Many public access points along the river are still closed from recent wildfires, including Fisherman’s Bend, and all recreation areas along the Little North Fork. But Packsaddle Park has recently re-opened, which is just below Minto Dam. Anglers can still access the river from Stayton downstream and in a few places above such as the Mehama bridge and North Santiam State Park.

No recent fishing reports. River levels best for fishing are at or below 3,000 cfs, and the river is currently running at 3,080 cfs at the gauge in Mehama. Water clarity is good as well.

Fishing for hatchery steelhead is open year-round. Last year’s disappointing run is over and done, but the first few hundred new arrivals have been counted at Willamette Falls, including a few that have made it to Stayton. It will take another few weeks before they can reliably be targeted in the North Santiam. Same goes for spring chinook. Trout season will start back up again on May 22.

Any unclipped (wild) steelhead that are caught must be released unharmed. Anglers should be aware that bait is no longer allowed after Oct. 31 and until April 22.