Montana Fish Report

The great NW fall salmon migration is in full swing
Salmon fishermen are out in force as Chinook continue their migration from the ocean into the Columbia River and its tributaries. This week there were more boats between Tongue Point and Bonneville Dam than in the estuary around Buoy 10, as these signature NW game fish move from the river mouth to Rainier, St. Helens, Portland, and over Bonneville Dam. Check out the Columbia River and Marine reports for details.

Fire danger high – check for restrictions
Many private lands are closed due to high fire danger and fire suppression resources stretched thin. Oregon Department of Forestry and OFIC keep an updated list of closures (pdf) on their web site. The chart also contains phone numbers to get the latest access information from timberland owners. Oregon Department of Forestry also has a helpful map of current fire restrictions.

Bird hunting seasons kick off Sept. 1
Forest grouse and mourning dove open statewide; California and mountain quail open in western Oregon, Hood River and Wasco counties. 

As temperatures rise, think warmwater fishing
As temperatures rise moving into summer, warmwater fish such as bass, crappie, and bluegill get more active, making them a good option this time of year. To learn more about this fun fishing activity, check out our Warmwater Fishing Page for ideas on when, where, and how to catch these fish. 

Free pheasant hunts for youth hunters – Sign up now
Free hunts are being held in Baker City, Central Point, Corvallis, Eugene, Irrigon, John Day, Klamath Falls, La Grande, Madras, Portland, The Dalles (Tygh Valley). These events are only open to youth who have passed hunter education. (ODFW has many hunter education classes and field days available before the events.) An adult 21 years of age or older must accompany the youth to supervise but may not hunt. More info.