SANTIAM RIVER (NORTH FORK):

Hwy 22 has been re-opened, although delays will continue and many access points to the river above Stayton, such as Packsaddle and Fisherman’s Bend, remain closed due to wildfire damage. 

No recent fishing reports. River levels best for fishing are at or below 3,000 cfs, and the river is currently running around 2,500 cfs

A few hatchery summer steelhead are still around. Fishing for hatchery steelhead is open year-round. 

The coho salmon run has slowed, with few fish passing Stayton in the past week or two. Coho can be found throughout the river but are more likely to be encountered below Mehama.  

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

NOTICE:  Packsaddle County Park, Niagara County Park, and Minto County Park are closed due to wildfire damage.

WARNING: There are several large downed trees in the river creating some very dangerous hazards for boaters. For more information check out the Oregon State Marine Board website.

SANTIAM RIVER (NORTH FORK) above DETROIT:

The highway along the upper North Santiam has re-opened but many places will look a lot different. Be aware that there are still many dangerous tree snags around with root structures weakened by fire and that could come down at any moment. It will be safer to fish in unburned areas further upstream (above Whitewater Creek).

In general, this river is open year-round to fishing. It was stocked several times during the summer. Most trout can be found from Marion Forks down to the mouth and are fairly well distributed. Flies and spinners work best, but bait is allowed. The river is flowing at around 700 cfs where it comes into Detroit Lake.

Anglers may keep up to five trout per day. Remember, this section of river is closed to salmon fishing.