Outdoor Report 1/17
Winter steelhead fishing remains a steady option for those that are needing to scratch the outdoor itch. Both coastal and valley rivers are producing fish. The number of fish may not be as high as years past, however, they are making up for it in size! We have received reports on nearly every river saying fish are above average in size. Making sure your leaders and mainline are in tip- top shape is paramount as you never know when you may hook the steelhead of a lifetime. Keeping your hooks sharp and leaders strong will give you the best chance possible. For float fishermen, pink worms, jigs, beads, and bait have all taken fish this week. With cold, clear conditions on a good portion of the rivers, stealthy presentations and darker colored jigs have been working well. With rain in the forecast rivers should be coming back up to that beautiful steelhead green that we all dream about. Sturgeon fishing has been another great option with lots of nice fish being caught in the Portland Harbor. Finding slow, deep holes that have an upstream drop off can be great places to target these prehistoric fish. Herring, sand shrimp and squid have all been productive baits this last week. Crabbing has been good for those braving the conditions. Typically, everyone thinks crabbing only applies to those that own boats. However, in many of the coastal bays you can access the north or south jetties where you can easily crab with a heavy-duty rod and reel. Crab Hawk folding crab traps, or crab snares, work extremely well and are a great alternative for those that are already headed down to bottom fish off the jetties. You can also fish more than one crab rod at a time. Therefore, between reeling in, changing bait, and loading crab into your bucket, you will stay busy and engaged all day long. Jetty fishing can be dangerous, especially in rough weather, so pick your days and be cautious. Also along the coast is the opportunity to fish for surf perch. These delicious fish inhabit the surf on nearly every beach you can think of. When you really dial their location in, the action can be fast paced. Small Berkley Gulp Sandworms, live sand shrimp, clam necks, and even nightcrawlers work. Make sure you are fishing a few baits at a time and it will help you dial-in exactly what they are wanting to eat.
Locally lakes and ponds continue to get stocked with delicious trout throughout the winter and can offer excellent opportunity for fishermen of all ages and skill levels. Fishing bait under a bobber or on the bottom are popular choices, especially right after the lake has been planted. Trolling small Mag Lips, Wedding Rings, and Flatfish are also great options when fishing from a boat.
Always be sure to check local regulations at ODFW and WDFW before heading out. Find reports and information on the Fisherman's Community page.
