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EE Wilson Wildlife Area - 29555 Camp Adair Rd Monmouth, OR 97361

EE Wilson Wildlife Area - 29555 Camp Adair Rd Monmouth, OR 97361

ODFW seeks applicants for Fish Screening and Fish Passage Task Forces - apply by August 31
Katherine Nordholm, (503) 507-5843
Mac Barr, (503) 947-6256
SALEM, Ore. — ODFW is seeking applicants to serve on two public advisory committees that support its Fish Screening and Fish Passage Programs. These programs play a vital role in protecting native fish populations across the state. Through collaboration with landowners, agencies, and conservation partners, the programs work to keep fish moving safely through Oregon's rivers and streams.
There are two vacancies on both the Fish Screening Task Force and the Fish Passage Task Force. Applications are due by August 31.
In addition to managing a tax credit, grant, and cost share program, the ODFW Fish Screening and Passage Programs have a long history of successful accomplishments, including:
- Collaborating with fish passage barrier owners to address fish passage through the ODFW cost share program (ODFW 60%). A tax credit is also available to help offset landowner costs.
- Installing over 1,590 fish screens since 2000 and performing regular maintenance on approximately 1,300 fish screens across the state.
- Maintaining a statewide priority fish passage list with the 611 fish passage barriers with the highest impact to native migratory fish.
- Reviewing fish passage and screening projects to ensure compliance with guidance and criteria. During the first 5 months of 2025, ODFW reviewed and issued 66 fish passage approvals and 44 fish screen inspections, ensuring the projects met ODFW criteria and approved 2 fish passage exemptions after determining that fish passage would have no appreciable benefit to native migratory fish.
These efforts remove barriers that block access to critical spawning and rearing habitat and help prevent fish from becoming trapped in water diversions. The programs share credit for these accomplishments with two public advisory bodies, now in need of four new members.
"Both task forces are instrumental in the implementation of Oregon's Fish Screening Program and Fish Passage Policy," said Greg Apke, ODFW Fish Screening and Passage Program Manager. "Task Force members bring different perspectives into the fish screening and passage arena, which helps create a program responsive to fish and societal needs."
The Fish Passage Task Force
The ODFW Fish Passage Program administers the state's statutes and administrative rules related to the passage of native migratory fish in Oregon's rivers and streams. The nine volunteer members of the Fish Passage Task Force are appointed by the ODFW Director and are eligible to serve two 4-year terms. Fish Passage Task Force members represent water users or other owners of artificial obstructions, fisheries and conservation interests, and the general public.
The Fish Passage Task Force meets quarterly and advises the Department, the ODFW Director, and the Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission on matters related to passage, such as policy and program development and implementation, fish passage waivers and exemptions, funding, monitoring, reporting to the joint legislative committee, and project prioritization.
The Fish Passage Task Force has two vacancies, one for a Fishing and Conservation representative and one for a Public-At-Large representative.
The Fish Screening Task Force
The ODFW Fish Screening Program helps water users install and maintain fish screens to prevent fish from entering water diversions. The Fish Screening Task Force advises ODFW on program development, implementation, monitoring, technology, funding, and reporting. The seven members of the Fish Screening Task Force are appointed by the Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission. Three members represent agricultural interests, three members represent fishing or fish conservation interests, and one member represents the public at large. Members serve two-year terms and may be reappointed to serve for up to six years.
The Fish Screening Task Force has two vacancies, one representing agricultural interests and one representing fishing or fish conservation issues.
Additionally, over the next year, the Fish Screening Task Force will participate in a statewide prioritization of unscreened water diversions. There are over 55,000 surface water diversions in Oregon; many are authorized to operate without a fish screen. Water from these diversions is used for various purposes, including irrigation, livestock, commercial or domestic uses, and fire suppression. The impact of unscreened diversions, particularly on young salmon and steelhead migrating downstream, can be significant. Given that few of these water rights are required to have fish screening, voluntary cooperation from water users is critical to protect native fish at these diversions. Prioritizing helps ensure that limited resources are maximized.
How to Apply
Task Force members represent a wide range of groups and interests throughout Oregon, helping create programs responsive to the needs of fish and the diverse social needs of all Oregonians. This is a valuable opportunity to get directly involved by learning more about fish screening and passage issues and contributing to program recommendations.
ODFW is committed to ensuring the Fish Passage and Screening Task Forces represent the age, racial, ethnic and gender diversity of Oregon. The Department is also committed to ensuring the Task Force has a diverse geographic composition, representing people from all parts of the state. Prospective board members should demonstrate the ability to bring the perspective of people with different backgrounds, experiences, and identities to Task Force deliberations and outcomes.
