With the predicated increase in flows on the Umatilla River this week from predicated rains and increased temperatures look for the fishing to pick up once the flows are on the drop. Most anglers are concentrating their efforts near Pendleton, however 140 new fish have pushed into the system with the increased flows as March is typically the month where the most fish return.

Most anglers have been finding success with a boober and jig set up, using corkies or a bead set up. Fly anglers are using sinking tips with larger winter marabou or rabbit flies in slower water. Anglers should handle wild fish with care this time of year as they are beginning to spawn, playing the fish as quickly as possible, as well as releasing, while keeping the fish in the water to remove the hook.

To date there have been 1,595 steelhead counted at Three Mile Falls Dam, with 455 being hatchery, 985 being wild and a total of 1,428 fish released above the TMFD.