08-21-2008, 11:10 AM
Near record run on the Rogue River
The lower Rogue River is currently experiencing the largest run of steelhead half-pounders since 2000. As of Aug. 15, 179,364 fish have entered the river. Half-pounders are young steelhead returning to the river in the late summer of their first year in the ocean. So-named because of their size, they stay in the Rogue through the winter, providing a popular fishery before returning to the ocean in spring. The run is especially popular with fly anglers, though spinners and worms will produce as well.
Wildlife Viewing Road Trip Stop: Portland to Astoria
ODFW's Gnat Creek Fish hatchery is located about 15 miles east of Astoria on Highway 30. There is a pond and fish food station with large rainbow trout and sturgeon. Two nature trails wind through a coast range forest, providing visitors with a one-mile walk upriver or a 1 ½-mile walk down river, with picnic tables, park benches and native plant interpretive signs along the way. The hatchery provides 2-½ miles of easy fishing access. For more information, visit ODFW's Web site.
New: Hunting Access Map
ODFW's new Oregon Hunting Access Map is a great tool to find out where to hunt, especially for people new to hunting or new to the state. Even experienced Oregon hunters are likely to discover a new hunting location by exploring the comprehensive list of opportunities in a centralized place. You can even use it to start scouting for archery season. Find out more
Bow tag sale deadline is Aug. 29
Archery hunters, don't forget you must purchase your tag by Aug. 29 (before the season opens Aug. 30). Remember to check fire restrictions and closures before heading out.
The lower Rogue River is currently experiencing the largest run of steelhead half-pounders since 2000. As of Aug. 15, 179,364 fish have entered the river. Half-pounders are young steelhead returning to the river in the late summer of their first year in the ocean. So-named because of their size, they stay in the Rogue through the winter, providing a popular fishery before returning to the ocean in spring. The run is especially popular with fly anglers, though spinners and worms will produce as well.
Wildlife Viewing Road Trip Stop: Portland to Astoria
ODFW's Gnat Creek Fish hatchery is located about 15 miles east of Astoria on Highway 30. There is a pond and fish food station with large rainbow trout and sturgeon. Two nature trails wind through a coast range forest, providing visitors with a one-mile walk upriver or a 1 ½-mile walk down river, with picnic tables, park benches and native plant interpretive signs along the way. The hatchery provides 2-½ miles of easy fishing access. For more information, visit ODFW's Web site.
New: Hunting Access Map
ODFW's new Oregon Hunting Access Map is a great tool to find out where to hunt, especially for people new to hunting or new to the state. Even experienced Oregon hunters are likely to discover a new hunting location by exploring the comprehensive list of opportunities in a centralized place. You can even use it to start scouting for archery season. Find out more
Bow tag sale deadline is Aug. 29
Archery hunters, don't forget you must purchase your tag by Aug. 29 (before the season opens Aug. 30). Remember to check fire restrictions and closures before heading out.