Individuals interested in serving on either task force can apply by completing the application form found on either the Fish Screening Task Force website or the Fish Passage Task Force website. Applications or questions about either task force can be e-mailed to Fish.passage@odfw.oregon.gov. Completed applications may also be sent by mail to, ODFW Fish Screening Program, 4034 Fairview Industrial Drive SE, Salem, OR 97302. Applications are due by August 31.
Commission adopts limited Umpqua River fall Chinook season
Adam Baylor, adam.c.baylor@odfw.oregon.gov, (503) 930-7116
Michelle Dennehy, michelle.n.dennehy@odfw.oregon.gov, (503) 931-2748
PENDLETON, Ore. ‐ The Fish and Wildlife Commission adopted a limited fall Chinook fishing and retention season on the mainstem Umpqua, Smith, and North Fork Smith rivers after receiving many public comments and hearing testimony from a Douglas County Commissioner, business owners and local anglers concerned about a proposed closure.
The season will be open Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays starting July 1 until a quota of 500 wild Chinook is reached. The bag limit will be one Chinook (either hatchery or wild) per day and per season. Boundaries for the three rivers remain as in permanent regulations.
The days-per-week approach should extend the fishery later into the season and allow ODFW to better evaluate when the quota is reached.
This is the first time the Umpqua River has dropped below the Critical Abundance Threshold (CAT) since the Coastal Multi-Species Conservation and Management Plan (CMP) was adopted in 2014. Last year's return of fall Chinook to the Umpqua was the lowest on record since 1980. The CMP calls for discontinuing wild harvest when populations fall below CAT, but allows for adaptive management such as the approach in the Umpqua River this year.
"We have talked for a couple years now about how conditions in the Umpqua River are very concerning for salmon and steelhead due to impacts from wildfire, drought, warming streams and non-native predators," said Tom Stahl, ODFW Deputy Fish Administrator for Inland Fisheries. "The outcomes from these conditions are now being felt with last year's extremely low return and discussions over how this affects the fishery are difficult for everyone."
"It's very hard to realize such an iconic river as the Umpqua is struggling," said Commissioner Becky Hatfield-Hyde. "I am very thankful ODFW staff have come up with some options, and we ask the public to hang in there with us and help us figure out how to look toward the future."
This quota system will be a new approach for inland coastal Chinook salmon, and maintains fishing opportunity on the Umpqua River while still meeting the management direction of the CMP.
All other fall Chinook seasons were adopted as originally proposed by staff. Except for a few other locations, most other river basins will have the same regulations as last year. For more information about coastal fall Chinook seasons, visit the coastal fall salmon webpage.
The Commission also took the following actions today:
Commercial coastal pelagic species: Adopted rule amendments to ensure that state regulations are consistent with the Federal Register publication of federally adopted limits and management measures for Pacific sardine. The federal regulations will maintain the primary directed fishery closure and continue to limit other harvest to very low levels to ensure that fishing mortality is not interfering with the stock's potential to rebuild when environmental conditions become favorable.
Preference Point Appeals: Reviewed appeals of requests to reinstate preference points from several hunters that have been denied reinstatement by the department. Appeal was denied.
Auction and raffle tags: Allocated special hunting tags for auction and raffle in 2026. Host organizations receive 10 percent of the sales price for the tag sold at auction, which they can use to fund their own grant programs benefiting wildlife.
Access & Habitat project funding: Approved the A&H Board recommendations for project funding.
Oregon Conservation and Recreation Fund (OCRF) funding: Approved OCRF Advisory Committee's recommendations for wildlife passage project funding.
Recreation and Enhancement (R&E) Program: Approved the R&E Board funding recommendations for Cycle 25-1 Projects and the 2025-27 R&E Administration and Operations Budget. R&E funds help improve fisheries and access throughout the state.
The Commission also heard a staff presentation and public testimony on proposed rules to help protect Oregon's fish and wildlife from invasive species by adding to the prohibited species list (so no import, sale, purchase, exchange or transport allowed) the following: golden mussels, non-native abalone, sea turtles Cheloniidae and Dermochelyidae, the entire family of Viviparidae mystery snails and Muricidae oyster drills. Public comment for this rulemaking closes June 20, and the Commission will be asked to approve the rule amendments at their Aug. 15, 2025 meeting. Submit comments via the rulemaking page.
The next Commission meeting is July 11 in The Dalles.
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Commission meets June 12-13 in Pendleton
Adam Baylor, (503) 947-6012
Michelle Dennehy, (503) 931-2748
SALEM Ore. – The Fish and Wildlife Commission meets June 12-13 for a field tour on Thursday and a regular meeting Friday.
See the agenda here. The meeting will also be livestreamed from the Commission page.
To testify on an agenda item virtually, register on the agenda page at least 48 hours in advance (by Wednesday, June 12 at 8 a.m.). Instructions for registering to provided testimony and links for submitting written testimony are provided on the meeting agenda.
