Low numbers of coho continue to trickle through Sandy hatchery. These fish are very colored up and largely not being targeted at this point in the season. That’s said, fishing pressure is light on the river. A few early winter steelhead have been caught, but it is still early for the season and more rain is welcomed. 

There are still plenty of Chinook in the system, but anglers should do their best not to harass them as they are likely wild fish on their way to spawning beds. Summer steelhead can still be found throughout the system. Anglers would do best to check river levels before heading to the river. 

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.