Some access sites on the North Santiam above and below Detroit Reservoir were impacted by last fall’s wildfire. Some of the more popular sites such as Packsaddle Park and Fishermen’s Bend are still closed until crews can remove hazard trees. Anglers can still access the river from Stayton downstream and in a few places above such as the Mehama bridge. 

No recent fishing reports. River levels best for fishing are at or below 3,000 cfs, and the river is currently running at 2,700 cfs at the gage in Mehama. Water clarity is good. 

Anglers should be aware of a new regulation implemented this year. The use of bait is now only allowed April 22 through Oct. 31 from the mouth of the Santiam River up to Minto dam. Outside of those dates, anglers may use only artificial flies and lures. This regulation is in place to protect ESA-listed winter steelhead. 

Fishing for hatchery steelhead is open year-round. Chinook will begin to arrive in the basin in April. The first spring chinook of the year migrated into the Willamette this week, hopefully it’s the first of many. 

Anglers should be aware that trout harvest is now closed and will not re-open until May 22.