Despite the loss of smolts due to the Archie Creek fire, we have still been seeing a fair number of hatchery steelhead being caught. Steelhead fishing has slowed down during the cold, but fish have been caught in the Stanton Park area in decent numbers earlier this year. Once we get more rain and warmer temperatures, the South Umpqua may be a great place to harvest a winter steelhead.

Anglers are encouraged to submit steelhead snouts in barrels stationed at many boat ramps throughout the Umpqua drainage, or at the ODFW office in Roseburg. These snouts being used in a study to determine the best smolt release strategy to optimize angling opportunities while maintaining a healthy fishery. Anglers who submit snouts may be entered into monthly drawings for gift cards to Sportsman’s Warehouse. Email Levi.m.simmons@odfw.oregon.gov for more information on the program and locations of collection barrels.