1outdoorsman: Kalama Washington home of the steelhead

1outdoorsman: Kalama Washington home of the steelhead: "Each summer hundreds of anglers line the shores and tread the waters of the Columbia River in Kalama Washington seeking the prize fish that..."

Kalama Washington home of the steelhead

Each summer hundreds of anglers line the shores and tread the waters of the Columbia River in Kalama Washington seeking the prize fish that have made Kalama the home of the steelhead. In the past weeks thousands of fish have passed through the area seeking critical spawning habitat.

Located 30 minutes north of Portland off the I-5 Kalama is only a short drive from the city for some great fishing.  Steelhead are not the only fish that pass through as several species of salmon like the chinnook and sockeye have been caught in good numbers as well as white sturgeon and channel cats.

From the shore a popular fishing spot among the locals is next to the grain elevators off the Todd Rd. exit. A permit is required, which can be picked up at the port office about a half mile up the road free of charge.

A typical set up includes a six or eight ounce pyramid, a size 4 watermelon Spin-N-Glo, and coon shrimp or prawns attached with size two hooks on 25 lb. mono line. There are many different arrangements that can bring success and some anglers use as many as nine points while fishing.

Many natives have been caught this year and they must be released. Treble hooks are permitted but not recommended as they cause a great deal of harm to native fish lowering their chances of a successful release.

Be sure to watch the tide charts as the best fishing is during and after high tide which varies each day. The fish come in large waves so when someone up the beach hooks up be prepared because they are in the area.

1outdoorsman: Bull trout released in the upper Clackamas River E...

1outdoorsman: Bull trout released in the upper Clackamas River E...: "The US Fish and Wildlife service released the first bull trout into the upper Clackamas in what will be a 20 year effort to restore bull t..."

Bull trout released in the upper Clackamas River Estacada Oregon

The US Fish and Wildlife service released the first bull trout into the upper Clackamas in what will be a 20 year effort to restore bull trout to the ecosystem. With weak salmon and steelhead many question why a predatory fish that feeds on salmon and steelhead would be reintroduced into the system. Millions of dollars are spent each year on salmon and steelhead recovery efforts and some feel that their populations are not yet strong enough to sustain a sustaining bull trout population.

Only about 20 adults were released June 30^th with about 40 more adults in the coming weeks. They will also be accompanied by 1000 fry by the end of July. Some of the adults were equipped with tracking devices for monitoring purposes.

With such a small number of fish released there is not expected to be a major impact on salmon and steelhead populations. If there is a major impact there are contingency plans to remove the trout if necessary. The release is purely experimental as biologist attempt to understand how they might be able to restore bull trout to its native territory in the not too distant future.

The upper Clackamas is a catch & release single barbless hook zone. Anglers should be sure not to target, harass, harm, or even remove bull trout from the water. They are protected under the endangered species act and this small population needs as much protection as possible.

Projects like these may someday restore an apex predator to its rightful place the ecosystem. Reintroducing top predators of many species like the grey wolf have been a resounding success as they have proven to improve the health of the entire ecosystem effectively repopulating many other species as well. Bull trout have had a 50 year absence in the region and it is time.

These efforts may someday lead to the bull trout being removed from the endangered species list and they may once again become the prized trophy fish they once were.

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Summer Chinook in the Lewis River Wa.

The summer weather has been mild and the water levels in the Lewis River are still high, but the salmon action is starting to heat up. Out at the hatchery on the north fork in Woodland the action is heating up. On the west bank, eight nice Chinook were brought in using a bobber with jigs and spinners from 5:30 through 8:30 AM which is pretty good considering there were only about 20 people. There were four anglers drifting eggs on the west bank without success. The water levels are a contributing factor and in a couple of weeks things should start to get a little better.
WDFW officers were present but they were merely making their presence known. No citations were handed out as the anglers were not checked. Be sure that if you are using spinners it is a single hook zone no treble hooks. The #4 blue fox and small red jigs were very effective. The west bank offers more fish, but with that comes more competition as the seasoned combat fishermen jockey for position. The west bank offers a more peaceful atmosphere with a little elbow room perfect for drifting, it is pretty hard to drift when people are shoulder to shoulder. The locals are always friendly and are more than happy to offer advice so don’t be afraid to ask, after all they are the ones who know where the fish are. Get out on the river as the summer Chinook will soon pass through and you’ll have to wait till late September for things to heat up again.

