Winter steelhead fishing is still slow, although a few hatchery winters that are being picked up in the lower reaches, from Feldheimer’s to the mouth, at the usual spots – Carver, Riverside, Meldrum, and Clackamette.

The river has been running clear and cold, making fishing challenging. Conditions should improve with warmer temperatures, which may trigger fish movement. 

USGS hydrological data for Feb. 26 shows river flows at 1,800 cfs water temperature at 39° F, and the gage at 11.82 ft. All of the readings come from the Estacada gauge near Milo McIver State Park. Hydrologic data and river forecasts can also be accessed on the NOAA/National Weather Service NW River Forecast Center -- NW River Forecast Center.