To testify during the public forum section about an issue that is not on the agenda, use the form on the agenda page, at least 48 hours in advance of the meeting. To submit comments, use the link provided with each agenda item (see "Submit written comments on this agenda item Here").
Thursday's tour begins at 8:15 a.m. at the building site for ODFW';s future Pendleton office, 1502 SW 37th St. Members of the public may join the tour but must provide their own transportation and lunch.
On Friday, the Commission meeting starts at 8 a.m. at The Vert Auditorium at Pendelton City Hall, 480 SW Dorion Ave.
At Friday's meeting, the Commission will be asked to approve:
2025 Coastal River Fall Chinook Regulations: Adopt fishing regulation changes for Oregon coastal Wild Fall Chinook. Forecasts for wild Chinook are similar to last year for most river basins. The most significant change proposed is for the Umpqua River; most of the mainstem would be closed to all salmon fishing under the proposal (bank angling for hatchery Chinook would be allowed from the tips of the jetties to Hwy 101). Last year's return of fall Chinook to the Umpqua was the lowest on record since 1980 and forecasts for the last four out of five years have overpredicted returns. For more information about coastal fall Chinook seasons, see the agenda item or the coastal fall salmon webpage.
Commercial coastal pelagic species: Adopt proposed rule amendments to ensure that state regulations are consistent with federally adopted limits and management measures for Pacific sardine. The federal regulations will maintain the primary directed fishery closure and continue to limit other harvest to very low levels to ensure that fishing mortality is not interfering with the stock's potential to rebuild when environmental conditions become favorable.
Preference Point Appeals: Review appeals of requests to reinstate preference points from several hunters that have been denied reinstatement by the department.
Auction and raffle tags: Allocate special hunting tags for auction and raffle in 2026. Host organizations receive 10 percent of the sales price for the tag sold at auction, which they can use to fund their own grant programs benefiting wildlife.
Oregon Conservation and Recreation Fund (OCRF) funding: Approve OCRF Advisory Committee's recommendations for wildlife passage project funding.
Recreation and Enhancement (R&E) Program: Approve the R&E Board funding recommendations for Cycle 25-1 Projects and the 2025-27 R&E Administration and Operations Budget. R&E funds help improve fisheries and access throughout the state.
The Commission will also hear a staff presentation and take public testimony on proposed rules to help protect Oregon's fish and wildlife from invasive species by adding to the prohibited list (so no import, sale, purchase, exchange or transport allowed) the following: golden mussels, non-native abalone, sea turtles Cheloniidae and Dermochelyidae, the entire family of Viviparidae mystery snails and Muricidae oyster drills. Public comment for this rulemaking closes June 20, and the Commission will be asked to approve the rule amendments at their Aug. 15, 2025 meeting. Submit comments via the rulemaking page.
The Commission will meet in executive session to consider information or records that are exempt by law from public inspection, and to consult with legal counsel concerning the legal rights and duties of a public body with regard to current litigation or litigation likely to be filed as authorized by ORS 192.660 (2)(f) and (2)(h). Members of the media can attend the Executive Session but may not report on anything heard during that session. Media wishing to attend should contact the Director's office at (503) 947-6044.
Reasonable accommodation, such as assistive hearing devices, sign language interpreters, and materials in large print or audiotape, will be provided as needed. To ensure availability, please contact the Director's Office at (503) 947-6044 at least 48 hours prior to the meeting to make your request. TTY users can reach ODFW by using the Oregon Telecommunications Relay Service. Please dial 711 and ask to connect to 503-947-6044.
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Lookingglass Creek open for spring Chinook fishing June 18 to June 29
Ethan Brandt, (541) 805-0856, ethan.j.brandt@odfw.oregon.gov
LA GRANDE, Ore. – Lookingglass Creek, a tributary to the Grande Ronde River at Palmer Junction, will open for spring Chinook fishing Wednesday, June 18 through Sunday, June 29. The open area is from the mouth upstream to the confluence of Jarboe Creek.
After early season projections made it appear impossible for a fishery to be open, a late push of Lookingglass fish have recently crossed over Bonneville Dam. Not only are more fish coming up the river, but there have also been a decent number of fish trapped at the Lookingglass weir. With these two factors combined, projections are now looking good for a fishery.
"This has been a unique year for predicting the run to Lookingglass. Based on data from tagged fish, Lookingglass Creek Chinook are still coming over Bonneville Dam," said Ethan Brandt, ODFW District Fish Biologist in La Grande. "A few weeks ago, when using the average run timing, the chance for enough fish to return to make up the gap to have a fishery was slim to none."
For Oregon spring run Chinook to still be coming over Bonneville this late is rare. Most years, the run of Lookingglass fish over Bonneville is completely done by mid-June. After thinking that this fishery would not be open this year, it is exciting that the streak of open years can continue for the fourth year.
