2026 Winter Steelhead validation starting 2025

2026 Rogue South Coast Winter Steelhead Validation is required to target steelhead starting December 1.

Update: Dangerous algae bloom in Barnes Unit

ODFW is urging waterfowl hunters to use extreme caution with their dogs after laboratory results revealed high levels of microcystin in a water sample collected from

Mussel harvest closed Cape Blanco to CA border

Mussel harvesting is closed from Cape Blanco to the California border. 

Spencer creek closes to fishing Sept. 30 to protect salmon

Sept. 30 will be the last day to fish on Spencer Creek this year, as this tributary of the Klamath River will be closed as of Oct. 1 to protect spawning fall Chinook salmon.

Silver Creek Falls

Recreation Report

December 18, 2025

ACCESS A REPORT

ODFW Weekly Recreation Report

Includes updates to fishing, hunting, crabbing, clamming, and wildlife viewing.

December 18, 2025

Happy Holidays and a Merry New Year to all of you from all of us at ODFW. Check back in January for the next weekly recreation report.

The atmospheric river weather system crossing over Oregon caused flooding in many areas, including river blowouts and landslides. Check ODOT Trip Check online for statewide road conditions, closures and updates before you go.

2026 Sport Fishing and Big Game Hunting Regulations are available in stores and online.

2026 licenses are on sale now and make great gifts!

There is no two-rod endorsement on the Willamette River in 2026 due to low forecasts for hatchery spring Chinook. More information here.

Black bears can be hunted through Dec. 31. Scout seldom used roads and trail systems, particularly near marshy water sources with plenty of vegetation.

Check the Game Bird Hunting forecast 2025 as bird hunting seasons continue through late January 2026.

NEW turkey hunting opportunity: now through February 28, 2026, hunters may obtain a beardless turkey permit to allow the harvest of three hen wild turkeys or turkeys without a visible beard. See page 26 of the Game Bird regulations. This is a private land only hunt with separate regulations from the standard fall turkey hunt.

The Rogue- South Coast Steelhead season runs from Dec 1- Apr. 30. The Rogue-South Coast Steelhead Validation is required for all winter steelhead anglers fishing in the Rogue Basin or on the South Coast. A harvest tag is required to keep wild winter steelhead in this area. Check the regulations for details:

https://www.eregulations.com/oregon/fishing/southwest-zone

 

Find the weekly trout stocking schedule here.

Best bets for weekend fishing:

  • As a general reminder for Anglers: Maximize distance from bank anglers and other boats. Safely row or motor around anglers and other boats and avoid motoring nearshore and in shallow areas!
  • Heavy rain and flooding has blown out many rivers across the state. Fishing will improve next week, when water levels fall to normal. That makes now a good time to finish holiday shopping and your winter to do list!
  • Winter steelhead are in the North Fork Nehalem, Necanicum River, Big Creek, and Klaskanine Rivers. These streams get early returning hatchery steelhead and will provide the best opportunity for catching winter steelhead in December. Check for flood conditions before heading out.
  • Lost Creek Reservoir has had great reports by folks trolling for rainbow trout.
  • Steelhead fishing is good on the Umatilla River.
  • Approximately 400 brood trout were released recently at Haystack Reservoir. As a reminder, to allow everyone a chance at catching one of these fish, only one fish over 20 inches long can be harvested each day.
  • Anglers report excellent kokanee fishing at Lake Billy Chinook.
  • Steelhead fishing has been good on the Grande Ronde, Imnaha and Umatilla Rivers
  • Yellow perch fishing is still an option in Recreation Creek, Pelican Bay Area of Upper Klamath Lake, Sevenmile Canal Mouth, and Fourmile Canal.
  • Surplus brood trout from Oak Springs hatchery were stocked in Taylor Lake and Pine hollow this week
  • Crabbing in Newport is fair. Crabbing in Waldport has been good. Crab quality is good as shells have hardened and are full of meat.

These examples are for demonstration purposes only. Refer to the zone reports for more details and possibilities.

Hunter Education:

Hunter safety courses and field days are offered in-person or online, with an in-person field day. Find a course in your area and get a jump on it for the 2026 season!

For adults: Waterfowl workshops and events are happening in your area. Learn new tips and techniques and bring a friend! ODFW classes and workshops run statewide, throughout the year, designed for adults 18 and older. Take advantage of future learning opportunities.