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Check out Harper’s tackle on your way out to the hatchery. Unlike the fisherman’s depot, which has been the mainstay for years, it is very well stocked. It is nice to see some competition as they are both right next to each other which means they will both have to stay on top of their game. They are both right next to the gas station as you exit the freeway.

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1outdoorsman: Gifford Pinchot National Forest Camping with Elk

1outdoorsman: Gifford Pinchot National Forest Camping with Elk: "About one and a half hours north of Portland is Kalama Horse camp located in the Gifford Pinchot National forest. The site offers many trail..."

1outdoorsman: Salmon viewing at Lucia Falls Park in Yacolt Washi...

1outdoorsman: Salmon viewing at Lucia Falls Park in Yacolt Washi...: "Lucia Falls Park located in Yacolt Wa is a great place to watch Salmon as they try to get past one of their last few obstacles on a very lon..."

1outdoorsman: The End of the Line: global fish populations will ...

1outdoorsman: The End of the Line: global fish populations will ...: "A controversial book by Charles Clover, The End Of The Line, has raised concern over the impact of over fishing, claiming that without acti..."

1outdoorsman: Pack it out save a Trout

1outdoorsman: Pack it out save a Trout: "How many times have anglers stood at the shore and watched as aluminum cans and trash float down the river and ruin the shoreline and prim..."

1outdoorsman: Ice fishing in the Moses Lake region of Washington...

1outdoorsman: Ice fishing in the Moses Lake region of Washington...: "As the lakes freeze over in the Moses Lake region of Washington, many anglers store their boats until spring and instead load their childr..."

1outdoorsman: Trout Fishing Battle Ground Lake with power bait

1outdoorsman: Trout Fishing Battle Ground Lake with power bait: "Battle Ground Lake State Park is a hidden gem found just outside of downtown Battle Ground. Perfect for a day on the lake or a weekend in ..."

1outdoorsman: The Golden Hour

1outdoorsman: The Golden Hour: "It's true the early bird does in fact catch the worm, or the early angler catches the fish anyways. The true hardcore fisherman knows that a..."

The Golden Hour

It's true the early bird does in fact catch the worm, or the early angler catches the fish anyways. The true hardcore fisherman knows that a good day on the river or lake begins long before sunrise. The alarm clock wails at 4:00 AM and the rush is on. No time for breakfast, no shower, maybe if you didn't hit the old snooze a hot cup of coffee and a bagel. Throw on your waders and boots, get your fishing jacket on and hit the road. Hopefully the gear was packed the night before otherwise something is sure to be left behind. The lines should be set and ready to go, there's nothing worse than trying to set up a pole on the bank or in the boat. As soon as light hits the water your line should be in just behind it. It is for about an hour that the fish come to life as they begin to looking for an easy breakfast. Keep your line in the water and keep quiet, listen to the birds as they sing their morning songs. with a little skill and a lot of luck your fish is out there, go get 'em. As you are heading back to your car with the catch of the day the others will begin to roll up. Seeing your catch they'll be sure that this is their day. Its too late now the golden hour has passed, the fish have gone to rest. Maybe tomorrow is their day, but today is yours, you got up early and you passed the test.

Trout Fishing Battle Ground Lake with power bait

Battle Ground Lake State Park is a hidden gem found just outside of downtown Battle Ground. Perfect for a day on the lake or a weekend in the woods, this lake is a must see in southwest Washington. Stocked with pan-sized trout and the occasional steelhead, even a beginner has an excellent chance of taking home dinner.
The prime shore-fishing spot is straight off the dock as far as you can cast, however you are sure to be crowded in as fisherman tend to migrate toward the docks. The rocks across the lake are also a very good spot as there is less competition. From a boat or raft success can be found straight off the dock at the center of the lake.
From the shore or from the water, Berkeley power bait is excellent for attracting beautiful pan sized trout. Using a pea-sized amount of rainbow power bait with a few drops of stinky power bait scent is sure to get a few bites.