Anglers may retain two adipose fin-clipped Chinook adults and five adipose fin-clipped jacks per day. Jack salmon are less than 24 inches in length. Anglers do not need to record jack catch on their combined angling tags, but it is illegal to continue fishing for jack Chinook once the adult bag limit is met. Unmarked (wild) fish must be released carefully and unharmed.
Lookingglass Creek anglers are restricted to artificial flies and lures while fishing for salmon. The use of bait is prohibited in order to protect bull trout, a threatened species.
Anglers should be aware that private timberlands open to public access border a majority of the area open to sport fishing, and private residences downstream of the Moses Creek Lane Bridge are not open to public access. Anglers are reminded to respect all private property by picking up trash when leaving and respecting the privacy of nearby residents.
Additionally, there is construction occurring at the Lookingglass hatchery. Large equipment may be going up and down the road during the day. Anglers will need to make sure they are parked well off the road so that equipment can get through.
Anglers are also reminded to ensure they have both Columbia Basin Endorsement and Combined Angling Tag in addition to their fishing license.
For the latest on Northeast Oregon and Snake River fishing in-season regulation changes, visit:
https://myodfw.com/recreation-report/fishing-report/northeast-zone
https://myodfw.com/recreation-report/fishing-report/snake-zone
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Anglers can keep two Columbia River hatchery Chinook June 6-15
Jeff Whisler, 971-673-6024
Michelle Dennehy, (503) 931-2748
CLACKAMAS, Ore.—Fishery managers from Oregon and Washington expanded recreational spring Chinook days and retention on the mainstem Columbia River during a joint state hearing yesterday.
There is remaining harvest allocation available for increased spring Chinook opportunity while staying within allowed ESA-impact rates and other management limits. The following changes were adopted yesterday:
- Fishing on the mainstem downstream of Bonneville Dam has been extended through June 15, the last day of the spring season. It had been scheduled to close June 12. (The mainstem fishery between Bonneville Dam and the Oregon/Washington state line was already scheduled to continue through June 15.)
- In both of these fisheries, anglers can keep up to two adult hatchery salmonids (Chinook or steelhead) per day, including two adult hatchery Chinook, beginning on June 6. Prior to June 6, anglers were limited to one hatchery Chinook in the two salmonid daily adult bag limit.
- Angling for salmon/steelhead from a boat will be allowed up to the Bonneville Dam deadline June 6-15. Prior to this, the area from Beacon Rock to Bonneville Dam deadline was restricted to bank anglers.
See the updated regulations for the spring season.
All other permanent regulations apply. Anglers are reminded that from March 1 through June 15 on days when the mainstem Columbia River recreational fishery below Bonneville Dam is open to retention of Chinook, the daily salmonid bag limit in Oregon and Washington Select Areas will be the same as mainstem Columbia River bag limits.
Summer season fisheries begin June 16 and adult Chinook retention will be closed due to a combination of the low forecast and allocation guidelines for summer Chinook. However, retention of jack hatchery Chinook and hatchery steelhead will be open and sockeye retention will be open from June 22-July 6. See the news release and the pre-season regulations for more details. The Columbia River regulation updates page will be updated with summer season dates closer to the start of the season.
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OHRC Board to meet in Corvallis on June 17
Kerrie Tarkinton, (541) 757-5101
CORVALLIS, Ore. — The Oregon Hatchery Research Center Board will meet in Corvallis on Tuesday, June 17 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Oregon State University, Nash Hall Room 032, 2820 SW Campus Way.
In addition to the regularly scheduled items, the agenda includes OHRC research updates, an update on OHRC-related bills in the Legislature, and planning for the 2025-27 biennium.
The meeting is open to the public and can be attended in person or by using the Zoom link provided below.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://oregonstate.zoom.us/j/93605177629?pwd=5cLaWbCFHy6vO34nR1wQK6jVbjy0qb.1
Password: 293990
Phone Dial-In Information
+1 971 247 1195 US (Portland)
+1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)
+1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC)
Meeting ID: 936 0517 7629
Join by Polycom/Cisco/Other Room System
93605177629@zoomcrc.com
The OHRC is a cooperative research project between the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife and Oregon State University, and the Board advises the OHRC Director on activities and functions related to the operation and maintenance of the OHRC.
Reasonable accommodations will be provided as needed for individuals requesting assistive hearing devices, language interpreters, or large-print materials for the meeting. Individuals needing these types of accommodations may call program staff at 541-757-5101 at least 24 hours in advance of the meeting.
Find more information about the Oregon Hatchery Research Center.
