout the Willamette. The cool weather along with ideal water conditions deserves a lot of credit. Of course, it also helps that we’re in peak migration period for these Willamette River spring Chinook. If water levels continue to remain stable, we should be in for another few weeks of productive spring Chinook fishing.

Bob’s Sellwood spring Chinook 04-26-22

MUCH MORE DETAIL IN OUR FULL VERSION. Subscribe HERE.

Meanwhile, Columbia River spring Chinook are on full display at the fish viewing window at Bonneville Dam. Passage is blossoming like the region’s dogwood trees. Counts are quite positive, but we’re a long ways away from dreaming of another sport opener, or are we?

Avid angler Jeff Stoeger summarizes the Sandy. Jeff reports, “Hello All. I hope that you have the chance to get out and fish this week. The river was ideal for most of the week except for the heavy rains and gusty winds off and on. The river is at ideal level and color, running at just over 10 ft and should stay that way until Saturday and into Sunday They are predicting the heavy rain to bring the river up over 11ft. With this forecast, the river could go off color and muddy up or if the freezing level stays low, the river can come up but stay steelhead green. Fishing has been fair to good depending on where you were fishing and what technique you’re using. I had a couple of buddies who caught both winters and springers in the lower river this past week.”

Wild steelhead continue to dominate the Clackamas River and the return seems pretty good this year. With the Willamette getting all the focus, few are targeting salmon or steelhead on the Clack and it’ll likely remain that way. Summer steelhead however should start nosing into the lower reaches with May being a much more productive month however.

Trout fishing remains a strong option as stocking programs continue with robust plants.

Check out the upcoming stocking schedule HERE.

Find the full report and forecast for Members on the Sandy and the Clackamas from this page here.

North Coast Fishing Report – For real this time, winter steelhead season is over. There are of course sparse returns of summer steelhead in some of these streams, the Wilson and Nestucca systems in particular. Pro guide Rob Gerlitz (503-812-4950) did continue to have some success for late returning winter steelhead this week.

There have been no confirmed reports of spring Chinook in the Tillamook basin but it’s really just a matter of time. Peak returns happen from mid-May through mid-June, early returning fish are caught every year, oftentimes in the Trask River itself. The Trask River is the only system that receives hatchery plants in the Tillamook basin anymore.

Although excited anglers are already pursuing Chinook, mostly around Memaloose Ramp, we will not see a bump in effort until mid-May rolls around. Until then, the ocean may be the better bet for Chinook, both springers and California stocks.

Bottom fishing is all the craze this time of year and for justifiable reason. All we need is an ocean that is friendly to boaters and it will be fish tacos for all! It looks like we may get that window this week, we’ll talk about that in the forecast section. It goes without saying however, just get out to the salt andyou’re sure to slay seabass. The deep-reef fishery will last into June of this year and re-open in September. That’s only 2 months of a closed season. Check out all the regulations HERE.

More trout stockings happening on the coast however. Be sure to check the stocking schedule if you plan on fishing this wonderful corner of the state.

See the full report and forecast for Members right here.

Here’s what one fishing colleague saw, fishing for bottomfish out of Pacific City today (4/28). He reported limits of sea bass and lingcod too.
SW Oregon Fishing Report – Contributor Jeff Rome reports:

Well, after a much needed vacation down in the Riviera Maya Mexico for 10 days, I’ve detoxed and peeled enough to find out that the lower Rogue is finally getting the Spring Chinook run coming in

! Reports of 2-3+ fish per boat have been the norm this past week after much needed rain got fish on the move. A few of them have already made it up to the hatchery and more on the way as more rain showers are expected. Mid Rogue anglers are still getting winter steelhead and will continue to do so, but there are a lot of down runners in the mix.

Lakes and ponds that had been getting regularly stocked with trout are producing good catches. Lost Creek has continued to be a favorite especially now the main marina boat ramp is now accessible. Since the weather has warmed, bass and bluegill are also an option. Lake Selmac, Medco, Reinhardt, Empire and Saunders are good for spring trout and bass fishing.

