Recreation Report

Highlights from this week’s Recreation Report:

Hunters: Sync your app before going into the field

If you’re e-tagging this year, here are some tips for tagging. Also, a few ideas for keeping paper tags dry.

See our 9 tips for tagging

Hunters: Sept. 27 is last day to buy bear and cougar tags

Even if your primary target is deer or elk, carrying a bear and/or cougar tag let’s you take advantage of unexpected opportunities. While you’re at it, check out our 10 ways to be a better cougar hunter.

Fall bird migrations make for great wildlife viewing

The fall migration of ducks, geese and other birds is underway across the state. Both serious birders and casual viewers look forward to this annual passage. Don’t miss out. Track down your binoculars and read the zone reports to find a great viewing spot near you.

Best bets for weekend fishing

• The non-selective ocean coho fishing will be open this Friday through Sunday.
• The daily halibut bag limit has been increased to two in the Central Coast and Southern Oregon fisheries.
• Several north coast lakes will be stocked with trophy trout this week.
• Recent rains have sent Chinook from the bays into several north and central coast rivers.
• Anglers are still catching adult and half-pounder steelhead on the Lower Rogue River.
• It’s coho time on the Sandy River.
• Fall can be a great time to hike into one of high elevation lakes ODFW stocks with trout. The weather can be great, the mosquitos are gone and the trout are trying to put on a few ounces in preparation for the cold winter months. Find more information on planning your hike-in fishing trip.
• Bird hunters in the area of the Umatilla and South Walla Walla forest ponds in Northeast Oregon should remember to take a rod with them and enjoy a cast-and-blast weekend.

Header photo by Kathy Munsel