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ODFW holds online public meeting on draft management plan for Southern Resident Orcas
Michelle Dennehy, michelle.n.dennehy@odfw.oregon.gov, (503) 931-2748
Meghan Dugan, meghan.c.dugan@odfw.oregon.gov, 541-315-6629
SALEM, Ore. — The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife is hosting a public meeting to review the agency's draft Endangered Species Management Plan for Southern Resident Orcas (SRO). The online-only meeting is July 9 from 6:30 p.m. – 8 p.m.
ODFW staff will give a brief presentation of SRO life history and biology, then present information from the draft plan and take public comments. The draft plan is posted online here.
Comments about the draft plan can be emailed to ODFW Southern Resident Orca Coordinator Howard Takata at Howard.K.Takata@odfw.oregon.gov until July 15.
After considering comments, ODFW will then present a final draft management plan to the Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission for adoption during their Aug. 15 meeting in Salem. The final draft plan will be posted online at least two weeks in advance of the meeting. Public comments on the final draft plan for the Commission can be submitted using this page.
SROs are a distinct population of orcas native to the eastern North Pacific Ocean. Their population is estimated to number just 74 orcas in three pods (J, K, and L). The Oregon coast is a travel corridor for the K and L pods as they move between feeding areas to the north and south. They have been listed as Endangered under the federal ESA since 2005, by the state of Washington since 2004, and by Oregon since 2024.
The meeting can be joined online or phone:
Virtual meeting:
Join the meeting now
Meeting ID: 232 833 330 890 4
Passcode: RU92Dx3FDial in by phone
+1 503-446-4951,,994643264# United States, Portland
Find a local number
Phone conference ID: 994 643 264#
NOAA Fisheries photo: ODFW developed a draft management plan for Southern Resident Orcas and is looking for public comment during a July 9 public meeting.
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ODFW seeks applicants for two positions on the State Access and Habitat Program Board
Travis Schultz, (503) 947-6087, Travis.R.SCHULTZ@odfw.oregon.gov
SALEM, Ore.—Do you have a love of hunting and passion for wildlife conservation? Are you knowledgeable about forestry and/or agriculture? If so, there are vacancies for a Landowner Representative and a Hunter Representative on the Access & Habitat (A&H) Board.
Applications are being accepted by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife through June 27, 2025. Application forms are available here.
Individuals with knowledge and experience in hunting, wildlife conservation, forestry or agriculture are encouraged to apply. A&H Board members are appointed to four-year terms by the Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission (Commission). One Landowner Representative has reached the two-term limit and one Hunter Representative's first term is ending but they are eligible to apply for a second term.
The A&H Board is made up of seven volunteers — three hunter representatives, three landowner representatives, and the Chair — who review and recommend wildlife habitat improvement and hunter access projects to the Commission.
The A&H Board meets four times each year in various locations throughout the state to review project funding applications, hear public testimony and act as liaisons between the program and the public. Hunter Representatives review project proposals from a hunter's perspective and ensure hunters' wants and concerns are addressed whereas Landowner Representative ensures landowner views are incorporated into projects.
See the A&H Program webpage and most recent A&H Biennium Report for additional information on the A&H program. Please contact Travis Schultz at (503) 947-6087 if you have any questions on the position.
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ODFW and Baker County Parks to host Free Fishing Day event at Holcomb Park June 7
Ethan Brandt, ODFW La Grande District Fish Biologist (541) 805-0856, ethan.j.brandt@odfw.oregon.gov
Doni Bruland, Baker County Parks (541) 519-1718 Doni dbruland@bakercountyor.gov
BAKER CITY, Ore. – ODFW along with Baker County Parks will host a Free Fishing Day event at Holcomb Park, Brownlee Reservoir, on Saturday, June 7 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
This event is designed to help kids and their families learn fishing basics and enjoy a day outside. ODFW will provide rods and tackle on a first-come, first-served basis. Staff and volunteer angling instructors will be available to offer assistance and answer questions.
Registration is not required, and fishing is free. Parking will also be free for the event on Saturday. Additionally, there will be representatives from law enforcement to conduct free boat safety and aquatic invasives inspections.
Brownlee Reservoir is home to world-class warmwater fishing for bass, crappie, and catfish. For more information about fishing opportunities, including stocking schedules, maps, and guides, visit www.myodfw.com and check under the "Fishing" tab.
ODFW hosts similar fishing events around the state in addition to hunting and fishing workshops for all ages.
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Columbia River 2025 summer/fall salmon and steelhead seasons announced
Jeff Whisler, (971) 673-6024
Michelle Dennehy, (503) 931-2748
CLACKAMAS, Ore.—Oregon and Washington fishery managers have finalized preseason planning for 2025 Columbia River summer and fall recreational salmon and steelhead fisheries.
