Smallmouth bass fishing will steadily pick up as the water temperatures begin to warm. A temporary regulation started on May 22 allowing anglers in Coquille River system to use spears and spear guns to harvest smallmouth bass. Traditional rod and reel anglers can also use bait throughout the river system. This unique fishing opportunity is one of many efforts to reduce the impact of illegally introduced bass on Chinook populations.

River temperatures are in the low 60s and smallmouth bass are getting active. A recent spearfish angler reported water clarity in slightly stained but found a few bass to spear.   

Trout fishing in streams and rivers reopened on May 22.