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 1,900 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. Now that we are in May, anglers may use bait again. 

Fishing for hatchery steelhead is open year-round. A few hundred early summer steelhead have arrived in the upper Willamette and will be making their way into tributaries, including the North Santiam, over the next few weeks. A handful have already reached the Stayton area.  Overall, however, this is shaping up to be a disappointing year for summer steelhead. 

Spring Chinook numbers at Willamette Falls have recently surged, indicating the beginning of the main run. Over 10,000 fish have crossed Willamette Falls on their way to tributaries upstream, including the Santiam basin. It will take about two weeks or so before these fish enter the Santiam. About 100 fish have reached the Stayton area but the bulk of the run is still downstream. Forecasts are for a run year about the same as last year or perhaps a bit higher.

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