Best bet for this weekend is the lower and mid Rogue for Springers (lower) and steelhead (both lower and mid). Flow is good for boating and weather looks to be decent (although take your rain gear for the April showers). Ocean conditions at least till Sunday look good out of Brookings for excellent bottom fish opportunities. Crabbing and surf perch out of Winchester Bay is also a good option.

Jeff’s detailed report, multiple lake updates, and forecast in this week’s version for Members!

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on Thursday nights by signing up here.

Find out more about becoming an Oregon Member here!

The Guides Forecast · May 7, 2022

Portland/Metro Fishing Report – As expected, creel data indicates a very productive week last week, with over 1,900 adults tallied, the best catch week since 2015. In a rare show of force, the upper river at Oregon City produced much better catch rates than any other reach of the lower Willamette, a sign that fish are stacking up in preparation for the Willamette Falls ascension, which is already underway.

River temperatures are ideal to keep fish (springers) from moving too fast upstream and the upcoming bump in river levels will keep them from scooting past the falls in rapid fashion, at least for another week.

A river rise is currently underway, which may bode well for Friday anglers before the river jumps more rapidly, and likely puts action on the down for weekend anglers. Turbidity is sure to skyrocket.

28th Annual Spring Fishing Classic May 21, 2022
Fisherman’s Marine & Outdoor and the Northwest Sportfishing Industry Association invite you to join us for the 28th Annual Spring Fishing Classic taking place on May 21, 2022, at Camp Withycombe, 15300 SE Industrial Way, Clackamas, OR 97015. We are looking forward to having an in-person event, a welcome return to our fantastic fishing derbies of yore. For more information, contact Tiffany at 503.631.8859 or head here.

The Columbia closed abruptly on Tuesday, after explosive catch rates, likely due to an under-predicted return of upper Columbia basin springers, only fueled a good bite in the impoundments upstream of Bonneville. Emergency closures are becoming more common, hopefully a sign of overly cautious management, with the liberty to lift restrictions when an abundance of adults show at Bonneville Dam. The run size is likely to be updated within the next week.

Clackamas River Fishing Report – Creel season on the Clackamas starts this week, just in time for a significant river rise, which will put anglers off from a good effort over the weekend. Most recently, steelhead fishing remained the mainstay for Clackamas River anglers, with a mix of wild winter steelhead, mostly down-running fish, along with a slightly stronger showing of hatchery summer steelhead as those numbers start to grow.

Overall, it’s still slow going for fresh summer steelhead and spring Chinook. Both runs of fish have been depressed in recent years, but anglers are optimistic that this will change in 2022.

The river has remained somewhat high for spring standards, a reflection of snow-melt and a record amount of rainfall we’ve experienced this spring.

MUCH MORE DETAIL IN OUR FULL VERSION. Subscribe HERE.

Avid angler Jeff Stoeger reports, “Hello All. Well, this week we will see a bump in the river going up to almost 12ft due to rain and the freezing level going up. The report I received this week and pictures from fishing buddies is that there is a lot of fish in the upper river near Cedar Creek to Dodge Park. There were some very bright fish as well as some dark down river fish. There was good catches of springers in mid river in Oxbow to Dodge Park area. The river has been ideal in color and water temp has been around 45 degrees but have been on the high side. There has been some real nice native fish returning that have been in mid-teens and nickel bright.”

Detroit Reservoir: Detroit was stocked this past week with 4,000 trophy trout. Levels continue going up. As of right now, Detroit Lake surface elevation is currently at 1560 feet, so both the main upper and the lower ramps are accessible. This is near full pool level. Check the water levels here: https://waterdata.usgs.gov/or/nwis/uv?site_no=14180500

Josh Pardee reports some great kokanee fishing – with one angler catching a few 15 to 16” kokes, and more in the 12-to-14-inch range.