Forecasts for summer steelhead, sockeye, fall Chinook, and coho will allow opportunity for anglers to target these fish. The planned 2025 fall-season fisheries are primarily limited by the expected harvest of upriver bright fall Chinook which is subject to catch-sharing agreements with the Columbia River treaty tribes under the U.S. v. OR Management Agreement. As has been the case in recent years, added protections are also necessary for ESA-listed Lower Columbia River (LCR) fall Chinook and summer steelhead.
SUMMER SEASON (June 16-July 31)
For the summer season, retention of jack hatchery Chinook and hatchery steelhead will be open starting June 16 from the Astoria-Megler Bridge upstream to the Highway 395 Bridge in Pasco, WA. Due to the low summer Chinook forecast of 38,000 adults and allocation guidance, adult Chinook retention will be closed in summer season fisheries downstream of Priest Rapids Dam.
The sockeye return is forecasted to be 350,200 fish, which is down from last year's record return of more than 760,000 Columbia River sockeye but still provides room for a couple weeks of fishing. Retention of sockeye will be allowed June 22-July 6; all sockeye are considered adults in the bag limit. When open to sockeye retention, the daily adult bag limit is two salmon/steelhead, but only one may be a hatchery steelhead and only one may be a sockeye. When sockeye retention is closed during the summer season, the daily adult bag limit is one hatchery steelhead. Anglers must stop fishing for jack salmon after taking a daily limit of adult salmon or steelhead.
FALL SEASON (Aug. 1-Dec. 31)
This year's adult fall Chinook forecast of 736,200 fish is higher than last year's actual return of 669,505 fish. The Columbia River coho forecast of 342,100 adults is lower than last year's return of 603,240 fish. Chinook and coho retention seasons start Aug. 1 and vary by river section, please see the preseason summer/fall Columbia River fishery regulations and the WDFW-ODFW Columbia River summer/fall fishery plan for details. This year's regulations include mark-selective retention rules for Chinook during a portion of the Buoy 10 fishery and salmon/steelhead angling closures upstream of west Puget Island when Chinook retention is prohibited. These additional measures are intended to help manage fishery impacts to ESA-listed stocks and to increase the stability of the planned season structure.
"While fall salmon forecasts are mixed this year, the lower river tule-stock Chinook and upriver bright Chinook forecasts are a bit higher than last year's actual returns. We have been able to work with our co-managers and the public to craft some excellent fishing opportunities for this fall season including more non-mark-selective days for Chinook in the popular Buoy 10 fishery," said Jeff Whisler, ODFW's Columbia River Fisheries Manager. "If an in-season review of the upriver bright Chinook stock indicates a return higher than the preseason forecast, we may be able to provide Chinook opportunity beyond the preseason plans."
SUMMER STEELHEAD
While steelhead are challenging to forecast, the 2025 forecast for upriver summer steelhead is very poor and fishery managers are planning for another low return. In recognition of the expected low abundance, anglers will see conservative retention regulations again in 2025, similar to recent years. Even at these low returns, some hatchery fish are still available for harvest; regulations are meant to reduce harvest of hatchery fish and incidental mortalities of wild fish from what would be allowed at typical abundances.
Hatchery steelhead retention will be allowed through July 31 from the Astoria-Megler Bridge upstream to The Dalles Dam and through Aug. 31 from The Dalles Dam upstream to the Highway 395 Bridge in Pasco, WA with a reduced bag limit of one fish.
After retention of summer steelhead closes in each area, it is expected to remain closed through the end of the year. However, winter steelhead retention will open under permanent regulations beginning Nov. 1 downstream of The Dalles Dam.
Protective regulations for steelhead will also include Thermal Angling Sanctuaries in Eagle Creek, Herman Creek, and the Deschutes River as well as in the Columbia River near the mouths of these tributaries (see the website for maps and detailed descriptions of these sanctuary areas). The John Day Arm (lower John Day River, downstream of Tumwater Falls) will also be closed to angling for salmon and steelhead from Sept. 1 through the end of the year.
The low forecast may also impact steelhead fishing on tributaries like the Deschutes, John Day and Grand Ronde. Tributary fishery managers keep a close eye on actual summer steelhead returns over Bonneville Dam starting July 1 and will take appropriate action in keeping with management frameworks if actual returns come in at critically low levels. For more information, visit the Columbia Basin steelhead management page. Anglers are reminded to check for in-season changes to permanent regulations for tributary fisheries at MyODFW.
FIND MORE INFORMATION
Detailed preseason regulations with season dates and bag limits by area are available at https://www.dfw.state.or.us/fish/OSCRP/CRM/index.asp (see 2025 Preseason summer/fall Columbia River recreational fishery regulations (pdf). As always, regulations are subject to change based on in-season information on abundance and fishery performance. Anglers must always check Regulation Updates for their zone before fishing.