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Use 4 lb test, a ¼ ounce weight and a tiny treble hook, give about a four-foot leader from the weight to hook. Take a pea-sized amount of bait, roll bait onto hook while mixing in scent. Use just enough bait to completely cover your hook. Trout are very picky and will not bite at the first sign of trouble. Be sure to have a good knot as 4 lb. test breaks very easily.
From the shore cast out as far as possible and let the weight sink to the bottom, the bait will float about four feet from the bottom in clear view of any fish in the area. From your boat or raft simply drop your weight to the bottom. Then  wait and soak in the amazing scenery and wildlife, as water fowl, hawks and bald eagles are year-round visitors.

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Ice fishing in the Moses Lake region of Washington

As the lakes freeze over in the Moses Lake region of Washington, many anglers store their boats until spring and instead load their children’s snow sleds with all the gear they will need for a day on the frozen lake. Blue Heron Park, located about 5 miles outside of downtown Moses Lake, is an excellent place to have a day on a frozen lake. With thick ice, now is the time to safely enjoy the lake during the winter.
There are a few extra pieces of equipment needed for ice fishing which can be easily obtained by as well as a few luxury items that can be a huge help. Warm winter clothing is critical to a pleasant experience; A coat, a pair of gloves, shoes, boots and sunglasses can be the difference between a bitter cold experience and a nice day on the lake. Be sure to dress accordingly. A small plastic snow sled with a small rope attached can be very convenient for transporting tackle, equipment, chairs, food & refreshments etc.
Walleye, bass, perch, crappie, blue gill, bullhead & channel cats can all be found in Moses Lake region. Be sure to bring a variety of baits & tackle, jigs, minnows,  worms and power bait. A fisherman never knows what will be biting under the ice.
A light to medium action rod with 6-8 lb test will handle any fish in the area. The only real piece of specialty equipment needed is a hand ice auger which can easily be found at sporting goods stores. A large soup ladle from the kitchen is useful for skimming ice from the top of your hole without using hands.
When preparing to fish, your pole should be rigged and ready to fish before a hole is drilled. It is common that the first drop into an ice hole is the best chance for a bite, be ready to fish as soon as the hole is done. The light entering from the hole makes fish suspicious and often anglers only get one chance at them. If there has been no action in fifteen minutes move on to a new area and drill another hole. Have patience and remember that most fish bite at dawn and at dusk.
Ice fishing can be a lot of work but preparation is the key to a successful expedition onto the ice.

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Pack it out save a Trout

How many times have anglers stood at the shore and watched as aluminum cans and trash float down the river and ruin the shoreline and prime fish habitat? Every fisherman has a responsibility to protect the rivers and streams they enjoy. Fishing involves a lot of down time, taking advantage of that time to pick up trash is a great way to clean up the environment and help sustain fish populations for future generations.
Soda Lake located near the Potholes Reservoir in the pristine environment of the Columbia Wildlife Refuge is an ideal location for fishing and hunting. A winter trip to the lake might leave an angler wondering how the lake came to be known as Soda Lake. The hundreds of bottles and cans frozen to the shoreline seem to provide an answer but they are a recent addition. Hundreds of careless visitors have left litter behind and countless more have seen the debris and left it behind

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The End of the Line: global fish populations will soon be gone.

A controversial book by Charles Clover, The End Of The Line, has raised concern over the impact of over fishing, claiming that without action global fish populations will be depleted by the year 2048 (Dean, 1). His work has inspired a film documentary by the same title released June, 12th, 2010. Most fisheries worldwide use unsustainable and destructive methods to harvest in order to provide global markets with valuable fish. With billions of dollars at stake, fisherman around the world race to fill their nets with what little remains. In recent years, fishing in the oceans of the coast of Alaska has been closely monitored and managed to produce a sustainable harvest for years to come. The rest of the world could use Alaska as a model to recover and conserve fish populations for future generations. Many people depend on and believe that farmed fish will be the future of the seafood market, yet others feel that farmed fish are not sustainable as they too rely on ocean caught fish. Many third world countries depend on fishing, both a means of survival, and as a vital part of the economy. Scientist believe that global fish populations can be saved by using simple but effective measures: enforce strict quotas in areas of depleted populations, provide protected areas for populations to spawn and repopulate, use only sustainable methods that will not destroy habitat, decrease pollution in areas which effect reproduction, enact bans on fishing for species which have reached a critical point, minimize the catch of unwanted species as they are critical for biodiversity throughout the world’s oceans. I am moved by this issue I am a fisherman and I have seen in my short lifetime the impacts on our oceans and rivers. Where once I could catch fish and feel good about eating them, there are now signs warning of poisoned fish. If the world does not take measures now we may see the collapse of all global fish populations within our lifetime.