Willamette River – Middle Fork:

The middle fork jumped up last weekend and currently at 5930 CFS. Too high to be fishable. Water temperatures vary up and down around between 46 to 50 degrees.

Baetis imitations will prove effective, as well as general searching patterns including pheasant tails, BH thorax, prince nymph variations and twists.

Check out the upcoming stocking schedule HERE.

Find the full report and forecast for Members on the Sandy and the Clackamas from this page here.

It won’t be long before halibut, ocean salmon, bottomfish and crab draw more anglers out to sea in hopes of a wonderful bounty. Let’s make sure we obey the laws and keep each other safe this boating season!

This just in, reader Clifford Rone shared this bit of news for a boater that ignored the Tillamook Bay bar crossing restriction and paid a several thousand dollar fine because of it. CHECK IT OUT HERE!

And we want you to be safe too! That’s why The Guide’s Forecast has produced this fine ocean bar and safety video for your viewing FREE! Check it out and pass it along, let’s pray for a safe and prosperous boating season this year!

North Coast Fishing Report – With steelhead season largely over and anglers anxiously awaiting for spring Chinook to arrive in more catchable numbers, north coast anglers are often looking west to see what bottomfishing opportunities exist for anglers to participate in. Well, with the ocean still angry, there isn’t a lot of activity for anglers to participate in.

There have been spring Chinook reported from the Trask River, where fish are more likely to concentrate, theoretically making them easier to find. Water levels on the Trask have been fluctuating up and down, but have largely remained in good enough condition to allow anglers to successfully score if fish could be located.

May is a good month for numbers of springers building in the Trask River and with all of Tillamook Bay’s “eggs” in the Trask River basket, it’s a good river system to target spring Chinook under good water conditions, which in of itself, can often be low and clear this time of year.

The good river flow is certainly having benefits for the hundreds of thousands of coho and steelhead smolts headed downstream this time of year.

Bob’s Sellwood springer Chinook 04-26-22

There have also been reports of spring Chinook from Tillamook Bay. Rumor has it, there’s been some troll-caught springers taken from the west channel. Undoubtedly, there’s likely been a few taken at the Memaloose Boat Ramp too, likely on the 2nd half of outgoing tide. There are certainly springers in the bay, if there’s springers in the Trask.

See the full report and forecast for Members right here.

Central Oregon Fishing Report – Contributor Glenn Zinkus reports bi-weekly.

The Lower Deschutes is steady – currently right around 3650 CFS in Madras and 5750 CFS at Moody. Water access is good, with summer-like flows along the Warm Springs stretch.

Temperatures on the lower portions of the river are in the 51 to 53 range at Madras and 54 to 58 degree range near Moody. These will likely be higher by the weekend.

Some of the first salmon flies are starting to show up in the grasses, but these are still few and far between.

Nymphs are a good way to go with continuing weather variability.

Middle Deschutes River: River level is just right. When I was last there, there was BWO and March Brown activity. The Middle Deschutes is starting to fish well now.

Our friend Josh Pardee reports that the Deschutes is fishing well in and around Bend for browns during April.

Jeff Perin at The Flyfisher’s Place in Sisters forecasts salmon flies this coming week on the Middle Deschutes.

Lake Billy Chinook: Jeff Perin at The Flyfishers Place reports good fishing for Bulls in the Metolius Arm.

Kokes, from all the reports, are still deep in depths of 85 to 145 feet. Effective colors include purple, pink, orange and brass.

As mentioned, there have been some incidental bull trout catches while koke fishing. Bull trout are also being caught at the same depths – nice sizes in and around 5 to 6 pounds.

SW Oregon Fishing Report – Contributor Jeff Rome reports:

While recent rains have been a blessing, they certainly have put a damper on the Spring Chinook, winter steelhead and off shore fishing as of late. Catches of all the above had been good to excellent prior to the beginning of this week and appears to be the same until mid next week. A small window of opportunity maybe on the Rogue Friday and Saturday before forecasted rains bring the flow up drastically.

