At the hatchery, (located on Cedar Cr) the first of this year’s winter steelhead have entered the Cedar Cr trap. Workers continued cleaning coho and some summer steelhead out as well. Coho continue to trickle through the Sandy, with large numbers of fish spawning in the upper tributaries.

It's early in the season, but in many ways now is a great time to get out and fish. The rivers are not crowded and any winter steelhead you catch will likely be bright and fresh from the ocean. Truly a better eating and better fighting specimen. Not to mention you will likely run into a few coho along the way. No matter what the report or river condition might be, you can’t catch fish at home and time spent on the water will always lead to greater success. 

Flow and visibility on the Sandy are greatly influenced by each passing front and change in snow levels. Colder temperatures, as well as less precipitation means this glacially-fed system will not only be on the drop but will also clear up much more quickly.

Anglers should confirm access before they go. All Metro Parks and boat ramps (including Dabney and Lewis and Clark) are now open but may have modified operations. Check conditions at individual parks on Metro’s website. State parks and recreation areas appear open.

USGS hydrological data for the Sandy near bull run.