            The global fishing industry is worth billions, and now more than ever fisherman are devastating fish populations.  The blue fin tuna fisheries in Japan, and the cod fisheries off the coast of Canada in Newfoundland are examples of what may happen in the near future to many Fish populations. Blue fin tuna are at the frontline of the current crisis as they are nearing the end and may have already reached the point of no return. The pride of the sport and commercial fishing for generations the blue fin have been fighting a losing battle and may have finally lost the ability to reproduce. According to Johann Hari, columnist for the London Independent, referring to the blue fin tuna situation, “A third of the remaining population is ripped from the seas and slapped onto our plates, soon it will be gone” (Hari, 1). Large corporations like Mitsubishi have foreseen the collapse of the blue fin and have frozen and stockpiled many tons of fish in anticipation of the rise in cost as the populations collapse (McCready, 1). This type of attitude cannot be tolerated if we are to sustain populations. Many influential people are urging governments to use the United Nations to enact a ban on blue fin tuna fishing as a means to save the few remaining. It is believed that the blue fin tuna collapsed in 2007 as there were no mature spawners left. In the Canadian waters off the coast of Newfoundland fisheries have devastated the cod population. The former capital of the world’s cod industry many believed it was, “a fishing town where the scaly creatures of the sea were so abundant they could be caught with their hands” (Hari, 1). However, in the 1980’s populations dramatically decreased, fish even began to become smaller, and by 1991, they were gone. The government enacted a ban under the assumption that protecting the remaining cod would allow them to repopulate. Yet, 15 years later they still have not recovered. The population is destroyed and will never recover. (Hari, 1).

            In the famous fishing town of Gloucester the last large fish processing operation is Gorton's of Gloucester established in 1949 (Clover, 11). One might expect that the fish coming in and out in the large processing facility may have been Atlantic cod coming from the local fisheries that made the town famous when in fact, they are Alaskan Pollock or Russian Pollock processed in China. The fish are then shipped thousands of miles to the final processing facility in Gloucester. They also use farmed shrimp from South America and Asia as well as other species from around the world. With the collapse of New England's great fisheries Gorton's has been outsourcing from foreign countries in order to keep up with demand since the 1980's. "Americans now eat more foreign fish than fish produced at home" (10)

            Stories of fisheries collapsing are played out all over the world. In England fishing off Dogger Bank sustained the town of Lowestoft for over 600 years as a prosperous fishing community the most prominent in the entire North Sea. The largest company in Lowestoft, Colne Shipping had to tie up its fleet for the last time in 2002 as fuel prices began to rise and fish numbers continued to fall. After fifty eight years they had to shut down as a result of using unsustainable fishing practices. There are still a few small boats that go out and catch what little remains, but these days the town’s economy depends on tourist activity rather than fish. Charles clover describes the mood of the town, “The terrible sadness that seeps out of the place is reminiscent of a mining town where the coal ran out" (98). There is a government laboratory built in Lowestoft in order to ensure a plentiful stock to remain in the North Sea. They have a $43 million dollar research vessel named the Endeavor monitoring a sea which has two thirds of its fish species are close to the point of no return (99). In response to the depletion of fish in the North Sea the E.U. has created large refuge areas of open ocean which has helped to create a small recovery of local species. It is a slow process but people are starting to take notice and better care of our oceans (331).

            Measures taken in Alaska are an example of what can be done to ensure a sustainable harvest for future generations. Strict quotas are enforced vigorously as to never take too many fish in a given season. Scientific research and observation have been critical to conservation of populations of fish in Alaskan waters. Understanding the importance of conservation as opposed to preservation, in terms of the local economy, fish and game officials encourage responsible fishing methods. Areas considered critical spawning grounds are off limits so that fish can reproduce without interference. The allotted time fishermen are allowed to fish is strictly enforced as over fishing can decimate populations. The attitudes of sport fishermen are beginning to shift as well. Many practice catch and release, a way of conserving fish for other anglers and future generations. Others only keep fish which are considered to be in no danger and can be harvested using sustainable methods. Sport fisherman however, are not the major problem and have relatively low impact on populations. Like many other types of endangered species such as rhinos or tigers fish populations must be protected (Hari, 1).