Blustery conditions over at the coast will keep boats off the ocean this weekend. Maybe for those with enclosed cabins, some sport crabbing and/ or surf perch fishing out of Winchester Bay might be an option.

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The Guides Forecast · May 14, 2022

Portland/Metro Fishing Report

Clackamas River Fishing Report – After reaching “action level” on Saturday, the Clackamas fishing is back on track this weekend, with the likelihood of both spring Chinook and summer steelhead available to both bank and boat anglers. Effort this week was predictably low with the high water event.

The creel program was set to launch, except then this happened (see below). Historically however, spring Chinook fishing is underway on the Clackamas and summer steelhead catches are improving as well.

Although no creel census was taken during the high water event, there may have been a few plunkers working the lower Clackamas in hopes of finding spring chrome. It’s likely however, few anglers were motivated given the recent history of poor returns here, and less that hospitable water conditions. We get to skip right to the forecast.

There’s still a few wild winter steelhead in the upper reaches of the Clackamas, but it’s time to let them do their thing, spawn, that is.

Craig Mostul of Stevens Marine, Milwaukie store with a Willamette River caught hatchery winter steelhead destined for the Clackamas River. Craig caught the fish on a 3.5 Map Lip on January 29th, 2022

Avid angler Jeff Stoeger reports on the Sandy – What a week we saw on the Sandy last week. The river took a jump up to 13.5 ft and now the river is on the drop. I had a couple of buddies who fished the last couple of days, and they have had some good luck on summers from Oxbow to Cedar creek. There have been a few springers caught in the Oxbow to Dodge Park area and the river is ideal color and height. The forecast is for the river to take another bump over the weekend and climb to about 12ft. That should slowly drop over the next week. Spinners have been the ticket for summer steelhead in size 4 or 5 as well as beads in size 12mm and 14mm. There are some springers in the upper section of the river but most of them are natives. Spinners have been the ticket for entice them to bite. The lower river has produced summers and springers for those who have been fishing from rafts or drift boats.

Willamette River Fishing Report – Catch rates for Willamette River spring Chinook plummeted, as the river rose and blew out, peaking on Monday, May 9th. This section will be brief, we’re sidelined. I fished with about 17 or 18 other boats on Friday, yielding NO bites for a 4.5 hour effort, backtrolling divers and eggs as well as plugs. We saw just a single fish caught for the hours long effort, just above the I-205 bridge in Oregon City.

Turbidity has peaked and should be on a steady drop this week, maybe even getting motivated anglers out prior to the weekend. Anglers should get excited when the turbidity gets closer to 11 on the scale identified above. We have the turbidity table on our home page now HERE.

Steelhead catches weren’t all that flattering, but those are an incidental catch anyway.

Sturgeon catches in the lower river however were once again impressive. Not many people fishing for them (relatively speaking), but they are busy reeling up fish, keepers, shakers and oversize too!

Check out the upcoming stocking schedule HERE.

Find the full report and forecast for Members on the Sandy and the Clackamas from this page here.

Join us for the 28th Annual Spring Fishing Classic taking place on May 21, 2022 at Camp Withycombe. Find out more right here.

Columbia River Fishing Report – Fish numbers continue to impress biologists and stakeholders alike on the mainstem Columbia River. Industry officials have been clamoring for a re-opener since before the weekend. Experience shows us that after the first half of the run is over Bonneville Dam, springers get pretty finicky on when they want to strike. Success rates oddly drop after early May, despite the fish still being there. They may just be getting a bit excited to get upstream to meet their mates and likely know hot water is about to hit, further compromising their return to their natal systems.

Fishery managers met Wednesday however, to go over the facts and determine what opportunity may be left on the table for sport anglers to take advantage of. The news is good, albeit later than we had hoped for.