For more information about Columbia River fishing seasons, visit ODFW's online fishing reports at https://myodfw.com/recreation-report/fishing-report/columbia-zone. Summer and fall season regulations will also be posted on the regulation updates page before the seasons begin.
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Free fishing weekend June 7-8 in Oregon, family-friendly fishing events held statewide
Yvonne Shaw, ODFW, Yvonne.l.shaw@odfw.oregon.gov (503) 383-6859
OR local coordinator from the list online
SALEM, Ore.—Everyone can fish, clam and crab for free in Oregon on Saturday and Sunday, June 7-8, 2025.
No fishing/shellfish licenses or tags (including a Combined Angling Tag or Columbia River Basin Endorsement or Two-Rod Validation) are required on these days. Both Oregon residents and nonresidents can fish for free. Oregon State Parks also offers free parking and camping on Saturday, June 7.
All other fishing regulations apply including closures, bag limits and size restrictions. See the Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations for regulations. Remember to check MyODFW.com for any in season regulation changes, especially for salmon and steelhead fishing.
The Recreation Report is updated weekly and features the best bests for fishing for the upcoming week. Expect lots of rainbow trout to be stocked in Oregon's ponds and lakes for the weekend; check out the trout stocking schedule for more information and stocking locations.
Crabbing and clamming
Free Fishing Weekend is also a great weekend to try clamming or crabbing. MyODFW.com has all the information you need to get started clamming or crabbing including maps of locations and how-to's.
The Oregon Department of Agriculture regularly tests shellfish and closes areas when naturally occurring biotoxins get to levels that make crabs and clams unsafe to eat. As of today, razor clamming is open from Cascade Head (just north of Lincoln City) to the Washington border but closed south of Cascade Head to the California border due to elevated levels of domoic acid. Crabbing is open coastwide.
Closures can happen quickly and may change before Free Fishing Weekend. Remember to call the ODA Shellfish safety hotline at 1-800-448-2474 or check their Shellfish page before you go. Harvesting status is available in English, Español, русский, 中国人, Tiếng Việt, 한국인 on the ODA website.
Free Fishing Weekend events
ODFW staff, volunteers, and a number of partner organizations will host events throughout the state on Free Fishing Weekend, bringing all the gear anglers need to get started. Staff and volunteers will hand out fishing equipment and be available to teach how to rig up, bait, cast, land, and clean your catch.
Events are being held at the following locations and times; see the Family Fishing Events page for more information.
Saturday, June 7
Clatskanie: Gnat Creek Fish Hatchery, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Estacada: Small Fry Lake at Promontory Park, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Eugene: Alton Baker Park, 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
Florence: Cleawox Lake, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.
Gaston: Henry Hagg Lake, 7 a.m-3 p.m.
Hebo: Hebo Lake, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.
Lakeside: Eel Lake, Tugman State Park, June 7, 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
Richland: Brownlee Reservoir, Holcomb Park, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Silverton: Silverton Marine Park, 8 a.m-3 p.m.
Sutherlin: Cooper Creek Reservoir, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.
Tualatin: Bass Pro/Cabela's on-site pond, 11 a.m-3 p.m. CANCELLED
Ukiah: Twin ponds, 9 a.m-12 p.m.
Sunday, June 8
Tualatin: Bass Pro/Cabela's on-site pond, 11 a.m-3 p.m. CANCELLED
Winchester Bay: Lake Marie, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Come out on June 7-8 to experience fishing, clamming and crabbing in Oregon and be sure to show us your catch. Submit your photos at MyODFW.com.
https://dfw.state.or.us/news/images/2025/Free-Fishing-Weekend-2025.jpg
Image: Free Fishing Weekend June 7-8,2025 in Oregon.
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Deadline extension: Grant opportunity to build wildlife crossings in Oregon OCRF seeks letters of interest for Wildlife Passage Infrastructure Projects
Reva Gillman, (541) 961-8421, odfw.ocrf@odfw.oregon.gov

SALEM, Ore. – ODFW's Oregon Conservation and Recreation Fund (OCRF) is now accepting letters of interest for its summer 2025 Wildlife Crossing Infrastructure Grant Opportunity, supporting capital construction projects that reduce wildlife-vehicle collisions and restore critical movement and migration pathways across Oregon.
Letters of Interest must be submitted before 11:59 p.m., on Sept. 19, 2025.
- Letter of Interest – Word document
- Letter of Interest – PDF version
The grant opportunity seeks to identify shovel-ready projects that include the construction or significant improvement of wildlife crossing infrastructure – such as bridges, culverts, overpasses, or tunnels – on Oregon roadways.
Proposals should be prepared for quick implementation, and funds must be expended by April 30, 2028.
Eligible projects:
- Wildlife passage infrastructure capital construction or improvement projects.
