Many public access points along the river are still closed from last year’s wildfires, including Fisherman’s Bend, and all recreation areas along the Little North Fork. But Packsaddle Park has recently re-opened, which is just below Minto Dam. Anglers can still access the river from Stayton downstream and in a few places above such as the Mehama bridge and North Santiam State Park.

No recent fishing reports. River levels best for fishing are at or below 3,000 cfs, and the river is currently running at 3,150 cfs at the gage in Mehama. Water clarity is good. These conditions are likely to change based on the expected rain forecasted for this week. 

Fishing for hatchery steelhead is open year-round but the run numbers were disappointingly low this year. Trout season has ended for the year and will start back up again on May 22.

The coho salmon run this year is shaping up well. About 23,000 have been counted at Willamette Falls so far crossing into the upper basin with more to come. About 450 adult fish have already arrived at the Bennett dam fish counting station in Stayton. Anglers are allowed to keep two fish per day. Although the entire river below Big Cliff dam is open, these fish tend to concentrate below Mehama. For bank anglers, best bets to intercept these fish are at I-5 rest stop, Jefferson, Buell Miller County Park and Stayton Riverfront Park.

NOTICE: Fishermen’s Bend, Niagara County Park and Minto County Park are still closed due to wildfire damage. There are also sporadic traffic delays due to road repair and hazard tree removal along Hwy 22.

WARNING: There are several large downed trees in the river creating some dangerous hazards for boaters. For more information check out the Oregon State Marine Board website.