The failure of governments around the world to enforce quotas and create protected areas has taken its toll. Large commercial fishing operations can decimate populations to as little as ten percent of its former size in as little as 15 years. Large European and American fishing boats have moved on to other areas such as Africa to find fish. Small communities, who depend on their daily catch for survival, are forced to compete with large companies from all around the world who have already destroyed their own fishing grounds. There is a question of morality in that the major world powers are taking fish from poor people in third world countries. These issues are illustrated by Charles clover as he documented his trip to Dakar in Senegal West Africa. He describes an immaculate new 149 ton Spanish fishing trawler docked in a harbor surrounded by small, rusted, old beat up local Senegalese trawlers, most of which are remnants from the 1970's north sea's fisheries. Invited to join the Spanish trawler on a trip out to see he noted that there was a small canoe with an eleven man crew pulling in a net with nothing in it as the massive trawler went passed (42). The European Union has made agreements with many West African countries in order to allow European fishing companies to fish there waters. The seafood served throughout Europe that many believe is taken from the Mediterranean is actually taken off the coast of countries such as Angola which are under the constant threat of starvation. The continental shelf off the Coast of West Africa creates some of the most abundant fish stocks in the world including over 1200 species. There are little to no Regulations on fishing in these waters, giant trawlers from other countries that have already destroyed their own local fish populations come along and take everything in their path leaving little for the poor local people that depend on the fish for survival. Namibia took the first step in reversing the trend of European trawlers entering their Waters. After gaining Independence in 1990 they ended their fishing agreement with the E.U., a few Spanish trawlers persisted and in 1992 they used helicopters to track down and arrest the captains and seize the ships. This was a direct result of overfishing of Hake populations. Scientist found that there were only juvenile fish remaining, no adult spawners putting the species at the point of collapse (50). Senegal too needs to take action as stated by Clover "The consensus is that Senegal has five years before its fisheries will collapse" (52). Using examples like these Clover is convincing in his argument that global fish populations are being over fished and that we are reaching a critical point.

A panel of scientist from around the world has found that 29 percent of global species have been reduced to only ten percent of the size they were 50 years ago. At the current rate of depletion, Scientists have estimated that all fish populations will be gone in the next 50 years (Dean, 1). Many believe that farmed fish may be the future of the seafood industry and that there will always be a source of fish. Unfortunately farmed fish depend on ocean caught fish. In fact, it takes five pounds of ocean fish to produce one pound of farmed fish (McCready, 2). With a ratio like this it is evident that farmed fish are part of the problem and not the solution. Farmed fish lack genetic diversity and are more susceptible to disease which can spread into the wild populations. As a result, antibiotics are often used which can be transferred on to the consumer as well as wild ocean fish. Humans face other health issues in the future as well; recent reports have found that tuna such as yellow fin have amounts of mercury found to be unacceptable by the F.D.A. as a result of pollution (Clover, 200). Heavy metal pollution is raising concerns for the safety of ocean caught fish something even I have become aware of as a sport fisherman.

Growing up in southern California we didn't have a lot of options in terms of places to fish either, manmade lakes of concrete with a few stocked fish, or a trip to one of many piers along the coast. The piers were always packed with fisherman bringing in small sharks, sting rays, mackerel, sea bass, and even the occasional bonito. We would always bring home enough for a good meal and would usually give fish to some of the other people there for showing us how to catch them. It was great fishing and we always had a good time. As time passed there seemed to be less fish and less people trying to catch them. It became rare to catch fish to take home; eventually we reached a point where we took no fish. Fish and Wild Life officials posted signs warning of lead and mercury poisoning as a result of contaminated waters. Whenever a storm comes signs are posted to stay out of the water due to sewage contamination as well as runoff from the powerful man made concrete rivers that run throughout the busy overcrowded cities in southern California. I used to wonder how much Smog would dissolve into the waters as I noticed that most of the time I could barely see Catalina Island which was just a few miles off the coast of Orange County. At night you can see dozens of oil platforms all along the coast glowing and dominating the landscape. My parents tell me of a time the waters along the coast were crystal clear. In southern California I have never seen anything but dirty green water, the same waters I learned to surf in, and the same waters I learned to fish. I have witnessed in my lifetime a change and I have been directly impacted by these issues. I would like to save fish for future generations in fact; I would even like to become an old man fly fishing in a stream someday with my grandchildren that is of course if there are any fish left.

