Anglers have been successfully catching fish in the Sandy since before Christmas day. Winter steelhead can now be found throughout the Sandy River, though they are still largely in the lower river. Anglers have been catching a steady number of fish, when conditions allow. Current high water and poor visibility may limit opportunities. Anglers would do best to check river levels before heading to the river. Fresh fish should be entering the system with each passing rain event for the next several months. 

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.