- Projects MUST include construction or significant improvement of a wildlife crossing infrastructure (e.g., bridge, culvert, overpass, tunnel) on a roadway. Related expenses such as engineering design and permitting are allowable.
- Monitoring and maintenance activities must be excluded from proposals or supported using other sources.
- No standalone projects for feasibility studies, site selection, or design are allowed.

OCRF has funded three major wildlife crossing projects so far; the Palensky Wildlife Underpass which was designed for northern red-legged frogs and other native amphibians, the Cackler Marsh bridge to aid beaver and northwestern pond turtle, and the wildlife pathway at the Mt. Ashland I-5 exit to benefit black-tailed deer and increase the diversity of species able to safely pass under the interstate.
Construction of the Palensky Wildlife Underpass was completed in late 2024, and the first seven months of monitoring shows the structure is already being used by dozens of small wildlife species, including salamanders, treefrogs, voles, shrews, snakes, lizards, and hundreds of individual northern red-legged frogs.
"These wildlife crossing structures are critical to reducing wildlife mortality from vehicle strikes," said Rachel Wheat, ODFW Wildlife Connectivity Coordinator. "The fact that so many species are using the Palensky crossing so quickly following construction illustrates how effective and needed these projects are."
For any questions on this grant opportunity, please email odfw.ocrf@odfw.oregon.gov or call 541-961-8421.
Photos:
A Northern red-legged frog uses the Palensky Wildlife Underpass, 2025. ODFW Photo.
Aerial view of the Palensky Wildlife Underpass off Hwy. 30 near Portland, Ore. Photo by CREST.

Area of mid-coast reopens to razor clam harvesting
ODA Shellfish Desk, 503-986-4726
Meghan Dugan, ODFW 541-315-6629
SALEM, Ore. – Razor clam harvesting is now open from the Washington/Oregon border to Cape Blanco, the Oregon Department of Agriculture and the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife announced today.
Razor clamming had been closed from Cascade Head to the California border. But marine biotoxin levels have tested below the alert level in the area that reopened (Cascade Head to Cape Blanco). Biotoxin levels remain elevated from Cape Blanco to the California border so this area remains closed.
People should always call the Shellfish Safety Hotline at 1-800-448-2474 before heading out to harvest shellfish or visit the ODA Recreational Shellfish Biotoxin Closures Webpage.
ODA will continue testing for shellfish toxins at least twice per month, as tides and weather permit. Reopening an area closed for biotoxins requires two consecutive tests with results below the closure limit. Visit MyODFW.com for recreational license requirements, permits, rules, and limits.
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Wildlife themed interpretative series on Saturdays in July, August
Jade Keehn, 541-857-2403, jade.e.keehn@odfw.oregon.gov

CENTRAL POINT, Ore. – Learn how to spot and identify animal tracks, splash around in a stream to check out aquatic bugs, and play "survival of the fish-est." Join the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, Jackson County Parks, and Rogue River Watershed Council for Wildlife Wisdom every Saturday from July 12 to Aug. 16.
The interpretive series is free to all, although park locations have small day-use parking fees (unless you have the Jackson County Parks Pass.)
July 12, 10 a.m. – 11:30 a.m., Cantrall Buckley County Park: Wiggly Water Explorers. Splash around with us to learn about the organisms that are a vital part of river ecosystems. Equipment is provided.
July 19, 10 a.m. – 11:30 a.m., Joseph Stewart State Recreation Area: Under the Turtle Shell. Life is better under the turtle shell, and you'll learn why at this program which focuses on Oregon's two native turtle species.
July 26, 10 a.m. – 11:30 a.m., Joseph Stewart State Recreation Area: Coats & Shoes, Animal Edition. You'll learn how to identify animal tracks, one of the only things wildlife leaves behind.
Aug. 2, 7 p.m. – 8:30 p.m., Joseph Stewart State Recreation Area: Flying Mammals Unleashed, the Nocturnal Life of Bats. This evening program will help you spread your wings of knowledge about Oregon's 15 species of bats – the state's only flying mammals.
Aug. 9, 10 a.m. – 11:30 p.m., Joseph Stewart State Recreation Area: Tracking Tails, Pursuit of the Wolfpack. We'll talk about the tools of the trade for wildlife tracking, and you'll have the chance to try some equipment while learning about Oregon's wolves.
Aug. 16, 10 a.m. – 11:30 a.m., Joseph Stewart State Recreation Area: Survival of the fish-est. The Wildlife Wisdom interpretive series ends with games, activities, and challenges. We'll put you to the test to see if you would survive the arduous life cycle of salmon. Wear comfy shoes.
For more information about this project, contact Beth Boos (bboos@rogueriverwc.org) or head to https://www.rogueriverwc.org/get-involved/calendar