By Ian Carter
There were no WDFW creel checks this week. The combination of Christmas, foul weather and calendar status of our fish runs generally translate to a slow week around here. My report this week reflects that harsh reality for us die hard fisherman.
REMINDER, please verify the regulations before fishing any body of water
Lewis Report
Considering all the rain, the Lewis was in great shape until a few hours ago. (it’s 9:30pm Wednesday). I thought we were going to escape without a major increase. The river is currently flowing at 11,500 cfs. The Lewis will probably still be the best conditioned area river going into the weekend.
The Cardai Hill Rock Quarry located on Hayes Road that I mentioned last week has been rejected by the county commissioners. Thanks to everyone who participated and made their voices known.
Kalama Report
I haven’t received any specific reports on the Kalama this week.
Cowlitz Report
Prior to the river completely blowing out there were mixed reports of some Steelhead action. It’s been hit and miss for most anglers. Plunkers were doing well. Tristan from Bob’s in Longview has been speaking to some folks. He says that he’s personally heard firsthand reports of 12-15 bright Steelhead taken on the Cowlitz.
The river flow rate is beginning to drop from a high of 34,400 cfs on Wednesday afternoon. Hopefully by the weekend, things will have settled down. Real time water flow data can be found here USGS-Cowlitz.
Washougal Report
No Report.
Elochoman Report
Tristan from Bob’s in Longview has heard a few good things about early Steelhead catches.
Naselle Report
No Angling reports. The upcoming larger tides may bring some fresh fish into the system.
Merwin – Is still producing limits of Kokanee, albeit taking some extra time and poking around.
Other Reservoirs – Riffe is still closed, and I have no reports from elsewhere.
Coastal Report
Razor Clams – Are still off limits. Notice from WDFW
Razor clam test results released on Dec. 23 indicate domoic acid levels on all beaches, remain above the health guidelines for safe consumption set by Washington Department of Health (WDOH) officials.
“While many had to change their holiday razor clamming plans, we are looking forward to some many excellent digging opportunities in the months ahead,” said Dan Ayres, WDFW coastal shellfish manager. “With that in mind, we’ll continue to work closely with our partners at WDOH to closely monitor razor clam toxin levels and reopen harvest as soon as clams are safe to eat.”
Squid Fishing – I’ve seen a few reports that indicate things have slowed down in the sound.
Crabbing – When the weather is permitting, crabbing is excellent. The folks in the sound have been doing well also.
Weather Prediction
The weather pattern appears to be improving and providing some great New Year’s Day outdoor opportunities. Precipitation is expected to be light Saturday and somewhat dry on both Sunday and Monday. The wind expectation is looking good as of this Wednesday, for Columbia Gorge fishing on Monday and Tuesday.
Check out our Oregon fishing report for the week.