It’s not too late, if measures are taken now to reduce over fishing and environmental abuse; we can save the global fish population for future generations. As can be seen in Alaska, responsible government management of fisheries can have a profound impact. Through the enforcement of strict quotas, the monitoring of fisherman as well protection of critical habitats Alaska has retained a healthy population. More than anything, popular opinion will be the deciding factor in the current crisis of declining populations. By consuming only sustainable harvest, using catch and release, and simply caring for your environment through recycling buying green products; everyone can make a difference in the fight to save global fish populations.

Clover, Charles. The End Of The Line How overfishing is changing the world and what we eat.

Salmon viewing at Lucia Falls Park in Yacolt Washington

Lucia Falls Park located in Yacolt Wa is a great place to watch Salmon as they try to get past one of their last few obstacles on a very long journey from the ocean. The salmon seem to be at the falls year round but there are more in spring and early fall as the salmon runs heat up. There are trails that lead to some amazing rock formations that have been carved out by the East Fork of the Lewis River. The falls offer some vital habitat for the salmon that need the protected habitat for spawning and breeding. There is no fishing or swimming for a small stretch that begins just before the falls and about 200 hundred yards past the falls signs are clearly posted. Bring your camera and try to catch a shot as the fish leap from the water have patience as it's harder than it looks to get a good shot. In June there were a good number of salmon still trying to get passed the falls so there is a good chance of seeing a few. Aside from the wild life there is also some great short trails with some awesome vegitation some of which is labeled. about a 45 minute scenic drive outside of Vancouver Wa. it is a great place to spend a beautiful summer day enjoy.

Gifford Pinchot National Forest Camping with Elk

About one and a half hours north of Portland is Kalama Horse camp located in the Gifford Pinchot National forest. The site offers many trails through the pristine old growth cedar forest that make the trip well worth it. Elk are in abundance in the area as you can hear their calls every morning as they circle the campgrounds. There are owl spotting opportunities as well as they patrol the area along with many other birding opportunities. The Lewis River offers amazing fly fishing for native trout. Keep in mind that in the Gifford Pinchot Forest it is catch and release only and you may only use single barbless hooks with no bait so don't plan on catching dinner. It is also Bull Trout country so beware as they are protected, do not target fish them and if you get one on your line do not remove them from the water. Bull trout need all the help they can get so please be gentle with them as someday maybe our children will again be ble to take some prize Dolly's from the river. The rivers are heavily patrolled by Fish & Game officers who are dedicated to protecting the local fish populations. The Forest surrounding St Helens are a precious resource that must be protected please be gentle stay on the trails and remember to pack it out and leave no trace.

Still fish to be caught at Horsehoe lake in Woodland

Recently stocked, Horseshoe Lake in Woodland is still a hot spot for some pan trout and even a few browns that are gorgeous. There are six osprey that have moved into the area and they have been taking many fish. There are at least two fully mature Osprey and four juveniles. There was also a bald eagle that had no problem catching a rainbow on its first dive. There are also a few Killdeer that have been foraging on the shore along with the usual suspects such as Robins, Starlings, and Swallows. I also spotted an American Goldfinch by the private docks in the center of the lake. Even if you have a hard time bringing home dinner you can still see an amazing bird show while you enjoy the carnival during Planter Days from June 16th to the 19th. Come down and enjoy the good weather this weekend before the sun starts blazing this summer.

Salmon season set to begin May 16th on the Columbia River

Will this be the season of a lifetime?
Probably not but it should be pretty good this year. The water levels are low in the reservoirs now but they will soon fill up and the water level in the river will be at the mercy of the snow melt. It lookslike its gonna be pretty mild this summer so we'll see how the catch turns out.