For the latest on Columbia River fishing regulations, visit https://myodfw.com/recreation-report/fishing-report/columbia-zone

So yes, starting Thursday, May 12th, anglers will once again be allowed back on the maistem Columbia, below Bonneville Dam, to harvest hatchery spring Chinook and steelhead. Remember, only 1 hatchery spring Chinook/day is allowed, all wild fish must continue to be released unharmed.

North Coast Fishing Report

Anglers are awaiting a stronger showing of spring Chinook before excitement triggers again for north coast anglers. Offshore weather is for crap, so most sensible sportboats will be sidelined at least until Saturday. It looks like it may be a volatile weekend for offshore weather.

With winter steelhead done, inland anglers can focus on what is likely to be a meager return of summer steelhead to the Wilson and Nestucca systems. It sounds like maybe 50,000 summer steelhead smolts get planted in each system, often yielding around a 1% return in poor ocean conditions so anglers could expect maybe 500 – 1000 returning adults to pursue. In good ocean conditions, biologists believe the Siletz return can be gauged at return rates closer to 4% – 5%. Summer steelhead returns have certainly been depressed in recent years, but it looks like many salmonid runs are making a come-back this year.

Effort has been low on the Siletz as of late, but that too will change as June and July roll around.

The bigger news on the north coast is always going to be spring Chinook in Tillamook Bay and the Nestucca system. The Nestucca always seems to realize later returning adults, destined for Three Rivers, but the Tillamook Bay/Trask River run is already underway. It may be feasible to expect a more normal return timing for Tillamook Bay springers since this year is not typical relative to recent years. It’s cooler, there’s more water in the district’s rivers and the ocean is very productive right now. It appears as if the run is already underway.

See the full report and forecast for Members right here.

More on our site - https://www.theguidesforecast.com/all-fishing-content-at-the-guides-forecast/

Oregon fishing updates 2022

Low Water Hampers Steelhead Success​

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In this TGF 101 course!​

Beginner anglers will learn: Week 1 Tuesday, February 15th, 2022​

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Find out more about becoming an Oregon Member here!​

TGF 101 is about to start!​

Find out more about becoming an Oregon Member here!​

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Find out more about becoming an Oregon Member here!​

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reports in your email on Thursday nights by signing up here.​

Find out more about becoming an Oregon Member here!​

Receive these SW Washington and Oregon fishing reports in your email on Thursday nights by signing up here.​

Find out more about becoming an Oregon Member here!​

Find out more about becoming an Oregon Member here!​

Receive these Oregon fishing​

reports in your email on Thursday nights by signing up here.​

Receive these SW Washington and Oregon fishing​

reports in your email on Thursday nights by signing up here.​

Find out more about becoming an Oregon Member here!​

Receive these Oregon fishing reports in your email on Thursday nights by signing up here.​

Find out more about becoming an Oregon Member here!​

Receive these Oregon fishing reports in your email​

on Thursday nights by signing up here.​

Find out more about becoming an Oregon Member here!​

Low Water Hampers Steelhead Success

Receive these SW Washington and Oregon fishing

reports in your email on Thursday nights by signing up here.

Find out more about becoming an Oregon Member here!

In this TGF 101 course!

Beginner anglers will learn:

Week 1 Tuesday, February 15th, 2022

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reports in your email on Thursday nights by signing up here.

Find out more about becoming an Oregon Member here!

TGF 101 is about to start!

Find out more about becoming an Oregon Member here!

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Find out more about becoming an Oregon Member here!

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reports in your email on Thursday nights by signing up here.

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Find out more about becoming an Oregon Member here!

Receive these Oregon fishing

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reports in your email on Thursday nights by signing up here.

Find out more about becoming an Oregon Member here!

Receive these Oregon fishing reports in your email
on Thursday nights by signing up here.

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on Thursday nights by signing up here.

Find out more about becoming an Oregon Member here!